Gambian Lawmakers Back Recommendations to Maintain Female Genital Mutilation Ban Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 9, 2024 A veiled woman and young girls sit in contemplation, highlighting the deep-rooted cultural practices amidst the ongoing debate on FGM Gambian lawmakers have supported recommendations to maintain the country's ban on female genital mutilation (FGM), ahead of a crucial vote later this month on whether to decriminalise the practice. FGM has been outlawed in Gambia since 2015, yet the practice remains prevalent. The first convictions last year for FGM spurred a backlash against the law. Following a heated debate, a report by the joint health and gender committee was adopted by the full house, with 35 lawmakers voting in favour, 17 against, and two abstaining. The final vote on the bill to decriminalise FGM is set for July 24. If approved, Gambia would be the first country to reverse a ban on FGM. The bill passed its second reading in March with only five out of 53 lawmakers opposing it and one abstaining. The joint committee conducted a national public consultation with various stakeholders , including religious and traditional leaders, doctors, victims, civil society groups, and circumcisers. The conclusions presented on Monday condemned all forms of FGM as a "traumatic form of torture" and "discrimination against women." Amadou Camara, the lawmaker who read out the report, stated that repealing the law would be a significant setback for the Gambia. The first conviction for FGM last August involved three women found guilty of cutting eight infant girls, which sparked outrage. This led independent lawmaker Almaneh Gibba to table the repeal bill in March. Gibba and his supporters, including influential religious leaders, argue that the ban infringes on citizens' rights to practice their culture and religion in the Muslim-majority country. However, many Islamic scholars dispute this claim.The World Health Organization (WHO) asserts that FGM has no health benefits and can result in severe complications such as excessive bleeding, shock, psychological issues, and even death. 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

Alleged Businessman Link Emerges in AKA Murder Trial: Prosecutors Present Evidence Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Mar 29, 2024 ​ Police allege businessman's connection to AKA murder case. @maserumetro In the ongoing trial concerning the tragic murder of South African musician AKA and his companion, court documents have unveiled a potential connection implicating a prominent businessman, Sydney Mfundo Gcaba, from a notable South African family. This revelation comes as prosecutors delve into the backgrounds of the accused gunmen. According to the disclosed court records , a company owned by Mr. Gcaba transferred a substantial sum of over 800,000 rands to one of the suspects, Mziwethemba Harvey Gwabeni, mere hours after the distressing incident took place. Notably, phone records presented by the prosecution indicate a call between Gwabeni and Mr. Gcaba preceding the financial transaction. As the trial unfolds, Mr. Gcaba has yet to formally address these allegations. Prosecutors assert that the funds disbursed by Mr. Gcaba's company were purportedly divided among the seven suspects implicated in the shooting. Gwabeni, among the accused, contends that the transfer was remuneration for consulting services rendered to the company. However, authorities argue the lack of substantial evidence supporting this assertion. The Gcaba family, renowned for their substantial business enterprises in South Africa, notably within the taxi industry, has refrained from issuing public statements regarding the allegations. Law enforcement agencies are intensifying their investigative efforts to ascertain any potential motives behind Mr. Gcaba's purported involvement in the tragic incident, as the trial progresses. 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

CRDB Secures 3.2 Billion TZS Agreement to Sponsor the Federation Cup with TFF Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Apr 4, 2024 ​ The tournament will henceforth be referred to as the CRBD Federation Cup. Photo: Tanzania Football Federation The Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) has entered into a significant partnership with CRDB Bank, securing a sponsorship deal for the Federation Cup worth 3.2 billion TZS over three and a half years, post value-added tax. This new agreement positions CRDB Bank as the inaugural main sponsor for the prestigious tournament, transitioning from the previous naming rights held by Azam Media Limited, which will continue its involvement as a broadcasting sponsor. The contract was formalized in Dar