U.S. and DRC Partners Urge Rwanda to Account for Alleged Involvement in Congo Attacks Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond May 8, 2024 ​ U.S. and DRC's Partners Call On Rwanda to Punish Forces Over Attack Introduction to the Conflict The United States has recently intensified its calls for Rwanda to hold its military forces accountable following an attack on a camp for internally displaced persons near Goma, in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Both the DRC and the U.S. have accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebel group, which is said to have participated in the assault. Direct Accusations from the U.S. State Department On Friday, the U.S. State Department made a direct accusation against Rwandan forces for collaborating with M23 rebels in the deadly attack, which claimed the lives of over a dozen people. The U.S. insists that Rwanda must thoroughly investigate the incident and penalize those responsible. Rwanda's Firm Denial In response to these allegations, Rwandan government spokesperson Yolande Makolo dismissed the claims as "ridiculous," asserting that Rwanda's army operates professionally and would never target a displacement camp. Rwanda contends that the accusations are unfounded and has called for a credible external investigation to determine the facts of the incident. Evidence of Rwandan Support for M23 Despite Rwanda's denials, the U.S. maintains that there is sufficient evidence indicating Rwandan support for M23 rebels. These rebels, primarily composed of ethnic Tutsis, have been involved in conflicts in the region since their resurgence in 2021. International Responses and Diplomatic Efforts The European Union, the African Union, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and various international leaders have condemned the attack, calling for Rwanda to cease its alleged backing of M23. Recent diplomatic efforts include U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to Kigali, where he encouraged Rwanda to engage diplomatically to resolve the ongoing conflict. Ongoing Regional Tensions The situation remains tense as regional and international actors strive for a resolution. The Congolese government continues to urge Rwanda to adhere to international calls for a ceasefire and to withdraw its troops from the DRC, emphasizing that the recent attacks violate international humanitarian law. The DRC and its international partners remain firm in their stance against Rwanda's alleged involvement in the region's unrest. With continued diplomatic negotiations and international pressure, there is hope for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, which has long plagued the eastern regions of the DRC. 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

Onana's Heroics Secure Cameroon's Convincing Win in World Cup Qualifiers Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Jun 9, 2024 ​ In a thrilling match, Cameroon triumphed over Cape Verde 4-1, with Vincent Aboubakar scoring twice and Andre Onana saving a crucial stoppage-time penalty. This marked a stress-free debut for Marc Brys, the new coach, despite initial tensions between Fecafoot and the Ministry of Sport. Cape Verde, who had outperformed Cameroon in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations , struggled with set-pieces throughout the match. The game ended decisively when Onana saved Kevin Pina's penalty in the 94th minute and was fouled by Gilson Benchimol while securing the ball. This victory puts Cameroon at the top of Group D in the African qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, tied with Libya on points but ahead on goal difference. With Africa having nine spots in the expanded 2026 finals, Cameroon looks poised to make a strong bid for a place in the tournament hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada. 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

US Embassy Issues Security Alert for Nairobi Amid Rising Crime Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 17, 2024 ​ Exterior view of Us embassy Kenya The US Embassy in Kenya has released an urgent security advisory for American nationals in Nairobi County, highlighting a noticeable upsurge in criminal activities in residential locales. The embassy's cautionary note, made public through their official website this past Friday, emphasizes the necessity for heightened vigilance among US citizens when navigating the streets of Nairobi's estates, in light of the Kenyan government's ongoing efforts to mitigate the situation. Rising Concerns Over Street Crime in Nairobi According to the embassy's alert, there has been a discernible increase in opportunistic crimes within Nairobi's residential areas. Predominantly, these incidents involve snatch-and-grab attacks targeting personal belongings such as purses and mobile phones. In response, the Kenyan authorities are reportedly intensifying police presence in areas identified as high-risk for criminal activities. Safety Recommendations for US Nationals In light of these developments, the embassy advises American residents and visitors in Nairobi to adopt precautionary measures to safeguard their personal security. Key recommendations include maintaining a heightened awareness of one's surroundings, adopting a low-key demeanor to avoid drawing attention, and eschewing displays of affluence such as wearing ostentatious jewelry or openly carrying significant amounts of cash. The advisory also underscores the importance of concealing valuable items like mobile phones to deter potential thieves. Guidance in the Event of a Robbery The security notice further counsels US citizens against resisting in the event of a robbery, cautioning that attempts to confront perpetrators could escalate into violence. The embassy advocates for compliance and calmness during such incidents to minimize the risk of harm. Vehicle Security Measures For those traveling by car, the embassy stresses the importance of keeping vehicle doors locked and windows closed to prevent opportunistic crimes, especially in stationary traffic or when parked. Kenyan Government's Stance on Urban Crime The advisory comes despite reassurances from Kenyan officials, including Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, regarding the containment of urban crime in Nairobi. Previously, the city had seen a surge in criminal gangs wielding knives and other weapons, causing alarm among residents and the business community. However, Prof Kindiki has affirmed the implementation of comprehensive strategies by the National Police Service, involving multiple agencies and disciplines, aimed at clamping down on street crime and restoring safety and order. This alert serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in ensuring personal safety in urban environments and the continuous efforts by both the Kenyan government and foreign diplomatic missions to address these concerns . 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

