Africa's Workforce Potential: Skills Development and Strategic Investment Key to Future Growth Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Jul 11, 2024 Entrance of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) building Investment in skills development is crucial for Africa’s growth potential, according to the OECD. As the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) emphasizes, a significant portion of the global workforce will be African by 2050. However, to harness this potential, the continent needs more jobs and strategic investments focused on its greatest asset: its people. Ragnheiour Elin Arnadottir, director of the OECD Development Centre, highlights the need for enhancing skill development to meet these expectations. In a related development, Kenyan President William Ruto has dismissed nearly all his ministers . This drastic move comes as Ruto attempts to manage the repercussions of prolonged anti-government protests. The protests have posed significant challenges to his administration, prompting a comprehensive cabinet reshuffle. Meanwhile, in the Central African Republic, a new competitor has entered the beer market. This new contender is adopting aggressive strategies to capture the attention of local drinkers, marking a dynamic shift in the region’s beverage industry. These developments underscore the diverse and evolving challenges and opportunities across the African continent. Skills development remains a pivotal factor for fut ure growth, while political and economic changes continue to shape the region's landscape. 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

HE Felix Tshisekedi arrived in Doha on a working visit to the country. Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Johnathan Morris Mar 4, 2024 ​ DOHA: President of the Democratic Republic of Congo HE Felix Tshisekedi arrived in Doha on a working visit to the country President Felix Tshisekedi's visit to Doha signifies a momentous occasion, highlighting the Democratic Republic of Congo's (DRC) commitment to fostering stronger ties with Qatar. This diplomatic engagement underscores the potential for collaborative efforts in various sectors that are crucial for the development and prosperity of both nations. The warm welcome extended by Qatari officials at Hamad International Airport exemplifies the mutual respect and camaraderie between the two countries. HE Dr. Ahmed bin Hassan Al Hammadi and HE Valerie Lusamba Kabeya's reception of President Tshisekedi and his delegation underscores the importance Qatar places on its relationship with the DRC. This visit offers a platform for discussing a wide range of topics, including economic cooperation, investment opportunities, and cultural exchanges. The DRC, with its vast natural resources and strategic importance in Africa, presents numerous opportunities for Qatar in sectors such as mining, infrastructure, and renewable energy. Similarly, Qatar's expertise in technology, finance, and development projects can significantly contribute to the DRC's growth and stability. Moreover, the visit could pave the way for enhancing bilateral agreements, leading to increased trade, investment, and cultural exchanges between the two nations. Such engagements are essential for fostering peace, stability, and prosperity in both regions and beyond. The positive dialogue and agreements that could emerge from President Tshisekedi's visit may serve as a model for international cooperation, demonstrating how countries with different backgrounds and strengths can work together for mutual benefits. This visit not only strengthens the diplomatic ties between the DRC and Qatar but also highlights the DRC's openness to engaging with the global community to promote sustainable development and peace. President Tshisekedi's working visit to Doha is a testament to the Democratic Republic of Congo's proactive approach to diplomacy and international cooperation. It signifies a promising step towards enhanced relations with Qatar, potentially leading to significant advancements in economic, cultural, and developmental areas for both 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

Clashes Broke Out After the Meeting of SADC and Burundi Army Chiefs in Congo Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Serge Kabongo Mar 4, 2024 ​ FARDC army Vehicle photo/ Daniel Michombero Renewed clashes have erupted in Masisi territory, DRC, particularly in Mweso and Mabenga, with reports of heavy gunfire since early Monday. This resurgence of violence follows a confrontation on Sunday near Sake, marking a concerning escalation in the region's conflict. The M23 rebel group claims that a coalition, comprising DRC government forces, the Wazalendo rebels, and military units from select SADC countries alongside Burundi, initiated an offensive employing heavy artillery and tanks. This assertion comes in the wake of a strategic assembly of military chiefs from Burundi, the DRC, Malawi, South Africa, and Tanzania in Goma, which concluded with a visit