es Salaam at the CRDB headquarters , with TFF President Wallace Kairia and CRDB CEO Abdulmajid Nsekela officiating the signing. The Federation Cup, henceforth to be known as the CRDB Federation Cup, is the country's most prominent football competition, drawing participation from over 100 teams across various leagues including the Premier League, Championship League, First League, and Regional Champions League. The Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) has entered into a three-and-a-half-year sponsorship agreement with CRDB Bank, valued at 3.2 billion TZS after value-added tax, for the Federation Cup. Photo: Tanzania Football Federation CRDB Bank's sponsorship will commence from the Round of 16 stage of the current season's cup, providing a financial boost and enhancing the prestige of the tournament. The Federation Cup, which starts at the district level and progresses to the national level as per TFF's schedule, will see an increase in financial rewards for the participating teams. During the contract signing, TFF President Wallace Karia reiterated the federation's commitment to honoring the terms of the agreement and emphasized the potential for football development through the CRDB Federation Cup. He expressed confidence that the clubs would recognize the value of the competition and contribute to its success and the sponsors' visibility. Karia also highlighted the significant opportunity for the winning team of the CRDB Federation Cup to represent Tanzania in the CAF Confederation Cup, underlining the federation's ambition to foster football growth and club development on the continental stage. The funds from the sponsorship will be allocated to participating clubs to cover expenses such as transport and accommodation, ensuring the smooth operation of the tournament. Karia also requested Nsekela to facilitate a site inspection of the Tanzanite Stadium in Babati, Manyara, by CRDB executives to determine suitable locations for advertising billboards. The venue for the second semi-final of the CRDB Federation Cup remains undecided, with TFF open to proposals from regions that meet the specified criteria. The first semi-final is scheduled to take place at CCM Kirumba Stadium in Mwanza. 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

World Bank Provides $57.6 Million Grant to Malawi for Food Crisis Relief Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond Apr 27, 2024 ​ In a significant move to combat the escalating food crisis in Malawi, the World Bank has announced a $57.6 million grant aimed at facilitating immediate relief efforts. This funding comes at a critical time as the nation struggles with the compounded impacts of natural disasters and climatic adversities. Announced last Friday, the World Bank's grant is part of its "quick release" financing mechanism, designed to provide rapid support to nations in dire need. The aid to Malawi is targeted at enhancing the country's resilience against an intensifying food scarcity crisis. The ongoing food crisis in Malawi is largely driven by the adverse effects of El Niño, which has affected the entire southern Africa region. These conditions have led to poor harvests and a significant reduction in food availability, escalating the urgency for international aid. Malawi has been hit by a series of intense disaster events in recent years , leaving little room for recovery and rehabilitation. These events have severely eroded national food security, pushing the World Bank to intervene with timely financial support. The $57.6 million grant is expected to play a pivotal role in stabilizing food security at the national level by supporting immediate and effective responses to the crisis. The funding aims to enhance Malawi's agricultural output and provide essential resources to the affected populations. With the World Bank's support, Malawi hopes to mitigate the current food security crisis and lay the groundwork for sustainable recovery and resilience against future climatic shocks. This grant is a testament to the global community's commitment to aiding vulnerable nations facing environmental and humanitarian challenges. 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

