Africa Education Kenya Stay alert this festive season as security risks rise,Authorities urge public vigilance Bahati shalom Dec 17, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link The Ministry of Interior and National Administration has issued a warning about increased security risks during the festive season. They urge people to stay alert as crime rates typically rise during this time. The advisory highlighted a surge in petty crimes like pickpocketing and muggings, particularly in busy places such as markets, shopping centers, and public transport areas. Authorities have also observed a rise in drug trafficking and the production of illegal alcoholic drinks, which is a major concern during the holidays. Home break-ins are becoming more common, especially when families travel and leave their houses empty. Similarly, there has been an increase in car break-ins as Christmas approaches. The Ministry stressed the need for public vigilance to reduce these risks. Nigeria ECOWAS highlights progress in regional trade, security, and economic integration at its 66th summit Ghanaians react to the damaged Akufo-Addo statue DR.Congo Luanda: Between peace and the M23, Kagame chose Terrorism says Thérèse Kayikwamba Ghana Mahama's victory is a call for constitutional reform, accountability, and lasting change Top News Related Posts ECOWAS highlights progress in regional trade, security, and economic integration at its 66th summit . Nigeria Ghanaians react to the damaged Akufo-Addo statue . Luanda: Between peace and the M23, Kagame chose Terrorism says Thérèse Kayikwamba . DR.Congo Mahama's victory is a call for constitutional reform, accountability, and lasting change . Ghana

Africa Economy Nigeria FEC approves N47.96tn 2025 budget, renames University of Abuja after Gen. Gowon Chinedu Bruce Dec 17, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link General Yakubu Gowon The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved a budget proposal of N47.96 trillion for the 2025 fiscal year. This decision came during FEC’s final meeting of 2024, presided over by President Bola Tinubu. Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, shared details after the meeting. He explained that the 2025 budget framework is based on an oil price benchmark of $75 per barrel, oil production of 2.06 million barrels per day, and an exchange rate of N1,400 to the dollar. Bagudu said, “The 2025 budget proposal articulates the federal government’s financial plan for the 2025 fiscal year and aligns with the renewed hope agenda and the national development plan, 2021-2025.” He added that the projected total revenue is N34.82 trillion, with an expenditure of N47.96 trillion, representing a 36.8% increase from 2024. The budget deficit stands at N13.13 trillion, or 3.89% of GDP. He noted that despite inheriting a deficit of N6.1 trillion from the 2023 budget, the administration managed the deficit effectively in 2024. President Tinubu also made some adjustments to the budget before its approval. The presentation of the budget to the National Assembly has been rescheduled to Wednesday, December 18, 2024. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, explained that the change is due to ongoing discussions with the National Assembly to confirm a suitable date and time. Renaming of University of Abuja FEC approved renaming the University of Abuja to Yakubu Gowon University to honor former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon. The decision recognizes his role in maintaining Nigeria’s unity during the civil war and for initiatives like the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, said, “President Tinubu moved a motion for the renaming of the University of Abuja at the council meeting and the council approved that the University of Abuja be renamed Yakubu Gowon University, and FEC unanimously approved the motion.” The change will require legislative approval from the National Assembly. Dr. Alausa praised President Tinubu’s increased funding for education and human capital development. Free Train Services for Christmas To ease transportation costs during the Christmas period, FEC approved free train services nationwide from December 20, 2024, to January 6, 2025. Idris said, “Government is also happy to announce that, as we did last year, there will be free train service to all Nigerians from the 20th up until the 6th January.” However, this initiative will not include free road transport services for cities without trains. FEC Recess FEC announced that cabinet members will go on recess starting December 18, 2024, and resume on January 6, 2025. Governor Mutfwang Commends Tinubu Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, praised President Tinubu for renaming the University of Abuja after General Gowon. He described the honor as a recognition of Gowon’s contributions to Nigeria’s unity and peace. “General Yakubu Gowon is a cherished father figure and a beacon of peace to millions of Nigerians,” Mutfwang said, adding that Gowon’s leadership left a lasting mark on Nigeria’s history. The governor congratulated Gowon, praying for continued good health and strength for the elder statesman Nigeria ECOWAS highlights progress in regional trade, security, and economic integration at its 66th summit Ghanaians react to the damaged Akufo-Addo statue DR.Congo Luanda: Between peace and the M23, Kagame chose Terrorism says Thérèse Kayikwamba Ghana Mahama's victory is a call for constitutional reform, accountability, and lasting change Top News Related Posts ECOWAS highlights progress in regional trade, security, and economic integration at its 66th summit . Nigeria Ghanaians react to the damaged Akufo-Addo statue . Luanda: Between peace and the M23, Kagame chose Terrorism says Thérèse Kayikwamba . DR.Congo Mahama's victory is a call for constitutional reform, accountability, and lasting change . Ghana

