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Published: March 6, 2024 at 4:10:46 PM Modified: March 12, 2024 at 3:04:46 PM Putin and Felix Tschisekedi shaking hands during the Russia-Africa summit On March 6, 2024, the Russian government approved a draft military cooperation agreement with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), as reported by various news outlets, including La Libre. This development has sparked interest in the international community as it highlights the growing ties between the two countries. The agreement aims to strengthen military cooperation between Russia and the DRC, with a focus on joint training, military education, and defense industry collaboration. The project is seen as an important step in enhancing regional security and stability in the African continent. This move comes at a time when Russia is actively seeking to expand its influence in Africa. In recent years, Moscow has been strengthening its ties with various African nations, including the DRC, through trade, investment, and military cooperation. The military cooperation agreement project is also a reflection of the growing importance of the African continent in global geopolitics. As the DRC is one of the largest and most resource-rich countries in Africa, the agreement could have significant implications for the region's security and economic development. While the details of the agreement have not been made public, it is expected to be finalized in the coming months. The approval of the draft agreement by the Russian government marks a significant step forward in the relationship between the two countries and could pave the way for further cooperation in the future. Tags ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

Published: May 8, 2024 at 5:42:12 AM Modified: May 8, 2024 at 5:49:42 AM 2023 Innovation Africa in Lusaka Zambia The African Development Bank, in collaboration with the National Institute of Statistics Rwanda, is set to host the Second Edition of the Innovate Africa Symposium from October 2-4, 2024 in Kigali, Rwanda. This year's theme focuses on "Strengthening Data Governance in the African Data Ecosystem," aiming to spotlight the critical role of robust data governance frameworks in utilizing data for socio-economic growth in the digital era. The event promises a rich agenda with plenary and panel discussions along with parallel sessions that delve into different dimensions of data governance such as Innovation & Strategy, Platforms & Process, and Case Studies & Technology Demos. Leaders from government, civil society, the private sector, academia, and international organizations will come together to discuss ways to enhance transparency, efficiency, and innovation through effective data governance. Interested participants are invited to submit presentation proposals that may cover a range of topics including data catalog and lineage, data quality management, privacy, compliance, data protection, and more. The symposium offers a unique platform for networking, learning, and collaborative innovation, encouraging submissions from those affiliated with national agencies, academia, international organizations, and the private sector. Presentation proposals can be submitted online, and selected presenters may be eligible for sponsorship to participate in the symposium. This event represents a significant opportunity for anyone involved in data governance to share experiences , tools, and strategies, and to contribute to advancing data governance across Africa. Tags ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

Wizkid sparked controversy after claiming he is bigger than Fela Kuti amid an online dispute with Seun Kuti. Entertainment Wizkid Says He Is Bigger Than Fela Amid Clash With Seun Kuti Wizkid sparked controversy after claiming he is bigger than Fela Kuti amid an online dispute with Seun Kuti. Published: January 21, 2026 at 11:44:24 AM Modified: January 21, 2026 at 11:44:24 AM Written By | Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Nigerian Grammy Award-winning singer Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun , popularly known as Wizkid, has claimed he is bigger than Afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo-Kuti amid an ongoing public dispute with Fela’s son, Seun Kuti. Wizkid made the remarks on Tuesday through a series of posts shared on his Instagram Stories, where he mocked Seun Kuti and asserted that he had surpassed Fela in status. The comments were part of a broader online exchange between the two musicians that has drawn widespread attention on social media. The singer later extended his comments to X, formerly Twitter, where he criticised Seun Kuti and contrasted his actions with those of his late father, describing Fela as someone who fought for freedom during his lifetime. The exchange followed Seun Kuti’s recent criticism of comparisons between Wizkid and his father. Speaking during an Instagram livestream, Seun warned Wizkid’s fanbase, known as Wizkid FC, against portraying the singer as a modern-day Fela. Seun described such comparisons as disrespectful and rooted in ignorance, arguing that Fela’s legacy should not be used in online fan rivalries. He further accused some fans of lacking respect and contributing to divisions within the Nigerian music industry. According to Seun, excessive online rivalries have discouraged collaboration among artists and damaged the industry’s creative environment. He urged fans to focus on appreciating music without constant comparisons between artists of different generations. The public exchange has continued to trend across social media platforms, reflecting broader debates about legacy, influence, and fan culture in Nigerian music. Source: Tribune Online Tags Entertainment Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigeria Nigeria ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading Hollywood Updates Melania Documentary Exceeds Box Office Forecasts Despite Criticism Amazon-backed film opens above expectations as critics pan and audiences respond positively . Entertainment Keke Palmer Shares Views on Relationships and Living Arrangements Actress says she values personal space and prefers separate living spaces . Entertainment Davido Reacts to 2026 Grammy Loss, Thanks Wife Chioma Singer says Chioma’s words helped him remain gracious after losing Best African Music award . Entertainment Trump Criticises Grammys, Considers Legal Action Against Trevor Noah Former US president disputes comments made during awards ceremony and denies Epstein links .

