Controversy Erupts Over $100 Million DRC-Tanzania-Zambia Project Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond May 20, 2024 ​ President Hakainde Hichilema joined President Antoine Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to inaugurate the Kasomeno-Kasenga-Chalwe-Kabila-Mwenda Road Controversy surrounds a $100 million project linking the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Tanzania, and Zambia after the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) allegedly fired an analyst last August for raising concerns. The analyst warned that the project could displace nearly 10,000 people in the DRC, violating DFC’s policy against funding projects that displace over 5,000 people. Despite refusing to approve the project, the analyst was dismissed, according to the investigative firm Project on Government Oversight (Pogo). The project aims to connect cobalt mines in the Congo to the port of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania. However, this dismissal is among several recent instances of alleged reprisals at the DFC. In December, Congress urged DFC to investigate and address these allegations, emphasizing the importance of respecting employees' rights. Emmanuel Umpula, executive director of African Resources Watch , expressed disbelief over the firing and stressed the need for development that minimizes adverse impacts on local communities. The DFC, which partners with the private sector to finance critical projects in developing countries, is now under scrutiny for balancing development goals with ethical considerations. 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

Aliko Dangote, Ventures into Oil trading arm potentially headquartered in London. Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 7, 2024 ​ Aliko Dangote's Visionary Leap into Global Oil Trading In a groundbreaking move, Africa's wealthiest individual, Aliko Dangote, is reportedly setting the stage for a novel oil trading division, potentially based in London, to support his forthcoming refinery project in Nigeria, according to individuals familiar with the matter. This strategic initiative is set to challenge the conventional interactions with leading global traders who have been involved in lengthy negotiations, offering financial and crude oil support to Dangote's refinery in exchange for access to its products. The anticipation is growing among traders as Dangote's massive 650,000-barrel-per-day refinery is expected to significantly impact the global oil and fuel markets. Sources indicate that Dangote is inclined towards a more autonomous approach, with plans to appoint Radha Mohan, a former Essar trading expert, to lead this new venture, as his recent role as director of international supply and trading at Dangote Group since 2021 suggests. The team is actively seeking to expand by recruiting skilled traders. Despite the refinery's construction phase, which lasted nearly a decade and exceeded the budget by $6 billion, totaling $20 billion, the facility has started operations, processing about 8 million barrels in its first two months. However, reaching its full operational capacity is expected to take additional time. To facilitate the refinery's crude oil acquisition, it's reported that Vitol has made upfront payments for certain product shipments, while Trafigura has engaged in crude oil swaps for future fuel cargoes. Both Vitol and Trafigura, based in Geneva, have remained silent on the matter. 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

Ukraine and Kenya plan 'grain center' Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Dallas Hughes Sep 23, 2023 ​ Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (L) holding a conversation with Kenya's President William Ruto prior to the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, US on September 19, 2023. PHOTO | PCS Ukraine has said it will set up "grain center points" in Kenya and different pieces of Africa to handle food weakness. President Volodymyr Zelensky's office reported the arrangement, without giving many subtleties, after he met his Kenyan and South African partners in New York. Ukraine is a significant provider of grain to Africa. In July, Russia's withdrawal from a plan that permitted the commodity of food from Ukraine raised worries about deficiencies on the landmass. Worldwide grain costs have ascended since Russia's attack of Ukraine in February last year. At the point when President Zelensky talked at the UN General Gathering on Tuesday, he blamed Russia for weaponising everything from food to energy. While in New York, he met Kenya's Leader William Ruto and South Africa's Cyril Ramaphosa. In his proclamation about the gathering, Mr Ruto said that the Ukrainian president had focused on laying out a "grain center" in Kenya's beach front city of Mombasa to assist with tending to food deficiencies in East Africa. Yet, he gave no more insights concerning what this would involve, or how the grain would arrive. Kenya has been one of Africa's most noticeable allies of Ukraine following Russia's intrusion. South Africa, then again, has kept a more impartial position. In June, President Ramaphosa drove an African harmony mission to both Ukraine and Russia. Mr Ramaphosa said that he and the Ukrainian president had examined "the way forward on the harmony drive". They likewise discussed the recovery of the grain bargain, which had seen the commodity of Ukrainian food through the Dark Ocean. Mr Zelensky told Mr Ramaphosa that Ukraine was attempting to track down elective courses to supply grain to Africa. A few boats with grain have currently effectively gone through these courses notwithstanding the tough spot," Mr Zelensky said. Russia's withdrawal from the grain plot keeps Ukraine from utilizing the Dark Ocean channel to move food and different commodities to Africa and different districts. Russia's Leader Vladimir Putin declined to reestablish the plan after its expiry in July this year. He said that Russia would possibly restore the arrangement assuming Western nations consented to specific circumstances, which incorporate lifting the monetary authorizations put on his country. In July, Russia offered free grain to six African nations: Burkina Faso, Zimbabwe, Mali, Somalia, the Focal African Republic and Eritrea. 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

