Kenyan Runners Triumph with Women's-Only World Record at London Marathon Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Apr 21, 2024 ​ Triumphant Kenyan runner Peres Jepchirchir celebrates a groundbreaking victory and a new women-only marathon world record at the London Marathon. Photo:gettyimages Peres Jepchirchir of Kenya set a new world record for a women-only marathon event at the London Marathon on Sunday, April 21, achieving a dual triumph by putting herself in pole position to defend her Olympic title. Jepchirchir delivered an outstanding performance, showcasing a commanding finish and outpacing her competitors to cross the finish line on The Mall with a time of 2 hours, 16 minutes, and 16 seconds. This remarkable feat not only earned her victory but also shattered the previous women-only marathon world record of 2:17:01, set by Mary Keitany in 2017 at the same event. The women’s elite race in London traditionally starts ahead of the men's field, giving the women their own separate contest. For Jepchirchir, this victory is likely to secure her selection for Kenya’s Olympic marathon team for the upcoming Paris Games. Her performance exceeded her own expectations, with her focus on Olympic preparation rather than record-breaking runs. This win marks a significant comeback for her after a third-place finish in the previous year's London Marathon. Jepchirchir's confidence will undoubtedly be fortified by her late sprint to victory, a tactic she believes gives her an edge in the closing stages of a race. Complementing her success was fellow Kenyan Alexander Mutiso Munyao, who claimed victory in the men's race with a time of 2 hours, 4 minutes, and 1 second. The day was particularly poignant as the London Marathon also commemorated Kelvin Kiptum, last year’s champion from Kenya who tragically passed away in a car accident in February at the age of 24. 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

Egypt Celebrates the Return of a 3,400-Year-Old Stolen Statue of King Ramses II Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Apr 22, 2024 ​ 3,400-Year-Old Stolen Statue of King Ramses II Cairo, Egypt – In a significant cultural triumph, Egypt has successfully reclaimed a priceless artifact: a 3,400-year-old statue depicting King Ramses II. The ancient relic, which was stolen over three decades ago, has now found its way back to its homeland, the Egyptian Ministry of Antiquities announced on Sunday. The Journey Home Originally pilfered from the temple of Ramses II in the historic city of Abydos, Southern Egypt, the statue's theft dates back to the late 1980s or early 1990s. Its absence was noted until it resurfaced in 2013 at a London exhibition. From there, the statue passed through multiple countries before ending up in Switzerland. The Egyptian government, in collaboration with Swiss authorities, was able to establish and prove its rightful ownership, leading to the artifact’s repatriation. Restoration and Display Currently housed in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, the statue is not yet available for public viewing. "The artifact will undergo a thorough restoration process to ensure its preservation for future generations," stated the Ministry. Shaaban Abdel Gawad, who leads Egypt's antiquities repatriation department, emphasized the historical significance of the statue, noting that "This head is part of a group of statues that portray King Ramses II seated alongside various Egyptian deities." A Symbol of Egypt’s Rich Heritage King Ramses II, also known as Ramses the Great, is one of Egypt’s most celebrated pharaohs, ruling from 1279 to 1213 B.C. His era is marked by vast building programs and numerous military expeditions, cementing his reputation as one of ancient Egypt’s most powerful rulers. The return of the King Ramses II statue not only marks a win for Egypt's cultural heritage but also highlights the ongoing global efforts against the illicit trafficking of antiquities. Egypt continues to advocate for the return of stolen artifacts and remains committed to preserving its rich historical legacy. The Egyptian Museum plans to feature the restored statue in a special exhibit dedicated to Ramses II, aiming to provide visitors with a deeper understanding of his reign and Egypt's formidable history in antiquity 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

