Learn how the Suri lip plate is made possible through gradual stretching, when each step happens, and what the practice means. The Suri lip plate is one of the most recognized forms of body adornment in southwestern Ethiopia. But the plate does not appear all at once. It is made possible through a slow process: the lower lip is cut, held open, healed, and then stretched gradually with larger plugs until it can hold a clay or wooden plate. The most precise academic language sources identify Suri as the Chai and Tirmaga dialects of the Chai-Tirmaga-Mursi cluster. Meaghan E. Smith’s Dallas International University thesis on Suri notes that Chai and Tirmaga share the ISO code [suq], while Mursi is closely related but usually treated separately in current language use ( Smith, 2018, pp. 2–4 pdf ). This distinction matters because many public sources group Suri, Surma, Chai, Tirma, and Mursi together. For the actual lip-plate process, the strongest available evidence comes from sources that name Mursi, Chai, and Tirma together, especially Mursi Online’s Durham University-hosted page on lip plates, and from Shauna LaTosky’s academic essay , “Reflections on the lip-plates of Mursi women”. These sources should be used carefully: Mursi evidence is closely related and useful, but it should not be carelessly presented as if every Suri community follows the process in exactly the same way. Quick Facts The lip plate is worn in the lower lip. The process usually begins around puberty. The first cut is commonly reported at about age 15 or 16. A small wooden stick or plug is inserted first. The lip is stretched slowly with larger plugs. The stretching process can take several months to about one year. Continue Reading Full Article AFRICAN CULTURE The Painful Process Behind Making a Suri Lip Plate By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Jul 10, 2026 Jul 15, 2026 16 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Suri lip plate is one of the most recognized forms of body adornment in southwestern Ethiopia. But the plate does not appear all at once. It is made possible through a slow process: the lower lip is cut, held open, healed, and then stretched gradually with larger plugs until it can hold a clay or wooden plate. The most precise academic language sources identify Suri as the Chai and Tirmaga dialects of the Chai-Tirmaga-Mursi cluster. Meaghan E. Smith’s Dallas International University thesis on Suri notes that Chai and Tirmaga share the ISO code [suq], while Mursi is closely related but usually treated separately in current language use ( Smith, 2018, pp. 2–4 pdf ). This distinction matters because many public sources group Suri, Surma, Chai, Tirma, and Mursi together. Traditional Suri lip plate materials and tools, including wooden and clay lip plates, stretching plugs, and piercing implements used during the gradual process of lip plate preparation among some Suri women in Ethiopia's Omo Valley. For the actual lip-plate process, the strongest available evidence comes from sources that name Mursi, Chai, and Tirma together, especially Mursi Online’s Durham University-hosted page on lip plates, and from Shauna LaTosky’s academic essay , “Reflections on the lip-plates of Mursi women”. These sources should be used carefully: Mursi evidence is closely related and useful, but it should not be carelessly presented as if every Suri community follows the process in exactly the same way. Quick Facts The lip plate is worn in the lower lip. The process usually begins around puberty. The first cut is commonly reported at about age 15 or 16. A small wooden stick or plug is inserted first. The lip is stretched slowly with larger plugs. The stretching process can take several months to about one year. Clay and wooden plates are both documented. The final size depends on the wearer, healing, preference, and how far the lip can stretch. The exact age for lower-incisor removal is not clearly documented in the reviewed sources. Who Are the Suri? In public writing, “Suri” and “Surma” are often used loosely. More precise linguistic research is narrower. Smith explains that Suri, in her thesis, refers to the Chai and Tirmaga dialects of the Chai-Tirmaga-Mursi cluster. She writes that “Suri is a member of the Surmic group” (Smith, 2018, p. 2). Suri women This means that when an article discusses Suri lip plates, it should be clear about source evidence. Some evidence directly names Chai and Tirma. Some comes from Mursi ethnography. Some public sources use broader terms such as Surma or Suri. A careful article should not flatten these communities into one single group. Also read our detailed article on Who Are the Suri People? Ethiopia’s Proud Warrior Culture Jon Abbink’s research on Dizi, Suri, and Me’en plant use describes the Suri as agropastoralists in southwestern Ethiopia. In that study, Abbink writes that “The Suri (about 28,000) are agropastoralists” (Abbink, 1995, p. 2). That wider agropastoral setting helps explain why body adornment, cattle, marriage, and social adulthood are often discussed together in research on these communities. When the Process Begins The most specific age evidence comes from Mursi Online’s lip-plate page , which states that among the Mursi, Chai, and Tirma, a girl’s lower lip is cut “when she reaches the age of 15 or 16.” This is the clearest age marker available in the reviewed sources. Two Suri adolescent girls ready for lip plate LaTosky gives a broader life-stage marker. She writes that when a Mursi girl reaches puberty, “she will have her lip cut and a small wooden stick inserted” (LaTosky, 2006, p. 384). She describes this as a “passage from girlhood to womanhood” (LaTosky, 2006, p. 384). Together, these sources support a careful statement: the process is associated with puberty and is commonly reported around age 15 or 16. It should not be described as something done in early childhood. LaTosky does mention a young child playing with a branch as if wearing a lip plate, but that is imitation in play, not the actual piercing process. ADVERTISEMENT Step One: The Lower Lip Is Cut The first physical step is the cutting of the lower lip. Mursi Online states that the cut is made by a girl’s mother or by another woman from her settlement. LaTosky also records the beginning of the process after puberty, when the lip is cut and a small wooden stick is inserted. A Suri elder performs the traditional piercing of a young girl's lower lip This first cut is not the same as wearing a full plate. It is only the opening stage. The lip has to heal before it can be stretched further. The early wound is delicate, and the sources make clear that gradual change is essential. Abbink’s Suri plant-use research gives one important piece of local context. He records that Ximenia americana oil is used after “ear- and lip-piercing” (Abbink, 1995, p. 7). This does not explain the full lip-plate process, but it does show that Suri communities have documented plant-based aftercare associated with piercing wounds. Step Two: A Wooden Plug Holds the Cut Open After the lower lip is cut, a small wooden stick or plug is inserted. The goal is not yet to create a large opening. It is to keep the cut from closing while the wound heals. Wooden stretching plugs used by the Suri after the initial lower lip piercing. The plugs keep the incision open while it heals and are gradually replaced with larger sizes before a decorative lip plate can be worn. Mursi Online says the cut is held open by a wooden plug until the wound heals, which can take around three months. This healing stage is important because stretching too quickly could tear the lip. LaTosky’s account gives the same basic sequence. First comes the cut. Then comes the small wooden stick. Then the lip is slowly stretched over time. The process is not instant decoration. It is a controlled transformation of the lower lip. Step Three: The Lip Heals The healing period is a major part of the process. Mursi Online gives the clearest timeframe, saying healing can take around three months. During this period, the wooden plug keeps the opening in place. A Wooden Plug within after cutting A Wooden Plug within after cutting This stage is also where local aftercare matters. Abbink’s note about oil used after lip-piercing is useful because it connects the practice to broader Suri knowledge of wounds and healing plants. However, the reviewed evidence does not give a complete medical description of how every wound is treated. Any article should avoid making strong claims about medicine beyond what the sources say. Step Four: Larger Plugs Stretch the Lip Once the first wound has healed enough, the stretching begins. This is the key to how the lip plate becomes possible. Mursi Online describes the process with the phrase “progressively larger plugs.” LaTosky gives a more detailed timeline, saying the lip is cut and stretched “over a one year period by inserting bigger and bigger wooden plugs” before larger lip plates made of clay or wood are worn ( LaTosky, 2006, p. 384 ). ADVERTISEMENT This means the plate is not forced into a newly cut lip. The opening is expanded little by little. Each larger plug increases the size of the opening. Over months, the lower lip becomes elastic enough to hold a plate. The final size is not fixed. Mursi Online notes that it appears to be up to the individual girl to decide how far to stretch the lip. Some continue until the lip can hold plates of 12 centimeters or more. Others stop earlier. LaTosky adds that some girls’ lips cannot withstand long stretching, and a girl may choose not to cut her lip or may stretch only enough for a smaller clay plate (LaTosky, 2006, p. 384). Step Five: Clay or Wooden Plates Are Worn After enough stretching, the lip can hold a plate. LaTosky records both clay and wooden plates. She identifies clay plates as dhebinya and wooden plates