Zambia Seeks Maize Import from Uganda Amid Severe Drought Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Apr 28, 2024 ​ Maize commonly known as corn in the garden Zambia, grappling with severe drought conditions, has approached Uganda for an import of over 500,000 metric tonnes of maize. This move comes as a critical measure to mitigate the risk of starvation affecting over two million Zambians. In February 2024, the Zambian government, facing a significant shortfall in maize production across 84 of its 116 districts, imposed a ban on maize grain and maize flour exports. This decision underscores the dire agricultural situation in Zambia, the second-largest maize producer in Southern Africa. The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal, Industry and Fisheries of Uganda confirmed receiving a formal request from Lusaka. "We are assessing our capacity to meet Zambia's demand for maize grain, ensuring quality and volume considerations are addressed," stated David Kasura-Kyomukama, the ministry's Permanent Secretary, in a recent correspondence. This potential partnership highlights the regional dependencies on agricultural produce and the urgent need for cooperative efforts to address food security challenges. Zambia's request to Uganda could affect regional maize markets, especially with South Africa already under pressure to fulfill its domestic and regional commitments. Last year, Zambia declined a similar request from Kenya, which traditionally imports maize from Tanzania, to prioritize its food security. The Tanzanian government has recently tightened export regulations, complicating maize trade routes in East Africa and prompting countries like Kenya to explore alternative sources. Forward-Looking: Regional Cooperation on Food Security As Zambia and Uganda discuss the logistical and regulatory frameworks for the maize trade, it is clear that enhanced regional cooperation and sustainable agricultural practices will be vital in addressing the impacts of climate variability on food production. 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 Surpasses European Trade Figures in Historic Economic Milestone Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link ​ Feb 23, 2024 ​ President Museveni Kaguta of Uganda and Europe met, marking a pivotal moment in trade relations A New Trade Era For the first time, Uganda has set a new precedent in international trade by surpassing Europe, the world's largest market, in bilateral trade figures. This landmark achievement highlights Uganda's strategic expansion and diversification of its trade partners beyond traditional markets, emphasizing the country's growing influence and capability in the global trade arena. Strengthening Regional Ties Key to this achievement is Uganda's focus on strengthening bilateral relations within the African continent, exemplified by recent agreements with Tanzania to enhance trade facilitation and infrastructure development. Such initiatives, including significant reductions in road tolls for cargo trucks and the establishment of cooperative projects like the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), have been instrumental in boosting intra-African trade volumes, showcasing a successful model of regional integration and cooperation​​​​. Strategic Partnerships and Future Prospects Uganda's trade strategy also aligns with broader regional trade agreements within the East African Community (EAC) and engagements with the European Union (EU) to foster economic partnerships and sustainable development. These strategic alignments not only bolster Uganda's trade portfolio but also open up avenues for future trade expansion and diversification, setting a positive trajectory for the nation's economic growth and regional influence​​. This remarkable milestone for Uganda not only underscores the potential and dynamism of African markets but also signifies a shift towards more balanced and diversified global trade relationships, promising a future of increased prosperity and interconnectivity for 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

Tobi Amusan's Unexpected Setback at Xiamen Diamond League Serves as a Crucial Wake-Up Call Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Apr 22, 2024 ​ Resilience in Focus: World Record Holder Tobi Amusan regroups after an intense race, her determination undiminished by the day's challenges. Photo:Premium Times At the recent Xiamen Diamond League, the women's 100m Hurdles showcased a high-stakes competition, with Olympic champion Jasmine Camacho-Quinn taking the lead, outpacing her formidable opponents in a season-best and meeting record time of 12.45 seconds. In her first hurdle race of the year, Camacho-Quinn displayed remarkable recovery after a slow start, securing a commanding victory. Close on her heels was the World 60m hurdles champion and record holder Devynne Charlton, who finished in 12.49 seconds, underscoring the intense level of competition. The event also saw impressive performances from other top athletes. Cyrena Samba-Mayela set a new French national record with a time of 12.55 seconds, placing third, while former world champion Danielle Williams was narrowly edged into fourth place with a time of 12.56 seconds. Tobi Amusan, the current World Record holder in the women’s 100m Hurdles, completed the race in 12.58 seconds, finishing fifth. This outcome may seem surprising for Amusan, who set a World Record of 12.12 seconds previously. However, it’s important to recognize that the season is still in its early stages, and athletes typically improve their performance as they approach major championships like the Olympics. Amusan, known for her ability to peak at crucial moments, is expected to intensify her preparations in response to this setback. Looking ahead, the competition in women's 100m Hurdles remains fierce, with every athlete aiming to lower their times further as the Olympic Games approach. The drive to not only break records but also to achieve a sub-12-second finish adds an extra layer of excitement to the event. As these athletes gear up for more races, the stage is set for riveting confrontations, with each looking to solidify her status in the sport. In conclusion, while Amusan’s performance at Xiamen might not have met her usual standards, it should be viewed more as a motivational challenge rather than a cause for concern. With her sights set on achieving Olympic glory and claiming her fourth Diamond League title, Amusan is expected to come back stronger, aiming to reclaim her dominance against her rivals in forthcoming 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

