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Published: March 9, 2024 at 11:48:01 AM Modified: March 9, 2024 at 11:52:56 AM Ethiopia Advances Green Legacy Initiative with Massive Nile Basin Reforestation Plan Addis Ababa, Ethiopia - In a significant stride towards environmental conservation, Ethiopia's Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) has announced an ambitious plan to plant 6.5 billion saplings during the upcoming rainy season. This initiative forms a part of the country's broader Green Legacy Initiative aimed at bolstering the ecological integrity of the Nile Basin and supporting sustainable development. Fanosie Mekonnen, MoA's Lead Executive Officer for Natural Resources Protection and Usage , revealed in a conversation with the Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA) that a considerable focus of this year's reforestation efforts would be directed towards the Nile Basin. Specifically, 25 percent of the forestry seedlings, constituting a mix of 60 percent agroforestry and 40 percent forestry trees, are earmarked for this critical watershed area. The initiative is not only about planting trees but also about safeguarding crucial national assets like the Abbay Dam from sedimentation threats. By reinforcing natural resource management and conservation within the Nile Basin, Ethiopia is taking proactive steps to maintain the dam's longevity and functionality. Collaboration is at the heart of this endeavor, with Fanosie highlighting the collective efforts of state leaders and the general public in driving the Green Legacy Initiative forward. The nationwide commitment is evident in the participation in basin development and green legacy activities, demonstrating a unified approach to environmental stewardship. Looking back at the journey of the Green Legacy Initiative, Ethiopia has made commendable progress, with over 32.5 billion seedlings planted across the nation in the last five years. The ambitious goal to plant 50 billion seedlings in the initiative's first and second phases underscores Ethiopia's dedication to environmental conservation and climate action. Tags ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

Published: March 21, 2024 at 9:38:39 AM Modified: March 21, 2024 at 9:38:39 AM Bobrisky exudes self-assurance while providing a recent update on his gender transition progress. @kemifilani Renowned for his vibrant presence on social media, Bobrisky recently took to Instagram to showcase the progress of his transformation into womanhood. In the post, he was seen endorsing a cosmetic product, his appearance exuding confidence and elegance, indicative of his satisfaction with his journey thus far. Cradling his augmented breasts, Bobrisky looked radiant, a testament to the successful changes he's undergone. In his message, he expressed deep gratitude towards his medical team, both in Nigeria and abroad, for their exemplary work in facilitating his transition without any health complications. "My journey transitioning into a woman has been going smooth, no health issue, everything is going smooth for me. I want to say thank you to all my doctor both home and abroad you all did an amazing job with my body," he wrote. He also extended thanks to @blemiviv_skincare, acknowledging the brand's role in his skincare routine during this transformative phase . "Guys go check @blemiviv_skincare out,” he recommended, sharing his positive experience with his followers. Tags ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

Bisola Aiyeola says she has never been asked for sex-for-roles as she highlights broader challenges in Nollywood. Bisola Aiyeola Says She Has Never Faced Sexual Harassment in Nollywood Bisola Aiyeola says she has never been asked for sex-for-roles as she highlights broader challenges in Nollywood. Published: December 7, 2025 at 12:12:18 PM Modified: December 8, 2025 at 3:09:02 AM Written By | Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Media personality and actress Bisola Aiyeola has stated that she has never been subjected to sexual harassment or asked for sex in exchange for movie roles throughout her career in Nollywood. Aiyeola made the comment during a recent event, a clip of which was shared on YouTube. She addressed the broader challenges faced by actors and crew members in the industry, noting that sexual harassment is only one of several persistent issues. Sexual harassment, including sex-for-role allegations, remains a widely acknowledged problem within Nollywood, with many actresses and emerging talents reporting unwanted advances from individuals in positions of authority. Aiyeola said she was fortunate not to have encountered such situations. “Thankfully, I’ve never been asked for sex for roles. There are some of us that it has never happened to, so I don’t have a personal story about it. My talent has always spoken for me and is still speaking for me,” she said. She added that the industry also grapples with concerns such as physical harassment, long and irregular working hours, and the absence of health insurance. Aiyeola cautioned that focusing solely on sex-for-role cases could overshadow other critical issues. “It feels like when we’re only talking about sex for roles, we shelve all other major issues that also happen in the industry,” she noted. Tags Entertainment Entertainment Nigeria Nigeria ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading Hollywood Updates Melania Documentary Exceeds Box Office Forecasts Despite Criticism Amazon-backed film opens above expectations as critics pan and audiences respond positively . Entertainment Keke Palmer Shares Views on Relationships and Living Arrangements Actress says she values personal space and prefers separate living spaces . Entertainment Davido Reacts to 2026 Grammy Loss, Thanks Wife Chioma Singer says Chioma’s words helped him remain gracious after losing Best African Music award . Entertainment Trump Criticises Grammys, Considers Legal Action Against Trevor Noah Former US president disputes comments made during awards ceremony and denies Epstein links .