to Mumbamiro, near Sake's central area. Maj. Gen. Sylvain Ekenge, spokesperson for the DRC army, conveyed that the high-ranking officers are set to directly oversee military operations on the ground to bolster ongoing efforts. This move, according to Ekenge, underscores the collective resolve of SADC members and Burundi to collaborate with the DRC in restoring peace to the troubled eastern regions. The latest skirmishes underscore the fragile state of security in eastern DRC, despite regional efforts to stabilize the situation. The involvement of multiple armed factions and the backing of foreign troops in the conflict zones not only complicates the path to peace but also highlights the strategic importance of the area, both politically and geographically. As the situation unfolds, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that brings lasting peace to the region, which has long been marred by violence and instability. The commitment by SADC and Burundi to support the DRC's peace endeavors is a positive step, yet the effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen as the dynamics on the ground evolve. 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 Judge Bars Presidential Candidate from Media and Travel Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 11, 2024 Tunisian Parliament in Session as Judge Imposes Media Ban on Presidential Candidate A Tunisian judge has barred Abd Ellatif Mekki, a potential presidential candidate, from media appearances and traveling, in a move his party claims is aimed at hindering his campaign ahead of the October 6 elections. Opposition parties accuse President Kais Saied's government of using judicial pressure to eliminate rivals, with several candidates, including Abir Moussi, Ghazi Chaouachi, and Lotfi Mraihi, facing legal action for various alleged crimes. Mekki's lawyer, Monia Bouali, confirmed the restrictions and suggested the charges were politically motivated. Saied, who dissolved parliament in 2021, has not yet announced his candidacy but is expected to seek a second term. His supporters deny the allegations, asserting that prosecutions are based on legitimate charges like corruption. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Mali Junta Reauthorises Political Activities Suspended in April Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 11, 2024 Colonel Assimi Goita, head of Mali's military junta, seen with fellow soldiers during a public appearance. The junta has reauthorised political activities that were previously suspended in April amid accusations of subversion. Mali's ruling junta has reauthorised the activities of political parties and political associations that were suspended earlier this year. This suspension, initiated in April, was justified by accusations that political parties were engaging in "sterile discussions" and "subversion." The government, dominated by the military leaders who took power in a 2020 coup, announced the decision on Wednesday. "The government decided to lift the suspension that barred political parties and the activities of political associations," stated the council of ministers. Colonel Assimi Goita, head of the military government , previously defended the suspension, arguing that the political parties' actions posed a danger to an ongoing national "dialogue" concerning Mali's political future. The suspension occurred amid protests from political parties against the junta's decision to extend their stay in power beyond the March 2024 deadline for returning to civilian rule. Despite the boycott from the main parties and what remains of the opposition, the national dialogue proceeded with regime supporters. In May, these supporters recommended that the military remain in power for an additional two to five years and suggested that the current head of the junta be eligible to run in future presidential elections. 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 Dark Legacy of Paul Kagame: Unmasking the Hidden Crimes in the Congo Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond Jun 21, 2024 President Paul Kagame,accused of committing genocide in Congo For decades, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has endured conflicts influenced by regional power dynamics. Rwandan President Paul Kagame is accused of direct military involvement and supporting rebel groups like M23, which have committed atrocities, including war crimes, in the DRC.