Davido Inaugurates 'Faculty of Music and Arts' Course at International University in Kampala Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Mar 30, 2024 ​ A campus facility has been christened 'Davido Hall' in honor of the renowned artist. @IUEA Renowned Nigerian musician Davido has extended his artistic footprint by introducing a novel 'Faculty of Music and Arts' at the International University of East Africa (IUEA) in Kampala, Uganda. This development has ignited a wave of excitement among his extensive fanbase, as evidenced by the widespread sharing of the news across social media platforms. In a ceremonious event hosted by the university, Davido was celebrated with a unique accolade bearing his name. This tribute was further amplified by the unveiling of a newly erected hall on the campus, aptly named 'Davido Hall', in recognition of his contributions to music and arts. The inauguration of the ' Faculty of Music and Arts' was marked by Davido cutting a ribbon affixed to a signboard that heralded the commencement of the course. This significant gesture underscored the official launch and Davido's pivotal role in enriching the academic landscape at IUEA. The reaction on social media following this announcement was overwhelmingly positive, with fans and supporters expressing their admiration and support for Davido's latest achievement. 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

Landslide Victory Amidst Dispute: Tshisekedi Re-elected with 73% in the DRC Election Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Dianna Tran Dec 31, 2023 ​ In the recent presidential election in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), incumbent President Felix Tshisekedi has been re-elected for a second term, securing more than 73% of the vote. This result places him well ahead of his nearest rivals, businessman Moise Katumbi and former energy executive Martin Fayulu, who received over 18% and over 5% of the vote respectively. The election process, however, has been marred by controversy and accusations of irregularities. The opposition presidential candidates have raised concerns over election day inconsistencies, including the unscheduled extension of voting beyond December 20. These irregularities have led them to question the credibility of the results and call for the annulment of the election. Despite these concerns, the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) has stated that it is committed to delivering a free and fair vote. The election's voter turnout was over 43%, according to Denis Kadima, the head of the CENI. The provisional results were announced in the capital Kinshasa, indicating that Tshisekedi had obtained over 13 million votes out of more than 18 million valid votes. In response to the release of the provisional results, a group of the main opposition presidential candidates urged their supporters to protest in the streets, demanding fresh elections with a new electoral body. The DRC, despite its vast mineral wealth, remains one of the world's poorest countries and has a history of contentious and often disputed elections. Tshisekedi's election as president in 2018 was also accompanied by allegations of vote-rigging and fraud. The situation remains tense, with the opposition's rejection of the election results and calls for public demonstrations against what they describe as electoral fraud​​​​​​​​. 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

Zambia Airways Launches New Routes to East Africa Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Jun 26, 2024 Zambia airways Zambia Airways (ZA) is set to commence its inaugural flights into East Africa this week, marking a significant expansion of their route network. The new service, flight ZN 504, will connect Lusaka to Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and Nairobi in Kenya, operating on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. In a recent statement, Zambia Airways CEO Thomas Woldesenbet confirmed the inaugural flights are scheduled for this Thursday, with many travelers already booked. This new development is part of Zambia Airways' strategic efforts to broaden its reach and offer more travel options to its customers. 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

Niger Cuts Military Ties with the United States Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Serge Kabongo ​ ​ Niger cut military ties with America, asked them to leave the country and close military bases immediately In a surprising move, the government of Niger has decided to end its military cooperation with the United States and has asked American troops to leave the country immediately. This decision comes after a series of discussions between the two countries, where Niger expressed its concerns about the presence of foreign military forces on its territory. According to a statement released by the Nigerien government , the decision was made in the interest of national sovereignty and the country's commitment to non-alignment. The statement also emphasized that Niger is open to maintaining friendly relations with all nations but will not allow foreign military bases on its soil. The United States has maintained a military presence in Niger since 2013, with a drone base in Agadez and approximately 800 American troops stationed in the country. These troops have been involved in training local forces and conducting counterterrorism operations against extremist groups in the region. The decision to end military cooperation with the United States has been met with mixed reactions. Some Nigeriens have expressed their support for the move, citing concerns about foreign interference in the country's internal affairs. Others have expressed worries about the potential impact on security, as the U.S. presence has been seen as a deterrent to extremist groups. The U.S. government has not yet issued an official response to Niger's decision. However, it is expected that the U.S. will work with Niger to ensure a smooth and orderly withdrawal of its troops and equipment. This decision by Niger comes at a time of increased scrutiny of the presence of foreign military forces in Africa. Many African nations are reevaluating their relationships with foreign powers and seeking to assert greater control over their security and sovereignty 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 Prince Jean Apr 16, 2024 ​ 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

