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- Namibia Denies Visa Extension for Buganda King Mutebi II Amid Protests and Diplomatic Concerns
Namibia Denies Visa Extension for Buganda King Mutebi II Amid Protests and Diplomatic Concerns Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Jul 17, 2024 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
- Nollywood Actress Etinosa Idemudia Advocates for Abortion as a Solution to Lifelong Suffering
Nollywood Actress Etinosa Idemudia Advocates for Abortion as a Solution to Lifelong Suffering Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Apr 20, 2024 Etinosa Idemudia has passionately advocated for abortion as a means to spare unintended children from a life of suffering. Credit: Empireafrica In a thought-provoking series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), popular Nollywood actress Etinosa Idemudia has boldly expressed her unwavering support for abortion in Nigeria. She contends that, in certain circumstances, abortion is a more compassionate choice than subjecting children to a lifetime of hardship. Idemudia’s argument centers around the plight of innocent children who endure hunger and suffering. She questions the prevailing societal stance against abortion, emphasizing that these children never asked to be born into challenging circumstances. Her poignant question resonates: “If your own future is uncertain, why bring an innocent life into the world?” The actress challenges the romanticization of parental sacrifice, particularly the notion that a mother’s hunger and sacrifice somehow justify a child’s existence. She asserts that parents bear responsibility for their children and should not burden them with unnecessary suffering. Furthermore, Idemudia sheds light on the abuse faced by women who seek abortions. She criticizes partners who neglect contraception, leading to unplanned pregnancies. In her view, bringing a child into the world under such circumstances should be considered a crime. She advocates for empathy and understanding, recognizing that abortion can spare both parents and children from unnecessary struggles. While acknowledging the religious implications of abortion, Idemudia highlights its potential to alleviate suffering and prevent children from inheriting their parents’ mistakes. Her candid perspective has ignited a robust debate on the ethical and practical aspects of abortion and parental responsibility. As we engage in this discourse, it is essential to approach the topic with empathy and consider the complex realities faced by individuals in challenging circumstances. Abortion remains a deeply personal and multifaceted issue, and Idemudia’s advocacy encourages us to reflect on the well-being of both parents and children. 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
- Usain Bolt Discusses Premature Retirement and Gaining Perspective from Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce
Usain Bolt Discusses Premature Retirement and Gaining Perspective from Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Mar 26, 2024 Usain Bolt, World's fastest man in history. @pulse In a recent discussion with Athletics Weekly, Usain Bolt, the acclaimed fastest man in history, opened up about the advice he continually receives from his coach, Glen Mills, regarding his retirement decision. Mills frequently suggests that Bolt, who concluded his illustrious career in 2017 following the World Championships in London, might have retired prematurely. He points to Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce's successful return to track after maternity leave as a model Bolt could have emulated. "When I watch the girls compete like Shelly-Ann, I still get nervous. And my coach always says if Shelly-Ann could be doing this, then you could be, so I always laugh about that," Bolt shared, reflecting on his coach's perspective. Bolt, now 37, retired after securing a bronze medal in the 100m event at the 2017 World Championships, marking his final podium appearance and his first major defeat since 2007. The decision to retire, as Mills often remarks, could have been reconsidered, especially in light of Fraser-Pryce's impressive comeback post-parenthood at the same age. Despite stepping away from the competitive arena, Bolt admits to missing the unique adrenaline rush and the enthusiastic support from fans during events. "It's the crowd. The first entry into the stadium, they see you and scream. That first trial when you set your blocks, the energy picks up. So for me, It's just the adrenaline and the vibes, the energy. So that's something that I miss," he conveyed, reminiscing about the electric atmosphere of the stadium. On the other hand, Fraser-Pryce, a five-time world champion with a career spanning over fifteen years, has declared her intention to retire following the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. In an intimate revelation to Essence magazine, she cited her family's needs as the primary reason for her decision. “My son needs me. My husband and I have been together since before I won in 2008. He has sacrificed for me. We’re a partnership, a team. I think I now owe it to them to do something else,” Fraser-Pryce stated, highlighting her commitment to her family post-retirement. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce Celebrates World Championship Victory with her Son Zyon in 2019. @pulse 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
- Senegal Set to Host Africa's First Olympic Event