Africa Local News DR.Congo Luanda: Between peace and the M23, Kagame chose Terrorism says Thérèse Kayikwamba Mbeki edmond Dec 16, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link On Sunday, December 15, 2024, the Minister of Communication and Media, Government Spokesperson Patrick Muyaya Katembwe, co-hosted a press briefing alongside the Minister of State, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, and Francophonie, Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner. The briefing focused on the absence of Rwanda's President, Paul Kagame, from the tripartite meeting scheduled in Luanda, Angola, as part of the peace process in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Kinshasa's message was unequivocal: Rwanda has once again exposed its role as the patron of the terrorist movement M23. Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner stated that between peace and the M23, President Kagame has chosen the latter. “We found ourselves this morning in a regrettable situation where the Rwandan president decided not to honor the invitation of his Angolan counterpart. In contrast, President Felix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo of the DRC upheld his commitment to the peace process by traveling to Luanda, only to find his Rwandan counterpart absent. Rwanda, the DRC, and Angola were on the verge of reaching a peace agreement. Yet Rwanda chose to continue its support for the M23 over the prospect of peace. Between peace and the M23, Rwanda has clearly chosen the M23,” declared Minister Kayikwamba Wagner. The Minister further explained that during negotiations, Rwanda made direct dialogue between the DRC and the M23 a prerequisite for signing any agreement. This demand was firmly rejected by the DRC, which has consistently refused to negotiate with what it defines as a terrorist movement. “Rwanda once again used the pretext of a negotiated solution involving direct dialogue between the DRC government and the terrorist group M23. This is something we have never and will never accept. The M23 was part of the Nairobi process but excluded itself when it took up arms again. Rwanda’s insistence on this demand is nothing more than a last-minute tactic to derail the process. Our position remains clear: the DRC will not engage in direct discussions with a terrorist group,” she emphasized. Kayikwamba Wagner presented evidence showing Rwanda’s repeated violations of agreements and its persistent role in destabilizing the eastern DRC to exploit the region’s vast mineral resources. She cited Rwanda’s breach of the ceasefire agreement signed in July 2024 and its failure to send experts to the verification mechanism established as part of the peace process. While DRC and Angola have had active experts since November 5, 2024, Rwanda’s non-compliance reflects its lack of commitment to peace. Another violation highlighted was the November 25 agreement, which required Rwanda to withdraw its forces from the DRC and for the DRC to neutralize the FDLR. Rwanda’s actions indicate an unwillingness to uphold these obligations, further complicating the peace process. Adding to this, Minister Patrick Muyaya underscored that President Kagame’s actions unmistakably signal his allegiance to the M23. “Today, you witnessed that the Rwandan president failed to attend as planned. President Felix demonstrated his dedication to peace by traveling to Luanda in respect of the mediation efforts and to reaffirm our commitment. Kagame’s absence can only be interpreted as a public affirmation of his role as the patron of the M23’s actions,” Muyaya asserted. Both ministers expressed Kinshasa’s disappointment over Rwanda’s lack of sincerity in the peace process, reaffirming the DRC’s determination to pursue peace while rejecting any compromise with groups it considers terrorist organizations. Related Posts Luanda: Between peace and the M23, Kagame chose Terrorism says Thérèse Kayikwamba . DR.Congo Mahama's victory is a call for constitutional reform, accountability, and lasting change . Ghana Kagame's Tricks Backfire: Caught in His Own Contradictions . DR.Congo President Tinubu urges ECOWAS leaders to follow Ghana’s democratic example . Nigeria DR.Congo Luanda: Between peace and the M23, Kagame chose Terrorism says Thérèse Kayikwamba . Ghana Mahama's victory is a call for constitutional reform, accountability, and lasting change . DR.Congo Kagame's Tricks Backfire: Caught in His Own Contradictions . Nigeria President Tinubu urges ECOWAS leaders to follow Ghana’s democratic example .