Published: March 6, 2024 at 9:31:28 AM Modified: March 6, 2024 at 9:42:56 AM Naira scrapped from binance what is next for nigerian Miners and Digital bankers Binance, a leading cryptocurrency trading platform, has declared its intention to cease all operations involving the Nigerian naira. The platform faced criticism for its alleged role in the devaluation of the Naira. Moreover, Binance is also contending with serious accusations, including facilitating terrorism financing, engaging in money laundering activities, and evading taxes. This decision comes in the wake of escalating concerns regarding the devaluation of the naira and the broader impact on the Nigerian economy. The removal of the naira from Binance's P2P market is a response to allegations from Nigerian authorities that the platform was contributing to the currency's depreciation. Despite Binance's explanation that P2P exchange rates are set by individual users and not by the platform itself, the Nigerian government has intensified its regulatory scrutiny over cryptocurrency operations, including imposing restrictions on Binance and other crypto services. In addition to the P2P service change, Binance has introduced a cap on the selling price of Tether (USDT) tokens on its P2P platform, limiting transactions to a maximum rate of 1,802 NGN per USDT. Nigeria is one of the largest peer-to-peer crypto markets in the world. Between July 2022 and June 2023, crypto transactions in the country reached $56.7bn, according to Chainalysis. This measure, explained as a precaution against automated system disruptions, has sparked debate within the local crypto community, with some viewing it as an unnecessary intervention in the market dynamics. The backdrop to these developments includes a broader governmental crackdown on cryptocurrency exchanges, motivated Tags ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

President William Ruto and an angry youth on the right. Published: June 24, 2024 at 10:16:15 AM Modified: July 9, 2024 at 8:25:47 PM In a move to address growing unrest, President William Ruto has expressed readiness to engage with young Kenyans protesting the new public finance bill. The bill, which proposes new taxes, has sparked widespread opposition, particularly among the youth. Last week saw thousands take to the streets across Kenya, demanding the bill's cancellation. Tragically, Thursday's demonstrations resulted in the deaths of two young protesters and left at least 200 injured, according to human rights organizations. On June 23, the protests continued in front of the Holy Family Basilica in Nairobi. Kanana Koome, a student, voiced the group's concerns, stating, "This law imposes heavy taxes on Kenyans, leading to oppression and a poor quality of life for those less wealthy." Milan, a 24-year-old participant, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the bleak job prospects for graduates and urging action to prevent future generations from facing even harsher conditions. Protests also erupted in Nyahururu, 200 kilometers north of Nairobi, where President Ruto attended Sunday mass. Addressing the nation for the first time since the protests began, Ruto acknowledged the youth's mobilization and expressed his willingness to dialogue. "We will identify your problems and work together as a nation," he assured. The youth's determination and the president's response mark a critical juncture in Kenya's ongoing debate over the finance bill. As both sides prepare for dialogue, the nation watches closely to see how these discussions will shape the future of Kenya's fiscal policies. Tags ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

