4 ways Google is pioneering the Future of Information Discovery in Africa Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 25, 2024 ​ A symbolyic image depicting google's influence in Africa Google Search is continuously evolving, pushing the boundaries of technology to meet the ever-changing landscape of the internet and global information needs. Here are key innovations shaping the future of search Prioritizing Quality and Reliability Google's foundation lies in the PageRank algorithm, focusing on the relevance, helpfulness, and reliability of information. With the challenge of misinformation, Google emphasizes authoritativeness, especially in sensitive topics, and conducts extensive quality evaluations to maintain a high standard. Advancing Query Understanding From simple word matching to sophisticated language processing, Google has made significant strides in comprehending the intent behind user queries. Technologies like the Knowledge Graph and BERT have enhanced Google's ability to deliver precise information, breaking down language barriers with tools like Google Translate. Beyond Text - Embracing Multimedia Google's innovations extend to voice, visual, and multimodal searches. Voice search, "hum to search," Google Lens, and multisearch capabilities have transformed how users interact with information, making search more intuitive and aligned with natural human behaviors. Combating Spam and Ensuring Safety Google's commitment to a safe and relevant search experience involves advanced systems to detect and filter spam, keeping search results trustworthy. Ongoing AI advancements help maintain a spam-free environment, while policies and protections are in place to safeguard user privacy and safety. Google's journey is one of continuous improvement and exploration, especially with the integration of generative AI and large language models, to redefine search and information accessibility for billions worldwide . 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

Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso: Redrawing West Africa’s Map with a Military Confederation Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 13, 2024 Colonel Assimi Goïta of Mali, Captain Ibrahim Traoré of Burkina Faso, and General Abdourahamane Tiani of Niger The military juntas of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have signed a treaty forming the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), uniting 72 million people. This confederation aims to eradicate jihadist violence and build a robust economic alliance to reshape West Africa. Historic Signing in Niamey In Niger’s capital, Niamey, Burkina Faso’s interim leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, expressed gratitude for the formation of the AES. Addressing the assembly in his khaki fatigues and red beret, Traoré emphasized the shared history and unity among the three nations. "We have the same blood that runs in our veins," he declared, highlighting the legacy of their ancestors. Mali’s interim President Colonel Assimi Goïta echoed these sentiments, envisioning a future federation with free movement of people and goods, transcending national identities. The summit’s joint communiqué outlined plans for joint infrastructure projects, trade facilitation, and investments in agriculture, mining, and energy. The Road to Confederation The journey to this alliance began with coups in Mali (2020), Burkina Faso, and Niger (2023), which ousted civilian governments deemed ineffective against jihadist violence . The leaders of these nations criticized the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and former colonial power France for their inadequate support. Niger’s Abdourahamane Tiani confirmed the alliance’s break with ECOWAS. The AES's cooperation includes economic agreements like Niger’s discounted diesel sale to Mali. Sovereignty and Security The AES rejects Western military involvement, opting for partnerships with Russia and mobilizing local militias. However, the success of these strategies remains uncertain, with continued violence in regions like Liptako-Gourma. Critics argue that severing ties with ECOWAS and Western allies could lead to isolation. The AES’s leaders, however, view their stance as a break from colonial legacies, emphasizing sovereignty and self-determination. Virginie Baudais of the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute noted the shift in regional dynamics and the challenges faced by the AES. Despite aspirations, the coalition must address economic hardships to maintain legitimacy and improve living conditions. The Alliance of Sahel States marks a significant shift in West Africa’s political landscape, driven by a desire for sovereignty and regional cooperation. The success of this bold move will depend on the AES’s ability to address security threats and economic challenges effectively. 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

