Annually, an Average of 1,382 Shipping Containers Go Missing at Sea, According to Report Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 2, 2024 ​ The journey toward absolute safety of ships is far from over In an enlightening revelation by the World Shipping Council (WSC), the maritime industry has witnessed a significant downturn in the number of shipping containers lost at sea. The latest figures suggest an annual average loss of 1,382 containers up until 2019, which, while substantial, represents only a fraction of global shipping operations. Notably, the year 2022 marked an epoch of minimal losses, with merely 661 containers misplaced out of the staggering 250 million transported, underscoring a notable achievement in maritime safety. Despite this progress, the journey toward absolute safety is far from over. The variance in container losses, including a sharp increase between November 2020 and January 2021 where 2,675 containers were lost, accentuates the unpredictable nature of maritime logistics. The largest spike in losses since 2013 was observed during this period, bringing to light the myriad challenges the shipping industry faces. Human error remains a significant factor, with issues such as the misdeclaration of container weights, inadequate packaging, and suboptimal stowage planning compromising container security. However, an emerging and formidable challenge is the impact of climate change. Alterations in weather patterns, particularly in the Pacific Ocean, and the most potent Northern Pacific winds recorded since 1948 have heightened the risks, leading to an increased incidence of containers being dislodged and lost at sea. The repercussions of these losses extend beyond mere financial implications, posing severe threats to marine ecosystems. Incidents such as a recent ship breakdown, which led to the release of 6,000 pounds of sulfuric acid, underscore the potential environmental dangers associated with lost containers. Over 50% of such losses are attributed to ship groundings and structural failures during stacking, highlighting critical areas for improvement. In response, the shipping industry has seen the implementation of stricter regulations aimed at curbing the frequency of these incidents. These measures, coupled with enhanced safety protocols, offer a beacon of hope for further reductions in container losses. As the industry moves forward, the emphasis on safety and environmental preservation remains paramount, with each lost container representing a multifaceted threat that demands vigilant mitigation. As we navigate the complexities of global trade, the decline in lost shipping containers stands as a testament to the industry's resilience and commitment to continuous improvement. However, the path to a zero-loss future is intricate, necessitating unwavering dedication to safety, sustainability, and technological advancements . 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 William Ruto Suspends School Reopening Amid Flood Crisis in Kenya Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond May 4, 2024 ​ Kenya, President William Ruto In response to the severe flooding impacting large parts of Kenya, President William Ruto has announced an indefinite postponement of school reopenings nationwide. The decision, aimed at ensuring the safety and preparedness of educational facilities, comes as many schools have been damaged by the ongoing natural disaster. During a press briefing on April 3, President Ruto urged Members of Parliament to redirect more funds from the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) towards the reconstruction of affected school infrastructures. This move is critical to support the extensive repairs needed in the wake of the floods. "The Ministry of Education is directed to postpone the dates of reopening of all schools in the country for the second term until further notice," stated Ruto, emphasizing the government's commitment to student safety and educational integrity. Further addressing the nation, Ruto praised the community spirit and the efforts of institutional volunteers who have rallied to assist during this crisis. He also made a strong appeal to the public to heed safety alerts and avoid dangerous behaviors such as crossing flooded paths or driving on waterlogged roads. Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu also highlighted the issue, issuing new guidelines for school reopening originally scheduled for May 6. These guidelines involve collaboration with National Government Administration Officers to secure alternative accommodations for those displaced by the floods, including using some schools as temporary shelters. The government's focus remains on ensuring the safety of its citizens and minimizing the educational disruption caused by the floods. President Ruto's call to action reflects an urgent need for community cooperation and legislative support to navigate this challenging period 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

