Former UFC Champion Francis Ngannou Faces Tragic Loss of Young Son Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Author Name 1/1/2035 ​ Ngannou expressed his profound sorrow In a heart-wrenching announcement made via X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou shared the devastating news of his 15-month-old son Kobe's passing. Ngannou expressed his profound sorrow, stating, "Too soon to leave but yet he's gone. My little boy, my mate, my partner Kobe was full of life and joy. Now, he's laying without life. I shouted his name over and over but he's not responding." The Cameroonian fighter, known for his formidable presence in the ring, conveyed his emotional turmoil: "I was my best self next to him and now I have no clue of who I am. Life is so unfair to hit us where it hurts the most." The global sports community, including prominent figures like Conor McGregor, has rallied around Ngannou, offering condolences and support. McGregor responded to Ngannou's post, saying, "I am so sorry to hear of your loss Francis, my prayers are with you and your family at this time." Ngannou's manager, Marquel Martin, also expressed his grief online, noting that "millions of others" will be praying for the bereaved family. This tragic event follows Ngannou's recent defeat by Anthony Joshua in Saudi Arabia, a match that marked a significant moment in his career following his decision to move away from MMA. Francis Ngannou's journey has been one of incredible highs and devastating lows, both in his professional and personal life. As the sports world mourns with Ngannou, his resilience and strength remain at the forefront of conversations among fans and fellow athletes alike. 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

Global Economist Jeffrey Sachs in Uganda for Key Talks with President Museveni Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Author Name 1/1/2035 ​ Professor Jeffrey Sachs, a luminary in global economics and sustainable development, has commenced a landmark three-day visit to Uganda. Invited by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, Sachs' journey from the U.S. to Uganda symbolizes a bridge between global expertise and local aspirations. Upon arrival, Sachs, alongside his spouse Dr. Sonia Sachs, was greeted by the Prime Minister in Kampala. This visit isn't just a formality; it's a meeting of minds, with Uganda's top officials like Investment Minister Evelyn Anite and Public Service Minister Grace Mary Mugasa engaging in crucial talks with Sachs. Sachs isn't here for sightseeing. His agenda is packed with high-level discussions with President Museveni, First Lady Janet Museveni, and other key figures. A highlight is the policy dialogue at Makerere University, focusing on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), showcasing Sachs' commitment to actionable change. Sachs isn't just any expert. As the brain behind the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network and a guiding force for several UN Secretaries-General, his work in poverty eradication, climate change, and economic stability has touched lives worldwide, earning him global accolades like the Blue Planet Prize. At Columbia University, Sachs continues to inspire as the Director of the Center for Sustainable Development, holding the prestigious title of University Professor. His leadership at the Earth Institute has left a lasting impact across 125 countries, making him a true global citizen. What do you think about Sachs' visit to Uganda? How can global expertise fuel local development? Share your thoughts using #xtrafrica and let's spark a dialogue on sustainable development that benefits us all! 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 Enhances Mombasa Port Connectivity for East Africa Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Author Name 1/1/2035 ​ Mombasa Port's East African engine for trade connections Regional Logistics Kenya is taking decisive steps to improve the operational efficiency at the Port of Mombasa, aiming to persuade Uganda, Rwanda, and South Sudan to utilize this strategic maritime gateway more effectively. By streamlining clearing processes and introducing technological advancements in billing and cargo tracking, Kenya seeks to enhance the ease of trade for its landlocked neighbors. Infrastructure Upgrades and Technological Innovations The adoption of cutting-edge technologies at the Mombasa Port is central to Kenya's strategy to boost its appeal. Enhanced cargo processing systems and the incorporation of digital tracking are expected to minimize delays and losses, thereby ensuring a smoother trade flow. This technological leap is poised to redefine the logistics landscape, offering unparalleled efficiency and reliability. Revitalizing Rail Connectivity A key component of Kenya's outreach involves the revival of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project, in collaboration with Uganda. This infrastructure project aims to establish a direct rail link from the Mombasa Port to Kampala, with future extensions to Rwanda and South Sudan. By improving rail connectivity, Kenya and Uganda are laying the groundwork for a more integrated and efficient regional transport network. 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