South Sudan Government and Rebel Groups Sign Pact for Lasting Peace Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond May 19, 2024 ​ A delegate attending high level meeting about S.Sudan Peace South Sudan’s government and opposition groups have taken a significant step towards a lasting peace deal through the Nairobi Mediation process. On Thursday, they signed the Declaration of Commitment, known as the Tumaini (Hope) Initiative, in Nairobi. The Tumaini Initiative, integrating previous agreements since 2020, marks a crucial development in the peace negotiations initiated by the Sant’ Egidio Catholic Community in Rome. President William Ruto later met with foreign envoys at State House Nairobi to discuss the support from South Sudan donor groups. The declaration was signed by the transitional government of national unity (TGoNU), Real-SPLM led by Pagan Amum, and South Sudan United Front (SSUF) led by former Army Chief Paul Malong. Supportive participants included civil society, women, youth, academia, religious groups, and the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (Igad), which acted as a guarantor. Chief Mediator Lt Gen Lazurus Sumbeiywo emphasized that the declaration marks the beginning of proper negotiations to address the root causes of South Sudan’s conflict and to empower the South Sudanese in their development. While some observers hoped for a timeline to prepare for the December 2024 elections, Gen Sumbeiywo clarified that the mission is to stop the violence rather than to adhere to election timelines. Despite some opposition groups boycotting the mediation, those participating have pledged full commitment to collaborating with the government to bring peace to South Sudan. The Nairobi Mediation process follows the breakdown of the Rome Initiative talks in March 2023. President Kiir’s request for President Ruto to take over the mediation was accepted in February 2024 after consultations with the Sant’ Egidio community in Rome. 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

Besides being the biggest economy in Africa Nigeria Ranks Behind Six Sub-Saharan African Countries in Internet Speed Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 17, 2024 ​ Nigeria has ranked seventh in Sub-Saharan Africa for internet speed, trailing behind Réunion, South Africa, Eswatini, Rwanda, Mauritius, and Botswana, according to the 2024 Worldwide Broadband Speed Report Key Findings: Nigeria's Average Speed : 27.62 Mbps Global Ranking Improvement : From 133rd in 2023 to 132nd in 2024 Top Performers in Sub-Saharan Africa : Réunion (63.29 Mbps), South Africa (42.42 Mbps) Lowest Performers in Africa : Sudan (4.02 Mbps), Central African Republic (4.08 Mbps), Ethiopia (4.45 Mbps) Sub-Saharan Africa's Internet Landscape The report, which conducted broadband speed tests across 220 countries, highlights significant disparities within the region. Réunion leads Sub-Saharan Africa with an average speed of 63.29 Mbps, placing 75th globally, followed by South Africa with 42.42 Mbps at 114th place. Meanwhile, Nigeria, with an average download speed of 27.62 Mbps, has shown improvement by moving up one position in the global ranking from 133rd to 132nd. However, it still lags behind its regional counterparts. Africa's Internet Speed Overview Africa as a whole averaged 14.99 Mbps, making it the region with the second-lowest internet speed globally. The report notes that 50 countries were measured in Sub-Saharan Africa, with nearly all landing in the slower half of the global league table. Nigerian Government's Broadband Efforts This ranking comes amidst the Nigerian government's ongoing efforts to meet its National Broadband Plan (NBP) 2020-2025 goals, spearheaded by the Nigerian Communications Commission. Despite aiming for 70% broadband penetration by 2025, Nigeria has only achieved 43.7% as of December 2023. While Nigeria has shown some progress in improving its internet speed ranking, it still faces significant challenges in catching up with other Sub-Saharan African countries. The government's continued focus on broadband penetration is crucial for further advancement. 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

United Bank for Africa Expands Influence in East Africa with Strategic Investments in Kenya and Uganda Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond Apr 27, 2024 ​ United Bank for Africa (UBA) in Uganda In a significant move within the East African banking sector, the Pan-African banking giant, United Bank for Africa (UBA), has notably increased its shareholdings in its Kenyan and Ugandan subsidiaries. This strategic decision highlights UBA's intensified efforts to strengthen its presence in a region dominated by Kenyan retail banks. Owned by Nigerian billionaire Tony Elumelu, UBA acquired an additional 13% in UBA Kenya Ltd and 11% in UBA Uganda Ltd during the year 2022. These acquisitions have elevated UBA Plc's ownership to 94% and 80% in the respective subsidiaries, marking a significant increase from the previous stakes of 81% in Kenya and 69% in Uganda. The detailed transactions were disclosed in the lender's latest annual report for 2023. The financial commitment towards these stake increases amounted to NGN 18.49 billion ($16.04 million). Specifically, UBA spent NGN 6.96 billion ($6.03 million) for the additional shares in Uganda, and NGN 11.52 billion ($9.99 million) for the Kenyan shares. Furthermore, in 2023, UBA injected an additional NGN 17.32 billion ($15.02 million) into these subsidiaries. This capital infusion included investments of NGN 5.14 billion ($4.45 million) in Kenya and NGN 12.17 billion ($10.55 million) in Uganda, aimed at bolstering their financial base and operational capabilities. This investment is part of UBA's broader strategy to capitalize on the East African Community (EAC) market, home to over 300 million people. UBA also operates subsidiaries in Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), indicating its robust footprint and commitment to the region. UBA's aggressive expansion in East Africa underscores its objective to enhance its market share and influence in the region's competitive banking sector. These strategic investments not only reflect UBA's long-term commitment to its East African operations but also demonstrate its confidence in the economic potential of the EAC market. 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