as kiyo in her Mursi-focused discussion (LaTosky, 2006, p. 384). Examples of traditional Suri lip plates, showing both carved wooden plates (left) and a decorated fired-clay plate (right). While wooden plates are lighter and often carved from local hardwoods, clay plates allow for decorative incised patterns and are among the most recognizable forms of Suri body adornment The material and style can vary. LaTosky describes red, reddish-brown, black, and natural clay-colored plates. She also notes that wooden plates are often described as large and beautiful, especially among unmarried girls and women in southern Mursi areas ( LaTosky, 2006, pp. 384–385 ). Suri woman ready to fit her first Lip plate Lip plates are inserted only after months of gradual stretching following a lower-lip piercing and stretching A brief attached profile on Surma/Suri describes women as “known for their large clay lip plates,” worn in the lower lip as signs of beauty and prestige. Because that source is short and less academic, it is best used only as supporting context, not as the main authority. What Ages Are Linked to Each Step? The strongest evidence supports this careful timeline: Around puberty, usually about 15 or 16: the lower lip is cut. Immediately after cutting: a small wooden stick or plug is inserted. First healing period, around three months: the wooden plug holds the cut open while the wound heals. Following months: larger wooden plugs are inserted gradually. Over several months to about one year: the lip is stretched enough to hold a plate. Late teenage years and around marriage: unmarried and newly married women are especially associated with wearing lip plates. The exact age at which lower incisors are removed is not clearly given in the reviewed sources. Moges Yigezu’s Cambridge Core article on Chai lip-plate speech confirms that the practice affects “the lower lip and the lower incisors” (Yigezu, 2001, pp. 203–221), but the reviewed abstract does not give the age or sequence of tooth removal. What the Lip Plate Means Mouth adorned Suri women LaTosky argues that the lip plate is tied to social adulthood, maturity, fertility, and marriage. She writes that once the lip is cut, stretched, and fitted with larger plates, the girl is defined as “sexually mature” (LaTosky, 2006, p. 384). 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 African Culture Disability-Selective Infanticide: The Hidden History in Maasailand . African Culture Zee Nxumalo Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs & Amapiano Rise . African Culture Wendy Shay Biography: Age, Nursing Career, Songs & AFRIMA Win . African Culture Vinka Biography: Real Name, Songs, Family & Music Career . African Culture Vestine & Dorcas Biography: Ages, Family, Songs & Career . ADVERTISEMENT Read our detailed article on why Suri women put on lip plates The lip plate is known as an expression of social adulthood and reproductive potential. This is important because the practice should not be reduced to shock, beauty, or tourism. It is part of a wider social language of adulthood, identity, and presentation. LaTosky also shows that women’s views matter. She frames the lip plate within “female strength and self-esteem” (LaTosky, 2006, p. 382). That does not mean every girl has the same experience or motivation. Mursi Online notes that girls may choose whether to pierce and how far to stretch, while also acknowledging peer pressure. The evidence points to a complex practice shaped by personal choice, social expectation, beauty, identity, and adulthood. Misconceptions About Bridewealth and Origins One common claim says the larger the plate, the higher the bridewealth. The reviewed evidence does not support that as a simple fact. Mursi Online states that many marriages and bridewealth arrangements are already settled before a girl’s lip is cut. LaTosky also notes that David Turton rejected a direct link between plate size and bridewealth, although she leaves room for the possibility that a beautifully stretched lip could influence marriage negotiations indirectly in some cases (LaTosky, 2006, pp. 385–386). Read our detailed article on How a suri Boy gets a wife Another common claim says lip plates began as deliberate disfigurement to make women unattractive to slave raiders. Mursi Online rejects this explanation, noting that Mursi themselves do not give this origin story and that lip plates are not unique to Africa or to women. The safest wording is this: the reviewed sources do not support the slave-raider origin story, and they do not support a simple bridewealth-size formula. Modern Pressures and Tourism Lip plates are now part of a wider conversation about tourism, identity, and outside judgment. Mursi Online notes that the lip plate has become a visible marker attracting tourists. A 2024 review of intentional dental modifications in African populations also summarizes Turton’s point that lip plates are now used in tourism contexts by Mursi and Surma women ( Kgabi, Manica & Pandey, 2024 ). This modern context matters. The lip plate is not only a tradition preserved unchanged outside history. It is also shaped by photography, tourism, government pressure, local choice, and changing ideas of respectability and identity. Conclusion The Suri lip plate is made possible by time. The process begins around puberty, most clearly documented around age 15 or 16, when the lower lip is cut and held open with a wooden plug. After healing, larger plugs are inserted little by little. Over months, and sometimes about a year, the lip stretches enough to hold a clay or wooden plate. The practice is not just a physical alteration. In the strongest available research, it is linked to womanhood, maturity, beauty, public presentation, and identity. But it should be described with care. Suri, Chai, Tirma, and Mursi evidence overlaps, but they are not always the same. Some details, especially the exact age of lower-incisor removal, remain unsupported by the reviewed sources. Reference: Mursi Online : Lip-plates LaTosky’s academic essay on Mursi lip plates Smith, Meaghan E. Noun Modification in Suri Narrative Texts. MA thesis, Graduate Institute of Applied Linguistics, 2018 pdf. Abbink (1995, pp. 2, 7pdf) informed Suri agropastoral context and plant-based aftercare for lip-piercing wounds ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles African Culture Disability-Selective Infanticide: The Hidden History in Maasailand Field evidence exposes a history of killing, abandonment and neglect and the Maasai resisting it . African Culture Zee Nxumalo Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs & Amapiano Rise Meet Zee Nxumalo: her age, real name, songs, awards and journey from viral covers to amapiano stardom. . African Culture Wendy Shay Biography: Age, Nursing Career, Songs & AFRIMA Win Discover Wendy Shay’s age, Ghana-Germany story, nursing career, albums, songs and awards. . African Culture Vinka Biography: Real Name, Songs, Family & Music Career Discover Vinka’s real name, family, hit songs, awards and journey from dancer to Ugandan star. . Tags African culture African culture Ethiopia Ethiopia The Suri People The Suri People

New Director Executive Support job at City of Johannesburg. Provide strategic MMC advice and lead executive support functions. Apply by 2 July 2025. Employer: City of Johannesburg Location: Braamfontein, Johannesburg Contract: Fixed-Term Performance-Based (Linked to Political Term) Closing Date: Wednesday, 2 July 2025 💡 About This Role The City of Johannesburg is seeking a Director: Executive Support to provide strategic and political advice to the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC), manage executive communications, and lead a multidisciplinary team to implement political programmes effectively. 🎓 Qualifications & Experience ✔️ Matric/Grade 12 Certificate ✔️ Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, or relevant field (NQF Level 7) Continue Reading Full Article JOB & OPPORTUNITY New Job Opportunity: Director – Executive Support (POEM) By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Jun 28, 2025 Aug 23, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Employer: City of Johannesburg Location: Braamfontein, Johannesburg Contract: Fixed-Term Performance-Based (Linked to Political Term) Closing Date: Wednesday, 2 July 2025 💡 About This Role The City of Johannesburg is seeking a Director: Executive Support to provide strategic and political advice to the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC), manage executive communications, and lead a multidisciplinary team to implement political programmes effectively. 🎓 Qualifications & Experience ✔️ Matric/Grade 12 Certificate ADVERTISEMENT ✔️ Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, or relevant field (NQF Level 7) ✔️ Minimum 10 years’ total experience, with at least 5 years in middle management ✔️ Proven track record in providing strategic support to executives at a similar level ✔️ Strong leadership and supervisory skills, managing diverse service functions 🛠️ Required Skills Strategic management and administrative support expertise Deep knowledge of South African government legislation, policies, and procedures Strong budget management skills aligned with the MFMA Excellent interpersonal, communication, and negotiation abilities Ability to prepare detailed documents and briefing notes on complex issues 📌 Key Responsibilities Provide high-level strategic and political advice to the MMC Lead the implementation of the Executive Mayor’s communication strategy within the MMC office Manage personnel performance and utilisation within the MMC support function Direct budget planning and control for operational efficiency Drive processes to support effective MMC operations Manage and lead projects and staff to execute the MMC’s government blueprint 🙌 Employment Equity The City of Johannesburg is an equal opportunity employer. Preference will be given to previously disadvantaged groups including people with disabilities in line with their Employment Equity Plan. ADVERTISEMENT 📧 How to Apply 👉 Apply online: City of Johannesburg Application Link ✅ Application Checklist ✔️ Certified qualifications and certificates ✔️ Certified ID copy ✔️ Detailed CV ✔️ Proof of professional memberships if applicable 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 How to Register for DDD Webinars Online in South Africa . How to Apply Online for Building Plans and Land Use in Cape Town . Job & Opportunity Apply for New Job: Group Finance Vacancies, City of Johannesburg . Job & Opportunity Apply for Operational Manager Clinics–Johannesburg Health Vacancy . Job & Opportunity New Job Opportunity: Director – Executive Support (POEM) . ADVERTISEMENT 🗓️ Deadline: Wednesday, 2 July 2025If you do not hear back within six (6) weeks after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful. 