China Cancels Interest-Free Loans to Zimbabwe Amid Debt Crisis Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 18, 2024 ​ The current President of Zimbabwe,Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa. In a recent move to aid Zimbabwe's escalating debt dilemma, China has announced the cancellation of an unspecified amount of the country's matured interest-free loans. As Zimbabwe grapples with a substantial publicly guaranteed debt of $17.7 billion as of September 2023, with $12.7 billion attributed to external creditors, this gesture comes at a crucial time. Zimbabwe, heavily reliant on Chinese financial support due to ineligibility for loans from institutions like the World Bank and IMF, faces significant economic challenges. The country’s debt scenario worsened following defaults on repayments that began in the early 2000s and continued through the governance changes post-Robert Mugabe's era. Despite China’s involvement, which positions it as Zimbabwe's largest non-Paris Club creditor, allegations of a potential "debt trap" have surfaced. Critics argue that the loans, primarily used for infrastructural developments like airport upgrades and power station expansions, may increase China's political leverage over Zimbabwe. However, Chinese officials, including China's ambassador to Zimbabwe, Zhou Ding, assert that the loans are not intended to foster dependency but to strengthen bilateral relations and economic cooperation. China's decision to write off these loans is part of a broader strategy to address accusations of "debt-trap diplomacy," emphasizing a policy of non-interference and mutual benefit in its African engagements. This development also aligns with China's commitment in August 2022 to provide 23 interest-free loans to 17 African nations, highlighting its ongoing support despite global economic and political challenges. This move by China could provide Zimbabwe a respite as it navigates its complex debt landscape, potentially easing the burden as the country works towards economic stabilization and growth. 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

Rwanda's Sports Partnerships with Arsenal, PSG and Bayern Munich Boost Tourism and Global Presence Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 2, 2024 ​ Nyungwe forest one of most visited natural treasures of Rwanda Rwanda's financial engagements with top-tier football clubs Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), and FC Bayern Munich are strategic partnerships aimed at enhancing the country's tourism sector and global visibility, asserted President Paul Kagame. In a recent interview on April 1, 2024, with Radio 10 and Royal FM, Kagame emphasized the mutual benefits derived from these collaborations under the "Visit Rwanda" campaign, countering the criticisms of it being mere sponsorships. The partnerships have proven to be significantly fruitful, with many tourists citing the visibility of Rwanda in international football as a key factor in their decision to visit the country. Specifically, the alliance with FC Bayern Munich, established in August 2023, has markedly increased Rwanda's appeal in Germany. Kagame addressed the critics who question the appropriateness of such investments by a developing country like Rwanda, clarifying that these are not donations but profitable ventures for both parties. He highlighted the substantial growth in Rwanda's tourism revenue, which surged to $445 million in 2022 from $164 million in 2021, demonstrating the tangible benefits of these partnerships. This innovative approach to marketing and economic development showcases Rwanda's commitment to leveraging global platforms for national benefit, challenging traditional notions of aid and partnership . 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

Kenya's Visa-Free Policy is the start for New Era of Global Travelers Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Feb 22, 2024 ​ Kenya Revolutionizes Travel: A Visa-Free Gateway for All. Welcoming the World Starting January 2024, Kenya has announced a landmark decision to scrap visa requirements for all foreign nationals, marking its 60th year of independence with a significant move towards fostering global connectivity and trade. This strategic policy aims to eliminate the cumbersome visa application process, inviting tourists, business travelers, and explorers from every corner of the globe to experience the diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cities of Kenya without the prior necessity of obtaining a visa ​​​​. Digital Facilitation In conjunction with this visa-free initiative, Kenya is introducing an electronic travel authorization system to streamline the entry process. This digital platform is designed to pre-identify visitors, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free arrival experience. This move follows Kenya's earlier efforts to enhance mobility and cooperation, having previously lifted visa requirements for select nationalities in bilateral agreements​​. Boost for Tourism and Economy By opening its doors to the world, Kenya is poised to significantly boost its tourism sector, which is renowned for offering some of the planet's most incredible safari adventures and picturesque coastal retreats. The visa exemption is expected to attract a larger influx of international visitors, stimulating economic growth and reinforcing Kenya's position as a leading destination for tourism and business in Africa​​. This progressive step by Kenya not only aligns with the global trend of facilitating easier cross-border travel but also underscores the country's commitment to fostering international goodwill, cultural exchange, and economic development. 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

