An investigation details how M23/AFC raises revenue through taxes and Congolese minerals, including coltan trade linked to routes through Rwanda. An investigation By The New Humanitarian describes a parallel taxation and financial system across M23/AFC-controlled eastern DRC, while tracing Congolese coltan and other trade across the border into Rwanda. By XTRAfrica Analysis Desk September 15, 2026 The war economy operating in parts of eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo is not sustained by minerals alone. It is also built on checkpoints, commercial fees, transport levies, compulsory registrations and payments collected from people attempting to continue ordinary life under rebel control. That is the central finding of a September 14 investigation by The New Humanitarian , reported by journalist Patricia Huon with contributions from a Congolese researcher working anonymously because of security concerns. The investigation describes how the M23 and its political coalition, the Alliance Fleuve Congo, have embedded revenue collection into the economy of territories they control. According to the report, the money helps pay fighters, operate a parallel administration and reinforce control over captured Congolese territory. Its findings also show the limits of that system. The rebellion is extracting revenue from communities already weakened by conflict, disrupted trade, business closures, cash shortages and declining purchasing power. The result is a structure capable of financing armed control while offering little economic recovery to the civilians living beneath it. A tax system built around daily survival According to The New Humanitarian’s interviews, M23/AFC revenue collection reaches across several layers of economic activity. Trucks carrying goods reportedly pay at checkpoints. Motorcycle taxis moving between towns are charged. Shops, warehouses, informal traders and cross-border businesses face levies or registration demands. Fuel, agricultural products, timber, charcoal and manufactured goods moving through rebel-held territory can also become sources of revenue. The investigation further reports that civilians pay for services and administrative documents in areas where the rebellion has imposed its authority. Some residents described demands for money, goods, labour or a portion of their harvest. Continue Reading Full Article WAR IN DR CONGO How Taxes and Congolese Minerals Finance the M23 Rebellion By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Sep 15, 2026 Sep 15, 2026 13 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: An investigation By The New Humanitarian describes a parallel taxation and financial system across M23/AFC-controlled eastern DRC, while tracing Congolese coltan and other trade across the border into Rwanda. By XTRAfrica Analysis Desk September 15, 2026 The war economy operating in parts of eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo is not sustained by minerals alone. It is also built on checkpoints, commercial fees, transport levies, compulsory registrations and payments collected from people attempting to continue ordinary life under rebel control. That is the central finding of a September 14 investigation by The New Humanitarian , reported by journalist Patricia Huon with contributions from a Congolese researcher working anonymously because of security concerns. The investigation describes how the M23 and its political coalition, the Alliance Fleuve Congo, have embedded revenue collection into the economy of territories they control. According to the report, the money helps pay fighters, operate a parallel administration and reinforce control over captured Congolese territory. Its findings also show the limits of that system. The rebellion is extracting revenue from communities already weakened by conflict, disrupted trade, business closures, cash shortages and declining purchasing power. The result is a structure capable of financing armed control while offering little economic recovery to the civilians living beneath it. A tax system built around daily survival According to The New Humanitarian’s interviews, M23/AFC revenue collection reaches across several layers of economic activity. Trucks carrying goods reportedly pay at checkpoints. Motorcycle taxis moving between towns are charged. Shops, warehouses, informal traders and cross-border businesses face levies or registration demands. Fuel, agricultural products, timber, charcoal and manufactured goods moving through rebel-held territory can also become sources of revenue. The investigation further reports that civilians pay for services and administrative documents in areas where the rebellion has imposed its authority. Some residents described demands for money, goods, labour or a portion of their harvest. These individual payments may appear small when examined separately. Together, however, they can create a regular stream of income from transport, markets, trade and basic services. That predictability is important: a rebellion that can collect money every day is less dependent on occasional outside transfers or the sale of a single mineral shipment. The burden ultimately falls on ordinary Congolese. A transport fee can raise the price of food before it reaches a market. A charge on a trader can be passed to customers. Repeated checkpoint payments can make local production less competitive and reduce the already-thin margins of small businesses. This is the defining contradiction of the system described in the investigation. M23/AFC needs economic activity in order to tax it, but excessive extraction risks closing businesses and deepening the poverty of the population from which it collects revenue. A parallel administration with financial ambitions The New Humanitarian reports that M23/AFC has moved beyond collecting money at checkpoints. It has also attempted to construct institutions that resemble parts of a state administration. ADVERTISEMENT The investigation identifies a rebel-created body known as the Autorité de Régulation du Secteur Économique, Financier et des Assurances, or AREFA. The body reportedly requires financial-sector operators to register or obtain licences and is presented as a regulator in areas controlled by the movement. The report also describes efforts to use branches of the Caisse Générale d’Épargne du Congo in Goma and Bukavu. Yet those branches remain disconnected from the national banking network and cannot access the SWIFT system required for many international transfers. AREFA cannot issue Congolese francs and lacks the reserves of a legitimate central bank. These limitations matter. A movement can compel registration and collect fees, but it cannot easily recreate public confidence, monetary authority or international banking access. Residents interviewed by The New Humanitarian expressed fear that money deposited under the rebel-controlled arrangement might not be secure. The parallel system therefore appears stronger as an instrument for extracting and supervising revenue than as a mechanism capable of restoring normal economic life. Rubaya and the value of coltan taxation The Rubaya mining area in North Kivu is central to understanding the mineral side of the war economy. Its coltan contains tantalum, a metal used in capacitors and electronic equipment worldwide. M23 seized Rubaya in 2024. A United Nations Group of Experts report subsequently described rebel control over production, transport and trade around the mines. The experts estimated that M23 collected approximately $800,000 per month from levies on Rubaya’s coltan production and commerce—nearly $10 million a year if sustained at the same level. Reuters reporting on the UN findings said at least 150 tonnes of coltan were fraudulently exported to Rwanda after M23 took the area. The UN experts described the resulting contamination of regional mineral supply chains as unprecedented in scale over the preceding decade. The New Humanitarian’s investigation adds detail to the financial mechanism. People involved in the trade told the publication that coltan loads are weighed at checkpoints west of Goma and charged per kilogram. The report says payments connected to shipments are made through Rwanda, while access to mining and trading opportunities increasingly depends on acceptance by the rebel movement. The important distinction is that M23 does not need to own every mine or personally export every shipment. Control of territory, roads, checkpoints and market access allows the group to collect revenue at multiple stages of the chain—from extraction to transport and cross-border sale. From Congolese mines to Rwanda-linked export routes The investigation describes minerals from M23/AFC-controlled territory moving across the border into Rwanda, where their Congolese origin may become obscured before they reach international markets. This pattern is supported by sources beyond the September 14 report. The UN Group of Experts documented coltan from Rubaya entering Rwanda and mixing with Rwandan production. Rwanda has limited domestic coltan resources compared with the volumes it exports, a discrepancy that has intensified scrutiny of the country’s mineral trade. A 2026 Global Witness investigation examined trade records and traced Rwanda-labelled coltan through exporters, processors and the international tantalum supply chain. Its analysis warned that minerals originating in M23-controlled Congolese territory could reach global manufacturers after passing through Rwanda-linked commercial networks. ADVERTISEMENT The findings do not establish that every mineral exported from Rwanda comes from the DRC, nor do they prove that every finished electronic device contains conflict-linked material. They do, however, expose a serious traceability problem: once Congolese minerals are mixed, relabelled or processed through several intermediaries, downstream companies may struggle—or fail—to determine their true origin. The International Tin Supply Chain Initiative has suspended certification procedures for minerals from M23/AFC-controlled territory and investigated suspected false declarations of Rwandan origin, according to The New Humanitarian. Yet the continued flow described by journalists, UN experts and investigators suggests that paper-based controls can be defeated when armed actors control the physical routes. Gold expands the economic picture Coltan is the most visible example, but it is not the only mineral connected to the rebellion’s financing. The New Humanitarian points to the capture of mining sites and transport corridors across North and South Kivu. In a separate case, Twangiza Mining alleged that approximately $70 million in gold had been removed from its South Kivu operation after the area fell under rebel control. That figure remains a company claim, but it illustrates the potential scale of revenue associated with access to a major industrial gold site. International authorities have also acted on alleged Rwanda-linked gold networks. In June 2026, the U.S. Treasury sanctioned Gasabo Gold Refinery and associated executives and companies . Treasury said the network worked with M23 to move illegally sourced gold from eastern DRC into Rwanda and described mineral trafficking and unlawful taxation as direct sources of rebel financing. The European Union had previously sanctioned Gasabo Gold Refinery , saying it was responsible for illegally importing gold from M23-controlled parts of the DRC. The EU also sanctioned M23 officials, including an individual it identified as the movement’s deputy head of finance and production. These measures reinforce the wider conclusion that the war economy does not stop at the front line. It depends on commercial actors, transport routes, financial intermediaries and export channels capable of moving Congolese resources into the international marketplace. Rwanda’s role and its denial The New Humanitarian describes Rwanda as M23’s principal external backer and reports that Rwanda-linked businesses and traders have gained prominence in commerce connected to rebel-held areas. Kigali denies directly supporting M23 and has framed its regional security posture around threats posed by armed groups connected to perpetrators of the 1994 genocide. Those denials remain part of Rwanda’s official position. They stand against findings and decisions issued by several international bodies. The UN Group of Experts has repeatedly documented Rwandan military support for M23. In February 2025, the UN Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 2773 , demanding that M23 end its offensives and that the Rwanda Defence Force cease support for the movement and withdraw from Congolese territory. The resolution also condemned illicit exploitation and trafficking of the DRC’s natural resources. The United States and European Union have since used sanctions to target individuals, military structures and commercial entities they say enable the rebellion or benefit from conflict-linked mineral trade. Why the tax system matters as much as the mines The focus on coltan and gold is understandable. Mineral values can be estimated, export records can be examined and international buyers can be identified. But The New Humanitarian’s investigation shows why the taxation system deserves equal attention. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Justice & Crime F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime M23 → AFC → FRN: Has Anything Really Changed? . Justice & Crime Kagame's Failed Justifications for His Military Presence in the DRC . Justice & Crime From AFDL to FRN: Analysts Question Rwanda's Rebel Rebranding . Biography Who Is Marie-Ange Mushobekwa? Age, Career and Kabila Split . ADVERTISEMENT Mineral income can fluctuate with production, prices and access to trade routes. Daily taxes on transport, markets, businesses and services provide a broader financial base. They also help transform territorial occupation into an administrative system that can monitor economic activity and compel compliance. This means that disrupting conflict-mineral exports alone may not eliminate the rebellion’s income. Effective pressure must also address the collection points, transport corridors, commercial intermediaries and financial channels that turn control of Congolese territory into cash. Congo’s wealth and the question of sovereignty The deepest issue is not simply where coltan or gold is sold. It is who has the lawful authority to benefit from resources extracted inside the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Congolese minerals should finance Congolese development: schools, hospitals, roads, electricity, legitimate employment and services for mining communities. When an armed movement imposes taxes, controls routes and channels minerals through external markets, the country loses more than export revenue. Its sovereignty over territory, commerce and public administration is directly challenged. The evidence assembled by The New Humanitarian, UN experts, U.S. and European sanctions authorities and Global Witness points to a system with several connected layers: compulsory local taxation, parallel economic administration, control over mining and transport, cross-border movement into Rwanda and eventual access to global supply chains. That chain explains how occupation can become financially self-reinforcing. Territory creates access to taxpayers and minerals. Revenue supports fighters and administration. Those structures then help preserve control over the territory that produces the next cycle of revenue. Breaking that cycle requires enforcement beyond eastern Congo. Mineral traders must verify origin rather than relying only on documents produced after goods cross a border. Refiners and manufacturers must examine unusual changes in national export volumes. Sanctions must reach the commercial and financial facilitators who convert illicit minerals into internationally tradable products. Above all, international policy must begin from a clear principle: the natural wealth of the Democratic Republic of the Congo belongs to the Congolese people. Any system that finances armed control by diverting that wealth is not ordinary regional trade. It is a direct economic assault on Congolese sovereignty. Source Credit and Further Reading This article is based principally on Patricia Huon and a Congolese researcher’s investigation for The New Humanitarian: “How Rwanda-backed M23 rebels finance their war in DR Congo” , published September 14, 2026. XTRAfrica independently reviewed the supporting materials linked below and has clearly attributed allegations, estimates and investigative findings. UN Group of Experts report on the Democratic Republic of the Congo — S/2024/969 UN Security Council Resolution 2773 coverage U.S. Treasury sanctions targeting a Rwanda-linked conflict-minerals network European Union sanctions related to M23 and illicit natural-resource trade Global Witness investigation into the international journey of Rwanda-labelled coltan ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Justice & Crime F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner Congo's foreign minister questions Formula 1's Rwanda decision, citing M23, human rights and financing . Justice & Crime M23 → AFC → FRN: Has Anything Really Changed? XTRAfrica examines Joseph Kabila's leadership of the FRN, its continuity with AFC/M23 and ... . Justice & Crime Kagame's Failed Justifications for His Military Presence in the DRC UN findings, U.S. sanctions and the reported FRN launch raise questions about Kigali's military role . Justice & Crime From AFDL to FRN: Analysts Question Rwanda's Rebel Rebranding FRN's reported emergence in Goma revives debate over Rwanda's links to successive Congo rebellions. . Tags DRC Conflict & Security DRC Conflict & Security Rwanda Rwanda Peace For DRC Now Peace For DRC Now DR.Congo DR.Congo

Cher received a standing ovation at the 2026 Grammys, sharing candid reflections on setbacks, resilience, and artistic perseverance. According to the source article, music legend Cher delivered a candid and reflective acceptance speech at the 2026 Grammy Awards after receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award , offering advice drawn from decades of success and professional setbacks. Cher delivers powerful acceptan… The singer was met with a standing ovation as she took the stage, briefly asking the audience to be seated before beginning her remarks. Cher reflected on achieving fame early in life, noting that while she had clarity about her ambitions from childhood and found success as a teenager, she had not anticipated the instability that would later define parts of her career. During her speech, she spoke openly about the fluctuating nature of her professional journey, describing periods of recognition alongside moments of rejection. She referenced difficult years in the early 1980s, recalling how she was pushed into Las Vegas performances—then widely viewed as a sign of career decline—and later dropped by her record label. Cher credited her resurgence to the release of Believe , the 1998 hit that helped redefine her career. She noted that the song was among the first mainstream tracks to use what was then referred to as a “pitch machine,” later known as Auto-Tune. The track went on to earn her a Grammy Award in 2000 for Best Dance Recording and a nomination for Record of the Year. Turning her remarks toward younger artists, Cher emphasized resilience and persistence, encouraging musicians to remain committed to their ambitions despite setbacks. She urged creatives to continue pursuing their goals even when progress feels delayed. Now 79, Cher is a two-time Grammy Award winner whose influence spans music, film, and television , with her Grammys 2026 appearance underscoring her enduring legacy in the entertainment industry. Source: Geo News Digital Desk Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT Cher Reflects on Career Journey in Grammys 2026 Acceptance Speech By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Feb 2, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: According to the source article, music legend Cher delivered a candid and reflective acceptance speech at the 2026 Grammy Awards after receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award , offering advice drawn from decades of success and professional setbacks. Cher delivers powerful acceptan… The singer was met with a standing ovation as she took the stage, briefly asking the audience to be seated before beginning her remarks. Cher reflected on achieving fame early in life, noting that while she had clarity about her ambitions from childhood and found success as a teenager, she had not anticipated the instability that would later define parts of her career. ADVERTISEMENT During her speech, she spoke openly about the fluctuating nature of her professional journey, describing periods of recognition alongside moments of rejection. She referenced difficult years in the early 1980s, recalling how she was pushed into Las Vegas performances—then widely viewed as a sign of career decline—and later dropped by her record label. Cher credited her resurgence to the release of Believe , the 1998 hit that helped redefine her career. She noted that the song was among the first mainstream tracks to use what was then referred to as a “pitch machine,” later known as Auto-Tune. The track went on to earn her a Grammy Award in 2000 for Best Dance Recording and a nomination for Record of the Year. ADVERTISEMENT Turning her remarks toward younger artists, Cher emphasized resilience and persistence, encouraging musicians to remain committed to their ambitions despite setbacks. She urged creatives to continue pursuing their goals even when progress feels delayed. Now 79, Cher is a two-time Grammy Award winner whose influence spans music, film, and television , with her Grammys 2026 appearance underscoring her enduring legacy in the entertainment industry. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . ADVERTISEMENT Source: Geo News Digital Desk ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs Inside the Nigerian dancer’s rise from Ojo street shows to Afrobeats stages, music and global fame. . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life How Eric Omondi rose through Churchill Show and became a prominent Kenyan activist. . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? The neuroscientist and educator became Eritrea’s first Miss World entrant and reached the Top 6 . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment United States United States

Awilo Longomba lights up the 2025 CAF Awards with his iconic soukous sound, uniting football and music in a powerful celebration of African culture. The scene in Rabat was electric. As Africa’s football elite gathered for the 2025 CAF Awards , an unexpected star all but stole the show. Awilo Longomba , the Congolese soukous legend behind 90s anthems like “Karolina” and “Coupé Bibamba” , wasn’t just a musical guest he was the night’s cultural MVP. The moment Awilo hit the stage, a formal awards gala transformed into a pan-African dance party. Dressed in his flamboyant style and armed with that infectious smile, the 63-year-old icon had diplomats, strikers and dignitaries alike on their feet, revisiting hip-swaying moves they hadn’t busted out in years. It’s not every day you see a Ballon d’Or contender attempting ndombolo footwork in a tuxedo but such is the power of Awilo’s groove . Awilo’s set came after a Moroccan pop opener and before Ghana’s afrobeats star Fuse ODG closed a billing that symbolized a convergence of generations . When the Congolese maestro finally took his turn under the lights, you could feel the energy rippling across Mohammed VI Polytechnic’s auditorium. Backed by a full band, he launched into classic soukous rhythms with driving percussion and joyful dance breaks , true to his hallmark mix of unstoppable rhythm and generous stagecraft . Within seconds, the audience caught the vibe. Camera pans showed football legends like Mohamed Salah and Achraf Hakimi nodding along, while others couldn’t resist standing to wriggle their shoulders and hips. Why did this moment feel so big? For one, Awilo Longomba is a bona fide African icon whose music transcends eras. Two decades ago, he dominated dance floors from Kinshasa to Kampala with a new hybrid of techno-infused soukous. His 1998 hit “Coupé Bibamba” wasn’t just a catchy tune it became a pan-African classic, blasting from nightclubs in Lagos and minibuses in Nairobi . At the turn of the millennium, Awilo’s popularity was so colossal that he became the first artist ever to sell out Lagos’s 45,000-capacity National Stadium three nights in a row . (Yes, you read that right a Congolese singer had tens of thousands of Nigerian fans packing a football stadium, three consecutive days . The man is legend.) Even now, mention his name and any Afro-pop lover of a certain age will likely break into the “Coupe Bibamba” chorus on cue. Having Awilo grace the CAF Awards was more than a nostalgia trip it was a reminder that African music legends still reign in our collective memory. What made Awilo’s appearance especially meaningful was the cultural bridge it created with the world of sport. Here were Africa’s top footballers being crowned the Salahs, Osimhens and Ajibades yet the loudest cheers weren’t just for the golden trophies but for the golden oldies lighting up the stage. Awilo himself felt the synergy. Backstage, brimming with pride, he reflected that the night was serendipitous: Continue Reading Full Article MUSICS Awilo Longomba Ignites CAF Awards 2025 By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Nov 19, 2025 May 15, 2026 9 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The scene in Rabat was electric. As Africa’s football elite gathered for the 2025 CAF Awards , an unexpected star all but stole the show. Awilo Longomba , the Congolese soukous legend behind 90s anthems like “Karolina” and “Coupé Bibamba” , wasn’t just a musical guest he was the night’s cultural MVP. The moment Awilo hit the stage, a formal awards gala transformed into a pan-African dance party. Dressed in his flamboyant style and armed with that infectious smile, the 63-year-old icon had diplomats, strikers and dignitaries alike on their feet, revisiting hip-swaying moves they hadn’t busted out in years. It’s not every day you see a Ballon d’Or contender attempting ndombolo footwork in a tuxedo but such is the power of Awilo’s groove . Awilo’s set came after a Moroccan pop opener and before Ghana’s afrobeats star Fuse ODG closed a billing that symbolized a convergence of generations . When the Congolese maestro finally took his turn under the lights, you could feel the energy rippling across Mohammed VI Polytechnic’s auditorium. Backed by a full band, he launched into classic soukous rhythms with driving percussion and joyful dance breaks , true to his hallmark mix of unstoppable rhythm and generous stagecraft . Within seconds, the audience caught the vibe. Camera pans showed football legends like Mohamed Salah and Achraf Hakimi nodding along, while others couldn’t resist standing to wriggle their shoulders and hips. Why did this moment feel so big? For one, Awilo Longomba is a bona fide African icon whose music transcends eras. Two decades ago, he dominated dance floors from Kinshasa to Kampala with a new hybrid of techno-infused soukous. His 1998 hit “Coupé Bibamba” wasn’t just a catchy tune it became a pan-African classic, blasting from nightclubs in Lagos and minibuses in Nairobi . ADVERTISEMENT At the turn of the millennium, Awilo’s popularity was so colossal that he became the first artist ever to sell out Lagos’s 45,000-capacity National Stadium three nights in a row . (Yes, you read that right a Congolese singer had tens of thousands of Nigerian fans packing a football stadium, three consecutive days . The man is legend.) Even now, mention his name and any Afro-pop lover of a certain age will likely break into the “Coupe Bibamba” chorus on cue. Having Awilo grace the CAF Awards was more than a nostalgia trip it was a reminder that African music legends still reign in our collective memory. What made Awilo’s appearance especially meaningful was the cultural bridge it created with the world of sport. Here were Africa’s top footballers being crowned the Salahs, Osimhens and Ajibades yet the loudest cheers weren’t just for the golden trophies but for the golden oldies lighting up the stage. Awilo himself felt the synergy. Backstage, brimming with pride, he reflected that the night was serendipitous: “My country, the DR Congo, won a great match against Nigeria a few days ago, and now I’m going to sing at the CAF Awards. It’s one good thing after another!” he exclaimed . For him, football and music have always intertwined. He grew up in Kinshasa surrounded by local football heroes, and he understands the fervor first-hand as he put it, “Football has always held a huge place in my life,” and being here to celebrate the sport felt like destiny . Little wonder he gave the performance every ounce of passion he had. ADVERTISEMENT When Awilo broke into “Karolina” , with its blazing guitar riffs and call-and-response chorus, the auditorium turned into a pan-African karaoke. Even those who didn’t know the Lingala lyrics were clapping and humming along. On social media, attendees posted clips of CAF President Patrice Motsepe attempting Awilo’s signature knee-bend dance proof that the joyous spirit was contagious. The night underscored a beautiful truth: football, music and culture are forces that unite Africa . Awilo himself articulated it best, noting that events like these “bring us together and reinforce our role as ambassadors of African culture” . Here was a soukus superstar often dubbed the Soukous King sharing the spotlight with football kings and queens, and the result was pure magic. The CAF Awards ceased to be just a trophy presentation; they became a pan-African block party, a place where the beat and the ball shared equal billing. Awilo’s presence also spoke to the pan-African identity of contemporary Afropop . Sharing the stage with younger stars like Fuse ODG (who calls Awilo “Papa” affectionately) symbolized a passing of the torch. The Ghanaian-British Fuse represents the new school the Afrobeats generation making waves globally and he’s been vocal about legends like Awilo paving the way. “He’s almost like a son to me,” Awilo said of Fuse during the meet-up, clearly delighted to see the next generation thrive . That cross-generational camaraderie was palpable in Rabat. As Angélique Kidjo another legend, hosting the show stood offstage dancing along, it was a powerful image of African music’s continuum: the veterans cheering on the youngbloods, and vice versa. The ceremony united Francophone and Anglophone Africa, North, West, Central and beyond, through the universal languages of rhythm and passion. It was a living, breathing OkayAfrica moment if ever there was one. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today African Culture Vyroota Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs & Rise from Kireka . Entertainment Seputla Sebogodi Dies: Cause of Death and Biography . Investment Deals Burundi-Washington Nickel Deal Signals Great Lakes Strategic Shift . Afrobeats Ekunrawo and Jux Release New Afro-R&B Collaboration ‘Halima’ . Musics Bobi Wine Declined 10% Stake Offer in Uganda’s Galaxy FM . ADVERTISEMENT In the lead-up to the event, Awilo had been hyping fans about his performance on Instagram posting a flyer and excitedly telling everyone he’d “see you on 19 November in Rabat” for the big night (@awilolongomba on Instagram). And he did not disappoint. By the next morning, #AwiloLongomba was trending across several African countries as clips of his explosive performance made the rounds. From Nairobi to Lagos, viewers at home were buzzing about how the CAF Awards suddenly felt like a concert they wished they hadn’t missed. “Awilo turning the CAF Awards into a Ndombolo festival is the content I signed up for,” one tweet read, summing up the joyful surprise of the night. Even CAF’s own X account had teased his set as “legendary grooves” beforehand, and those grooves proved timeless indeed. It’s not every awards show that ends with people in formal wear doing Congolese dances, but that’s exactly what went down and social media loved it. Perhaps the most striking aspect of Awilo’s CAF Awards moment is how it highlights the respect African institutions now give to pop culture icons. Where once a sports awards ceremony might have relegated singers to mere interludes, this year the music was front and center integral to the story. In honoring African excellence, CAF acknowledged that cultural legends like Awilo Longomba are part of that excellence. The reception he got from the crowd (and online after) was akin to a lifetime achievement award, even if unofficial. It sends a message: Africa’s creative giants deserve to stand on the podium too. As Pulse Nigeria wrote in a similar context years ago, Awilo has gone from being an usher at early-2000s awards shows to being the headliner at today’s a testament to how far African music has come. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles African Culture Vyroota Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs & Rise from Kireka Discover Vyroota’s age, family roots, breakthrough songs, award and journey from Kireka. . Entertainment Seputla Sebogodi Dies: Cause of Death and Biography Veteran Generations actor Seputla Sebogodi died after complications related to diabetes . Investment Deals Burundi-Washington Nickel Deal Signals Great Lakes Strategic Shift Burundi’s Washington nickel agreement sharpens Great Lakes competition over critical minerals. . Afrobeats Ekunrawo and Jux Release New Afro-R&B Collaboration ‘Halima’ Nigerian singer Ekunrawo partners with Tanzanian star Jux on the cross-border single ‘Halima’. . Tags African Entertainment African Entertainment Musics Musics DR.Congo DR.Congo African Musics African Musics Top African musicians Top African musicians Congolese Musics Congolese Musics Culture & Entertainment Culture & Entertainment Pan-African Music Festivals 2025 Pan-African Music Festivals 2025

Luke Baartman came off during South Africa U23’s draw with Algeria. Read what happened, his Chiefs progress and what remains unknown about the injury. BLOEMFONTEIN, South Africa — 5 October 2026 : Kaizer Chiefs forward Luke Baartman has become an injury concern after coming off shortly before half-time in South Africa U23’s 1–1 friendly draw with Algeria on Sunday, 4 October. Afrik-Foot’s match report says Baartman picked up a knock and was replaced by Stellenbosch striker Quwan Plaatjies. GOAL also reports that the attacker could not complete the first half. Neither account provides an official diagnosis or a confirmed period out of action. The immediate question is how the withdrawal affects his availability for Chiefs. Coming off during a match does not establish that he will miss the club’s next fixture. What happened to Luke Baartman against Algeria? Reports say the Kaizer Chiefs forward picked up a knock and was replaced before half-time in South Africa U23’s 1–1 draw on 4 October. The withdrawal is reported by multiple outlets, but the injury’s severity and his return date remain unconfirmed. He should not yet be described as ruled out. Baartman comes off as the friendly finishes level The South African Football Association’s official match record confirms the 1–1 result at Dr Rantlai Petrus Molemela Stadium. It records the match on Sunday, 4 October, with a 3pm SAST kick-off. The withdrawal came near the end of the first half, according to GOAL’s account . Plaatjies came on as South Africa continued its preparations for Olympic qualifying. The Sowetan’s match report describes a game in which the hosts created opportunities but could not turn their pressure into a winning goal. A Kutlwano Letlhaku cross produced an Algerian own goal before the visitors equalised. The teams remained level through the second half. For Baartman, the substitution ended an opportunity to build further international playing time. For the team, the result completed the two-match series after South Africa won the first encounter 3–1. An interruption to his Chiefs progress Continue Reading Full Article SPORTS TRENDS Luke Baartman Injury Concern After South Africa U23 Draw With Algeria By Kamau Bahati Entertainment Editor Kamau Bahati Home Comment Oct 5, 2026 Oct 5, 2026 5 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: BLOEMFONTEIN, South Africa — 5 October 2026 : Kaizer Chiefs forward Luke Baartman has become an injury concern after coming off shortly before half-time in South Africa U23’s 1–1 friendly draw with Algeria on Sunday, 4 October. Afrik-Foot’s match report says Baartman picked up a knock and was replaced by Stellenbosch striker Quwan Plaatjies. GOAL also reports that the attacker could not complete the first half. Neither account provides an official diagnosis or a confirmed period out of action. The immediate question is how the withdrawal affects his availability for Chiefs. Coming off during a match does not establish that he will miss the club’s next fixture. What happened to Luke Baartman against Algeria? Reports say the Kaizer Chiefs forward picked up a knock and was replaced before half-time in South Africa U23’s 1–1 draw on 4 October. The withdrawal is reported by multiple outlets, but the injury’s severity and his return date remain unconfirmed. He should not yet be described as ruled out. Baartman comes off as the friendly finishes level The South African Football Association’s official match record confirms the 1–1 result at Dr Rantlai Petrus Molemela Stadium. It records the match on Sunday, 4 October, with a 3pm SAST kick-off. The withdrawal came near the end of the first half, according to GOAL’s account . Plaatjies came on as South Africa continued its preparations for Olympic qualifying. The Sowetan’s match report describes a game in which the hosts created opportunities but could not turn their pressure into a winning goal. A Kutlwano Letlhaku cross produced an Algerian own goal before the visitors equalised. The teams remained level through the second half. ADVERTISEMENT For Baartman, the substitution ended an opportunity to build further international playing time. For the team, the result completed the two-match series after South Africa won the first encounter 3–1. An interruption to his Chiefs progress Baartman’s latest national-team appearance follows a more encouraging start to his club season. In an official August feature , Chiefs reported that he had played in their first three Premiership fixtures and scored his first goal for the club in a 2–0 victory over Sekhukhune United. The club described the finish as a first-time strike at the end of a move involving Dillan Solomons and Langelihle Phili. Baartman credited his teammates and the technical staff for helping him reach that milestone. That account provides useful context for the concern over his latest withdrawal: he had begun converting opportunities into a visible contribution at senior level. It does not establish that every subsequent selection was guaranteed or that any absence would have a particular length. ADVERTISEMENT Chiefs’ broader squad changes are covered in XTRAfrica’s report on Thabo Cele’s departure . Baartman’s situation is separate: the current question concerns fitness and availability, rather than a change of club. Why the national-team return meant something to him Days before the Algeria draw, Baartman spoke about earlier setbacks on international duty. In an iDiski Times interview published on 2 October , he said injury had prevented him from taking part in previous COSAFA and Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations opportunities. He attributed his return to the national setup to continued work and said representing South Africa could help a player’s career. “It can also change your career playing for your national team,” he told iDiski Times. That earlier experience gives the latest concern personal significance without establishing a recurring medical condition. No evidence reviewed links Sunday’s knock to his previous injury. Baartman’s U23 involvement also belongs to a wider development pathway in South African football. XTRAfrica’s Steven Mendes profile follows another Chiefs-associated prospect’s national youth-team progress. Their careers and age-group assignments should be assessed separately. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Social Service Joburg Power Outage: City Power Withdraws Restoration Target . Social Service SASSA November 2026 Payment Dates Changed: New Calendar Explained . Power Outages Johannesburg Power Outage: Fourth Substation Fire Disrupts Inner City . Biography Justin Galloway Biography: Career and Boxer CEO-Designate Appointment . Biography Andrea Johnson Biography: Career, Education and IDAC Leadership . ADVERTISEMENT What is known about his availability? The available reports support a narrow conclusion: Baartman was substituted after a reported knock. A precise injury type, scan result, treatment plan and return-to-training date have not been established in the sources reviewed. That leaves an important distinction between an injury concern and a confirmed absence. Reports describing discomfort during the match cannot establish whether he will be available for a later club selection. Chiefs has advertised its forthcoming Stellenbosch home fixture in an official ticket notice . That notice concerns the match arrangements; it does not announce Baartman’s fitness or inclusion in the team. Supporters can follow XTRAfrica’s South African football coverage for subsequent developments. The next meaningful update would be an attributable assessment from Chiefs or the national-team medical staff, followed by a training or match-squad decision. Until then, his availability remains unresolved. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Social Service Joburg Power Outage: City Power Withdraws Restoration Target Another explosion at Central Substation delays power in Marshalltown and the Johannesburg CBD. . Social Service SASSA November 2026 Payment Dates Changed: New Calendar Explained November grants start on 30 October. Check the new dates, review payments and election changes. . Power Outages Johannesburg Power Outage: Fourth Substation Fire Disrupts Inner City Fourth fire at City Power's Central Substation triggers renewed electricity cuts in Johannesburg. . Biography Justin Galloway Biography: Career and Boxer CEO-Designate Appointment Meet Justin Galloway, a retail executive chosen to lead Boxer after years in finance and supply chains. . Tags Southern Africa News Southern Africa News Breaking News Breaking News South Africa South Africa

Read Blaq Major’s biography: real name, KwaZulu-Natal roots, football past, Sdakiwe Sbali, albums, awards and latest 2026 music. Blaq Major is the South African producer, DJ and recording artist behind “Sdakiwe Sbali,” a 2024 hit that carried his studio instincts into the national spotlight. Born Thamsanqa Clifford Mpanza and raised in KwaZulu-Natal, he moved from a serious football dream to years of largely uncredited production work before Master KG helped open a new career chapter. His records now connect amapiano and electronic dance music with the melodic memory of maskandi. Who is Blaq Major? Blaq Major is South African producer and DJ Thamsanqa Clifford Mpanza. A former Lamontville Golden Arrows reserve player, he broke through with “Sdakiwe Sbali,” won Gagasi FM’s 2024 Song of the Year and released the albums Ithemba and Ancestors . He continues to produce his own music while creating opportunities for emerging singers. The Bolo-House Pulse Behind “Sdakiwe Sbali” Blaq Major’s best records leave room for a voice to lead. He builds around repeating keyboard phrases, patient percussion and bass that arrives with enough weight to make a chorus feel communal. The approach sits close to amapiano, but it also carries the faster, emotionally direct pull often called bolo house. His Spotify artist profile describes a wider meeting of electronic production and traditional African rhythm. “Sdakiwe Sbali,” featuring Bless The Gentleman and DJ Kap, is the clearest example. Released on 12 August 2024, it turns a drinking confession into a singalong without crowding the vocalist. A restrained opening gives way to bright keys, rolling drums and a refrain designed for repetition. The official recording credits name Thamsanqa Clifford Mpanza as producer, confirming that the artist at the front of the release also shaped its sound. XTRAfrica’s “Sdakiwe Sbali” download and lyrics page captures the record at the centre of his breakthrough, while the full Blaq Major songs archive follows the catalogue that grew around it. Maskandi Memory and KwaZulu-Natal Identity Mpanza grew up in KwaZulu-Natal in a home led by his mother. He told the Herald that she loved maskandi, so the guitar-led storytelling tradition became part of his earliest musical environment. That influence does not make his electronic records sound like conventional maskandi. It appears instead in their direct emotion, circular melodies and respect