🔗 Why This Job Matters This role is critical in shaping effective governance and strategic policy delivery within the City of Johannesburg, ensuring efficient implementation of programmes aligned with South Africa’s development goals. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles How to Register for DDD Webinars Online in South Africa Learn how to register for DDD webinars online in South Africa. Step-by-step e-service guide . How to Apply Online for Building Plans and Land Use in Cape Town Learn how to register and apply for building plans on Cape Town's e-Service . Job & Opportunity Apply for New Job: Group Finance Vacancies, City of Johannesburg Explore new Group Finance vacancies at the City of Johannesburg. Apply online . Job & Opportunity Apply for Operational Manager Clinics–Johannesburg Health Vacancy New Job Opportunity: Operational Manager – Clinics (Health Department, Johannesburg) . Tags Gov Services Gov Services Vacancies in South Africa Vacancies in South Africa opportunity opportunity

The UK government has announced its intention to start deporting asylum seekers to Rwanda on July 23, 2024, as revealed by court documents on Monday. This controversial plan hinges on the Conservative Party, led by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, winning the upcoming election. Despite being one of Sunak's key policies, the plan has faced numerous legal and parliamentary challenges, preventing its implementation thus far. Sunak recently indicated that deportation flights would not commence before the election on July 4. However, he assured that if the Conservatives win, the flights would begin shortly thereafter. Currently, the Conservative Party trails the opposition Labour Party by approximately 20 points in opinion polls, and Labour has pledged to abandon the deportation scheme if it comes to power. In documents submitted to the London High Court as part of a legal challenge by a charity, government lawyers stated the plan to "effect removals with a flight to Rwanda on 23 July 2024 (and not before)." Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Jun 3, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Prime Minister Rishi Sunak The UK government has announced its intention to start deporting asylum seekers to Rwanda on July 23, 2024, as revealed by court documents on Monday. This controversial plan hinges on the Conservative Party, led by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, winning the upcoming election. ADVERTISEMENT Despite being one of Sunak's key policies, the plan has faced numerous legal and parliamentary challenges, preventing its implementation thus far. ADVERTISEMENT Sunak recently indicated that deportation flights would not commence before the election on July 4. However, he assured that if the Conservatives win, the flights would begin shortly thereafter. Currently, the Conservative Party trails the opposition Labour Party by approximately 20 points in opinion polls, and Labour has pledged to abandon the deportation scheme if it comes to power. In documents submitted to the London High Court as part of a legal challenge by a charity, government lawyers stated the plan to "effect removals with a flight to Rwanda on 23 July 2024 (and not before)." 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

Mpumalanga International Food Market is trading. What farmers and buyers should check, what the project cost and which employment figures are forecasts. MBOMBELA — The Mpumalanga International Food Market has moved into active trading, with the provincial government confirming on 27 October that farmers were delivering produce and sales activity was underway. The practical question now is whether producers can secure repeat business at prices that cover their costs. An operating market creates a route to customers; it does not guarantee that every delivery will sell. What has changed at Mpumalanga International Food Market? The province has confirmed that trading and farmer deliveries have started. Farmers should arrange acceptance and buyer interest before transporting produce. Buyers should confirm registration and payment conditions, while the market’s larger employment ambitions remain forecasts rather than jobs already delivered. News Snapshot Trading has started; a ceremony is a separate milestone The provincial announcement provides evidence of activity beyond an opening promise. It also describes a presidential visit as forthcoming. That planned ceremony should not be confused with the start of commerce. The facility is on Lydenburg Road, the R37, in Mbombela’s Boschrand area, according to a national government site-visit notice . The opening follows a documented setback. In its July 2025 postponement statement , the province said market-specific municipal bylaws were still being formally adopted and an occupancy certificate was being finalised. Those were the reasons given then; they should not be reported as unresolved today without fresh evidence. Before a farmer sends produce Continue Reading Full Article AGRICULTURE Mpumalanga Food Market opens: farmer and buyer guide By Kamau Bahati Entertainment Editor Kamau Bahati Home Comment Oct 30, 2026 Oct 30, 2026 5 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: MBOMBELA — The Mpumalanga International Food Market has moved into active trading, with the provincial government confirming on 27 October that farmers were delivering produce and sales activity was underway. The practical question now is whether producers can secure repeat business at prices that cover their costs. An operating market creates a route to customers; it does not guarantee that every delivery will sell. What has changed at Mpumalanga International Food Market? The province has confirmed that trading and farmer deliveries have started. Farmers should arrange acceptance and buyer interest before transporting produce. Buyers should confirm registration and payment conditions, while the market’s larger employment ambitions remain forecasts rather than jobs already delivered. News Snapshot Trading has started; a ceremony is a separate milestone The provincial announcement provides evidence of activity beyond an opening promise. It also describes a presidential visit as forthcoming. That planned ceremony should not be confused with the start of commerce. The facility is on Lydenburg Road, the R37, in Mbombela’s Boschrand area, according to a national government site-visit notice . ADVERTISEMENT The opening follows a documented setback. In its July 2025 postponement statement , the province said market-specific municipal bylaws were still being formally adopted and an occupancy certificate was being finalised. Those were the reasons given then; they should not be reported as unresolved today without fresh evidence. Before a farmer sends produce The operator’s October launch roadmap explicitly favoured deliveries where an agency had identified buyers, to reduce the risk of farmer losses. That is a useful starting point for producers considering the new outlet. Before arranging transport, ask the receiving agent: Which products, grades, packaging and quantities are being accepted? Is there a confirmed buyer, or will produce be offered for sale on arrival? What commission, handling or storage charges apply? When will payment be made, and who bears the cost of unsold or rejected stock? What delivery slot and unloading arrangements have been agreed? These are commercial checks, not a published list of mandatory market documents. Farmers should obtain the applicable terms directly rather than assume that registration amounts to a purchase commitment. The operator named marketing head Paulina Ndlovu as its enquiry contact: 013 591 0880 or paulina@mif.market . Its October delivery times formed part of a phased launch programme. They should not be treated as permanent daily operating hours. ADVERTISEMENT Buyers need to check the complete cost Vutivi’s 29 October report says buyers can register online or at the facility, then activate their registration and collect a buyer card in person. It reports a once-off R50 plus VAT charge deducted from the first deposit. Businesses should confirm that fee and the current payment arrangements with the market before transferring money. Restaurants, retailers and spaza shops should also compare the delivered cost of purchases, including transport and any handling charges, against existing suppliers. The same report identifies farmer Zakhele Mahlangu’s concern as dependable demand, workable prices and the ability of smaller producers to meet purchasing requirements. That is a more useful measure of access than registrations alone. A farmer who registers but cannot afford the delivery frequency or meet a buyer’s specifications has not yet gained dependable income. What the investment and job figures mean The national government valued the project at R2 billion in March 2026. Vutivi subsequently reported that construction began in November 2018 with an initial R1.5 billion budget and that delays and overruns pushed investment above R2 billion. Those figures describe the project’s reported scale. They are not a newly announced loan or a final audited reconciliation. The October operational announcement does not provide a final expenditure account, financing terms or a breakdown of outstanding obligations. 