Tanzania's Ambitious Initiative to Bridge the Power Deficit in East Africa Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Feb 26, 2024 ​ Transformative Tanzania's Groundbreaking Energy Projects Set to Empower East Africa Tanzania is taking a significant leap towards addressing the electricity deficit in East Africa with its ambitious energy projects aimed at enhancing the region's power supply. The nation is harnessing its vast natural gas reserves and renewable energy potential to not only meet its domestic needs but also to contribute to the regional power grid. Strategic Natural Gas Exploitation Tanzania is in the final stages of approving a monumental $42 billion Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) project. This initiative, expected to transform the country's economy, involves collaboration with major global energy firms like Equinor, Shell, and Exxon Mobil. The project aims to tap into Tanzania's estimated 57 trillion cubic feet of gas reserves, which had previously seen stalled investments due to various disagreements. The renewed focus and negotiations led by President Samia Suluhu Hassan are setting the stage for the revival of offshore natural gas projects, which promise to significantly boost the country's energy output and economic landscape​​​​. Renewable Energy Ambitions Parallel to the natural gas venture, Tanzania is aggressively pursuing renewable energy projects with a target to inject over 6,000 megawatts of green energy into the national grid. This initiative positions Tanzania to become one of Africa's leading renewable energy producers, alongside giants like South Africa and Morocco. The green energy roadmap includes the completion of the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project and other hydro, solar, and wind projects. These efforts reflect Tanzania's commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly energy solutions, aiming to vastly increase its current electricity supply and support the region's demand​​. Impacts on Regional Electricity Supply The combination of Tanzania's LNG project and its renewable energy pursuits is poised to significantly mitigate the electricity shortfall in East Africa. By increasing its power generation capacity, Tanzania will not only secure its energy future but also play a crucial role in stabilizing the regional power supply. This strategic move is expected to attract more investments, foster economic growth, and support sustainable development in East Africa​​. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Uganda's Central Bank Responds to Shilling's Record Decline with Unscheduled Meeting Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 6, 2024 ​ Deputy Governor Michael Atingi-Ego Bank of uganda In a swift reaction to the Ugandan shilling's unprecedented slump, the Bank of Uganda has announced an unexpected convening of its Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) this Wednesday. The emergency session, prompted by the local currency's fall to a historic low, is set to be addressed by Deputy Governor Michael Atingi-Ego at 1 p.m. in the nation's capital. The central bank's decision comes in the wake of the shilling's significant depreciation, which hit a record nadir of 3,957.50 against the dollar on February 26, per Bloomberg's compiled data . This financial downturn marks an approximate 8% devaluation of the Ugandan currency following the World Bank's August announcement to halt funding to the country due to newly legislated anti-homosexuality laws. UGX/USD at record high The abrupt meeting's details remain scant, with the Bank of Uganda maintaining silence on the specific agenda. Efforts to reach Bank of Uganda spokesperson Kenneth Egesa were futile as his phone remained unavailable for comments. This pivotal monetary policy meeting underscores the urgent measures being contemplated by Ugandan financial authorities to stabilize the shilling and address the economic repercussions stemming from international funding disruptions. 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

Ugandan Shilling Steady with Expected Boost from remittance, exports foreign investments Inflows Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 21, 2024 ​ uganda shillings notes KAMPALA : The Ugandan shilling remains stable, with anticipated support from increased dollar inflows stemming from remittances, commodity exports, and foreign investments. As of now, the currency is trading at 3,870/3,880, showing minimal change from the previous day's close of 3,875/3,885. The market eyes potential upliftment from the inflow of dollars, especially with the Bank of Uganda's announcement to auction Treasury bonds totaling 520 billion shillings ($134.37 million) in both 20-year and 3-year categories. Such government securities sales are pivotal, as they not only aid in financing national projects but also influence the local currency's stability. An increase in Treasury bond sales can attract foreign investment, leading to a stronger shilling due to the influx of foreign currency. Investors and traders are closely monitoring these developments, predicting a positive impact on the Ugandan shilling's performance in the coming days. The outcome of the Treasury bonds auction, along with the sustained inflow of dollars, is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the currency's trajectory . 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