Senegal Set to Host Africa's First Olympic Event Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Apr 17, 2024 Africa is looking forward to hosting its inaugural Youth Olympic Games in 2026, which will take place in Dakar, Senegal's capital. Scheduled for October 31 to November 13, 2026, the upcoming Youth Olympic Games are set to gather the world's elite young athletes in Dakar, Senegal, to compete across 35 sports over a span of 14 days. Initially planned to coincide with the Dakar 2022 period, the Dakar en Jeux (Dakar in Games) festival has been a recurring annual event in the three host cities of Dakar, Diamniadio, and Saly. It serves not only as a lead-up to the 2026 games but also as a celebration of sport and culture, aimed at fostering greater youth participation in athletics. Thomas Bach, President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), has strongly endorsed Senegal's role as host for the Youth Olympic Games, emphasizing the continent's unity and rich sports culture. "With a youthful demographic and a deep-rooted passion for sports, the time is ripe for Africa, and particularly for Senegal," Bach stated in an Olympics.com report. During his 2022 visit to Senegal, Bach expressed his eagerness for the upcoming games, remarking, "We are looking forward to returning here to witness the first Olympic event on African soil—an event by Africa, with Africa, welcoming the world's youth to Senegal." Reflecting on the significance of the event, sports analyst Rufai Shuaib from Senegal commented, "Hosting the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar marks a pivotal moment in highlighting the vast capabilities and prospects of our young athletes on an international 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
- Human rights organizations and world leaders call for the release of Ingabire Victoire from 'open-air prison'
Human rights organizations and world leaders call for the release of Ingabire Victoire from 'open-air prison' Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond Jul 11, 2024 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
- Kenyan President Defends Use of Private Jet Amid Criticism
Kenyan President Defends Use of Private Jet Amid Criticism Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire May 31, 2024 Kenyan president and first lady descending off the private jet Kenya’s President William Ruto has addressed criticism over his recent use of a private jet to the US, stating the trip cost around 10 million shillings ($73,000; £60,000). He explained that "friends" of the country offered the plane at a discounted rate when he had initially opted for the national airline to save costs. Ruto dismissed claims that the Boeing 737-700 VIP plane cost $1.5 million, stating, "I am not a mad man." He had considered using Kenya Airways but accepted the private jet offer to minimize expenses. Despite his explanations, some Kenyans online questioned the transparency of the president’s actions, demanding to know the identity of these "friends." During his three-day state visit to the US, Kenya secured investment deals worth billions of dollars. However, critics suggested that Ruto should have used Kenya Airways. Ruto defended his decision, saying he was not willing to pay the $530,000 quoted for the cheapest available plane. Instead, friends offered the private jet for $73,000. He stressed his commitment to leading by example in fiscal responsibility. The controversy over Ruto’s trip comes amid growing concerns about government spending . Since taking office in 2022, Ruto has introduced several new taxes, sparking public anger. Critics argue that the government has been extravagant with taxpayer money, an accusation officials have consistently denied. As the president urges the public to "relax" and end the debate, questions about the appropriateness and transparency of accepting such offers persist among Kenyans. 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
- President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni recently met with Nicolas Terraz, President of Exploration and Production at TotalEnergie
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni recently met with Nicolas Terraz, President of Exploration and Production at TotalEnergie Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 23, 2024 President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni recently met with Nicolas Terraz, President of Exploration and Production at TotalEnergies, at the State House in Entebbe, Uganda. This meeting underscored the ongoing collaboration between the Ugandan government and TotalEnergies on the ambitious Tilenga project. During the visit, Terraz, who had just toured the Tilenga oil exploration sites, updated President Museveni on the project's progress. He highlighted the efficient advancement of drilling and pipeline construction, crucial components of the project. "The drilling and pipeline activities are going on very well," Terraz reported, indicating robust progress in these critical areas. One of the key points discussed was the project's substantial impact on local employment. Currently, the Tilenga project employs over 8,000 Ugandans, significantly contributing to local economic growth. This aligns with TotalEnergies' commitment to enhancing community welfare through job creation. President Museveni expressed strong support for the project, recognizing its potential to boost Uganda's economy. He assured Terraz of the government's continued backing, which is pivotal for the project's success. "I am confident that the Tilenga project will yield positive results for both Uganda and TotalEnergies," Museveni stated, emphasizing the strategic importance of this initiative. The meeting also included other high-ranking executives from TotalEnergies, such as Senior Vice President for Africa Mike Sangster, General Manager of TotalEnergies EP Uganda Philippe Groueix, Managing Director EACOP Martin Tiffen, and Deputy General Manager Mariam Nampeera. Ugandan Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa and Finance Minister Matia Kasaijja were also in attendance, highlighting the project's high-level engagement. The Tilenga project encompasses the development of six oil fields and the drilling of approximately 400 wells across 31 locations. The extracted oil will be transported to Tanzania's port of Tanga via a 1,443 km underground pipeline, marking a significant logistical undertaking. This strategic partnership between Uganda and TotalEnergies not only aims to harness natural resources for economic growth but also focuses on sustainable practices and local community benefits, setting a benchmark for future energy projects in the region. 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