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 The province’s employment figures also require separation: Figure Status in the 27 October announcement 47 direct jobs Reported as already created Approximately 156 direct jobs Expected at full operation 4,033 indirect jobs Projected across related economic activity 1,153 Agrofund-supported SMME jobs Separate programme figure, not market payroll The announcement says recruitment was conducted through the Department of Employment and Labour. It does not establish a fresh application deadline. The next test is sustained business For farmers, the meaningful follow-up will be repeat orders, payment reliability and the share of produce sold rather than discarded. For buyers, it will be dependable supply at competitive total cost. Claims about wider export benefits need their own evidence: actual consignments, destinations, volumes and recurring customers. The word “international” in a facility’s name does not establish export performance. Publishing regular trading volumes, active buyer numbers and payment performance would help demonstrate whether this substantial investment is improving access for smaller producers. The opening establishes a real operational milestone. Its lasting value will depend on the business that follows. 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 Breaking News Breaking News South Africa South Africa

Wicknell Chivayo's biography covers Intratrek, Gwanda solar, IMC, Lucy Muteke, his children and the September 2026 helicopter crash. Wicknell Chivayo, the Zimbabwean businessman known as Sir Wicknell, died with his wife, Lucy Muteke, in a helicopter crash in rural Marondera on 30 September 2026. His family's spokesperson, Herbert Chivayo, confirmed their deaths to ZBC . Chivayo was associated with the energy contractor Intratrek and telecommunications company IMC Communications. His public profile also extended into football sponsorship, gifts to entertainers and journalists, and relationships with political leaders. His business history included both disputed public contracts and court decisions in his favour. Who was Wicknell Chivayo? Wicknell Chivayo was a Zimbabwean businessman known as Sir Wicknell, associated with Intratrek's Gwanda solar contract, IMC Communications and public gifts. He and his wife, Lucy Muteke, died in a helicopter crash on 30 September 2026. His career combined business ventures, sponsorship and legal disputes. Gandami, school and his first work In a 2024 NewsDay interview with Freeman Makopa, reproduced by Zimbabwe Situation , Chivayo said he grew up in Gandami, in the Chivhu area. He named his parents as Canisia Chivayo and Isaac Mathias Chivayo, and said his father died when he was ten. He attended Dudley Hall Primary School and Churchill Boys High School. According to his account, financial difficulties interrupted his education, and he became a wages clerk at a bus company to help his widowed mother. Asked about the principles behind his success, he answered: "Prayer, hard work, discipline and determination." He identified with the Johane Masowe EChishanu apostolic church and described giving as an expression of faith. Intratrek and the Gwanda solar contract Continue Reading Full Article BIOGRAPHY Wicknell Chivayo Biography: Business, Family and Helicopter Crash By Truce Elikia Art & Culture Journalist Truce Elikia Home Comment Oct 1, 2026 Oct 1, 2026 14 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Wicknell Chivayo, the Zimbabwean businessman known as Sir Wicknell, died with his wife, Lucy Muteke, in a helicopter crash in rural Marondera on 30 September 2026. His family's spokesperson, Herbert Chivayo, confirmed their deaths to ZBC . Chivayo was associated with the energy contractor Intratrek and telecommunications company IMC Communications. His public profile also extended into football sponsorship, gifts to entertainers and journalists, and relationships with political leaders. His business history included both disputed public contracts and court decisions in his favour. Who was Wicknell Chivayo? Wicknell Chivayo was a Zimbabwean businessman known as Sir Wicknell, associated with Intratrek's Gwanda solar contract, IMC Communications and public gifts. He and his wife, Lucy Muteke, died in a helicopter crash on 30 September 2026. His career combined business ventures, sponsorship and legal disputes. Gandami, school and his first work In a 2024 NewsDay interview with Freeman Makopa, reproduced by Zimbabwe Situation , Chivayo said he grew up in Gandami, in the Chivhu area. He named his parents as Canisia Chivayo and Isaac Mathias Chivayo, and said his father died when he was ten. He attended Dudley Hall Primary School and Churchill Boys High School. According to his account, financial difficulties interrupted his education, and he became a wages clerk at a bus company to help his widowed mother. Asked about the principles behind his success, he answered: "Prayer, hard work, discipline and determination." He identified with the Johane Masowe EChishanu apostolic church and described giving as an expression of faith. Intratrek and the Gwanda solar contract Chivayo's business career became closely associated with Intratrek Zimbabwe and its contract with Zimbabwe Power Company, or ZPC, for a proposed 100-megawatt solar power station at Gwanda. The Supreme Court judgment in Zimbabwe Power Company v Intratrek Zimbabwe records that the engineering, procurement and construction contract was signed on 23 October 2015. Its original price was approximately US$172.85 million, excluding taxes. The agreement covered more than supplying equipment. It involved construction, financing arrangements and obligations on both sides. Disputes developed over the conditions required for the contract to proceed, preliminary work and the parties' responsibilities. On 1 December 2023, the Supreme Court dismissed ZPC's appeal against an earlier judgment maintaining that the contract remained valid and binding. The order required the contractual relationship to continue; it was not a finding that an operating power station had already been delivered. That distinction is central to the Gwanda story: preserving a contract and completing a generating plant are different milestones. Criminal proceedings and the September 2026 restart Gwanda also produced criminal proceedings involving Chivayo and Intratrek. ZimLive's courtroom report of 13 March 2023 recorded their acquittal in the prosecution concerning advance payments for the project. The Herald's contemporaneous court report, reproduced by Zimbabwe Situation , described the magistrate's finding that prosecution had been unreasonably delayed. The defence had challenged the continued remands, while prosecutors sought additional time. The reporting also recorded Intratrek's position that money received had funded preliminary contractual work. The acquittal concerned criminal liability. The Supreme Court litigation concerned contractual rights and obligations. Neither should be substituted for the other when describing what happened at Gwanda. The project returned to the news shortly before Chivayo's death. On 14 September 2026, ZimLive reported that ZPC had issued a notice to proceed , giving Intratrek 24 months to complete the plant. The report described a renegotiated price below US$132 million and identified CHiNT Electric as the technical partner. ADVERTISEMENT At the time of that report, the project had not generated electricity. The new instruction therefore represented a restart and a construction commitment, not an announcement that Gwanda was already supplying the grid. September 2026 marked an unfinished business chapter. The long-running contract remained part of his record, but its delivery timetable extended beyond his lifetime. IMC Communications and Zimbabwe's internet market Energy was not his only business interest. Chivayo was also associated with IMC Communications, which sought a position in Zimbabwe's telecommunications market. In October 2024, ZimLive reported that IMC had received an internet service provider licence from POTRAZ , Zimbabwe's telecommunications regulator. The report quoted IMC chairman Wilson Manase and described the company's intention to pursue a commercial relationship with Starlink. The licence and the proposed partnership were separate developments: authorisation to operate locally did not, by itself, establish the terms of a completed Starlink reseller agreement. IMC was a Zimbabwean business seeking telecommunications opportunities, not the owner of the satellite network. XTRAfrica's earlier coverage of Zimbabwe's discussions over access to Starlink provides background to the market IMC was entering. For Chivayo, the venture broadened a public business identity already shaped by the Gwanda energy contract. Procurement scrutiny and subsequent official responses Separate from Gwanda, Chivayo's name appeared in controversy surrounding procurement for Zimbabwe's 2023 elections. He denied wrongdoing, and the subsequent official responses are important to that history. In December 2025, ZimLive reported Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission chairman Michael Reza's announcement that the inquiry had been closed . Reza said investigators had found no evidence linking Chivayo or the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission to wrongdoing in the matter examined. The report concerned procurement involving South African supplier Ren-Form. The commission's stated conclusion was an outcome of that particular inquiry, not a blanket assessment of every transaction or dispute associated with Chivayo. Another clarification followed in South Africa. In July 2026, Nehanda Radio reported a Hawks spokesperson's statement that the unit had no such case against Chivayo in its system . News24 apologised for incorrectly reporting that he was under investigation by both the Hawks and the Financial Intelligence Centre. The December 2025 inquiry closure and July 2026 clarification followed earlier accusations, adding official responses to a controversy that had crossed the border between Zimbabwe and South Africa. Public gifts and football sponsorship Chivayo reached audiences far beyond the readers of business and court reporting through gifts announced publicly to individuals and sporting institutions. One example involved veteran ZBC journalist Reuben Barwe. In May 2025, NewZimbabwe reported Chivayo's announcement of a Toyota Land Cruiser and US$100,000 for the broadcaster . He presented the offer as recognition of Barwe's service. Chivayo said the vehicle had been paid for and could be collected from a Harare dealership. The cash, he said, was available through his lawyer. Football support provided another strand of his public activity. In February 2026, ZBC reported his announcement of a US$500,000 disbursement to Highlanders , completing a stated US$1 million sponsorship commitment. Earlier support included a team bus. The Highlanders package was described as supporting recruitment, player welfare and preparations for the Premier Soccer League season. Vehicles were also announced for members of the club's leadership and technical team. The beneficiaries named in ZBC's report included coach Benjani Mwaruwari, chairperson Luke Mnkandla, chief executive Denzil Mnkandla and club legend Madinda Ndlovu. The announcement followed Highlanders' 1-0 victory over Dynamos, linking his support to a specific moment in the club's season preparations. ADVERTISEMENT These examples show why his name appeared in both sports pages and business coverage. However, the value of an announced gift, the amount of sponsorship and a person's net worth measure different things. None can simply be substituted for another. Why ZIFA's president declined personal vehicle gifts Not every publicly announced offer was accepted. In an interview published by the Zimbabwe Football Association , association president Nqobile Magwizi said he had not accepted vehicles or personal financial benefits from Chivayo. Magwizi distinguished support for football from gifts to an official responsible for governing it. He explained that Chivayo's links to clubs overseen by ZIFA raised potential conflicts of interest, and said he had declined both an earlier Land Cruiser offer and a later Range Rover offer. The statement is important because reports announcing a gift can leave readers with the impression that it was received. Here, the intended recipient publicly said otherwise. Chivayo's sponsorship history therefore includes offers, donations and refusals, not one uniform category of completed transfers. In the interview, conducted on 7 May 2026, Magwizi acknowledged Chivayo's sponsorship contributions while encouraging support through clubs, leagues and grassroots programmes. He presented the refusal as a governance decision, rather than a rejection of private financial support for Zimbabwean football. Connections beyond Zimbabwe Chivayo's public relationships extended beyond Zimbabwe . Kenyan reporting documented his meetings with William Ruto before the fatal crash brought further attention to their friendship. A January 2025 Citizen Digital report described visits involving Ruto and Chivayo, accompanied by Lucy Muteke. Those appearances help explain why his death became a Kenyan news story as well as a Zimbabwean one. Following the crash, ZBC reported Ruto's condolences to the families . His tribute referred to Chivayo as a friend and also acknowledged Muteke's death. Citizen Digital described Sir Wicknell as a self-adopted public identity. Photographs of meetings, visits and appearances circulated alongside his business announcements, and his visits received coverage in Kenya as well as in Zimbabwe. In Kenya, the report documented both a visit to Ruto's home and a later appearance at State House Nairobi. His public visibility thus crossed national borders before the condolences of October 2026. Lucy Muteke, his earlier relationship and two children At the time of his death, Chivayo was married to Lucy Muteke, whom his family identified as his wife when confirming the crash. She died in the same incident. He also had two children from his earlier relationship with Sonja Madzikanda. Their parenting and financial arrangements became the subject of court proceedings. TRT Afrika's reporting on the family case described a customary marriage dating from 2017 and the couple's subsequent separation. By April 2026, the court proceedings addressed arrangements for their children as well as separate financial disputes. ZimLive reported that a High Court consent order dated 2 April 2026 settled parenting and maintenance arrangements. The report distinguished those provisions from separate property and dissolution proceedings. The consent order recorded an agreed US$5 million maintenance provision. Part of that sum had already been invested for the children, with the balance to follow under the arrangement. Both parents retained parental responsibilities and rights, while the children's primary residence was with their mother. These were provisions of a court-approved agreement, distinct from the competing claims concerning the adults' property. Jah Prayzah's tribute and postponed celebration The response from musician Jah Prayzah illustrated Chivayo's personal connections within Zimbabwean entertainment. On 1 October, NewZimbabwe reported that Jah Prayzah and Rufaro Mukombe had postponed their wedding celebration , which had been scheduled for 3 October. In the statement reported by the publication, the couple described Chivayo as someone they regarded as family and said they needed time to grieve. Their condolences also included Lucy Muteke and the other families affected by the crash. Trending Now Dr Victor Kingombe Biography: Kisangani Doctor Lost to Ebola . Biography Sandton Threat Video: Executive Fired as Police Investigate . Justice & Crime Brian Kagoro Biography: Zimbabwean Lawyer and Pan-African Activist . Biography Zimbabwe Commissioner Martin Muduva and Wife Die . African Politics Popular Today Biography Wicknell Chivayo Biography: Business, Family and Helicopter Crash . Biography Dr Victor Kingombe Biography: Kisangani Doctor Lost to Ebola . Justice & Crime Sandton Threat Video: Executive Fired as Police Investigate . Biography Brian Kagoro Biography: Zimbabwean Lawyer and Pan-African Activist . African Politics Zimbabwe Commissioner Martin Muduva and Wife Die . ADVERTISEMENT Chivayo had supported the musician through gifts and had been involved in plans for the celebration. The postponement showed how his death interrupted relationships and events beyond his companies. For the Mukombes, the immediate response was to put the celebration aside rather than proceed with it during mourning. The Marondera crash and investigation The helicopter came down in rural Marondera on the evening of 30 September. The Associated Press reported the fatal crash and the government's statement that there were no survivors . On 1 October, Reuters reported President Emmerson Mnangagwa's confirmation that Chivayo and his wife had died . Reuters also noted that police had earlier said they were awaiting DNA testing before formally confirming victims' identities. Presidential and family statements should therefore be distinguished from the forensic identification process. The same day, ZBC reported that the Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe had recovered an intact black box . Director-general George Mashababe said preliminary findings indicated that fuel spilled on impact and a fire followed. The authority had not established why the helicopter crashed. Its account of the impact and fire did not determine what caused the aircraft to come down. The recovery of recording equipment was an investigative development, not a completed explanation of the accident. Wicknell Chivayo's life and career timeline Year Event Significance 2015 Intratrek signed the Gwanda solar contract with ZPC Established the energy project central to his business profile 2017 Customary marriage to Sonja Madzikanda Part of the family history later described in court reporting 2023 Acquittal in the Gwanda prosecution; Supreme Court upheld the contract Separate criminal and civil outcomes shaped the project's future 2024 IMC received an internet service provider licence Extended his business interests into telecommunications 2025 ZACC announced closure of its election-procurement inquiry Added a dated official outcome to earlier allegations 2026 Highlanders sponsorship announcement and renewed Gwanda instruction Continued sporting support and an unfinished construction commitment 2026 Died with Lucy Muteke in the 30 September helicopter crash Prompted family confirmation, tributes and an aviation investigation Wicknell Chivayo FAQs What was Wicknell Chivayo's full name? He identified himself as Wicknell Munodaani Chivayo in his 2024 NewsDay interview. Sir Wicknell was the name commonly used in his public life. How old was Wicknell Chivayo when he died? In that interview, he gave his birth date as 22 November 1982. On that account, he was 43 when he died on 30 September 2026. Which businesses was he associated with? His documented business interests included Intratrek Zimbabwe, associated with the Gwanda solar contract, and IMC Communications, which obtained a Zimbabwean internet service provider licence. Did the Gwanda court judgment mean the solar plant was finished? No. The civil judgment upheld the contract, not completion of an operating plant. The September 2026 report described a notice to proceed and a 24-month completion period. Was he convicted in the Gwanda prosecution? The March 2023 court reports recorded Chivayo and Intratrek's acquittal. That criminal proceeding was separate from the civil dispute over the project's contract. Who was his wife? His family identified Lucy Muteke as his wife when announcing their deaths. She was aboard the helicopter that crashed in Marondera. Did he have children? Yes. Court reporting documented two children from his earlier relationship with Sonja Madzikanda. The April 2026 consent order addressed their parenting and maintenance arrangements. What caused the helicopter crash? The aviation authority had not established the cause as of 1 October 2026. Recovery of an intact black box was confirmed, but a final accident finding had not been announced. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography Dr Victor Kingombe Biography: Kisangani Doctor Lost to Ebola The verified life and legacy of the Kisangani doctor who died during the 2026 Ebola outbreak. . Justice & Crime Sandton Threat Video: Executive Fired as Police Investigate A viral restaurant confrontation has triggered an apology, dismissal and official probes. . 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In an era where the global demand for tech talent is soaring, Africa is poised to become a major player in the digital economy. Statistics highlight a significant gap in the tech workforce, with millions of jobs requiring digital skills in the coming years. This scenario presents a unique opportunity for Africa's homegrown talents, particularly in nations like Nigeria and Kenya, projected to lead in digital skill requirements by 2030. Jumia Nigeria, a pioneer in Africa's digital landscape, has distinguished itself by focusing on local talent development. Through initiatives aimed at nurturing and empowering tech professionals, Jumia is shaping a new narrative for Africa's tech ecosystem. The company's commitment to investing in local talent has catalyzed innovation and fostered a thriving digital economy. Success stories from Jumia, like Ayoola's transition to an Android engineer and Samson Ogberawhe's evolution as a software engineer, exemplify the transformative impact of such initiatives. Their experiences, from mastering global collaboration tools to enhancing technical and problem-solving skills, underscore the value of nurturing local talent for global competitiveness. Jumia's model demonstrates the untapped potential within Africa's tech sector. By prioritizing local talent and providing opportunities for growth and innovation, Jumia is not just building a business but championing the rise of Africa's digital economy. This approach offers valuable insights for other companies and stakeholders looking to harness Africa's tech talent. As Africa continues to make strides in the tech industry, the focus on developing homegrown talent will be crucial. The journey of talents like Ayoola and Samson serves as an inspiration and a blueprint for nurturing the next generation of African tech innovators. With the right support and opportunities, Africa's tech talents are well-positioned to lead the digital revolution, shaping the future of technology both on the continent and beyond. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Mar 14, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Jumia Nigeria, a pioneer in Africa's digital landscape, has distinguished itself by focusing on local talent development In an era where the global demand for tech talent is soaring, Africa is poised to become a major player in the digital economy. Statistics highlight a significant gap in the tech workforce, with millions of jobs requiring digital skills in the coming years. This scenario presents a unique opportunity for Africa's homegrown talents, particularly in nations like Nigeria and Kenya, projected to lead in digital skill requirements by 2030. Jumia Nigeria, a pioneer in Africa's digital landscape, has distinguished itself by focusing on local talent development. Through initiatives aimed at nurturing and empowering tech professionals, Jumia is shaping a new narrative for Africa's tech ecosystem. The company's commitment to investing in local talent has catalyzed innovation and fostered a thriving digital economy. ADVERTISEMENT Success stories from Jumia, like Ayoola's transition to an Android engineer and Samson Ogberawhe's evolution as a software engineer, exemplify the transformative impact of such initiatives. Their experiences, from mastering global collaboration tools to enhancing technical and problem-solving skills, underscore the value of nurturing local talent for global competitiveness. ADVERTISEMENT Jumia's model demonstrates the untapped potential within Africa's tech sector. By prioritizing local talent and providing opportunities for growth and innovation, Jumia is not just building a business but championing the rise of Africa's digital economy. This approach offers valuable insights for other companies and stakeholders looking to harness Africa's tech talent. As Africa continues to make strides in the tech industry, the focus on developing homegrown talent will be crucial. The journey of talents like Ayoola and Samson serves as an inspiration and a blueprint for nurturing the next generation of African tech innovators. With the right support and opportunities, Africa's tech talents are well-positioned to lead the digital revolution, shaping the future of technology both on the continent and beyond. 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

Clashes near Goma in North Kivu spotlight renewed instability in eastern DRC and the broader regional security stakes. Fresh fighting reported near Goma in North Kivu has renewed concerns over security in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo , with clashes said to have broken out around Virunga National Park near Rusayo in Nyiragongo territory. Local reports said residents in parts of Goma heard heavy and light weapon fire on Sunday, and some chose to remain indoors as uncertainty spread . According to the main report, the fighting involved Wazalendo fighters and rebels from the Congo River Alliance, or AFC, affiliated with the Rwanda-backed M23 movement. The reported combat zone lies in a highly sensitive corridor near Goma, a city whose security has repeatedly been affected by front-line shifts in North Kivu. Beyond the immediate security alert , the latest clashes reinforce the wider strategic weight of the Goma-Virunga axis in the eastern DRC conflict. The area sits close to a major urban centre, near key population routes, and inside a broader theatre where M23 activity, militia mobilisation, and cross-border tensions continue to shape regional stability . Recent international reporting has also underlined that the M23 conflict remains tied to wider diplomatic and security pressure on Rwanda and the region. While no verified casualty toll was immediately available from the report, the renewed gunfire around Goma is likely to deepen anxiety in a province already marked by repeated displacement, armed group activity, and fragile civilian protection. That makes each new clash around the city more than a local incident; it is also a signal of how exposed eastern DRC remains to recurring instability. DRC PEACE EFFORT Fresh clashes reported near Goma following the death of willy ngoma By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Mar 9, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Fresh fighting reported near Goma in North Kivu has renewed concerns over security in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo , with clashes said to have broken out around Virunga National Park near Rusayo in Nyiragongo territory. Local reports said residents in parts of Goma heard heavy and light weapon fire on Sunday, and some chose to remain indoors as uncertainty spread . ADVERTISEMENT According to the main report, the fighting involved Wazalendo fighters and rebels from the Congo River Alliance, or AFC, affiliated with the Rwanda-backed M23 movement. The reported combat zone lies in a highly sensitive corridor near Goma, a city whose security has repeatedly been affected by front-line shifts in North Kivu. Beyond the immediate security alert , the latest clashes reinforce the wider strategic weight of the Goma-Virunga axis in the eastern DRC conflict. The area sits close to a major urban centre, near key population routes, and inside a broader theatre where M23 activity, militia mobilisation, and cross-border tensions continue to shape regional stability . ADVERTISEMENT Recent international reporting has also underlined that the M23 conflict remains tied to wider diplomatic and security pressure on Rwanda and the region. While no verified casualty toll was immediately available from the report, the renewed gunfire around Goma is likely to deepen anxiety in a province already marked by repeated displacement, armed group activity, and fragile civilian protection. That makes each new clash around the city more than a local incident; it is also a signal of how exposed eastern DRC remains to recurring instability. 