Manager Reveals Mr Ibu Receives Acclaim in Ghana, South Africa, Kenya, and Four Additional Nations Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Mar 10, 2024 ​ Mr Ibu, an Icon who consistently held the Nigerian flag high as a testament to his patriotism. Image/wikilife Dominic Nwuzoru, who managed the late renowned Nollywood star John Okafor, widely known as Mr. Ibu, shared that the actor was immensely popular in nations such as Ghana, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Gambia, Gabon, and Botswana during his lifetime. Nwuzoru highlighted that Mr. Ibu was a fervent patriot who frequently displayed the Nigerian flag as a gesture of his national pride and contributed to fostering peace and unity across the African continent through his comedic work. In a conversation with the Nigerian News Agency (NAN) in Abuja on a Sunday, Nwuzoru recounted how Mr. Ibu's influence led to accolades and acknowledgments from various African authorities and communities. He emphasized the actor's role in portraying Nigeria positively worldwide, especially in regions that had been exposed to unfavorable stories about the country. Nwuzoru recalled a memorable incident in Ghana where Mr. Ibu's performance brought together two conflicting tribes, leading to his conferment with the Chieftaincy title 'Malangula I of Tamale Land', symbolizing a peacemaker, with Nwuzoru being named 'Ngulala', the spokesperson for the peacemaker. "In Botswana, he proudly carried the Nigerian flag upon arrival, countering the negative perceptions about Nigeria prevalent at the time," Nwuzoru noted, praising Mr. Ibu's ability to unite Africans and command respect akin to a revered leader across the continent. Describing Mr. Ibu as more than an actor, Nwuzoru reflected on their bond that evolved from a professional agreement in 2004 into a deep friendship. He detailed their arrangement that allowed Mr. Ibu to engage freely in Nigerian cinema while Nwuzoru handled international showbiz engagements. He shared experiences of their travels across Africa, where Mr. Ibu's fame was evident through the enthusiastic welcome from fans at airports, underlining the actor's significant impact beyond Nigeria's borders. Nwuzoru also mentioned the universal appeal Mr. Ibu had, even among children in countries like Ghana, attributing it to his genuineness and unique style. Mr. Ibu's influence, according to Nwuzoru, extended beyond entertainment, attracting interest in Nigeria from people worldwide, including the Caribbean. The celebrated actor, Mr. Ibu, passed away at the age of 62. He was born on October 17, 1961, in the Nkanu West Local Government Area of Enugu State. 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

FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Everything You Need to Know Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Jun 17, 2024 Discover all the details about the new club tournament, including information on the qualified teams, dates, competition format, host locations, tickets, and more. Credit:FIFA FIFA's premier club competition, the FIFA Club World Cup 2025™, will make its debut on the world stage in June and July 2025. This inaugural event will see 32 of the world’s top teams gather in the USA for an unprecedented global showcase. Hosting and Dates The USA has been selected as the host for this prestigious tournament. The matches will take place from June 15 to July 13, 2025, offering a month-long celebration of football excellence. Qualified Teams and Qualification Process A total of 32 teams will compete in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. The slots are allocated across the six international football confederations as follows: Africa (CAF) : 4 teams (Three via CAF Champions League, one via ranking) Asia (AFC) : 4 teams (Three via AFC Champions League, one via ranking) Europe (UEFA) : 12 teams (Four via UEFA Champions League, eight via ranking) North and Central America, Caribbean (Concacaf) : 4 teams (All via Concacaf Champions Cup) Oceania (OFC) : 1 team (Via ranking) South America (CONMEBOL) : 6 teams (Four via CONMEBOL Libertadores, two via ranking ) Host country : 1 team For more information on how ranking pathways are determined, visit FIFA's official website. Teams Qualified for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 As of now, 29 out of the 32 slots have been filled by the following teams: CAF : Al Ahly (EGY) – 2020/21, 2022/23, and 2023/24 CAF Champions League Wydad (MAR) – 2021/22 CAF Champions League ES Tunis (TUN) - CAF ranking pathway Mamelodi Sundowns (RSA) - CAF ranking pathway AFC : Al Hilal (KSA) – 2021 AFC Champions League Urawa Red Diamonds (JPN) – 2022 AFC Champions League Al Ain (UAE) - 2023/24 AFC Champions League Ulsan HD FC (KOR) - AFC ranking pathway UEFA : Chelsea (ENG) – 2020/21 UEFA Champions League Real Madrid (ESP) – 2021/22 and 2023/24 UEFA Champions League Manchester City (ENG) – 2022/23 UEFA Champions League Bayern Munich (GER) – UEFA ranking pathway Paris Saint-Germain (FRA) – UEFA ranking pathway Inter Milan (ITA) – UEFA ranking pathway Porto (POR) - UEFA ranking pathway Benfica (POR) – UEFA ranking pathway Borussia Dortmund (GER) - UEFA ranking pathway Juventus (ITA) - UEFA ranking pathway Atletico Madrid (ESP) - UEFA ranking pathway FC Salzburg (AUT) - UEFA ranking pathway Concacaf : Monterrey (MEX) – 2021 Concacaf Champions Cup Seattle Sounders (USA) – 2022 Concacaf Champions Cup Club Leon (MEX) – 2023 Concacaf Champions Cup Pachuca (MEX) - 2024 Concacaf Champions Cup OFC : Auckland City (NZL) – OFC ranking pathway CONMEBOL : Palmeiras (BRA) – 2021 CONMEBOL Libertadores Flamengo (BRA) – 2022 CONMEBOL Libertadores Fluminense (BRA) – 2023 CONMEBOL Libertadores River Plate (ARG) 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