Burna Boy Breaks Record for Highest-Grossing Concert by an African Artist in the U.S Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Author Name 1/1/2035 ​ After releasing his 2023 album I Told Them , Burna Boy embarked on a global tour, selling out iconic venues across America, Europe, and the Caribbean. In a record-breaking achievement, Burna Boy has set a new milestone for the highest-grossing concert by an African artist in the United States. According to Touring Data, in a post shared on June 13, 2024, Burna Boy grossed an impressive $1.725 million during his I Told Them tour at the Capital One Arena in Washington on March 7, 2024. This accomplishment surpasses his previous record set at the TD Garden in Boston. Burna Boy's historic achievement underscores his status as a leading African artist on the global stage, continually setting new benchmarks for African musicians. Earlier this year, Burna Boy made history as the first African artist to perform at the Grammy main ceremony. He took the stage alongside 21 Savage and Brandy for a performance of his hit single "Sittin' On Top Of The World". At the 66th Grammy Awards, he also became the first Nigerian artist to receive a nomination outside of the global categories, with "Sittin' On Top Of The World" earning a nod for Best Melodic Rap Performance. Burna Boy has started 2024 on a high note, featuring on the remix of Titom & Yuppe's "Twala Bam". This remix made history as the first South African lead song to reach the top of the TurnTable Top 100 chart. Burna Boy's continued success and record-breaking feats are a testament to his influence and stature as a global African artist, constantly paving the way and achieving many firsts in the music industry. 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

Ethiopia Sets Sights on E-Government and E-Commerce Initiatives Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Author Name 1/1/2035 ​ A symbolyic image depicting ethiopians paying electronically Ethiopia is making significant strides towards digital transformation, with a focus on e-government and e-commerce initiatives, according to the Ministry of Innovation and Technology (MinT). In a recent panel discussion, MinT Minister Belete Molla highlighted the country's progress in aligning its digital strategies with the Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda. Over the past three years, Ethiopia has revised policy frameworks, expanded telecom infrastructure, and launched over 587 digital platforms, driving substantial local and international investment. These initiatives are aimed at enhancing accessibility to online services and fostering economic growth. Key achievements include the implementation of digital IDs, digital payment systems, and financial technology services, contributing to job creation, foreign exchange generation, and overall economic development. The government's commitment to supporting startups and creating a digitally skilled workforce further underscores Ethiopia's dedication to sustainable digital advancement . 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

Human rights organizations and world leaders call for the release of Ingabire Victoire from 'open-air prison' Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Author Name 1/1/2035 Victoire Ingabire Umuhoza (left) and President Paul Kagame (right). Human rights, legal, and civil society organizations are calling on heads of state worldwide to urge Rwandan President Paul Kagame to permit opposition leader Victoire Ingabire Umuhoza the right to reunite with her family. Victoire Ingabire Umuhoza has faced relentless persecution from President Kagame’s regime for over a decade. Background of Persecution Victoire's persecution began 14 years ago, involving her arrest and conviction after a trial widely condemned as politically motivated and unfair. The African Court of Human and People's Rights ruled that the Rwandan government violated her right to freedom of expression. Despite this, she spent eight years in prison, including five in solitary confinement. After receiving a presidential pardon in 2018, Victoire now lives in an "open-air prison," stripped of civil and political rights, and unable to leave Rwanda. This restriction has prevented her from attending her children's weddings, witnessing the births of her grandchildren, and being with her husband during his final days. Call for Global Solidarity As Rwanda approaches its presidential elections on July 15, 2024, it is expected that President Kagame will claim a landslide victory. During this time, he will likely receive congratulatory calls from numerous world leaders. The Lantos Foundation joins African civic and democratic groups in a global humanitarian appeal, urging these leaders to include a "call for Victoire" in their victory messages to Kagame. This appeal demands that Kagame allow Victoire to visit her gravely ill husband in Europe and restore her human rights, especially the right to be with her family. Broader Context of Political Oppression Victoire’s plight is not an isolated incident. Across the world, many politicians face imprisonment and persecution for opposing authoritarian regimes. In Belarus, opposition leader Maria Kolesnikova was sentenced to 11 years in prison for her role in protests against President Alexander Lukashenko. In Russia, Alexei Navalny has been repeatedly jailed for his outspoken criticism of President Vladimir Putin. These cases highlight a troubling trend where governments suppress dissent and curtail democratic freedoms. A Call for Freedom The international community must stand with Victoire Ingabire Umuhoza and others who are unjustly persecuted for their political beliefs. By urging President Kagame to allow Victoire to reunite with her family, world leaders can send a powerful message in support of human rights and political freedom. The global appeal aims to draw attention to her suffering and prompt influential governments to pressure Kagame to do the right thing. Victoire’s freedom is a step toward justice and respect for human rights in Rwanda and beyond. 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