Sports Minister Commends Media for Exceptional Coverage of 2023 African Games Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Mar 26, 2024 ​ Ghanaian Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif. @graphic.com Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif has expressed disapproval of the media’s focus on the negative aspects of Ghana’s hosting of the 2023 African Games. Instead, he encourages highlighting the positive elements of the event. During a press conference at the University of Ghana Stadium, Ussif argued that Ghana has garnered international acclaim for organizing “ spectacular games .” Despite challenges faced by Ghanaian athletes, including inadequate support and equipment issues, Ussif remains steadfast in asserting the overall success of the games. He attributes the challenges faced by cyclists to the Cycling Federation’s failure to furnish a list of required equipment. Additionally, Nigeria’s former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Chief Sunday Dare, has extended his appreciation to Ghana for its successful hosting of the African Games. He commended Ghana’s President, Nana Akufo-Addo, and Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Mustapha Ussif, for their commitment to sports development and meticulous organization of the event . The 2023 African Games kicked off on March 3, with the grand opening ceremony scheduled for March 8. Ghana’s relay teams aim to uphold their momentum and secure podium finishes for the country in the 4x100m relay events . More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Congolese Army and Allies Neutralize M23/RDF Special Forces Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond Jun 3, 2024 ​ Congolese army (FARDC) marching to the battlefield In a strategic operation on May 31, the Congolese army and its allies, SAMIDRC, effectively neutralized elements of M23 and special forces of RDF ( Rwanda Defense Forces ) in the hills overlooking Sake. The engagement resulted in significant casualties among the RDF (Rwanda Defense Forces). local source confirmed Confirmed Statistics: Killed: 65 Injured: 75 Among the casualties was a lieutenant colonel from the RDF special forces. Local sources report that the bodies were promptly evacuated from the scene, with some interred in Mushaki. The senior RDF officer's body was transported back to Rwanda. "This decisive action underscores the resilience and tactical proficiency of our forces in maintaining regional stability." Local testimony Reports indicate that Rwanda is deploying a Special Forces battalion into the DRC, suggesting that the regular army may not be equipped to engage with the current FARDC, which is now well-trained and well-equipped 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

Kylian Mbappé Returns to Training, Boosts France's Euro 2024 Hopes Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jun 20, 2024 Euro 2024: France’s Kylian Mbappe trains with bandaged nose Kylian Mbappé's return to training on Wednesday has bolstered France's Euro 2024 prospects. After breaking his nose in their opening match, the Real Madrid forward trained at France's base in Paderborn, wearing wound-closure strips and a custom-made mask. Coach Didier Deschamps confirmed that Mbappé would need surgery post-tournament. Although he will miss Friday's game against the Netherlands, the French Football Federation is optimistic about his participation in the tournament. Mbappé shared his determination on Instagram, posting, "Sans risqué il n’y pas de victoires" (without risks, there are no victories). France’s medical team is closely monitoring his condition, with Deschamps noting, "This morning [Wednesday] he was already a little better, so we will see." Midfielder Adrien Rabiot is confident in Mbappé’s quick return, citing his Juventus teammate Wojciech Szczesny's swift recovery from a similar injury. France faces Poland in their final Group D match on Tuesday. Rabiot assured that the team could manage without Mbappé, emphasizing the depth of talent on the bench. 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

Afcon 2025 Qualifying Draw Set for July 4th in Johannesburg Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jun 14, 2024 ​ The qualifying draw for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) is scheduled to take place in Johannesburg on July 4th. The 48 competing teams will be divided into 12 groups of four each, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the finals in Morocco. The tournament hosts, Morocco, will be automatically included in the draw. However, as they are already guaranteed qualification, only one team from their group will secure a spot in the finals in North Africa. The exact dates for the 2025 Afcon finals have not yet been announced by the Confederation of African Football (Caf). Initially, Caf had planned to hold the tournament at the end of the European club season, in June-July. However, these dates would coincide with Fifa's inaugural 32-team Club World Cup. Veron Mosengo-Omba, the Caf secretary general, recently acknowledged the challenges of scheduling, describing it as "a nightmare. " He suggested that the 2025 finals might be played in early 2026 to ensure the best interests of the players are considered, addressing concerns about the workload of the continent’s elite players. The qualifiers for the 2025 Afcon will take place in September, October, and November this year . Chad, Eswatini, Liberia, and South Sudan have all progressed through a preliminary round to join the continent's 44 highest-ranked nations in the group draw. 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