Kenya Enhances Mombasa Port Connectivity for East Africa Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Feb 19, 2024 ​ Mombasa Port's East African engine for trade connections Regional Logistics Kenya is taking decisive steps to improve the operational efficiency at the Port of Mombasa, aiming to persuade Uganda, Rwanda, and South Sudan to utilize this strategic maritime gateway more effectively. By streamlining clearing processes and introducing technological advancements in billing and cargo tracking, Kenya seeks to enhance the ease of trade for its landlocked neighbors. Infrastructure Upgrades and Technological Innovations The adoption of cutting-edge technologies at the Mombasa Port is central to Kenya's strategy to boost its appeal. Enhanced cargo processing systems and the incorporation of digital tracking are expected to minimize delays and losses, thereby ensuring a smoother trade flow. This technological leap is poised to redefine the logistics landscape, offering unparalleled efficiency and reliability. Revitalizing Rail Connectivity A key component of Kenya's outreach involves the revival of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project, in collaboration with Uganda. This infrastructure project aims to establish a direct rail link from the Mombasa Port to Kampala, with future extensions to Rwanda and South Sudan. By improving rail connectivity, Kenya and Uganda are laying the groundwork for a more integrated and efficient regional transport network. 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

Tragedy at Sea: 89 Migrant Bodies Recovered Off Mauritania's Coast Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Jul 5, 2024 Migrants aboard a traditional fishing boat navigate the waters off the coast, highlighting the perilous journey many undertake in hopes of reaching Europe Coastguards in Mauritania have recovered 89 bodies of migrants from a boat that capsized in the Atlantic Ocean on Monday. Nine people, including a five-year-old girl, were rescued, but dozens more are missing. Survivors report that the vessel, a traditional fishing boat, set sail last week from the Senegalese-Gambian border area with 170 people on board. It capsized off Mauritania's south-western coast. Mauritania is a key transit point for migrants attempting to reach Europe from West Africa , with thousands of boats departing from the country last year. The most common destination on this perilous route is Spain's Canary Islands. According to the Spanish government, nearly 40,000 people arrived there last year, doubling the number from the previous year. Desperate to reach Europe, migrants often travel in overloaded boats. More than 5,000 migrants died while trying to reach Spain by sea in the first five months of 2024, according to estimates by the Caminando Fronteras charity. In April, the EU granted Mauritania €210m (£177m; $225m) in aid, with almost €60m allocated to combat undocumented migration to Europe. 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

Football: Haller Ruled Out of Today's Champions League Match Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Apr 16, 2024 ​ Ivorian International Football Player. Photo:parismatch Borussia Dortmund's Sébastien Haller to Miss Champions League Quarterfinal Against Atlético Madrid Borussia Dortmund forward Sébastien Haller has been sidelined for Tuesday’s Champions League quarterfinal second leg against Atlético Madrid due to a recurrence of his left ankle injury. Dortmund’s coach, Edin Terzić, confirmed the setback on Monday, stating, "Haller injured his ankle again unfortunately. He will now have complete rest for a week. There will be a final diagnosis on Saturday to determine the downtime a little more precisely. We assume he won’t be available for two to three weeks.” Haller had previously demonstrated his resilience and scoring prowess by netting a critical goal in Dortmund’s 2-1 defeat at Atlético Madrid in the first leg of the quarterfinals. However, the injury occurred early during Dortmund's Bundesliga victory at Borussia Mönchengladbach this past Saturday. Despite recovering from the same left ankle injury to compete and score in the Africa Cup of Nations final, securing the title for Ivory Coast, Haller faced repeated setbacks. His return to Dortmund's starting lineup on Saturday marked his first league start since mid-September, but he was forced to leave the field in the ninth minute due to the injury. This news comes after Haller courageously returned to professional football last year following his recovery from testicular cancer, marking a significant comeback in his sports career. 