East African Community Considers Annual Genocide Remembrance Day Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 11, 2024 ​ EAC Deputy Secretary General Andrea Aguer Ariik Malueth In a significant move towards regional solidarity and historical remembrance, the East African Community (EAC) has announced plans to establish April 7 as an annual day of commemoration for the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. The initiative aims to honor the memory of the victims and reinforce the commitment to preventing such atrocities in the future. The proposal for this commemoration day was disclosed by EAC Deputy Secretary General Andrea Aguer Ariik Malueth during the recent remembrance event for the genocide. Malueth emphasized the importance of the EAC's proactive role in ensuring the horrors of 1994 are not repeated within the region. He indicated that a formal proposal would soon be presented to the EAC Council of Ministers for approval. In a gesture of solidarity, EAC leaders have previously erected a monument within the gardens of the EAC headquarters in Arusha, Tanzania, dedicated to the victims of the genocide. This act, along with the proposed commemoration day, symbolizes the collective mourning and remembrance of the lives lost during the tragic events in Rwanda. Malueth highlighted the EAC's commitment to eradicating the ideology of genocide through education, dialogue, and reflection on the consequences of such beliefs and their denial. The initiative reflects a broader strategy to foster unity and reconciliation within the region. The move has been met with appreciation, especially considering Rwanda's remarkable journey of recovery and reconciliation post-genocide. The nation's progress in fostering unity and rebuilding its societal fabric has been widely recognized as a testament to resilience and the power of collective healing. The proposed EAC Genocide Remembrance Day is a step towards not only honoring the past but also ensuring a future where the region stands united against the forces of division and hatred. The EAC's initiative serves as a reminder of the importance of remembering history to safeguard the future against similar atrocities . 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

Lagos to Unveil Africa’s Inaugural Purpose-Built Entertainment Arena Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Mar 3, 2024 ​ Drone picture of Victoria Island, Lagos. © provided by newtelegraph Persianas Group and Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority Break Ground on Lagos’ Cutting-Edge Entertainment Arena. In a momentous ceremony on Victoria Island, Lagos, the Persianas Group and the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) marked the beginning of an ambitious project: a 12,000-capacity arena that promises to redefine entertainment in Africa. This groundbreaking event drew key stakeholders, partners, and government officials, underscoring the significance of this venture. Africa’s first purpose-built entertainment arena is set to transform Lagos into a hub for major cultural and sporting events. With an estimated investment of $100 million, this state-of-the-art facility will not only be a trailblazer but also a home for unforgettable experiences. The arena’s multipurpose design ensures versatility, accommodating a wide spectrum of events. From electrifying performances by global and Nigerian music icons to family-friendly entertainment, intense basketball games, UFC fights, boxing matches, and WWE extravaganzas—the possibilities are boundless. Tayo Amusan, Chairman of The Persianas Group, envisions the arena as a beacon for live entertainment. Hosting over 200 events annually, it aims to be Africa’s premier destination for cultural spectacles. This dedicated space will provide exciting opportunities for both local talents and international artists. Beyond entertainment, the arena is poised to catalyze growth in Nigeria’s music, sports, and entertainment sectors. It’s not just about the spotlight; it’s about creating a thriving ecosystem. Anticipated to generate over 1,500 direct and indirect jobs, the project underscores its commitment to community development. As Afrobeats conquers global charts, Nigerian superstars like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido lead the charge. Now, it’s time for our facilities to match their rhythm a symphony of creativity , passion, and excellence. 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

Congo-Brazzaville President Denis Sassou-Nguesso to Visit Russia for Diplomatic Anniversary Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jun 26, 2024 Russian President Putin handshakes Congo brazaville President Denis Sassou-Nguesso Congo-Brazzaville President Denis Sassou-Nguesso is set to visit Russia on June 25th, marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. President Sassou-Nguesso departed Brazzaville on June 23rd, following an invitation from Russian President Vladimir Putin. Delegation and Agenda Accompanying the president is a delegation of over 70 officials, including key ministers from various sectors such as Land Planning, Foreign Affairs, Hydrocarbons, and Higher Education. The National Security Council Secretary-General and the president's special envoy on strategy will also be part of the delegation. Strengthening Military and Economic Cooperation In early June, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov visited Oyo, the stronghold of President Sassou-Nguesso. Lavrov emphasized continued military cooperation and mutual support in international forums like the United Nations. He praised Congo-Brazzaville's balanced perspective on the Ukraine conflict. Bilateral Initiatives The visit aims to advance joint economic projects, particularly involving the Congo National Oil Company (SNPC). In February 2024, members of the Congolese Labour Party attended an anti-neocolonialism forum hosted by Russia's ruling party, underscoring the deepening political ties between the two countries. 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

