President William Ruto Suspends School Reopening Amid Flood Crisis in Kenya Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Author Name 1/1/2035 ​ Kenya, President William Ruto In response to the severe flooding impacting large parts of Kenya, President William Ruto has announced an indefinite postponement of school reopenings nationwide. The decision, aimed at ensuring the safety and preparedness of educational facilities, comes as many schools have been damaged by the ongoing natural disaster. During a press briefing on April 3, President Ruto urged Members of Parliament to redirect more funds from the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) towards the reconstruction of affected school infrastructures. This move is critical to support the extensive repairs needed in the wake of the floods. "The Ministry of Education is directed to postpone the dates of reopening of all schools in the country for the second term until further notice," stated Ruto, emphasizing the government's commitment to student safety and educational integrity. Further addressing the nation, Ruto praised the community spirit and the efforts of institutional volunteers who have rallied to assist during this crisis. He also made a strong appeal to the public to heed safety alerts and avoid dangerous behaviors such as crossing flooded paths or driving on waterlogged roads. Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu also highlighted the issue, issuing new guidelines for school reopening originally scheduled for May 6. These guidelines involve collaboration with National Government Administration Officers to secure alternative accommodations for those displaced by the floods, including using some schools as temporary shelters. The government's focus remains on ensuring the safety of its citizens and minimizing the educational disruption caused by the floods. President Ruto's call to action reflects an urgent need for community cooperation and legislative support to navigate this challenging period effectively. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

MTN Group exists two west African countries to focus on high-growth markets Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Author Name 1/1/2035 ​ The divestiture comes after MTN Guinea-Bissau's financial challenges, highlighted by a significant loss of R1.69 billion ($89.39 million) due to adverse EBITDA performance and currency translation impacts Johannesburg – MTN Group, the leading telecom operator in Africa, is refocusing its strategy on high-growth markets, announcing the divestiture of its operations in Guinea-Bissau and Guinea-Conakry. The move, part of the company's strategic reorientation, was disclosed in its 2023 financial statements. Telecel, a prominent telecom entity with widespread operations across Africa, has acquired MTN's stakes in these markets for an undisclosed sum. This transition aligns with MTN's objective to consolidate its resources and bolster its presence in more lucrative markets within the West and Central Africa (WECA) region. The divestiture comes after MTN Guinea-Bissau's financial challenges, highlighted by a significant loss of R1.69 billion ($89.39 million) due to adverse EBITDA performance and currency translation impacts. This decision underscores MTN's commitment to optimizing its portfolio for enhanced profitability and shareholder value. With a strategic pivot towards Ghana, Cameroon, and Cote d’Ivoire, which collectively contribute significantly to the group's revenue, MTN is poised to fortify its market leadership in the region. This streamlined focus is expected to drive sustainable growth and technological advancement in its key markets, reaffirming MTN's dedication to connecting the African continent . More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Egyptian Soccer Star Ahmed Refaat Passes Away at 31 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Author Name 1/1/2035 Egyptian soccer star Ahmed Refaat reacts during a match, capturing a poignant moment before his tragic passing at age 31 following a heart attack during an Egyptian Premier League game in March. Credit:gettyimages Ahmed Refaat, a celebrated player for the Egyptian national team and Modern Future FC, has tragically passed away at the age of 31. His club confirmed the news on Saturday, following complications from a heart attack suffered during an Egyptian Premier League match in March. Refaat collapsed in the 88th minute of the match against Al-Ittihad Alexandria on March 11, prompting immediate medical attention and subsequent placement in an intensive care unit. Despite being fitted with a pacemaker and discharged a month later to continue treatment, Refaat's health deteriorated significantly. In a heartfelt statement, Modern Future FC announced, "Ahmed Refaat, first team and Egyptian national team player, has passed away due to a serious deterioration in his health. He was transferred to the hospital and tragically succumbed to his condition following a prolonged battle after the health crisis on March 11, 2024." Refaat's passing has elicited tributes from across the football community. Egyptian national team captain and Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah expressed his condolences on X, formerly known as Twitter, saying, "May God continue to bless his family and all his loved ones." Refaat's death marks a profound loss for Egyptian football and his fans worldwide. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