President Cyril Ramaphosa Published: June 5, 2024 at 3:14:35 PM Modified: June 16, 2024 at 5:08:18 AM The African National Congress (ANC) is considering forming a government of national unity after losing its governing majority in last week's election. Despite running South Africa since Nelson Mandela's 1994 victory, the ANC was penalized by voters for persistent poverty, joblessness, crime, corruption, and power cuts. Spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri announced on Wednesday that the ANC, still the largest party but unable to govern alone, is in talks with five other parties, including the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF). The party’s National Executive Committee will discuss the options on Thursday. "The conversation is leaning towards a government of national unity because this is what the people of South Africa have indicated," Bhengu-Motsiri said, aiming to unite various societal sectors behind the new government. She added that President Cyril Ramaphosa will remain in his position, dismissing any demands for his removal as a condition for coalition talks. The ANC secured 159 seats out of 400 in the new National Assembly, while the DA won 87 seats, and the EFF 39. Jacob Zuma's uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party secured a surprising 58 seats, while the Inkatha Freedom Party and the Patriotic Alliance won 17 and nine seats, respectively. The business sector favors a coalition between the ANC and the pro-business DA, which opposes some of the ANC's Black empowerment policies. In contrast, the EFF's radical proposals, including nationalizing mines and redistributing land, are viewed negatively by investors. The rand fell more than 1% against the dollar during Bhengu-Motsiri's announcement. Despite approaching Zuma's MK party, the ANC was rebuffed. Bhengu-Motsiri stated, "Our door remains open." Zuma, a strong opponent of Ramaphosa, remains influential in KwaZulu-Natal, where additional police have been deployed to maintain public order. Tags ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

Published: March 18, 2024 at 2:47:19 AM Modified: March 18, 2024 at 2:49:52 AM Niger cut military ties with America, asked them to leave the country and close military bases immediately In a surprising move, the government of Niger has decided to end its military cooperation with the United States and has asked American troops to leave the country immediately. This decision comes after a series of discussions between the two countries, where Niger expressed its concerns about the presence of foreign military forces on its territory. According to a statement released by the Nigerien government , the decision was made in the interest of national sovereignty and the country's commitment to non-alignment. The statement also emphasized that Niger is open to maintaining friendly relations with all nations but will not allow foreign military bases on its soil. The United States has maintained a military presence in Niger since 2013, with a drone base in Agadez and approximately 800 American troops stationed in the country. These troops have been involved in training local forces and conducting counterterrorism operations against extremist groups in the region. The decision to end military cooperation with the United States has been met with mixed reactions. Some Nigeriens have expressed their support for the move, citing concerns about foreign interference in the country's internal affairs. Others have expressed worries about the potential impact on security, as the U.S. presence has been seen as a deterrent to extremist groups. The U.S. government has not yet issued an official response to Niger's decision. However, it is expected that the U.S. will work with Niger to ensure a smooth and orderly withdrawal of its troops and equipment. This decision by Niger comes at a time of increased scrutiny of the presence of foreign military forces in Africa. Many African nations are reevaluating their relationships with foreign powers and seeking to assert greater control over their security and sovereignty Tags ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

Published: April 27, 2024 at 11:52:06 AM Modified: April 27, 2024 at 6:06:27 PM United Bank for Africa (UBA) in Uganda In a significant move within the East African banking sector, the Pan-African banking giant, United Bank for Africa (UBA), has notably increased its shareholdings in its Kenyan and Ugandan subsidiaries. This strategic decision highlights UBA's intensified efforts to strengthen its presence in a region dominated by Kenyan retail banks. Owned by Nigerian billionaire Tony Elumelu, UBA acquired an additional 13% in UBA Kenya Ltd and 11% in UBA Uganda Ltd during the year 2022. These acquisitions have elevated UBA Plc's ownership to 94% and 80% in the respective subsidiaries, marking a significant increase from the previous stakes of 81% in Kenya and 69% in Uganda. The detailed transactions were disclosed in the lender's latest annual report for 2023. The financial commitment towards these stake increases amounted to NGN 18.49 billion ($16.04 million). Specifically, UBA spent NGN 6.96 billion ($6.03 million) for the additional shares in Uganda, and NGN 11.52 billion ($9.99 million) for the Kenyan shares. Furthermore, in 2023, UBA injected an additional NGN 17.32 billion ($15.02 million) into these subsidiaries. This capital infusion included investments of NGN 5.14 billion ($4.45 million) in Kenya and NGN 12.17 billion ($10.55 million) in Uganda, aimed at bolstering their financial base and operational capabilities. This investment is part of UBA's broader strategy to capitalize on the East African Community (EAC) market, home to over 300 million people. UBA also operates subsidiaries in Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), indicating its robust footprint and commitment to the region. UBA's aggressive expansion in East Africa underscores its objective to enhance its market share and influence in the region's competitive banking sector. These strategic investments not only reflect UBA's long-term commitment to its East African operations but also demonstrate its confidence in the economic potential of the EAC market. Tags ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

