Blessing CEO reveals cancer diagnosis, plans to auction wigs, car and property amid emotional videos shared online. Nigerian content creator Blessing Okoro , widely known as Blessing CEO, has drawn widespread attention after announcing that she plans to auction her wigs following a claimed cancer diagnosis. In videos shared on social media , the influencer appeared emotional as she spoke about her health, stating that she had been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. She did not provide additional medical details regarding the condition. Blessing CEO also posted footage showing her extensive wig collection, explaining that she intended to sell them after shaving her hair. In a separate video, she was seen having her head shaved by a barber. Beyond the wigs, she indicated that she may auction other personal assets, including a car and a building, as part of her response to the situation. The videos, which circulated widely online, showed the social media personality visibly distressed as she expressed fear about facing the illness. Her announcement has since generated reactions across social media, with many users commenting on the development and the emotional nature of the posts. Source: The Sun Nigeria Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Blessing CEO Announces Wig Auction After Cancer Claim By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Mar 26, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Nigerian content creator Blessing Okoro , widely known as Blessing CEO, has drawn widespread attention after announcing that she plans to auction her wigs following a claimed cancer diagnosis. In videos shared on social media , the influencer appeared emotional as she spoke about her health, stating that she had been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. She did not provide additional medical details regarding the condition. ADVERTISEMENT Blessing CEO also posted footage showing her extensive wig collection, explaining that she intended to sell them after shaving her hair. In a separate video, she was seen having her head shaved by a barber. Beyond the wigs, she indicated that she may auction other personal assets, including a car and a building, as part of her response to the situation. ADVERTISEMENT The videos, which circulated widely online, showed the social media personality visibly distressed as she expressed fear about facing the illness. Her announcement has since generated reactions across social media, with many users commenting on the development and the emotional nature of the posts. 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

Ronald Ngala Utalii College applications close 23 August 2026. See the KUCCPS link, courses, requirements and application steps. Applications for the first September intake at Ronald Ngala Utalii College in Kilifi County close today, Sunday, 23 August 2026 . The Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service opened the application system for KCSE holders seeking places in 13 hospitality and tourism programmes. Applicants must apply through the official KUCCPS Student’s Portal before the window closes. Deadline alert: Applications close on 23 August 2026 . KUCCPS has not published a specific closing hour in its announcement, so applicants should complete the process immediately and confirm that the application appears as active on the portal. Application details at a glance Can I still apply today? Yes, if the Ronald Ngala Utalii College application is still available in your KUCCPS account. August 23 is the official final application date. Sign in to the KUCCPS Student’s Portal , select an eligible Ronald Ngala Utalii College programme, pay through the instructions generated inside the portal and submit immediately. Do not stop after choosing a programme or making payment. Return to the dashboard and check that the submission is recorded as an Active Application . Save the payment confirmation and take a screenshot of the completed application. If the portal no longer accepts an application, check the official KUCCPS announcement and contact KUCCPS. Do not pay an agent who promises to submit after the official window has closed. What is Ronald Ngala Utalii College? Continue Reading Full Article STUDENTS GUIDE KUCCPS Ronald Ngala Utalii College: Apply by August 23 By Wilson Munezero Government Services & Opportunities Expert Wilson Munezero Home Comment Aug 23, 2026 Aug 23, 2026 16 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Applications for the first September intake at Ronald Ngala Utalii College in Kilifi County close today, Sunday, 23 August 2026 . The Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service opened the application system for KCSE holders seeking places in 13 hospitality and tourism programmes. Applicants must apply through the official KUCCPS Student’s Portal before the window closes. Deadline alert: Applications close on 23 August 2026 . KUCCPS has not published a specific closing hour in its announcement, so applicants should complete the process immediately and confirm that the application appears as active on the portal. Application details at a glance Item Official information College Ronald Ngala Utalii College Institution type New Kilifi-based campus of Kenya Utalii College Intake September 2026 Applications opened Monday, 10 August 2026 Closing date Sunday, 23 August 2026 Available programmes 13 hospitality and tourism programmes Target intake About 1,000 students Eligible group KCSE holders who meet programme requirements Application portal students.kuccps.net Location Vipingo, Kilifi County Can I still apply today? Yes, if the Ronald Ngala Utalii College application is still available in your KUCCPS account. August 23 is the official final application date. Sign in to the KUCCPS Student’s Portal , select an eligible Ronald Ngala Utalii College programme, pay through the instructions generated inside the portal and submit immediately. Do not stop after choosing a programme or making payment. Return to the dashboard and check that the submission is recorded as an Active Application . Save the payment confirmation and take a screenshot of the completed application. If the portal no longer accepts an application, check the official KUCCPS announcement and contact KUCCPS. Do not pay an agent who promises to submit after the official window has closed. What is Ronald Ngala Utalii College? Ronald Ngala Utalii College is a new campus of Kenya Utalii College located at Vipingo in Kilifi County. It was established to expand professional hospitality and tourism training, particularly for students in the Coast region and other parts of Kenya. KUCCPS says the institution plans to admit about 1,000 students for its pioneer September 2026 intake. The intake is expected to coincide with the official launch of the new campus. The college is part of Kenya Utalii College, which operates under the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife. Kenya Utalii College has trained hospitality and tourism professionals since 1975. Who can apply? The application is open to KCSE holders who satisfy the minimum entry requirements for their chosen diploma or certificate programme. You should: Have a valid KCSE examination record. Meet the mean-grade and subject requirements shown for the selected course. Apply for a programme listed under Ronald Ngala Utalii College on the KUCCPS portal. Enter accurate personal and examination information. Submit the application and required payment before the deadline. KUCCPS’s announcement refers generally to KCSE holders and does not restrict the opportunity to only the most recent examination cohort. The portal determines which programmes an applicant can select based on the examination record and applicable requirements. Meeting the minimum requirements allows you to apply but does not guarantee placement. KUCCPS will consider available capacity and the qualifications of applicants. Courses available at Ronald Ngala Utalii College KUCCPS says 13 hospitality and tourism programmes are available for the September 2026 intake. Its official Kenya Utalii College programme announcement identifies the following courses. ADVERTISEMENT Diploma programmes Diploma in Hospitality Management Diploma in Culinary Arts Diploma in Front Office Operations Diploma in Food and Beverage Management Diploma in Housekeeping and Laundry Management Diploma in Travel and Tourism Management Diploma in Tour Guiding and Administration Certificate programmes Certificate in Front Office Operations Certificate in Pastry and Bakery Certificate in Housekeeping and Laundry Operations Certificate in Food and Beverage Service and Sales Certificate in Travel and Tour Operations Certificate in Tour Guiding and Administration Programme names, codes, available places and minimum entry requirements should be confirmed inside the KUCCPS portal before submission. Select the Ronald Ngala Utalii College option rather than assuming that a similarly named course belongs to the new Kilifi campus. What you need before applying Prepare the following information: KCSE index number KCSE examination year KUCCPS portal password KCPE index number or birth-certificate number used for portal access Active telephone number Active email address Programme names and codes A payment method available through the official portal The portal normally uses the KCSE index number, examination year and password for sign-in. If the usual birth-certificate or KCPE details do not work, use the portal recovery option or request assistance from KUCCPS instead of opening unofficial links. How to apply through KUCCPS Step 1: Open the official KUCCPS Student’s Portal Go directly to https://students.kuccps.net/ . Confirm that the address belongs to kuccps.net before entering your information. Step 2: Log in Select Login and enter your: KCSE index number; KCSE examination year; and portal password. Follow the recovery instructions if you cannot access the account. Do not share your password or payment code with a cybercafé attendant or social-media account. Step 3: Find Ronald Ngala Utalii College Open the institutions or programmes section and search for Ronald Ngala Utalii College . The KUCCPS institution listing for the new campus uses institution code 5680 . Review the campus, course title, programme code, qualification level and minimum requirements carefully. Step 4: Choose programmes you qualify for Select your preferred hospitality or tourism programmes and arrange them in the required order of priority. Do not choose only by course name. Open each programme’s details and confirm that your KCSE grade and subjects satisfy the stated requirements. Step 5: Start the application Open Application/Revision and select Apply Now , or follow the current application button displayed for the September 2026 intake. Enter the correct programme codes. A wrong code may direct the application to a different course or institution. Step 6: Review the choices Check: institution name; campus; programme title; qualification level; programme code; and order of preference. Correct any mistake before proceeding to payment and final submission. Step 7: Pay through the portal instructions A non-refundable KUCCPS application fee of KSh 1,500 is reported for the application. Confirm the amount displayed in your account and follow only the payment instructions generated by the official portal. ADVERTISEMENT Do not send money to a personal telephone number, agent or unofficial website. Keep the transaction confirmation until placement is complete. Step 8: Submit the application Return to the application page after payment and complete the submission. Payment by itself does not necessarily complete the application. Step 9: Confirm the application is active Open the dashboard and look for Active Application or the equivalent confirmation. Save or print the programme choices and application record. If the payment was deducted but the application does not become active, do not pay again immediately. Check the transaction status and contact KUCCPS with the payment reference. How to check the programme requirements The official KUCCPS homepage directs applicants to the Student’s Portal to view available programmes and minimum requirements. After signing in: Open Programmes . Search for Ronald Ngala Utalii College. Select a programme. Read the minimum mean grade and subject requirements. Confirm that the portal allows you to add the programme code. Use the requirements displayed for this intake. Do not rely on a grade copied from an old poster because programme conditions can change. Is HELB funding available? KUCCPS says officers from the Higher Education Loans Board and the Tourism Fund will provide funding information and guidance during on-site support at the new campus. This does not mean a KUCCPS placement automatically becomes a HELB loan or grant. Admission, placement and student financing are separate processes. Successful applicants should wait for official instructions and apply through the correct HELB or government-financing channel when eligible. Do not pay anyone who promises guaranteed HELB approval. Where to get application help KUCCPS announced that its officers would provide on-site application support at Ronald Ngala Utalii College. Applicants may also seek assistance from KUCCPS offices or designated Huduma Centres. Official KUCCPS contacts include: Telephone: 020 5137400 Email: info@kuccps.ac.ke Website: www.kuccps.net Student portal: students.kuccps.net When requesting help, have your KCSE index number, examination year and payment reference available. Do not send passwords or one-time codes by email or social media. Common application mistakes Waiting until late on the closing date Applying through an unofficial website Searching for Kenya Utalii College without checking the Kilifi campus Entering the wrong programme code Ignoring the course’s subject requirements Paying before confirming the correct choices Assuming payment alone completes the application Failing to confirm an active application on the dashboard Sending money to an individual claiming to be a KUCCPS agent Losing the payment and submission confirmations What happens after the deadline? KUCCPS will process eligible applications for placement against the available spaces. Applicants should continue checking their portal accounts and official KUCCPS announcements for placement results or additional instructions. The agency has not promised a late application or extension for this intake. If you miss the deadline, contact KUCCPS and the college for official guidance. Do not assume that the system will reopen. 