- Burundi Discovers "Fabulous" Cassiterite Mine valued at over $50 billion Amid Socio-Economic Crisis
Burundi Discovers "Fabulous" Cassiterite Mine valued at over $50 billion Amid Socio-Economic Crisis Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 21, 2024 President Ndayishimiye Burundi, currently grappling with a severe socio-economic crisis marked by fuel, sugar, and medicine shortages, has found a beacon of hope in the recent discovery of a cassiterite mine. President Évariste Ndayishimiye visited the Bumeco (Burundi Metal Company) mine in Kirundo province on July 17, where the company's general manager, Gaspard Ngendakumana, revealed a massive find: a cassiterite and coltan mine with an estimated 12.7 million tons of cassiterite, valued at over $50 billion. The discovery, which reportedly dates back to Belgian colonial times, had been concealed post-independence, with the mine sealed and disguised as a nature reserve. President Ndayishimiye expressed outrage at this historical concealment, accusing former colonists of mocking Burundi's poverty. He proclaimed the mine's potential to uplift Burundi from its economic struggles, reaffirming his belief in the country's wealth and potential. 50 billion dollars? Enough to get Burundi out of its problems until the day of "last judgment", enthused Evariste Ndayishimiye the next day, before reminding the skeptics who did not believe him the first time when he said that "Burundi is the true Garden of Eden" of which the Bible speak Despite skepticism from some locals due to the lack of preliminary exploration studies, Ndayishimiye remains confident, reiterating his vision of Burundi as the "true Garden of Eden. 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
- President Tinubu Set for Senegal to Attend President-elect Faye's Inauguration
President Tinubu Set for Senegal to Attend President-elect Faye's Inauguration Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Griffith Sarah Apr 1, 2024 the Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, President Tinubu Bola President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria is set to travel to Dakar, Senegal, on April 2, 2024, for the inauguration of Bassirou Diomaye Faye, Senegal's President-elect. The trip is in response to an official invitation from the Republic of Senegal, highlighting the significance of this regional event. Tinubu's participation underscores Nigeria's commitment to fostering diplomatic ties within the ECOWAS region. As the Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, President Tinubu will be joining other regional leaders at the Diamniadio Exhibition Centre to witness the momentous occasion. This gathering of heads of state not only celebrates the democratic process but also strengthens the bonds between West African nations. Accompanied by Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, along with other senior government officials, President Tinubu's delegation signifies the importance Nigeria places on international relations and regional solidarity. Following the inauguration, the President and his delegation are expected to return to Nigeria, concluding this key diplomatic engagement . 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
- Tackling the Diversity Deficit in Football Coaching
Tackling the Diversity Deficit in Football Coaching Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Mar 27, 2024 Football Arena. @wallpapercave Racism's deep-seated presence in football, the world's most beloved sport, has long been a topic of concern, with players frequently facing racial abuse both on the field and online. Despite efforts by organizations such as FIFA and UEFA to combat player harassment, the glaring lack of diversity within the coaching echelons of major football clubs remains a critical issue yet to be addressed effectively. Delroy Corinaldi, co-founder of the Black Footballers Partnership in the UK, emphasized the importance of viewing this issue through a "Black lens." According to a 2022 report by the BFP, there exists a stark disparity in the representation of Black individuals in coaching roles compared to their prevalence on the field; about 43% of players in England's Premier League are Black, yet only 4% occupy coaching positions within English professional football, with a mere two Black managers in the Premier League. This under-representation extends beyond England, with similar patterns observed in France's Ligue 1, Italy's Serie A, and notably, none in the top leagues of Spain and Germany. Wilfried Nancy, the sole Black head coach in the MLS and leader of the Columbus Crew, expresses bewilderment at the scarcity of Black coaches despite the abundance of Black players, suggesting a disconnect in the transition from player to coach. The root of this issue may lie in the homogeneity of football's boardrooms. The English Football Association's leadership diversity code, introduced in 2020 to set hiring targets and combat inequality, reported