Published: April 4, 2024 at 8:35:40 AM Modified: April 4, 2024 at 8:35:40 AM Kampala, Uganda - In a significant stride towards bolstering its mining sector, Uganda is poised to launch its inaugural tin processing plant next month, signaling a major leap in the nation's efforts to enhance its mineral value chain. This strategic move, aimed at augmenting domestic processing capabilities, aligns with President Yoweri Museveni's vision to maximize the East African country's export benefits. Expansion of Mineral Processing Capabilities Uganda, home to multiple gold refineries and a recent beneficiary of Chinese investment through Sunbird Resources' limestone mining for cement production, is now extending its processing repertoire to include tin, a valuable metal widely used in various industrial applications. Irene Bateebe, a senior official at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, confirmed the impending commissioning of the tin refining facility. "This marks the dawn of a new era in Uganda's mineral sector, as we unveil our very first tin processing plant," Woodcross Resources: At the Helm of Innovation The pioneering plant, owned by Woodcross Resources, a distinguished player in Uganda's mining and mineral trading arena, is set to refine tin with over 99% purity, a testament to the advanced technological capabilities being introduced in the region. Although the investment details remain undisclosed, the significance of this venture in enhancing Uganda's mineral value addition cannot be overstated. Woodcross Resources, with a robust presence in the sector, holds a tin mining license covering an expansive 40 square kilometers in Western Uganda. The facility's anticipated annual capacity exceeds 1,000 tonnes, positioning Uganda as a key player in the global tin market. A Future of Enhanced Value Addition This development not only represents a milestone in Uganda's mineral processing journey but also reinforces the country's commitment to adding value to its natural resources. As the nation prepares for this landmark event, the global mining community watches keenly, recognizing Uganda's emerging role in shaping the future of mineral processing in Africa. Tags ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

Nigerian singer Wizboyy unveils More Billionaires, blending afrofusion and highlife to promote shared growth and motivation. Wizboyy drops ‘More Billionaires’ motivational single Nigerian singer Wizboyy unveils More Billionaires, blending afrofusion and highlife to promote shared growth and motivation. Published: December 13, 2025 at 9:40:25 AM Modified: December 13, 2025 at 9:40:25 AM Written By | Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Nigerian musician Wiz Ofuasia, known professionally as Wizboyy, has released a new single titled More Billionaires , a motivational record focused on collective progress and shared success. The afrofusion track, infused with highlife elements, arrives as many Nigerians reflect on the economic realities of 2025 and begin setting goals for 2026. Wizboyy said the song was created to reinforce the importance of communal growth during a period of reassessment. According to the artist, More Billionaires draws from his personal journey and long-standing interest in stories of upward mobility. He explained that the song emphasizes winning together rather than individual achievement, a value he said aligns closely with Igbo cultural traditions. The single features rapper Zoro, who joined the project after Wizboyy developed the initial beat. Wizboyy said the collaboration came together quickly following Zoro’s contribution, with the track completed after several days of mixing and refinement. While upbeat in sound, the song carries themes of collaboration and mutual upliftment, ideas that often resonate during the festive season. Wizboyy added that the track is intended as a counterpoint to growing individualism, encouraging listeners to support one another in pursuit of success. Tags Entertainment Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigeria Nigeria ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading Hollywood Updates Melania Documentary Exceeds Box Office Forecasts Despite Criticism Amazon-backed film opens above expectations as critics pan and audiences respond positively . Entertainment Keke Palmer Shares Views on Relationships and Living Arrangements Actress says she values personal space and prefers separate living spaces . Entertainment Davido Reacts to 2026 Grammy Loss, Thanks Wife Chioma Singer says Chioma’s words helped him remain gracious after losing Best African Music award . Entertainment Trump Criticises Grammys, Considers Legal Action Against Trevor Noah Former US president disputes comments made during awards ceremony and denies Epstein links .

