MultiChoice Reports 18% Decline in Nigerian Subscribers Amid Economic Downturn Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Jun 14, 2024 ​ MultiChoice has reported a significant decline in its subscriber base, particularly in Nigeria, according to the company's financial results for the year ending March 31, 2024. The report reveals an 18% drop in active subscribers in Nigeria, reflecting the impact of the country's challenging economic conditions. The decrease in subscriptions underscores the shrinking disposable income among Nigerians due to a struggling economy, a sharp decline in the naira, the removal of fuel subsidies, and soaring inflation rates. "The Nigerian economy and consumers faced persistent challenges through FY24 (Fiscal Year)," MultiChoice stated. "The removal of fuel subsidies, sharp currency depreciation with the official naira halving in value, inflation climbing to over 30%, and higher emigration of the middle and upper class drove an 18% YoY decline in active subscribers (FY23: +13%)." The company's Return on Assets (ROA) from Nigeria dropped from 44% to 35%. This decline in the Nigerian subscriber base contributed to a 9% decline in the group's total active subscribers. “The group’s 9% decline in active subscribers was mainly due to a 13% decline in the Rest of Africa business as mass-market customers in countries like Nigeria had to prioritize basic necessities over entertainment, while the South African business showed more resilience with a 5% decline,” MultiChoice added. The reviewed period is noted as the toughest set of macroeconomic conditions for MultiChoice's Rest of Africa (ROA) business since 2016, with high double-digit inflation in many of the group's core markets significantly pressuring customer spending power. "The official and parallel naira exchange rates reached peaks of ₦1600:1USD and ₦1900:1USD respectively in February 2024, with several other African markets also experiencing extreme foreign exchange depreciation," MultiChoice stated. 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

East African Crude Oil Pipeline Set to Create 14,000 Jobs Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 13, 2024 ​ An oil worker in safety gear inspecting a pipeline against the backdrop of East Africa's natural landscape, symbolizing the intersection of industry and environment The imminent commencement of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) project promises to bolster employment in Uganda's burgeoning oil and gas sector. Petroleum Authority of Uganda's Kenneth Peter Bintu revealed an anticipated surge in job opportunities, with the workforce expected to increase from the current 13,067 to 14,000. Remarkably, 90% of these positions are held by Ugandans, underscoring the sector's commitment to local employment. Recent years saw the sector's employment peak at 13,800, but minor reductions occurred due to scaling down of activities. Nonetheless, the EACOP's initiation signals a revitalization, with the project being a collaborative endeavor among the Governments of Uganda and Tanzania, Total Energies, and China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC). Investments totaling $7.1 billion have already been infused into the sector, with Ugandan contracts worth $1.9 billion. This significant financial input highlights the project's substantial economic impact. Local communities, especially in the Bunyoro region, are encouraged to seize this opportunity by acquiring necessary skills and registering with the National Suppliers Database (NSD) to access business prospects in the sector. Last year, 544 local companies received training under the African Development Bank-funded FAPA project, preparing them for participation in oil and gas developments. CNOOC's Eric Jumba emphasized the critical role of quality in securing supply contracts within the sector, indicating a stringent adherence to standards. Current progress includes the advancement of the Kingfisher development project's procurement and construction components, with notable achievements by local company Excel Construction Limited in drilling efforts. As the sector gears up for significant developments, including the construction of the EACOP and the initiation of the Tilenga upstream oil projects, the focus remains on harnessing local potential in health, transport, hospitality, security, and supplies, ensuring broad-based benefits from Uganda's oil and gas resources . 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

Crystal Palace Secure Historic Win Over Manchester United Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond May 7, 2024 ​ At Selhurst Park in London on May 6, 2024, Crystal Palace's Tyrick Mitchell was jubilant as he celebrated with his teammates after scoring the team's third goal against Manchester United. In an unprecedented league match, Crystal Palace defeated Manchester United 4-0 at Selhurst Park, marking their first-ever league double over the Manchester club. Michael Olise was the standout player, netting two goals, while Jean-Philippe Mateta and Tyrick Mitchell each added one to seal the victory. Manchester United, struggling with injuries, fielded a makeshift defence including Casemiro as centre-back. The team's defensive frailties were exploited by a dynamic Palace side, which led to United's downfall in this critical match. The loss leaves Manchester United in eighth place with 54 points from 35 games, jeopardizing their chances for European competition next season. In contrast, Palace's win solidifies their position at 14th in the league with 43 points. The absence of key players like Bruno Fernandes, missing his first match due to injury in his 230-game stint with United, significantly impacted the team's performance. Christian Eriksen of Manchester United expressed disappointment over the match's outcome, acknowledging the team's off-day and the impact of their injury woes. This match adds to the mounting pressures on United's manager, Erik ten Hag, as the team struggles to find form late in the season. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Rwanda's National Carrier Declines UK Proposal for Migrant Removal Flights, Citing Brand Concerns Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 11, 2024 ​ Rwanda air staff In a move highlighting the complexities of international asylum agreements, RwandAir, the national airline of Rwanda, has rejected an offer from the United Kingdom to conduct flights aimed at removing migrants under a new asylum deal. This decision was made amidst apprehensions that participating in such an operation might tarnish the airline's reputation. Despite this setback, the refusal by the airline, a state-owned entity of Rwanda, has not hindered the progression of the UK's asylum strategy. The UK government's approach involves a comprehensive plan to manage irregular migration, with the anticipated "Safety of Rwanda Bill" playing a central role. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has expressed confidence in the bill's ability to address legal challenges and facilitate the commencement of removal flights. Expected to receive final endorsement shortly, this legislation paves the way for a collaborative framework involving multiple operators for the execution of removal flights. In an unexpected twist, the UK's Ministry of Defence (MoD) emerges as a pivotal participant in the asylum program. This partnership raises the possibility of utilizing military aircraft for deportations if commercial agreements falter. The Home Office, maintaining confidentiality regarding specific partnerships, acknowledges the MoD's significant role in the logistical aspects of migrant removals. The decision by RwandAir underscores the sensitivities and potential repercussions for carriers involved in such operations. Previous instances, such as the withdrawal of Mallorca-based Privilege Style from a similar agreement due to activist pressure, illustrate the challenges faced by airlines in balancing business operations with socio-political considerations. With the first removal flights to Rwanda anticipated in the coming months, the UK government may have to rely on its military resources as a contingency plan. This development emphasizes the multifaceted nature of implementing asylum policies, involving not just legal and political dimensions, but also the engagement of various stakeholders, including commercial and military aviation sectors. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

US Urges Rwanda to Halt Support for M23 Rebels and Withdraw Forces from DRC Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Serge Kabongo Feb 5, 2024 ​ Rwandan President H.E Paul Kagame The United States has recently urged Rwanda to halt its backing of the M23 rebel faction and to pull its troops out of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), amid rising tensions. This appeal reflects the US's concerns over Rwanda's alleged support for the M23 rebels, which is seen as a destabilizing factor in the eastern DRC and a hindrance to peace efforts in the region. We once again call on Rwanda to stop supporting the M23 and immediately withdraw the Rwandan Armed Forces from Congolese territory, given that their support for this armed group has only served to further destabilize eastern DRC. The United States has long emphasized that it is paramount that all states respect each other's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Any assertion to the contrary is false" In a related move, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken discussed the ongoing conflict with former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, underscoring the importance of the Nairobi process and regional support in resolving the crisis. Blinken highlighted the need for dialogue and cooperation among regional actors as essential steps toward achieving peace. Adding to the international stance, Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi has maintained a firm position against negotiating with the M23, backed by Rwanda, emphasizing the sovereignty of the DRC. During a diplomatic event, Tshisekedi affirmed the commitment of the DRC's Armed Forces (FARDC) to eradicate the M23 threat. This development is part of a broader international focus on the DRC conflict, with the United Nations also calling for concerted efforts to secure a peaceful resolution. The US's demand for Rwanda to withdraw support and forces from the DRC marks a critical point in the collective endeavor to stabilize the region. The global community watches closely for Rwanda's response, hoping for progress toward peace in the DRC. [actualite] 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

Mohammed Kudus Dazzles with Spectacular Solo Goal in West Ham's Dominant Europa League Victory Over Freiburg Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Mar 15, 2024 ​ Joyful Unison: West Ham United Celebrates a Striking Victory. @MSN In a spectacular display of skill , Mohammed Kudus, the Ghanaian football sensation, scored an unforgettable solo goal during West Ham United’s Europa League clash against Freiburg. The Hammers secured a convincing 5-0 victory , advancing to the quarter-finals. Kudus’s remarkable goal began with him collecting the ball from midfield, embarking on a 70-yard dribble , and calmly slotting a low shot past the keeper . But the magic didn’t end there. After his incredible feat, Kudus celebrated in a unique manner: he borrowed a plastic stool from a stadium steward and sat down in front of his adoring fans. This moment will undoubtedly be etched in West Ham’s history, transcending the economic challenges of the present. 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 Leaders Urge New Strategies in Combatting Violent Extremism Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Apr 22, 2024 ​ Nigerian soldier ready to tackle an extremist sect called boko haram. At a recent security summit held in Lagos, Nigeria, African leaders discussed the urgent need for revitalization of institutions combating violent extremism across the continent. The summit highlighted proposals for a new standby military force and enhanced autonomy in peace-keeping operations. The continent has witnessed a surge in attacks by groups linked to Islamic State and al Qaeda, particularly in regions such as the Sahel, Somalia, and Mozambique. These extremist factions target both civilians and military personnel, significantly destabilizing the region. Togolese President Faure Gnassingbe emphasized the disproportionate impact on the Sahel, noting the increasing threats faced by coastal states, including Togo. “The institutions that have been in place for decades are no longer sufficient to address the current security challenges,” Gnassingbe stated. Moussa Faki, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, presented alarming data at the summit. "In the past year, daily attacks by extremist groups in Africa increased to eight, resulting in an average of 44 fatalities, compared to four attacks and 18 deaths in previous years,” Faki explained. The ongoing violence has not only led to the loss of civilian lives but also fueled military coups across several nations. Amina Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, pointed out that the Sahel alone accounts for half of the global deaths caused by terrorism. This statistic underlines the critical importance of international support and cooperation in addressing these security issues. The departure of 1,500 French troops from Niger last year marked a significant shift in the West’s strategy in the Sahel, especially following the July coup that led to the establishment of a military junta in Niger and the expulsion of French forces. The summit concluded with a unified call for the overhaul of existing security mechanisms and the establishment of robust military capabilities to counteract the growing threat of extremism. Leaders emphasized the need for greater control over peace-keeping efforts and the urgent formation of a coordinated military response. This summit represents a pivotal moment for African nations as they seek to forge a collective path towards stability and security in the face of rising extremism. 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

International Tribunal for Slavery Reparations Gains Momentum Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Griffith Sarah Apr 5, 2024 ​ Africa and Caribbean nations are rallying support for an international tribunal to address the atrocities of the transatlantic slave trade In a historic move, Echoing the judicial precedents set by the Nuremberg trials, this proposed tribunal aims to delve into reparations for centuries of enslavement, apartheid, genocide, and colonialism. This initiative, recommended by the U.N. Permanent Forum on People of African Descent, is gaining traction, reflecting a broader push for slavery reparations. Global Support and Challenges Ahead With backing from the United States for the U.N. panel central to this effort, the proposal has seen growing interest among African and Caribbean regional bodies. Yet, establishing such a tribunal faces significant hurdles, including securing cooperation from nations involved in the slave trade and navigating complex legal waters to identify responsible parties and remedies. Towards an Official History and Reparatory Justice Advocates argue for the necessity of this tribunal to not only establish legal norms for addressing historical grievances but also to create an official historical record acknowledging the lasting impacts of slavery. The U.N. and various nations, including Nigeria and Grenada, have shown support, underlining the importance of addressing the legacies of racism and economic disparities rooted in this dark chapter of history. The Road to Reparations The discussion on reparations is multifaceted, involving potential claimants like descendants of enslaved people and indigenous groups, and defendants possibly including states and institutions linked to slavery. As the movement for reparations gains global momentum, with influential bodies like the African Union and CARICOM at the forefront, the world watches as these efforts strive to right historical wrongs and pave the way for healing and justice . 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

Chike Unveils New Soulful Single "Man Not God" in Anticipation of Upcoming Third Album Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Jun 23, 2024 Award-winning singer Chike is preparing to launch his third album.Instagram:@officialchike Renowned for his distinctive voice in Nigerian music, Chike has captured the hearts of listeners with his captivating blend of RnB, folk, ballad, and Igbo indigenous influences. As he prepares to release his third album, 'Son Of Chike,' the acclaimed artist has unveiled a new, thought-provoking single titled 'Man Not God.' This soul-stirring folk ballad resonates with timeless wisdom and profound introspection, drawing inspiration from Celestine Ukwu's classic 'Ife Si Na Chi.' The haunting melody, enriched by Chike's soulful vocals, creates an intimate atmosphere that invites listeners to deeply reflect on their journeys and the divine influence in their lives. The rich acoustic instrumentation and heartfelt delivery make 'Man Not God' a powerful anthem of humility and faith. Reflecting on the ballad, Chike states: "I came to believe over time that my journey, not just as an artist but as a person, depends on God's say-so. Man tries to play God, maybe to attain a certain level of finality, but I have come to see that the will of man is inconsequential after events play out, and I see how far away from man's will they go. I am confident in my beliefs and think it is okay to challenge imposing thoughts." Through this single from his forthcoming album 'Son of Chike,' Chike pays homage to the past while forging a path forward, reminding us of the grace in embracing our humanity and recognizing the ultimate sovereignty of God's will. 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

Trapped and Desperate: The Plight of Kanyabayonga Residents Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Jun 30, 2024 A young Congolese girl carrying mattress after families displaced by Rwanda-M23 fueled wars in East DRC Rwandan-backed M23 rebels have captured Kanyabayonga, a strategic town in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), causing widespread displacement. The town, crucial for accessing major commercial centers in North Kivu province, now shelters over 60,000 residents and thousands of recent refugees fleeing rebel advances. Local officials confirmed the takeover, describing a desperate situation for those trapped. "They no longer have anywhere to go; it is total desolation," said an anonymous source. The M23 urged residents to stay during a town meeting, promising peace despite ongoing conflict. Fighting between Congolese forces and rebels has intensified, displacing people from nearby areas like Miriki and Kirumba. A youth leader from Kayna reported a night of relentless gunfire, while a civil society leader in Kirumba spoke of panic and uncertainty. The UN Joint Human Rights Office reported increasing civilian displacement and suspended humanitarian aid due to security concerns, leaving the displaced population in dire need. 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

Uganda Faces Hurdles Over Extra Diesel Cargo in Mombasa Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Jul 12, 2024 Mombasa container cargo up 12pc as Dar struggles with congestion Uganda's effort to supply low-cost fuel hit a snag as the country faced unexpected bond fees from Kenya. On July 2, the first batch of petroleum products for the Uganda National Oil Company (Unoc) arrived in Mombasa, only to be met with a $40 million bond fee bill from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), an increase of $25 million due to an extra 17,000 cubic meters of undeclared diesel. Conflicting figures from Ugandan officials before the shipment raised suspicions of smuggling among Kenyan authorities. Shipping documents indicated that Unoc’s cargo exceeded the declared amount, prompting immediate action from Kenya's Cabinet Secretary for Energy, Davis Chirchir. Unoc’s chief corporate affairs officer, Tony Otoa, insisted that the cargo, amounting to 80,000MT, was fully declared. However, a letter from Vitol, Unoc’s import partner, showed a request to KRA to allow in higher volumes than declared, which was rejected. Uganda's Energy Minister, Ruth Nankabirwa, traveled to Kenya twice in four days to negotiate the bond fees, resulting in no changes. Nankabirwa clarified that her trip aimed to thank President William Ruto and discuss future fuel import collaborations, despite earlier statements about the bond fees. Unoc explained that increased orders from oil firms exceeded Uganda's allocated import volume at a planning meeting in May. The Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) system was supposed to prioritize G-2-G transit diesel deliveries alongside Unoc’s first 650,000MT shipment. The ongoing issue has left Ugandan oil marketing companies uncertain about future pump prices, as they await the arrival of Unoc’s products to assess the impact on costs. The increased bond fees and volume discrepancies have complicated Uganda’s fuel import plans, posing challenges to its bid for low-cost fuel supplies. 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

South African Artists Shine at BET Awards Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Jul 2, 2024 Tyla wins big at the BET Awards 2024! The South African singer proudly holds her trophy after being named Best New Artist and Best International Act. South African singer Tyla was one of the big winners at this year's BET Awards, dubbed "culture's biggest night," as she was named Best New Artist and Best International Act. "This is such a gift to be here. I want to dedicate this one to Africa," she said during her acceptance speech for Best New Artist, wearing a slinky black dress. "I want to dedicate this one to all the African superstars before me. Africa to the world!" Tyla's electrifying performance of her hit song "Jump," featuring US rapper Gunna and Jamaican dancehall DJ Skillibeng, captivated the audience. Dancers wearing tiger print bodysuits, a nod to her fanbase she affectionately calls Tygers, opened her act. The performance also included a gigantic elephant statue and performers on stilts. The BET Awards, founded in 2001 by the Black Entertainment Television network, celebrate and honor black and underrepresented people in the entertainment industry. This year's ceremony was held at the Peacock Theatre in California. Makhadzi Wins Viewer’s Choice: Best New International Act Limpopo-born artist Makhadzi also made South Africa proud by winning the Viewer’s Choice: Best New International Act. "I started music from the streets and today I'm here. My dream just came true. I'm just speechless. This is the best birthday ever," she said. She stunned in a fun pink ensemble for the red carpet. Usher Receives Lifetime Achievement Award R&B legend Usher was another highlight of the night, accepting the Lifetime Achievement Award with an emotional speech. Fashion Highlights The BET Awards are also known for showcasing incredible fashion. South African rapper Focalistic, nominated for Best International Act, looked dapper in a red suit. Senegalese-American singer Akon matched the vibe with a similarly striking red ensemble. Support from the Ministry of Sports, Arts, and Culture Newly appointed Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie took to social media to congratulate Tyla and Makhadzi. "Things are happening already, congratulations to both ladies. We want to assure South Africans that we will not be a Ministry content with just congratulating artists and creatives but will go out and unearth more Tylas and Makhadzis. Help us find more future superstars," he said. The success of these South African artists at the BET Awards highlights the country's growing influence in the global music industry. As Tyla said, "Africa to the world!" 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