Published: April 2, 2024 at 6:14:13 AM Modified: April 6, 2024 at 6:17:50 PM Afrobeat Star Burna Boy Presents Hypeman Hypeking Izzy with N1 Million at DeChandelier Club in Lagos. @burnaboygram@withinnigeria Afrobeat luminary Burna Boy has captured public attention by bestowing a generous N1 million gift upon his hypeman, Hypeking Izzy, during an event at the DeChandelier club in Lagos. The event, immortalized in a widely circulated video, featured an impassioned performance by Hypeking Izzy, whose zealous energy perfectly complemented Burna Boy's presence. The remarkable chemistry between the two, coupled with the vibrant ambiance of the club, made for an unforgettable experience for those in attendance. Overwhelmed by the gesture, Hypeking Izzy took to social media to share the moment, expressing his profound appreciation for the unexpected gift. Tags ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

M23 rebels are accused of killing, torturing, and disappearing civilians in secret Congo prisons, says Amnesty International. These are war crimes. An M23 soldier guards FARDC fighters at Stade de l’Unité in Goma, May 10, 2025. (Photo: Jospin Mwisha / AFP) M23 rebels are accused of killing, torturing, and disappearing civilians in secret Congo prisons, says Amnesty International. These are war crimes. Published: May 27, 2025 at 1:32:35 PM Modified: May 27, 2025 at 1:34:39 PM A new Amnesty International investigation has exposed shocking crimes committed by the Rwandan-backed rebel group M23, including killings, torture, enforced disappearances, and hostage-taking in Goma and Bukavu. These actions, Amnesty says, violate international humanitarian law and may amount to war crimes. M23’s public statements about bringing order to eastern DRC mask their horrific treatment of detainees... They brutally punish those who they believe oppose them," Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International's Regional Director The Hidden Prisons of Goma and Bukavu Between February and April 2025, 18 former detainees told Amnesty how they were unlawfully held in horrific conditions. Many were tortured, denied legal help, and kept away from their families. The detention sites included: Chien Méchant (ANR compound) RTNC compound on Mount Goma Provincial Assembly building 34th Military Region HQ Bagira military camp in Bukavu They whipped me every morning and called it ‘morning tea.’” Former detainee recounting his daily torture READ ALSO | Hutu Refugees in Congo Face Forced Return by Rwanda Eyewitness to Murder and Hammer Executions Survivors described brutal killings inside these secret prisons: They hit him with a hammer in the ribs. He died on the spot.” Former detainee describing torture-murder inside M23 facility In another case, a man was shot in the stomach and shoulder after M23 accused him of hiding weapons. Ransoms, Lies, and Disappearances M23 fighters reportedly demanded ransoms of up to $2,000 from families seeking their loved ones' release. Some victims were never returned. My family asked if I was there. M23 said no, even though I was inside.” Former prisoner Others vanished forever, like Victoire Hategekimana Hakizimana, an NGO worker arrested by Rwandan border officials and never seen again Inhumane Living Conditions Cells were so overcrowded, detainees had to sleep standing up. There was no water, barely any food, and sanitation was a nightmare. It was incredibly hot… People were drinking each other’s urine." Former detainee At one site, a man died after a week from a mix of torture, hunger, and dehydration. This Is a War Crime These actions, murder, torture, and hostage-taking, are not just human rights abuses; they are clear war crimes under international law. Amnesty International is demanding: Immediate release of detained civilians Access to lawyers & families Rwanda to stop supporting M23 Full international pressure and accountability Congolese know all too well the cruelty of M23... They continue to live in misery as international actors have become complacent.” Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International While peace deals are debated in fancy rooms, Congolese men, women, and children are tortured in silence. The world must choose: stay silent or stand with the victims. Tags M23 Conflict Updates M23 Conflict Updates M23 Rebels M23 Rebels Kagame Crimes Kagame Crimes Rwanda Invasion in DRC Rwanda Invasion in DRC DR.Congo DR.Congo Rwanda Rwanda ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading DRC Peace Effort FARDC Signals Sustained Offensive After Fizi Battles in South Kivu Army says 34 M23 fighters were killed in Fizi and 12 allied elements captured . Investment Deals DRC Signs $10B Trade Deal with UAE, Port & Mining Focus Congo’s $10B trade pact with the UAE marks a bold new era in African economic diplomacy. . War in DR Congo Rwanda‑Backed M23 Cries Foul as FARDC Moves to Liberate Minembwe FARDC operations intensify in South Kivu as the army moves to restore state authority in Minembwe. . War in DR Congo Ituri urges armed groups and youth to join P-DDRSC process Col. Emmanuel Libandi calls for disarmament, reintegration and youth engagement .