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 Students Guide KUCCPS Ronald Ngala Utalii College: Apply by August 23 . ADVERTISEMENT Frequently asked questions When is the Ronald Ngala Utalii College application deadline? Applications close on Sunday, 23 August 2026 . Which intake is open? The application is for the college’s pioneer September 2026 intake . How do I apply? Apply through the official KUCCPS Student’s Portal . Search for Ronald Ngala Utalii College, review the programmes, enter the correct codes, pay through the portal instructions and confirm that the application is active. How many courses are available? KUCCPS says 13 hospitality and tourism programmes are available: seven diplomas and six certificates. How many students will the college admit? The college is targeting about 1,000 students for its first intake. Where is Ronald Ngala Utalii College located? The new campus is at Vipingo in Kilifi County, Kenya. Can candidates from previous KCSE years apply? KUCCPS describes the opportunity as open to KCSE holders. Applicants should sign in to the portal to confirm whether their examination record is eligible for this intake and which programmes they qualify for. What is the KUCCPS application fee? The reported non-refundable fee is KSh 1,500 . Confirm the amount and payment instructions shown in your KUCCPS account before paying. Does placement guarantee HELB funding? No. Placement and funding are separate processes. HELB and the Tourism Fund are expected to provide guidance, but applicants must satisfy the applicable funding requirements. Can I apply after August 23? KUCCPS has not announced a late window. Use the portal before the deadline and rely only on a formal KUCCPS notice for any extension. Official sources and verification note This guide was prepared on 23 August 2026 using the following sources: KUCCPS September intake announcement KUCCPS August 2026 bulletin KUCCPS announcement listing the 13 Kenya Utalii programmes Official KUCCPS Student’s Portal Kenya Utalii College website Applicants should confirm live programme codes, minimum grades, payment instructions and application status inside the official portal. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Students Guide KUCCPS Ronald Ngala Utalii College: Apply by August 23 Ronald Ngala Utalii College applications close 23 August 2026. See the KUCCPS link, courses . Tags KUCCPS KUCCPS Kenya Gov Services Kenya Gov Services Kenya Kenya

Nigerian rapper CDQ says cabals and gangs influence success in the music industry, urging stakeholders to change the culture. CDQ has sparked fresh debate about the realities of Nigeria’s music industry after claiming that success often depends on who you know—and the groups you belong to. According to Daily Post , the rapper shared his thoughts during a recent conversation with content creator JBrandy , where he spoke candidly about what he sees as the hidden power structures shaping the industry. The Nowo Soke hitmaker argued that many artists face significant obstacles if they are not connected to influential circles. In his view, the music business has increasingly become a space where affiliation with certain groups, cliques, or powerful networks can determine who gets opportunities and support. CDQ suggested that artists who manage to break through without aligning themselves with these circles are fortunate. He described the industry as one where talent alone does not always guarantee progress, adding that some musicians invest heavily in their careers without seeing meaningful results because they lack the right connections. His comments shine a light on a long-running conversation within the Nigerian entertainment scene about access, gatekeeping, and industry politics. While the country continues to produce global stars and dominate African music charts, questions about who controls opportunities behind the scenes remain a recurring topic among artists and fans. The rapper also used the interview to call for change. He urged artists, record label executives, and other key players in the music business to move away from linking music success with gangster culture or group affiliations. As Nigeria’s music industry continues to grow on the global stage, CDQ’s remarks are likely to fuel further discussions about whether talent, hard work, and creativity are enough—or whether industry connections still play the biggest role in determining who rises to the top. Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT CDQ Says Music Industry Success Often Depends on Powerful Cliques By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Jun 4, 2026 Jun 4, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: CDQ has sparked fresh debate about the realities of Nigeria’s music industry after claiming that success often depends on who you know—and the groups you belong to. According to Daily Post , the rapper shared his thoughts during a recent conversation with content creator JBrandy , where he spoke candidly about what he sees as the hidden power structures shaping the industry. ADVERTISEMENT The Nowo Soke hitmaker argued that many artists face significant obstacles if they are not connected to influential circles. In his view, the music business has increasingly become a space where affiliation with certain groups, cliques, or powerful networks can determine who gets opportunities and support. CDQ suggested that artists who manage to break through without aligning themselves with these circles are fortunate. He described the industry as one where talent alone does not always guarantee progress, adding that some musicians invest heavily in their careers without seeing meaningful results because they lack the right connections. ADVERTISEMENT His comments shine a light on a long-running conversation within the Nigerian entertainment scene about access, gatekeeping, and industry politics. While the country continues to produce global stars and dominate African music charts, questions about who controls opportunities behind the scenes remain a recurring topic among artists and fans. The rapper also used the interview to call for change. He urged artists, record label executives, and other key players in the music business to move away from linking music success with gangster culture or group affiliations. 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 As Nigeria’s music industry continues to grow on the global stage, CDQ’s remarks are likely to fuel further discussions about whether talent, hard work, and creativity are enough—or whether industry connections still play the biggest role in determining who rises to the top. 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

UNISA’s digital-first system is failing: application delays, status check woes, lost student numbers & fee issues. Problems with uploads and tracking persist. Introduction: A Student in Limbo “I applied last August and uploaded all my documents through the UNISA application tool. My status still says pending, and the semester is about to start,” said Thandi, a prospective law student in KwaZulu‑Natal. Like thousands of applicants, Thandi dutifully logged into her myUnisa account, paid her application fee, and submitted documents online. Months later, she still checks the UNISA status check portal daily, only to see the same message. UNISA brands itself as a digital‑first institution, yet its online systems are plagued by outages, glitches, and opaque processes that leave students anxious and confused. This investigative blog unpacks UNISA’s broken digital promise: from system crashes that prevent students from uploading documents to chaotic student number recovery, unexplained application fees, and a labyrinthine admissions process. Each section addresses trending queries such as “Unisa upload documents login,” “Unisa student number recovery,” “Unisa application fee banking details,” and “Unisa status check.” Broken Digital Promise: Crashes, Upload Errors, and Connectivity Gaps UNISA boasts of being Africa’s largest open‑distance learning university and insists that applications are online only. Yet students constantly face inaccessible websites and error messages. Official announcements tell part of the story: In July 2025, UNISA confirmed that its myModules learning management system suffered a 3.5‑hour outage; the ICT team apologised and noted that the system was again fully available. A few months earlier, in April 2025, UNISA admitted that myModules was experiencing instability following maintenance and that its ICT team was working to resolve the issue. On 19 June 2024, the university issued another alert: intermittent “data‑root permission” errors were preventing students from opening/uploading PDF files and even uploading profile pictures. Urgent maintenance was scheduled Problems are not new. In November 2017, the university apologised because postgraduate students couldn’t upload their application documents; the issue was later fixed . Earlier that year, UNISA warned that myUnisa and the application system could be intermittently unavailable due to technical problems and urged students encountering errors to restart their browsers . These technical failures undermine the university’s digital ambitions. Students share strategies to cope: third‑year student Primrose Tau told IOL that system crashes frequently occur near assignment deadlines, so it’s wise to convert assignments to PDF and submit early. Continue Reading Full Article APPLICATION PORTAL Inside UNISA’s Online Chaos: Application Delays & Student Struggles By Wilson Munezero Government Services & Opportunities Expert Wilson Munezero Home Comment Aug 21, 2025 May 15, 2026 12 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Introduction: A Student in Limbo “I applied last August and uploaded all my documents through the UNISA application tool. My status still says pending, and the semester is about to start,” said Thandi, a prospective law student in KwaZulu‑Natal. Like thousands of applicants, Thandi dutifully logged into her myUnisa account, paid her application fee, and submitted documents online. Months later, she still checks the UNISA status check portal daily, only to see the same message. UNISA brands itself as a digital‑first institution, yet its online systems are plagued by outages, glitches, and opaque processes that leave students anxious and confused. This investigative blog unpacks UNISA’s broken digital promise: from system crashes that prevent students from uploading documents to chaotic student number recovery, unexplained application fees, and a labyrinthine admissions process. Each section addresses trending queries such as “Unisa upload documents login,” “Unisa student number recovery,” “Unisa application fee banking details,” and “Unisa status check.” Broken Digital Promise: Crashes, Upload Errors, and Connectivity Gaps UNISA boasts of being Africa’s largest open‑distance learning university and insists that applications are online only. Yet students constantly face inaccessible websites and error messages. Official announcements tell part of the story: In July 2025, UNISA confirmed that its myModules learning management system suffered a 3.5‑hour outage; the ICT team apologised and noted that the system was again fully available. A few months earlier, in April 2025, UNISA admitted that myModules was experiencing instability following maintenance and that its ICT team was working to resolve the issue. On 19 June 2024, the university issued another alert: intermittent “data‑root permission” errors were preventing students from opening/uploading PDF files and even uploading profile pictures. Urgent maintenance was scheduled Problems are not new. In November 2017, the university apologised because postgraduate students couldn’t upload their application documents; the issue was later fixed . Earlier that year, UNISA warned that myUnisa and the application system could be intermittently unavailable due to technical