Victor Osimhen and Tobi Amusan Join Forbes' 30 Under 30 Class of 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Author Name 1/1/2035 ​ Only two Nigerian athletes secured spots on the prestigious Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 list for 2024. Credit: GettyImages Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen and track star Tobi Amusan have been recognized as part of the Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 Class of 2024, highlighting their athletic achievements and impactful contributions both within and beyond their sports. Their selection not only celebrates their professional success but also their roles as community influencers and national icons in Nigeria. This year's selection process by Forbes Africa was particularly rigorous, involving a panel of high-profile judges and experts, along with contributions from previous honorees, to identify truly deserving young talents across the continent. Osimhen and Amusan are the only Nigerian athletes to make this prestigious list, underscoring Nigeria's strong presence in the international sports arena. Osimhen, at 25, has become the highest-paid Nigerian footballer following a significant contract with Napoli in December 2023. Similarly, 26-year-old Amusan has risen to become the top-paid Nigerian in track and field, securing multiple endorsement deals thanks to her continued dominance in the sport. Their careers are characterized by resilience, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to their disciplines. The inclusion of these athletes in the Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 roster not only marks personal milestones but also reflects the vast potential and rich talent pool within Africa. Their stories of perseverance and success are set to inspire a new generation of athletes to chase their dreams with determination, further elevating the continent's standing on the global sports stage. 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

Davido Opens Up About His Relationship with WizKid and Burna Boy in New Interview Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Author Name 1/1/2035 ​ Instagram/@wizikidayo@davido@burnaboygram In the dynamic realm of celebrity where rivalries abound and alliances are ever-changing, the phenomenon of successful stars maintaining genuine connections amidst competitive pressures is notably rare. This rings true for the Afrobeats scene, particularly among its acclaimed 'big 3'—Davido, Wizkid, and Burna Boy. Recently, Davido offered an insightful glimpse into his relationships with his fellow artists during an appearance on the show "Sway’s Universe." As a guest on the popular American program, the Nigerian music star, known for hits like “Unavailable,” discussed the nuances of his interactions with Wizkid and Burna Boy. Addressing the frequency of their communication, Davido admitted that they do not regularly stay in touch, despite having each other's contact information and acknowledging their different backgrounds. Davido emphasized the geographical separation between them, noting that each artist represents different regions of Nigeria. However, he affirmed that despite the physical and professional distances, they all share the common thread of divine blessings that have propelled their careers in music. During the interview, Davido also addressed the perception that he, along with Wizkid and Burna Boy, are the leading trio in the global Afrobeats arena. Challenging this notion, he made a bold declaration about his status within the industry. "I am big me," Davido asserted, distinguishing himself as a singular force in the Afrobeats scene. This candid revelation from Davido adds a new layer to the understanding of the relationships and competitive dynamics among these top artists in the music industry. 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's Central Bankvows to Revitalize the Economy and Restore Investor Confidence Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Author Name 1/1/2035 ​ Zimbabwe’s central bank governor, John Mushayavanhu Zimbabwe's Central Bank Introduces the ZiG to Revitalize the Economy and Restore Investor Confidence Zimbabwe’s central bank governor, John Mushayavanhu, has taken decisive action to restore trust in the nation's financial institution with the rollout of a new strategy dubbed the 'Back to Basics' plan. This initiative is centered on the introduction of a new national currency, the ZiG (Zimbabwe Gold), which aims to consolidate economic stability and regain investor confidence. The Introduction of the ZiG and Economic Stabilization Officially introduced on April 5, the ZiG is backed by gold and a mix of foreign currencies, representing Zimbabwe's sixth attempt since 2008 to establish a stable local currency. The new currency, equivalent to about 7 US cents per milligram of gold, has appreciated by 1.5% and was trading at 13.36 per US dollar, according to the latest data from the central bank. This move is a part of a broader effort to address the severe economic challenges that have led to significant inflation and loss of value in previous currencies. Strategic Reforms and Interest Rate Adjustments Mushayavanhu, also referred to as "John the Second" by peers, is implementing various reforms to enhance the central bank's operations. These include plugging financial leakages and restructuring the bank's balance sheet to mitigate short-term economic pressures. Additionally, a new interest rate was set at 20%, a drastic reduction from the previous 130%, which was the highest central bank rate globally. Future Outlook and Measures to Sustain Economic Growth The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe is also focusing on improving the transparency and reliability of economic data. It plans to appoint a panel to monitor the effectiveness of its monetary policies continually. This is part of a broader strategy to ensure that the ZiG remains a viable currency option and to prevent the recurrence of hyperinflation that has previously devastated the Zimbabwean economy. A New Era for Zimbabwe's Economy With the introduction of the ZiG and substantial policy reforms, Zimbabwe's central bank is poised to rebuild its credibility and enhance its relevance in the global economic landscape. These efforts are critical in fostering a stable economic environment that will attract both local and international investors . 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

