Uganda proposes New Surrogacy Standards Pioneering Bill to Shape Future of Assisted Reproduction. Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 7, 2024 ​ Member of parliament Sarah Opendi emphasized Uganda's potential to become a global leader in legislating assisted reproduction. Uganda's legislative body has taken a significant step forward by proposing a new bill aimed at refining surrogacy regulations to cater only to those who are unable to conceive naturally due to infertility or health issues. Introduced by Member of Parliament Sarah Opendi, the bill proposes strict eligibility criteria for surrogacy, setting 18 years as the minimum age for surrogate mothers. The legislation also outlines severe consequences for healthcare professionals who breach these regulations, including up to five years of imprisonment for minor infractions and potentially life sentences for more serious offenses such as the unauthorized use of gametes or embryos. The bill mandates comprehensive genetic screening for donors, reinforcing its commitment to the health and safety of all parties involved in the surrogacy process. Titled the Human-Assisted Reproductive Technology Bill, it aims to cover a broad spectrum of assisted reproductive technologies by setting standards for the operation of fertility clinics and the management of sperm, egg, and embryo donations and storage. A pivotal aspect of the proposed bill is its focus on protecting the rights and welfare of children conceived through assisted reproduction techniques. MP Sarah Opendi highlighted the legislation's potential to position Uganda at the forefront of regulated assisted reproduction practices globally, emphasizing the country's dedication to establishing a solid legal framework in this area. The successful passage of this bill would not only enhance Uganda's stance on reproductive health but also serve as a model for comprehensive and considerate regulation of assisted reproductive technologies worldwide, ensuring the protection and well-being of all individuals involved. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

ECOWAS decides about the single currency program. Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 11, 2024 ​ ECOWAS sates representatives pause for a photo after the meeting Abuja, Nigeria : The West African Monetary Zones (WAMZ) initiative for a unified currency across its member states faces significant challenges, pushing the realization timeline further back than initially expected, revealed Olorunsola Olofeso, Director-General of the West African Monetary Institute (WAMI), during the 51st Convergence Council meeting in Abuja. Despite years of efforts towards economic integration, the decline in key convergence indicators - essential benchmarks for the monetary union - underscores the daunting task ahead. The aspiration to enhance economic stability, boost trade, and simplify transactions in the region is hindered by divergent economic policies, inflation rates, and fiscal deficits among the countries. At the recent Abuja meeting, finance ministers, central bank governors, and stakeholders evaluated the progress, or lack thereof, with a performance score of just 29.2% as of June 2023, a drop from 41.7% in the previous year. "All WAMZ Member States failed to meet the four primary convergence criteria," Dr. Olofeso stated, casting doubt on the feasibility of achieving the ECOWAS Single Currency Roadmap by 2027. The Committee of Governors, led by Olayemi Cardoso, has called for updated and reliable data for policy analysis and periodic seminars to address macroeconomic challenges. As the region gears up for the mid-year 2024 statutory meetings, the focus will be on crafting strategies to navigate these economic disparities and work towards the shared goal of a single currency. The path to a unified West African currency is fraught with hurdles, yet the commitment to overcome these challenges remains undeterred, signaling a pivotal moment in the region's quest for economic integration. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Africa's A-List Shines at the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond Jun 5, 2024 ​ African stars are set to light up the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards this year, with several top talents earning nominations. Leading the pack is South African singer Tyla, who has garnered triple nominations for Favorite Viral Song with her hit "Water," Favorite Breakout Artist, and Favorite Global Music Star (Africa). In the category for Favorite African Kids Influencer, South Africa’s Kairo faces strong competition from fellow South Africans Biko's Mana, and Nigeria's Dream Catchers Academy, DJ Wysei, and Boluwatife Balogun. Adding to the excitement, the event will be hosted by beloved characters SpongeBob SquarePants and Patrick Star, as the animated series celebrates its 25th anniversary. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Davido Shares His Favorite Artists to Collaborate With Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Apr 25, 2024 ​ Davido Discusses Favorite Collaborations with Kizz Daniel, Zlatan, and Chris Brown. Credit:gettyimage Nigerian Afrobeat star Davido has recently opened up about his collaborative experiences with other artists in an exclusive interview with Business Untitled. Known offstage as David Adedeji Adeleke, the singer highlighted his productive partnerships with several prominent figures in the music industry. Among his favored collaborators is Kizz Daniel, another celebrated Nigerian artist. The duo has notably produced chart-toppers like "One Ticket" and the recent "Twe Twe" remix, both of which have resonated well with fans, thanks to their compelling lyrics and infectious rhythms. Davido also praised his repeated team-ups with Zlatan, a fellow Nigerian talent. Their collaborations have resulted in popular tracks including "Osanle" and "Money," which have been well-received by audiences. Expanding his collaborative reach beyond the Nigerian music scene, Davido has worked extensively with international music icon Chris Brown. Their joint efforts have led to major hits such as "Blow My Mind" and "Sensational," further establishing Davido’s global influence in the music industry. Throughout the interview, Davido confidently expressed his artistic prowess, referring to himself as “Big Me,” which reflects his significant impact and status within the global music community. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Kagame Doesn't Hate Hutus, Nor Does He Favor Tutsis? Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond Apr 29, 2024 ​ President Paul Kagame shaking hands with Prime Minister Eduard Ngirente: Photo edited by xtrafrica studio The political landscape in Rwanda under President Paul Kagame is often characterized by intricate and strategic use of ethnic tensions between the Hutu and Tutsi communities. Some view this manipulation as a tactic to maintain power rather than an expression of genuine ethnic animosity. Critics argue that Kagame does not harbor personal hatred towards the Hutus or a preference for the Tutsis. Instead, it is suggested that he uses both ethnic groups as pawns in a political game to consolidate his rule. This strategy fosters a climate of fear and division, leading to a scenario where each group views the other with suspicion and hostility. The notion that ethnic hatred is cultivated as a means to an end is evidenced by the treatment of political dissenters, irrespective of their ethnic background. Both Hutu and Tutsi individuals who pose a threat to the regime are reportedly dealt with harshly. This approach underscores the view that the primary concern for the ruling party is not ethnic allegiance but the preservation of its power. Moreover, incidents like the tragic fate of Kizito Mihigo and the ordeal faced by Diane Rwigara highlight a broader strategy of using ethnic tensions as a shield to protect the ruling elite by preventing a unified opposition. These cases are seen as part of a wider narrative where the manipulation of ethnic identity serves as a tool for political survival rather than a reflection of deep-seated ethnic divisions. This calculated deployment of ethnic narratives for political gain suggests a cynical view of power where human lives and community cohesion are secondary to the objectives of the ruling elite. It paints a picture of a leadership that prioritizes its survival over the genuine reconciliation and unity of its people More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Two Utah friends Face Death Penalty in Congo After Failed Coup Attempt Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jun 15, 2024 Marcel Malanga appeared in court in Prison Suits DRC Two residents of West Jordan, Utah, Marcel Malanga and Tyler Thompson, are facing the death penalty in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) after being involved in an attempted coup. Their connection began five years ago at Copper Hills High School. Malanga, the US-born son of Congolese warlord Christian Malanga, persuaded Thompson to join him in what was portrayed as a benign trip to Africa. Christian Malanga, a former DRC army captain, led a failed coup in Kinshasa in May with a small group of paramilitaries. The raid resulted in his death and the arrest of over 50 people, including Marcel, Thompson, and another American, Benjamin Reuben Zalman-Polun. The three appeared in a military court, facing charges punishable by death. The incident has shocked West Jordan residents, where the two young men were well-known. Marcel's mother, Brittney Sawyer, maintains her son was unaware of his father's plans and was unintentionally involved. Friends and family of Thompson are similarly stunned, believing he was on a holiday trip. Reports indicate Marcel had offered friends up to $100,000 to join him in Africa under false pretenses. Some friends refused, but Thompson accepted the invitation. The families are now relying on the US government for assistance, with embassy officials providing consular support and monitoring the situation closely. This incident underscores the complex and dangerous political climate in the DRC, with many questions still unanswered about the extent of Christian Malanga's network and the involvement of other actors. For now, the focus remains on the wellbeing of Marcel Malanga and Tyler Thompson as their fate hangs in the balance. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Binance Collaborates with Nigerian Authorities to Address Executive Detention Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 18, 2024 ​ Binance CEO Richard In a recent development, Binance, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, is actively cooperating with Nigerian authorities to address the detention of its top compliance executive. Tigran Gambaryan, the Head of Financial Crime Compliance at Binance, was detained by Nigerian officials on charges of money laundering involving over $35 million. A Nigerian court has postponed the hearing to May 2, following the initial announcement by Nigeria's anti-corruption agency on April 8. Speaking at the Token2049 cryptocurrency conference in Dubai, Binance CEO Richard Teng emphasized the company's commitment to resolving the issues. "We are working very closely with the Nigerian authorities to try to resolve the matter," Teng stated. Background of the Case The situation unfolded when Gambaryan and another Binance official, Nadeem Anjarwalla, a British-Kenyan and the regional manager