for the singer’s story. “Music has always been my first love.” That statement helps explain why his productions can feel rooted without being nostalgic. IsiZulu vocals and South African dance rhythms often sit beside digital textures built for current clubs and streaming audiences. XTRAfrica’s South African music hub places his work inside the country’s much larger field of amapiano, Afro-house and pop releases. Continue Reading Full Article AFRICAN CULTURE Blaq Major Biography: Real Name, Songs, Albums and Career By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Aug 16, 2026 Aug 16, 2026 11 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Blaq Major is the South African producer, DJ and recording artist behind “Sdakiwe Sbali,” a 2024 hit that carried his studio instincts into the national spotlight. Born Thamsanqa Clifford Mpanza and raised in KwaZulu-Natal, he moved from a serious football dream to years of largely uncredited production work before Master KG helped open a new career chapter. His records now connect amapiano and electronic dance music with the melodic memory of maskandi. Who is Blaq Major? Blaq Major is South African producer and DJ Thamsanqa Clifford Mpanza. A former Lamontville Golden Arrows reserve player, he broke through with “Sdakiwe Sbali,” won Gagasi FM’s 2024 Song of the Year and released the albums Ithemba and Ancestors . He continues to produce his own music while creating opportunities for emerging singers. The Bolo-House Pulse Behind “Sdakiwe Sbali” Blaq Major’s best records leave room for a voice to lead. He builds around repeating keyboard phrases, patient percussion and bass that arrives with enough weight to make a chorus feel communal. The approach sits close to amapiano, but it also carries the faster, emotionally direct pull often called bolo house. His Spotify artist profile describes a wider meeting of electronic production and traditional African rhythm. “Sdakiwe Sbali,” featuring Bless The Gentleman and DJ Kap, is the clearest example. Released on 12 August 2024, it turns a drinking confession into a singalong without crowding the vocalist. A restrained opening gives way to bright keys, rolling drums and a refrain designed for repetition. The official recording credits name Thamsanqa Clifford Mpanza as producer, confirming that the artist at the front of the release also shaped its sound. XTRAfrica’s “Sdakiwe Sbali” download and lyrics page captures the record at the centre of his breakthrough, while the full Blaq Major songs archive follows the catalogue that grew around it. Maskandi Memory and KwaZulu-Natal Identity Mpanza grew up in KwaZulu-Natal in a home led by his mother. He told the Herald that she loved maskandi, so the guitar-led storytelling tradition became part of his earliest musical environment. That influence does not make his electronic records sound like conventional maskandi. It appears instead in their direct emotion, circular melodies and respect for the singer’s story. “Music has always been my first love.” That statement helps explain why his productions can feel rooted without being nostalgic. IsiZulu vocals and South African dance rhythms often sit beside digital textures built for current clubs and streaming audiences. XTRAfrica’s South African music hub places his work inside the country’s much larger field of amapiano, Afro-house and pop releases. The name carries intention too. In a 2026 Herald profile , he explained that “BlaQ” represents black excellence, while “Major” reflects his ambition to become one of the best at his craft. It is a professional identity built around aspiration rather than a disguise for his real name. Formative Life: From Golden Arrows Reserves to the Studio Music was not Blaq Major’s only possible career. As a young man, he was a promising footballer who played for the reserve side of Lamontville Golden Arrows. He hoped to reach the senior team, but the opportunity never arrived. The setback forced a decision: continue waiting for football or give full attention to the other discipline that had already claimed him. He chose the studio. The early years were not glamorous. Mpanza spent a long period working as a resident producer, contributing behind the scenes without always receiving public credit. That experience taught him how to support different voices and how much persistence is required before a producer’s name becomes part of the song’s appeal. ADVERTISEMENT His public discography began to take shape in 2023 with releases including “Uthando Aluboni,” “Khaya Lami” and “Abantu Abajabule.” They established an independent base, but not yet the scale of audience that would arrive one year later. Master KG and the Breakthrough That Changed His Direction Master KG played the pivotal connector. The internationally known producer recognised Blaq Major’s potential and helped bring his work into the Wanitwa Mos Entertainment circle. For an artist accustomed to invisible studio labour, that support supplied both credibility and access. XTRAfrica’s Master KG songs page shows the catalogue of the producer who helped widen that path. “Sdakiwe Sbali” converted the opportunity into a result. After growing across radio, social video and dance spaces, the track won Gagasi FM’s Song of the Year for 2024. Blaq Major told TimesLIVE after the result: “I’m really happy that people loved my song to take it this far.” The record then earned nominations for Song of the Year and Best Amapiano Song at the 2025 Metro FM Music Awards. Sowetan’s nominations coverage placed him among the artists entering that national industry conversation. A nomination is not a win, but it confirmed that his breakthrough had moved beyond a regional radio victory. Blaq Major Career Timeline Year Event Significance 2023 Releases “Uthando Aluboni,” “Khaya Lami” and “Abantu Abajabule” Establishes his verified public catalogue. 2024 Releases Ithemba and “Sdakiwe Sbali” Finds a national breakthrough and wins Gagasi FM Song of the Year. 2025 Releases Ancestors Expands into a 14-track album with Nkosazana Daughter, Q Twins and other collaborators. 2025 Receives two Metro FM Music Awards nominations Earns recognition in Song of the Year and Best Amapiano Song. 2026 Works with young Zimbabwean singer Liora Music Extends his producer role into cross-border artist development. 2026 Releases “Voices in My Head” featuring Kyran Taylor Opens his latest verified chapter as a lead artist. Ithemba , Ancestors and the Catalogue Beyond One Hit Streaming catalogues list Ithemba in 2024 and Ancestors in 2025. The latter is Blaq Major’s latest album and his strongest statement of range. Released through Wanitwa Mos Entertainment on 25 April 2025, the 14-track set runs for 51 minutes and keeps collaborative voices at its centre. Nkosazana Daughter and Bless appear on “Amaphutha,” Q Twins join “Injabulo,” and Mzamo Ngcobo and Sphiwe feature on “Faki Beer.” “Amagama,” “Hlala Nami,” “Stimela,” “Ngiyafisa,” “Nguwe Lo” and “Thando Lwakho” deepen the record before “Sdakiwe Sbali” returns as its closing anchor. The Apple Music edition of Ancestors confirms the sequence, collaborators and release date. The next singles kept him active. “Lengoma” with Bless arrived in July 2025, followed by “Vele Beng’dakiwe” and “Ke December” in September. His most visible achievements so far include: Gagasi FM Song of the Year for “Sdakiwe Sbali” in 2024. Metro FM Music Awards nominations for Song of the Year and Best Amapiano Song in 2025. A full Wanitwa Mos album built around multiple South African vocal collaborators. More than 100,000 Spotify monthly listeners by August 2026. “Success isn’t given; it’s earned in the studio.” The line describes a catalogue driven less by celebrity biography than by repetition, arrangement and patient collaboration. ADVERTISEMENT The Person Behind Blaq Major Blaq Major’s public story is unusually focused on work. His mother’s single-parent household, her love of maskandi and his football experience are documented, but the names of his parents, his education, height and exact birth date have not been reliably published. No spouse, partner or children have been publicly confirmed through strong first-person or major-media reporting. That boundary matters. A producer can write emotionally open songs without turning every part of private life into public evidence. The available interviews instead reveal his professional temperament: he values discipline, remembers what it felt like to go uncredited and treats Master KG’s support as a model he can pass forward. An Emerging Cross-Border Impact In 2026, Blaq Major began applying that model beyond South Africa. He discovered 18-year-old Zimbabwean singer Liora Music through TikTok and worked with her on “Othandweni Kuyaphileka.” The collaboration was not simply a feature exchange. He described Zimbabwe as rich in voices and stories and framed his role as giving a young artist the kind of opening Master KG once gave him. That makes mentorship an early but meaningful part of his influence. He is not yet an elder statesman, and his catalogue remains young. Still, moving from overlooked resident producer to someone able to identify and platform another emerging voice creates a useful cycle. The Herald also connected him with Zimbabwean artist Jaycee Rapaddict, suggesting that his cross-border network is becoming a deliberate part of the career rather than a one-off campaign. What Comes Next for Blaq Major in 2026? The year has kept Blaq Major close to the Wanitwa Mos orbit. “Nkanyezi Yami,” featuring Harrycane and Blaq Major, appeared in February 2026 within Master KG’s current release programme. His own catalogue then added “Voices in My Head,” featuring Kyran Taylor, on 18 July 2026. Apple Music lists it as his latest release as of 16 August 2026. No new album after Ancestors had been formally announced by that date. The clearer direction is collaborative: more singer-led records, more work across southern African borders and a continuing blend of electronic structure with vernacular storytelling. His next test is to turn the recognition attached to one major hit into a catalogue whose producer credit carries its own expectation. Blaq Major FAQs What is Blaq Major’s real name? Blaq Major’s real name is Thamsanqa Clifford Mpanza. Music credits sometimes shorten it to Thamsanqa Mpanza. Where is Blaq Major from? He is from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Streaming profiles identify Durban, while interviews more broadly describe his KwaZulu-Natal roots. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Biography Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Social Service Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Joburg Power Outage: City Power Withdraws Restoration Target . Social Service SASSA November 2026 Payment Dates Changed: New Calendar Explained . Power Outages Johannesburg Power Outage: Fourth Substation Fire Disrupts Inner City . ADVERTISEMENT How old is Blaq Major? His exact birth date and age have not been reliably published by an official profile or major interview as of August 2026. What does the name Blaq Major mean? He has said “BlaQ” represents black excellence and “Major” expresses his goal of becoming one of the best in his field. Did Blaq Major play football? Yes. He played for the Lamontville Golden Arrows reserve team and hoped to reach the senior side before committing fully to music. Who discovered Blaq Major? Master KG recognised his production talent and played a pivotal role in bringing him into a wider professional music network. Which song made Blaq Major famous? “Sdakiwe Sbali,” featuring Bless The Gentleman and DJ Kap, was his national breakthrough. It won Gagasi FM’s 2024 Song of the Year. What are Blaq Major’s best-known songs? His catalogue includes “Sdakiwe Sbali,” “Amaphutha,” “Faki Beer,” “Ngiyafisa,” “Injabulo,” “Lengoma,” “Vele Beng’dakiwe” and “Voices in My Head.” How many albums has Blaq Major released? Streaming catalogues list two albums: Ithemba (2024) and Ancestors (2025). Ancestors is his latest album. What awards has Blaq Major won? He won Gagasi FM’s 2024 Song of the Year with “Sdakiwe Sbali.” The song also received two nominations at the 2025 Metro FM Music Awards. What is Blaq Major’s latest song? As of 16 August 2026, his latest lead release was “Voices in My Head” featuring Kyran Taylor, released on 18 July 2026. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes The South African lock's path through the Sharks, Sale and Lions, and tributes after his death. . Social Service Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday Ramaphosa lifts the police chief's suspension, with Masemola due back on 19 October 2026. . Social Service Joburg Power Outage: City Power Withdraws Restoration Target Another explosion at Central Substation delays power in Marshalltown and the Johannesburg CBD. . Social Service SASSA November 2026 Payment Dates Changed: New Calendar Explained November grants start on 30 October. Check the new dates, review payments and election changes. . Tags South Africa South Africa Blaq Major Blaq Major