Africa Economy South Africa Is SuperSport is DStv's secret weapon, delivering unmatched sports coverage louis Buyisiwe Dec 16, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Since 2018, DStv has grown its subscriber base from 13.5 million to 15.7 million in March 2024 SuperSport, a global leader in sports broadcasting, is DStv’s secret weapon, keeping subscribers hooked despite the global trend of cord-cutting. While cable and satellite TV operators in markets like the U.S. have lost over 20 million subscribers in the past decade, DStv has shown resilience. Since 2018, DStv has grown its subscriber base from 13.5 million to 15.7 million in March 2024, a remarkable feat in a shrinking industry. The credit largely goes to SuperSport, which offers unparalleled sports coverage. From rugby, soccer, and cricket to golf, DStv Premium subscribers enjoy access to top sporting events worldwide. SuperSport broke records in 2024, broadcasting 34,490 live events, including comprehensive coverage of the Paris Olympic Games, EURO 2024, and the ICC T20 Men’s World Cup. The Paris Olympics alone saw 1,200 live events across 2,900 broadcast hours on eight channels, with additional streaming options. This resulted in a 20% increase in viewers compared to the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Over the past six months, SuperSport delivered 10,240 live events and 21,540 hours of coverage—a 22% year-on-year growth. Its SuperSport Schools platform doubled its user base, surpassing one million app users while delivering over 35,000 hours of content. In South Africa, sports are more than entertainment—they’re a way of life. From cheering on the Springboks and Proteas to enjoying local leagues and the English Premier League, sports unite the nation. DStv’s availability in hotels, bars, and restaurants reflects this cultural significance. Calvo Mawela, MultiChoice CEO, emphasized the company’s commitment to being the “home of sport” through SuperSport. “We are definitely among the top providers in the world,” he said. With a focus on premium content and a reliable platform, Mawela believes MultiChoice is well-positioned for future growth. SuperSport’s unmatched sports offering keeps DStv subscribers loyal, making it the company’s ultimate advantage in a competitive market. DR.Congo Luanda: Between peace and the M23, Kagame chose Terrorism says Thérèse Kayikwamba Ghana Mahama's victory is a call for constitutional reform, accountability, and lasting change DR.Congo Kagame's Tricks Backfire: Caught in His Own Contradictions Nigeria President Tinubu urges ECOWAS leaders to follow Ghana’s democratic example Top News Related Posts Luanda: Between peace and the M23, Kagame chose Terrorism says Thérèse Kayikwamba . DR.Congo Mahama's victory is a call for constitutional reform, accountability, and lasting change . Ghana Kagame's Tricks Backfire: Caught in His Own Contradictions . DR.Congo President Tinubu urges ECOWAS leaders to follow Ghana’s democratic example . Nigeria

Africa Health South Africa Tragic Eastern Cape accident on N9 claims 13 lives, injures many Ayize claire Dec 16, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link A devastating crash on the N9 near Graaff-Reinet, Eastern Cape, early Monday, has left 13 people dead. The accident involved a fully-loaded minibus taxi from the Western Cape and an SUV carrying six occupants. Tragically, everyone in the SUV died at the scene. Emergency responders are still attending to the injured, according to Unathi Binqose, the provincial transport spokesperson. In a separate incident on the R61 near Bizana, three more people lost their lives in another head-on collision. A sedan carrying two men collided with a van carrying