Published: May 17, 2024 at 9:07:06 AM Modified: May 17, 2024 at 9:24:50 AM Lawyers Ekuru Aukot contested the deployment in the High Court in October Kenyan lawyers and their opposition party have petitioned a court to hold the government in contempt over its plans to deploy police to Haiti, according to a recent filing. In response to Haiti's urgent appeal for assistance, Kenya offered in July 2023 to send 1,000 officers to address a deteriorating security crisis that has forced about 200,000 people to flee their homes due to gang violence. Lawyers Ekuru Aukot, Miruru Waweru, and their Thirdway Alliance Kenya party initially contested the deployment in the High Court in October. In January, President William Ruto announced Kenya's intention to proceed with the deployment, despite a court ruling that officers could only be sent abroad if a "reciprocal arrangement" existed with the host government. People also read: Kenyan Lawyers Challenge Government's Plan to Send Police to Haiti, Seek Contempt Ruling "The applicants are reliably informed that the impugned deployment may be done any time from now," the plaintiffs stated in their application on Thursday, emphasizing that the urgency of the matter is underscored by a May 23 deadline for the next step in the deployment process. In March, the Kenyan government announced a pause on the deployment following the resignation of Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry. Tags ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

Every Day, XtrAfrica highlights a World Cup record. To day's spotlight is on Oleg Salenko, who outshone legends in California during the 1994 tournament. Credit:sputnik Published: June 24, 2024 at 6:18:53 AM Modified: June 24, 2024 at 6:18:53 AM Oleg Salenko's prediction to his roommate in a California hotel seemed outlandish: "I had a dream," he excitedly shared. "I'm going to score lots of goals, we're going to thrash Cameroon, and we're going to reach the final." His long-time friend Dmitri Radchenko thought he "needed admitting to a mental asylum." Heading into 1994, Salenko had just two caps, began the FIFA World Cup™ on the bench, and would never play international football again. Russia needed a significant win against Cameroon, a team that nearly reached the Italia '90 semi-finals, to advance from Group B. Despite the odds, two of Salenko's premonitions materialized. Salenko's performance at Stanford Stadium was historic. By the 75th minute, he had scored five goals, all with his right boot, leading Russia to a 6-1 victory. This extraordinary feat broke the record for most goals in a World Cup game, previously held by Ernst Wilimowski, Ademir de Menezes, Sandor Kocsis, Just Fontaine, Eusebio, and Emilio Butragueno. “I didn’t know it was a record at the time,” Salenko recalled. “I heard something over the loudspeaker, but I was focused on winning by as many goals as possible. It was in English, and I wasn’t quite sure what it was. There are records for everything. I couldn’t have imagined setting one for the most goals in a World Cup game.” Post-match, Salenko and Radchenko were taken for doping tests. The game kicked off at 1 PM in 40°C heat, leaving them dehydrated and waiting an hour-and-a-half to provide urine samples. “I found out hours later about the prestigious record. It was amazing, but at the time, I was anxious to see if we would advance.” Despite the resounding victory, Russia's hopes for the knockout phase were dashed as Saudi Arabia stunned Belgium, Bulgaria upset Argentina, and Nigeria defeated Greece. The Eastern Europeans were out. “It was only afterwards that I appreciated the record,” Salenko reflected. “You look at those great strikers who scored four goals in a World Cup game. Legends like Pele, Gerd Muller, and Paolo Rossi didn’t even manage that. Scoring five in a game is something I’m very proud of. That’s the beauty of the World Cup – the whole world is watching. If you do something spectacular, you’ll be remembered forever. People still come up to me from all over the world to talk about it.” Salenko’s final goal against Jacques Songo'o brought his total to six at USA ’94. He was Russia’s sole scorer in a 3-1 defeat to Sweden, led by Martin Dahlin. Ultimately, Hristo Stoichkov matched Salenko's six goals, leading to them sharing the adidas Golden Boot. Remarkably, Salenko is the only player to win the Golden Boot without playing in the knockout rounds. “It was an honour to share the Golden Boot with such a great player. We’ve met several times. He’d joke that I should be grateful he didn’t score one more, and I’d joke that he should be grateful I passed rather than scored against Cameroon !” Tags ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