problems and urged students encountering errors to restart their browsers . These technical failures undermine the university’s digital ambitions. Students share strategies to cope: third‑year student Primrose Tau told IOL that system crashes frequently occur near assignment deadlines, so it’s wise to convert assignments to PDF and submit early. Academic research echoes the problem. A 2024 qualitative study on UNISA’s online learning experience found that internet connectivity is one of the major challenges; many students, especially those in rural areas, cannot stay connected to myUnisa, and some are unaware that modules are purely online. The study notes that students often lack internet access or appropriate devices, leading to missed deadlines and dropouts Despite repeated promises from UNISA’s ICT team, applicants still encounter the dreaded “system unavailable” message. Trending searches like “unisa upload documents login” and “unisa online application” reveal a persistent lack of confidence in the system. Student Number Chaos: Forgetting and Recovering Your Identity Every UNISA student is identified by an eight‑digit student number. Without it, applicants cannot log in, check their status, or pay fees. Yet many new applicants forget or misplace the number after receiving it via email or SMS, spurring popular searches such as “unisa student number,” “unisa forgot student number,” and “unisa student number recovery.” A guide on CareersPortal explains how to recover a forgotten student number. Students must visit UNISA’ s home page, click on “Forgotten Student Number” and fill in their personal details; the number will then be sent to their email. ADVERTISEMENT Another tutorial from Seminarsonly advises applicants to go to the Student Number Recovery page, enter their full name, birth date, and ID/passport number, and submit the form. Students can also call UNISA’s helpline or visit a regional office These steps sound straightforward, but applicants complain that the recovery page times out or fails to recognise their information. Without a functional number, they cannot access the Unisa application tool or upload documents, causing a bureaucratic loop. The university’s response has been to remind students to write down their student number and keep their contact details updated. While personal responsibility matters, the number of queries about forgotten or invalid student numbers suggests deeper usability issues. The Money Trail: Application Fees and Banking Details Confusion Every first‑time applicant must pay a non‑refundable application fee (R150 for online applications) once they’ve received a student number. UNISA instructs applicants to send proof of payment to susdepid@unisa.ac.za and to use the student number plus an allocation number (e.g., “5370810030”) as the reference when making an electronic funds transfer. The university emphasises that incomplete or incorrect information on the deposit slip will delay allocation and that payments may take two to ten working days to reflect on the student account Yet many students complain that the system still shows “unpaid” even after payment. Officially, UNISA notes that late or incorrect references are common reasons for delays . But social‑media posts reveal confusion over which bank account to use and whether to pay via Capitec, FNB or ABSA. The Unisa payment methods page lists separate account numbers for study fees, the application fee, library fees, and more. Without clear guidance, some applicants make mistakes, and their payments are unallocated. Others pay the fee before receiving a student number, even though UNISA warns that any application without a fee paid on time will not be processed. These issues fuel the popularity of searches like “unisa application fee banking details” and “how to pay application fee at unisa.” While the official information exists, it is scattered across multiple pages, and delays in processing create mistrust. UNISA could streamline the payment process through a single online portal that confirms payment in real time. Admissions Crisis: Delays, Limited Spaces, and Silent Rejections UNISA uses a points‑based system to evaluate applications for undergraduate qualifications. According to the Application outcomes page, applicants are assessed based on academic admission requirements, their academic points score (APS), and the number of spaces available for their chosen qualification. The page warns: Applicants who do not qualify will receive feedback as soon as their applications are processed Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance; spaces are limited, and offers may only be made once all applications received by the closing date have been processed Applicants who qualify will only receive final feedback after all applications have been processed In other words, you could meet the academic requirements but still not receive an offer due to enrolment management. This system leaves many hopefuls, like Thandi, stuck in limbo. The problem is exacerbated by delays in processing applications. The blog Search notes that UNISA typically takes about three months to process and accept applications . ADVERTISEMENT CareersPortal reiterates that the review process can take up to three months, and advises applicants to complete a First‑Year Experience MOOC and accept or decline offers promptly. While waiting, statuses remain “Pending,” prompting desperate searches for “unisa application 2026,” “unisa application status accept offer,” and “track application status.” Tracking Black Hole: How to Check Application Status UNISA provides a Check Your Application Status link on its website. According to a TechCabal guide, applicants must visit www.unisa.ac.za , click on “Check Your Application Status,” enter their ID, surname, and date of birth, and then click submit The system will display whether your application is still under review, accepted, or declined. CareerPortal recommends checking regularly and emphasises that UNISA communicates the outcome via email However, when the portal shows “pending” for months, students have little recourse. The backlog means that by the time an offer arrives, the student may have accepted a place elsewhere or missed the registration deadline. Applicants are advised to contact student support services if the status remains unchanged for an extended period but reaching UNISA by phone or email can be difficult during peak periods. The Mystery of NVT and Other Codes As if the application process weren’t complicated enough, UNISA sometimes displays cryptic codes like NVT on the status page. The query “NVT meaning in UNISA” trends every admissions cycle. A blog post on Searche explains that NVT stands for “Not Applicable.” It is used in the application tool to indicate that a particular course or qualification is not relevant to your situation. The article notes that NVT appears during the selection phase and is meant to simplify course selection, yet many applicants find it confusing. The same post reminds students that UNISA may take up to three months to process applications Lack of clear guidance on status codes like NVT, DR, Q, or AP feeds anxiety and speculation. UNISA’s communications rarely explain these abbreviations, forcing students to turn to TikTok videos and informal blogs for interpretations. Properly labelled status messages and an official glossary would reduce confusion. Conclusion: A Call for Transparency and Better Systems UNISA’s promise of accessible, digital‑first education is undermined by unstable systems, opaque processes, and limited communication. System outages, login errors, and document upload failures persist despite repeated assurances. Students struggle to recover forgotten student numbers, navigate complex payment instructions, and wait months for admissions decisions 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 Scholarships NDMC Bursary 2027 Opens for South African Students — Apply by Sept. 30 . Students Portal NSFAS Trimester 3 Applications 2026: Deadline and Requirements . Students Guide NSFAS Trimester 3 Applications 2026: Deadline and Requirements . Students Guide NSFAS 2026 Application Status: How to Check . Education Second Chance Matric Programme: How to Register . ADVERTISEMENT Other universities on the continent have embraced digital transformation without such chronic failures. Applicants to institutions like the University of Pretoria or University of Cape Town typically receive decisions within weeks and can track their status without system crashes (experience shared by prospective students, though official statistics are lacking). UNISA must adopt similar best practices: a unified portal for applications and payments, real‑time payment confirmation, clear status codes, and stronger IT infrastructure. Above all, the university needs to communicate transparently with applicants about delays and selection criteria. Until these improvements are made, students like Thandi will continue to refresh their browsers, hoping for a status update that may take months to arrive. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) How do I track my UNISA application status? Visit www.unisa.ac.za , click “Check Your Application Status” and enter your ID, surname, and date of birth. UNISA will display whether your application is under review, accepted, or declined. You should also monitor your email, as UNISA communicates outcomes via email. Note that the review process can take up to three months What does NVT mean in UNISA status? NVT stands for “Not Applicable.” It indicates that a particular qualification or option is not relevant to your application. The code is part of UNISA’s application tool and may appear during the selection phase. It does not mean your application is unsuccessful, but rather that a certain course does not apply to you. How do I recover a UNISA student number? Go to UNISA’s homepage and click “Forgotten Student Number.” Fill in your personal details (full name, date of birth, ID/passport number) and submit the form; your student number will be emailed to you. You can also call UNISA’s helpline or visit a regional office. Always write down your student number once you receive it. How do I pay the UNISA application fee? First, obtain a student number. Then pay the non‑refundable R150 application fee via bank deposit or electronic funds transfer. Use your student number and the allocation number 5370810030 as the payment reference. Send proof of payment to susdepid@unisa.ac.za . Payments may take 2–10 working days to reflect; incomplete references will delay the process Why does my UNISA application status remain “pending”? UNISA processes applications based on admission requirements, academic points score, and the number of spaces available. Offers may only be made after all applications received by the closing date have been evaluated. Because spaces are limited, even qualified applicants may need to wait up to three months for a final decision. If your status remains unchanged for an extended period, contact UNISA’s admissions office for assistance. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Scholarships NDMC Bursary 2027 Opens for South African Students — Apply by Sept. 30 NDMC Bursary 2027 applications are open until September 30. See eligibility, funding, documents . Students Portal NSFAS Trimester 3 Applications 2026: Deadline and Requirements NSFAS Trimester 3 applications close today, 23 August 2026. Check requirements and apply through . Students Guide NSFAS Trimester 3 Applications 2026: Deadline and Requirements Apply for NSFAS TVET Trimester 3 funding by 23 August 2026. Check eligibility, documents, . Students Guide NSFAS 2026 Application Status: How to Check Check your NSFAS 2026 application status online, understand each result, upload missing . Tags South Africans Students Portal South Africans Students Portal South Africa Gov Services South Africa Gov Services South Africa South Africa