Asylum Seekers in UK Fear Attending Home Office Meetings Amid Rwanda Deportation Threats Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond May 15, 2024 ​ Nura says that each time she goes to sign in she's terrified of being detained for Rwanda deportation Asylum seekers in the UK are increasingly fearful of attending Home Office meetings due to the threat of deportation to Rwanda. After speaking to several individuals who now dread these routine appointments, with some even contemplating skipping them altogether. Kidus, a 30-year-old from Eritrea, arrived in the UK in June 2022 on a small boat with about two dozen other people. Despite government plans to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda being announced at that time , he never believed it would happen to him. Recently, however, he received a letter indicating he was being considered for removal, making the threat feel real. Kidus recounts that before leaving France, people smugglers assured him the policy wouldn't affect him. But his fears were heightened when a friend, also from Eritrea and who traveled on the same boat, was detained during a routine Home Office appointment in Liverpool. "If I didn't go there, I know they'll drop my case," he tells us, concerned his asylum application will be cancelled. "But if I go I know they will detain me. So, I'm just confused what I'm going to do." A document from Home Office officials reveals that only 2,143 of the 5,700 asylum seekers Rwanda has agreed to accept regularly attend check-ins and can be located for detention. If individuals like Kidus stop attending, they will join the 3,557 migrants currently missing. Kidus lives in a shared house paid for by the Home Office, making it difficult for him to disappear and increasing his fear of being detained at any time. This constant fear has disrupted his life, causing him to stop attending college and always carry the phone numbers of legal firms. "I'm always just frightened here. So, they might come at night or day and I'm always thinking that they'll come and they'll take me to detention. I'm not feeling safe here," he says. Kidus's friend, Nahom, 26, is currently held in a detention center near London, along with about 40 other asylum seekers who have been told they will be sent to Rwanda. Nahom describes the center as a nightmare and feels increasingly desperate about his situation. "It's like a nightmare, it's like a prison and I don't like it here. I'm really stressed and panicked about the situation," Nahom tells us from the site almost 100 miles away. "They can send my body, but not me alive," he says. "I'm just giving up." In west London, Nura, a woman in her 20s, has decided to continue attending her Home Office meetings despite the risks. She fears being kicked out of her taxpayer-funded hotel if she misses these appointments. The stories of Kidus, Nahom, and Nura highlight the growing fear and uncertainty among asylum seekers in the UK as they face the possibility of deportation to Rwanda. 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

Kenyan Lawyers Challenge Government's Plan to Send Police to Haiti, Seek Contempt Ruling Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe May 17, 2024 ​ Lawyers Ekuru Aukot contested the deployment in the High Court in October Kenyan lawyers and their opposition party have petitioned a court to hold the government in contempt over its plans to deploy police to Haiti, according to a recent filing. In response to Haiti's urgent appeal for assistance, Kenya offered in July 2023 to send 1,000 officers to address a deteriorating security crisis that has forced about 200,000 people to flee their homes due to gang violence. Lawyers Ekuru Aukot, Miruru Waweru, and their Thirdway Alliance Kenya party initially contested the deployment in the High Court in October. In January, President William Ruto announced Kenya's intention to proceed with the deployment, despite a court ruling that officers could only be sent abroad if a "reciprocal arrangement" existed with the host government. People also read: Kenyan Lawyers Challenge Government's Plan to Send Police to Haiti, Seek Contempt Ruling "The applicants are reliably informed that the impugned deployment may be done any time from now," the plaintiffs stated in their application on Thursday, emphasizing that the urgency of the matter is underscored by a May 23 deadline for the next step in the deployment process. In March, the Kenyan government announced a pause on the deployment following the resignation of Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry. 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

Spyware Scandal: Kagame's Regime Targets Rivals with Pegasus Amid Election Tensions Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe May 29, 2024 ​ Anne Rwigara being held by Rwandan forces in Rwanda before her murder in The US In a shocking revelation, a leaked list of phone numbers has exposed how Rwanda's President Paul Kagame used Pegasus spyware to track political opponents and members of his own party. Among the targets was Anne Rwigara, who died unexpectedly in California on December 28, 2023, at the age of 41. Anne's death adds to the series of tragedies that have befallen the Rwigara family. In 2015, Assinapol Rwigara, Anne’s father, died in a mysterious car accident. In 2017, her sister Diane Rwigara, a presidential hopeful, was imprisoned alongside their mother on charges of fraud and inciting insurrection, only to be acquitted in December 2018. Despite their acquittal, Anne’s phone number was added to the Pegasus spyware list in February 2019 . Pegasus, a tool by Israel’s NSO Group, allows remote phone infiltration. Forbidden Stories, part of the Rwanda Classified project, confirmed this targeting but couldn’t perform a forensic analysis on Anne’s device. Other notable figures targeted include former Justice Minister Tharcisse Karugarama, current Ambassador to Zimbabwe James Musoni, and Senior Presidential Advisor Professor Nshuti Manasseh. These revelations come as Rwanda prepares for the July 15 presidential elections, with Kagame expected to win again. Diane Rwigara, however, has announced her candidacy against him. The Rwandan government denies using Pegasus, claiming the contract with NSO Group ended in 2021. Yet, Israeli sources and watchdogs like Citizen Lab suggest otherwise. The international community watches closely as Rwanda’s political landscape heats up. 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