DRC questions a sudden FDLR media surge in M23-held areas, warning it serves Kigali’s narrative and risks derailing fragile peace efforts. Who Benefits from the FDLR’s Return to Headlines? DRC questions a sudden FDLR media surge in M23-held areas, warning it serves Kigali’s narrative and risks derailing fragile peace efforts. Published: November 13, 2025 at 4:43:34 PM Modified: November 13, 2025 at 4:43:34 PM Written By | Guerson Nabushi Nyonkourou Political Analyst Guerson Nabushi Nyonkourou Who Benefits from the FDLR’s New “Jeremiads”? Kinshasa Questions Kigali’s Motives.. Kinshasa — A flurry of videos and statements attributed to a faction calling itself FDLR-FOCA has resurfaced online since early October, just as President Félix Tshisekedi intensified diplomacy to end Rwanda’s decades-long aggression in eastern DR Congo. Kinshasa officials and regional analysts say the timing is no coincidence: reviving the FDLR spectre helps Kigali justify a continued military footprint on Congolese soil despite international pressure. A familiar pretext returns For years, Rwanda has framed its security posture in North and South Kivu as a response to the FDLR, a Hutu-led group born in the DRC in 2000. The latest clips, featuring mostly young men claiming the FDLR-FOCA banner and filmed in areas currently controlled by M23/RDF, declare they will not disarm without an “inter-Rwandan dialogue.” Congolese officials call the spectacle incongruous: if M23/RDF controls the terrain, how do purported FDLR camps operate freely and post videos without interference? If the FDLR was historically composed of ex-FAR elements from the 1990s, why do these new faces appear to be 17–30 rather than septuagenarians? The contradictions, Kinshasa argues, point to staging designed to derail diplomacy. The wider diplomatic backdrop The resurgence of FDLR talk comes as DR Congo pushes for implementation of UNSCR 2773, regional de-escalation, and a political track via Washington/Doha/AU channels. In parallel, Congolese forces have urged communities to cut all links with the FDLR, support voluntary disarmament and repatriation, and end the cycles of proxy warfare. Within this context, Congolese voices say the sudden FDLR-FOCA media blitz serves one audience: Kigali. By amplifying an FDLR threat narrative, Rwanda can argue for sustained deployments in the Kivus while peace tracks gain traction — a tactic critics say has repeatedly sabotaged ceasefire efforts. Claims and counter-claims inside the FDLR universe Sources close to veteran FDLR figure Gen. Pacifique Ntabwunguka (“Omega”) insist the political branch is not involved with the new FOCA messaging and continues to advocate an AU-mediated inter-Rwandan dialogue. They also note past demobilisations: in the early 2000s, some FDLR tactical units reportedly laid down arms and were integrated into Rwandan structures — a reminder that the FDLR is not a monolith, and that today’s “FDLR” label is frequently misused in information wars. The political wing’s position paper (March 2025) urged: A non-military pathway to resolve intra-Rwandan tensions; Safe, voluntary, supervised return for Rwandan refugees in DRC; Inclusive dialogue under African and international mediation. Whether one agrees with those demands or not, their stance contrasts with videos of youthful “FOCA” fighters posing in M23/RDF-held zones. Who gains from the noise? Kinshasa’s view is blunt: the louder the FDLR story, the easier it is to justify occupation and loot resources under the cover of “counter-insurgency.” Civil society researchers argue the fresh FOCA messaging: Normalises M23/RDF presence while talks proceed; Shifts headlines away from cross-border support to an ever-elastic FDLR threat; Raises doubts around the Doha/Luanda/Nairobi tracks at sensitive moments. Some analysts add that portraying a rejuvenated FDLR also internationalises Rwanda’s narrative before the UN Security Council and donor capitals — making it harder to sustain sanctions or a unified call for withdrawal. Context: what the FDLR is — and isn’t Founded in 2000, the FDLR emerged from earlier armed networks of Hutu refugees in Congo. Over time, the label has covered splinters, political and military wings, and defunct or rebranded units. Its size, cohesion, and activities have fluctuated with regional politics and Congolese operations. That fluidity makes the “FDLR threat” easy to inflate or conflate, particularly when new formations adopt old acronyms. Congolese authorities stress two points: Residual elements may exist, but do not justify the foreign occupation of two provinces. The peace track requires dealing with all armed actors through disarmament, reintegration, refugee solutions, and credible guarantees — not selective narratives that excuse proxy warfare. What Kinshasa wants next The DRC’s position remains consistent: Implement UNSCR 2773 and all regional communiqués fully and verifiably; Withdraw foreign forces and dismantle supply lines to proxies; Advance civilian protection, humanitarian access, and the return of displaced people; Pursue political solutions where appropriate, including safe returns for bona fide refugees; Ensure that natural-resource governance serves Congolese communities, not cross-border networks. Officials say the goal is not to “settle scores,” but to end the pretexts that have kept the Kivus in permanent crisis. Bottom line The sudden visibility of “FDLR-FOCA” videos in M23/RDF-held zones raises more questions than it answers. For Kinshasa, the episode underscores a familiar pattern: weaponising narratives to prolong a military status quo. As regional and international actors press for peace, the test is whether diplomacy can move faster than the propaganda, and whether the Great Lakes can finally pivot from pretexts to proof-based de-escalation. Tags Paul Kagame Paul Kagame FDLR Militias FDLR Militias DR.Congo DR.Congo Rwanda Rwanda ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading DRC Peace Effort FARDC Signals Sustained Offensive After Fizi Battles in South Kivu Army says 34 M23 fighters were killed in Fizi and 12 allied elements captured . Investment Deals DRC Signs $10B Trade Deal with UAE, Port & Mining Focus Congo’s $10B trade pact with the UAE marks a bold new era in African economic diplomacy. . War in DR Congo Rwanda‑Backed M23 Cries Foul as FARDC Moves to Liberate Minembwe FARDC operations intensify in South Kivu as the army moves to restore state authority in Minembwe. . War in DR Congo Ituri urges armed groups and youth to join P-DDRSC process Col. Emmanuel Libandi calls for disarmament, reintegration and youth engagement .