DRC Minister Patrick Muyaya warns against division, urging Congolese unity and restraint to deny Rwanda any pretext for war in eastern Congo. The Congolese government’s spokesperson and Minister of Communication, Patrick Muyaya , has called on citizens and political actors to remain vigilant in the face of Rwanda’s ongoing provocations, stressing the importance of national unity. Speaking during an interview on Telesud, Muyaya underlined that Rwanda is “ obsessed with the idea of finding, by all means possible, some form of hate speech in the DRC” to justify its expansionist ambitions. “We must avoid giving Rwanda any pretext for war in the DRC,” declared Muyaya , insisting that the Congolese people must remain united and disciplined in their resistance. A Call for Restraint and Unity The Minister emphasized that frustrations inside the country, particularly in the east, must be managed responsibly so they are not manipulated by Kigali. He pointed to the case of Uvira, where tensions around the Wazalendo have been exploited by Rwanda’s propaganda machine. “The enemy thrives on division,” Muyaya warned. “Our duty is to channel frustrations constructively and avoid falling into the traps laid by those who want to destabilize us.” Rejecting Rwanda’s Narrative Rwanda has repeatedly claimed to act as a “protector” of certain communities in eastern Congo, a position Muyaya described as dangerous and destabilizing. He argued that such rhetoric only stigmatizes Congolese citizens and fuels violence. “No foreign president has the right to massacre Congolese civilians under the pretext of protecting others,” he said, reaffirming Kinshasa’s determination to defend sovereignty and restore peace. Continue Reading Full Article WAR IN EASTERN DRC Patrick Muyaya: “We must not give Rwanda any pretext for war.” By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Sep 14, 2025 May 15, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Congolese government’s spokesperson and Minister of Communication, Patrick Muyaya , has called on citizens and political actors to remain vigilant in the face of Rwanda’s ongoing provocations, stressing the importance of national unity. Speaking during an interview on Telesud, Muyaya underlined that Rwanda is “ obsessed with the idea of finding, by all means possible, some form of hate speech in the DRC” to justify its expansionist ambitions. ADVERTISEMENT “We must avoid giving Rwanda any pretext for war in the DRC,” declared Muyaya , insisting that the Congolese people must remain united and disciplined in their resistance. A Call for Restraint and Unity The Minister emphasized that frustrations inside the country, particularly in the east, must be managed responsibly so they are not manipulated by Kigali. He pointed to the case of Uvira, where tensions around the Wazalendo have been exploited by Rwanda’s propaganda machine. “The enemy thrives on division,” Muyaya warned. “Our duty is to channel frustrations constructively and avoid falling into the traps laid by those who want to destabilize us.” ADVERTISEMENT Rejecting Rwanda’s Narrative Rwanda has repeatedly claimed to act as a “protector” of certain communities in eastern Congo, a position Muyaya described as dangerous and destabilizing. He argued that such rhetoric only stigmatizes Congolese citizens and fuels violence. “No foreign president has the right to massacre Congolese civilians under the pretext of protecting others,” he said, reaffirming Kinshasa’s determination to defend sovereignty and restore peace. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Policy and Reforms DRC Assembly Backs $625m for Schools, Businesses and Health . Economic Policies DRC Creates Deposit Guarantee Fund to Protect Bank Customers . Social Service DRC Moves to Bring More Public Workers Onto the Payroll . Development DRC Plans $440 Million for Rural Water, Electricity and Infrastructure . Opposition Politics Why C64 Plans a July 8 March to Demand Tshisekedi's Resignation . ADVERTISEMENT A Message to the World Muyaya’s intervention comes at a time when the DRC continues to press the international community to recognize the atrocities committed in the east as genocide. His statement serves both as a warning to Rwanda and as a reminder to the Congolese public: unity, not division, will secure victory. READ ALSO: Muyaya on France 24: DRC Will Win War, Genocide Must Be Recognized ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Policy and Reforms DRC Assembly Backs $625m for Schools, Businesses and Health Lawmakers back four financing bills supporting entrepreneurs, primary education, maternal health . Economic Policies DRC Creates Deposit Guarantee Fund to Protect Bank Customers DRC approves FGADEC, a national deposit-guarantee fund designed to protect eligible savings, . Social Service DRC Moves to Bring More Public Workers Onto the Payroll DRC plans to make salary inclusion a 2027 budget priority, aiming to progressively bring eligible . Development DRC Plans $440 Million for Rural Water, Electricity and Infrastructure DRC plans more than $440 million in its 2027 budget for rural water, electricity and basic . Tags DRC Politics DRC Politics DR.Congo DR.Congo Congolese Genocide Congolese Genocide Patrick Muyaya Katembwe Patrick Muyaya Katembwe Genocost Genocost

From Kinshasa to Kananga, via Mbuji-Mayi, the modernization of university infrastructure is opening up new prospects for students, teachers and scientific research. Introduction — Campuses to Support the Future Universities play a central role in building a society capable of meeting its economic, social and technological challenges. They train tomorrow's professionals, foster scientific research and transmit the knowledge needed for development. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, improving study conditions is therefore a major challenge, particularly in a country where young people make up a significant share of the population. In Kinshasa, the National Pedagogical University (Université pédagogique nationale, UPN) is continuing the modernization of a historic institution dedicated to education and training. In Kananga, the University of Kananga (UNIKAN) is benefiting from a campus designed to strengthen higher education provision in Kasaï-Central. In Mbuji-Mayi, the Official University of Mbuji-Mayi (UOM) has new facilities intended to improve the reception and academic support of students in Kasaï-Oriental. These projects differ in their locations, histories and facilities. However, they have one thing in common: bringing students closer to infrastructure suited to contemporary learning. Lecture halls, laboratories, libraries, administrative offices, computer rooms and accommodation are not merely architectural features. They are tools that can facilitate teaching, research and university life. However, physical modernization alone is not enough to guarantee academic excellence. It must be accompanied by regular maintenance, functional equipment, qualified staff, relevant academic programs and equitable access to education. Only under these conditions will new buildings be able to generate lasting benefits. This report reviews the development of these three institutions, the main stages of the announced construction and renovation work, and the opportunities they create for Congolese higher education. Dates and figures have been drawn from the information supplied for this report and the institutional sources listed at the end; they should be confirmed with the institutions concerned before any official publication. Three institutions, one shared ambition: to make campuses centers of knowledge, innovation and service to society. At a Glance — Three Universities, Three Regions Why Infrastructure Matters Suitable classrooms improve concentration and make it possible to organize classes more regularly. Well-equipped laboratories give students the opportunity to put theoretical knowledge into practice. Libraries and computer rooms broaden access to documentary and digital resources. Finally, effective administrative services can simplify the experience of both students and teachers. Continue Reading Full Article INFRASTRUCTURE DRC: Three Universities Modernized Under Félix Tshisekedi By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Oct 27, 2026 Oct 27, 2026 17 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Introduction — Campuses to Support the Future Universities play a central role in building a society capable of meeting its economic, social and technological challenges. They train tomorrow's professionals, foster scientific research and transmit the knowledge needed for development. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, improving study conditions is therefore a major challenge, particularly in a country where young people make up a significant share of the population. In Kinshasa, the National Pedagogical University (Université pédagogique nationale, UPN) is continuing the modernization of a historic institution dedicated to education and training. In Kananga, the University of Kananga (UNIKAN) is benefiting from a campus designed to strengthen higher education provision in Kasaï-Central. In Mbuji-Mayi, the Official University of Mbuji-Mayi (UOM) has new facilities intended to improve the reception and academic support of students in Kasaï-Oriental. These projects differ in their locations, histories and facilities. However, they have one thing in common: bringing students closer to infrastructure suited to contemporary learning. Lecture halls, laboratories, libraries, administrative offices, computer rooms and accommodation are not merely architectural features. They are tools that can facilitate teaching, research and university life. However, physical modernization alone is not enough to guarantee academic excellence. It must be accompanied by regular maintenance, functional equipment, qualified staff, relevant academic programs and equitable access to education. Only under these conditions will new buildings be able to generate lasting benefits. This report reviews the development of these three institutions, the main stages of the announced construction and renovation work, and the opportunities they create for Congolese higher education. Dates and figures have been drawn from the information supplied for this report and the institutional sources listed at the end; they should be confirmed with the institutions concerned before any official publication. Three institutions, one shared ambition: to make campuses centers of knowledge, innovation and service to society. At a Glance — Three Universities, Three Regions Institution City / Province Highlighted mission National Pedagogical University (UPN) Kinshasa, Ngaliema Teacher training, professional development and research University of Kananga (UNIKAN) Kananga, Kasaï-Central Strengthening regional higher education and research Official University of Mbuji-Mayi (UOM) Mbuji-Mayi, Kasaï-Oriental Improving students' study conditions and campus facilities Why Infrastructure Matters Suitable classrooms improve concentration and make it possible to organize classes more regularly. Well-equipped laboratories give students the opportunity to put theoretical knowledge into practice. Libraries and computer rooms broaden access to documentary and digital resources. Finally, effective administrative services can simplify the experience of both students and teachers. The actual impact of these facilities must nevertheless be assessed over time. Useful indicators include usage rates, the availability of electricity and water, the condition of equipment, library attendance, access to digital tools and changes in academic performance. Modernization is therefore both a visible achievement and a long-term commitment. It calls for rigorous management and constant attention to the needs of the university community. 1. National Pedagogical University (UPN) A Historic Institution Undergoing Modernization Exterior view of a building on the UPN campus. The National Pedagogical University is a public institution located in Kinshasa, in the Ngaliema municipality, in the Binza-UPN neighborhood. Its history is closely linked to teacher training, an essential field for the quality of the education system as a whole. Over time, the institution has expanded its mission to include professional training, scientific research and contributions to national debate on education. According to the historical information provided for this report, its origins date back to 1961, when the Kinshasa-Binza Pilot Middle-Level Teacher Training School was established. In 1965, the institution became the National Pedagogical Institute (Institut pédagogique national, IPN). On February 23, 2005, Presidential Decree No. 05/007 transformed the IPN into the National Pedagogical University. This development reflects the transition from an institution primarily focused on pedagogical training to a university expected to cover a wider range of disciplines and responsibilities. UPN thus remains an important institution in preparing future teachers and the professionals needed by public and private institutions. Location given: Binza-UPN neighborhood, Ngaliema municipality, Kinshasa; at the intersection of Matadi Road and Avenue de la Libération, formerly Avenue du 24 Novembre. Postal address provided: P.O. Box 8815, Kinshasa, DRC. UPN — Modernization Carried Out in Stages Upgrading a university campus is rarely accomplished in a single operation. It requires prioritizing buildings, planning work and maintaining academic activities wherever possible. For UPN, the information gathered in this report describes a phased program intended to address the deterioration of certain facilities and adapt spaces to current needs. In May 2021, President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo announced his intention to rehabilitate the institution's infrastructure. The program subsequently continued through various interventions. On July 9, 2025, new facilities were officially handed over to the university, including the rectorate building, the K2 amphitheater and the sports complex named after Félix Tshisekedi. The report also mentions the handover of additional facilities on October 6, 2026, as part of the fourth and final phase of the project, including lecture halls, administrative offices and scientific laboratories. As this date came after some of the publications potentially used in preparing the report and requires corroboration from an official source, it is presented here as information to verify before publication. ADVERTISEMENT Rectorate building or administrative area shown among