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Britain’s $26.8M aid package supports Congo’s Ebola response as cases rise in eastern provinces. Britain has announced £20 million ($26.8 million) in emergency support for the Democratic Republic of Congo ’s Ebola response, according to 7sur7.cd . The funding was confirmed after British Minister of State for International Development and Africa Jenny Chapman met President Félix Tshisekedi in Kinshasa. The aid comes as Congo faces its 17th Ebola outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo strain. Congolese health authorities have reported confirmed and suspected cases across eastern provinces, including North Kivu, Ituri and South Kivu. The timing is significant because health teams are trying to contain the virus in areas already affected by insecurity, displacement and pressure on local health systems. The World Health Organization says the Bundibugyo outbreak is unfolding in a difficult humanitarian and security context, with no approved vaccine or specific treatment currently available for this strain. Britain’s package is expected to support frontline response work, including surveillance, infection prevention, treatment support and community engagement. The UK government said the funding is intended to help stop the spread of Ebola in eastern Congo and protect affected communities. The announcement also comes amid wider international mobilisation. The United States has committed support for regional preparedness, while Kenya has faced public and legal scrutiny over a proposed Ebola-related quarantine arrangement linked to exposed Americans, according to reports . For Congo, the new British funding adds to the government’s own emergency spending, which officials say includes $20 million already disbursed to strengthen the national response. The outbreak remains a regional concern because eastern Congo is closely connected to neighbouring countries through trade, displacement and cross-border movement. That makes rapid detection, community trust and coordinated public health action central to limiting further spread. Continue Reading Full Article PUBLIC HEALTH ALERTS WHY Britain’s $26.8M Ebola Aid Comes at a Critical Time for Congo By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment May 29, 2026 May 29, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Britain has announced £20 million ($26.8 million) in emergency support for the Democratic Republic of Congo ’s Ebola response, according to 7sur7.cd . The funding was confirmed after British Minister of State for International Development and Africa Jenny Chapman met President Félix Tshisekedi in Kinshasa. The aid comes as Congo faces its 17th Ebola outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo strain. Congolese health authorities have reported confirmed and suspected cases across eastern provinces, including North Kivu, Ituri and South Kivu. ADVERTISEMENT The timing is significant because health teams are trying to contain the virus in areas already affected by insecurity, displacement and pressure on local health systems. The World Health Organization says the Bundibugyo outbreak is unfolding in a difficult humanitarian and security context, with no approved vaccine or specific treatment currently available for this strain. Britain’s package is expected to support frontline response work, including surveillance, infection prevention, treatment support and community engagement. The UK government said the funding is intended to help stop the spread of Ebola in eastern Congo and protect affected communities. ADVERTISEMENT The announcement also comes amid wider international mobilisation. The United States has committed support for regional preparedness, while Kenya has faced public and legal scrutiny over a proposed Ebola-related quarantine arrangement linked to exposed Americans, according to reports . For Congo, the new British funding adds to the government’s own emergency spending, which officials say includes $20 million already disbursed to strengthen the national response. Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today Health News Uganda HIV Self-Test Assembly: Prices, Jobs and Exports . Banking and Finance Absa Dubai Office: Services, Eligibility and Contacts . Business & Investment 5 Best Citizenship by Investment Programs for Africans . Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply . Scholarships UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans . ADVERTISEMENT The outbreak remains a regional concern because eastern Congo is closely connected to neighbouring countries through trade, displacement and cross-border movement. That makes rapid detection, community trust and coordinated public health action central to limiting further spread. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Health News Uganda HIV Self-Test Assembly: Prices, Jobs and Exports Mukono factory assembles OraQuick kits, but the UGX 7,000 price remains a target . Banking and Finance Absa Dubai Office: Services, Eligibility and Contacts What African businesses and Gulf investors need to know about Absa’s new DIFC office. . Business & Investment 5 Best Citizenship by Investment Programs for Africans Compare five Caribbean second-passport programs, their investment costs, family benefits.... . 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The African National Congress (ANC) announced that South Africa's new unity government now includes five parties, representing over two-thirds of the National Assembly's 400 seats. Following last month's election, the ANC, for the first time since the end of apartheid in 1994, failed to secure a parliamentary majority and had to form alliances. Key Points: Cyril Ramaphosa Re-elected: ANC leader Cyril Ramaphosa was re-elected as President by parliament, with the support of the Democratic Alliance (DA), Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), and the Patriotic Alliance (PA). New Addition: GOOD party has joined the unity government, bringing the total representation to 273 seats (68% of the National Assembly). Parliament Seat Distribution: ANC: 159 seats DA: 87 seats IFP: 17 seats PA: 9 seats GOOD: 1 seat Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Jun 18, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The African National Congress (ANC) announced that South Africa's new unity government now includes five parties, representing over two-thirds of the National Assembly's 400 seats. Following last month's election, the ANC, for the first time since the end of apartheid in 1994, failed to secure a parliamentary majority and had to form alliances. Key Points: Cyril Ramaphosa Re-elected: ANC leader Cyril Ramaphosa was re-elected as President by parliament, with the support of the Democratic Alliance (DA), Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), and the Patriotic Alliance (PA). New Addition: GOOD party has joined the unity government, bringing the total representation to 273 seats (68% of the National Assembly). Parliament Seat Distribution: ANC: 159 seats DA: 87 seats IFP: 17 seats PA: 9 seats GOOD: 1 seat Unity Government Priorities: The government aims to focus on rapid, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, capital investment, job creation, land reform, and infrastructure development. Decisions will be made by consensus among the participating parties. ADVERTISEMENT Opposition and Exclusions: The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) with 39 seats and the uMkhonto we Sizwe party, led by former President Jacob Zuma with 58 seats, are not part of the unity government. They have formed the "Progressive Caucus" along with other smaller opposition parties. The EFF opposes joining any government that includes the DA or the Freedom Front Plus. Economic Outlook: HSBC economist David Faulkner suggests the unity government might pave the way for growth-friendly reforms and prudent economic policies but warns of potential ideological conflicts within the coalition. South Africa's political landscape is witnessing a significant shift with the formation of a broad coalition government, aiming to address key economic and social issues while navigating internal and external challenges. ADVERTISEMENT Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tags

Around 3,500 children live on Lubumbashi’s streets without family ties. Activists urge Haut‑Katanga to provide shelters, care and police support. Nearly 3,500 children with no family ties are now living on the streets of Lubumbashi, the provincial capital of Haut‑Katanga, according to young activists who submitted a memorandum to the governor’s office. The memorandum describes precarious living conditions for these children and calls for urgent government action; Radio Okapi first reported the appeal. The activists urge the provincial government to build more shelters and ensure that street children receive social support and access to medical care. They also recommend involving police in managing the issue through arrest, deterrence and persuasion. In their view, the growing number of children living on the streets is a driver of aggression, theft and threats against citizens. Their proposals are based on a three‑year study conducted with the Provincial Gender Division and UNICEF, which identified nearly 3,500 affected children. The call for action comes as authorities have been trying to register and reintegrate street children; last April, provincial ministers launched “Ndobo,” an operation to identify children living without their families and orient them toward appropriate shelters. Police rounded up children in Lubumbashi, and officials assured them that the aim was to provide care. Many children were taken to the Lukuni centre about 50 km from the city, but officials admit that some run away and return to the streets. Broader efforts show that child protection in the Democratic Republic of Congo requires sustained investment. In Kinshasa, for example, MONUSCO’s child protection section recently rehabilitated a shelter for children without family support, adding rooms, showers, a kitchen and a dining area. During the handover ceremony, MONUSCO officials