DRC launches a $9 million Congo River health initiative with floating labs, port surveillance and early-warning systems along the Kisangani–Kinshasa corridor. The government-led “Fleuve Congo Sans Ebola” initiative will strengthen health surveillance, early-warning systems and emergency-response capacity along the strategic Kisangani–Kinshasa corridor. KINSHASA, August 21, 2026 — The Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has launched a major public-health initiative designed to protect communities, travellers and commercial activity along the Congo River from the spread of Ebola and other epidemic-prone diseases. Known as “Fleuve Congo Sans Ebola,” or “Congo River Without Ebola,” the initiative establishes an emergency health-protection corridor between Kisangani and Kinshasa. According to the World Health Organization , the programme is supported by $9 million in catalytic United Nations funding mobilized through OCHA funding mechanisms. Its first intensive phase will run for three months and focus on deploying priority surveillance, prevention and response measures along the river. Floating Laboratories and Stronger Port Surveillance The initiative will strengthen health monitoring at ports, entry points and major river-transport locations. It also provides for integrated early-warning networks capable of detecting, reporting and responding rapidly to suspected health threats. One of the programme’s most innovative components is the deployment of mobile floating laboratories . These units are designed to support diagnostic work directly along the Congo River, helping response teams reach communities connected primarily through waterways. Radio Okapi reported that Professor Jean-Jacques Muyembe proposed placing medical surveillance services aboard vessels, with trained personnel capable of identifying symptoms and rapidly reporting suspected cases. Additional measures include community alert networks, improved hygiene and prevention systems, and training for boat operators, captains, health workers, port officials and community representatives. Strategic isolation and treatment capacity will also be reinforced in Kisangani, Mbandaka, Kwamouth and Kinshasa . The programme includes logistical arrangements for managing vessels that may require quarantine during a public-health emergency. Continue Reading Full Article HEALTHCARE SYSTEM DRC Launches $9 Million Congo River Ebola Protection Initiative By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Aug 21, 2026 Aug 21, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The government-led “Fleuve Congo Sans Ebola” initiative will strengthen health surveillance, early-warning systems and emergency-response capacity along the strategic Kisangani–Kinshasa corridor. KINSHASA, August 21, 2026 — The Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has launched a major public-health initiative designed to protect communities, travellers and commercial activity along the Congo River from the spread of Ebola and other epidemic-prone diseases. Known as “Fleuve Congo Sans Ebola,” or “Congo River Without Ebola,” the initiative establishes an emergency health-protection corridor between Kisangani and Kinshasa. According to the World Health Organization , the programme is supported by $9 million in catalytic United Nations funding mobilized through OCHA funding mechanisms. Its first intensive phase will run for three months and focus on deploying priority surveillance, prevention and response measures along the river. Floating Laboratories and Stronger Port Surveillance The initiative will strengthen health monitoring at ports, entry points and major river-transport locations. It also provides for integrated early-warning networks capable of detecting, reporting and responding rapidly to suspected health threats. ADVERTISEMENT One of the programme’s most innovative components is the deployment of mobile floating laboratories . These units are designed to support diagnostic work directly along the Congo River, helping response teams reach communities connected primarily through waterways. Radio Okapi reported that Professor Jean-Jacques Muyembe proposed placing medical surveillance services aboard vessels, with trained personnel capable of identifying symptoms and rapidly reporting suspected cases. Additional measures include community alert networks, improved hygiene and prevention systems, and training for boat operators, captains, health workers, port officials and community representatives. Strategic isolation and treatment capacity will also be reinforced in Kisangani, Mbandaka, Kwamouth and Kinshasa . The programme includes logistical arrangements for managing vessels that may require quarantine during a public-health emergency. ADVERTISEMENT A Nationwide, Multisectoral Response “Fleuve Congo Sans Ebola” brings together more than ten government ministries and 14 public institutions , alongside provincial authorities, river-transport operators, civil-society organizations and international partners. Participating organizations include the World Health Organization, UNICEF, the International Organization for Migration, the World Food Programme and the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs . The broad partnership reflects the strategic importance of the Congo River to the country’s mobility, commerce and national development. Thousands of passengers, traders and transport operators use the river every day. Strengthening health protection along this corridor will help safeguard riverside communities while supporting the continued movement of people and essential goods. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Infrastructure Inga: Inside the DRC Hydropower Site With 42,000 MW Potential . Development DRC Launches HYDRO-RDC Portal for 3,349 Hydropower Sites . Transport and Logistics DRC Cargo Processing at Dar es Salaam Port Drops to Two Days . Infrastructure RN1 Project Delivers 43 Km of Asphalt and 800 Jobs in Grand Kasaï . Development DRC Adds $40 Million for Strategic Kananga–Kalamba-Mbuji Road . ADVERTISEMENT Protecting Congo’s Vital National Artery Although the initiative responds directly to the current Ebola threat, it is also designed to establish a durable system for managing future epidemics. Its surveillance and emergency-response infrastructure can support the detection of other public-health threats, including respiratory infections, febrile illnesses and diseases capable of spreading through heavily travelled transport corridors. By combining government leadership, community participation, modern diagnostic technology and international cooperation, the initiative represents an important investment in Congo’s long-term health security. The launch positions the DRC to protect one of its most important economic and human corridors while strengthening the country’s capacity to anticipate, detect and respond to public-health emergencies. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Infrastructure Inga: Inside the DRC Hydropower Site With 42,000 MW Potential From Inga I and II to Inga 3, explore how the Congo River could shape the DRC's energy future. . Development DRC Launches HYDRO-RDC Portal for 3,349 Hydropower Sites DRC launches HYDRO-RDC, mapping 3,349 hydropower sites with 167.25 GW of estimated potential to.. . Transport and Logistics DRC Cargo Processing at Dar es Salaam Port Drops to Two Days Dar es Salaam Port says DRC-bound cargo can now be processed in about two days, as Congolese . Infrastructure RN1 Project Delivers 43 Km of Asphalt and 800 Jobs in Grand Kasaï New figures show progress on the Kamwesha–Mbulungu–Kananga road as the Kaluebo bridge enters service . Tags DRC Infrastructure DRC Infrastructure DR.Congo DR.Congo

Learn how to log in, use Vula UCT, find your courses, join tutorials, and upload/download study materials with this student-friendly guide. 🎓 What Is Vula? Vula is the official online learning system of the University of Cape Town (UCT) . It gives students access to: Course materials Online classes Study and research groups Student societies And many other UCT projects and departments Whether you're attending lectures or joining tutorial groups, Vula is where your digital student life begins. 🛠️ Step-by-Step: How to Log In to Vula UCT Website : https://vula.uct.ac.za Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Jun 27, 2025 May 15, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: 🎓 What Is Vula? Vula is the official online learning system of the University of Cape Town (UCT) . It gives students access to: Course materials Online classes Study and research groups Student societies And many other UCT projects and departments Whether you're attending lectures or joining tutorial groups, Vula is where your digital student life begins. 🛠️ Step-by-Step: How to Log In to Vula UCT Website : https://vula.uct.ac.za ✅ For Registered UCT Students Open vula.uct.ac.za Click "UCT Login" Enter your UCT student number and network password Click "Login" ADVERTISEMENT Don’t know your password? Go to https://password.uct.ac.za to reset it. Or visit your faculty computer lab for help. 👤 For Guest Users Use your guest email and password. If forgotten, click ‘Reset Password’ on the login screen. 🏠 What’s Inside Your Vula "Home" Tab? Once logged in, you’ll land in your Home section. From here, you can: Manage your profile Adjust notifications Store files and links View all announcements Access your enrolled courses ADVERTISEMENT To edit your info: Click ‘Profile’ Then click ‘Edit My Profile’ Update your details and hit Save 📚 Where Are My Courses? Your courses will appear: In the tabs at the top Or under the ‘Sites’ drop-down menu ➡️ Use the star icon to favorite a course. If a course isn’t listed, your lecturer may not have added it yet. ✅ How to Join a Tutorial Group Go to your course site Click ‘Tutorial Groups’ or ‘Section Info’ View groups → click ‘Join’ To switch, click ‘Switch’ next to a different group If full, ask your lecturer or admin to assist Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today How to Register for DDD Webinars Online in South Africa . How to Apply Online for Building Plans and Land Use in Cape Town . Job & Opportunity Apply for New Job: Group Finance Vacancies, City of Johannesburg . Job & Opportunity Apply for Operational Manager Clinics–Johannesburg Health Vacancy . Job & Opportunity New Job Opportunity: Director – Executive Support (POEM) . ADVERTISEMENT 📤 How to Upload or Download Resources Go to the ‘Resources’ tab on the left menu To upload: Click ‘Add’ → choose your file To download: Right-click on the file and Save As 📹 Need Extra Help? Watch video tutorials : tinyurl.com/vula-video-tutorials CILT Helpdesk (Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm): 📞 021-650-5500 📧 cilt-helpdesk@uct.ac.za Quick FAQ Q: What is my Vula password? 📩 It was sent in your UCT admission letter. Q: Can I use a Gmail or Yahoo email for Vula? ✅ Yes, update it in your Profile section. Q: My course doesn’t appear! 👉 Ask your lecturer if they’re using Vula for that course. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles How to Register for DDD Webinars Online in South Africa Learn how to register for DDD webinars online in South Africa. Step-by-step e-service guide . How to Apply Online for Building Plans and Land Use in Cape Town Learn how to register and apply for building plans on Cape Town's e-Service . Job & Opportunity Apply for New Job: Group Finance Vacancies, City of Johannesburg Explore new Group Finance vacancies at the City of Johannesburg. Apply online . Job & Opportunity Apply for Operational Manager Clinics–Johannesburg Health Vacancy New Job Opportunity: Operational Manager – Clinics (Health Department, Johannesburg) . Tags Gov Services Gov Services South Africans Students Portal South Africans Students Portal UCT student portal UCT student portal

Presidents Tshisekedi and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed will oversee the signing of a major DRC–UAE economic partnership in Abu Dhabi. BREAKING NEWS The Democratic Republic of the Congo and the United Arab Emirates are set to sign a landmark Global Economic Cooperation Agreement in Abu Dhabi on February 2, 2026, marking a major shift in Congo’s international economic strategy. Overseen by Presidents Félix Tshisekedi and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, the deal aims to deepen trade, investment, and strategic cooperation, particularly in mining and value addition. The Democratic Republic of the Congo and the United Arab Emirates are set to sign a historic Global Economic Cooperation Agreement on February 2, 2026, marking a major turning point in Congo’s international economic strategy. The signing ceremony will take place at Qasr Al Watan, the UAE’s presidential palace in Abu Dhabi, in the presence of UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and DRC President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo — underscoring the political weight and strategic depth of the agreement. A strategic partnership, not a routine deal According to Congolese officials, the agreement is designed to transform trade flows, investment volumes, and long-term economic cooperation between the two countries. It aligns directly with Kinshasa’s national strategy of diversifying global partnerships beyond traditional allies and positioning the DRC as a central economic actor linking Africa, the Middle East, and global markets. Unlike sector-specific accords, this partnership is framed as comprehensive, covering trade facilitation, investment protection, and strategic cooperation across key sectors. Mining at the core of the discussions The importance of the agreement for Congo’s resource economy is highlighted by the presence of Minister of Mines Louis Watum Kabamba within the high-level presidential delegation. Officials say mining cooperation — particularly investment in extraction, local value addition, and downstream processing — is a central pillar of the talks. This reflects the DRC’s push to move beyond raw exports and secure partnerships that support industrialisation, job creation, and greater national value capture from its vast mineral wealth. Continue Reading Full Article ECONOMIC POLICIES DRC–UAE to Sign Landmark Global Economic Partnership in Abu Dhabi By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Feb 2, 2026 May 15, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: BREAKING NEWS The Democratic Republic of the Congo and the United Arab Emirates are set to sign a landmark Global Economic Cooperation Agreement in Abu Dhabi on February 2, 2026, marking a major shift in Congo’s international economic strategy. Overseen by Presidents Félix Tshisekedi and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, the deal aims to deepen trade, investment, and strategic cooperation, particularly in mining and value addition. The Democratic Republic of the Congo and the United Arab Emirates are set to sign a historic Global Economic Cooperation Agreement on February 2, 2026, marking a major turning point in Congo’s international economic strategy. The signing ceremony will take place at Qasr Al Watan, the UAE’s presidential palace in Abu Dhabi, in the presence of UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and DRC President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo — underscoring the political weight and strategic depth of the agreement. A strategic partnership, not a routine deal According to Congolese officials, the agreement is designed to transform trade flows, investment volumes, and long-term economic cooperation between the two countries. It aligns directly with Kinshasa’s national strategy of diversifying global partnerships beyond traditional allies and positioning the DRC as a central economic actor linking Africa, the Middle East, and global markets. ADVERTISEMENT Unlike sector-specific accords, this partnership is framed as comprehensive, covering trade facilitation, investment protection, and strategic cooperation across key sectors. Mining at the core of the discussions The importance of the agreement for Congo’s resource economy is highlighted by the presence of Minister of Mines Louis Watum Kabamba within the high-level presidential delegation. Officials say mining cooperation — particularly investment in extraction, local value addition, and downstream processing — is a central pillar of the talks. This reflects the DRC’s push to move beyond raw exports and secure partnerships that support industrialisation, job creation, and greater national value capture from its vast mineral wealth. ADVERTISEMENT Why this matters now The timing of the agreement is significant. Congo is actively repositioning itself on the global stage as: a critical supplier of strategic minerals, a destination for large-scale, responsible investment, and a state seeking balanced, sovereign partnerships rather than dependency-based arrangements. For the UAE, the partnership strengthens its economic footprint in Central Africa and secures access to long-term opportunities in minerals, infrastructure, and logistics — sectors central to its global investment strategy. A signal to global markets By elevating the signing to a head-of-state ceremony, both governments are sending a clear signal: this is not symbolic diplomacy, but a structural economic alignment. For investors and international partners, the agreement reinforces Congo’s trajectory toward diversified alliances and proactive economic diplomacy. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Accident News Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Social Service Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Education Nigeria Polytechnic Degree Bill: Who Qualifies and What Happens Next? . Biography Gamal Nkrumah Biography: Journalism, Family and Legacy . Social Media Trends Uganda Charcoal Ban Explained: Parliament Pauses Enforcement . ADVERTISEMENT Further details of the agreement’s scope and implementation mechanisms are expected to be released following the signing ceremony. Abu Dhabi | February 2, 2026 Global Economic Cooperation | Strategic Investment | Mining & Value Addition ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Accident News Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured Edo police report eight burn injuries as conflicting accounts leave the final death toll unresolved. . Social Service Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday Ramaphosa lifts the police chief's suspension, with Masemola due back on 19 October 2026. . Education Nigeria Polytechnic Degree Bill: Who Qualifies and What Happens Next? The Senate has backed B.Tech degrees, but legal approval and programme accreditation still matter. . Biography Gamal Nkrumah Biography: Journalism, Family and Legacy The Ghanaian journalist built a career in Cairo while carrying a historic family name. . Tags Breaking News Breaking News DR.Congo DR.Congo Felix Tshisekedi Felix Tshisekedi