African Trade and Investment Development Insurance Boosts Burundi's Renewable Energy with $7.7M Hydropower Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 28, 2024 ​ Mpanda hydroelectric power station one of other big power projects in Burundi Bujumbura, Burundi - African Trade and Investment Development Insurance (Atidi) has announced its backing for the pioneering $7.7 million Ruvyironza Hydropower Project in Burundi, offering a significant political risk insurance cover. This initiative marks a crucial step in bolstering the nation's renewable energy sector and enhancing access to electricity. The Ruvyironza project, spearheaded by Songa Energy in collaboration with Virunga Power, introduces a 1.65 megawatt (MW) run-of-the-river facility, setting a precedent as the first hydro Independent Power Producer (IPP) to connect to Burundi's national grid. This follows the 7.5 MW Upper Mulembwe solar project, also insured by Atidi, underscoring a growing commitment to renewable resources in the region. Construction of the hydropower plant commenced in May 2023, with expectations to initiate commercial operations by year-end. The project, financed by Virunga Power, renowned for their expertise in renewable energy ventures and rural grid development, is part of a broader strategy to produce over 10 MW from two hydropower installations. Atidi, established by the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (Comesa) in 2000, plays a pivotal role in mitigating investment and political risks, thereby encouraging foreign direct investment across Africa. The insurer's involvement in the Ruvyironza project aligns with its mission to support sustainable development initiatives, particularly those aimed at achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7 – ensuring universal access to affordable, reliable, and modern energy services. Burundi's energy sector, with less than 15% of its population having electricity access, stands to gain immensely from this venture. The generated power will be supplied to the national utility, la Régie de Production et de Distribution de l'Eau et de l'Electricité (Regideso), under a 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), facilitated through a newly constructed 2.4km transmission line. This landmark project not only propels Burundi towards a sustainable energy future but also exemplifies the significant impact of collaborative efforts between governments, private sector entities, and insurance underwriters in transforming the African energy 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

Reflecting on 62 Years of Independence: Ingabire Victoire's Message to Rwanda Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Serge Kabongo Jul 1, 2024 Ingabire Umuhoza was arrested on June 24, 2010, just weeks before the presidential elections Ingabire Umuhoza Message to Rwanda On this first of July, I want to wish every Rwandan a happy Independence Day. It has been 62 years since Rwanda gained independence. We have been free from colonization but are still not fully independent. Our country still depends on foreign assistance for development, and our citizens remain limited in our country. Proceeding that way will not lead us to sustainable development and full independence. Therefore, it is important that after 62 years of independence, Rwandans must have a say in decision-making so that development reaches all areas of our country. It is necessary to work together and build a country that respects the rule of law and principles of democracy so we become fully independent. 2nd Flag of The Republic of Rwanda 1962-2001 as the major mark of Rwanda Independence 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

Turkey Mediates Fragile Somalia-Ethiopia Port Deal Talks Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 1, 2024 Turkish President Erdogan and Somali President Mohamud at an official ceremony, underscoring Turkey's mediation in the Somalia-Ethiopia port deal talks. Turkey is mediating talks between Somalia and Ethiopia over a controversial port deal Ethiopia signed with Somaliland earlier this year, according to officials. The negotiations aim to mend the strained diplomatic ties between Somalia and Ethiopia, which deteriorated after Ethiopia agreed to lease 20 km of coastline from Somaliland in exchange for recognizing its independence. Mogadishu deemed the agreement illegal, expelled the Ethiopian ambassador, and threatened to expel thousands of Ethiopian troops stationed in Somalia fighting Islamist insurgents. Somali, Turkish, and Ethiopian government representatives did not respond to requests for comment. Somaliland, which declared independence in 1991 but lacks international recognition, said it was not part of the talks. Officials indicated that expectations for a resolution were low, with one noting Somalia's continued refusal to engage until Ethiopia withdraws the agreement. Turkey has been a close ally of Somalia since President Erdogan's visit in 2011, providing security training, development assistance, and signing a defence pact in February to support Somalia's maritime security. Turkey's extensive aid includes building schools, hospitals, infrastructure, and offering scholarships to Somalis, securing a strategic foothold in Africa and along key global shipping routes. 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

Leveraging Science and Technology for Sustainable Water Management in the Nile Basin Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 2, 2024 ​ Professor Esayas Alemayehu, a renowned figure in Water and Environmental Engineering Experts emphasize the critical role of science and technology in addressing water management challenges in the Nile Basin. Professor Esayas Alemayehu, a renowned figure in Water and Environmental Engineering, advocates for innovative solutions to harness the region's vast water resources sustainably. Surrounded by significant water bodies like the Mediterranean and Red Seas, and the Indian Ocean, the Nile Basin has untapped potential for sustainable water resource management. According to Professor Esayas, advanced desalination techniques could transform these saline waters into a fresh water supply, easing tensions and fostering water peace in the region. Countries such as Libya and Algeria have set precedents in effective water extraction, showcasing the potential for Egypt and others with extensive coastlines to follow suit. However, Professor Esayas warns of the substantial water losses currently plaguing the basin. He suggests that adopting advanced technologies in distribution systems, like those being introduced in Ethiopia, could significantly reduce water wastage through leakage detection. Moreover, the reuse of water, particularly in agriculture, presents an untapped opportunity for the Nile Basin countries. Emulating Israel's model, where 85% of agricultural water comes from recycled sources, could alleviate water scarcity issues. Collaboration remains a cornerstone for progress, as the integration of science and technology in water management demands collective effort. Accelerating technological advancements is crucial to mitigate disputes and promote unconventional water resource utilization, fostering unity and sustainability in the Nile Basin. 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