for Africa, traveled to Nigeria. This was in response to Nigeria's recent prohibition of several cryptocurrency trading platforms. They were detained upon arrival on February 26 by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Anjarwalla reportedly left Nigeria last month amid these developments. Additionally, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has also filed tax evasion charges against Binance and its executives, with the case scheduled for a court appearance this Friday. Binance's Response and Industry Impact Vishal Sacheendran, Binance’s Head of Regional Markets, commented on the incident from Dubai, describing it as unprecedented. "This was a one-off. It's never happened to us before," said Sacheendran. The ongoing legal challenges in Nigeria highlight the complexities global cryptocurrency firms face as they navigate varying regulatory landscapes. Binance's proactive engagement with Nigerian authorities reflects its strategy to foster compliance and cooperation within regulatory frameworks across its operational territories. Looking Forward As the cryptocurrency market continues to evolve, the outcomes of such regulatory interactions will likely influence the operational strategies of crypto firms worldwide. Binance remains committed to legal compliance and constructive dialogue with regulatory bodies to promote a stable and trustworthy environment for cryptocurrency trading. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

African Countries Could Unlock Billions in Local and Global Trade: An Analysis Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jun 3, 2024 ​ Cars loaded with merchandise travel from Africa to continents around the world, showcasing vibrant and dynamic trade photo by AI Africa's share of global trade remains disproportionately small, hovering around 2%-3%. Countries on the continent trade more with the rest of the world than they do among themselves. To boost growth and reduce poverty, Africa needs to improve its share of trade. Aid for Trade is a development initiative aimed at removing barriers to trade for developing countries. International trade and development economics professor Bedassa Tadesse, who recently co-authored a paper on Aid for Trade, provides insights into how this initiative is addressing Africa's trade challenges. Africa's State of Trade Despite its immense resources and untapped potential, Africa's share of global trade remains small. It is estimated that Africa could annually generate an additional $21.9 billion from exports. This limitation hampers the continent's economic growth and its ability to lift millions out of poverty. Intra-African trade is also low, constituting only about 16% of the continent's total trade volume, compared to 68% in Europe and 59% in Asia. These statistics have serious implications. Enhancing Africa's trade within the region and globally could drive development, create jobs, and reduce poverty. However, several challenges hinder Africa's trade potential. The continent faces infrastructural deficiencies , cumbersome trade regulations, and inadequate logistical support. These barriers increase business costs and deter trade within the continent and with the rest of the world. Aid for Trade seeks to address these issues by providing the necessary support to enhance trade capacity in developing countries. By improving infrastructure, streamlining trade regulations, and bolstering logistical networks, Aid for Trade aims to unlock Africa's trade potential and foster economic growth. In summary, while Africa's trade challenges are significant, initiatives like Aid for Trade offer hope. By addressing infrastructural and regulatory barriers, Africa can increase its share of global trade, stimulate economic development, and improve the livelihoods of millions. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Ademola Lookman Becomes First African to Score Hat-Trick in UEFA Final Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe May 23, 2024 ​ Atalanta winger Ademola Lookman He has etched his name in history by becoming the first African footballer to score a hat-trick in the final of a major UEFA competition. Lookman achieved this milestone during Wednesday’s Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen. In addition to his historic hat-trick, Lookman became the third Nigerian player to score in the final of a major UEFA competition. He follows in the footsteps of Alex Iwobi, who scored in the 2019 Europa League final, and Joe Aribo, who found the net in the 2022 Europa League final. Lookman's impressive performance began early in the match. He netted his first goal in the 10th minute , capitalizing on a low cross from Zappacosta. His second goal came within the first 25 minutes, a beautiful curling shot that found the bottom corner of the net. In the second half, Lookman completed his hat-trick, effectively ending Bayer Leverkusen’s hopes of an unbeaten treble this season. The Super Eagles star's outstanding display not only secured victory for Atalanta but also cemented his place in African football history. His remarkable feat is a testament to his skill and determination, making him a standout player in this year's UEFA competitions. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Why the Us blames Rwanda on the Mugunga displacement camp in Goma Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire May 6, 2024 ​ Displacement Camp in Congo The United States has officially blamed Rwanda and the M23 rebel group for a deadly airstrike that targeted a displacement camp in the Democratic Republic of Congo, resulting in the tragic loss of at least nine lives, including seven children. The attack occurred on Friday at the Mugunga camp in Goma, a city in eastern DR Congo. This accusation intensifies existing tensions, with Rwanda, known to border DR Congo, being frequently accused of supporting M23, a claim it vehemently denies. Rwanda’s government has dismissed the US's allegations as "ridiculous," defending the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) as a professional entity that would not target civilian camps. The US State Department cites evidence indicating the airstrike originated from areas controlled by the RDF and M23. In light of this attack, the US has expressed grave concerns regarding the escalation of military activities by the RDF and M23 in the region and has called for the adherence to international humanitarian law by all involved parties. The conflict in eastern DR Congo has seen various factions, including rebel and government forces, accused of human rights abuses as they contest for control, notably in areas rich in minerals critical for modern technologies like mobile phones and electric vehicles. The recent developments, including the capture of the town of Rubaya by M23 fighters, highlight the ongoing volatility and the complex interplay of local and international interests in DR Congo’s conflict zones. The US continues to urge all states to respect sovereignty and hold responsible any actors involved in human rights abuses within the region. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Algeria's Riyad Mahrez to Sit Out of FIFA Friendly Matches by Personal Request Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Mar 19, 2024 ​ Riyad Mahrez to Miss Algeria's Upcoming Friendlies in FIFA Series. @coupedafriiquedesnations Vladimir Petkovic, the newly appointed head coach of the Algerian national football team, has confirmed that star player Riyad Mahrez has voluntarily opted out of the squad for the forthcoming FIFA Series friendly matches. Citing a lack of readiness and the requisite energy to fulfill his influential role, Mahrez personally reached out to Petkovic to convey his decision. Algeria is on a mission to regain the confidence of its supporters after their unexpected early exit from the African Cup of Nations (AFCON), where they concluded the tournament at the bottom of their group. The national team, colloquially known as the Desert Foxes, is set to participate in a mini-tournament on home soil, featuring a diverse lineup of teams from various football confederations. The lineup for this international foray includes Algeria from the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Bolivia from the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL), Andorra from the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA), and South Africa, also a member of CAF. The Desert Foxes' schedule includes a match against Bolivia on the 22nd of March and another against South Africa on the 26th of March, with both fixtures taking place at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Algiers. In a notable squad change, Islam Slimani, Algeria's top goalscorer, will also miss out on the squad for the first time in over a decade. Conversely, Said Benrahma, who did not participate in AFCON 2023, has been summoned back to the team. Algeria has initiated their campaign for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on a positive note, recording victories against both Somalia and Mozambique, signaling a strong start in their quest for qualification. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Togo Holds Crucial Parliamentary Elections Under New Governance Charter Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond Apr 29, 2024 ​ On Monday, Togo initiated its long-awaited legislative elections following a series of constitutional reforms approved by the previous parliament. These reforms, which could potentially extend the 19-year reign of President Faure Gnassingbe, include a shift to a parliamentary governance system where the president will now be elected by parliament members instead of by public vote. In March, Togo adopted a new charter transitioning to a parliamentary governance system. This change means that the head of state will no longer be chosen through universal suffrage but will be elected by the newly formed parliament. Moreover, under the new constitution, there is a new role, the president of the council of ministers, who is endowed with substantial powers to oversee government operations in this coastal West African nation. The election was initially postponed twice due to opposition from certain parties who viewed the constitutional amendments as a strategy for President Gnassingbe to maintain power indefinitely. Despite these controversies, the polls opened at 0700 GMT with over four million registered voters expected to choose from 2,352 candidates vying for 113 parliamentary seats. Provisional results are anticipated as early as Tuesday. Voters expressed mixed feelings about the organization of the election process. While some, like Parfait Akakpo from the capital, Lome, remain hopeful for development and peace, others faced logistical issues. Klevor Edoh Firmin highlighted problems such as missing names on voter registers and the undue strain on elderly voters. Following their boycott of the previous legislative elections, opposition parties are eager to secure seats to challenge the dominance of Gnassingbe's UNIR party. Accusations of suspected electoral fraud by some opposition candidates underscore the high stakes of this election. As Togo navigates these pivotal legislative elections under its new constitutional framework, the outcomes could significantly impact the nation's political landscape. The world watches as Togo decides on its path forward amidst hopes for enhanced governance and national stability. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024