the UPN photographs. The continuity of the program matters: a modern campus must simultaneously meet the needs of teaching, administration, sports activities and research. These different components complement one another and can improve the university experience when they are maintained and genuinely made available to users. UPN — Spaces That Support Teaching Lecture halls are at the heart of teaching activities. Their capacity, ventilation, lighting and equipment directly influence classroom conditions. Well-designed rooms can facilitate lectures, conferences and group activities. At a university with a focus on pedagogy, these spaces can also serve as places to experiment with new teaching methods. View of a building and its surroundings. Laboratories are equally important. They make it possible to move beyond theoretical instruction and familiarize students with the methods, instruments and safety rules specific to their fields. Their impact nevertheless depends on the availability of consumable supplies, maintenance of equipment and supervision by qualified teachers and technicians. Modernizing administrative offices can help improve record management, examination organization, enrollment procedures and communication with students. Indeed, an institution's effectiveness depends as much on the quality of its administration as on its classrooms. Investment in buildings must also be accompanied by a maintenance strategy: regular facility inspections, preventive repairs, waste management, care of green spaces and planning for operating costs. Without these measures, new facilities can deteriorate quickly. UPN — A Responsibility Beyond Buildings General view of a campus building. The modernization of UPN carries symbolic importance because it concerns an institution whose history is closely tied to teacher training in the DRC. Improving learning conditions at a university of this kind can have indirect effects on schools, as future teachers acquire skills that they will in turn pass on. But the challenge goes beyond the campus's appearance. To measure progress, it is necessary to examine the actual availability of classrooms, class sizes, equipment functionality, access to teaching resources and the development of research. These data would help distinguish visible achievements from the academic outcomes obtained over several years. UPN must also address challenges common to many universities: aligning courses with labor-market needs, supporting researchers, providing access to digital resources and assisting students. New buildings may create a more favorable environment, but their potential will depend on how they are integrated into the institution's educational mission. In short, UPN's modernization presents an opportunity to consolidate its historic mission while meeting the demands of a contemporary university: high-quality teaching, research useful to society and the training of professionals capable of working in a changing environment. 2. University of Kananga (UNIKAN) A Modern Campus Serving Kasaï-Central Building presented in the UNIKAN photographic report. The University of Kananga is a public higher education institution located in Kasaï-Central province. Its development responds to an important need: enabling young people in the region to pursue university studies without routinely having to travel to other provinces. According to the historical information supplied, the institution originated in 2000 with the establishment of the Kananga University Center, which was then affiliated with the University of Lubumbashi. In 2007, it gained independence and officially adopted the name University of Kananga (UNIKAN). Since then, it has continued its mission of education, research and community service. The modern campus is located at the Katambayi site, in the Nganza municipality of Kananga, the capital of Kasaï-Central. This location provides a foundation for the development of local higher education and can help create an academic environment centered on teaching, research and student life. Having a dedicated campus also makes it easier to organize university activities. Lecture halls, laboratories, libraries and administrative services can be brought together in one complex, encouraging interaction between disciplines and easier movement for students. ADVERTISEMENT UNIKAN — Construction and Announced Facilities The information gathered for this report indicates that construction of the modern campus began in 2022 and was completed in December 2025. President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo is reported to have officially inaugurated the new campus on January 27, 2026. These milestones should be checked against the latest institutional communications before final publication. The announced complex includes 16 lecture halls seating 200 people each , representing a theoretical total lecture-hall capacity of 3,200 seats . It is also reported to include 14 research laboratories , two administrative buildings with 72 offices and meeting rooms , two libraries and one computer room . The report also mentions three residential blocks accommodating 200 students , as well as a 330 kVA photovoltaic installation intended to contribute to the campus's electricity supply. If these facilities are fully operational, they could meet several practical needs: teaching spaces, hands-on activities, access to research materials, accommodation and continuity of certain services when electricity supplies are unreliable. However, the number of facilities alone is not enough to establish their effectiveness. Their condition, level of use, availability of technical staff and maintenance resources will also need to be assessed. The announced capacity should be compared with actual student enrollment and the programs being offered. UNIKAN — Turning Investment Into Results Another view of the UNIKAN campus. Opening a modern campus can change the prospects for higher education in a province. Laboratories accessible to students can strengthen practical training; a library and computer room can expand research opportunities; and suitable administrative areas can simplify university procedures. Student accommodation is another consideration. When accessible and well managed, it can reduce some difficulties associated with transport and finding private housing. Its usefulness nevertheless depends on allocation criteria, costs, security and the basic services available. The announced photovoltaic installation offers an interesting way to strengthen the campus's energy resilience. To assess its contribution, it would be useful to know its actual output, which buildings it serves, how it is maintained and how it connects with the power grid or any backup systems. Beyond construction, UNIKAN will need to make these facilities fully functional through a coherent academic program, sufficient supervision, scientific partnerships and transparent management. The local community could then benefit not only from a more functional campus but also from an institution capable of contributing to the research and skills needed by Kasaï-Central. 3. Official University of Mbuji-Mayi (UOM) A New Campus for the Youth of Kasaï-Oriental University building appearing in the UOM photo series. The Official University of Mbuji-Mayi is a public higher education institution intended to meet the education and scientific research needs of Kasaï-Oriental. It should be distinguished from the University of Mbujimayi, another institution in the same city that has private and community-based status. According to the information provided for this report, its history began in 1993, when the Mbuji-Mayi University Center opened during the 1993-1994 academic year. Initially, the institution had no campus of its own, and classes were held in different buildings across the city. In 2001, the center became an extension of the University of Lubumbashi, before gaining autonomy in 2005 under the name Official University of Mbuji-Mayi. The new campus is located in the Kansele neighborhood, Muya municipality, in Mbuji-Mayi, the capital of Kasaï-Oriental. The administrative address provided for this report is: 27 Avenue Kalonji, Kansele neighborhood, Muya municipality, Mbuji-Mayi, DRC. This address should be confirmed with the university before being used for official correspondence. Building a permanent campus is particularly important for an institution whose students, according to the information presented, had long attended classes in premises not specifically designed to accommodate all university activities. UOM — Buildings to Better Accommodate Students Building and outdoor facilities shown in the report. Construction and modernization work is reported to have begun on April 2, 2022 , with funding from the Congolese government. After several years of construction, President Félix Tshisekedi is reported to have inaugurated the new campus on October 6, 2025 . These dates are drawn from the information provided and should be checked against official records before use in a definitive publication. The complex described in the report comprises three two-story buildings . The first is reported to contain 16 modern lecture halls with 200 seats each . The second is said to house two amphitheaters with 400 seats each . The third is described as a residential building with 154 shared rooms for students. The campus is also reported to include a modern library, an equipped computer room, a staff room and various spaces for the university community. Together, these facilities can support classes, research activities, individual study and interaction between teachers and students. 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 Infrastructure DRC Signs Contracts to Modernise 13 Airports, First Deliveries in 2028 . Infrastructure DRC: Three Universities Modernized Under Félix Tshisekedi . Infrastructure Grand Inga Moves Forward as RDC-US Committee Meets in Paris . Infrastructure Congolese engineers head to France to prepare Grand Inga workforce . Infrastructure DRC Signs $877m MetroKin Airport Rail Agreement . ADVERTISEMENT The essential question will be how these facilities are used every day. Spacious lecture halls must be accompanied by suitable furniture and functional teaching equipment. A library must offer up-to-date books and resources. A computer room needs a reliable connection, technical support and clear access rules. Student rooms require standards of hygiene, safety and management that guarantee acceptable living conditions. UOM — Meeting a Long-Standing Need Moving a university into buildings designed for academic study can improve how classes are organized and students' daily lives. It also provides the institution with greater visibility and a more stable setting in which to develop research projects, establish partnerships and host scientific activities. For Mbuji-Mayi and Kasaï-Oriental, a university campus can become a driver of local development. Students, teachers and staff contribute to demand for services, while university research can inform responses to the region's economic, social, health, environmental and cultural challenges. However, these benefits are not automatic. They depend on the university's ability to offer relevant courses, support its teaching and research staff, build relationships with public institutions and businesses, and enable students to pursue their studies under equitable conditions. Maintenance of the facilities must be anticipated from the moment they enter service. It covers buildings, electrical systems, computer equipment, water access, waste management, security and communal areas. A stable operating budget is just as important as the initial construction funding. The new UOM campus could therefore represent a defining stage in higher education development in Kasaï-Oriental. Its long-term value will be measured by the quality of education provided, students' actual access to facilities and the university's contribution to regional progress. Cross-Cutting Analysis — Infrastructure, but Also Responsibilities The three institutions face different circumstances. UPN is a long-established institution in Kinshasa whose modernization builds on a historic mission. UNIKAN represents a major investment for Kasaï-Central, with a campus whose announced facilities aim to bring teaching, research and services together. UOM, for its part, responds to the need to provide a Kasaï-Oriental institution with more suitable university facilities. These developments point to four common priorities: Maintenance: Set aside budgets, teams and maintenance schedules to preserve buildings and equipment. Academic quality: Link infrastructure to updated programs, continuing teacher training and learning assessments. Equitable access: Ensure students can use libraries, laboratories, computer rooms and housing under transparent rules. Accountability: Publish clear information on costs, construction work, equipment actually available and results achieved. To assess the effects of these investments, universities and authorities could regularly publish straightforward indicators: the number of students served, laboratory usage rates, availability of electricity, library attendance, condition of equipment, maintenance spending and academic results. Such measures would make it possible to track progress beyond inauguration ceremonies. The role of students and teachers is also essential. Their feedback can help identify missing equipment, accessibility problems or necessary improvements. University governance that is open to dialogue increases the likelihood that investments will meet real needs. Finally, modernization should be understood as an ongoing process: needs evolve with student numbers, academic disciplines and technologies. Buildings are not an end in themselves, but a means of creating conditions conducive to learning and research. Conclusion — Investing in Universities, Investing in Congo's Future The modernization of UPN, UNIKAN and UOM illustrates the efforts underway to improve higher education infrastructure in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In Kinshasa, UPN is continuing the transformation of an institution whose origins date back to 1961. In Kananga, UNIKAN's modern campus is presented as a major step forward for Kasaï-Central. In Mbuji-Mayi, UOM's new complex aims to provide students with more suitable learning conditions. These investments can strengthen education, scientific research and young people's access to university studies. Their success will nevertheless depend on the quality of academic supervision, availability of equipment, maintenance of buildings, access to energy and documentary resources, and the institutions' ability to respond to society's needs. Beyond infrastructure, the challenge is to transform these campuses into centers of excellence: places where students acquire solid skills, teachers can conduct research and the knowledge produced contributes to national and local development. Modernization becomes truly meaningful when facilities are used, maintained and integrated into a sustainable academic strategy. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Infrastructure DRC Signs Contracts to Modernise 13 Airports, First Deliveries in 2028 Four firms will rebuild runways and terminals from Kalemie to Muanda under a Treasury-funded plan . Infrastructure DRC: Three Universities Modernized Under Félix Tshisekedi New and renovated campuses in Kinshasa, Kananga and Mbuji-Mayi aim to improve higher education . Infrastructure Grand Inga Moves Forward as RDC-US Committee Meets in Paris Officials meet with the World Bank to coordinate financing, project governance and electricity . Infrastructure Congolese engineers head to France to prepare Grand Inga workforce A Congolese delegation visits Grenoble to develop hydropower training and technical partnerships . Tags DRC Infrastructure DRC Infrastructure DR.Congo DR.Congo

Angola’s case against two Russians and two Angolans highlights wider scrutiny of alleged Russia-linked influence activity in Africa. The upcoming trial in Angola of two Russian nationals and two Angolan defendants has drawn wider attention because it places Luanda at the centre of a broader African debate over alleged foreign influence operations. According to a BBC investigation prosecutors accuse the group of trying to stir anti-government protests, spread disinformation and interfere in Angola’s political direction. The defence rejects the allegations and says the case lacks concrete factual support. Angolan authorities had already announced in August 2025 that two men identified as Igor Ratchin and Lev Lakshtanov were arrested in Luanda on suspicion of offences including criminal association, terrorism and terrorism financing, according to the state news agency ANGOP . Later, in December 2025, Angola’s Prosecutor General’s Office said the two Russians, along with Angolans Amor Carlos Tomé and Francisco Oliveira, were formally charged with crimes including espionage, terrorism and terrorism financing, also as reported by ANGOP. What gives the case broader significance is not only the charges themselves, but the geopolitical framing around them. The reports that prosecutors linked the alleged operation to efforts aimed at shifting Angola’s political course at a time when President João Lourenço has strengthened ties with Western partners and overseen projects seen as strategically important beyond Angola’s borders. That gives the case a regional resonance, especially as African governments face growing pressure to manage external security, media and political influence. The trial could therefore become more than a domestic criminal proceeding. It may also serve as a test of how African states respond when alleged foreign-backed information campaigns intersect with national politics, security concerns and international alignment. For now, the central claims remain allegations before the court, and the outcome will depend on what prosecutors are able to prove during trial. Source: BBC INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Angola trial spotlights Russia-linked influence push in Africa By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Mar 24, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The upcoming trial in Angola of two Russian nationals and two Angolan defendants has drawn wider attention because it places Luanda at the centre of a broader African debate over alleged foreign influence operations. According to a BBC investigation prosecutors accuse the group of trying to stir anti-government protests, spread disinformation and interfere in Angola’s political direction. The defence rejects the allegations and says the case lacks concrete factual support. Angolan authorities had already announced in August 2025 that two men identified as Igor Ratchin and Lev Lakshtanov were arrested in Luanda on suspicion of offences including criminal association, terrorism and terrorism financing, according to the state news agency ANGOP . ADVERTISEMENT Later, in December 2025, Angola’s Prosecutor General’s Office said the two Russians, along with Angolans Amor Carlos Tomé and Francisco Oliveira, were formally charged with crimes including espionage, terrorism and terrorism financing, also as reported by ANGOP. What gives the case broader significance is not only the charges themselves, but the geopolitical framing around them. The reports that prosecutors linked the alleged operation to efforts aimed at shifting Angola’s political course at a time when President João Lourenço has strengthened ties with Western partners and overseen projects seen as strategically important beyond Angola’s borders. ADVERTISEMENT That gives the case a regional resonance, especially as African governments face growing pressure to manage external security, media and political influence. The trial could therefore become more than a domestic criminal proceeding. It may also serve as a test of how African states respond when alleged foreign-backed information campaigns intersect with national politics, security concerns and international alignment. For now, the central claims remain allegations before the court, and the outcome will depend on what prosecutors are able to prove during trial. Source: BBC 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 Infrastructure DRC and Angola Accelerate Joint Oil and Power Projects . Infrastructure DRC Prepares $1.258 Billion Lobito Corridor Railway Contract . African Culture Who Are the Himba tribe? Culture, Traditions and Life in Namibia . International Relations Pope Leo XIV to visit Angola shrine tied to slave trade . International Relations Angola trial spotlights Russia-linked influence push in Africa . ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Infrastructure DRC and Angola Accelerate Joint Oil and Power Projects Leaders target shared oil revenue, SONANGOL supplies and electricity for Grand Katanga . Infrastructure DRC Prepares $1.258 Billion Lobito Corridor Railway Contract The $1.258 billion project would modernize 1,004.5 km of railway linking Grand Katanga . African Culture Who Are the Himba tribe? Culture, Traditions and Life in Namibia Exploring the traditions, beliefs, lifestyle, and heritage of the Himba people. . International Relations Pope Leo XIV to visit Angola shrine tied to slave trade After Mass near Luanda, Pope Leo heads to Muxima, a shrine tied to Angola’s slave-trade past. . Tags Angola Angola Xtrafrica News Xtrafrica News African Union African Union

Bayer Leverkusen defender Edmond Tapsoba is dreaming big, hoping to guide Burkina Faso to their first-ever FIFA World Cup™ qualification. After four rounds of CAF qualifying, the West African nation is currently third in Group A. Following his call-up for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ qualifiers, Tapsoba received a hero's welcome upon arriving in Ouagadougou. The 25-year-old had just completed a stellar season with Bayer Leverkusen, helping his club achieve an unbeaten domestic season, winning the Bundesliga and German Cup double, and finishing as runners-up in the UEFA Europa League. "I want to give back all the happiness my people give me," Tapsoba shared in an exclusive interview with FIFA. "They never stop supporting and encouraging me, even in difficult times." Nicknamed "Zaksoba," meaning "the head of the house," Tapsoba aspires to lead Burkina Faso to their first FIFA World Cup™. "We’re dreaming about it and giving ourselves the means to get there," he stated, emphasizing the importance of concentration and learning from previous generations. Tapsoba has exchanged ideas with veteran players like Jonathan Pitroipa, Aristide Bance, and Djakaridja Kone, reflecting on the near-miss in the 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Jun 17, 2024 May 15, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Bayer Leverkusen defender Edmond Tapsoba is dreaming big, hoping to guide Burkina Faso to their first-ever FIFA World Cup™ qualification. After four rounds of CAF qualifying, the West African nation is currently third in Group A. Following his call-up for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ qualifiers, Tapsoba received a hero's welcome upon arriving in Ouagadougou. The 25-year-old had just completed a stellar season with Bayer Leverkusen, helping his club achieve an unbeaten domestic season, winning the Bundesliga and German Cup double, and finishing as runners-up in the UEFA Europa League. "I want to give back all the happiness my people give me," Tapsoba shared in an exclusive interview with FIFA. "They never stop supporting and encouraging me, even in difficult times." Nicknamed "Zaksoba," meaning "the head of the house," Tapsoba aspires to lead Burkina Faso to their first FIFA World Cup™. ADVERTISEMENT "We’re dreaming about it and giving ourselves the means to get there," he stated, emphasizing the importance of concentration and learning from previous generations. Tapsoba has exchanged ideas with veteran players like Jonathan Pitroipa, Aristide Bance, and Djakaridja Kone, reflecting on the near-miss in the 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign. "Our brothers came so close to qualifying but came up against a great Algerian team," he lamented. "The country deserves to again experience that feeling, but in a more prolonged way." After the 2023 CAF Africa Cup of Nations, where Burkina Faso reached the knockout phase, the team made strategic changes. Brama Traore, former coach of the U-20 and U-23 teams, was appointed head coach in March. Tapsoba praised Traore's approach, stating, ADVERTISEMENT "He’s a coach who puts discipline at the heart of our game and knows how to bang his fist on the table when he has to." Despite recent setbacks – a 2-1 loss to Egypt and a 2-2 draw with Sierra Leone – Burkina Faso remains in the top three of their section. "We knew when we set our goal that it wasn't going to be easy, but we're still alive," Tapsoba said confidently. "The road to North America is a long one, and I remain confident in the abilities of my team." With determination and strategic focus, Tapsoba and his teammates are committed to making Burkina Faso proud on the global stage. 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

