UN Report: Migrant Expulsions from Tunisia to Libya Lead to Extortion and Abuse Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Jun 12, 2024 ​ Migrant expulsions from Tunisia to Libya are leading to severe abuse, forced labor, and extortion, according to a confidential UN human rights briefing seen by Reuters. Tunisian border guards have been rounding up migrants and handing them over to Libyan counterparts, where they face dire conditions. The report, dated January 23, was based on interviews with former detainees and visual evidence of torture. Tarek Lamloum, a Libyan human rights expert, confirmed such transfers occurred as recently as early May, involving about 2,000 migrants this year. The UN briefing, which has not been previously reported, highlighted how these collective expulsions and arbitrary detentions are exacerbating human rights abuses in Libya, including extortion by officials demanding thousands of dollars for migrant releases. The European Union, which partners with Tunisia and Libya to curb Mediterranean migration , has allocated 800 million euros through 2024 for this effort. However, rights groups criticize this approach, arguing it fosters abuse and ignores root causes. The UN has documented crimes against humanity in some Libyan detention centers, which receive EU backing. Migrants, predominantly from Palestine, Syria, Sudan, and South Sudan, face abysmal conditions in Libyan detention centers such as al-Assa and Bir al-Ghanam. Reports describe overcrowded, unsanitary facilities and extreme abuse, including torture and killings by border guards. The UN briefing calls for a shift in migration and border management policies, emphasizing the need for Libya to decriminalize illegal entry and for international border management support to adhere to human rights standards. Neither Libyan nor Tunisian authorities have commented on the report. 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

African Development Bank Chief's advice to avoid Natural Resource-Backed Loans Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 13, 2024 ​ Akinwumi Adesina, the President of the African Development Bank The President of the African Development Bank, has strongly advised against the continuation of natural resource-backed loans by African nations, labeling them as detrimental and unsustainable. In a recent interview with the Associated Press, Adesina highlighted the complexities and inherent risks of these financial arrangements, which have surged due to increased demand for critical minerals essential for renewable energy and electric vehicles. Adesina pointed out the primary challenges with natural resource-backed loans: the difficulty in accurately pricing underground assets such as minerals, oil, and gas, and the asymmetric nature of negotiations that typically favor lenders. These loans are often secured with the promise of future natural resource exports, aimed at financing infrastructural developments but end up placing recipient countries in disadvantageous positions. The bank's initiative to assist African countries in renegotiating such loans comes as a response to the numerous issues that arise from these deals, including a lack of transparency, potential for corruption, and a significant power imbalance that can lead to exploitative terms. Adesina emphasized the need for transparency and fair valuation in loan agreements to prevent exploitation and ensure sustainable debt management. The issue has become particularly pressing as countries like Chad have faced severe financial crises due to the burdensome repayments of oil-backed loans. With at least 11 African countries engaged in such financial arrangements, primarily with China and Western entities like Glencore, Trafigura, and Standard Chartered, the call for a reevaluation of these loans is growing louder. The African Development Bank's stance reflects a broader concern over the impact of natural resource-backed loans on the economic stability and sovereignty of African nations. As the continent moves towards sustainable development, the push for fairer and more transparent financial practices is gaining momentum. 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

Ghana Consumer Inflation Slows to 22.8% in June Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 10, 2024 Inflation rate eased for the third consecutive month Ghana's consumer inflation rate eased for the third consecutive month, reaching 22.8% year-on-year in June, down from 23.1% in May, according to the Ghana Statistical Service (GHCPIY=ECI). Key Factors Behind the Decline Government Statistician Samuel Kobina Annim highlighted that the decline in June's inflation rate was primarily driven by a reduction in non-food inflation, which fell to 21.6%. This decrease effectively offset the increase in food inflation. Economic Context Ghana, a major producer of cocoa, gold, and oil, is striving to recover from a significant economic crisis. The country recently cleared a major obstacle in restructuring its international bonds. Official creditors confirmed that the proposed debt rework was not overly favourable to bondholders, marking a critical step in Ghana's economic recovery process. 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