three passengers. Both sedan occupants and a female passenger from the van died, while the remaining van occupants were rushed to the hospital with serious injuries. The Department of Transport has vowed to enhance road safety during the 2024 festive season. Their plan includes education, stricter enforcement, and a focus on pedestrian safety. They have identified 20 high-risk routes, including: Limpopo: R71, R37, N1 Mpumalanga: R573, N4 Gauteng: R21 North West: N12 KwaZulu-Natal: N2 (Pongola, Umkomaas) Eastern Cape: R61, N2 (several sections) Western Cape: N2 Khayelitsha Road users are urged to prioritize safety as these interventions aim to reduce accidents and save lives. DR.Congo Luanda: Between peace and the M23, Kagame chose Terrorism says Thérèse Kayikwamba Ghana Mahama's victory is a call for constitutional reform, accountability, and lasting change DR.Congo Kagame's Tricks Backfire: Caught in His Own Contradictions Nigeria President Tinubu urges ECOWAS leaders to follow Ghana’s democratic example Top News Related Posts Luanda: Between peace and the M23, Kagame chose Terrorism says Thérèse Kayikwamba . DR.Congo Mahama's victory is a call for constitutional reform, accountability, and lasting change . Ghana Kagame's Tricks Backfire: Caught in His Own Contradictions . DR.Congo President Tinubu urges ECOWAS leaders to follow Ghana’s democratic example . Nigeria

Africa | Domestic Politics Ghana Mahama's victory is a call for constitutional reform, accountability, and lasting change Agyeman Joshua Dec 15, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Lawyer Oliver Barker-Vormawor Oliver Barker-Vormawor, a lawyer and leader of the #FixTheCountry movement, says the victory given to the National Democratic Congress (NDC) by Ghanaians shows strong support for constitutional changes. He believes this moment is historic and a chance for President-elect John Dramani Mahama to leave a lasting impact. According to him, this trust from Ghanaians must not be wasted, or Ghana may lose the opportunity to achieve its goals. Barker-Vormawor explained on Facebook:“Listen, it took 32 years, 8 regular election cycles and 2 run off elections, for us to get here. We may likely never be here again.”He added that this is “a mandate for Constitutional Reform! This is a mandate for probity and accountability, if I ever saw one. A mandate to build a legacy no one has ever been able to build, apart from Nkrumah.” Mahama received 56% of the popular vote, winning in 14 out of 16 regions. He also gained 68% of the military vote and 80% of the police vote. With over two-thirds of Parliament on his side, Mahama is in a unique position as a one-term president. Barker-Vormawor stressed that the people have given Mahama everything he needs to succeed and said:“If the trust of the Ghanaian voter is wasted, I am not sure we can ever recover again, get Ghana anywhere close to its vision.” He urged the NDC not to fail:“There can be no excuses this time. Wallahi, Only the NDC can sabotage the NDC at this rate.” Related Posts Luanda: Between peace and the M23, Kagame chose Terrorism says Thérèse Kayikwamba . DR.Congo Mahama's victory is a call for constitutional reform, accountability, and lasting change . Ghana Kagame's Tricks Backfire: Caught in His Own Contradictions . DR.Congo President Tinubu urges ECOWAS leaders to follow Ghana’s democratic example . Nigeria DR.Congo Luanda: Between peace and the M23, Kagame chose Terrorism says Thérèse Kayikwamba . Ghana Mahama's victory is a call for constitutional reform, accountability, and lasting change . DR.Congo Kagame's Tricks Backfire: Caught in His Own Contradictions . Nigeria President Tinubu urges ECOWAS leaders to follow Ghana’s democratic example .