Nigeria's $3.3 Billion Steel Import Revolution Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 1, 2024 ​ Empowering Nigeria's Future: The Heartbeat of Industrial Progress Nigeria's heavy reliance on steel imports, costing the nation approximately $3.3 billion annually, highlights a significant economic challenge and an opportunity for industrial advancement. Despite possessing the 12th largest steel deposits globally , with over three billion tonnes across states like Kogi, Enugu, Zamfara, and Kaduna, the country has yet to harness this potential fully. The situation is further exacerbated by inefficiencies and alleged corruption within key steel companies such as Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited and the National Iron Ore Mining Company (NIOMCO)​​​​. In a promising development, efforts are underway to reverse this trend and foster domestic steel production. A notable initiative is the establishment of a fully integrated mining and steel processing plant by African Natural Resources and Mines Limited, a subsidiary of the African Industries Group, in Gujeni village, Kaduna. This plant, with a mining capacity exceeding five million tonnes per annum, is poised to enhance Nigeria's standing in the global steel market , promoting economic growth and job creation. This strategic move is expected not only to reduce dependency on imports but also to position Nigeria as a significant player in the international steel industry​​. The focus on steel production aligns with broader efforts to revitalize Nigeria's mining and steel sectors, as evidenced by recent agreements aimed at resolving long-standing disputes and unlocking the potential of key assets like the Ajaokuta Steel Company. 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

Zambia's Ex-First Lady Esther Lungu Arrested on Fraud Charges Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jun 1, 2024 Zambia's former First Lady, Esther Lungu and Edgar Lungu Former president of Zambia Zambia's former First Lady, Esther Lungu, and her daughter, Chiyeso Katete, have been arrested on charges related to the possession of properties suspected to be proceeds of crime. The arrests took place on Thursday in Lusaka, along with a relative, Charles Phiri, according to authorities. The state anti-drug agency reported that Ms. Lungu could not provide a reasonable explanation for acquiring a $1.5 million estate in the capital. Former President Edgar Lungu announced that the family intends to challenge the charges in court, claiming that the government is politically victimizing them to prevent his return to politics ahead of the 2026 elections. He also previously alleged that he was placed under house arrest due to his political activities, a claim the government denies. Ms. Lungu, 66, was arrested for allegedly fraudulently acquiring a luxurious property in Lusaka's State Lodge area, consisting of 15 white double-storey flats. The property, jointly owned with others, was reportedly acquired between 2015 and 2023. Her daughter faces additional charges for acquiring another estate in Lusaka and possessing a high-cost house, four chicken runs, and related works. After questioning, the accused were released on bond. Another daughter, Tasila Lungu, is also facing related charges and has been summoned to appear at the Drug Enforcement Commission on Monday. Former President Lungu, who retired from politics after losing the presidency in 2021, announced a political comeback last October, resulting in the withdrawal of his retirement benefits. His tenure left Zambia with significant debt and a struggling economy. President Hakainde Hichilema's administration has since intensified an anti-corruption campaign, targeting former officials and Mr. Lungu’s family members to recover allegedly looted 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

African Development Bank's Energy Initiatives in Egypt and Côte d’Ivoire Earn Prestigious IJ Global Awards Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 21, 2024 ​ Singrobo-Ahouaty hydro electric power plant In a notable achievement at the IJ Global Awards in London, two energy projects supported by the African Development Bank (AfDB) have clinched top honors, underscoring the bank's pivotal role in fostering sustainable energy solutions in Africa. Côte d’Ivoire’s Singrobo Hydropower Plant Triumphs The Singrobo hydropower plant, a landmark in West Africa's renewable energy landscape, secured the Power Deal of the Year award. The AfDB's instrumental role as the Mandated Lead Arranger facilitated the project's financial closure in December 2022, with a €40 million investment. The 44MW hydroelectric facility, currently under construction on the Bandama River, is set to bolster Côte d’Ivoire's renewable energy capacity, aligning with its goal to derive 42% of electricity from sustainable sources by 2030. Egypt’s Kom Ombo Solar Plant Shines in Energy Transition The Kom Ombo solar project in Egypt, celebrated as the Energy Transition Deal of the Year, represents a significant stride in the country's renewable energy journey. With a $27.22 million contribution from the AfDB, the 200 MW solar PV plant exemplifies the bank's commitment to diversifying Africa's energy mix and advancing green growth initiatives. A Testament to Sustainable Development Wale Shonibare, AfDB’s Director for Energy Financial Solutions, expressed the awards as an acknowledgment of the bank's dedication to providing green, affordable, and quality energy across Africa. These accolades highlight the AfDB's innovative financial strategies in mobilizing private sector investment and supporting the continent's transition to sustainable energy. The IJ Global Awards, esteemed for their rigorous peer-reviewed process, celebrate outstanding achievements in the global infrastructure and energy sectors, recognizing projects and entities that drive impactful change. 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