Surge in Gender-Based Violence in Tigray in Post-War Aftermath Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 7, 2024 Women in Tigray raise their fists during a protest against rising violence and gender crimes in the region, demonstrating their solidarity and demand for justice and safety. In Tigray, a northern region of Ethiopia, a wave of demonstrations is sweeping through several cities, protesting the alarming rise in violence against women. Since the Pretoria peace agreement in November 2022, which concluded a two-year conflict between Tigray and the central government, gender crimes have surged. Kidnappings, murders, and various forms of abuse have become increasingly common, with women and girls being the primary victims. Numerous NGOs have initiated an online awareness campaign to combat this crisis. Selamawit Gidey, founder and executive director of the Rise and Shine Empowerment Center, links this disturbing trend directly to the war. According to Gidey, the conflict has left many men with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other forms of trauma. During the war, individuals witnessed extensive violence and killings, and many men who participated as combatants saw their friends die. Gidey suggests that these traumatic experiences may have left some men unable to control their emotions, resulting in violent behavior. She emphasizes that this is not about revenge but rather a consequence of the inability to manage trauma. Before the war, disagreements between couples could lead to separations handled within the bounds of normalcy. However, the current lack of a robust legal system to hold perpetrators accountable has emboldened criminals to act with impunity. Gidey calls on authorities to take decisive action against the perpetrators of these crimes. She stresses the need for an efficient legal framework to ensure the safety of women and girls in Tigray, highlighting that it is the government's duty to protect its citizens. The ongoing awareness campaigns and protests underscore the urgent need for a systemic response to curb the rising violence and restore a sense of security 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

The Xtra Historic Moment: From Nightlife Enthusiast to Total Football Legend Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Jul 4, 2024 Every day, XtrAfrica highlights a memorable football journey. Today’s spotlight is on Ruud Krol, whose transformation from a nightlife enthusiast to a pivotal figure in Rinus Michels' legendary 'Total Football' . Credit:FIFA Ruud Krol, a key figure in the legendary Dutch "Total Football" team of the 1970s, has a fascinating story that transcends his on-field brilliance. Known initially for his nightlife escapades, Krol's journey to becoming a disciplined and inspiring leader under the guidance of Rinus Michels is both intriguing and motivational. In this interview, Krol shares his experiences, insights, and reflections on his career, the Dutch national team, and the enduring legacy of Total Football . God gave us two ears and one mouth,” you once warned Pim van Dord. How did that transition happen? “Rinus Michels found it amusing. The ungovernable partygoer had become an inspiring preacher.” Tell us about your nightlife during your early days with Ajax. "The night before games, while my teammates were in bed, I would be out in Amsterdam’s trendiest nightspots, dressed in silk shirts, double-breasted jackets, and velvet pants. Eventually, Michels' patience ran out. One evening, he sent a staff member to retrieve me from a discotheque. The encounter resulted in a classic Krol response: ‘Would your wife like to dance?’ Everyone laughed, but Michels didn't find it funny. Despite this, he knew my potential and saw I could be central to the team’s success.” How did your playing style contribute to the team? “My primary position was on the left side of the defense, but I often ventured into midfield, the wing, and even the opposition’s box. I would slalom past opponents like Ingemar Stenmark and deliver precise long passes like Roger Staubach. My powerful shots even left Johan Cruyff awestruck. Michels’ patience paid off as I eventually settled down, got married, and focused more on my game. My partnership with Wim Suurbier, nicknamed ‘Snabbel and Babbel,’ became legendary.” You were quite superstitious and wore the No. 5 shirt for Ajax. How did you feel about wearing No. 12 at the 1974 World Cup, and how did Johan Cruyff get his preferred No. 14? “It was our first World Cup since 1938. We didn’t know how it worked. They did it alphabetically, and I ended up with No. 12. I wanted No. 5, the shirt I wore for Ajax and made my Netherlands debut in. By 1978, I knew how it worked and made sure I got No. 5 in Argentina. Cruyff, as the captain, found out about the alphabetical order and secured No. 14.” Was there ever any tension between Ajax and Feyenoord players on international duty? “No, never. When we played against each other, yes, but on the national team, there was no tension. Under Fadrhonc and Michels, there was always respect between us and for our top coaches.” How did you handle the pressure going into the 1974 World Cup? “We felt no pressure because the World Cup was new to us. We hadn’t been since 1938. Our pre-tournament performances weren't great, but when Michels joined us permanently, things improved. A 4-1 friendly win over Argentina boosted our confidence significantly.” What do you remember about Johan Cruyff's famous turn against Sweden? “There was a huge reaction, but for us, it was normal. We’d seen him do it before, but it was the first time on a big international stage.” How did it feel to score your first World Cup goal against Argentina? “That wasn’t my first World Cup goal. My first was an own-goal against Bulgaria! (laughs) The tension was high, but it was ‘our’ weather, which I think gave us an advantage.” Brazil were the defending champions. What was the mindset going into that game? “We loved Brazilian football. Playing against the world champions was like a final. It was a tough game, but we were motivated and won, though it could have gone either way.” What are your thoughts on the final against Germany? “We were a better team than Germany, but in football, a weaker team can win. We were unlucky with the penalty decision in the first half and Maier’s inspired form in the second.” Is it true some Ajax players tried to recruit West German Horst Blankenburg? “That was just newspaper talk. We had good central defenders. Our only issue was left-back, which is why Michels put me there.” The Dutch team kept five clean sheets in seven matches in 1974. Do you think the team’s defensive ability is underrated? “Yes, we were very strong defensively, thanks to Michels. His philosophy was that if you could attack, you could defend, and vice versa.” What was the reception like when you returned to the Netherlands after the World Cup? “The reception was amazing. We weren’t world champions, but the reception was truly exceptional, something I’ll remember for the rest of my life.” What do you think about playing every minute possible at the 1974 and 1978 World Cups? “It’s a fantastic statistic, but I’d prefer to have played less and won a gold medal! (laughs) But it’s exceptional.” Do you consider yourself among the top long-range passers in football history? “Yes, especially considering the heavier ball back then. Cruyff always encouraged me, and Michels had me practice a lot.” What do you think of Michels as a coach? “He was brilliant. He took our football to the highest level, always pushing us to move the ball forward and work hard in training.” What are your thoughts on Johan Cruyff as a player? “Extraordinary. He was Michels’ right-hand man on the field, with unbelievable skills and intelligence. He ranks up there with Pele and Maradona.” What do you think of the legacy of ‘Total Football’? “‘Total Football’ was revolutionary. Everyone talks about it even now. It’s a testament to Michels’ philosophy and the team’s execution.” Where do you think the Dutch side of the 1970s ranks among the greatest teams in international football history? “I think we were the greatest of the 1970s. We were unlucky, but we were definitely the best team of that era.” Ruud Krol's journey from a nightlife enthusiast to a pivotal figure in the "Total Football" revolution is a testament to his talent and the visionary guidance of Rinus Michels. Krol's reflections provide a unique insight into one of football's most celebrated eras, highlighting the discipline, skill, and teamwork that defined the Dutch national team of the 1970s. His story continues to inspire and captivate football fans around the world. 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