Spot 10 rare bird species found only in DR Congo, with travel tips, local insights, and verified 2025 social media sightings. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is a birder’s paradise, boasting around 1,185 recorded bird species more than any other African country . Among these are about **21 species found nowhere else on Earth. From a shy rainforest peafowl to an owl so elusive it’s practically a legend, here are 10 endemic birds you’ll only find in the wilds of DR Congo. Pack your binoculars and your sense of adventure! 1. Congo Peafowl: DRC’s Shy National Bird Meet the Congo Peafowl (Afropavo congensis) , known locally as “ mbulu ” . Unlike its flamboyant Asian cousins, this peacock is a bit more modest the males flash bronze-green and deep blue plumage, but you won’t catch them fanning giant tails. They skulk in the undergrowth of central Congolese rainforests , monogamous homebodies rarely seen in large groups. Discovered in the 1930s (allegedly from a single feather in a hunter’s cap), the Congo Peafowl has become a national symbol of DRC. It even holds the title of DRC’s national bird , though spotting one in the dense jungle is a serious challenge. Birders consider it a holy grail; even camera traps get only rare cameos. If you’re determined to glimpse a Congo Peafowl in the wild, head to Salonga National Park or the remote Lomako-Yokokora Forest in the Congo Basin the latter holds the highest recorded concentration of these peafowl . Realistically, sightings are so scarce that many nature enthusiasts settle for learning about them through conservation programs. Entry into Salonga or Lomako requires expedition-style prep ; park guides cost around $20/day (~44,000 CDF) and you’ll need special permits and a boat to access Lomako’s flooded forests. But for the bragging rights of seeing the only African peacock , it’s worth the trek . 2. Itombwe Owl The Legendary “Ghost” Owl of Congo The Itombwe Owl ( Tyto prigoginei ), also called the Congo Bay-Owl, is so elusive it borders on mythical. Endemic to the Itombwe Mountains of eastern DRC, this diminutive chestnut-colored owl went unseen by scientists for decades in fact, the last confirmed sighting was in 1996 . Continue Reading Full Article TRAVEL GUIDE 10 Endemic Birds You Can Only Spot in DR Congo By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Nov 17, 2025 May 15, 2026 21 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is a birder’s paradise, boasting around 1,185 recorded bird species more than any other African country . Among these are about **21 species found nowhere else on Earth. From a shy rainforest peafowl to an owl so elusive it’s practically a legend, here are 10 endemic birds you’ll only find in the wilds of DR Congo. Pack your binoculars and your sense of adventure! 1. Congo Peafowl: DRC’s Shy National Bird Meet the Congo Peafowl (Afropavo congensis) , known locally as “ mbulu ” . Unlike its flamboyant Asian cousins, this peacock is a bit more modest the males flash bronze-green and deep blue plumage, but you won’t catch them fanning giant tails. They skulk in the undergrowth of central Congolese rainforests , monogamous homebodies rarely seen in large groups. Discovered in the 1930s (allegedly from a single feather in a hunter’s cap), the Congo Peafowl has become a national symbol of DRC. It even holds the title of DRC’s national bird , though spotting one in the dense jungle is a serious challenge. Birders consider it a holy grail; even camera traps get only rare cameos. If you’re determined to glimpse a Congo Peafowl in the wild, head to Salonga National Park or the remote Lomako-Yokokora Forest in the Congo Basin the latter holds the highest recorded concentration of these peafowl . Realistically, sightings are so scarce that many nature enthusiasts settle for learning about them through conservation programs. Entry into Salonga or Lomako requires expedition-style prep ; park guides cost around $20/day (~44,000 CDF) and you’ll need special permits and a boat to access Lomako’s flooded forests. But for the bragging rights of seeing the only African peacock , it’s worth the trek . 2. Itombwe Owl The Legendary “Ghost” Owl of Congo The elusive Itombwe Owl peers quietly through the foliage rarely seen, often heard in Congo’s montane forests. The Itombwe Owl ( Tyto prigoginei ), also called the Congo Bay-Owl, is so elusive it borders on mythical. Endemic to the Itombwe Mountains of eastern DRC, this diminutive chestnut-colored owl went unseen by scientists for decades in fact, the last confirmed sighting was in 1996 . With only two individuals ever documented (one in 1951 and one netted and released in 1996), the Itombwe Owl has earned a reputation as a “ghost”. Birders around the world speak its name in hushed, reverent tones; finding it would be like discovering Bigfoot with feathers. It haunts the montane bamboo forests and high-altitude grasslands of Itombwe Nature Reserve, where its mournful whistle calls might be heard on moonless nights if you’re very, very lucky . Visiting Itombwe is an adventure in itself. This newly protected reserve is off the beaten track – think no roads, no lodges, just dense forests and local villages. You’ll need to arrange a custom trek with local guides (budget at least $80 per day (~176,000 CDF) for guides/porters). The payoff? A chance to stand in the owl’s habitat under starry alpine skies. While the Itombwe Owl itself will likely remain unseen, you can take comfort in knowing you’re walking the same ridges as one of the world’s rarest birds. The global birding community certainly hasn’t given up hope in 2025, enthusiasts ran fundraisers to finance new expeditions to find this owl (yes, they’re that obsessed) see it on Instagram . Even if you don’t spot the “ghost owl,” you’ll experience one of Africa’s most biodiverse mountains and maybe hear an otherworldly hoot in the dark. 3. Schouteden’s Swift: A High-Speed Mystery in the Itombwe Skies A swift dart in the sky Schouteden’s Swift races through the Itombwe skies with unmatched agility. High above the misty forests of Itombwe, Schouteden’s Swift ( Schoutedenapus schoutedeni ) slices through the air at breakneck speeds. This soot-brown swift is found only in DR Congo , zipping over the Albertine Rift highlands . It’s named after a Belgian zoologist, but local birders mostly know it as “that darn mystery swift” . Why? Because it’s devilishly hard to spot or identify these birds spend their lives on the wing, often disappearing into clouds. For years, some feared Schouteden’s Swift might be as “lost” as the Itombwe owl. ADVERTISEMENT But good news: Itombwe’s recent conservation surveys have recorded them again . In fact, during a 2023 expedition in Itombwe (the same one that famously snapped the first-ever photo of the helmetshrike), researchers noted swifts screeching overhead at dusk . It seems the swift wasn’t about to pose for a portrait typical but at least we know it’s still on the wing. To look for Schouteden’s Swift, you’ll need to camp out in Itombwe or nearby montane forests. By day, enjoy the chorus of colorful Albertine Rift birds; by evening, keep your eyes glued to the pink sky as swifts emerge to feed on insects. You might distinguish Schouteden’s from more common swifts by its slightly larger size and distinctive call (a sharp tseeu-tseeu ). There’s no tour that guarantees this sighting this is pure DIY adventure . Consider coordinating with conservation teams working in Itombwe; they sometimes allow keen birders to tag along. While you’re unlikely to get an Instagram-worthy photo (these guys are fast ), just seeing one dart past is a thrill. Conservationists celebrated the swift’s continued presence in Itombwe a sign that protecting the reserve is paying off . 4. Prigogine’s Greenbul: The Lendu Plateau Songster Resting in the Lendu Plateau canopy, Prigogine’s Greenbul adds its soft song to the Congolese dawn. Drab, elusive, but utterly unique Prigogine’s Greenbul ( Chlorocichla prigoginei ) is a little olive-green bird found only on the Lendu Plateau in northeastern DRC . It’s named after Alexandre Prigogine, a prolific ornithologist who first documented many Congo endemics. This greenbul’s claim to fame isn’t its looks (it’s often described as “unremarkable” rude!). Instead, it’s the location : the Lendu Plateau west of Lake Albert, a remote highland area carpeted in montane forest and bamboo. Here, at around 2,000 meters elevation, Prigogine’s Greenbuls flit about in the understory, giving harsh chack-chack calls. They often join mixed flocks with other songbirds, so picking one out is tricky. Think of it as an Easter egg hunt where the eggs are constantly moving and camouflaged. Birders who venture to Lendu Plateau are usually on a mission to find this bird (and its neighbor, the Bedford’s Flycatcher). There’s no national park infrastructure you’ll be hiring local guides in Ituri province and hiking into community forests. A guide/translator might run about $50-60 a day (~110,000–132,000 CDF) , and it’s polite to bring gifts or pay village fees for access. The experience is rustic: homestays or tents, evening conversations by the fire (likely about that day’s bird tally), and dawn patrols to catch the greenbul’s dawn chorus. Don’t expect this wallflower of a bird to be splashed across your social media sightings are few and far between, and frankly, Prigogine’s Greenbul has zero interest in fame . (When a group of international birders finally heard its call one misty morning, they practically did a happy dance though you won’t find that on Instagram!) Your best bet is to listen for its distinctive call and be ready with binoculars when something darts between the vines. It’s a true birder’s bird: subtle and satisfying for those in the know . 5. Bedford’s Paradise Flycatcher: A Jewel of the Ituri Forest A burst of cinnamon and blue Bedford’s Paradise Flycatcher balances beauty and stealth in the Ituri Forest. With a flash of steel-blue and a streamer-like tail , Bedford’s Paradise Flycatcher ( Terpsiphone bedfordi ) brings a dash of glam to Congo’s forests. This striking flycatcher sports a glossy blue-black head and elegant long tail feathers trailing behind imagine a miniature bird-of-paradise doing cosplay as a monarch flycatcher. Bedford’s is endemic to eastern DRC , mainly in the Ituri region and the west side of the Albertine Rift . In fact, it flits through the same Lendu Plateau forests as Prigogine’s Greenbul and also inhabits dense lowland forests west of the Itombwe and Kahuzi ranges . Despite its royal appearance (it’s literally named after the Duke of Bedford), this bird can be surprisingly furtive preferring shady understories where it hawks insects in mid-air acrobatic twists. Catching a glimpse of its 18 cm form (tail included) feels like spotting a flying ribbon in the gloom. To see Bedford’s Paradise Flycatcher, plan a birding foray in Ituri (around Epulu or the Okapi Reserve’s fringes) or in transitional montane forests of South Kivu. ADVERTISEMENT The Lendu Plateau is a known hotspot local guides there are proud to point out the “oiseau avec longue queue” when they spot one. Patience is key: listen for its sharp tsip-tsip call and watch for that tail flicker among the vines. A good local guide (~ $50/day, ~110,000 CDF as mentioned) will often know a favored territory of a breeding pair. Early morning or late afternoon light filtering through the canopy gives you the best chance to see its glossy plumage catch the sun. This species isn’t globally famous (no Twitter trending topics here), but conservation social media has given it some love. One nature post even introduced Bedford’s alongside the Congo Peafowl as a “winged wonder” of DRC clearly, it has fans in the bird world see it on Instagram . When you finally spot that ribbon-like tail darting after a moth, you’ll understand why Bedford’s Flycatcher is a must-see endemic it’s like finding a secret jewel in DRC’s crown. 6. Rockefeller’s Sunbird: Rainbow of the Rwenzori A living jewel of the Rwenzori: Rockefeller’s Sunbird glows with iridescent hues in the alpine mist. Tiny, dazzling, and exclusive to DRC’s hills Rockefeller’s Sunbird ( Cinnyris rockefelleri ) is the * iridescent gem of the Congo . The males of this species are a sight to behold: an array of shimmering emerald, gold, and scarlet feathers, with a long curved bill perfect for sipping nectar. Basically, imagine a hummingbird that raided a jewelry box. Rockefeller’s Sunbird flits around the Albertine Rift montane forests especially in eastern Congo’s highlands like the Itombwe Massif and Kabobo Mountains . It’s named after American philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr., who funded an expedition that discovered it. (Yes, even billionaires couldn’t resist Congo’s bird bounty.) Spotting this sunbird is no easy feat. You’ll need to trek into mountain forest clearings above 1,500m where flowering shrubs attract these nectar-feeders. They’ve been recorded in the Itombwe Mountains (yet another reason to go there) and sometimes on the fringes of Virunga and Kahuzi-Biega parks. Your best strategy is to find a tree in bloom and patiently stake it out males will often return to favorite flowers, showing off their glossy colors in the sunlight. Given ongoing conflict and limited tourism infrastructure, birders often coordinate with research teams or visit adjacent countries’ parks. (Uganda’s Rwenzori Mountains touch the sunbird’s range, but sightings on that side are extremely rare this is a DRC special ). The bird is near-threatened its bamboo and forest habitat is being cleared for agriculture , which worries conservationists. In fact, a 2024 report noted locals were burning bamboo stands that house Rockefeller’s Sunbird a reminder that not all treasure glitters forever. For now, if you manage to find this rainbow-colored sprite, consider yourself among a lucky few. It’s such a coveted sighting that hardcore birders might buy you a round at camp just to hear the tale. And while you probably won’t find many Instagram selfies with Rockefeller’s Sunbird (it’s way too fast for that), capturing a blurry photo of one is basically a Congolese birding merit badge. Keep your camera ready and your hopes high this living jewel is out there, dancing among the misty mountain flowers. 