The Criticisms of Rwanda's Security Forces Composition and the Echoes of Apartheid Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Author Name 1/1/2035 ​ police officers after training all majority are Tutsis Critics suggest that Rwanda's socio-political setup mirrors apartheid due to the ethnic composition of its security forces, where the Tutsi minority predominantly occupies positions despite the Hutu making up about 85% of the population. This imbalance has sparked accusations of systemic discrimination and echoes the segregation seen in historical apartheid in South Africa. Since the 1994 genocide, Rwanda has made strides in reconciliation and development, but the Tutsi dominance in security raises inclusivity and fairness concerns. Critics fear that prioritizing security could marginalize other ethnic groups, potentially destabilizing the nation. The Rwandan government prioritizes stability post-genocide, but overemphasizing security may neglect freedoms and equality, risking future divisions. Additionally, the lack of ethnic diversity in security forces could foster impunity and weaken democratic governance, suggesting that a more representative force could enhance national cohesion and legitimacy list of high-ranking officers in Rwanda which are all Tutsis, Photo Social media More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Uganda Begins Ninth Population Census Amid Technical Difficulties Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Author Name 1/1/2035 ​ Two Ugandan men dressed in census personnels jackets On Friday, Uganda launched its ninth population census, an event that follows recent censuses in neighboring East African countries such as Tanzania, Rwanda, and Kenya. This regional trend reflects significant demographic changes over the past decade. However, the start of Uganda's census faced multiple challenges, including issues with the digital tools used in data collection. Faulty tablets, language barriers, public reluctance, adverse weather conditions, identification problems, and delayed payments have hampered the progress of this 10-day census, budgeted at Ush333 billion ($88 million). Despite these setbacks and the declaration of a public holiday to facilitate participation, little progress was noted by Friday afternoon. The census management was quick to address these issues, with Alfred Geresom Musamali, the Publicity and Advocacy Advisor for the National Population and Housing Census 2024, apologizing for the early delays. "We are encountering some technical difficulties with the Computer Aided Personal Interview (CAPI) machines, which are being used for the first time," Musamali explained, adding that efforts were ongoing to resolve these issues. Dr. Chris Mukiza, the executive director of the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (Ubos), reported that the census technology upgrade included the purchase of 120,000 portable personal computers with touch screens, acquired for Ush132 billion ($34m) through a United Nations-backed procurement process. The census is a decennial event in Uganda, with the first held in 1911. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni emphasized the importance of the census during the launch at Kololo Independence Grounds, stating that it provides essential data for government planning. The insights from the census are expected to guide the evaluation of the National Development Plan III, which concludes in July, and will inform the development of future national strategies. This year's census aims to answer critical questions about Uganda’s estimated 45.5 million residents: their numbers, locations, conditions, possessions, and access to services. The data gathered will play a crucial role in shaping Uganda's socio-economic strategies moving forward. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Binder from South Africa Kicks Off New Season with a Second-Place Finish at Qatar MotoGP Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Author Name 1/1/2035 ​ Brad Binder, the talented South African rider, kicked off the 2022 MotoGP season in style by securing an impressive second place at the Qatar Grand Prix. Image from Citizen In a thrilling start to the MotoGP season , South Africa's Brad Binder clinched an impressive second place at the Qatar MotoGP on Sunday. Beginning the race from the fourth position, Binder quickly escalated to second place, overtaking Jorge Martin, only to briefly lose and then regain his position from the Spanish rider, maintaining it for the remainder of the race. While defending champion Francesco Bagnaia led comfortably from start to finish, claiming the victory, Binder showcased remarkable performance, narrowing the gap with Bagnaia towards the race's end, though an overtaking move remained elusive. Expressing his excitement, Binder remarked, "I'm super stoked, especially after also securing second in the sprint. It was a challenge to sustain till the end. I aimed to close in on 'Pecco' (Bagnaia), who performed flawlessly without a single error." The MotoGP season is set to continue in Portugal on March 24, with riders and fans eagerly anticipating the next race. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Kenya's Population to Level Off as Uganda and Somalia Grow sharply. Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Author Name 1/1/2035 ​ image showing a crowd of somalese Kenya is poised for a demographic shift, with fertility rates declining to below replacement levels, signaling a potential plateau in its population growth. In contrast, neighbors Uganda and Somalia are expected to see continued population increases, according to a study published in the Lancet journal. This shift is attributed to a significant drop in Kenya's total fertility rate, from eight children per woman in the 1950s to less than three today, with projections falling to 1.4 by 2100. The global study, part of the Global Burden of Disease, highlights a worldwide trend towards lower fertility rates, with more than half of all countries now below the 2.1 replacement level. For Kenya, this could mean a shrinking population without immigration, in stark contrast to the ongoing growth in Uganda and Somalia. The implications of these trends are profound, potentially affecting socio-economic structures, healthcare systems, and workforce dynamics. Kenya's challenge will be to adapt to these changes, balancing a declining birth rate with the needs of an aging population and a shrinking workforce. Meanwhile, the continued population growth in Uganda and Somalia presents a different set of challenges and opportunities for those nations. As global fertility rates evolve, countries will need innovative strategies to address the accompanying shifts in their demographic landscapes . More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

South Africa Faces Rising Unemployment Ahead of 2024 Election Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Author Name 1/1/2035 ​ South African youth insist on complaining about unemployment As South Africa approaches a pivotal national election on May 29, the country grapples with a surging unemployment rate, now at 32.9% in the first quarter of 2024, up from 32.1% at the end of 2023. According to recent data from Statistics South Africa, the number of unemployed individuals increased to 8.226 million in early 2024, up from 7.895 million in the previous quarter. This uptick in unemployment figures emerges as a major issue for voters just two weeks before the elections. The African National Congress (ANC), the ruling party since the end of apartheid, faces significant political challenges amid growing public dissatisfaction due to the worsening joblessness. Since their rise to power nearly three decades ago, the unemployment rate has escalated by approximately 10 percentage points. Additionally, the expanded definition of unemployment, which accounts for those who have stopped seeking work out of discouragement, also rose to 41.9% in the first three months of the year, up from 41.1% in the preceding quarter. With the ANC at risk of losing its majority, the upcoming election could be a turning point in South African politics , driven by the electorate's critical concern over increasing joblessness. This issue not only highlights the economic challenges facing the nation but also sets the stage for what could be a significant political shift. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Namibia Denies Visa Extension for Buganda King Mutebi II Amid Protests and Diplomatic Concerns Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Author Name 1/1/2035 King Mutebi II of Buganda, pictured in traditional regalia – The Namibian government has denied a request to extend the visa of King Mutebi II of Buganda, who has been in the country since April for medical treatment. The denial, announced by a Namibian international relations ministry official and reported by the state broadcaster NBC, is based on the country’s immigration law, which permits a maximum stay of 90 days per year for foreign citizens. The visa extension request was made by the medical center where King Mutebi II has been receiving treatment. This decision comes in the wake of recent protests by Ugandan activists at Namibian diplomatic missions. Demonstrations have been held demanding transparency about the king's stay, with activists protesting at the Namibian High Commission in the UK in May, calling for clarity on the king's condition and location to counteract kidnapping rumors. Namibian authorities have referred the matter to Buganda traditional authorities . Two weeks ago, Buganda chiefs traveled to Namibia to inquire about the king's health, which led to diplomatic tensions. The Ugandan President, Yoweri Museveni, criticized the chiefs' unauthorized visit, urging Ugandans to stop "embarrassing Uganda." The visiting delegation was briefly detained by Namibian officials. In response to the protests and diplomatic stir, King Mutebi II addressed his subjects in a video, assuring them of his improving health and hopeful return. Namibian foreign relations officer Erastus Hailwa stated that it is standard protocol for foreign nationals to depart after a 90-day stay. Uganda has acknowledged Namibia’s decision, with Foreign Minister Henry Oryem Okello emphasizing respect for Namibian laws and customs, noting that many have exploited the country’s hospitality. Buganda, the largest of Uganda's ancient kingdoms, holds significant cultural influence despite its lack of political power. The Namibian government’s decision has prompted mixed reactions, highlighting the delicate balance between respecting immigration laws and addressing diplomatic and cultural sensitivities. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Zimbabwe Imposes Fines on Businesses Not Complying with New Currency Exchange Rate Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Author Name 1/1/2035 ​ Reserve bank of Zimbabwe HARARE, May 10 – In a significant move to stabilize its economy, Zimbabwe has announced penalties for businesses that do not adhere to the official exchange rate for its new gold-backed currency, the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG). This development comes as the government intensifies efforts to establish the ZiG as a stable monetary unit amidst ongoing economic challenges. Under the new regulations, any business entity using an exchange rate that exceeds the set official rate of 13.5 ZiG per U.S. dollar will face a substantial fine of 200,000 ZiG (approximately $14,815). This policy was detailed in a government notice that surfaced on Thursday, highlighting measures against what is described as civil infringement for overcharging in foreign currency terms. Since its introduction in early April, the ZiG has been at the center of Zimbabwe's strategy to correct its volatile economic environment. The government has actively pursued illegal currency traders and is now enforcing the ZiG as the mandatory currency for all transactions, a decision underscored by recent economic directives from Zimbabwe’s Treasury. The enforcement follows widespread resistance from both formal and informal sectors, with reports of businesses charging premiums or outright rejecting the new currency. This marks Zimbabwe’s fourth attempt within a decade to establish a local currency, following the rapid devaluation of the Zimdollar, which was abandoned last month after losing 70% of its value since January. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Africa's A-List Shines at the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Author Name 1/1/2035 ​ African stars are set to light up the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards this year, with several top talents earning nominations. Leading the pack is South African singer Tyla, who has garnered triple nominations for Favorite Viral Song with her hit "Water," Favorite Breakout Artist, and Favorite Global Music Star (Africa). In the category for Favorite African Kids Influencer, South Africa’s Kairo faces strong competition from fellow South Africans Biko's Mana, and Nigeria's Dream Catchers Academy, DJ Wysei, and Boluwatife Balogun. Adding to the excitement, the event will be hosted by beloved characters SpongeBob SquarePants and Patrick Star, as the animated series celebrates its 25th anniversary. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

M23 Rebels Seize Key Smartphone Mineral Mining Town in Eastern Congo Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Author Name 1/1/2035 ​ M23 War lord Sultan Makenga In a significant development, the M23 rebel group , allegedly linked to Rwanda, has seized control of Rubaya , a mining town in eastern Congo. Rubaya is known for its deposits of tantalum , a key mineral used in the production of smartphones. The Situation in Rubaya Rubaya holds significant deposits of tantalum, which is extracted from coltan. This mineral plays a crucial role in smartphone manufacturing. Eastern Congo has been embroiled in a prolonged conflict involving over 100 armed groups vying for control of the mineral-rich region near the border with Rwanda. The violence in this area has led to one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, displacing approximately 7 million people, many of whom are beyond the reach of aid. The fall of Rubaya represents the embodiment of systemic plundering, where armed groups exploit valuable resources for their benefit. Recent months have witnessed increased fighting between M23 rebels and Congolese army forces. The United Nations plans to withdraw peacekeepers from the region by year-end. The rebels are reportedly advancing toward Goma , the largest city in eastern Congo and the capital of North Kivu province. Supply routes to Goma are currently blocked. Regional Dynamics Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi accuses Rwanda of destabilizing Congo by backing the M23 rebels. U.N. experts and the U.S. State Department have also made similar claims, although Rwanda denies them. French President Emmanuel Macron recently urged Rwanda to halt its support for the M23 rebel group during a joint press conference with President Tshisekedi in Paris. The capture of Rubaya by the M23 rebels underscores the ongoing conflict and the strategic importance of controlling mining towns in the region. As tensions escalate and the situation remains volatile, the fate of Rubaya and its valuable mineral resources hangs in the balance. The international community closely monitors developments in this troubled corner of Africa. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024