Portable Claims Superiority Over BNXN Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Author Name 1/1/2035 ​ Nigerian Music Artist Portable(on the right) Claims Superiority Over BNXN on Social Media. Image/@toyourears@portablesbaeby In a recent social media declaration, Nigerian music sensation Habeeb Okikiola, known professionally as Portable, has asserted his dominance in the music industry over fellow artist Buju BNXN. Leveraging his substantial social media presence, Portable emphasized his larger follower count as evidence of his superior status within the music scene. Portable, who has rapidly risen to fame in under three years, boasts an impressive 2.6 million followers on Instagram, surpassing BNXN's 1.9 million. Utilizing his Instagram story , Portable presented a strong argument for his prominence, firmly refuting any suggestions of unorthodox methods behind his success. He attributed his achievements to "sheer grace," dismissing common attributions of success to occult practices. The artist, also a father of five, vocalized his frustration with the common misconception that success in the music industry is often tied to nefarious activities. Portable's statement, "I don’t fake to make it. I don’t fake my lifestyle. Ika of Africa. OBO Eyan DPO ZehNation many many many inspiration. Street ti tame over 10/10 level don change," underscores his claim to authenticity and hard-earned success. This bold proclamation by Portable not only highlights the competitive nature of the Nigerian music industry but also sheds light on the artist's confidence in his craft and his journey to fame. As the music community reacts to Portable's assertions, the spotlight remains on both artists as they continue to shape their careers and influence within the industry. 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

Tensions Flare Between Mohamed Salah and Jurgen Klopp During Liverpool's Match Against West Ham Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Author Name 1/1/2035 ​ Liverpool's star forward, Mohamed Salah, expressed significant discontent after a touchline dispute with manager Jurgen Klopp In a dramatic scene at West Ham's stadium, Liverpool's star forward, Mohamed Salah, expressed significant discontent after a touchline dispute with manager Jurgen Klopp during their Premier League clash, which ended in a 2-2 draw. This incident has sparked widespread speculation about the internal dynamics within the club as they face a challenging end to their season. Details of the Incident The tension unfolded when Salah was set to enter the match as a substitute in the 79th minute. Evidently upset, Salah engaged in a heated exchange with Klopp, which did not subside immediately, prompting intervention from teammates Darwin Nunez and Joe Gomez. Post-Match Reactions Salah's frustration was palpable post-match when he cryptically warned of potential repercussions if he chose to speak openly about the incident, stating, "If I speak there will be fire." Klopp, on his part, chose to keep the specifics of their altercation under wraps, emphasizing that any issues had been resolved internally after the game. Expert Opinions Commentators such as Peter Crouch and Ally McCoist weighed in on the situation, noting the unusual nature of the dispute for a club like Liverpool and hinting at potential broader implications for Salah's future with the team. Salah, who has been a pivotal figure for Liverpool, scoring 210 goals over seven seasons, faces ongoing speculation about his next moves, especially with his contract set to expire next season. Club Management Changes Amidst this backdrop, Liverpool is preparing for a significant transition, with Klopp announcing his departure at the season's end and the club finalizing a deal with Feyenoord for their manager Arne Slot, involving compensation up to £9.4 million. As Liverpool grapples with these internal challenges and a fading title hope, the focus remains on how they navigate the remaining fixtures and manage the evolving dynamics within the squad. Fans and pundits alike will be keenly watching how these developments impact team morale and performance in the crucial stages of the season. 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

An African Man Told He Is Not British After staying 42 Years in UK Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Author Name 1/1/2035 ​ A 74-year-old Ghanaian man, Nelson Shardey A 74-year-old Ghanaian man, Nelson Shardey, who has lived in the UK for nearly 50 years, must wait another decade before the Home Office will allow him to stay permanently. Shardey, a retired newsagent from Wallasey in Wirral, believed he was recognized as British until 2019 when he discovered otherwise. Shardey first came to the UK in 1977 on a student visa to study accountancy but had to take various jobs after a coup in Ghana cut off his financial support. He worked in factories and eventually ran his own business, a newsagent called Nelson's News. He married twice, both times to British women, and raised two sons, both of whom have successful careers. Despite paying taxes and contributing to the community , including performing jury service and receiving a police bravery award in 2007, Shardey was told in 2019 that he was not British when he applied for a passport to visit Ghana following his mother's death. The Home Office instructed him to apply for the 10-year route to settlement, which costs about £7,000 plus an additional £10,500 for NHS access. Shardey, who is recovering from prostate cancer, cannot afford these fees and sees the process as unfair, given his long-term residence and contributions to the UK. An error in his initial application has reset the process, delaying his chance for permanent residency until he is 84. With the support of Nicola Burgess from the Greater Manchester Immigration Aid Unit (GMIAU), Shardey is taking the Home Office to court, arguing that his long residence and community contributions warrant an exception. His sons are crowdfunding to cover legal costs. The Home Office has declined to comment on the ongoing legal case. 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