Ruto Defends Haiti Police Deployment Alongside Biden, Amid Criticism Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond May 24, 2024 ​ At Rutos Previous visit in the Us Washington, D.C. — Kenya's President William Ruto, on Thursday, firmly defended his decision to deploy 1,000 police officers to Haiti. Speaking at a joint press conference with US President Joe Biden, Ruto addressed criticism suggesting Nairobi was shouldering responsibilities meant for Washington. Ruto emphasized that Kenya's involvement in Haiti is a voluntary contribution to global peace and security. He stated, “Committing Kenya to Haiti is not so much about what happened in the past. I am the president of Kenya and I decide. It is up to the people of Kenya to commit their troops through their own established (legal) structures.” Criticism and Concerns The announcement comes amidst concerns from both Haitian civil society groups and local critics. Haitian groups, including the Movement Unforgettable Dessalines Jean Jacques (MUDJJ), have urged Kenya to reconsider, arguing that foreign military presence could exacerbate the situation. They highlighted Haiti's history of resilience and independence, referencing their 1804 victory against Napoleon’s army led by Emperor Jean-Jacques Dessalines. In Kenya, legal challenges have also been presented. Lawyer and Thirdway Alliance leader Ekuru Aukot previously blocked the deployment, citing constitutional issues. Ruto assured that these gaps have been addressed through a bilateral agreement with the US, though Aukot continues to contest the deployment in court. US Involvement and Strategic Interests President Biden acknowledged the complexities of directly sending US troops to Haiti, noting potential backlash. Instead, the US has pledged $300 million in support, including equipment and capacity building, to aid the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS) led by Kenya. Haiti, plagued by coups, assassinations, and gang violence, urgently needs stabilization. The MSS, while not a UN peacekeeping mission, has received authorization from the UN Security Council, thanks to US advocacy. Kenya’s Peacekeeping Record Ruto highlighted Kenya’s long-standing commitment to global peacekeeping, having participated in missions across 47 countries. He stressed the moral obligation of all nations to contribute to global peace and security, likening Haiti’s plight to domestic issues such as banditry and regional instability in East Africa. Diplomatic Milestone Ruto’s visit also marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Kenya and the US. In a significant gesture, the US elevated Kenya to a major non-NATO ally status, the only Sub-Saharan African country with this designation. This status enhances Kenya’s defense cooperation privileges with the US, although it stops short of a formal defense pact. As Ruto prepares to return to Nairobi, the international community watches closely. The deployment to Haiti represents a complex intersection of humanitarian duty, geopolitical strategy, and legal scrutiny, reflecting Kenya's evolving role on the global 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

Naira Experiences Fluctuation Against Dollar in Recent Forex Trading Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe May 5, 2024 ​ The Nigerian Naira has witnessed a notable decline against the US Dollar in the official foreign exchange The Nigerian Naira has witnessed a notable decline against the US Dollar in the official foreign exchange market, according to the latest data from FMDQ. The currency fell sharply to N1,402.67 per Dollar on Thursday, down from N1,390.96 on the preceding Tuesday, marking a significant depreciation of N11.71. Conversely, in the parallel market, where forex is traded unofficially, the Naira showed resilience and appreciation. The exchange rate improved to N1,340 per Dollar from N1,360, reflecting a potential stabilization in this less regulated market segment. The depreciation in the official market contrasts with the gains on the street, highlighting the ongoing volatility in Nigeria's forex sector. This shift comes amid efforts by the Association of Bureaux De Change Operators of Nigeria (ABCON) to introduce measures aimed at stabilizing the Naira. Aminu Gwadabe, the National President of ABCON, emphasized that planned initiatives to harmonize the retail end of the forex market could lead to enhanced stability for the Nigerian currency. As investors and policymakers monitor these developments, the impact of ABCON's strategies on the forex dynamics and overall economic stability will be closely watched. The fluctuations underscore the complex interplay between official regulations and market forces in Nigeria's foreign exchange markets. 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