Africa Health Ghana Western Region battles cholera outbreak with 908 cases, 10 deaths Agyeman Joshua Dec 16, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link To combat the crisis, MMDAs have been directed to strengthen Public Health Emergency Response Teams The Western Regional Co-ordinating Council (WRCC) has called on Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) to take urgent steps to tackle the rising cholera cases in the region. In a statement signed by Mr. Stephen Quarshie, Acting Regional Co-ordinating Director, and shared with the Ghana News Agency, the WRCC confirmed that eight MMDAs had reported cholera outbreaks, with 908 cases and 10 deaths so far. To combat the crisis, MMDAs have been directed to strengthen Public Health Emergency Response Teams, ensure they are well-resourced, and follow Ghana Health Service (GHS) guidelines. Key actions include mass refuse collection, identifying treatment centers, enforcing sanitation laws, and ramping up public education. Additionally, the Western Regional GHS Directorate will carry out a cholera vaccination campaign from December 15 to December 19, targeting four areas: Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis, Effia-Kwesimintsim, Ahanta West, and Shama. Vaccines will be administered to people aged one and above at homes, schools, churches, markets, and other key locations. This effort aims to control the outbreak and safeguard public health in the region. DR.Congo Luanda: Between peace and the M23, Kagame chose Terrorism says Thérèse Kayikwamba Ghana Mahama's victory is a call for constitutional reform, accountability, and lasting change DR.Congo Kagame's Tricks Backfire: Caught in His Own Contradictions Nigeria President Tinubu urges ECOWAS leaders to follow Ghana’s democratic example Top News Related Posts Luanda: Between peace and the M23, Kagame chose Terrorism says Thérèse Kayikwamba . DR.Congo Mahama's victory is a call for constitutional reform, accountability, and lasting change . Ghana Kagame's Tricks Backfire: Caught in His Own Contradictions . DR.Congo President Tinubu urges ECOWAS leaders to follow Ghana’s democratic example . Nigeria

Africa Finance South Africa MTN plans to launch a bank, leveraging MoMo's success, as SARB opens the payment system to fintechs. Ayize claire Dec 15, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link MTN-headquarters in Fairlands 14th-avenue Johannesburg MTN is planning to get a banking licence when the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) allows fintechs and other non-banking companies to access the national payments system, as reported by Business Times . Currently, MTN offers limited banking-like services through its MoMo (Mobile Money) platform. This service allows users to make payments and transfer money using their phone numbers instead of traditional bank account numbers. MoMo focuses on small businesses like spaza shops and low-income customers who often use cash. For now, MTN relies on African Bank as a partner since it doesn’t have its own banking licence. Recently, TechCentral reported that SARB is working on new regulations to let fintechs directly access the core clearing and settlements system. Tim Masela, head of the SARB’s National Payments System department, explained: “We believe that we should move with the times and open up the system for the entry of non-banks.” MTN South Africa’s fintech officer, Kagiso Mothibi, confirmed that fintechs will soon be able to join the banking system under new rules. “When that is rolled out, we’ll definitely be looking to pursue our own licence,” he told Business Times . SARB is working on frameworks to regulate fintechs and non-banking companies while balancing innovation and financial risk. Mothibi also highlighted that getting a banking licence would give MTN more control over its banking services. MTN’s goal is to make MoMo a low-cost banking option for users. The platform has grown to 11 million registered users, with three million active customers. Recent improvements to MoMo include launching business wallets and international money transfers in September 2023. In February 2024, MTN partnered with Mastercard to give MoMo users virtual and physical cards for payments worldwide. Mastercard also invested $200 million in MTN Group Fintech, boosting its growth.These upgrades helped MTN’s fintech revenue grow by 59.1% in the first half of 2024 and by 61.8% in the third quarter compared to 2023. MTN is not the only telecom company focusing on financial services. Vodacom is expanding its offerings with platforms like VodaPay and M-Pesa, Africa’s leading mobile money service. The