Register for SARS eFiling in 2025 with this easy step-by-step guide. Learn how to apply, fix errors, and access your tax profile online. Register for SARS eFiling in 2025 with this easy step-by-step guide. Learn how to apply, fix errors, and access your tax profile online. How to Register for SARS eFiling in 2025 – Step-by-Step Register for SARS eFiling in 2025 with this easy step-by-step guide. Learn how to apply, fix errors, and access your tax profile online. Published: June 26, 2025 at 8:29:02 PM Modified: October 4, 2025 at 6:54:53 PM Written By | Wilson Munezero Government Services & Opportunities Expert Wilson Munezero Want to file your taxes online in South Africa? SARS eFiling makes it easy to do your taxes from your phone or computer. This step-by-step guide will help you register, log in, and solve common issueswhether you’re a first-time taxpayer or a tax practitioner. Website: https://www.sarsefiling.co.za What is SARS eFiling? SARS eFiling is an online service by the South African Revenue Service. It lets individuals, companies, and tax practitioners submit tax returns, register for taxes, and manage their accounts, all without going to a SARS branch. Who Can Register? You can register for SARS eFiling if you are: A South African citizen with a valid ID A non-resident with a valid passport and tax number A company, trust, or tax practitioner Anyone with a South African tax reference number 🧾 What You Need Before You Start Make sure you have: A valid ID or passport A mobile number and email address Your SARS tax number (if already registered) Access to a smartphone or webcam for facial recognition Step-by-Step: Registering for SARS eFiling in 2025 1️⃣ Go to the SARS eFiling Website Visit www.sarsefiling.co.za and click “Register” . 2️⃣ Choose User Type Select one of the following: Individual Company/Trust/Partnership Tax Practitioner Organisation Representative 3️⃣ Enter ID or Passport Details Input your ID number (for South Africans) or passport number (for foreigners). ✅ Tip: Your details must match SARS records exactly. 4️⃣ Enter Contact Details Use a valid South African mobile number Enter an active email address 🟡 These must be unique and not used in another SARS profile. 5️⃣ Receive & Enter OTP You’ll receive a one-time PIN (OTP) via SMS and email. Enter the OTP to continue. 6️⃣ Set Username & Password Create your secure SARS eFiling login details . 7️⃣ Do Biometric Facial Recognition You’ll be asked to take a photo or scan your face This confirms your identity (must be clear and match Home Affairs records) 8️⃣ Register Your Tax Number (If Needed) If you don’t have a tax number yet, SARS may create one automatically after identity verification. 9️⃣ Finish & Log In Once complete, log in and access your eFiling dashboard. 🔁 Already Registered But Need to Log In? Go to www.sarsefiling.co.za Click “Log In” and enter: Your username Your password Forgot your details? Click “Forgot Username” or “Forgot Password” and follow prompts. 🛠 Common Registration Issues (and Fixes) Problem Fix "Mobile/email already in use" Use another contact or recover your old profile No OTP received Wait a few minutes or check your spam folder Facial scan not working Use better lighting or switch the device Tax number not linked Request a tax number or visit a SARS branch System error Try again later or call 0800 00 7277 📱 Using the SARS MobiApp? You can also register or log in using the SARS MobiApp (Android/iOS). Benefits: Easy OTP login Biometric sign-in (Face/Touch ID) File returns on your phone Need Help? 📞 SARS Contact Centre: 0800 00 7277 🌐 Website: www.sars.gov.za 📍 Branch visit: Booking required Final Tip Registering for SARS eFiling is free and easier than ever. Make sure your personal details match your ID, and use unique contact info to avoid errors. Tags SARS eFiling SARS eFiling South Africa Gov Services South Africa Gov Services South Africa South Africa ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading Economic Reports Temu “Shipping Confirmed” alerts spark consumer warning in SA Report flags promo-style notifications that can look like real delivery updates to users. . Road Accidents Durban R102 crash raises fresh road-safety concerns Truck–minibus collision near Lotus Park kills at least 11 as officials investigate . Geopolitics Africa Why Melania Trump isn’t screening in South Africa and why it matters A distributor’s late pull highlights how politics, perception and film rollout risks can collide . Business Profiles JDA boss Mathibe on bail as money-laundering case set for June Police say probe into procurement irregularities continues; further arrests not ruled out .