Zuchu Faces Ban in Zanzibar Following Provocative Stage Performance Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Mar 7, 2024 ​ Zuchu, One of Her Best Collections in Zanzibar. Image/@officialzuchu Tanzanian music sensation Zuchu has been barred from performing in Zanzibar for the next six months following a highly debated stage show. Her recent appearance on Kendwa Island featured explicit language and provocative gestures, leading to an outcry from conservative residents. The Zanzibar Arts Council swiftly took action, citing violations of the island’s customs, traditions, and cultural norms. In addition to the ban, Zuchu was fined $390 (£306) for performing without proper council registration. In a video posted on her Instagram account, Zuchu expressed remorse, emphasizing that her intention was to entertain, not mislead. The incident has sparked discussions about artistic freedom and the delicate balance between expression and societal norms. Zanzibar, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, remains a sought-after holiday destination. However, the clash between artistic expression and conservative values highlights the complexities faced by performers in the region. Despite the setback, Zuchu’s achievements are noteworthy. She became the first female musician in East Africa to amass one million YouTube subscribers in a single year. Additionally, her impressive feat of reaching 500 million YouTube views places her among the continent’s top female artists, as recognized by her label, WCB Wasafi. As Zuchu navigates this challenging period, her impact on the music industry continues to resonate. Fans eagerly await her return, while debates about artistic boundaries persist. 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

Police in Zimbabwe arrest opposition leader and 80 youths, says lawyer Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond Jun 17, 2024 Zimbabwean anti riot police Zimbabwe police arrested opposition leader Jameson Timba and 80 youths for holding an unauthorized political gathering, their lawyer reported on Monday. Timba, who became the interim leader of Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) after Nelson Chamisa resigned in January, was detained on Sunday along with the youths. According to their lawyer, Agency Gumbo, they remain in custody and are likely to face charges under public order laws. Gumbo indicated that efforts are underway to secure their release. CCC party spokesperson Promise Mkwananzi described the arrests as "regrettable" and indicative of " democratic regression ." The police were not immediately available for comment. Under Zimbabwean law, political parties must seek police clearance before organizing public gatherings. These regulations have historically been used to suppress opposition activities and ban political rallies. 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

Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 21, 2024 Chido Obi-Martin in action for Arsenal's youth team, showcasing his talent before his move to Manchester United. In a surprising turn of events, Manchester United have successfully signed promising young talent Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal, marking a significant coup for the Red Devils. Rising Star: Chido Obi-Martin Chido Obi-Martin, a name that has been generating buzz in youth football circles, is widely regarded as one of the brightest prospects in the sport. The young midfielder has shown immense potential with his exceptional skills, vision, and football intelligence. His performances for Arsenal's youth teams have been nothing short of stellar, earning him a reputation as a future star. Manchester United's Strategic Move Manchester United’s acquisition of Obi-Martin is seen as a strategic move to bolster their youth ranks and secure a long-term talent who can make an impact in the Premier League. The club has a history of developing young players, and Obi-Martin’s addition is expected to strengthen their squad in the coming years. Arsenal's Loss, United's Gain For Arsenal, losing Obi-Martin is a significant blow. The Gunners have invested in his development, and his departure will be felt within their youth setup. However, Manchester United’s proactive approach and willingness to invest in young talent have paid off, demonstrating their commitment to building for the future. Future Prospects Obi-Martin’s move to Manchester United opens up exciting possibilities. With the club's renowned youth academy and a pathway to the first team, he is in a prime position to flourish. Fans are eagerly anticipating his integration into the squad and watching his development under the guidance of experienced coaches at Old Trafford. Chido Obi-Martin’s transfer from Arsenal to Manchester United highlights the competitive nature of youth football in England. Manchester United’s ability to attract and secure such a talented young player speaks volumes about their vision for the future. As Obi-Martin dons the famous red jersey, the football world will be watching closely to see how this wonderkid’s career unfolds. 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 Leap: A Tsh49.34 Trillion ($19.35 billion) Blueprint for Elections and Afcon 2027 Glory Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 17, 2024 ​ Tanzania's Finance Ministry has announced a proposed budget of Tsh49.34 trillion ($19.35 billion) for the 2024/2025 fiscal year, marking an 11% increase from the previous year's Tsh44.4 trillion ($17.41 billion). This significant boost in budget allocation is primarily aimed at supporting the upcoming elections and the preparation for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), which Tanzania will co-host with Kenya and Uganda. The budget emphasizes increased recurrent spending, set to rise to Tsh33.55 trillion ($13.15 billion), in anticipation of the local government elections in October and the 2025 general election. Development spending is also on the rise, with Tsh15.78 trillion ($6.19 billion) earmarked for key infrastructure projects, including the renovation and construction of stadia for Afcon 2027. Finance Minister Mwigulu Nchemba highlighted the government's focus on infrastructure and social services, such as subsidized public education, as priority areas for the coming fiscal year. The budget aims to be predominantly funded through domestic revenue, targeted at Tsh33.26 trillion ($13.04 billion), and supplemented by domestic and external loans, alongside a slight reduction in external grants and concessional loans. The Tanzanian government is committed to enhancing domestic revenue collection methods, including tightening Tanzania Revenue Authority systems and investing in sectors that expand the tax base. Initiatives to formalize the informal business sector and improve tax compliance are also underway, with an emphasis on public-private partnerships to alleviate the government's financial burden on development projects . 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