shift to financial services helps telecom companies reduce their reliance on traditional cellular revenue, which has slowed due to cheaper data, better network access, and growing competition. Mahama's victory is a call for constitutional reform, accountability, and lasting change DR.Congo Kagame's Tricks Backfire: Caught in His Own Contradictions Nigeria President Tinubu urges ECOWAS leaders to follow Ghana’s democratic example DR.Congo PRESS RELEASE: Tripartite Meeting in Luanda Canceled: Rwanda Reaffirms Its Unconditional Support for M23 Terrorists Top News Related Posts Mahama's victory is a call for constitutional reform, accountability, and lasting change . Kagame's Tricks Backfire: Caught in His Own Contradictions . DR.Congo President Tinubu urges ECOWAS leaders to follow Ghana’s democratic example . Nigeria PRESS RELEASE: Tripartite Meeting in Luanda Canceled: Rwanda Reaffirms Its Unconditional Support for M23 Terrorists . DR.Congo

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman Shares Game-Changing News for Microsoft Investors. louis Buyisiwe Dec 16, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link OpenAI's shift to a for-profit model and potential AGI access for Microsoft could revolutionize AI Key Highlights: OpenAI CEO hints at rapid progress toward artificial general intelligence (AGI). Microsoft may gain unrestricted access to OpenAI's advanced technology. OpenAI's latest releases are in high demand. OpenAI's Transformation and Microsoft's Role OpenAI, known for its groundbreaking AI models like ChatGPT, is privately held but closely tied to Microsoft through a $14 billion investment. Initially structured as a non-profit with a “capped profit” model, OpenAI limited investor returns and access to its most advanced technology, including future AGI developments. This arrangement has been a challenge for Microsoft, which faced restrictions on licensing OpenAI’s top-tier AI models. However, recent shifts in OpenAI’s strategy suggest a more investor-friendly approach. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman admitted the original structure underestimated the scale of resources needed: "If we knew [about the massive capital required], we would have picked a different structure." In September, OpenAI announced plans to restructure as a for-profit company. Reports from December indicate ongoing talks to remove the "AGI clause" from Microsoft's contract, potentially giving the tech giant full access to AGI when it's achieved. Rapid Progress Toward AGI Altman has suggested that AGI could be achieved as early as next year—far sooner than many expected. If this timeline holds and the AGI clause is lifted, Microsoft’s enterprise products could gain a massive edge, driving demand and growth. Exciting New OpenAI Products OpenAI isn’t slowing down on innovation. Its new ChatGPT o1 model and the $200/month ChatGPT Pro tier launched this December have seen overwhelming demand. The company also introduced Sora , a feature enabling video generation from text prompts. The Pro tier, aimed at business users, signals a lucrative market for advanced AI services, addressing concerns about AI's profitability. Altman himself noted the demand for Sora was so high that access had to be temporarily restricted. A Win for Microsoft For Microsoft, these developments are doubly beneficial. First, AGI integration into its products could make them indispensable for businesses. Second, OpenAI’s value—currently pegged at over $150 billion—could skyrocket, further boosting Microsoft's investment returns. As OpenAI transitions into a more commercially viable entity, Microsoft's partnership positions it as a key player in the AI revolution, with potential for significant long-term rewards. Should Microsoft stock be on your radar? That’s a decision to weigh, but one thing is clear: AI’s future is coming fast, and Microsoft is at the forefront. Commercial technology OpenAI CEO Sam Altman Shares Game-Changing News for Microsoft Investors. . Tech News iOS Apple is reportedly developing foldable iPhone and iPad models . Business and Industry Thika Cloth Mills Boosts Kenya’s Cotton Industry . Banking and Finance Northern Senators debated Tax Reform Bills aimed at easing tax burdens, boosting local revenue . Related Posts Commercial technology OpenAI CEO Sam Altman Shares Game-Changing News for Microsoft Investors. . Tech News iOS Apple is reportedly developing foldable iPhone and iPad models . Business and Industry Thika Cloth Mills Boosts Kenya’s Cotton Industry . Banking and Finance Northern Senators debated Tax Reform Bills aimed at easing tax burdens, boosting local revenue .

