DRC Navigates Tense Relations with Uganda Amid Accusations and joint fight against ADF Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Griffith Sarah Jul 20, 2024 UPDF withdraws from Congo from a failed EAC mission led by Kenya On July 12, during a Cabinet meeting chaired by President Félix Tshisekedi, Deputy Prime Minister in charge of Defence, Guy Kabongo, reported that M23 rebels were "forcibly recruiting young people” and receiving "continuous reinforcements of personnel and equipment" from Rwanda and Uganda. This marked the first time in recent years that the Congolese government directly accused Uganda of supporting M23. Previously, only National Assembly Speaker Vital Kamerhe had labeled Uganda as an "aggressor" without government backing. The accusation came just four days after a United Nations Group of Experts report implicated Uganda in the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC. The Uganda People’s Defence Forces quickly rejected these allegations. Military experts in the DRC, like Nicaise Kibel Bel, noted that Uganda has been involved in the region since the 1990s alongside Rwanda. He warned against an open conflict, deeming it costly and complex for both nations. Government Spokesman Patrick Muyaya highlighted the duality of Uganda's involvement, noting that Ugandan soldiers are fighting alongside Congolese forces against the ADF rebels in Ituri and North Kivu. Since November 30, 2021, both armies have been conducting joint operations against the ADF, a rebel group with roots in Uganda. Ugandan army spokesman Brigadier-General Félix Kulayigye dismissed the UN report, emphasizing that Uganda hosts refugees in line with UN policy and does not support M23. This delicate situation underscores the DRC's cautious approach to its relationship with Uganda amid ongoing regional tensions. 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

Artist Sega El from Réunion Islands Sends a Message of Comfort to Rwandans Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Apr 9, 2024 ​ In a heartfelt gesture of remembrance, Sega El stands with Rwanda on the solemn 30th anniversary of the genocide. Image: Instagram/segaelofficial The artist Sega El, originating from the Réunion Islands, joined the Rwandan community in commemorating the 30th anniversary of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. Through her social media platforms, she shared a message of solidarity with Rwandans during this period. Sega El, who was a nominee at the recent Trace Awards held in Kigali in October 2023, posted on her Instagram wall on April 7, 2024, expressing her prayers for the Rwandan people and her unity with them in remembering the 30th anniversary of the Genocide Against the Tutsi. In her message, she called on everyone to pray for peace, unity, and reconciliation, saying, “On this day of remembering the Genocide (Against the Tutsi) in April 1994, my thoughts are with Rwanda. Let us pray for peace, healing, and reconciliation.” Besides her message, she also shared other photos including a speech by the President of Rwanda given at the start of the week dedicated to remembering the Genocide Against the Tutsi. She accompanied her shared posts with a photo of President Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame lighting the lamp of hope. Sega El is known for hits such as ‘Trakass Pa Pou Moin,’ and was the only female nominee in the ‘Best Artist Indian Ocean’ category at the Trace Awards, competing against artists like Mikl and Goulam. 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 Development Bank Enforces 12-Month Ban on Chinese Construction Firm for Misconduct in Uganda Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 1, 2024 ​ In a decisive move to uphold integrity and transparency within its funded projects, the African Development Bank (AfDB) has issued a 12-month suspension against China Henan International Corporation Group (Chico), a major Chinese road construction entity. This action comes in response to fraudulent practices uncovered by the AfDB in a road project in Uganda. Unveiling the Case of Misconduct The investigation led by the AfDB brought to light that Chico engaged in deceptive practices by failing to declare the involvement of a commission agent during the bidding process. This was specifically noted in the tender submissions for the civil works required for the upgrade of the Rukungiri-Kihihi-Ishasha/Kanungu road. This road is a segment of the broader Road Sector Support Project in Uganda, aimed at bolstering regional integration and facilitating cross-border trade with neighboring nations like the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Kenya. Implications of the Ban Effective March 28, Chico faces a prohibition from participating in any new projects financed by the AfDB across the African continent, including Kenya, where the company currently has active engagements. This suspension underscores the AfDB's commitment to fostering a culture of transparency and ethical conduct in all its developmental endeavors. Regional Impact and Future Prospects The ban not only affects Chico's operations in Uganda but also casts a shadow on its projects in other African countries like Kenya and Tanzania, some of which are funded by the World Bank and local governments. These projects have faced various challenges, raising questions about the company's adherence to ethical standards in its business practices. As the continent moves forward, this incident highlights the critical need for stringent oversight and the enforcement of ethical standards in developmental projects. It serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity in ensuring the success and sustainability of infrastructural initiatives that are pivotal for Africa's growth and regional cohesion . 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