​ ( The Nation )​​ ( Human Rights Watch )​​ ( Oxford Academic )​. Kagame's Military Involvement in DRC Since the 1994 Rwandan Genocide, Rwanda's involvement in the DRC has been contentious. Under Kagame's leadership, the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) led operations in the DRC, resulting in the first and second Congo Wars. These invasions were marked by human rights abuses, including massacres, rapes, and exploitation of mineral resources​ ( The Nation )​​ ( Human Rights Watch )​. Support for Rebel Groups Kagame's regime is accused of backing the M23 rebels, known for brutal tactics in the eastern DRC. Human Rights Watch has documented civilian casualties and destruction attributed to M23, reportedly supported by the Rwandan military through arms, training, and direct involvement​ ( Human Rights Watch )​. War Crimes and Genocide Allegations Reports by the United Nations and other international bodies have highlighted Rwanda's role in the DRC conflicts. The UN Mapping Report of 2010 accused Rwandan forces and their allies of committing crimes against humanity and war crimes, with some actions potentially amounting to genocide. These findings stem from systematic massacres of Hutu refugees and Congolese civilians, as well as the strategic exploitation of the DRC's rich mineral resources​ ( Oxford Academic ). The FARDC (Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo) has been making significant strides in combating Kagame's troops aka M23 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Recent reports indicate that the FARDC and Wazalendo and the deployment of advanced weaponry, have managed to inflict substantial casualties on the Rwandan Army (Rwanda Defence Forces). This includes the use of sophisticated weapons such as drones and heavy artillery, which have proven effective in countering the rebel forces. The FARDC's efforts, alongside WAZALENDO (Patriots Fighter), have been crucial in stabilizing the situation and protecting civilians 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

Rwanda Refuses to Reimburse $300 Million from UK Deportation Deal Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 10, 2024 Rwandan President Paul Kagame and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the center of the controversial deportation deal dispute Rwanda Hints It Won’t Reimburse $300 Million UK Paid for Deportation Deal After New British PM Says He’ll Ditch Agreement The Rwandan government has indicated that it will not reimburse the more than $300 million received from the United Kingdom since 2022 for a contentious deal to deport asylum seekers deemed to have arrived illegally in the UK to Rwanda. A spokesperson for the Rwandan government, Alain Mukuralinda, stated on Tuesday that the agreement with the UK did not include any “clause regarding reimbursement” following the newly-elected British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s announcement to scrap the controversial agreement. Mukuralinda emphasized in a video posted by the state-owned Rwanda Broadcasting Agency that the signed international agreement did not stipulate the money would be refunded. CNN has reached out to the UK Home Office for comments on the matter . The UK has given Rwanda £240 million (around $307 million) as part of the deal, according to a fact sheet published by the British government in April this year. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, during his first press conference on Saturday, labeled the scheme a “gimmick” and stated he was “not prepared to continue” with it, denying that the bill served as an effective deterrent. Initially announced in April 2022 by the then Conservative government under Prime Minister Boris Johnson, the plan faced numerous political and legal challenges, with lawmakers and activists condemning it on human rights grounds. Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak defended the plan, claiming it aimed to deter vulnerable migrants from making perilous crossings and to disrupt the business model of criminal gangs exploiting them. The bill was heavily criticized by UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi, who argued that it undermined international cooperation and set a worrying global precedent by shifting responsibility for refugee protection. Amnesty International UK also condemned the plan, calling it a “stain on this country’s moral reputation” that undermined international legal protections for vulnerable people. Rwanda’s refusal to reimburse the funds raises ethical concerns about the country’s commitment to international agreements and the exploitation of such deals for financial gain. The lack of a reimbursement clause in the agreement further complicates the issue, highlighting potential oversight or negligence during the negotiation process. As the UK reevaluates its stance on this controversial deal, Rwanda’s rigid position casts a shadow over its diplomatic relations and accountability on the international stage. 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