stressed that safeguarding children is a collective responsibility and that a country’s future rests on its youth. Within Haut‑Katanga, hundreds of suspected juvenile delinquents from Lubumbashi were transferred to the National Service in Kanyama Kasese for vocational training, underscoring the authorities’ attempts to rehabilitate vulnerable youth. As the number of street children rises, pressure is mounting on the Haut‑Katanga government to coordinate with community organisations, police and international partners to provide safe shelter, education and social reintegration. The memorandum submitted by youth activists has brought renewed attention to urban child vulnerability and the need for long‑term solutions Continue Reading Full Article PUBLIC HEALTH ALERTS Haut‑Katanga faces pressure to address urban child vulnerability By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Feb 9, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Nearly 3,500 children with no family ties are now living on the streets of Lubumbashi, the provincial capital of Haut‑Katanga, according to young activists who submitted a memorandum to the governor’s office. The memorandum describes precarious living conditions for these children and calls for urgent government action; Radio Okapi first reported the appeal. The activists urge the provincial government to build more shelters and ensure that street children receive social support and access to medical care. They also recommend involving police in managing the issue through arrest, deterrence and persuasion. In their view, the growing number of children living on the streets is a driver of aggression, theft and threats against citizens. ADVERTISEMENT Their proposals are based on a three‑year study conducted with the Provincial Gender Division and UNICEF, which identified nearly 3,500 affected children. The call for action comes as authorities have been trying to register and reintegrate street children; last April, provincial ministers launched “Ndobo,” an operation to identify children living without their families and orient them toward appropriate shelters. Police rounded up children in Lubumbashi, and officials assured them that the aim was to provide care. Many children were taken to the Lukuni centre about 50 km from the city, but officials admit that some run away and return to the streets. ADVERTISEMENT Broader efforts show that child protection in the Democratic Republic of Congo requires sustained investment. In Kinshasa, for example, MONUSCO’s child protection section recently rehabilitated a shelter for children without family support, adding rooms, showers, a kitchen and a dining area. During the handover ceremony, MONUSCO officials stressed that safeguarding children is a collective responsibility and that a country’s future rests on its youth. Within Haut‑Katanga, hundreds of suspected juvenile delinquents from Lubumbashi were transferred to the National Service in Kanyama Kasese for vocational training, underscoring the authorities’ attempts to rehabilitate vulnerable youth. 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 As the number of street children rises, pressure is mounting on the Haut‑Katanga government to coordinate with community organisations, police and international partners to provide safe shelter, education and social reintegration. The memorandum submitted by youth activists has brought renewed attention to urban child vulnerability and the need for long‑term solutions 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 . 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Otto Addo is set to return as the head coach of Ghana's men's national soccer team, with Borussia Dortmund agreeing to release him from his talent development role after this season. Previously leading the team in 2022, including their World Cup appearance, Addo will now have a 34-month contract, potentially extendable by two years, to guide the team through major tournaments like the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2026 World Cup, according to an announcement by the Ghana Football Association. Otto Addo feels privileged and honored to lead Ghana's national soccer team again, valuing his interim experience and looking forward to future challenges. His notable tenure at Dortmund, where he helped develop talents like Haaland and Sancho, is acknowledged by Dortmund's agreement to release him for Ghana's upcoming matches, reflecting recognition of his contributions and support for his national commitment. Otto Addo's illustrious career, marked by achievements both as a player, including a Bundesliga win with Dortmund and a 2006 World Cup appearance for Ghana, and as a coach, sets a promising foundation for his tenure as Ghana's head coach. His comprehensive experience and vision are expected to drive the national team's success in upcoming international tournaments. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Mar 16, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Otto Addo, with his wealth of experience and expertise, prepares to take on a new challenge as the head coach of Ghana's national soccer team. @citisportsonline Otto Addo is set to return as the head coach of Ghana's men's national soccer team, with Borussia Dortmund agreeing to release him from his talent development role after this season. Previously leading the team in 2022, including their World Cup appearance, Addo will now have a 34-month contract, potentially extendable by two years, to guide the team through major tournaments like the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2026 World Cup, according to an announcement by the Ghana Football Association. Otto Addo feels privileged and honored to lead Ghana's national soccer team again, valuing his interim experience and looking forward to future challenges. His notable tenure at Dortmund, where he helped develop talents like Haaland and Sancho, is acknowledged by Dortmund's agreement to release him for Ghana's upcoming matches, reflecting recognition of his contributions and support for his national commitment. ADVERTISEMENT Otto Addo in action on the field, showcasing the skills that have informed his coaching philosophy and led to his appointment as Ghana's head coach. Image/goal.comUS Otto Addo's illustrious career, marked by achievements both as a player, including a Bundesliga win with Dortmund and a 2006 World Cup appearance for Ghana, and as a coach, sets a promising foundation for his tenure as Ghana's head coach. His comprehensive experience and vision are expected to drive the national team's success in upcoming international tournaments. ADVERTISEMENT Trending Now US Democrats' Rwanda Record: Peaceful Change and Congo Sovereignty . Policy and Reforms Tanzania Community Grants: Who Benefits and What Comes Next . Government Announcements Ghana–Canada Seafarer Deal Does Not Guarantee Jobs . Job & Opportunity South Africa Elections 2026: DA Leads Gauteng as Count Advances . Elections Monitoring Popular Today ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tags

Anthony Joshua tattoos names of two friends who died in a December 2025 Ogun crash. The boxer survived the accident. British-Nigerian heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua has tattooed the names of two close associates who died in a road accident in Ogun State. Joshua honoured Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele months after they were killed in a crash along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on December 29, 2025. The tribute was revealed by London-based Fulham Tattoo, which shared images of the artwork on Instagram on February 13, 2026. The studio said the former two-time world heavyweight champion visited unannounced for his first session. In a post, Fulham Tattoo thanked Joshua for “unexpectedly and unannounced walking through the door” for his appointment. Ghami served as Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach, while Ayodele was one of his trainers. The two men died after the vehicle they were travelling in collided with a stationary truck. Joshua, who was also in the car at the time, survived the crash. He was treated in hospital and later discharged before returning to the United Kingdom. The tattoos mark a personal tribute from the boxer as he continues to mourn members of his training team. Source: The Sun Nigeria Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Anthony Joshua Tattoos Names of Friends Lost in Crash By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Feb 13, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: British-Nigerian heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua has tattooed the names of two close associates who died in a road accident in Ogun State. Joshua honoured Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele months after they were killed in a crash along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on December 29, 2025. ADVERTISEMENT The tribute was revealed by London-based Fulham Tattoo, which shared images of the artwork on Instagram on February 13, 2026. The studio said the former two-time world heavyweight champion visited unannounced for his first session. In a post, Fulham Tattoo thanked Joshua for “unexpectedly and unannounced walking through the door” for his appointment. ADVERTISEMENT Ghami served as Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach, while Ayodele was one of his trainers. The two men died after the vehicle they were travelling in collided with a stationary truck. Joshua, who was also in the car at the time, survived the crash. He was treated in hospital and later discharged before returning to the United Kingdom. The tattoos mark a personal tribute from the boxer as he continues to mourn members of his training team. 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 U.K U.K