Presidents Kagame and Ramaphosa Discuss Eastern Congo Conflict, Express Optimism for Collaboration Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Griffith Sarah Apr 9, 2024 ​ President Kagame meets with President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa on the sidelines of the G7 summit President Paul Kagame of Rwanda stated he was "satisfied" after meeting with his South African counterpart, Cyril Ramaphosa, and discussing the war in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. When he came to Kigali for the 30th genocide commemoration ceremony, Ramaphosa met Kagame, but the results of their meeting were not announced. South Africa is leading a group of forces from the Southern African Community of Nations, SADC, which is assisting the Congolese government forces in fighting against the M23 in the North Kivu province. The deployment of troops by South Africa did not please the authorities in Kigali, who say that, as UN experts confirm, the Congolese army is joining forces with the FDLR rebels against the Rwandan government. While UN experts also accuse Rwanda of supporting the M23 group, a claim Kigali continues to deny, many now perceive South Africa and Rwanda as competitors in the Congo war. Ramaphosa's visit to Kigali was significant news. In a press conference on Monday in Kigali, Kagame said, "We would not spend hours, the president of South Africa and I, not talking about it," referring to the conflict in Congo. President Kagame stated: “I think we had a good conversation, we understood the situation well, and perhaps there is a better way to work together to solve the problem. I am satisfied.” Before leaving Rwanda, President Ramaphosa told reporters he was departing with "new energy and determination" to find a "political solution" to the conflict. 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

Saudi Arabia Aims for Mineral Powerhouse Status, Eyes Africa for Expansion Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 16, 2024 ​ South African president and Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Riyadh, with visions of becoming a global minerals and industrial hub, is turning to Africa to fill the gaps in its domestic mining capabilities. Despite holding an estimated $2.5 trillion worth of minerals, Saudi Arabia recognizes the need for international partnerships to harness a broader range of resources. As the kingdom looks to reduce its dependency on oil, per its "Vision 2030" strategy, it has identified Africa's rich mineral deposits as key to this transformation. Khalid al-Mudaifer, Saudi's Deputy Mining Minister, emphasized the kingdom's commitment to not just extracting resources but also contributing to the development of local infrastructure, technology, and education in African mining communities. This approach aims to ensure mutual growth and value retention within these nations. Recent deals with four African countries and discussions with the U.S. to secure critical minerals for energy transitions underscore Riyadh's proactive steps. The kingdom's investment in mining, including a $15 billion global mining stake acquisition, showcases its long-term strategy. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia's hosting of the Future Minerals Forum, attended by numerous African nations, highlights its rapidly growing influence in the global mining sector. Saudi Arabia's engagement with Africa represents a shift from traditional aid to investment-based relationships, promising to leave a lasting positive impact on the continent's mining sector. This approach not only offers African countries an alternative to existing mining giants and Chinese interests but also potentially aligns them with broader U.S. mineral strategies. However, challenges such as building infrastructure and developing skilled labor in both Saudi Arabia and its African partners may pose hurdles to the kingdom's ambitious plans. Nonetheless, Saudi Arabia's strategic advantages and commitment to collaborative growth present a compelling proposition for African nations eager for sustainable 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

Rwanda Welcomes 113 Refugees and Migrants from Libya Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Jun 15, 2024 ​ Rwandan immigration officers welcomed 113 refugees and migrants from Libya on Thursday, June 13. The new arrivals, hailing from South Sudan, Eritrea, Sudan, Côte d'Ivoire, Ethiopia, and Somalia, are the 18th group of migrants deported from the North African country under the emergency transit mechanism established by the Rwandan government and the United Nations refugee agency in 2019. This initiative aims to support African migrants stranded in Libyan detention facilities. Since its inception, Rwanda has received over 2,300 migrants and asylum seekers. The Rwandan Ministry of Emergency Management reaffirmed the country's commitment to addressing the global migration crisis and providing assistance to those in need. Through this mechanism, asylum claims of migrants are processed in Rwanda, with more than 1,600 individuals resettled in third countries. Rwanda hosts over 130,000 refugees, primarily from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burundi 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