Published: March 11, 2024 at 1:33:01 PM Modified: March 11, 2024 at 1:33:01 PM Aubameyang Celebrating his decisive goal against Villarreal in Europa League. Photograph/voi In a stunning display of skill and agility, striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang led Olympique de Marseille to a 2-0 triumph over Nantes at the Stade Vélodrome, marking their fifth consecutive win and propelling them to seventh place in the league standings. Under the guidance of newly appointed Coach Jean-Louis Gasset, Marseille has seen a remarkable turnaround, securing victories in all five matches since his leadership began last month and netting a total of 18 goals during this period. Aubameyang, known for his celebratory somersaults after scoring, has been in exceptional form, contributing significantly to Marseille's success. The esteemed forward, who previously played for Arsenal and Barcelona, has found the back of the net eight times under Gasset's management. The match highlights included Aubameyang's opening goal in the 17th minute, following a precise cross from Senegalese winger Ismaïla Sarr. The duo collaborated once more for Aubameyang's second goal in the 79th minute, where he outmaneuvered goalkeeper Alban Lafont on his second attempt. As Olympique Marseille's leading scorer with 23 goals, including 11 in league play, Aubameyang's remarkable performance positions him and his team in an advantageous spot as they prepare to face their arch-rivals, PSG, on March 31. Tags ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

Map of Africa with an Empty bank safe Published: July 16, 2024 at 11:52:47 AM Modified: July 18, 2024 at 4:50:26 PM Vivian Fray Tarrence, team lead for the international investment platform Lola Group in Turkey, declared that all African countries are bankrupt and unable to provide even 5% of the required funding for investors. This statement was made during a visit to the Simon Diedong Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies (SDD-UBIDS), where Tarrence met with Vice-Chancellor Prof. Emmanuel K. Derbile. Tarrence announced a US$33 million approval from the Lola Group for constructing new faculties , supporting research, and providing hostels at SDD-UBIDS. The funding, arranged through non-recourse and Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangements, aims to address infrastructure deficits in collaboration with the College for Community and Organisational Development. Tarrence explained that the Lola Group has developed a strategy to bypass the need for guarantees, which allowed for the approval of the US$33 million grant without any guarantees or upfront payments. Despite expressing concerns about the reluctance of funders to invest in Africa due to past project failures, Tarrence highlighted plans to facilitate exchange programs, enabling students from countries like South Africa, Turkey, the USA, and Canada to study at SDD-UBIDS. Prof. Emmanuel K. Derbile assured the Lola Group that the university is committed to executing the projects according to specifications and will promptly review the MoU and agreements to work efficiently with the university council. He expressed gratitude to the Lola Group for approving the funds and awarding the university two grants for various projects, hoping that this partnership will significantly improve the university’s infrastructure and enhance student accommodation and faculty facilities. Tags ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading

The border standoff between Niger and Benin since the coup has taken a heavy toll on cross-border trade and travel between the two countries. A long line of trucks is seen queuing at the closed border between Benin and Niger in the town of Malanville. Since seizing power two years ago, Niger’s military rulers have refused to reopen the border with Benin, accusing its neighbour of harbouring foreign forces bent on destabilising Niger. Benin which denies the claims has sought to break the deadlock but to no avail despite the economic impact on both sides of the border. [Photo Credit: AFP] The border standoff between Niger and Benin since the coup has taken a heavy toll on cross-border trade and travel between the two countries. Published: June 12, 2025 at 9:08:57 AM Modified: June 12, 2025 at 1:50:04 PM Nearly two years after Niger's military government seized power in a coup, the once-thriving border with neighboring Benin remains tightly shut, escalating economic distress and diplomatic tension. What initially began as a security precaution has now hardened into a political standoff, rooted in suspicions over foreign military influence and regional sovereignty. At the heart of the impasse is Niger’s ruling junta, led by General Abdourahamane Tiani , who has accused Benin of allowing French forces to operate covertly on its soil, a claim Benin has consistently denied. General Tiani maintains that these forces are involved in training jihadists to destabilize Niger, which he cited in May as justification for keeping the border closed indefinitely. The blockade has severely affected cross-border commerce between the two countries, which once shared robust trade ties. In Benin's economic hub, Cotonou, Nigerien transporters like Ibrahim Abou Koura are feeling the pinch. “Those who are suffering are the people of both countries,” he said, standing in an eerily quiet compound that once buzzed with goods destined for Niamey and other major Nigerien cities. Transporters now face dangerous detours through jihadist-controlled regions in Burkina Faso to move goods between Niger and Benin, further inflating logistics costs and exposing drivers to greater risk. “The Niger-Benin corridor is currently the safest, most profitable and shortest route for transporters,” noted Gamatie Mahamadou, secretary-general of a consortium of Nigerien truck driver unions. He urged Niger’s authorities to resume diplomatic relations with Benin, warning of ongoing threats to both worker safety and national economic stability. Despite the official closure, informal crossings persist. In towns like Malanville, which straddles the Niger River, the natural border between the countries, people and goods continue to cross by boat. “Travellers cross the river to continue their journey by bus on the Niger side,” said local resident Alassane Amidou. While some lifelines remain, including the resumption of Niger’s crude oil exports through a pipeline to Benin’s Seme-Kpodji port, other vital sectors are still blocked. Uranium shipments, a major export for Niger, remain suspended, awaiting a thaw in relations or an alternative export route. Benin has sought to defuse tensions with numerous diplomatic overtures. In early June, Foreign Minister Olushegun Adjadi Bakari reiterated the country's readiness to restore ties, provided security concerns are addressed. “We are hopeful that this will be resolved quickly … the blockage is not on Benin’s side,” he said, emphasizing that the door for dialogue remains open. In a controversial move earlier this year, Benin’s ambassador to Niger, Gildas Agonkan, issued a public apology to the Nigerien people. While it was intended as a goodwill gesture, many in Cotonou viewed it as a diplomatic concession that weakened Benin’s negotiating position. The government is reportedly considering a high-profile replacement who can navigate the delicate situation and command respect in Niamey. The dispute underscores a broader regional challenge in West Africa, where tensions over sovereignty, foreign influence, and Islamist militancy intersect. Benin, which has seen a spike in jihadist activity this year, has warned that limited communication with its Sahelian neighbors exacerbates its security vulnerabilities. Lassina Diarra, head of the Strategic Research Institute of the International Counter-Terrorism Academy in Ivory Coast, warns that Benin’s isolation from regional military collaboration may embolden extremist groups. “Not being able to talk directly with its neighbours increases Benin’s vulnerability,” he said. With Benin’s presidential elections slated for April 2026, analysts believe there may be a window for resetting relations. International relations expert Guillaume Moumouni suggests that a newly elected government could usher in "serious negotiations" to restore ties and revive the economic arteries between the two countries. Until then, however, the border closure continues to serve as a stark reminder of how political mistrust can ripple into economic paralysis, with ordinary citizens bearing the brunt. Tags Economy & Business Economy & Business Africa Africa Benin Benin Niger Niger ADVERTISEMENT Keep Reading Diplomacy Why Kinshasa Is Challenging Mushikiwabo’s Leadership at OIF DRC cites governance concerns and Rwanda-linked tensions as it prepares to field a rival candidate. . African Politics DRC government and UN mobilise $1.4B to protect vulnerable communities Appeal follows sharp funding drop as conflict-driven needs rise and NGOs scale back. . Education Samia Launches RWA Programme to Strengthen Early Learning in Tanzania New strategy targets reading, writing and arithmetic for pre-primary and Standards 1–2 pupils . Justice & Crime New clashes in Western Tigray raise fears for northern Ethiopia Fighting near Tsemlet halts flights and revives tensions in a still-fragile post-war north .