President Ruto Bows to Public Pressure, Refuses to Sign Finance Bill 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond Jun 26, 2024 President of Kenya William Ruto President William Ruto has announced his decision not to sign the controversial Finance Bill 2024, following significant public outcry. In a statement at the State House on Wednesday, alongside allied members of parliament, President Ruto acknowledged the overwhelming opposition from Kenyans. "Having reflected on the continuing conversation around the content of the Finance Bill 2024, I will decline to assent to the bill," he declared. "Therefore, I will not sign the Finance Bill 2024 and it shall be subsequently withdrawn. I have agreed with these members that this shall become our position." President Ruto emphasized the importance of engaging with Kenyan youth to understand their perspectives and concerns. "I propose an engagement with young people of our nation to listen to their issues and agree with them on their priority areas of concern," he said. Looking ahead, the President called for a multi-sectoral discussion on the nation's public debt and future economic policies. "I also propose that within the next 14 days, a multi-sectoral, multi-stakeholder engagement be held to chart the way forward on matters relating to the content of the bill as well as auxiliary issues raised in recent days on the need for austerity measures and strengthening our fight against corruption," he stated. In his address, President Ruto also announced immediate austerity measures to cut government spending. "I direct immediate further austerity measures to reduce expenditure, starting with the Executive Office of the President and extending to the entire executive arm of government," he said. He outlined specific reductions beginning with the Presidency. "I direct that operational expenditure in the Presidency be reduced to remove allocations for the confidential vote, reduce travel budget, hospitality, and purchase of motor vehicles, renovations, and other expenditures," he added. 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

Burkina Faso's Junta Conscripts Critics Amid Rising Repression Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Jul 2, 2024 Burkina Faso's self-declared new leader Ibrahim Traore In Burkina Faso, the ruling military junta has been conscripting its critics, including prominent figures like Arouna Loure, a vocal opponent who was forcibly enlisted into military service. Loure, an anesthesiologist, received a conscription order in September last year. Shortly after, he was abducted from his hospital by armed men and taken to a military camp near Kaya, where he was held for three months. Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have reported numerous similar cases, accusing the junta of kidnapping and conscripting dissenters. Despite these allegations, the junta has not publicly responded. Since March 2023, at least 19 such abductions have been verified by Reuters through interviews and public statements. The conscriptions appear to be part of junta leader Ibrahim Traore's strategy to suppress criticism since he seized power in a 2022 coup. Victims have described their conscription as arbitrary and punitive, often involving torture and forced military service. Some, including Loure, were later seen in military uniforms in social media posts. In addition to conscription, the junta has also been accused of extrajudicial killings and other human rights abuses, contributing to an ongoing climate of fear and repression in the country. Despite the junta's efforts, Burkina Faso continues to struggle with security issues and insurgent violence, leading to widespread civilian casualties. 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

José Mourinho Joins Egypt Cup Final Analysis Team as Pundit Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Feb 27, 2024 ​ José Mourinho aka Special One. IMAGE: Instagram/josemourinho Turki Al-Sheikh , the chairman of the Saudi General Entertainment Authority, has confirmed that renowned football manager José Mourinho will be part of the analysis team for the Egypt Cup final. This exciting development comes as the Egyptian Football Association collaborates with the Saudi Arabian Football Federation to stage the Cairo derby in the final of the 2022-2023 Egypt Cup, which will take place in Riyadh. In preparation for the highly anticipated match between Al Ahly and Zamalek , a total of 44 cameras will cover the action, including 28 inside the stadium. The production crew handling the broadcast is the same team that directed the World Cup final. Additionally, an agreement has been reached with the United Media Services Company for joint broadcasting, and discussions are ongoing with both Al Ahly and Zamalek regarding camera placement on the substitutes’ benches. This historic Egypt Cup final will be played in Saudi Arabia for the first time, specifically at Al-Awwal Park in Riyadh. As part of the Riyadh Season festivities, Turki Al-Sheikh has announced an additional cash prize of $500,000 for the cup final winner. The preparations for Al-Awwal Park Stadium are underway, and fans can look forward to a pre-match ceremony featuring a major star, followed by extensive celebrations with the victorious team. Al-Awwal Park( King Saud University Stadium). Photograph provided by StadiumDB The prize distribution is as follows: Winner: $500,000 Runner-up: $150,000 Best player: $50,000 Before kick-off, viewers can tune in to the pre-match analysis studio, hosted by Ibrahim Fayek and Walid Al Faraj, with the esteemed José Mourinho providing expert insights. [ kingfut ] 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