West Africa Confronts Deadly Heatwave, Urging Immediate Climate Action Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Apr 19, 2024 ​ In late March and early April, West Africa was hit by one of the most severe heatwaves in recorded history, with temperatures soaring above 40° Celsius (104°F). This unprecedented event affected countries like Mali and Burkina Faso, experiencing temperatures that are typically expected once in two centuries. This alarming phenomenon has been linked directly to climate change caused by the industrial sector's reliance on fossil fuels. Local doctors have reported a significant increase in dehydration cases, particularly among the elderly, who are at a higher risk due to the scarcity of air conditioning and adequate cooling devices. The World Weather Attribution (WWA), a team of climate scientists, conducted a rapid analysis of the heatwave. Their findings suggest such extreme temperature events would be impossible without the global warming induced by human activities. According to WWA statistician Clair Barnes, in a pre-industrial climate, heatwaves of this intensity would be exceedingly rare. The report warns that without significant reductions in fossil fuel emissions, similar heatwaves could become up to 20 times more frequent per year. Given these findings, there's a pressing need for comprehensive heat action plans. These plans would provide warnings and guidance on coping with extreme temperatures, essential for preventing heat-related illnesses and deaths. Such measures are crucial for adapting to the inevitable increases in frequency and severity of heatwaves. The elderly, like the nonagenarian in Niger, are particularly vulnerable to extreme heat . Limited access to cooling technologies in many West African nations exacerbates this vulnerability. Immediate action to improve infrastructure and healthcare responsiveness is critical to safeguard these populations. The situation in West Africa serves as a stark reminder of the broader implications of climate change. It underscores the urgency of global efforts to cut emissions and transition towards sustainable energy sources. For regions like the Sahel, adapting to a warming world is not just a policy option; it is a survival imperative. As West Africa reels from the effects of a potentially climate change-driven heatwave, the global community must heed the call for urgent action. It's not only about reducing emissions but also about implementing robust systems to protect the most vulnerable. Without decisive action, such extreme weather events will become a new, devastating normal. 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

Sudan Civil War Forces Closure of Last Civilian Hospital in El-Fasher Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jun 10, 2024 ​ The last functioning civilian hospital in the besieged Sudanese city of el-Fasher has been forced to close after an attack. The hospital, supported by Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), was the only facility left in el-Fasher where injured civilians could receive treatment. El-Fasher is the only city still under army control in the entire Darfur region. The closure followed days of shelling and a chaotic assault by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), who looted drugs and medical equipment, stole an ambulance, and assaulted staff. Due to the chaos, MSF was unable to verify if there were any casualties. Medics had already been planning to relocate the hospital due to security concerns. During the attack, only ten patients and a reduced medical team were present. The hospital’s proximity to the frontline necessitates its closure for now . The nearby Saudi Hospital, where MSF plans to move operations, lacks fuel, electricity, and water, leaving injured civilians without medical care for at least a week. MSF’s Head of Emergencies, Michel Lacharite, condemned the attack as “outrageous,” stressing that warring parties must spare medical facilities. The Sudanese national army and the RSF have both been accused of widespread abuses during the civil war, which began 14 months ago. The closure of the hospital is a significant setback for el-Fasher residents, as it was the main facility equipped to handle mass casualties and provide surgical care. Over 1,300 injured people sought treatment there in the past month alone. The conflict, which started in April 2023, has resulted in more than 15,000 deaths and displaced nearly nine million people, creating the world’s largest displacement crisis. The RSF, reportedly backed by the United Arab Emirates, has been accused of numerous abuses, including a massacre of 150 people in Gezira state and a campaign of ethnic cleansing in Darfur. Peace talks have repeatedly failed, and the UN warns of a looming hunger catastrophe affecting millions. 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