DRC faces risk of violence and crisis as elections loom: ICG Report Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Joel Arnold Nov 1, 2023 ​ The International Crisis Group (ICG) has warned that the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is at risk of descending into violence and national crisis as it approaches the December elections. The ICG report states that a badly-run election, coupled with violence that excludes many citizens from voting, could hinder the DRC’s progress towards a more democratic future and economic stability. The report highlights challenges to smooth elections, including rising political tensions, logistical challenges, and transparency issues with the National Independent Electoral Commission. Additionally, fighting between government forces and insurgents in North Kivu and insecurity elsewhere pose risks. The enforcement of martial law in two eastern provinces, suppression of protests, and the potential for security forces to commit abuses during election campaigning are other concerns. The ICG also warns of clashes between party supporters, increased attacks by armed groups, and violent disputes at polling stations. The report notes deteriorating security in parts of the country and a failure of the mineral boom to improve people’s lives. However, President Félix Tshisekedi has bolstered his position by adding political heavyweights to his coalition. While the last elections in 2018 marked a peaceful transition of power with Tshisekedi taking office, the ICG calls upon the international community to encourage the government and opposition to find compromises on contentious issues and stand ready to mediate if election results are contested, particularly influential African powers in Kinshasa and Western actors. 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

Gunmen Kidnap Nine Students in Kogi, Nigeria Amid Rising Insecurity Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe May 12, 2024 ​ Residents are fleeing Boko Haram attacks and seeking refuge in Bosso, Niger. Kogi, Nigeria - In a disturbing development, at least nine students were forcibly taken from their classrooms by armed assailants at the Confluence University of Science and Technology in Kogi, Northern Nigeria. The incident, which occurred late Thursday night, has heightened fears as the nation struggles with ongoing insecurity issues. The Kogi State Government, via Information Commissioner Kingsley Femi Fanwo, confirmed the kidnappings on Friday. He detailed that the students were in the midst of their studies when the gunmen launched their attack. A collaborative search and rescue operation involving local security forces and hunters familiar with the terrain is currently in progress. This alarming event is part of a broader pattern of kidnappings by criminal gangs in Northern Nigeria. These groups, often heavily armed and lacking any ideological motives, frequently target villagers, students, and motorists to demand ransoms. Despite efforts, security forces have struggled to curb these violent acts. The tactic of kidnapping school students was notoriously pioneered by the jihadist group Boko Haram, which famously abducted over 200 girls from a school in Chibok, Borno State, nearly a decade ago. This method has since been adopted by various criminal factions across the region, exacerbating the security crisis. The community is on high alert, and authorities are urging citizens to report any suspicious activities and cooperate with law enforcement agencies. Educational institutions across Kogi State are being advised to enhance security measures to safeguard students and staff. The recurring kidnappings have drawn international concern, calling for more effective interventions to protect vulnerable populations, especially in educational settings. The Nigerian government faces increasing pressure to address these security challenges and ensure the safety of its citizens. 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