Who is Justin Galloway? Explore his education, Boxer career and CEO-designate appointment, with the planned March 2027 handover explained in a verified profile. Justin Galloway is a South African chartered accountant and retail executive appointed CEO-designate of Boxer Retail on 12 October 2026. His career at the grocery retailer has taken him from finance into store operations and supply-chain leadership. He is scheduled to become chief executive on 1 March 2027 , succeeding Marek Masojada. The distinction between the two roles is important. Galloway’s appointment as CEO-designate takes effect immediately, while the company has set a later date for him to assume the chief executive’s responsibilities. Boxer’s formal stock-exchange announcement sets out that timetable and the transition arrangements. Who is Justin Galloway? Justin Galloway is a South African retail executive and chartered accountant who joined Boxer in 2012. His experience spans accounting, store operations and supply-chain management. Appointed CEO-designate in October 2026, he is scheduled to succeed Marek Masojada as Boxer’s chief executive on 1 March 2027. Education and professional foundation Galloway’s route into retail began with an accounting background. Boxer’s 2024 pre-listing statement records an Honours qualification in Accounting from the University of KwaZulu-Natal in 2005 and his qualification as a Chartered Accountant in South Africa in 2008. The same document says he served his articles at KPMG and worked for Hogan Lovells before joining Boxer. Those experiences preceded his move into the retailer’s internal finance function. His subsequent promotions show a career that extended beyond accounting. Over time, he moved closer to the everyday operation of stores and the movement of goods, combining financial training with responsibility for the systems that support a supermarket business. From accounting to store operations Galloway joined Boxer in 2012 as a Project and Financial Accountant . He became Operations General Manager of the Punch Division in 2015 , moved into the Supply Chain Executive role in 2017 , and was appointed Group Executive: Supply Chain in 2020 . This progression gives his appointment a clear internal history. He has worked across several functions rather than arriving at Boxer directly for the chief executive role. Continue Reading Full Article BIOGRAPHY Justin Galloway Biography: Career and Boxer CEO-Designate Appointment By Kamau Bahati Entertainment Editor Kamau Bahati Home Comment Oct 12, 2026 Oct 12, 2026 7 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Justin Galloway is a South African chartered accountant and retail executive appointed CEO-designate of Boxer Retail on 12 October 2026. His career at the grocery retailer has taken him from finance into store operations and supply-chain leadership. He is scheduled to become chief executive on 1 March 2027 , succeeding Marek Masojada. The distinction between the two roles is important. Galloway’s appointment as CEO-designate takes effect immediately, while the company has set a later date for him to assume the chief executive’s responsibilities. Boxer’s formal stock-exchange announcement sets out that timetable and the transition arrangements. Who is Justin Galloway? Justin Galloway is a South African retail executive and chartered accountant who joined Boxer in 2012. His experience spans accounting, store operations and supply-chain management. Appointed CEO-designate in October 2026, he is scheduled to succeed Marek Masojada as Boxer’s chief executive on 1 March 2027. Education and professional foundation Galloway’s route into retail began with an accounting background. Boxer’s 2024 pre-listing statement records an Honours qualification in Accounting from the University of KwaZulu-Natal in 2005 and his qualification as a Chartered Accountant in South Africa in 2008. The same document says he served his articles at KPMG and worked for Hogan Lovells before joining Boxer. Those experiences preceded his move into the retailer’s internal finance function. His subsequent promotions show a career that extended beyond accounting. Over time, he moved closer to the everyday operation of stores and the movement of goods, combining financial training with responsibility for the systems that support a supermarket business. From accounting to store operations Galloway joined Boxer in 2012 as a Project and Financial Accountant . He became Operations General Manager of the Punch Division in 2015 , moved into the Supply Chain Executive role in 2017 , and was appointed Group Executive: Supply Chain in 2020 . ADVERTISEMENT This progression gives his appointment a clear internal history. He has worked across several functions rather than arriving at Boxer directly for the chief executive role. Daily Investor’s report on the succession describes his involvement in the development of Boxer’s discount format and his subsequent responsibility for supply chain. These are company-backed descriptions of his work, rather than a separate measure of his individual performance. Building the distribution network Supply-chain leadership placed Galloway in a part of the business closely connected to store expansion. Supermarkets need goods to reach stores reliably, while stock levels, transport and distribution costs affect the wider operation. A Boxer announcement published in December 2020 illustrates that work. It described the opening of the company’s fourth distribution centre in Polokwane, intended to support stores in Limpopo and Mpumalanga. The company identified Galloway as Supply Chain Executive and quoted him welcoming the addition to its network. The announcement also reported that the centre had created 225 jobs. That is a dated company account of the facility, rather than a current employment total. Technology and his approach to supply-chain planning Galloway has also publicly discussed investment in supply-chain technology. In a RELEX Solutions partnership announcement , he described the retailer’s intention to automate processes and improve product availability and working capital. He connected those operational aims to the customer proposition: ADVERTISEMENT “Our mission at Boxer is to make quality products and services available to our shoppers at market leading prices.” The statement offers a direct account of the priorities he articulated as a supply-chain executive. It describes intended benefits from technology; it does not, by itself, establish that every projected improvement was achieved. The appointment and planned handover Boxer selected Galloway after a succession process that considered internal and external candidates. He will work alongside Masojada during a five-month transition before the planned March 2027 changeover. Newsday’s coverage places the appointment within the succession process established around Boxer’s November 2024 listing on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. It reports that Masojada will retire as CEO at the end of February 2027. For Galloway, the change represents a move from leading a major business function to leading the company. His existing knowledge of finance, stores and distribution provides the background to that wider responsibility. What comes next at Boxer? The immediate next stage is the handover. Bizcommunity’s report explains that Masojada is expected to remain with the business until November 2027 to support Galloway and the executive team after the formal CEO change. Galloway’s future record as chief executive will develop after he takes office. For now, his biography is defined by his documented progression through Boxer and the board’s decision to entrust him with the next stage of its leadership. 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 Election Results: How to Read the Count . Elections Monitoring South Africa Elections 2026: Voting Hours, IDs and Ballots . Justice & Crime Julius Mkhwanazi, Kagiso Lerutla: Court Case Explained . Sports Trends Khanyisa Mayo Return Update: What Da Cruz Has Said . Elections Monitoring South Africa Special Voting: Hours, IDs and Home Visits . ADVERTISEMENT Justin Galloway’s career timeline Year Event Significance 2005 Accounting Honours qualification at UKZN Established his academic foundation 2008 Qualified as a Chartered Accountant (SA) Completed his professional accounting qualification 2012 Joined Boxer in accounting Began his career inside the retailer 2015 Operations General Manager, Punch Division Moved into store operations 2017 Supply Chain Executive Took on distribution responsibilities 2020 Group Executive: Supply Chain Joined the group executive team 2026 Appointed CEO-designate Selected for the planned chief executive handover 2027 CEO start scheduled for 1 March Future milestone, subject to the announced timetable Justin Galloway FAQs Who is Justin Galloway? He is a South African chartered accountant and retail executive appointed Boxer’s CEO-designate in October 2026. Is he already Boxer’s CEO? As of 12 October 2026, he is CEO-designate. His scheduled CEO start date is 1 March 2027. When did he join Boxer? He joined in 2012 as a Project and Financial Accountant. What did he study? Boxer’s corporate biography records an Accounting Honours qualification from the University of KwaZulu-Natal in 2005. What was his role before the appointment? He led Boxer’s supply-chain function and had been a member of the group executive since 2020. Who is he succeeding? He is scheduled to succeed Marek Masojada, who will retire as CEO at the end of February 2027. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Elections Monitoring South Africa Election Results: How to Read the Count A practical guide to partial tallies, projections, ward winners and municipal council seats. . Elections Monitoring South Africa Elections 2026: Voting Hours, IDs and Ballots South Africans vote on 4 November. Check polling times, voter details, IDs and ballot rules. . Justice & Crime Julius Mkhwanazi, Kagiso Lerutla: Court Case Explained The Ekurhuleni fraud and corruption case returned to the news on 3 November 2026. . Sports Trends Khanyisa Mayo Return Update: What Da Cruz Has Said The Chiefs coach says Mayo is getting closer, but his post-derby comments give no comeback date. . Tags Southern Africa News Southern Africa News South Africa South Africa

Fela becomes first African inducted into Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, marking a major milestone for Afrobeat and global music. Legendary Nigerian musician Fela Anikulapo-Kuti has been posthumously inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame , becoming the first African artist to receive the honour. Fela was selected in the Hall of Fame’s early influence category, placing him alongside notable figures such as Queen Latifah, MC Lyte, Gram Parsons and Celia Cruz. The announcement was made during a broadcast of American Idol , highlighting the global significance of the recognition. The Afrobeat pioneer’s induction underscores his lasting influence on modern music, particularly his fusion of jazz, funk and traditional African rhythms, as well as his outspoken political activism. In the same announcement, Nigerian-born British singer Sade Adu was recognised in the performance category. Meanwhile, high-profile nominees including Shakira, Mariah Carey, Lauryn Hill, New Edition and Pink were not selected this year. According to organisers, the final inductees were chosen through votes cast by more than 1,200 artists, historians and music industry professionals. The official induction ceremony is scheduled to take place on November 14 at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles. Earlier in 2026, Fela was also honoured with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, making him the first African musician to receive the distinction—further cementing his legacy as one of the most influential artists in global music history. Source: Tribune Online Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Fela Becomes First African in Rock & Roll Hall of Fame By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Apr 15, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Legendary Nigerian musician Fela Anikulapo-Kuti has been posthumously inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame , becoming the first African artist to receive the honour. Fela was selected in the Hall of Fame’s early influence category, placing him alongside notable figures such as Queen Latifah, MC Lyte, Gram Parsons and Celia Cruz. The announcement was made during a broadcast of American Idol , highlighting the global significance of the recognition. The Afrobeat pioneer’s induction underscores his lasting influence on modern music, particularly his fusion of jazz, funk and traditional African rhythms, as well as his outspoken political activism. ADVERTISEMENT In the same announcement, Nigerian-born British singer Sade Adu was recognised in the performance category. Meanwhile, high-profile nominees including Shakira, Mariah Carey, Lauryn Hill, New Edition and Pink were not selected this year. According to organisers, the final inductees were chosen through votes cast by more than 1,200 artists, historians and music industry professionals. ADVERTISEMENT The official induction ceremony is scheduled to take place on November 14 at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles. Earlier in 2026, Fela was also honoured with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, making him the first African musician to receive the distinction—further cementing his legacy as one of the most influential artists in global music history. 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: Tribune Online 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