Fans React to Burna Boy's Feature on "Tshwala Bam" Remix Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire May 17, 2024 ​ Nigerian superstar Burna Boy The recent release of the "Tshwala Bam" remix, featuring Nigerian superstar Burna Boy, has stirred mixed reactions among fans of the original track by TitoM and Yuppe. Burna Boy, whose real name is Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu MFR, is a renowned Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record producer. This collaboration marks his second venture into South African music, following his popular remix of Master KG and Nomcebo Zikode's hit song "Jerusalema." The remix follows the viral success of "Tshwala Bam," which gained massive popularity thanks to a dance challenge on TikTok, amassing over 11.5 billion views. Fans are divided over the new version, with some appreciating the fresh take and others preferring the original. 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

Minister Reveals Illegitimate Honorary Degrees: Alert Issued to Public Figures Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Apr 22, 2024 ​ Pride and Scrutiny: Amid celebrations of honorary accolades, questions arise about the awarding institution's accreditation. Image:ewn.co.ze South Africa's Minister of Higher Education, Blade Nzimande, has brought to light the issue of unauthorized honorary degrees being awarded to prominent personalities, casting a shadow on Trinity International Bible University's legitimacy. This institution, currently not registered with the required authorities, has been conferring such degrees, sparking widespread debate following actor Sello Maake kaNcube's display of his honorary title. The debate gained traction after the 'Sowetan S Mag' reported the minister's clarification regarding the university's lack of accreditation and thus its inability to issue recognized qualifications. The Department of Higher Education and Training has taken a definitive stance on the matter, highlighting the potential repercussions for the integrity of South Africa's educational qualifications. Veli Mbele, spokesperson for the department, has voiced serious concerns about the ongoing breach of educational regulations by the Trinity International Bible University. The department is reportedly contemplating significant measures against this institution and others that undermine regulatory compliance. These actions aim to protect the sanctity of the nation's educational framework and ensure that qualifications maintain their value and respectability. The unfolding situation casts a spotlight on the need for greater scrutiny of educational practices and the vital role of regulatory bodies in maintaining high academic standards. As the story develops, the focus turns to how the Department of Higher Education and Training will address these breaches and uphold the country's education system's prestige and integrity. The unfolding events underscore the ongoing commitment to transparency and the enforcement of standards within South Africa's academic landscape. 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

Tshisekedi and Kagame agree to meet, Angola FM says Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Serge Kabongo Mar 12, 2024 ​ Rwanda and DRC Presidents to Hold Talks Mediated by Angola in Effort to Resolve Great Lakes Conflict In a significant development towards resolving the ongoing conflict in the Great Lakes region, the President of Rwanda, Paul Kagame, and his Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) counterpart, Félix Tshisekedi, have agreed to a meeting to address the issues between their respective countries. The announcement was made by the Angolan foreign minister, who will serve as the mediator to determine the date and place of the meeting. The conflict between Rwanda and the DRC has been a longstanding issue, with tensions escalating in recent years due to the resurgence of the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels in eastern DRC. The DRC has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebels, a claim that Rwanda has vehemently denied. The conflict has led to the displacement of over 100,000 people and caused significant humanitarian crises in the region. The upcoming meeting between President Kagame and President Tshisekedi is a crucial step towards finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The Angolan government, led by President João Lourenço, has been actively involved in mediating the crisis, with Lourenço being appointed as the African Union's mediator. The agreement to hold the meeting comes after a series of mini-summits and discussions between the two leaders, most recently during a meeting in Luanda, Angola's capital, between President Kagame and President Lourenco. The Angolan foreign minister, Tete Antonio, stated that both Rwanda and the DRC had agreed to the principle of holding the meeting, with ministerial delegations from both sides working towards this goal. The upcoming meeting presents an opportunity for both countries to address the allegations and explore avenues for constructive collaboration in resolving the crisis. The international community has welcomed the development, with many expressing hope that the meeting will pave the way for lasting peace and stability in the Great Lakes region. As the date and location of the meeting are yet to be determined, all eyes are on the Angolan mediator to facilitate a successful dialogue between the two leaders. The success of the meeting could have far-reaching implications for the region, potentially leading to the resolution of one of Africa's most complex and longstanding conflicts. 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