7. Lake Lufira Weaver: Masked Weaver of the Swamps Perched near Lufira’s wetlands, this bright weaver’s masked gaze keeps a careful watch on its reed-woven home. Down in the southeastern savannas of DRC, in swamps and wetlands fringed by papyrus, lives the Lake Lufira Weaver ( Ploceus ruweti ). This little bird might not have a glamorous name, but it sports a chic look think bright yellow plumage with a black “bandit” mask on its face . Endemic to the Lufira Basin (mainly around Lake Lufira and marshes of Upemba National Park ), it’s also called the Lufira Masked Weaver for obvious reasons. These weavers build intricate nests woven from grasses, often hanging over water to thwart predators. In breeding season, the males gather in colonies and turn into tiny construction workers, each feverishly weaving and fluttering to impress the ladies. The air fills with their buzzy, wheezing song ending in a rapid “tat-tat” sound not exactly melodic, but certainly enthusiastic! For birders, a trip to find the Lake Lufira Weaver means venturing into one of DRC’s most off-the-grid parks. Upemba National Park , established in 1939, is a vast wilderness of lakes, rivers, and wetlands stunning but historically neglected. The good news: efforts are underway to revitalize Upemba, and wildlife is bouncing back. To get there, you likely start from Lubumbashi and endure a day’s drive on rough roads. Park entrance fees are modest (around $15, ~33,000 CDF) , and you can camp or stay at a basic research station. Hire a park ranger or local scout who knows the wetlands (≈ $20/day) to guide you to weaver colonies. Early morning or late afternoon is best, when the birds are actively bobbing among the reeds. You might approach by canoe poling quietly through mirror-calm channels as fish eagles soar overhead. Suddenly, a splash of yellow erupts from the reeds: got ‘em! Watching these masked Romeos busily weave nests is pure joy for any nature lover. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Visit DR Congo Maï-Ndombe River: Discover a Hidden Natural Treasure Near Kinshasa . Entertainment Papa Wemba: The Enduring Voice of Congo and His Lasting Legacy . Visit DR Congo Lake Ma Vallée: Kinshasa's Historic Nature Escape . Visit DR Congo Zongo Falls: A Complete Travel Guide to Kongo Central’s Natural Escape . Visit DR Congo Limete Interchange: The Story Behind Kinshasa's Iconic Tower . ADVERTISEMENT Upemba’s conservation team is proud of their feathered residents and occasionally shares updates on the park’s recovery see it on Instagram for a peek into this corner of Congo’s wild. Between the rustic adventure, the backdrop of hippos snorting in nearby lakes, and the thrill of finding a true DRC endemic , visiting the Lake Lufira Weaver’s realm is a highlight for intrepid birders. 8. Grauer’s Cuckooshrike: The Phantom of the Forest Canopy Not all endemic birds in DRC are showy – Grauer’s Cuckooshrike ( Ceblepyris graueri ) is a case in point. This slate-gray, medium-sized songbird is a master of blending in. Named after zoologist Rudolf Grauer, it dwells in the montane forests of eastern DRC , particularly west of Lake Edward in the lush forests bordering the Rwenzori Mountains . (Some reports suggest it might creep over the border into Uganda, but by and large it’s a Congolese homebody .) Grauer’s Cuckooshrike sticks to the canopy, often in small family groups quietly foraging for insects and berries. It’s the kind of bird that even veteran birdwatchers might miss unless they’re specifically looking for it. No bright colors, no loud calls just a soft presence in the treetops. Think of it as the introverted cousin at the avian party. Tracking down this “phantom” requires heading into the high-elevation forests of places like Virunga National Park (northern sector) or the forests of Ituri and North Kivu . One noted locality is the forests west of Lake Edward essentially the Congolese side of the Rwenzori foothills. Due to security concerns, independent travel here is tricky; it’s best done as part of a research team or with heavy logistics. If you manage to arrange it, you’ll be hiking steep trails under towering trees draped in lichens. Keep your eyes up and binoculars ready a movement in the canopy could be a monkey, a turaco, or with luck, a pair of Grauer’s Cuckooshrikes silently flitting from branch to branch. Birding guides will tell you to listen for a very faint, scratchy song, but frankly in the buzz of a rainforest, it’s tough to discern. 9. Kabobo Apalis: Mountain Microbird Tiny yet tenacious, the Kabobo Apalis flits between mountain thickets in Congo’s misty Kabobo Massif. High on the isolated Kabobo Plateau by Lake Tanganyika lives a tiny warbler that few have ever seen: the Kabobo Apalis . Endemic to DRC’s Mount Kabobo area, this little grey-and-white bird was only discovered in the 1950s and remains something of a mystery. At 11 cm small , the apalis flits about in montane thickets, quietly gleaning insects from leaves. It’s not flashy think a modest grey back, pale belly, and maybe a dash of rufous on the face. But what it lacks in looks it makes up in exclusivity: no other country can claim it . Even within DRC, it’s confined to the Misotshi-Kabogo highlands (recently designated a reserve). This region was completely off-limits for decades due to civil unrest, meaning Kabobo Apalis lived its life with zero human fanfare just the way it likes it. Birders who’ve gone after it joke that it’s the “ghost of Kabobo” , always heard as a whispery trill but seldom seen clearly. Fun fact: the local Mbote people didn’t have a name for it until researchers explained their mission; then they coined one meaning “the little leaf-dweller” . 10. Chapin’s Babbler: Mountain Chorus Line Chapin’s Babbler breaks morning silence with its signature chatter echoing across highland groves. Named after James Chapin (the famed American ornithologist who also discovered the Congo Peafowl), Chapin’s Mountain Babbler is an Albertine Rift endemic that sings from the treetops of DRC and nowhere else. These babblers (also known simply as Chapin’s Babbler ) are about 18 cm long, with soft brownish-grey plumage and a bit of a scruffy crest. They aren’t brightly colored they prefer to keep a low profile as they scurry through montane forest canopies. What gives them away is their voice : Chapin’s Babblers live in social groups and belt out rollicking choruses of chatters and whistles, a true babbler cacophony. Imagine a barbershop quartet of birds, each member riffing off the other that’s a family of Chapin’s Babblers greeting a new day. They dwell in DRC’s northeastern highlands , particularly the high forests of Mount Hoyo and the Lendu Plateau near Lake Albert . Interestingly, they share these habitats with at least two other endemics on our list (Prigogine’s Greenbul and Bedford’s Flycatcher), almost as if Chapin planted a secret trove of birds up there for future explorers. Despite living near conflict zones historically, Chapin’s Babbler has persisted, and birders who reach its haunts often report the species as fairly confiding curious about visitors and not too shy. Perhaps all that singing boosts their confidence? ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Visit DR Congo Maï-Ndombe River: Discover a Hidden Natural Treasure Near Kinshasa Explore the river's geography, dark waters, local communities and potential for responsible tourism . Entertainment Papa Wemba: The Enduring Voice of Congo and His Lasting Legacy From rumba and SAPE to La Dernière Symphonie, explore Papa Wemba's legacy ten years after his death. . Visit DR Congo Lake Ma Vallée: Kinshasa's Historic Nature Escape Discover the history, activities and environmental importance of this green retreat in Mont-Ngafula . Visit DR Congo Zongo Falls: A Complete Travel Guide to Kongo Central’s Natural Escape Plan a trip to Zongo Falls with routes, accommodation, safety tips and a suggested two-day itinerary . Tags Visit Congo Visit Congo Travel Blog Travel Blog DR.Congo DR.Congo DR Congo's Tourism DR Congo's Tourism Travel & Tourism Travel & Tourism Travel Blog Travel Blog Travel Africa Travel Africa

DRC shifts Cabinet meetings to twice a month and plans stronger monitoring of government decisions. The Democratic Republic of Congo will now hold Cabinet meetings twice a month as President Félix Tshisekedi moves to give ministers more time to implement decisions already taken, according to a local report . The change was announced during the 91st ordinary meeting of the Council of Ministers. Since Tshisekedi came to power, Cabinet meetings had generally been held every week, except on public holidays, as part of regular monitoring of government files and the implementation of the Government Action Programme. Under the new arrangement, government members are expected to spend more time executing decisions, responding to public concerns, and improving the effectiveness of state action across the country. Tshisekedi also called on ministers to show greater diligence, responsibility, and efficiency in carrying out their duties. A strengthened monitoring and evaluation mechanism is also being introduced to assess progress across ministries and measure results in different sectors. The move signals a shift from frequent deliberation toward closer tracking of delivery and implementation. The Cabinet meeting also addressed international human rights missions in the DRC. Prime Minister Judith Suminwa welcomed the ongoing work of the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights, whose Resolution 643 condemns serious and massive human rights violations and international crimes in the country. The government also discussed the UN-backed inquiry into abuses in eastern Congo. The UN Human Rights Council commission of inquiry is mandated to investigate alleged violations and abuses in North Kivu and South Kivu linked to the latest escalation of hostilities. Suminwa said experts from the commission are expected in Kinshasa on June 7, 2026, before continuing their work in Goma after a week in the capital. She instructed the ministers responsible for human rights and interior affairs to ensure a secure environment and smooth coordination with national authorities. She also asked the budget and finance ministers to make the necessary operational resources available for the teams supporting the mission. Continue Reading Full Article GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCEMENTS DRC Plans New System to Track Government Delivery By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Jun 1, 2026 Jun 1, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Democratic Republic of Congo will now hold Cabinet meetings twice a month as President Félix Tshisekedi moves to give ministers more time to implement decisions already taken, according to a local report . The change was announced during the 91st ordinary meeting of the Council of Ministers. Since Tshisekedi came to power, Cabinet meetings had generally been held every week, except on public holidays, as part of regular monitoring of government files and the implementation of the Government Action Programme. Under the new arrangement, government members are expected to spend more time executing decisions, responding to public concerns, and improving the effectiveness of state action across the country. Tshisekedi also called on ministers to show greater diligence, responsibility, and efficiency in carrying out their duties. ADVERTISEMENT A strengthened monitoring and evaluation mechanism is also being introduced to assess progress across ministries and measure results in different sectors. The move signals a shift from frequent deliberation toward closer tracking of delivery and implementation. The Cabinet meeting also addressed international human rights missions in the DRC. Prime Minister Judith Suminwa welcomed the ongoing work of the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights, whose Resolution 643 condemns serious and massive human rights violations and international crimes in the country. ADVERTISEMENT The government also discussed the UN-backed inquiry into abuses in eastern Congo. The UN Human Rights Council commission of inquiry is mandated to investigate alleged violations and abuses in North Kivu and South Kivu linked to the latest escalation of hostilities. Suminwa said experts from the commission are expected in Kinshasa on June 7, 2026, before continuing their work in Goma after a week in the capital. She instructed the ministers responsible for human rights and interior affairs to ensure a secure environment and smooth coordination with national authorities. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Economic Policies DRC Creates Deposit Guarantee Fund to Protect Bank Customers . Social Service DRC Moves to Bring More Public Workers Onto the Payroll . Development DRC Plans $440 Million for Rural Water, Electricity and Infrastructure . Opposition Politics Why C64 Plans a July 8 March to Demand Tshisekedi's Resignation . War in Eastern DRC FARDC Says It Is Thwarting M23 Advances Despite Rwandan Drone Support . ADVERTISEMENT She also asked the budget and finance ministers to make the necessary operational resources available for the teams supporting the mission. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Economic Policies DRC Creates Deposit Guarantee Fund to Protect Bank Customers DRC approves FGADEC, a national deposit-guarantee fund designed to protect eligible savings, . Social Service DRC Moves to Bring More Public Workers Onto the Payroll DRC plans to make salary inclusion a 2027 budget priority, aiming to progressively bring eligible . Development DRC Plans $440 Million for Rural Water, Electricity and Infrastructure DRC plans more than $440 million in its 2027 budget for rural water, electricity and basic . Opposition Politics Why C64 Plans a July 8 March to Demand Tshisekedi's Resignation DRC opposition coalition announces nationwide protest over constitutional reform dispute . Tags DRC Politics DRC Politics Africa Africa DR.Congo DR.Congo DR Congo Rising DR Congo Rising DR Congo News DR Congo News