NBA to Launch First Basketball School in Africa in January 2025 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Jun 24, 2024 Young athletes practice their skills at a Jr. NBA event, highlighting the upcoming launch of the first NBA Basketball School in Africa, set to open in January 2025 at Uppingham School Cairo in New Giza. Credit:gettyimages NBA Africa and New Era Education, a Cairo-based educational services and school management company, have announced the launch of the first NBA Basketball School in Africa. Set to open in January 2025, the school will be located at Uppingham School Cairo in New Giza. The initiative aims to train young basketball prospects and promote the sport across the continent. Amadou Gallo Fall, President of the Basketball Africa League, reiterated the NBA's commitment to nurturing African talent during his visit to France for the Quai 54 streetball tournament. "We want to continue to develop top talents on the continent through partnerships like the NBA Academy and our Elevate program, which is producing elite talent," Fall stated. He emphasized the importance of building value in African talent and retaining some of it within the continent. "We want Africa to be recognized not only as a place where talent is discovered but also where it is cultivated and appreciated," he added. The NBA Basketball School at Uppingham School Cairo will cater to youth aged 5-18, building on the league’s previous initiatives in Cairo, including the last three Basketball Africa League Nile Conference group phases and Jr. NBA programs. Since 2017, NBA Basketball Schools have been established in various countries, including Australia, Brazil, China, the Dominican Republic, Greece, India, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Lithuania, Mexico, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates, and Uruguay. NBA Africa, an affiliate of the US National Basketball Association (NBA), continues to expand its footprint on the continent, aiming to inspire and develop the next generation of basketball players . 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

Unveiling the Shadows of Conflict: The Role of RDF in Supporting M23 and the Formation of Wazalendo in the DRC Crisis - Download the January 2024 UN Report for In-depth Insights Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Erin Brewer Jan 3, 2024 ​ The UN report delves into the complex situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), focusing on the M23 rebel group and the alleged support it receives from the Rwandan Defense Force (RDF). It details the sources of information for these claims, including aerial images and testimonials. The report also addresses Rwanda's alleged involvement in the conflict, the role of the FDLR (Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda), and the formation of the Wazalendo coalition and Volontaires pour la défense de la Patrie (VDP) to combat the M23 rebels. For a comprehensive understanding and in-depth analysis of these significant issues, it is recommended to download and read the full report here . N2336438 .pdf Download PDF • 8.83MB 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 Trade Surplus with African Nations Soars to Ksh164 Billion ($1.22billions) in 2023 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 15, 2024 ​ Reports indicate kenya's economic dominance in Africa to be one of the highest Kenya's trade balance with African nations reached an unprecedented surplus of Ksh164.04 billion ($1.22 billion) in 2023, marking a significant milestone in the country's economic relations within the continent. According to provisional data from the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), the surge in exports to Ksh431.89 billion ($3.22 billion) signifies a robust 22.99% growth compared to the previous year. This leap was fueled by heightened demand for key exports including cement clinkers, lubricants, wheat flour, food preparations, and kerosene-type jet fuel, primarily to nations such as Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Tanzania, Egypt, Somalia, and South Sudan. In stark contrast, import expenditure saw a marginal increase of 0.31% to Ksh267.86 billion ($2 billion), showcasing the most modest rise since the 2020 downturn attributed to the pandemic. This development nearly doubled Kenya's trade surplus with its African counterparts from Ksh84.13 billion in the preceding year, underscoring the nation's thriving trade dynamics. A Push for Market Integration The impressive trade surplus aligns with President William Ruto's vigorous advocacy for the elimination of trade barriers within Africa. His administration emphasizes the integration of regional trading blocs, aiming to foster the movement of goods, services, and labor across the continent. The African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) stands at the core of these efforts, aspiring to establish a vast single market comprising approximately 1.4 billion people and an economic output exceeding $3 trillion. Innovating Trade through Technology President Ruto also champions the adoption of a payment system that enables the settlement of intra-African trade transactions in local currencies. This initiative seeks to diminish the continent's dependency on the US dollar, thereby simplifying trade processes. " Technology will be instrumental in ensuring our traders are not bogged down by currency exchanges, allowing them to focus on boosting trade across our nations," Ruto stated in November last year. Looking Ahead As Kenya continues to lead by example in enhancing intra-African trade, the focus on technological innovation and regional integration heralds a new era of economic prosperity for the continent. 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

Anthony Joshua vs Francis Ngannou:"Joshua's Second-Round Thunderous Knockout win at Riyadh Showdown Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 9, 2024 ​ An explosive right hand sent Ngannou reeling, leading to the referee's Intervention and calling an end to the contest at the showdown In an electrifying bout in Saudi Arabia, British heavyweight Anthony Joshua delivered a stunning performance, securing a second-round knockout victory against former UFC champion Francis Ngannou. The match, highly anticipated by fans worldwide, saw Joshua, at 34, showcase his prowess and strategic acumen, reaffirming his status in the heavyweight division. From the onset, Joshua's intent was clear. He floored Ngannou in the initial round and continued his dominance into the second. An explosive right hand sent Ngannou reeling, leading to the referee intervening and calling an end to the contest. Ngannou, 37, visibly shaken by the power of Joshua's punch, required medical attention post-fall, highlighting the match's intensity. Joshua's victory was witnessed by none other than WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, adding a layer of intrigue given Fury's previous challenging encounter with Ngannou. Joshua's post-fight remarks hinted at respect for Ngannou's capabilities and an openness to future challenges within the boxing domain, further fueling speculations abou t potential matchups . This win marks Joshua's fourth victory in 11 months, a testament to his relentless pursuit of reclaiming a world title. The event also drew attention to the promotional prowess of Eddie Hearn, who has been instrumental in Joshua's career. Hearn's post-fight comments suggest ambitious plans for Joshua, eyeing a matchup with the winner of the forthcoming bout between Fury and Oleksandr Usyk for the undisputed heavyweight championship. The fight not only showcased Joshua's technical growth as a boxer but also highlighted his mental preparation and strategic planning. His ability to maintain composure under pressure and execute a game plan flawlessly was evident from the first bell. The knockout serves as a powerful statement in the heavyweight division and sets the stage for intriguing future contests. As Joshua looks ahead, the boxing world watches with bated breath for his next move. With potential high-stakes matches on the horizon, Joshua's career trajectory remains a focal point for fans and analysts alike, promising more thrilling encounters in the ring. 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

Burna Boy Secures Spot on Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People in 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Apr 17, 2024 ​ Burna Boy Featured Among Icons in Time Magazine's 2024 List of 100 Most Influential Individuals. Photo:GettyImages Angelique Kidjo, the multi-Grammy-winning songstress, has authored a heartfelt homage to fellow musician Burna Boy, following his inclusion in Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People of 2024. The esteemed Beninese artist lauded the Nigerian Afro-fusion sensation, recognizing him as an artist who has carved out a historical legacy and serves as an inspiration for Africa’s youth. In her tribute, Kidjo reflected on her advice to young African artists, urging them to embrace the richness of African traditions instead of emulating American artists. She noted the global influence of African music, calling it an unfailing source of inspiration with the power to captivate the world. Burna Boy, according to Kidjo, has actualized this vision on the global stage. Drawing inspiration from the powerful rhythms of Nigerian folk music and honing his craft in the tradition of Africa’s great singer-songwriters, he walks in the giant strides of Fela Kuti, the iconic Afrobeats pioneer and activist. Kidjo highlighted Burna Boy's unique style and rhythmic groove, which have led him to a succession of groundbreaking achievements. In 2023, he was the first African artist to headline and sell out a stadium show in the United States. In 2024, he became the first Afrobeats performer to take the stage at the Grammy Awards. Burna Boy's influence extends beyond music, as he stands as a historical figure shaping a new generation of African youth. Since his international breakthrough in 2018, Burna Boy has emerged as one of the world’s leading musicians. His 2019 Grammy-nominated album 'African Giant' included a collaboration with Kidjo and Damian Marley on the track 'Different'. Furthermore, Kidjo and Burna Boy joined forces on her Grammy-nominated song 'Do Yourself' in 2021. Out of a diverse list of luminaries, Burna Boy stands as the sole African artist named in Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People of 2024, signifying his remarkable impact on music and culture. 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