Malawi Vice-President's Plane Suspected to Have Crashed in Forest; Search Efforts Hindered by Fog Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jun 11, 2024 ​ A plane carrying Malawi's Vice-President Saulos Chilima may have crashed in a forest in the north of the country, according to a senior military official. Chilima and nine others were flying on Monday morning when their aircraft disappeared from airport radars. The military aircraft was flying in bad weather, complicating search efforts. Soldiers have been searching Chikangawa Forest, but fog has reduced visibility, Malawi Defence Force commander Paul Valentino Phiri said during a press briefing on Tuesday. President Lazarus Chakwera has emphasized that the mission to find the plane must continue. In an address on Monday evening, he assured Malawians that no resources would be spared in the search and expressed hope that survivors would be found. However, Chilima's party, the United Transformation Movement (UTM), expressed disappointment with the search operation, alleging that it started several hours after the plane went missing. The vice-president and president come from different parties but formed an alliance during the 2020 elections. Chilima, 51, was en route to represent the government at the burial of former government minister Ralph Kasambara. Former First Lady Shanil Dzimbiri was also on the flight, which took off from the capital, Lilongwe, on Monday morning. The plane was supposed to land in Mzuzu but was turned back due to poor visibility. President Chakwera has reached out to various countries, including the US, UK, Norway, and Israel, for support in the search operation. Chilima, who has been vice-president since 2014, is particularly popular among Malawian youth. He was arrested and charged in 2022 on allegations of accepting money for awarding government contracts, but the charges were dropped last month without explanation. Chilima is married with two children. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

The Economic Impact of Rising US Interest Rates on Africa Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Feb 25, 2024 ​ American economist talks about Africa's Economic Journey Amid Rising Global Interest Rates Global Monetary Policies and Africa's Economy The tightening of monetary policies in the United States, characterized by rising interest rates, has significant repercussions for Emerging Market and Developing Economies (EMDEs), including those in Africa. Factors driving this tightening cycle include improved prospects for U.S. economic activity, expectations of rising U.S. inflation, and a more hawkish Federal Reserve response to inflation, which collectively dampen investor sentiment towards EMDEs. This scenario exacerbates challenges for African economies by increasing the cost of borrowing, widening sovereign risk spreads, and affecting currency values and equity prices negatively​​. Africa's Economic Resilience and Challenges Sub-Saharan Africa showcases a diverse economic landscape, with some regions boasting rich natural resources and significant market potential. However, the continent faces numerous hurdles, such as increasing fragility and conflict exacerbated by climate change, which contribute to a slowdown in economic growth projections. The persistent global economic uncertainty and the sluggish recovery of major trading partners further strain the region's economic performance. High levels of debt distress in several African countries, compounded by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and other crises, highlight the urgent need for effective debt management and restructuring efforts to restore fiscal sustainability​​. Opportunities for Sustainable Development Despite these challenges, Africa holds considerable opportunities for sustainable economic development. The continent's vast natural resources can be harnessed to improve fiscal and debt sustainability, while the expected surge in the working-age population over the coming decades presents a unique chance to drive inclusive growth. Investing in human capital, economic diversification, and job creation is crucial to ensuring that the continent's economies can recover more robustly and equitably from the current challenges. Policymakers must prioritize actions that leverage Africa's demographic and natural resource advantages to foster long-term economic resilience and prosperity​​. 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

Unexpected Turn: David Carmo's International Debut Goal – A Twist in Morocco vs. Angola Clash Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Mar 24, 2024 ​ Center Back for FC Porto playing on Loan for FC Braga. @jogadores In a twist that football fans didn't see coming, David Carmo's international debut for his country was marred by an own goal, an uncommon start for the defender known for his reliability on the field. This incident happened during a friendly match between Morocco and Angola, turning what was supposed to be a showcase of international talent into a moment of individual adversity for Carmo. The own goal not only sparked discussions among the football community but also highlighted the unpredictability and pressure of playing at the international level. Despite this setback, David Carmo's journey to the international scene has been marked by strong performances at the club level, establishing him as a formidable presence in defense. The own goal, while unfortunate, serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges athletes face, especially when stepping onto the larger stage of international football. It's a test of resilience and character, not just for Carmo but for any player who finds themselves in a similar predicament. The friendly match between Morocco and Angola was more than just a game; it was a narrative of highs and lows, of unexpected turns that football often presents. For Carmo, the match was an opportunity to shine on the international stage, but the own goal added a layer of complexity to his debut. It's a moment that will be remembered not for the scoreline but for the personal journey of a player navigating the highs and lows of professional football. As the dust settles on the friendly match, the focus shifts to how David Carmo will rebound from this experience. It's a storyline that goes beyond the 90 minutes on the pitch, touching on themes of resilience, redemption, and the ever-present scrutiny faced by those in the public eye. The football community, connected by hashtags like #xtrafrica and discussions on social media, watches eagerly to see how Carmo's story will unfold, turning his initial setback into a stepping stone for future successes. 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