Tiwa Savage Transforms into 'Boss Lady' for Her New Film 'Water and Garri' Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Apr 16, 2024 ​ The original film on Prime Video, directed by Meji Alabi, is set to begin streaming on May 10, 2024. Instagram/tiwasavage Tiwa Savage Steps into Executive Producer Role for New Prime Video Original 'Water and Garri' Tiwa Savage has taken on the mantle of executive producer for the upcoming Prime Video original film, "Water and Garri," set to start streaming on May 10, 2024. In a recent interview with ABC, Savage shared her experiences working on the project, which was directed by Meji Alabi. "Executive producing was like me just putting my boss hat on and trying to be a boss lady in all aspects of my life. It was fun and it was stressful doing that and also starring in it. But it just showed me that I can do anything I put my mind to. There are so many things that I have dreams of accomplishing and now I’m really motivated,” she expressed. Savage also revealed her long-standing passion for acting, which predates her music career. "I've always wanted to do acting. I've always wanted to do movies. Actually, that was my first love before music. So it felt like a full circle moment for me. I just felt it was time for me to finally get into that. I never wanted to let go of music, so it's a great way for me to still embody that,” Savage added. The film "Water and Garri" tells the story of a Nigerian fashion designer who returns to her homeland after establishing a successful career in the United States. Savage was particularly drawn to the project for its female-driven narrative. “It's a story first of all told by a female from a female point of view. I'm always an advocate for that and I don't think we have enough of that in the space of Nollywood and just in Africa in general. We do have but I don’t think we have enough. It's refreshing for me. It's a story about love, female empowerment,” she highlighted. Additionally, Savage discussed the growing influence of Afrobeats in Western music, noting its roots in African musical traditions. “I feel like genres like RnB, jazz, soul all originated from Africa, so it's a full circle moment to have Afrobeats having its moment right now. And then hear elements of it from the rhythm to the soul in the music. I felt like we were losing a bit of that in commercial music these days. It's good to see that African music is getting its shine again,” Savage commented. The full interview can be viewed below. 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

Sorrow and Anger as Congolese Mourners Blame Rwanda-Backed Rebels for Attack Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond May 16, 2024 ​ Mourners weeping on the grave of succumbed victims by Rwanda's M23 KIBATI, Democratic Republic of Congo, May 16 - In the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, families gathered near small coffins, mourning the children and others killed in a recent rocket attack. Amid their grief, many directed accusations at the rebels they believe launched the assault. Relatives, holding crosses with the names of the dead, voiced their anger towards Rwanda, the neighboring country they, their government, and the U.N. allege is supporting the M23 insurgents—a claim denied by Kigali. On May 3, at least five rockets struck camps sheltering displaced people around Goma, resulting in the deaths of mostly children and women. At a mass funeral in Kibati, 22 children were laid to rest in small caskets, alongside 13 other victims. "My daughter-in-law was murdered in the Mugunga camp," said Fikiri Mvano. "She was the victim of bombs dropped by Rwanda in support of the M23... She left us her children. She had nine, and three died with her." Rwanda has denied involvement in the attack, stating it is being used as a scapegoat and suggesting that militias loyal to Congo were responsible. Rwanda's government spokesman did not respond to a request for comment on Thursday. Both Congo and the United States have attributed the attacks to forces from Rwandan troops and M23. This ongoing conflict, the most intense M23 offensive since their 2012-2013 insurrection when they seized Goma, has displaced tens of thousands in a region plagued by unrest since Rwanda and Uganda's invasion nearly three decades ago. The M23, named after the March 23, 2009 accord that ended a previous Tutsi-led revolt in eastern Congo, claims that the Congolese government failed to integrate Congolese Tutsis into the army and government as promised. Recently, fighting has neared Goma, a city of around two million people and a critical humanitarian and logistical hub for the region. Residents feel increasingly trapped, expressed by Jules Buturanye, a spokesman for the victims' families who lost his sister in the attack. "If the enemy reaches us in Goma, we have nowhere to go except to drown in the lake or flee to Rwanda to join the enemy," he said. 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

EU Commits €1 Billion Loan to Egypt to Bolster Economy Amidst Regional Challenges Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 13, 2024 ​ Cairo, Egypt – The European Union announced on Friday a significant financial commitment of over $1 billion to Egypt, aiming to provide short-term economic relief. This loan is part of a broader financial package valued at €5 billion, designed to support Egypt through various regional and international challenges. EU's Financial Support Strategy for Egypt The €1 billion loan is the initial segment of a larger plan set to unfold until 2027. The EU plans to extend an additional €4 billion between 2024 and 2027, underlining a robust partnership aimed at economic stability and growth in Egypt. Context and Implications of the Financial Aid This financial aid comes at a crucial time for Egypt, as the country navigates through the economic repercussions of multiple crises. The ongoing conflict in Gaza, Houthi incursions in the Red Sea, and the global economic disturbances following the war in Ukraine have significantly impacted Egypt’s fiscal stability. Conditions and Expectations The EU's financial support is contingent upon Egypt’s continued progress toward enhancing democratic governance and upholding human rights standards. The European Union emphasizes , " The need for Egypt to take concrete and credible steps towards respecting effective democratic mechanisms, including a multi-party parliamentary system, and the rule of law," as well as ensuring human rights are protected. Broader Financial Engagements In addition to the EU’s commitment, Egypt secured an expanded support programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) last month, amounting to $8 billion. This is alongside another €8 billion deal with the EU, introduced in March, which aims to foster cooperation and mitigate migration issues from North 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

Rising Tensions in the Great Lakes: Burundi Accuses Rwanda of Rebel Support Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Drew Mcgee Jan 1, 2024 ​ Rwanda and Burundi Border Burundi's President, Evariste Ndayishimiye, has accused Rwanda of supporting the rebel group RED-Tabara, which is allegedly responsible for recent attacks in Burundi, including a deadly raid on the village of Gatumba near the Burundi-Congo border. This attack resulted in at least 20 deaths, including civilians​​. President Ndayishimiye claimed that Rwanda has been providing shelter, logistics, and financial support to RED-Tabara, a group that emerged in 2011 and has been active in Burundi since 2015. He accused Rwanda of hosting and maintaining the rebels and also claimed that Burundi had been unsuccessfully negotiating with Rwanda for two years for the extradition of these rebels​​. In response to these allegations, the Rwandan government has denied any association with the RED-Tabara rebel group. Rwanda has stated that it is not involved with any Burundian armed groups and urged Burundi to address its concerns through diplomatic channels. The RED-Tabara group, based in South Kivu in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, has denied targeting civilians in their attacks and claimed to be supported only by the Burundian people, not by any country. This situation has complicated the already tense relations between Burundi and Rwanda. Despite some improvement in relations since Ndayishimiye's ascension to power in 2020, the recent allegations and counter-allegations suggest a renewal of strains between the two neighboring countries. 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 Temporarily Halts BBC and VOA Broadcasts Following Controversial Human Rights Coverage Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 26, 2024 ​ Ibrahim Traore: From Battlefield to Leading Burkina Faso OUAGADOUGOU, Burkina Faso – Burkina Faso's government has suspended the radio broadcasts of BBC Africa and the U.S.-funded Voice of America (VOA) for two weeks. The suspension comes in response to their coverage of a Human Rights Watch report that accused the Burkinabe military of extrajudicial killings, including the deaths of at least 56 children in February. The report alleges these killings are part of a broader campaign against civilians suspected of aiding jihadist militants. The national communication council labeled the report as likely to incite public disorder due to its "peremptory and tendentious" statements against the military. In addition to the broadcast suspension, authorities have also blocked access within Burkina Faso to the websites of BBC, VOA, and Human Rights Watch. VOA Acting Director John Lippman emphasized the organization's commitment to accurate and balanced journalism and called on the Burkinabe government to reconsider its decision. This development has sparked international concern over press freedom and human rights in Burkina Faso. 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