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 Unveils "Let's Go to Kenya" Digital Drive to Boost Tourism and Tech Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 1, 2024 ​ Making kenya a leading destination for tourism and technology In a strategic move to promote itself as a leading destination for tourism and technology, the Kenyan government, led by the Ministry of Information Communication and Digital Economy (MoICDE), launched the "Let's Go to Kenya" digital campaign. Collaborating with Konza Technopolis and the ICT Authority, the initiative aims to highlight Kenya's natural beauty, dynamic tech industry, and investment opportunities. During the Nairobi launch, Eng. John Kipchumba Tanui of the State Department for ICT emphasized the campaign's goal to enhance Kenya's image as a top choice for tourists and investors through digital platforms. The campaign will tap into the country's youthful, tech-savvy majority to drive engagement and awareness. Konza Technopolis CEO, John Paul Okwiri, pointed out the campaign's role in showcasing Kenya's tech potential and welcoming tech professionals and investors. The initiative also aligns with the upcoming IASP 2024 World Conference on Science Park, positioning Kenya as an ICT leader in Africa. Partnerships with entities like Kenya Airways, Meta, LinkedIn, Google, and Turkana County-based Startup Lion underscore the collaborative effort to market Kenya globally. This campaign builds on Nairobi's recent acclaim by Lonely Planet as the top city to visit in 2024, underlining the government's commitment to international promotion . 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

Tunisian Lawyer Sonia Dahmani Sentenced to One Year in Prison for Criticizing President Saied Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Jul 10, 2024 Prominent Tunisian lawyer Sonia Dahmani, known for her outspoken criticism of President Kais Saied Sonia Dahmani, a prominent Tunisian lawyer known for her criticism of President Kais Saied, has been sentenced to one year in prison, her legal representative announced on Saturday. Dahmani's sentence is part of what rights organisations describe as a systematic crackdown on critical voices, which they argue is "methodically annihilating" the hard-won freedoms of Tunisia. Dahmani was arrested on May 11 after masked police raided the Tunisian national bar association, where she had sought refuge, detaining her for comments made on television. During a programme on the Carthage Plus TV channel, Dahmani sarcastically questioned the state of the country in response to another pundit's claim that sub-Saharan migrants were seeking to settle in Tunisia. She remarked, "What extraordinary country are we talking about?" Her comments followed a speech by President Kais Saied, who asserted that Tunisia would not become a resettlement destination for sub-Saharan migrants blocked from crossing into Europe. On Saturday, Dahmani's daughter, Nour Bettaieb, revealed on Facebook that her mother had been sentenced to one year in prison under Decree 54 for spreading "rumours" and false news. One of Dahmani's lawyers confirmed the sentence. Decree 54, signed into law by Saied in 2022, outlaws the spreading of false news and has been criticized for being used to suppress dissent. Journalists and rights groups claim the decree stifles criticism as Tunisia approaches presidential elections on October 6. Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch stated on May 30 that the authorities' crackdown is systematically destroying the remaining freedoms in Tunisia. Tunisia, the birthplace of the Arab Spring uprisings in 2011, saw the ousting of former dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. Saied was democratically elected in 2019 but seized extensive powers in a 2021 power grab, subsequently ruling by decree. Since the implementation of Decree 54, over 60 journalists, lawyers, and opposition figures have been prosecuted, according to the National Union of Tunisian Journalists. 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

Kenyans React as Raila Odinga Joins William Ruto for IEBC Amendment Bill Signing: "Good Move" Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 9, 2024 President William Ruto signs the IEBC Amendment Bill and former presidential aspirant Odinga In a significant political development, Azimio leader Raila Odinga joined President William Ruto at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC) for the signing of the IEBC Amendment Bill on Tuesday, July 9. This event also saw the attendance of other prominent Azimio la Umoja leaders, including Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka. Understanding the IEBC Amendment Bill The IEBC Amendment Bill is a legislative measure aimed at restructuring the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) of Kenya. The amendments seek to enhance the transparency, accountability, and efficiency of the electoral body, ensuring fair and credible elections in the future. Key changes include the composition of the commission, appointment processes, and operational frameworks to address past electoral challenges. Reactions from Kenyans Raila Odinga's decision to join President Ruto in signing the bill has elicited mixed reactions from Kenyans. While some have praised the move as a step towards national unity and peace, others have expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of the government's actions. Jay Sparks commented positively, saying, "Yes sir, we want a peaceful country. Let's unite our