Saudi Arabian Investment Delegation Arrives in Addis Ababa to Enhance Economic Partnerships Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jun 5, 2024 Saudi Arabian Investment and Trade delegation welcomed in Ethiopia A prestigious Saudi Arabian Investment and Trade delegation, spearheaded by the President of the Federation of Saudi Arabian Chambers of Commerce, has landed in Addis Ababa. This high-level group, comprising 79 prominent investors and officials from Saudi Arabia’s Chamber of Commerce, received a warm welcome at Bole International Airport. Among those welcoming the delegation were Fitsum Assefa, Minister of Planning and Development; Ambassador Nasise Chali, Minister of Tourism; and Ambassador Mesganu Arga, State Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia. From June 4-6, 2024, the delegation will engage in a packed itinerary, including a significant trade and investment forum. A key highlight of the visit will be the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ethiopian Chamber of Commerce and Sectorial Association, aimed at boosting economic collaboration. The Saudi investors are scheduled to tour several critical sites, such as the Eastern Industrial Park, Chaka Project, Alema Koudijits Animal Feed Producing Complex, Adwa Victory Memorial Museum, and the Abdulhakim Coffee Processing Complex at Kality. This visit underscores a strategic move to enhance trade and investment opportunities, diversify economic relations, and strengthen the bilateral ties between Saudi Arabia and Ethiopia. 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 East African Crude Oil Pipeline (Eacop):Uganda-Tanzania Crude Pipeline Advances with New Coating Facility Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 27, 2024 ​ An image of part of Uganda-Tanzania Pipeline The East African Crude Oil Pipeline (Eacop) initiative has reached a pivotal phase with the launch of a state-of-the-art coating plant in Sojo village, Tabora region, Tanzania. This critical facility is set to insulate the 1,443 km pipeline stretching from Hoima, Uganda, to the Tanzanian port of Tanga, marking a significant stride in the project's construction phase. Eacop, the entity behind the pipeline's construction and operation, announced the thermal insulation plant's completion alongside the signing of corridor lease agreements as key milestones. The plant will ensure the pipeline's efficiency by maintaining the transported fluid's temperature, akin to a thermos flask's functionality. The inauguration ceremony saw key figures like Tanzania's Deputy Prime Minister Doto Mashaka Biteko and Uganda's Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa, alongside Eacop executives, emphasizing the project's role in bolstering regional economic growth and energy security. The initiative is poised to create substantial employment, with around 500 construction phase jobs and 270 operational roles in oil production activities. Constructed and operated by the Wasco Isoaf joint venture, the coating facility symbolizes Eacop's commitment to safety, sustainability, and regional development. With TotalEnergies holding a majority stake in Eacop Ltd, alongside significant shares by Uganda National Oil Company, Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation, and China National Offshore Oil Corporation, the project is a testament to international and local collaboration in advancing East Africa's energy infrastructure . 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

Morocco ascends to the top 10 in the FIFA Futsal Men's World Ranking. Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond May 7, 2024 ​ Morocco has made a significant leap to 6th place in the FIFA Futsal Men's World Ranking, marking their entry into the top ten for the first time. This announcement was made by FIFA on May 6th and comes after a remarkable period of success for the Moroccan team. In 2023, Morocco showcased their dominance in the sport with a series of emphatic victories, starting with a 7-1 thrashing of Kuwait in the Arab Futsal Cup final. They continued their impressive form by defeating Argentina 7-0 in a friendly match, highlighting their tactical prowess and strong team cohesion. Throughout the year, Morocco remained unbeaten, a testament to their strategic planning and execution on the court. Their winning streak extended into 2024, beginning with their triumph at the Futsal Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Here, they defeated Angola with a convincing 5-1 score in the final, securing their third continental title and tying with Egypt for the most championships won in the competition's history. Key players have been central to Morocco's rise in the futsal world. Figures like Bilal Bakkali, Soufian Charraoui, and Soufiane El-Mesrar have not only contributed exceptional skills and goals but have also brought leadership and inspiration to the squad. Their performances are now setting the stage for Morocco to potentially become the first nation outside Europe or South America to win futsal's most prestigious trophy. This ascent in the futsal rankings is part of a broader success story for Moroccan football, which includes their first-ever Confederations Cup victory in September 2022 and their third Arab Futsal Cup title in 2023. These achievements reflect Morocco's growing stature in international futsal and football, signaling their emergence as a formidable force on the global 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