Cape Town International Airport Crowned Best in Africa Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 19, 2024 ​ Cape Town International Airport Cape Town International Airport has been distinguished as the premier airport in Africa, according to a recent survey by Skytrax, the renowned consumer ratings firm. This honor underscores the airport's commitment to outstanding customer service and operational excellence. Despite this regional triumph, Cape Town International has observed a descent in its global standing, now ranked 54th after being 23rd in 2020. This shift underscores the fluctuating nature of global air travel and the constant changes in aviation standards. Other South African airports also garnered accolades in the Skytrax survey, with Durban's King Shaka International Airport and OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg securing second and third places respectively on the African continent. These accolades affirm the sustained high standards across South Africa's airports, reinforcing their status as major entry points to the continent. Internationally, Addis Ababa Bole International Airport in Ethiopia achieved the seventh spot in the African rankings, marking Ethiopia's rise as a significant hub for international travel and commerce. Further north, Nairobi's Jomo Kenyatta International Airport clinched the 10th position, underscoring Kenya's pivotal role in East African aviation and its ongoing contribution to connecting the region with the global air transport network. The findings from the Skytrax survey provide insights into the latest trends influencing the African aviation sector. Airports across the continent are continually striving to improve passenger experiences and operational efficiencies in response to evolving industry conditions and increasing expectations from travelers . 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 Orders Audit of Liberia's Central Bank: A Tug of War Over Money and Rules Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Feb 27, 2024 ​ Liberia's Central Bank Under the Microscope Following President Joseph Boakai Audit Order The recent presidential order in Liberia to audit the Central Bank has ignited a significant debate over the legal boundaries and the bank's autonomy. President Joseph Boakai mandated the General Auditing Commission (GAC) to audit the Central Bank of Liberia (CBL), raising questions about the legality of this directive, the GAC's authority to audit the CBL, and the potential impact on the CBL's independence. This action is part of a broader anti-corruption drive by President Boakai, who has committed to fighting graft and enhancing transparency in government institutions, including the central bank, the national security agency , and the executive protection service, focusing on the period from 2018 to 2023​​​​​​. The debate centers around the interpretation of the GAC Act, specifically whether the CBL's operations are considered "public accounts" or "public funds" as defined by the Act, and thus, whether they fall within the GAC's audit jurisdiction. Critics argue that the presidential order contradicts the CBL Act, which outlines the bank's independence and its authority over internal and external audits. They point to the Act's provisions, which mandate regular audits by the Chief Internal Auditor of the CBL, the appointment of external auditors by the Board of Governors, and oversight by an independent Audit Committee, all designed to protect the CBL from undue influence​​. In contrast, proponents of the audit argue that the presidential directive falls within constitutional powers to ensure accountability in government institutions, emphasizing that the CBL's autonomy does not exempt it from external scrutiny, especially concerning financial management and accountability​​. This situation highlights the ongoing tension between the need for transparency and accountability in government institutions and the preservation of the autonomy of key financial institutions like the Central Bank of Liberia . 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 Pledges to Boost East African Energy Integration Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 30, 2024 ​ Ethiopian Electric Power's CEO Eng. Ashebir Balcha Ethiopia is steadfast in its commitment to enhance energy connectivity across East Africa, Ethiopian Electric Power's CEO announced today. The nation is actively expanding its electric power exports to bolster regional integration, Eng. Ashebir Balcha conveyed in an interview with the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA). Ethiopia, a key player in the East African energy sector, has been a reliable power supplier to Sudan, Djibouti, and Kenya, and is now setting its sights on further expanding its electric power exports. Eng. Balcha revealed plans to extend Ethiopia's energy reach to South Africa through the East African Power Pool, underscoring the country's pivotal role in regional energy dynamics. The demand for Ethiopian electric power is on an upward trajectory, with recipient countries experiencing a 15 percent annual increase in energy consumption, according to Water and Energy Minister Habtamu Itefa. This burgeoning demand has led to the recent agreement to commence electric power supply to Tanzania, marking a significant milestone in Ethiopia's energy export initiatives. Eng. Balcha also highlighted interest from South Sudan, Uganda, and Rwanda in importing Ethiopian electricity, indicating a broadening horizon for Ethiopia's energy exports. The nation is in active discussions with these countries to explore potential energy partnerships, reinforcing Ethiopia's dedication to fostering energy connectivity in East Africa. "Ethiopia's renewable energy initiatives not only advance our nation's sustainability goals but also provide tangible benefits to our neighboring countries," Eng. Balcha stated, emphasizing the broader regional advantages of Ethiopia's renewable energy production. As Ethiopia continues to reinforce its position as a key energy provider in East Africa, the nation's commitment to regional energy integration stands to significantly enhance economic growth and sustainability across 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