Africa Economy Nigeria Financial experts project Nigeria's inflation to rise 0.76% in November to 34.64% Chinedu Bruce Dec 16, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link This continues the upward inflation trend seen in recent months Finance experts predict Nigeria's inflation will rise by 0.76% in November, reaching 34.64%, due to increased money supply and persistent cost pressures. This continues the upward inflation trend seen in recent months. According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the November inflation report will be published on Monday, December 16. Experts from Financial Derivatives Company (FDC) Limited, using their Lagos market survey and regression model, project a headline inflation rate of 34.64%. Key Drivers of Inflation The rise is attributed to seasonal factors and ongoing cost pressures, leading to higher prices compared to November 2023. The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) predicts inflation will peak at 35% in December 2024, averaging 27.7% in 2025. Long-term forecasts suggest a disinflationary trend, supported by stable foreign exchange rates, improved trade policies, and base effects. Food inflation and core inflation are also expected to climb alongside the headline rate. Analysts predict food inflation will rise to 40.02%, while core inflation will reach 29.38%, affecting prices of essentials like eggs, rice, vegetable oil, and sardines. Monthly Inflation Trends FDC analysts highlight that monthly inflation, considered a more accurate indicator of current market conditions than annual inflation, is projected to rise to 2.67% (annualized at 37.25%) from October’s 2.64%. This marks the fourth consecutive monthly increase since the temporary decline in August. “The reasons behind the surge are not far-fetched – they stem from the lingering effects of flooding in agricultural regions, as well as volatility in forex markets,” FDC analysts explained. Holiday Season Pressures With Christmas approaching, prices of essential items like rice, eggs, vegetable oil, pepper, and bread are expected to climb further. Analysts from Afrinvest noted: “Food and core inflation are expected to move in tandem with headline inflation to 40.02 percent and 29.38 percent respectively.” As prices rise, consumers are shifting to cheaper alternatives or reducing the quantity of goods they purchase. This trend is reflected in the declining Purchasing Manager’s Index (PMI). Food Insecurity and Broader Impacts Food insecurity in Nigeria has reached critical levels, worsened by insecurity, high transportation costs, and seasonal factors disrupting food supply chains. Rising prices have led to widespread hunger and strained household budgets. While inflation remains a global issue, experts believe Nigeria’s price spiral is unlikely to subside soon. FDC analysts concluded: “Month-on-month inflation to increase marginally... It implies that the pace of increase in the average price level surpassed the rate observed in October 2023.” Mahama's victory is a call for constitutional reform, accountability, and lasting change DR.Congo Kagame's Tricks Backfire: Caught in His Own Contradictions Nigeria President Tinubu urges ECOWAS leaders to follow Ghana’s democratic example DR.Congo PRESS RELEASE: Tripartite Meeting in Luanda Canceled: Rwanda Reaffirms Its Unconditional Support for M23 Terrorists Top News Related Posts Mahama's victory is a call for constitutional reform, accountability, and lasting change . Kagame's Tricks Backfire: Caught in His Own Contradictions . DR.Congo President Tinubu urges ECOWAS leaders to follow Ghana’s democratic example . Nigeria PRESS RELEASE: Tripartite Meeting in Luanda Canceled: Rwanda Reaffirms Its Unconditional Support for M23 Terrorists . DR.Congo