AKA Murder Case Unfolds: Fikile Mbalula Praises SAPS for Arresting Suspects Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Feb 29, 2024 ​ Fikile Mbalulu delivering a powerful speech during elections Campaign. Image source: Instagram/fikilembalula The rain fell relentlessly, a mournful symphony on the rooftop. Johannesburg, once vibrant, now wore a cloak of sorrow. AKA’s legacy lingered a melody cut short, a poet silenced. Fikile Mbalula stood by the window, raindrops tracing their path down the glass. His praise for the SAPS was a fragile thread, woven to mend a fractured reality. But the truth weighed heavy a burden etched into his weary soul. Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, a man of honor, bore the weight of justice. His footsteps echoed in the corridors, each one a step toward redemption. But redemption for whom? The suspects, their faces obscured, whispered secrets. AKA’s blood stained the streets, and the city wept. Bheki Cele, the enigma, moved like a shadow. His eyes held stories of power, betrayal, and lost dreams. He knew the cost of silence, the price of loyalty. But loyalty to what? The rain blurred the lines, and the truth remained elusive. Read Also: Other 7 Suspects Arrested in Connection with AKA and Tibz Homicides And AKA? His rhymes echoed through empty rooms, haunting those who listened. The Wish restaurant, once a haven, now bore witness to tragedy. The stage was set, the players danced, but the music faltered. As the sun dipped below the horizon, Fikile Mbalula’s heart clenched. He had praised the guardians of justice, but justice had its own agenda. AKA’s mother wept silently, her grief a tempest. The suspects, pawns or accomplices awaited their fate. In the heart of South Africa, where shadows whispered secrets, the rain wept for lost souls. The media dissected every syllable, but answers remained elusive. AKA’s legacy-a broken rhyme, an unfinished verse haunted the city. And so, the curtain fell on this tragic tale. The streets, once bustling, now held echoes of despair. Fikile Mbalula stared into the night, seeking solace in the rain’s rhythm. Justice, like a distant star, flickered a promise unfulfilled. In the shadows of silence, AKA’s legacy lingered a melody cut short, a poet silenced.[ briefly ] More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

FIFA Series: Inaugural Season Concludes Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Mar 28, 2024 ​ Algeria served as the venue for several matches during the debut edition of the FIFA Series.@zawya.com The inaugural FIFA Series, concluding on March 26th, marked a significant milestone in international football by hosting friendly matches that brought together national teams from FIFA's six confederations. This initiative provided a unique platform for teams that rarely face off against one another, fostering a diverse competitive environment. The pilot edition saw participation from 24 national teams, with Algerian forward Yacine Brahimi praising the event as a crucial development for Algerian football and the broader African continent. "The FIFA Series has allowed us to highlight Algerian football and our infrastructural capabilities, while also challenging us with diverse playing styles from teams like those from South America and South Africa," Brahimi noted, emphasizing the benefits of such cross-continental encounters. This series facilitated matchups between four national teams from different confederations in a single host country, offering a varied and enriching football experience. Among the contenders, Croatia, ranked 10th globally, was the highest-ranked participant, while Sri Lanka, positioned 204th, was the lowest, illustrating the wide spectrum of talent and competition present in the series. Aiming to bolster the development of national teams with limited exposure to international football outside their continents, the FIFA Series also provided financial support for travel expenses for some teams. This edition featured nine African teams competing across five countries over three continents, underscoring FIFA's commitment to expanding the football landscape. Looking ahead, the next FIFA Series , slated for March 2026, aims to include teams of higher rankings, further elevating the competitive standard. This initiative aligns with FIFA President Gianni Infantino's vision, unveiled during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, to enhance the quality of football in regions beyond the traditional strongholds of Europe and South America and to cultivate more competitive World Cup tournaments. 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 Mbappe Tasked with Breaking Cristiano Ronaldo's Record at Real Madrid Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 18, 2024 Mbappe showcases his agility and athleticism in an impressive aerial maneuver Kylian Mbappe has officially been unveiled as Real Madrid's latest signing, marking the end of years of transfer talks between the player and the club. The 25-year-old France international is widely regarded as the ideal successor to Cristiano Ronaldo at the Spanish giants, despite the impressive rise of Vinicius Junior. Mbappe has always been vocal about his admiration for Ronaldo, considering the Portuguese star his idol. In a recent viral video shared by Al Nassr Zone on X, Mbappe's unveiling at Real Madrid closely mirrored Ronaldo's iconic 2009 presentation at the Santiago Bernabeu. Mbappe acknowledged that he mimicked Ronaldo's actions as a tribute to his mentor, according to Madrid Zone on X. Mbappe's Impact and the Challenge Ahead Nigerian journalist Pedro Peter expressed his views on Mbappe's move to Real Madrid and its implications for the team. "Finally, we see the end of one of the most protracted transfer sagas of the 21st century with Kylian Mbappe's official unveiling in Madrid," he said. Peter believes Mbappe's arrival will significantly bolster Carlo Ancelotti's squad , making Real Madrid an even more formidable force in La Liga and European competitions. "Mbappe's quality is close to that of Cristiano Ronaldo, and he will be eager to make an immediate impact," he added. However, breaking Ronaldo's all-time scoring record of 450 goals will be an immense challenge for Mbappe. Peter explained, "To match that record, Mbappe would need to score 50 goals in nine consecutive seasons. It will be difficult, though not impossible, given Mbappe's elite finishing abilities." The Path Forward for Mbappe As Mbappe begins his journey with Real Madrid, all eyes will be on his performance and his ability to fill the shoes of his idol. The young forward's potential to become a Real Madrid legend is undeniable, but only time will tell if he can surpass Ronaldo's legendary achievements. 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