DRC/ Congo New images of Rwandan soldiers evacuating their dead Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Dianna Tran Nov 11, 2023 ​ image retrieved from the Twitter post of the Spokesperson - Copyright © africanews RDC Congolese army drones have once again captured images of Rwandan soldiers on Congolese territory, but this time carrying the lifeless bodies of their comrades who fell on the battlefield. The Minister of Communication and Media, Patrick Muyaya Katembwe, praised the courage of the valiant soldiers of the Congolese army who were determined to defend the national territory and secure the population. We continue to show our support for our armed forces which ensure our defense against this aggression. Around the President of the Republic and our armed forces, everything will be done to ensure that the territory is validly defended , said the government spokesperson. Patrick Muyaya A few weeks ago, the Rwandan soldiers crossed the border to come to the aid of the M23 rebels, visibly exhausted by multiple attacks by the Wazalendo resistance patriots. Something which would explain the strengthening of the positions of the M23 terrorists at the gates of Goma. 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 Impact of Pregnancy Support Grants in South Africa Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Feb 26, 2024 ​ Empowering Mothers, Nurturing Futures: South Africa's Path to Prosperity Through Pregnancy Support Grants Empowering Early Development: The Case for Pregnancy Support Grants in South Africa The critical window from conception to a child's second birthday represents a golden opportunity to shape their future health and potential. Adequate nutrition for the mother during pregnancy and for the child post-birth is paramount to prevent undernutrition and its long-term consequences, such as stunting, which can lead to lifelong health and social challenges. While many regions globally recognize the value of maternity benefits, with over 80% coverage in Europe and Central Asia, Africa lags behind at just 16%, and South Africa currently offers no benefits to pregnant women. Addressing this gap by providing pregnancy support grants could significantly improve maternal nutrition and access to essential antenatal care, laying a foundation for healthier, more productive future generations. A Cost-Effective Strategy for National Well-being Research indicates that extending child support grants to include the pregnancy period could yield substantial healthcare savings for the South African government, estimated at R31,200 ($1,600) per child over the first 1,000 days. This could translate to a national saving of about R14 billion ($720 million) across all newborns during this critical period. The majority of pregnancies in South Africa occur in impoverished or female-headed households, where financial constraints often lead to food insecurity. Implementing a pregnancy support grant could alleviate these pressures, ensuring better nutritional choices and overall well-being for mothers and their unborn children. Investing in the Future through Pregnancy Support A pilot study in the Western Cape demonstrated the potential success of a pregnancy support grant, where recipients used funds to purchase nutritious foods, highlighting both the economic and psychological benefits of such support. Despite concerns, evidence suggests that child support grants do not incentivize pregnancy but rather provide crucial aid to those in need. Learning from global examples in countries like India, Mexico, and Brazil, South Africa has the opportunity to transform the lives of women and children, drive economic growth, and realize significant government savings by investing in pregnancy support grants. This policy change could mark a significant step towards breaking the cycle of malnutrition and poverty, enhancing the nation's health and economic future. 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

Unveiling the Logo for the 2030 FIFA World Cup Bid Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Mar 21, 2024 ​ YallaVamos 2030: Uniting Nations, Elevating Football!. @bladi.info The official unveiling of the vision, foundational pillars, logo, and promotional video for the 2030 FIFA World Cup bid took place at a grand ceremony held at the Cidade do Futebol, the home base of the Portuguese Football Federation, situated in Oeiras, just outside Lisbon. This marks a historic joint bid by Portugal, Spain, and Morocco, making it the sole contender for hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup. This unique collaboration signifies the first time the prestigious tournament will span three continents and involve six nations as hosts. In a nod to the rich history of the World Cup, the first three matches of the 2030 tournament are scheduled to be hosted in South America, specifically in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay. This decision pays homage to the centennial celebration of the inaugural World Cup, which was held in Uruguay in 1930. Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay, is set to host the opening ceremony, recreating the spirit of the very first World Cup. Portugal is set to co-host its first World Cup, building on its experience as the host of the UEFA Euro 2004. Spain brings its prior hosting experiences to the table, having previously organized the UEFA Euro 1964 and the FIFA World Cup in 1982. As part of the hosting privileges, all six nations involved in the bid will automatically secure their spots in the tournament, ensuring their participation in one of the globe's most anticipated sporting events. 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