Kenya." Kennedy Sera echoed this sentiment, simply stating, "Good move." Ken Mugwanga shared his happiness, "Happy to see our leaders coming together for the sake of our nation." Kariuki Carlphineaus emphasized the need for peace and transparency, "Good move...all we want is peace and transparency." On the other hand, some expressed concerns about the government's motivations and the role of the opposition. Metrine Peya remarked, "The government has proven to us that they can only work under pressure and under supervision." Daniel Mokaya questioned the existence of opposition in Kenya, "Does opposition still exist in Kenya?" Godfrey Kiburi acknowledged the political strategy, saying, "The president has played his cards right." The signing of the IEBC Amendment Bill marks a critical moment in Kenya's political landscape, with leaders across the political divide coming together. While the move has been hailed by many as a step towards unity and effective governance, it also raises questions about the future dynamics between the government and the opposition. As Kenya moves forward, the impact of these amendments on the electoral process will be closely watched by citizens and political analysts alike. 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

Russia Pivots to Africa Amidst Western Sanctions with its $2 trillion economy Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Griffith Sarah Jun 7, 2024 President Vladimir Putin alongside African leaders delegates at the second Russia-Africa summit in Saint Petersburg in 2023 Russia is reorienting its $2 trillion economy towards emerging markets like Africa, as showcased at the St Petersburg International Economic Forum. The shift comes in response to Western sanctions following the Ukraine conflict, marking a significant upheaval in Russia's economic relations. Historically, Russia has relied on Western technology and investments . However, the 2022 invasion of Ukraine has compelled President Vladimir Putin to seek alliances in Asia, Africa, and other non-Western regions. Despite the sanctions, Russia's economy remains resilient, with burgeoning ties to countries in Africa and the Middle East. Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa and 45 other foreign dignitaries, including officials from Saudi Arabia, Oman, and the Taliban, are attending the forum. These nations represent new potential investors and partners for Russia. However, substantial investments from these countries have yet to materialize. Bolivian President Luis Arce, who attended the forum, highlighted Bolivia's state-led economic model, emphasizing the potential for shared economic strategies. China's significant presence at the forum, symbolized by Alfa Bank's Chinese dragon stand and the display of Chinese luxury armoured vehicles, underscores Russia's pivot towards Asian markets. Russian officials maintain that this shift is the beginning of a new era in their international relations. While the forum lacks the presence of Western investors and 1990s oligarchs, it highlights the resilience and adaptability of the Russian economy. Despite rising prices and increased defense spending, Russia continues to explore new economic partnerships. African officials expressed optimism about the opportunities presented at the forum. Nebeolisa Anako, a Nigerian official, noted the event's growth and the potential for cooperation with Russia, suggesting that the West might be isolating itself. Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak emphasized that "friendly countries" now receive the majority of Russia's oil exports, with about 70% paid in national currencies. This shift aligns with the forum's theme: "The foundation of a multipolar world is the formation of new points of growth." As Russia continues to navigate the challenges posed by Western sanctions, its engagement with Africa and other non-Western regions marks a strategic pivot towards a multipolar economic future. 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 Accuses UN Refugee Agency of Fabricating Claims in Asylum Case Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jun 12, 2024 ​ Rwanda has accused the United Nations refugee agency of lying during a British court case regarding the deportation of asylum seekers to the country. The Rwandan government claims that the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) misled the court by suggesting that asylum seekers sent to Rwanda could be relocated to countries where they might face torture or death. UNHCR's Allegations On Monday, UNHCR lawyers argued that Rwanda's asylum system was insufficient, raising concerns about the possibility of refoulement—a practice where individuals are sent to countries where they could face serious harm. This argument echoed the UK Supreme Court's previous ruling, which found the British government's deportation plan unlawful. Rwanda's Response Rwanda's government spokesperson released a statement on Tuesday refuting the UNHCR's claims, accusing the agency of fabricating allegations. The spokesperson highlighted