In Cairo, President Tshisekedi accused Rwanda’s Paul Kagame of seeking to split and annex eastern DRC, warning of Kigali’s belligerent and hegemonic agenda. Cairo, Egypt — In a bold and direct accusation, President Félix Tshisekedi has denounced Rwandan President Paul Kagame for harboring territorial ambitions aimed at splitting the Democratic Republic of Congo and annexing its mineral-rich eastern provinces. Speaking to the Congolese diaspora during a stop in Cairo, Egypt, the Head of State did not mince words: “His intentions are belligerent and hegemonic. His objective is to split our country and to occupy, or even annex, the eastern part, which is a land very rich in mineral and agricultural resources.” The statement marks one of Tshisekedi’s clearest public condemnations of Kagame’s alleged expansionist designs and comes amid stalled peace efforts in the eastern region, where Rwandan-backed M23 rebels continue to occupy Congolese territory. Stalled Peace Efforts & Kagame’s Absence President Tshisekedi reviewed the series of peace processes aimed at restoring calm to eastern Congo, including the Nairobi, Luanda, Doha, and Washington initiatives. He lamented the collapse of the Luanda Agreement in December 2024, pointing directly at Kagame’s failure to show up: “We have not admitted defeat,” Tshisekedi insisted. “We succeeded in mobilizing international momentum aimed at sanctioning Rwanda.” A Diplomatic Counter-Offensive The Congolese government has leveraged diplomacy to shift international opinion. Tshisekedi emphasized that: Continue Reading Full Article DRC PEACE EFFORT Tshisekedi Accuses Kagame of Plot to Annex Eastern Congo By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Nov 3, 2025 May 15, 2026 4 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Cairo, Egypt — In a bold and direct accusation, President Félix Tshisekedi has denounced Rwandan President Paul Kagame for harboring territorial ambitions aimed at splitting the Democratic Republic of Congo and annexing its mineral-rich eastern provinces. Speaking to the Congolese diaspora during a stop in Cairo, Egypt, the Head of State did not mince words: “His intentions are belligerent and hegemonic. His objective is to split our country and to occupy, or even annex, the eastern part, which is a land very rich in mineral and agricultural resources.” The statement marks one of Tshisekedi’s clearest public condemnations of Kagame’s alleged expansionist designs and comes amid stalled peace efforts in the eastern region, where Rwandan-backed M23 rebels continue to occupy Congolese territory. Stalled Peace Efforts & Kagame’s Absence President Tshisekedi reviewed the series of peace processes aimed at restoring calm to eastern Congo, including the Nairobi, Luanda, Doha, and Washington initiatives. ADVERTISEMENT He lamented the collapse of the Luanda Agreement in December 2024, pointing directly at Kagame’s failure to show up: “We have not admitted defeat,” Tshisekedi insisted. “We succeeded in mobilizing international momentum aimed at sanctioning Rwanda.” A Diplomatic Counter-Offensive The Congolese government has leveraged diplomacy to shift international opinion. Tshisekedi emphasized that: The Doha process, which produced a declaration of principles with M23, is set to resume this week. ADVERTISEMENT The Washington process, under U.S. mediation, will soon summon both leaders, Kagame and Tshisekedi, for endorsement of a final agreement before President Donald Trump. This diplomatic sequencing is seen as a calculated move by Kinshasa to maintain moral high ground and show its commitment to peace, while pressuring Kigali to comply with previous commitments. Rwanda’s Broken Promises In June, DRC and Rwanda signed a peace agreement calling for: Withdrawal of Rwandan troops from Congolese soil Neutralization of the FDLR militia Yet, no withdrawal has taken place. The situation on the ground remains tense. The Congolese army and M23 continue to accuse each other of ceasefire violations. Despite these challenges, Tshisekedi reassured the Congolese community that the DRC remains firm: Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Economic Policies DRC Creates Deposit Guarantee Fund to Protect Bank Customers . Social Service DRC Moves to Bring More Public Workers Onto the Payroll . Development DRC Plans $440 Million for Rural Water, Electricity and Infrastructure . Opposition Politics Why C64 Plans a July 8 March to Demand Tshisekedi's Resignation . War in Eastern DRC FARDC Says It Is Thwarting M23 Advances Despite Rwandan Drone Support . ADVERTISEMENT “We are not the aggressors. We are defending our land. And we will not let any part of our territory be annexed, not by Kagame, not by anyone.” Kagame’s Agenda: Exposed With this speech, Tshisekedi sent a clear message to the international community: Rwanda is not just an aggressor, it is a regime with colonial ambitions. Kagame’s repeated military support for M23 and continued violations of Congolese sovereignty, combined with his refusal to attend key peace summits, confirm what Congolese leadership has long warned: This is not just war; this is a plan to carve out Congolese territory ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Economic Policies DRC Creates Deposit Guarantee Fund to Protect Bank Customers DRC approves FGADEC, a national deposit-guarantee fund designed to protect eligible savings, . Social Service DRC Moves to Bring More Public Workers Onto the Payroll DRC plans to make salary inclusion a 2027 budget priority, aiming to progressively bring eligible . Development DRC Plans $440 Million for Rural Water, Electricity and Infrastructure DRC plans more than $440 million in its 2027 budget for rural water, electricity and basic . Opposition Politics Why C64 Plans a July 8 March to Demand Tshisekedi's Resignation DRC opposition coalition announces nationwide protest over constitutional reform dispute . Tags DRC Politics DRC Politics DR.Congo DR.Congo Felix Tshisekedi Felix Tshisekedi

Update SASSA banking details safely. Understand SRD verification, documents for other grants, delayed payments and official support contacts. SOUTH AFRICA — Updated 8 October 2026: SASSA’s 2026 grant booklet tells beneficiaries updating banking details to provide an active personal account in their own name and supporting bank documentation. For Social Relief of Distress applicants, SASSA also requires accurate banking information and a cellphone number registered in the applicant’s name so verification messages reach the right person. Changing bank details and correcting a grant decision are different tasks. Start by identifying your grant and the problem shown on your application before submitting another request. How do you change SASSA banking details safely? SRD beneficiaries should begin through SASSA’s official SRD website and follow its banking and identity-verification instructions. For other grants, ask a SASSA office about the payment-change process and required documents. Use your own account, keep your contact details current and protect your bank PIN. First, Choose the Right Banking Route The government’s published payment-option guidance directs beneficiaries changing their payment option to a SASSA office. It lists an identity document, proof of residence and a bank statement or account-confirmation letter for a change to a personal bank account. This guidance dates from 2019: confirm today’s requirements before travelling. Updating SRD Details: A Practical Checklist SASSA’s guidance on registered cellphone numbers and banking verification explains that an account belonging to someone else will not pass payment verification. It also says verification notifications require the applicant’s attention. Use this sequence: Start at srd.sassa.gov.za , the official SRD address identified by SASSA. Continue Reading Full Article BANKING REGULATIONS SASSA Banking Guide: Change Details and Resolve Grant Payment Problems By Kamau Bahati Entertainment Editor Kamau Bahati Home Comment Oct 8, 2026 Oct 8, 2026 6 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: SOUTH AFRICA — Updated 8 October 2026: SASSA’s 2026 grant booklet tells beneficiaries updating banking details to provide an active personal account in their own name and supporting bank documentation. For Social Relief of Distress applicants, SASSA also requires accurate banking information and a cellphone number registered in the applicant’s name so verification messages reach the right person. Changing bank details and correcting a grant decision are different tasks. Start by identifying your grant and the problem shown on your application before submitting another request. How do you change SASSA banking details safely? SRD beneficiaries should begin through SASSA’s official SRD website and follow its banking and identity-verification instructions. For other grants, ask a SASSA office about the payment-change process and required documents. Use your own account, keep your contact details current and protect your bank PIN. First, Choose the Right Banking Route Your situation Where to start What to check SRD application or payment details Official SRD website: srd.sassa.gov.za Registered contact number and the banking instructions displayed Another social grant Nearest SASSA office Payment-change documents and when the change will take effect Bank card declined or PIN problem Your bank or Postbank Card and account access, rather than submitting a new grant application Grant review notification SASSA office or designated service centre The documents and response requested in the notice The government’s published payment-option guidance directs beneficiaries changing their payment option to a SASSA office. It lists an identity document, proof of residence and a bank statement or account-confirmation letter for a change to a personal bank account. This guidance dates from 2019: confirm today’s requirements before travelling. Updating SRD Details: A Practical Checklist SASSA’s guidance on registered cellphone numbers and banking verification explains that an account belonging to someone else will not pass payment verification. It also says verification notifications require the applicant’s attention. ADVERTISEMENT Use this sequence: Start at srd.sassa.gov.za , the official SRD address identified by SASSA. Select the route matching your identification category and follow the prompts. Find the banking or payment-details option. Follow the identity checks displayed by the official service. Use an account belonging to you. Check the account number against your bank’s own document before submitting it. Attend to verification messages sent to your registered cellphone. Keep the confirmation or reference supplied, then check your application again for the next required action. Do not substitute a relative’s account because your own account is closed or inaccessible. Resolve the account problem with the bank and ask SASSA which payment option is available to you. For related help, see XTRAfrica’s SRD status-check guide . Documents for Other Grant Banking Changes The 2026 “You and Your Grant” booklet , published through the Department of Social Development, says the account must support electronic fund transfers. Its banking-update instructions call for a recent three-month bank statement showing the applicant’s name and account number. Prepare your identity document, banking paperwork and proof of residence, then ask the office whether an account-confirmation letter or additional documents are needed for your particular grant. Check what must be signed and retain evidence of submission. Ask when the new payment instruction will apply. Handing in documents does not, by itself, prove that money has been transferred to the new account. ADVERTISEMENT If Payment Is Still Missing Separate these three questions: Has SASSA approved the grant or the relevant payment? Has the banking information passed verification? Has the bank received the transfer? SASSA’s published guidance says verified banking information allows payment through the next pay run. That is not a promise that every beneficiary receives money within the same number of hours after an update. If the application requests an identity check, complete that process rather than repeatedly changing accounts. SASSA’s identity-verification guidance directs affected beneficiaries to its website or local offices for assistance. SASSA has also warned that repeated banking and contact changes can delay payments . Correct genuine errors, but do not keep submitting different details simply to try to speed up a payment. XTRAfrica’s payment and status explainer provides related background. Your individual official result should determine your next step. Keep Contact Details Current and Protect Your PIN A banking update will not resolve every interruption. In its 17 February 2026 grant-review notice , SASSA urged beneficiaries to respond to review messages and keep their contact information updated. Reviews take place at designated offices or service centres. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Biography Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Social Service Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Joburg Power Outage: City Power Withdraws Restoration Target . Social Service SASSA November 2026 Payment Dates Changed: New Calendar Explained . Power Outages Johannesburg Power Outage: Fourth Substation Fire Disrupts Inner City . ADVERTISEMENT Never give another person your bank-card PIN. Postbank’s fraud warning describes people impersonating officials and asking beneficiaries to surrender cards and PINs under the pretence of fixing payment problems. A uniform or branded vehicle is not enough to establish someone’s identity. If a message or caller seems suspicious, contact the agency or bank through its official support channel before acting. Do not let an unknown person take control of your banking or grant application. Official Help and Questions to Ask Call SASSA on 0800 60 10 11 during weekday working hours for grant and verification enquiries. Postbank customers can call 0800 53 54 55 about card or PIN issues. Explain your grant type, the message shown, when you submitted the banking change and whether the bank account remains active. Ask which step is outstanding and request a reference number where available. If the online service cannot be reached, use official telephone or office assistance. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes The South African lock's path through the Sharks, Sale and Lions, and tributes after his death. . Social Service Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday Ramaphosa lifts the police chief's suspension, with Masemola due back on 19 October 2026. . Social Service Joburg Power Outage: City Power Withdraws Restoration Target Another explosion at Central Substation delays power in Marshalltown and the Johannesburg CBD. . Social Service SASSA November 2026 Payment Dates Changed: New Calendar Explained November grants start on 30 October. Check the new dates, review payments and election changes. . Tags South Africa South Africa