Afreximbank Reports 31.73% Increase in Q1 Net Interest Income to $393.4 Million Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire May 25, 2024 ​ The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has released its consolidated financial statements for the first quarter of 2024, revealing a significant 31.73% increase in Net Interest Income to $393.4 million, up from $298.6 million in Q1 2023. This growth was primarily driven by a 40.07% rise in interest income, which reached $721.8 million due to an expanding portfolio of loans and advances. The bank's Net Interest Margin improved to 4.82% from 4.40% in the same period last year, attributed to higher benchmark rates and effective borrowing cost management. Operating efficiency also saw notable improvement, with the cost-to-income ratio decreasing to 14.50% from 16.82% in Q1 2023, despite a 10.63% rise in operating expenses to $61.4 million. Afreximbank's staff costs increased by 28.55% year-on-year, reflecting an expanded headcount to support business growth and strategic initiatives. These costs accounted for 52.93% of the group's total expenses. The Q1 2024 performance underscores Afreximbank's resilience and strategic growth amid challenging geopolitical and macroeconomic conditions, enhancing shareholder value. 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

Kigali to Host Innovate Africa Symposium on Data Governance Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire May 8, 2024 ​ 2023 Innovation Africa in Lusaka Zambia The African Development Bank, in collaboration with the National Institute of Statistics Rwanda, is set to host the Second Edition of the Innovate Africa Symposium from October 2-4, 2024 in Kigali, Rwanda. This year's theme focuses on "Strengthening Data Governance in the African Data Ecosystem," aiming to spotlight the critical role of robust data governance frameworks in utilizing data for socio-economic growth in the digital era. The event promises a rich agenda with plenary and panel discussions along with parallel sessions that delve into different dimensions of data governance such as Innovation & Strategy, Platforms & Process, and Case Studies & Technology Demos. Leaders from government, civil society, the private sector, academia, and international organizations will come together to discuss ways to enhance transparency, efficiency, and innovation through effective data governance. Interested participants are invited to submit presentation proposals that may cover a range of topics including data catalog and lineage, data quality management, privacy, compliance, data protection, and more. The symposium offers a unique platform for networking, learning, and collaborative innovation, encouraging submissions from those affiliated with national agencies, academia, international organizations, and the private sector. Presentation proposals can be submitted online, and selected presenters may be eligible for sponsorship to participate in the symposium. This event represents a significant opportunity for anyone involved in data governance to share experiences , tools, and strategies, and to contribute to advancing data governance across Africa. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

UK Monarch Extends Condolences and Calls for Climate Action Amid Kenya Flood Crisis Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe May 8, 2024 ​ Britain's King Charles III (L) with Kenyan President William Ruto during the ceremonial welcome at the state house in Nairobi, Kenya on October 31, 2023. King Charles III of the United Kingdom has extended his condolences to Kenyans affected by the devastating floods sweeping across the nation. In a heartfelt message to Kenya's President William Ruto, King Charles emphasized the urgent need for global collaboration to combat and adapt to climate change. The message follows his state visit to Kenya in October last year, underscoring the close ties and shared challenges between the two nations. The King expressed his deep sadness over the increased loss of lives and livelihoods due to the floods, urging for immediate action to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change. His statement highlighted the critical role of emergency workers and volunteers who are tirelessly aiding those impacted by the floods. Recent reports from Kenya's Interior Ministry reveal a troubling increase in the impact of the floods, with the death toll rising to 238. Additionally, 174 people have been wounded, 75 are missing, and approximately 47,000 families, or 235,000 individuals, have been displaced. Emergency camps have been established in 22 counties, providing shelter to over 70,451 people. The UK monarch's message aligns with his longstanding commitment to environmental issues , reinforcing the shared responsibility to address climate change and biodiversity loss for the sake of global well-being and survival. 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

Victor Osimhen and Tobi Amusan Join Forbes' 30 Under 30 Class of 2024 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Apr 15, 2024 ​ Only two Nigerian athletes secured spots on the prestigious Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 list for 2024. Credit: GettyImages Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen and track star Tobi Amusan have been recognized as part of the Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 Class of 2024, highlighting their athletic achievements and impactful contributions both within and beyond their sports. Their selection not only celebrates their professional success but also their roles as community influencers and national icons in Nigeria. This year's selection process by Forbes Africa was particularly rigorous, involving a panel of high-profile judges and experts, along with contributions from previous honorees, to identify truly deserving young talents across the continent. Osimhen and Amusan are the only Nigerian athletes to make this prestigious list, underscoring Nigeria's strong presence in the international sports arena. Osimhen, at 25, has become the highest-paid Nigerian footballer following a significant contract with Napoli in December 2023. Similarly, 26-year-old Amusan has risen to become the top-paid Nigerian in track and field, securing multiple endorsement deals thanks to her continued dominance in the sport. Their careers are characterized by resilience, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to their disciplines. The inclusion of these athletes in the Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 roster not only marks personal milestones but also reflects the vast potential and rich talent pool within Africa. Their stories of perseverance and success are set to inspire a new generation of athletes to chase their dreams with determination, further elevating the continent's standing on the global sports 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