CAF Champions League 2024-2025: No Wins Yet for the 2 Congolese Teams After 3 Matches Prince Jean Dec 16, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link The two Congolese teams participating in the 2024-2025 CAF Champions League, Maniema Union and TP Mazembe, are still struggling to secure a win. Highly anticipated for victory on Saturday, December 14, both DRC teams ended their matches with 1-1 draws at home. In Kinshasa, Maniema Union recorded their third consecutive draw in their debut group stage campaign. Despite efforts, Papy Kimoto's squad failed to improve on their shortcomings from their previous match against Raja Casablanca. The greens and yellows of Kindu lacked the offensive firepower needed to dominate their opponents. Meanwhile, TP Mazembe had a promising start in their match. Substitute midfielder Fofana opened the scoring for the "crows" in the 40th minute. However, Moïse Katumbi's team faced a setback late in the game. Despite their initial advantage, they conceded an equalizer in the final minutes to the Tanzanian team, Young Africans, who are at the bottom of Group A. Nevertheless, both Congolese teams remain in contention for a spot in the quarter-finals. Maniema Union is hoping for a draw between Mamelodi Sundowns and Raja Casablanca to potentially secure second place in their group. As for TP Mazembe, they were somewhat fortunate as Al Hilal Omdurman defeated Mouloudia, allowing the Lushois side to sit in third place with two points, just behind the Algerian club, which has four points. Local Sports CAF Champions League 2024-2025: No Wins Yet for the 2 Congolese Teams After 3 Matches | Football Ademola Lookman Reflects on Switching Allegiance to Nigeria | Football Zimbabwean Football Legend's Luxury Gift Sparks Public Outrage Kenyan Federation Elections Hussein Mohammed: The New Hope for Kenyan Football Related Posts CAF Champions League 2024-2025: No Wins Yet for the 2 Congolese Teams After 3 Matches Local Sports . Ademola Lookman Reflects on Switching Allegiance to Nigeria | Football . Zimbabwean Football Legend's Luxury Gift Sparks Public Outrage | Football . Hussein Mohammed: The New Hope for Kenyan Football Kenyan Federation Elections .

Apple is reportedly developing foldable iPhone and iPad models louis Buyisiwe Dec 15, 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link foldable-iphone-ios-16 Apple is reportedly working on foldable iPhone and iPad models, marking a potential leap forward for its mobile devices, according to multiple reports on Sunday. The Wall Street Journal highlights that Apple is planning to release two foldable devices in the coming years. One is a larger device with a 19-inch screen, designed to compete with desktop monitors. The other is a smaller model, resembling a foldable iPhone with a screen larger than the iPhone 16 Pro Max. The foldable iPhone is expected to launch first, potentially in 2026, though delays could push the release to 2027. Bloomberg describes the larger device as a massive iPad, saying it has been the main focus of Apple's foldable development. At the same time, the company has been “exploring” the concept of a foldable iPhone. Notably, the team is working towards eliminating the visible crease that current foldable screens often have when opened. Both reports indicate that Apple has been developing these devices for years, signaling its commitment to perfecting foldable technology. Tech News iOS Apple is reportedly developing foldable iPhone and iPad models . Business and Industry Thika Cloth Mills Boosts Kenya’s Cotton Industry . Banking and Finance Northern Senators debated Tax Reform Bills aimed at easing tax burdens, boosting local revenue . Samsung Galaxy Z Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 6, Z Flip 6, Watch 7, Watch Ultra, Buds 3, and Buds 3 Pro Debut at Unpacked Event . Related Posts Tech News iOS Apple is reportedly developing foldable iPhone and iPad models . Business and Industry Thika Cloth Mills Boosts Kenya’s Cotton Industry . Banking and Finance Northern Senators debated Tax Reform Bills aimed at easing tax burdens, boosting local revenue . Samsung Galaxy Z Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 6, Z Flip 6, Watch 7, Watch Ultra, Buds 3, and Buds 3 Pro Debut at Unpacked Event .