UN Human Rights Chief Volker Turk warns the world not to forget the continually escalating conflict in Eastern DRC. Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Griffith Sarah Apr 18, 2024 ​ The United Nations Human Rights Commissioner, Volker Turk GOMA, DRC — The United Nations Human Rights Commissioner, Volker Turk, urged the international community to refocus its attention on the escalating violence in North Kivu Province, Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), during his visit to an internally displaced persons camp near Goma. Amid his official tour, initiated at the request of the Congolese government, Turk emphasized the critical need for concerted efforts towards peace. "We must work extremely hard for peace to be achieved," he stated after meeting with victims displaced by the ongoing conflict with March 23 Movement (M23) rebels. The M23 group, involved in heightened conflicts since January, has expanded its control, capturing key towns and causing significant disruptions in North Kivu. Turk's itinerary includes crucial discussions with President Felix Tshisekedi and other high-ranking officials in Kinshasa, aiming to address the root causes of these conflicts. Background of the Conflict in North Kivu The M23 rebels, primarily active in North Kivu, have intensified their military actions, leading to major territorial gains and a concerning proximity of armed conflicts to displacement sites. This situation has escalated criminal activities and led to substantial displacement of communities, making areas like Rutshuru and Masisi the epicenters of the crisis. International Response and the Role of UN Peacekeepers In response to the crisis, UN peacekeepers have been actively involved in rescue and relief operations, including the recent liberation of five civilians abducted in the region. However, the ongoing violence has not only affected the DRC but also contributed to increasing tensions in neighboring regions, including Burundi. As the situation develops, the international community's renewed focus on Eastern DRC could play a pivotal role in mitigating the violence and supporting a path to stability. With the UN's involvement, there is hope for advancing peace initiatives and providing necessary aid to the affected populations. 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

Kenyan Police Begin Patrols in Haiti despite Homegrown Unrest Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jun 29, 2024 Kenyan police team on streets in Haiti on left and Kenyan man kicks teargas can in Nairobi on the right Port-au-Prince, Haiti – As Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille travels to the U.S., Kenyan police have started patrolling Port-au-Prince to combat armed gangs, part of a UN-backed mission. Conille, with key ministers, left Haiti on Friday, with Justice Minister Carlos Hercule acting as prime minister in his absence. The delegation will meet with international financial institutions and inspect Haiti’s Washington embassy. Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer will meet Conille on Monday. The U.S. financially supports the Kenya-led security force, requested by Haiti in 2022 . The first Kenyan officers arrived this week, with over 2,500 expected. Residents hope the Kenyan presence will restore peace. "We need peace...so we can return to the lives we used to have," said Kloud Dine. Gang leader Jimmy "Barbecue" Cherizier has vowed to resist the Kenyan police, calling them invaders. The violence has displaced over half a million people, with half the population facing hunger. As Kenyan police work to stabilize Haiti, they face unrest at home, highlighting the challenges of global security efforts. 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

Volkswagen Announces $210 Million Investment in South African Plant for New SUV Production Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 16, 2024 ​ Volkswagen to make more SUVs in South African Eastern Cape, South Africa – Volkswagen has unveiled plans for a significant investment of 4 billion rand ($210.67 million) into its manufacturing facility located in the Eastern Cape, aiming to start production of a new SUV model by 2027. This development underscores South Africa's role as a leading automotive manufacturing hub in Africa, which is home to global giants like Toyota, Isuzu, Mercedes, and Volkswagen itself. The investment will be channeled into upgrading the Kariega plant's facilities, preparing it for the addition of a third vehicle model to its production line. This upgrade will initiate during a planned plant shutdown at the end of 2024, signaling the first phase of the project. Martina Biene, Chairperson and Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Africa, commented on the strategic focus of the investment, highlighting the continued relevance of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles in African markets. "While the global auto industry shifts towards electric vehicles, there is still robust demand for ICE vehicles in Africa due to slower electric vehicle adoption rates," Biene explained. This investment contrasts with trends in the European Union and the U.S., where there is a strong push towards phasing out CO2-emitting vehicles and boosting electric vehicle sales to as much as 35% by 2035. The new SUV is being developed by Volkswagen Brazil with significant input from Volkswagen Group Africa’s engineering team to ensure it meets the specific needs of local and continental markets, including adaptations for right-hand driving. Although the name of the new SUV has not been disclosed, it joins the Polo and Polo Vivo models currently manufactured at the Kariega plant. Further diversifying its African operations, Volkswagen will also introduce the ID.4 test fleet in South Africa and Rwanda as part of its broader strategy to explore electric mobility in the region. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024