Ethiopia Embarks on Nile Basin Reforestation Under Green Legacy Initiative Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 9, 2024 ​ Ethiopia Advances Green Legacy Initiative with Massive Nile Basin Reforestation Plan Addis Ababa, Ethiopia - In a significant stride towards environmental conservation, Ethiopia's Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) has announced an ambitious plan to plant 6.5 billion saplings during the upcoming rainy season. This initiative forms a part of the country's broader Green Legacy Initiative aimed at bolstering the ecological integrity of the Nile Basin and supporting sustainable development. Fanosie Mekonnen, MoA's Lead Executive Officer for Natural Resources Protection and Usage , revealed in a conversation with the Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA) that a considerable focus of this year's reforestation efforts would be directed towards the Nile Basin. Specifically, 25 percent of the forestry seedlings, constituting a mix of 60 percent agroforestry and 40 percent forestry trees, are earmarked for this critical watershed area. The initiative is not only about planting trees but also about safeguarding crucial national assets like the Abbay Dam from sedimentation threats. By reinforcing natural resource management and conservation within the Nile Basin, Ethiopia is taking proactive steps to maintain the dam's longevity and functionality. Collaboration is at the heart of this endeavor, with Fanosie highlighting the collective efforts of state leaders and the general public in driving the Green Legacy Initiative forward. The nationwide commitment is evident in the participation in basin development and green legacy activities, demonstrating a unified approach to environmental stewardship. Looking back at the journey of the Green Legacy Initiative, Ethiopia has made commendable progress, with over 32.5 billion seedlings planted across the nation in the last five years. The ambitious goal to plant 50 billion seedlings in the initiative's first and second phases underscores Ethiopia's dedication to environmental conservation and climate action. 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 Africa's Inflation Risks Amid Global Financial Shifts, Central Bank Governor Notes Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 21, 2024 ​ Central Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago JOHANNESBURG — Central Bank Governor Lesetja Kganyago has highlighted potential upward pressures on South Africa's inflation, particularly from global oil prices and tightening financial conditions worldwide. Speaking at the International Monetary Fund and World Bank spring meetings in Washington, Kganyago pointed out the risks despite recent data suggesting a modest decline in inflation rates. In the latest statistics released on Wednesday, South Africa's headline inflation decreased to 5.3% year-on-year in March, down from 5.6% in February, slightly below what analysts had predicted. However, the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) anticipates that inflation will not stabilize at the 4.5% midpoint of its target range until the end of 2025, which is later than previous estimates. Governor Kganyago indicated that the principal inflationary threats are due to increased oil prices fueled by ongoing tensions in the Middle East and the likelihood of continued high interest rates set by the U.S. Federal Reserve. Such conditions are expected to divert capital from emerging markets to more developed economies, potentially impacting exchange rates. "And we are in that category," Kganyago added, noting a more than 4% depreciation of the South African rand against the dollar since the beginning of the year. While there have been concerns about food price inflation due to adverse weather conditions such as droughts across Africa, South Africa has not yet seen significant price surges from this sector in its most recent inflation data. Amid these economic challenges, South Africa, Africa's most industrialized nation, is preparing for a crucial general election on May 29. This election could be historic if the ruling African National Congress loses its parliamentary majority for the first time since the end of apartheid three decades ago. The upcoming election adds another layer of uncertainty, which Kganyago noted is a common trend globally with many countries conducting elections this year. These election-related uncertainties are likely to manifest in various financial markets, including foreign exchange, bonds, and equities, adding to the economic challenges facing the nation. 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

Finidi George to Lead Nigeria in Crucial World Cup Qualifiers Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Jun 3, 2024 ​ Finidi George faces his first significant challenge as Nigeria's head coach Finidi George faces his first significant challenge as Nigeria's head coach as the Super Eagles prepare to take on South Africa and Benin in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. These matches, scheduled for Friday, 7 June, and Monday, 10 June, are pivotal after Nigeria's slow start in Group C, securing only two points from their opening two qualifiers. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has labeled these fixtures as "must-win encounters." George, who stepped in as interim head coach in March, has already overseen two friendlies, achieving a victory against rivals Ghana but suffering a loss to Mali. Despite the mixed results, the upcoming qualifiers will be his first major test since his permanent appointment. The team faces a significant setback with Napoli striker Victor Osimhen ruled out due to injury. However, George can rely on the attacking prowess of players like Atalanta's Europa League final hero Ademola Lookman and Victor Boniface, who emerged as the top scorer for German double winners Bayer Leverkusen this season. George brings a wealth of experience to the role. His illustrious playing career and his managerial stint at Enyimba, where he led the team to a domestic league title, highlight his capabilities. Additionally, his 20 months as an assistant to former Nigeria coach Jose Peseiro, who led the team to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final in Ivory Coast, further solidify his credentials. As the Super Eagles gear up for these crucial matches, George's strategic acumen and ability to motivate his squad will be under the spotlight. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Nigeria performs under his leadership in these decisive World Cup qualifiers. 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

Ramaphosa to Skip G7 Summit Amid Coalition Talks for National Unity Government Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jun 10, 2024 ​ South African President Cyril Ramaphosa South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will miss this week's Group of Seven (G7) summit in Italy to focus on domestic issues, his spokesperson announced on Monday. The African National Congress (ANC), Ramaphosa's party, is in urgent talks with various other parties to form a national unity government after losing its majority for the first time since the end of apartheid in last month's election. Ramaphosa was initially set to attend the G7 summit from June 13-15 at the invitation of Italy , which currently holds the rotating presidency of the G7 and aims to include a broader range of nations beyond the traditional members: the United States, Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, and Japan. However, Ramaphosa's spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya, confirmed that the president will stay in South Africa due to pressing domestic priorities. Last week, Ramaphosa emphasized the importance of collaborating with other political forces to advance the country. The ANC is under pressure to swiftly form a coalition, as the new National Assembly will hold its first session on Friday. One of its primary tasks will be electing the next president, with Ramaphosa still expected to secure the position as the ANC remains the largest party. The ANC will occupy 159 of the 400 seats in the National Assembly. The Democratic Alliance, the nearest rival, holds 87 seats, followed by the uMkhonto we Sizwe, led by former president Jacob Zuma, with 58 seats, and the Economic Freedom Fighters with 39 seats. 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