in November that the diversity of the workforce still does not mirror that of the players. The Premier League's Coach Inclusion and Diversity Scheme, while a step forward, seems insufficient as the BFP's latest findings reveal a bias in managerial progression and job security against Black individuals. The impending vacancies for top coaching roles at prestigious clubs like Liverpool and Bayern Munich highlight the ongoing challenges. The anticipated frontrunner , Xabi Alonso, epitomizes the typical profile of candidates considered for such positions, further underscoring the industry's diversity issue. The rarity of Black managers at the helm of premier teams contrasts sharply with their prevalence in lower-tier positions, as seen in the careers of former England internationals Paul Ince and Sol Campbell. This disparity is starkly evident when juxtaposed with the career trajectories of their white counterparts, such as Frank Lampard. The journey for equality in football coaching is fraught with obstacles, but as Troy Deeney, former Premier League player and briefly a coach for Forest Green Rovers, asserts, the opportunity for growth and learning from mistakes is essential for progress. The industry must evolve to provide fair 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
- Season 9 of BBNaija Returns Featuring 'Dynamic Duos' Auditions: Key Details
Season 9 of BBNaija Returns Featuring 'Dynamic Duos' Auditions: Key Details Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Mar 27, 2024 The audition is complimentary and is set to commence today at 8:00 PM. @thesleak Exciting Announcement: Big Brother Naija Season 9 is introducing a captivating new format for auditions – "Dynamic Duos"! In a significant departure from previous seasons, this year's auditions will require participants to apply in pairs, promising an innovative twist in the selection process. For those interested in becoming part of this unique season, the application process involves creating a 3-minute video. The video should convincingly articulate why you and your partner are the perfect candidates to join the Big Brother House . While the video can feature both applicants together or individually, it must be compiled into a single submission. Key elements to include in your video are self-introductions, backgrounds, personality traits, interests, and how your duo's unique dynamic could enhance the Big Brother Naija experience. Authenticity and enjoyment are crucial—let your natural chemistry shine through without overreaching. Please note the following important details: 1.The audition process is entirely free of charge and opens today at 8:00 PM. 2.Applicants must be 21 years of age or older and possess valid identification. 3.All auditions must be conducted as a duo. 4. Submissions are accepted exclusively via africamagic.tv/bigbrother . For more detailed information and to apply, please visit the official Big Brother Naija website. Seize this opportunity to showcase the unique bond and personality that only you and your chosen partner can bring to Season 9 of Big Brother Naija. 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
- Kung Fu Gains Popularity in Africa
Kung Fu Gains Popularity in Africa Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Erin Brewer Jun 15, 2024 A rare soft-power export from China is spreading across the African continent, capturing the imagination of many. Master Mfaume, who heads the largest kung fu temple in Tanzania, has become a social-media sensation. His short films, featuring himself and his students demonstrating their lightning-fast moves, have garnered 184,000 likes on TikTok. These videos, which showcase them scaling walls and confronting bullies in the suburbs of Dar es Salaam, highlight a growing interest in the sport. "People are starting to learn kung fu eagerly—and the number of students is going up a lot," says Master Mfaume. The introduction of kung fu to Africa dates back to the 1970s, credited to a mysterious Taiwanese figure known as Mr. Ming. He popularized Bruce Lee’s martial arts by screening films in rundown township cinemas in South Africa. These films, which conveyed a powerful message against white supremacy, resonated deeply with audiences who cheered as Lee's character smashed a sign in Shanghai that read “No Dogs and Chinese Allowed.” Since then, both audiences and filmmakers across the continent have embraced kung fu, transforming it into a unique African film genre. Nollywood, Nigeria’s prolific film industry, has produced numerous low-budget kung fu movies. Mayor Uguseba, also known as Mr. Fantastic, is a notable figure in this genre. He produced, directed, and acted in “A Very Kung Fu Nollywood Movie: The Revenge of Sobei,” which he created for less than 50,000 naira ($34). In a 2017 survey of Cameroonian cinephiles, 79% expressed an interest in kung fu, and 85% said that films had drawn them to the sport. This growing fascination has led to the establishment of kung fu clubs across Africa, from the Shaolin Kung Fu Institute in Cape Town to the Ten Tigers of Nile Chinese Wushu Kung-fu Training Club in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Zambia recently hosted the first African Shaolin Kung Fu Games, attracting more than 150 fighters from 23 countries. Additionally, last November, 107 African fighters signed up for the World Wushu Championship in Texas, although few were granted visas. While South Korea has successfully exported its pop culture to Africa, China has faced challenges in converting its hard power into soft power. However, the rise of kung fu in Africa signifies a cultural victory for China, showcasing its influence on the sporting and cultural front. 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