the irony of the UNHCR's accusations, noting that the agency collaborates with Rwanda to resettle African migrants from Libya. "UNHCR is lying," The spokesperson stated that cases mentioned by UNHCR involved individuals with legal status elsewhere or those who left Rwanda voluntarily. British Government's Plans Despite the ongoing legal battle, Britain announced that the first flight carrying asylum seekers to Rwanda is scheduled for July 24. However, this plan is contingent on the outcome of the national elections on July 4, with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservatives needing a victory to proceed. The opposition Labour Party, which leads by approximately 20 points in opinion polls, has pledged to cancel the deportation plan if elected. The first flight from the UK to Rwanda is scheduled for July 24, contingent on the Conservative Party winning the national elections on July 4. However, the Labour Party, leading in polls, has promised to cancel the plan if elected. 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

Rich Nations Likely to Fulfill African Donation Requests, World Bank President Forecasts Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe May 2, 2024 ​ World Bank President Ajay Banga World Bank President Ajay Banga has expressed optimism that affluent nations will heed the call from African leaders for record contributions to the International Development Association (IDA), emphasizing that these funds represent not mere charity, but crucial investments in the future. During a pivotal call on Monday, African heads of state appealed for at least $120 billion to be raised for the IDA in an upcoming conference in Japan this December—a sum that would set a new record for the facility that offers long-term loans to developing nations. Historically, the last funding cycle in 2021 garnered $93 billion. To achieve the ambitious new target of $120 billion, donor countries will need to commit about $30 billion, as the World Bank is capable of borrowing three times the amount of money raised. Banga highlighted the importance of this funding mechanism, noting that investing in the IDA has proven beneficial as demonstrated by the economic rise of former recipients like China and India. Over half of the 75 countries that utilize the IDA are in Africa, many of which face significant challenges such as severe debt and climate crises, making access to affordable international financing crucial. These loans are vital for sustaining development and mitigating financial strain caused by global market conditions and environmental disasters. Banga urged rich countries to recognize that supporting the IDA is in their own strategic interest. He pointed out that contributing to Africa's development is an investment in global stability and prosperity. “If Africa develops well, Africa has a lot to offer the world,” he stated, reinforcing the idea that enhancing the economic capabilities of African nations can contribute significantly to global economic diversity and resilience. As the December conference approaches, the world’s wealthiest nations are positioned to make a decisive impact on global development through their financial commitments to the IDA, potentially ushering in a new era of growth and cooperation in international relations. 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

Simi Reveals She Initially Avoided Dating Musicians Before Marrying Adekunle Gold Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Apr 23, 2024 ​ Simi was unaware that Adekunle Gold was pursuing a music career when they first met. Instagram/@lovrweddingsng Nigerian singer Simi has revealed in a recent interview with CNN that she initially had reservations about dating someone within the music industry. Despite these hesitations, she ended up marrying fellow artist Adekunle Gold, a twist she finds both ironic and humorous. Simi shared that when she first met her future husband, she was unaware of his musical aspirations. "I didn't know he was trying to be a singer because I had actually made the choice to never date someone in the industry," Simi explained, laughing. She described Adekunle Gold as the "king of Photoshop" at his then-job, where he was known for his creative edits rather than his singing talents. "Next thing you know, we're dating and I'm getting comfortable," she added. The couple, who got married in a private ceremony at Ilashe beach in 2019 and welcomed their daughter Adejare in 2020, have found a harmonious balance between their personal lives and their careers. Simi emphasized the importance of respecting each other's crafts and maintaining boundaries. "We're very respectful of each other's crafts and opinions as singers. We also think it's important to create boundaries; work is work and I think we've been able to do very good with that," she remarked. This partnership not only highlights their individual talents but also underscores their ability to collaborate and support each other in a competitive industry. 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