Twangiza Mining accuses M23 rebels of stealing $70M in gold from eastern Congo mine, raising pressure on Rwanda amid growing calls for international accountability Rwanda-Backed M23 Rebels Loot $70M in Gold from Congo Mine Twangiza Mining accuses M23 rebels of stealing $70M in gold from eastern Congo mine, raising pressure on Rwanda amid growing calls for international accountability Published: October 21, 2025 at 4:12:48 PM Modified: October 21, 2025 at 4:12:48 PM Written By | Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda KINSHASA — As instability deepens in eastern Congo, a shocking new revelation has surfaced: M23 rebels , widely documented as backed by Rwanda , have looted an estimated $70 million worth of gold from a Congolese mine since May 2025, according to a formal statement from Twangiza Mining. The gold, weighing over 500 kilograms, was allegedly extracted from the Twangiza concession in South Kivu, an area seized earlier this year during M23’s rapid territorial advance. The mine’s Chinese-Congolese operators told Reuters that the rebels, with help from insiders, smuggled out gold monthly, destroying infrastructure and cutting off communication with more than 150 trapped workers. Congo’s Wealth, Rwanda’s Proxy War? This latest looting scandal adds fuel to ongoing international accusations that Rwanda, under President Paul Kagame, is using the M23 rebel group to control and exploit the DRC’s mineral wealth, a claim repeatedly confirmed by U.N. experts , but consistently denied by Kigali. “The rebels expelled residents, destroyed churches, and brought in Rwandan technicians to restart extraction operations,” said Twangiza Mining, describing a systematic takeover of the concession. While M23 declined to comment, the Congolese government is expected to raise the issue at the next regional mediation round. Rwanda has yet to respond to this latest allegation, even as diplomatic pressure mounts following a failed August peace deadline. Beyond Armed Conflict: Economic Sabotage The scale of the theft is alarming. Twangiza Mining confirmed losses of: >100 kg of gold monthly since May $5 million in equipment and infrastructure Drone strikes (unclaimed) that crippled power generation at the site Complete communication loss with workers trapped inside the rebel-held zone International Arbitration, Accountability Incoming Twangiza Mining is preparing a formal international legal complaint, calling for: Arbitration proceedings Compensation for losses Sanctions against non-state actors financing or facilitating M23’s operations Their accusations align with prior U.N. Security Council findings that M23 collects $300,000/month in illicit taxes from Rubaya’s coltan fields, a vital supply chain node for the global tech industry. A Crisis of Silence and Denial The Kagame regime has repeatedly denied backing the M23, but evidence from U.N. panels, regional intelligence, and mining sector reports continues to paint a damning picture. The international community faces a choice: continue enabling silence, or act to safeguard Congo’s resources from transnational armed exploitation. Where Is the Peace? Attempts at mediation have stalled: A Trump-brokered peace deal in June offered temporary diplomatic relief Qatar-hosted talks missed the August deadline for a ceasefire On October 14, both sides agreed to a monitoring mechanism, but no disarmament or territorial withdrawal has occurred Meanwhile, hundreds of thousands remain displaced, and Congolese resources are systematically looted in broad daylight. Opnion "What’s happening in Twangiza is not just illegal, it’s the theft of Congo’s future. Each kilogram of gold stolen funds more chaos and undermines regional peace. The world must stop turning a blind eye. Tags M23 Rebels M23 Rebels DR.Congo DR.Congo ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading DRC Peace Effort FARDC Signals Sustained Offensive After Fizi Battles in South Kivu Army says 34 M23 fighters were killed in Fizi and 12 allied elements captured . Investment Deals DRC Signs $10B Trade Deal with UAE, Port & Mining Focus Congo’s $10B trade pact with the UAE marks a bold new era in African economic diplomacy. . War in DR Congo Rwanda‑Backed M23 Cries Foul as FARDC Moves to Liberate Minembwe FARDC operations intensify in South Kivu as the army moves to restore state authority in Minembwe. . War in DR Congo Ituri urges armed groups and youth to join P-DDRSC process Col. Emmanuel Libandi calls for disarmament, reintegration and youth engagement .

Published: April 26, 2024 at 6:36:37 PM Modified: April 26, 2024 at 6:38:17 PM Ibrahim Traore: From Battlefield to Leading Burkina Faso OUAGADOUGOU, Burkina Faso – Burkina Faso's government has suspended the radio broadcasts of BBC Africa and the U.S.-funded Voice of America (VOA) for two weeks. The suspension comes in response to their coverage of a Human Rights Watch report that accused the Burkinabe military of extrajudicial killings, including the deaths of at least 56 children in February. The report alleges these killings are part of a broader campaign against civilians suspected of aiding jihadist militants. The national communication council labeled the report as likely to incite public disorder due to its "peremptory and tendentious" statements against the military. In addition to the broadcast suspension, authorities have also blocked access within Burkina Faso to the websites of BBC, VOA, and Human Rights Watch. VOA Acting Director John Lippman emphasized the organization's commitment to accurate and balanced journalism and called on the Burkinabe government to reconsider its decision. This development has sparked international concern over press freedom and human rights in Burkina Faso. Tags ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading