Presidents Tshisekedi and Ndayishimiye renewed calls for African-led solutions, regional security cooperation, and stronger responses to Ebola. Democratic Republic of Congo President Félix Tshisekedi and Burundi President Évariste Ndayishimiye have renewed their call for African-led responses to the continent's challenges, emphasizing unity, solidarity, and stronger regional cooperation during the Burundian leader's two-day State Visit to Kinshasa. Speaking at a joint press conference marking the end of the visit, the two leaders stressed that Africa must take greater ownership of its future as it confronts security threats, health crises, climate change, economic pressures, and the aspirations of a rapidly growing youth population. "We reaffirmed our common attachment to African solutions to African problems," President Tshisekedi declared. The Congolese leader said discussions focused on strengthening cooperation between the two countries in several strategic sectors, including infrastructure, regional security, and public health. He also praised President Ndayishimiye , who currently serves as Chairperson of the African Union, for his commitment to peace and stability across the continent. A Shared Vision for Africa According to Tshisekedi, the challenges facing Africa require more than isolated national responses. "The health challenges confronting Africa call for greater solidarity among states, stronger regional cooperation, and continuous mobilization of continental prevention and early-warning mechanisms," he said. The two presidents argued that Africa must speak with greater coherence, act with greater solidarity, and defend its strategic interests more firmly on the international stage. Their message comes at a time when many African countries are grappling with humanitarian crises, economic uncertainty, climate-related disasters, and growing demands for jobs and opportunities from young people. Security Remains a Top Priority Continue Reading Full Article POLITICS & DIPLOMACY Tshisekedi and Ndayishimiye Renew Call for African Solutions By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Jun 23, 2026 Jun 23, 2026 5 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Democratic Republic of Congo President Félix Tshisekedi and Burundi President Évariste Ndayishimiye have renewed their call for African-led responses to the continent's challenges, emphasizing unity, solidarity, and stronger regional cooperation during the Burundian leader's two-day State Visit to Kinshasa. Speaking at a joint press conference marking the end of the visit, the two leaders stressed that Africa must take greater ownership of its future as it confronts security threats, health crises, climate change, economic pressures, and the aspirations of a rapidly growing youth population. "We reaffirmed our common attachment to African solutions to African problems," President Tshisekedi declared. The Congolese leader said discussions focused on strengthening cooperation between the two countries in several strategic sectors, including infrastructure, regional security, and public health. He also praised President Ndayishimiye , who currently serves as Chairperson of the African Union, for his commitment to peace and stability across the continent. A Shared Vision for Africa According to Tshisekedi, the challenges facing Africa require more than isolated national responses. "The health challenges confronting Africa call for greater solidarity among states, stronger regional cooperation, and continuous mobilization of continental prevention and early-warning mechanisms," he said. ADVERTISEMENT The two presidents argued that Africa must speak with greater coherence, act with greater solidarity, and defend its strategic interests more firmly on the international stage. Their message comes at a time when many African countries are grappling with humanitarian crises, economic uncertainty, climate-related disasters, and growing demands for jobs and opportunities from young people. Security Remains a Top Priority While the leaders discussed continental issues, security in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo remained at the center of their talks. The region continues to face instability caused by armed groups, creating one of the world's largest humanitarian crises and displacing millions of civilians. At the conclusion of the visit, officials described security as the dominant theme of the bilateral discussions. "The key word is security," a moderator noted at the end of the press conference. "Both heads of state are mobilizing their efforts for security in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo." ADVERTISEMENT Burundi has emerged as one of Kinshasa's closest security partners in recent years, with Burundian forces supporting efforts to combat armed groups operating near the shared border. Regional Support for the Ebola Response The discussions also touched on the ongoing Ebola outbreak in Ituri Province, where Congolese authorities have intensified response efforts. President Ndayishimiye used the occasion to encourage countries to keep their borders open to the Democratic Republic of Congo while maintaining health screening measures. Health experts participating in the briefing explained that Ebola can be effectively monitored through temperature checks and basic health controls at border crossings, reducing the need for blanket restrictions. The message was welcomed by officials leading the response, who stressed the importance of regional cooperation in preventing panic and unnecessary isolation. Tshisekedi to Visit Ituri One of the major announcements from the press conference was President Tshisekedi's decision to travel to Ituri Province, including the affected areas of Mongwalu and Bunia. Trending Now Kenya, China Sign Deal for 80 Off-Grid Solar Systems . Energy and Power Kenya Ebola: Five Patients Discharged, 52 Contacts Monitored . Public Health Alerts DRC Opens London Forum Seeking Partnerships, Not Aid . | Economy Kenya's Rironi–Naivasha Highway: 90% Earthworks, December Target . Transport and Logistics Popular Today | Economy DRC Opens London Forum Seeking Partnerships, Not Aid . Justice & Crime Trump Moves to Remove Rwanda and South Africa From AGOA . Justice & Crime Rwanda Accused of Deporting Congolese Civilians in South Kivu . Scholarships Russia Confirms 100 Scholarships for Congolese Students . Patriotism Tshisekedi Urges Congolese in Russia to Be DRC Ambassadors . ADVERTISEMENT The visit is intended to support health workers and communities battling the outbreak while demonstrating the government's commitment to ending the crisis. Health Minister Roger Kamba reported that response efforts are beginning to show results, with more patients seeking treatment earlier and a growing number of recoveries being recorded. "We now have a very solid and robust response on the ground," Kamba said. Government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya added that authorities are fighting not only the disease itself but also misinformation surrounding the outbreak. "One of the fronts is disinformation," Muyaya said. "Today we are seeing that some of those participating in these campaigns no longer hide. But the government remains fully mobilized." According to officials, increased public awareness has helped improve trust in health services and contributed to a rise in testing and treatment. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles | Economy DRC Opens London Forum Seeking Partnerships, Not Aid DR Congo opens a UK investment forum in London with nearly 90 British investors, seeking partnerships . Justice & Crime Trump Moves to Remove Rwanda and South Africa From AGOA Trump plans to remove Rwanda and South Africa from AGOA trade benefits starting January 1, 2027 . Justice & Crime Rwanda Accused of Deporting Congolese Civilians in South Kivu South Kivu accuses Rwandan forces and M23 of forcibly displacing civilians in Katogota, . Scholarships Russia Confirms 100 Scholarships for Congolese Students Russia confirms 100 government scholarship places for Congolese students, reaffirming education . Tags DR.Congo DR.Congo Burundi Burundi Evariste Ndayishimiye Evariste Ndayishimiye Felix Tshisekedi Felix Tshisekedi

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How to check your SARS tax refund status online via eFiling, the SARS MobiApp, WhatsApp and USSD using official SARS channels. If you filed a South African tax return and think SARS owes you money, you do not have to sit and guess. The South African Revenue Service publishes official ways to check your tax refund status online and on your phone. This is a practical how-to, based on current SARS pages. Your situation can change the timeline. A refund is not guaranteed, and SARS does not pay every return in the same way. If you still need to sign in, XTRAfrica also has a SARS eFiling login guide . How to check your SARS tax refund status SARS says you can use these digital channels: SARS eFiling, including your Income Tax Statement of Account The SARS MobiApp, including a Refund Status option on the Home Screen SARS WhatsApp on 0800 11 7277 SARS USSD by dialling 134 7277# The Tax Return Status Dashboard on the SARS Online Query System (SOQS) , eFiling, and the MobiApp Continue Reading Full Article TAX AND REVENUE How to Check Your SARS Tax Refund Status Online By The Editorial Staff Public Services The Editorial Staff Home Comment Aug 27, 2026 Aug 27, 2026 11 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: If you filed a South African tax return and think SARS owes you money, you do not have to sit and guess. The South African Revenue Service publishes official ways to check your tax refund status online and on your phone. This is a practical how-to, based on current SARS pages. Your situation can change the timeline. A refund is not guaranteed, and SARS does not pay every return in the same way. If you still need to sign in, XTRAfrica also has a SARS eFiling login guide . How to check your SARS tax refund status SARS says you can use these digital channels: SARS eFiling, including your Income Tax Statement of Account The SARS MobiApp, including a Refund Status option on the Home Screen SARS WhatsApp on 0800 11 7277 SARS USSD by dialling 134 7277# The Tax Return Status Dashboard on the SARS Online Query System (SOQS) , eFiling, and the MobiApp Use only official SARS channels. Do not follow a random SMS or email link. Check through SARS eFiling SARS says you can see a refund amount and refund payment date on eFiling. Look at your Income Tax Statement of Account (ITSA) . SARS says: The amount, if it is a refund, appears in the Transaction value column The date next to Electronic refund is the date SARS says the amount will be paid into your bank account If you owe SARS instead, the payment due date is on your Notice of Assessment (ITA34) , under Details. See the official FAQ: Can I see my refund amount and payment date on eFiling? SARS also launched a Tax Return Status Dashboard . It gives a visual status of a Personal Income Tax return after submission, covering: Return submission Verification or audit Refund processing Outstanding supporting documents SARS says this dashboard is available on SOQS, eFiling, and the MobiApp, so you should not need to phone the Contact Centre or visit a branch just to check progress. Read Launched - Tax Return Status Dashboard . For a broader walkthrough of eFiling, see XTRAfrica's SARS eFiling Guide 2026 . ADVERTISEMENT Check using the SARS MobiApp On 28 July 2025, SARS said you can check refund status on the MobiApp like this: Open the SARS MobiApp On the Home Screen, tap Refund Status Follow the prompts You can download the app from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei AppGallery by searching for SARS MobiApp. SARS says you need a valid eFiling username and password, and a supported phone. The MobiApp also has a Tax Return Status Dashboard. SARS's MobiApp guide says you can open it from the Home page (before login), choose whether you are checking for yourself, a client, or as a registered representative, pick the tax year, then verify with an OTP. Lwazi, the SARS assistant on eFiling and the MobiApp, can also handle a Request Refunds Status query. SARS says the status may show on the Lwazi page, and some requests are emailed to you. Full MobiApp services are listed in the Guide to Services offered via the SARS MobiApp . Other official SARS channels SARS also lists these options on How to check your tax refund status : WhatsApp: message 0800 11 7277. SARS says to say Hi or Hello, select Refund Status, enter your ID, passport or Asylum Seeker number, provide your tax reference number, then send. USSD: dial 134 7277#. Choose option 3, enter your ID, passport or Asylum Seeker number, then send. SOQS: use the Tax Return Status Dashboard query. SARS says this is for Personal Income Tax, and it is currently limited to the current and previous financial years. ADVERTISEMENT What your refund status means SARS does not publish one public list of every possible status word. What it does say is: The dashboard shows where your return sits in submission, verification or audit, refund processing, and whether supporting documents are still outstanding The ITSA Electronic refund date is the date SARS says the refund should reach your bank account If you were auto-assessed and a refund is due, and you agree with the assessment, SARS says the refund is paid into your bank account automatically. You do not have to accept the auto-assessment first. See Filing Season . If your screen shows a verification or audit, a refund is usually held until that process is finished. Why your SARS refund may be delayed SARS aims, in its Service Charter, to pay nine out of every ten taxpayer refunds due within 72 hours, if the refund is more than R100. That is a target, not a promise for every case. The 72-hour clock starts when the assessment has been completed, and only if: The refund is more than R100 Your banking details are correct You have no debt or outstanding returns No inspection, verification or audit is required or has been started SARS lists these delay reasons in What could delay my refund from being paid to me? (updated 20 July 2026): Incorrect banking details. If bank details are sent for verification, that can take up to 21 business days from when SARS has all required supporting documents. After that, SARS says the refund should be paid within 72 hours Income tax return selected for verification: up to 21 business days from when complete supporting documents are received, then 72 hours for the refund Several tax years submitted and selected for audit verification: verification finalised within 90 business days from when complete supporting documents are received for all those years Return selected for audit: up to 90 business days from receipt of complete, correct supporting documents, unless SARS tells you otherwise, then 72 hours for the refund Outstanding returns: the refund is not paid until those returns are submitted Outstanding tax debt: SARS may take money from the refund to pay the debt first, then pay any leftover credit XTRAfrica has a related explainer: SARS Refund Delayed? 7 Reasons and What to Do . What to do if your refund has not arrived Work through the official checks, in this order: Check refund status again on the MobiApp, WhatsApp, USSD, eFiling ITSA, or the Tax Return Status Dashboard. Confirm your banking details. SARS says you can update bank details on the MobiApp under profile or banking details. Wrong bank details are a common delay. If SARS asked for supporting documents, upload them on the MobiApp or SOQS. SARS lists file rules such as a 5 MB limit per file and formats including PDF and JPG. Submit any outstanding returns. SARS will not pay a refund while returns are outstanding. If you still cannot resolve it on a digital channel, SARS says you can book an appointment rather than arriving at a branch without one. Do not send your eFiling password, OTP, or banking PIN to anyone who contacts you first. SARS refund safety and scam warning Refund scams are common. SARS has warned about SMS and email messages that claim you have a refund, or that a refund is under audit, then send you to a fake website. Trending Now Kenya, China Sign Deal for 80 Off-Grid Solar Systems . Energy and Power Kenya Ebola: Five Patients Discharged, 52 Contacts Monitored . Public Health Alerts DRC Opens London Forum Seeking Partnerships, Not Aid . | Economy Kenya's Rironi–Naivasha Highway: 90% Earthworks, December Target . Transport and Logistics Popular Today Tax and Revenue How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return . Tax and Revenue How to Check if SARS Owes You a Refund . Tax and Revenue How to Update Your Banking Details With SARS . Tax and Revenue How to Get Your SARS Tax Number Online . Tax and Revenue SARS Auto Assessment 2026: How to Check and What to Do . ADVERTISEMENT SARS says: It will never request passwords, OTPs, banking PINs, or eFiling login details by email, SMS, social media, or telephone It will never send you hyperlinks to other websites Do not open or reply to emails from unknown sources Beware of messages that ask for personal, tax, banking, or eFiling details If you are unsure, use only official SARS digital channels, and email phishing@sars.gov.za . See Scams and Phishing and the refund-under-audit scam alert . Frequently asked questions How long does SARS take to pay a refund? SARS aims to pay nine out of ten refunds due within 72 hours if the refund is more than R100. That clock starts only after the assessment is done, and only if your bank details are correct, you have no debt or outstanding returns, and you are not in inspection, verification, or audit. Can I see the payment date on eFiling? Yes. SARS says the Electronic refund date on the Income Tax Statement of Account is the date the amount will be paid into your bank account. I was auto-assessed. Do I still check status? If you agree with the auto-assessment and a refund is due, SARS says it is paid automatically. If you need to correct the assessment, submit an updated return on eFiling or the MobiApp. Why is my refund stuck after I uploaded documents? SARS gives different timeframes once it has all required documents: up to 21 business days for many verifications, and up to 90 business days for audits or multi-year verification. After that process ends, SARS says the refund should follow within 72 hours, if you still meet the other conditions. Key takeaway Check a SARS tax refund on official channels only: eFiling, the MobiApp, WhatsApp 0800 11 7277, USSD 134 7277#, or the Tax Return Status Dashboard. The 72-hour target does not apply if your bank details are wrong, returns or debt are outstanding, or SARS is verifying or auditing your return. Ignore refund links in SMS or email. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tax and Revenue How to Check if You Must Submit a SARS Tax Return Use the official SARS checker and 2026 rules to see if you must file an ITR12. . Tax and Revenue How to Check if SARS Owes You a Refund Use your ITA34 and Statement of Account to see if SARS owes you, or if you owe SARS. . Tax and Revenue How to Update Your Banking Details With SARS Change your SARS bank account on eFiling or the MobiApp, then confirm with an OTP. . Tax and Revenue How to Get Your SARS Tax Number Online Get a new SARS tax number or recover a forgotten one on eFiling, SOQS, USSD, WhatsApp or SMS. . Tags SARS Updates SARS Updates South Africa Gov Services South Africa Gov Services

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Discover the top 8 most visited African Indian Ocean islands in 2025, from Zanzibar to Seychelles, each with unique culture, beaches and vibes. The Indian Ocean isn’t only about the Maldives. Along Africa’s eastern rim you’ll find islands that fuse Swahili , Arab and European history with landscapes straight off a screensaver. Here’s your 2025 insider guide to the region’s most‑visited islands and what sets each one apart. Pack your sense of humour and be ready to hop between dhow‑whispered harbours, spice farms and marine‑park coral gardens. 1. Zanzibar (Unguja), Tanzania Vibe: Swahili‑Arab romance meets beach‑party energy. After a Serengeti safari, this is where travellers come to decompress and dance. What makes it special: Unguja (commonly called Zanzibar) has done more for East African tourism than any other island. Stone Town’s labyrinthine alleys and ornate, brass‑stud doors testify to centuries of Arab, Persian and European trading . The World Heritage‑listed quarter exudes a melting‑pot culture that Travel Noire’s 2025 jury praised for blending Arab, Swahili, Indian and European influences. On the coast you’ll find powder‑white beaches perfect for swimming or kitesurfing and a spectrum of accommodations, from breezy bungalows to flashy resorts . Tourism accounts for about 30 % of the region’s GDP and recent investments in hotels and infrastructure mean the island welcomes ever‑growing numbers of visitors so come soon before your secret becomes everyone’s. The island is easy to reach via Zanzibar City’s international airport. Stone Town’s narrow lanes are made for wandering; pack modest clothing to respect the local Muslim culture. For the full spice experience, join a tour of a clove farm and finish with sundowners at a beach bar. Social vibe: As one traveller captioned their aerial video on Twitter in September 2025: “White Paradise, Zanzibar. A must visit.” Expect to hear similar gushes from fellow holidaymakers. 2. Pemba Island, Tanzania Continue Reading Full Article TRAVEL GUIDE Top 8 most visited islands on Africa’s Indian Ocean coast By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Oct 2, 2025 May 15, 2026 13 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Indian Ocean isn’t only about the Maldives. Along Africa’s eastern rim you’ll find islands that fuse Swahili , Arab and European history with landscapes straight off a screensaver. Here’s your 2025 insider guide to the region’s most‑visited islands and what sets each one apart. Pack your sense of humour and be ready to hop between dhow‑whispered harbours, spice farms and marine‑park coral gardens. 1. Zanzibar (Unguja), Tanzania Vibe: Swahili‑Arab romance meets beach‑party energy. After a Serengeti safari, this is where travellers come to decompress and dance. Zanzibar’s spice-scented shores and Stone Town’s heritage meet turquoise waters a timeless Indian Ocean escape. What makes it special: Unguja (commonly called Zanzibar) has done more for East African tourism than any other island. Stone Town’s labyrinthine alleys and ornate, brass‑stud doors testify to centuries of Arab, Persian and European trading . The World Heritage‑listed quarter exudes a melting‑pot culture that Travel Noire’s 2025 jury praised for blending Arab, Swahili, Indian and European influences. On the coast you’ll find powder‑white beaches perfect for swimming or kitesurfing and a spectrum of accommodations, from breezy bungalows to flashy resorts . Tourism accounts for about 30 % of the region’s GDP and recent investments in hotels and infrastructure mean the island welcomes ever‑growing numbers of visitors so come soon before your secret becomes everyone’s. The island is easy to reach via Zanzibar City’s international airport. Stone Town’s narrow lanes are made for wandering; pack modest clothing to respect the local Muslim culture. For the full spice experience, join a tour of a clove farm and finish with sundowners at a beach bar. Social vibe: As one traveller captioned their aerial video on Twitter in September 2025: “White Paradise, Zanzibar. A must visit.” Expect to hear similar gushes from fellow holidaymakers. 2. Pemba Island, Tanzania Untouched reefs and lush spice farms make Pemba Island Tanzania’s secret paradise for divers and explorers Vibe: Rustic, green and blissfully under‑touristed perfect for divers and anyone seeking off‑grid tranquillity. What makes it special: Pemba sits north of Zanzibar and feels a world away from Unguja’s bustle. Discover Africa describes its gentle hills, deserted beaches and aromatic clove plantations . Traditional dhows and mtumbwi boats still glide along the coast, and spice farms supply much of the world’s cloves . The island’s coral reefs are among the Indian Ocean’s most pristine, luring divers with turquoise drop‑offs and abundant marine life. Accommodation ranges from eco‑lodges tucked into mangroves to luxurious beach resorts; whichever you choose, you’ll likely wake to nothing but birdsong and the call to prayer. ADVERTISEMENT Practical notes: Access is via a short flight from Dar es Salaam or a ferry from Zanzibar. Visitors should bring cash (ATMs are scarce) and prepare for slower travel roads are rough and schedules fluid. Diving and snorkeling packages can be booked through local operators; plan for higher prices than on the mainland due to transport costs. 3. Mafia Island, Tanzania Vibe: Low‑key Robinson Crusoe hideaway where fishermen outnumber tourists. Swim with whale sharks and explore pristine marine parks on Tanzania’s quiet Mafia Island. What makes it special: National Geographic calls Mafia a “low‑key alternative to Zanzibar” with soft sands, traditional fishing villages and a marine park that protects one of East Africa’s richest reefs . Between October and March whale sharks cruise just off its western coast, offering some of Africa’s most reliable opportunities to swim with these gentle giants Inland, tiny villages smell of mango and coconut; at night, kerosene lamps dot the shoreline. Tourism infrastructure is limited, so expect small guesthouses and eco‑lodges rather than mega‑resorts. Practical notes: Flights from Dar es Salaam land at Mafia’s tiny airstrip. The marine park requires an entry fee (about US$20/day), which helps fund conservation. Respect local customs cover shoulders and knees in villages, and note that electricity can be patchy. 4. Lamu Island, Kenya Vibe: Ancient Swahili culture wrapped in bohemian chic. Donkeys and dhows replace cars, and the muezzin’s call echoes through narrow streets. Lamu Island blends Swahili heritage, dhow sails and barefoot luxury along Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast. What makes it special: Lamu’s old town is the oldest and best‑preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage . Shela Village offers sun‑bleached dunes and a handful of boutique, while Lamu Town bustles with markets, Arabic calligraphy and carved mahogany doors. The island famously has only a handful of cars and around 5,000 donkeys , adding to its time‑capsule charm. Your Luxury Africa notes that respectful dress (shoulders and knees covered) is expected in this predominantly Muslim community. Practical notes: Fly into Manda Island and take a five‑minute boat ride across the channel. Dry season (July–October or January–March) brings blue skies and breezy evenings . Accommodation ranges from homely guesthouses in Lamu Town to luxurious beachfront villas in Shela; bargain for dhow rides and visit during February’s Lamu Yoga Festival or November’s Maulidi celebrations. 5. Nosy Be, Madagascar The “perfumed island” of Madagascar, where ylang‑ylang flowers scent the air and sunset cocktails are obligatory. Nosy Be in Madagascar offers volcanic beaches, ylang-ylang aromas and epic marine life adventures. What makes it special: Nosy Be is Madagascar’s best‑known beach destination. Clear turquoise waters, colourful markets and a lively restaurant scene cater to both backpackers and honeymooners. Roadtrip Africa notes that the island can feel busy and some nightlife scenes are rowdy, but quieter offshore islands like Nosy Komba and Nosy Sakatia offer more authentic vibes. Top experiences include sunset views from Mont Passot, humpback‑whale and dolphin watching (mid‑August to late October), day‑trips to Nosy Iranja with its postcard‑perfect sandbank, snorkelling around Nosy Tanikely and swimming with giant turtles at Nosy Sakatia Hotels range from simple beach huts to all‑inclusive resorts, and local meals of fresh seafood cost just a few dollars. ADVERTISEMENT Practical notes: Regular flights connect Nosy Be’s Fascene Airport with Antananarivo and regional hubs. Ferries link to the mainland at Ankify (three hours), but schedules can be unpredictable. Bring cash (ATMs are limited), and note that roads may be sandy or potholed. Pack for heat and humidity and expect to pay entry fees for some protected areas. 6. Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique Barefoot luxury amid coral reefs and sand‑dune islands. Perfect for divers, honeymooners and anyone who prefers whales to Wi‑Fi. Bazaruto’s turquoise lagoons and endless dunes make Mozambique’s islands a diver’s dream. What makes it special: The Bazaruto archipelago five islands off Mozambique’s coast forms part of a protected national park. Discover Africa raves about its warm waters, coral reefs, whale sharks, manta rays and dugongs . Breaking Travel News highlights that the area is one of Africa’s premier deep‑sea sport‑fishing destinations, with charters targeting giant black marlin and sailfish. Guests often spot dolphins, turtles, seabirds and migrating whales. Benguerra Island hosts luxury eco‑lodges where sustainability is more than a buzzword solar power, reef‑safe practices and community‑run fish storage facilities are the norm. Practical notes: Reach Bazaruto via a 15‑minute flight or two‑hour boat from Vilankulo. Park fees apply, and activities are priced for the luxury market deep‑sea fishing charters cost about US$714 for a half day or US$882 for a full day. Pack reef‑safe sunscreen and expect limited Wi‑Fi. Peak season is May–September when waters are clearest; October–March brings humpback and whale‑shark sightings. 7. Seychelles (Mahé, Praslin & La Digue) Vibe: Edenic islands where giant tortoises roam and granite boulders frame sugar‑white coves. Perfect for romantics, wildlife lovers and yachties. Granite boulders, coco de mer palms and dreamy beaches define Seychelles’ postcard-perfect islands. What makes it special: Seychelles remained uninhabited until the late 18th century, preserving its biodiversity. More than half of the land and marine areas are protected, including Morne Seychellois National Park on Mahé and the nature reserve of Silhouette Island. Aldabra Atoll hosts thousands of giant tortoises on a raised coral platform, while Praslin’s Vallée de Mai shelters rare coco de mer palms. On La Digue, bicycles outnumber cars and travellers cycle between pink‑boulder‑lined bays, sampling fish curries and coconut‑milk ladob stews. Condé Nast notes that Seychelles will host the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in May 2025 and that new luxury resorts (Waldorf Astoria on Platte Island and Cheval Blanc on Mahé) are opening alongside catamaran cruises and Ritz‑Carlton Yacht Collection sailings. Practical notes: Ferries link Mahé, Praslin and La Digue and can be booked via seychelles . Peak season is May–September when seas are calm. Accommodation spans everything from Creole guesthouses to private‑island resorts; expect high prices but world‑class service. Bring comfortable footwear for hiking to hidden coves and some euros for national‑park fees. Trending Now Kenya, China Sign Deal for 80 Off-Grid Solar Systems . Energy and Power Kenya Ebola: Five Patients Discharged, 52 Contacts Monitored . Public Health Alerts DRC Opens London Forum Seeking Partnerships, Not Aid . | Economy Kenya's Rironi–Naivasha Highway: 90% Earthworks, December Target . Transport and Logistics Popular Today Tech and Startups Southern Africa tests Starlink after Namibia licence block . Accident News Authorities to Review Safety After Chapman’s Peak Off-Road Incident . Travel Guide 10 Unique Seychelles Species: Wildlife You Must See . Travel Guide Island-Hopping in Seychelles 2025:Mahé,Praslin & La Digue Like a Local . Travel Guide Top 8 most visited islands on Africa’s Indian Ocean coast . ADVERTISEMENT Social vibe: The official tourism board’s feed entices visitors to explore Praslin with a poetic 2025 update: “Step into enchantment on Praslin Island… Home to the legendary Vallée de Mai, pristine beaches like Anse Lazio, and rare coco de mer palms every corner is a dream” (Sep 29 2025) . Hard to argue with that. 8. Mauritius Vibe: A multicultural melting pot with a luxury‑resort swagger and a laid‑back Creole heart. Ideal for honeymooners, families and golfers. From underwater waterfall illusions to Creole culture, Mauritius is the Indian Ocean’s ultimate island mix. What makes it special: Mauritius won TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice award for the world’s best honeymoon destination in 2025 . Its “winning formula” combines pristine beaches, luxury accommodations and cultural heritage shaped by Indian, African, French and Chinese influences. Unique attractions include the optical illusion of an underwater waterfall at Le Morne and UNESCO World Heritage sites like Aapravasi Ghat. The island offers year‑round warm temperatures rarely dropping below 20 °C and a menu of activities from dolphin‑watching cruises to hiking in the Black River Gorges National Park . Cuisine fuses curries, French pastries and Chinese noodles; roti stands and luxury restaurants coexist happily. Practical notes: Flights arrive daily from Africa, Europe and Asia. Renting a car allows you to explore tea plantations and rum distilleries, but taxis and bus routes are plentiful. Accommodation ranges from modest guesthouses to over‑water villas; prices drop outside the December–January high season. When visiting Hindu temples or Chinese pagodas, dress respectfully. Social vibe: Mauritius Tourism’s 2025 campaign invites travellers to pick their own island identity: “Travel Goals for 2025 – Mauritius! Which amazing experience will you choose on your Mauritius 2025 holiday? … From serene beaches and adventures to nature parks and rich cultural experiences ” (Jan 21 2025) . In other words, there’s something here for everyone. East Africa’s Indian Ocean islands offer far more than cocktails on a white‑sand beach. From Pemba’s clove‑scented hills and Lamu’s donkey‑jammed alleyways to the pink‑granite boulders of La Digue, each island promises its own flavour of paradise. Respect local customs (dress modestly, ask before photographing people),support community‑owned lodges where possible and travel in the shoulder seasons to help spread tourist dollars. Whether you’re chasing whale sharks around Mafia, marlin in Bazaruto or the world’s slowest traffic jam in Lamu, you’ll return with stories, spices and maybe a new appreciation for African island life. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tech and Startups Southern Africa tests Starlink after Namibia licence block Namibia’s decision adds to regional scrutiny of foreign telecom operators and ownership rules. . Accident News Authorities to Review Safety After Chapman’s Peak Off-Road Incident No fatalities reported after vehicle left roadway; EMS treated two people . Travel Guide 10 Unique Seychelles Species: Wildlife You Must See From butt-shaped coconuts to gothic birds, here’s your wild guide to Seychelles’ rarest residents. . Travel Guide Island-Hopping in Seychelles 2025:Mahé,Praslin & La Digue Like a Local From city buzz in Mahé to beach-bum bliss in La Digue here’s how to crack Seychelles in 2025 . Tags Travel South Africa Travel South Africa Madagascar Madagascar Visit Tanzania Visit Tanzania Travel Blog Travel Blog travel abroad travel abroad Travel to Tanzania Travel to Tanzania VIP Travel Costs VIP Travel Costs Travel Blog Travel Blog

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