Wazalendo fighters recaptured strategic positions from M23-RDF forces in Masisi, raising pressure on rebel-controlled Rubaya mining areas. Masisi, North Kivu — Wazalendo fighters have regained control of multiple strategic positions from M23 rebels and their Rwandan Defense Forces (RDF) allies following intense fighting over the weekend, dealing a notable setback to the rebels in the Masisi territory. According to local and security sources, violent clashes erupted between May 23 and 24, 2026, in several villages within the Buabo and Nyamaboko I groupings of the Osso Banyungu sector. After hours of heavy combat, Wazalendo forces successfully recaptured the positions of Ntete, Shoa, and Burora, forcing M23-RDF elements to retreat from forward lines. The advances come amid a broader offensive by the young Congolese volunteers, who have intensified pressure on M23 positions since May 17. In the Katoyi sector and Mupfunyi Kibabi grouping, Wazalendo fighters have launched repeated attacks, creating significant concern in Rubaya, a key mining town that serves as a major revenue source for the rebels’ war economy. A sense of panic is now reported in Rubaya as residents brace for further escalation. In the neighboring Walikale territory, Wazalendo forces have also dislodged M23 rebels from two additional villages, securing those areas. In response to the deteriorating situation, M23-RDF commanders are urgently reorganizing their troops. On Monday morning, May 25, five trucks carrying RDF elements withdrawn from positions including Shonyi, Mashango, Lubwe Sud, Kojo, Rubona, and Kashavu were observed gathering near Kitshanga before heading toward Rubaya to bolster embattled fighters who have been under sustained pressure for over a week in the Katoyi sector and Mupfunyi Kibabi grouping. Control of mining areas remains a central driver of the fighting. Wazalendo gains around Rubaya could disrupt M23 supply lines and financing, potentially altering the balance of power in the Masisi region in the coming days. WAR IN DR CONGO Wazalendo Capture Several M23-RDF Positions Near Rubaya By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment May 25, 2026 May 25, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Masisi, North Kivu — Wazalendo fighters have regained control of multiple strategic positions from M23 rebels and their Rwandan Defense Forces (RDF) allies following intense fighting over the weekend, dealing a notable setback to the rebels in the Masisi territory. According to local and security sources, violent clashes erupted between May 23 and 24, 2026, in several villages within the Buabo and Nyamaboko I groupings of the Osso Banyungu sector. After hours of heavy combat, Wazalendo forces successfully recaptured the positions of Ntete, Shoa, and Burora, forcing M23-RDF elements to retreat from forward lines. ADVERTISEMENT The advances come amid a broader offensive by the young Congolese volunteers, who have intensified pressure on M23 positions since May 17. In the Katoyi sector and Mupfunyi Kibabi grouping, Wazalendo fighters have launched repeated attacks, creating significant concern in Rubaya, a key mining town that serves as a major revenue source for the rebels’ war economy. A sense of panic is now reported in Rubaya as residents brace for further escalation. In the neighboring Walikale territory, Wazalendo forces have also dislodged M23 rebels from two additional villages, securing those areas. ADVERTISEMENT In response to the deteriorating situation, M23-RDF commanders are urgently reorganizing their troops. On Monday morning, May 25, five trucks carrying RDF elements withdrawn from positions including Shonyi, Mashango, Lubwe Sud, Kojo, Rubona, and Kashavu were observed gathering near Kitshanga before heading toward Rubaya to bolster embattled fighters who have been under sustained pressure for over a week in the Katoyi sector and Mupfunyi Kibabi grouping. Control of mining areas remains a central driver of the fighting. Wazalendo gains around Rubaya could disrupt M23 supply lines and financing, potentially altering the balance of power in the Masisi region in the coming days. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Policy and Reforms US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . War in Eastern DRC Muyaya: Congo's War Has Nothing to Do With the Constitution . Infrastructure DRC Signs Contracts to Modernise 13 Airports, First Deliveries in 2028 . Economic Reports DRC and IMF Reach Staff-Level Deal on Programme Reviews . | Economy DRC Opens London Forum Seeking Partnerships, Not Aid . ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Policy and Reforms US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty Will Democrats support Kagame after the 2026 midterms? Blinken's statements, Biden's Rwanda policy . War in Eastern DRC Muyaya: Congo's War Has Nothing to Do With the Constitution In London, the DRC government spokesperson rejects constitutional politics as a cause of the eastern . Infrastructure DRC Signs Contracts to Modernise 13 Airports, First Deliveries in 2028 Four firms will rebuild runways and terminals from Kalemie to Muanda under a Treasury-funded plan . Economic Reports DRC and IMF Reach Staff-Level Deal on Programme Reviews Board vote set for December; minister says up to $771 million could follow if approved . Tags DR.Congo DR.Congo Wazalendo DRC Wazalendo DRC M23 Rebels News M23 Rebels News M23 Conflict Updates M23 Conflict Updates M23 Rebels M23 Rebels

Jean-Luc Habyarimana denounces Kigali’s smear campaign amid Rwanda’s growing isolation and Congo war crimes accusations. Kinshasa, DRC — Three decades after the assassination of Rwanda’s former president Juvénal Habyarimana, his family once again finds itself in the crosshairs of Kigali’s propaganda machine. In recent weeks, Rwandan state-aligned media have launched a campaign accusing Jean-Luc Habyarimana, the late president’s son, of plotting with Congolese President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo and Rwandan exiles to overthrow Paul Kagame’s government. But to observers across the region, the attacks reveal something deeper — a regime under strain, seeking new pretexts to justify its continued military presence in eastern Congo. From Genocide Pretext to New Diversion For 31 years, the Habyarimana family has lived under judicial harassment, exile, and defamation. Their patriarch, President Juvénal Habyarimana, was killed on 6 April 1994 when his plane was shot down near Kigali, the event that triggered Rwanda’s genocide and propelled the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF-Inkotanyi) to power. Today, analysts say Kigali’s campaign against the family is part of a familiar pattern: creating diversions whenever international pressure mounts. With Rwanda now accused by the UN and the U.S. State Department of backing the M23 rebels and exploiting Congolese minerals, President Kagame’s government is turning to the old tactic of inventing enemies to sustain a narrative of self-defence. “Attacking President Tshisekedi, who bears the heavy burden of leading a partially occupied nation, is not only a travesty of reality but a cynical diversion meant to hide Rwanda’s crimes in Congo,” said Jean-Luc Habyarimana on social media under the title “Panic in Kigali.” “Gross Lies from a Regime in Despair” Jean-Luc Habyarimana dismissed the accusations as “grotesque fabrications reflecting the fear of a regime trapped in survival mode.” Continue Reading Full Article | POLITICAL SCANDALS Kigali Targets Habyarimana Family as Rwanda Faces Isolation By Guerson Nabushi Nyonkourou Political Analyst Guerson Nabushi Nyonkourou Home Comment Nov 3, 2025 May 15, 2026 6 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Kinshasa, DRC — Three decades after the assassination of Rwanda’s former president Juvénal Habyarimana, his family once again finds itself in the crosshairs of Kigali’s propaganda machine. In recent weeks, Rwandan state-aligned media have launched a campaign accusing Jean-Luc Habyarimana, the late president’s son, of plotting with Congolese President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo and Rwandan exiles to overthrow Paul Kagame’s government. But to observers across the region, the attacks reveal something deeper — a regime under strain, seeking new pretexts to justify its continued military presence in eastern Congo. From Genocide Pretext to New Diversion For 31 years, the Habyarimana family has lived under judicial harassment, exile, and defamation. Their patriarch, President Juvénal Habyarimana, was killed on 6 April 1994 when his plane was shot down near Kigali, the event that triggered Rwanda’s genocide and propelled the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF-Inkotanyi) to power. Today, analysts say Kigali’s campaign against the family is part of a familiar pattern: creating diversions whenever international pressure mounts. With Rwanda now accused by the UN and the U.S. State Department of backing the M23 rebels and exploiting Congolese minerals, President Kagame’s government is turning to the old tactic of inventing enemies to sustain a narrative of self-defence. ADVERTISEMENT “Attacking President Tshisekedi, who bears the heavy burden of leading a partially occupied nation, is not only a travesty of reality but a cynical diversion meant to hide Rwanda’s crimes in Congo,” said Jean-Luc Habyarimana on social media under the title “Panic in Kigali.” “Gross Lies from a Regime in Despair” Jean-Luc Habyarimana dismissed the accusations as “grotesque fabrications reflecting the fear of a regime trapped in survival mode.” “For several days, pro-Kigali media have been spreading false claims that I’m part of a ‘military coalition’ with President Tshisekedi and Rwandan opposition figures. These are lies designed to manipulate public opinion and rewrite history,” he wrote. He accused the RPF of using his family’s name to manufacture threats and maintain control through fear. “The name Habyarimana represents, in the Rwandan collective memory, a time of stability, dialogue, and good neighbourliness. That memory contradicts the RPF’s rule of repression, conflict, and permanent victimhood,” he added. Rewriting History, Erasing Symbols Jean-Luc Habyarimana’s statement echoed that of his elder brother Léon Habyarimana, who recently reminded Rwandans that during their father’s presidency, despite ethnic divisions, Queen Rosalie Gicanda, aunt of Paul Kagame, enjoyed official recognition and a state salary. ADVERTISEMENT “Our father governed without terror. He respected Rwanda’s history and its symbols. The current regime, by contrast, has erased every trace of the past and never recognised the royal family,” Léon Habyarimana wrote. Such reminders strike at the heart of Kagame’s tightly controlled narrative — one that presents the RPF as Rwanda’s sole redeemer while dismissing the pre-1994 state as irredeemably oppressive. From Victimhood to Aggression Jean-Luc Habyarimana accused the Kigali government of mastering the “art of victimisation”, portraying itself as eternally persecuted even while waging wars abroad. “The RPF presents itself as a victim while it invades neighbours, kills civilians, plunders minerals and silences its own citizens,” he said. “Even as the world demands Rwanda withdraw its troops from eastern Congo, Kigali invents imaginary plots to distract from the suffering it causes.” Regional analysts view the attacks on the Habyarimana family as an attempt to muzzle dissent and discredit voices calling for accountability over crimes committed by all sides since 1994. The Struggle for Truth and Reconciliation In his statement, Jean-Luc Habyarimana reaffirmed his peaceful activism: Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Policy and Reforms US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Justice & Crime Trump Moves to Remove Rwanda and South Africa From AGOA . Justice & Crime Rwanda Accused of Deporting Congolese Civilians in South Kivu . War in DR Congo Tshisekedi: Sanctions Forced Kagame to Pull Kabila From His Cave . Biography Claudette Mukashyaka Biography: Rwanda’s New Auditor General . ADVERTISEMENT “By attacking me, the regime seeks to silence any voice that demands truth, justice, and dignity for all victims of the past 30 years. But I remain committed to reconciliation and equitable justice for every Rwandan, regardless of origin.” His advocacy focuses on five principles: Dignified return for refugees. Sincere national reconciliation. Equal justice for all. Sustainable peace in the Great Lakes region. Shared development for future generations. “A day will come, and it will come, when Rwanda rediscovers balance. On that day, no one will speak of plots, but of national renewal,” he concluded. A Wider Context The campaign against the Habyarimana family coincides with mounting diplomatic isolation for Kigali. The UN Security Council’s Resolution 2773 and the U.S. Trafficking in Persons Report have directly linked Rwanda’s military to atrocities and child-soldier recruitment in the DRC. Observers say the new accusations show how far the regime will go to maintain its grip on power and control the narrative of the Great Lakes conflicts. For many across the region, the Habyarimana name, once synonymous with Rwanda’s internal stability, has now become a mirror reflecting the RPF’s inability to reconcile with its own history. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Policy and Reforms US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty Will Democrats support Kagame after the 2026 midterms? Blinken's statements, Biden's Rwanda policy . Justice & Crime Trump Moves to Remove Rwanda and South Africa From AGOA Trump plans to remove Rwanda and South Africa from AGOA trade benefits starting January 1, 2027 . Justice & Crime Rwanda Accused of Deporting Congolese Civilians in South Kivu South Kivu accuses Rwandan forces and M23 of forcibly displacing civilians in Katogota, . War in DR Congo Tshisekedi: Sanctions Forced Kagame to Pull Kabila From His Cave The DRC president accuses Kagame of using Kabila's new rebel leadership to disguise Rwanda's role in... . Tags Rwanda Rwanda