Julien Paluku: “The Rubaya mines are the real FDLR that Rwanda is looking for Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond May 10, 2024 ​ Julien Paluku Kahongya, the minister of industry of DRCongo Former North Kivu Governor and current Minister of Industry, Julien Paluku, challenged Rwandan President Paul Kagame's claims about the destabilization of Congo by Rwandan Hutu rebels during a book launch in Paris on April 29. Julien Paluku argued that these assertions are merely excuses for Rwanda's exploitation of Congo's resources "When we explained the economic motives behind the Rwandan aggression to the public, it was to enhance everyone's understanding. Today, the Pyrochlore/Niobium mine in Lueshe/Somikivu (Rutshuru territory, near Kishishe) and the Coltan and Tourmaline mine in Rubaya (Masisi territory) are under the control of the Rwandan army, These mines are the actual FDLR that Rwanda is pursuing in the DRC."Paluku said Understanding the tactics of the Rwandans and their allies, Julien Paluku asserts that the recent bombings of displaced person camps around Goma, alongside similar attacks in Sake and Minova, South Kivu, are diversionary strategies masking ongoing looting at mining sites. These actions, which constitute war crimes, prompted an outraged response from Congolese Minister of Human Rights, Fabrice Puela, who demanded an end to the international community's silence on the massacres committed by the Rwandan army in North Kivu "The blood of the Congolese is worth the blood of the Ukrainians and it is unacceptable that the international community is only interested in the Congo for raw materials, Moreover, I join the entire battered population of the east of the country counting on its vigilance as well as the Defense and Security Forces who deserve all the support in order to carry out their saving mission successfully, An expert on the Great Lakes region predicts that Rwanda's mining exports will surge following the international agreements it has signed. Julien Paluku, with a touch of irony, refers to the FDLR as a 'Force Given for the Liberation of Rwanda from Crippling Poverty 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

Former UFC Champion Francis Ngannou Faces Tragic Loss of Young Son Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire May 1, 2024 ​ Ngannou expressed his profound sorrow In a heart-wrenching announcement made via X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou shared the devastating news of his 15-month-old son Kobe's passing. Ngannou expressed his profound sorrow, stating, "Too soon to leave but yet he's gone. My little boy, my mate, my partner Kobe was full of life and joy. Now, he's laying without life. I shouted his name over and over but he's not responding." The Cameroonian fighter, known for his formidable presence in the ring, conveyed his emotional turmoil: "I was my best self next to him and now I have no clue of who I am. Life is so unfair to hit us where it hurts the most." The global sports community, including prominent figures like Conor McGregor, has rallied around Ngannou, offering condolences and support. McGregor responded to Ngannou's post, saying, "I am so sorry to hear of your loss Francis, my prayers are with you and your family at this time." Ngannou's manager, Marquel Martin, also expressed his grief online, noting that "millions of others" will be praying for the bereaved family. This tragic event follows Ngannou's recent defeat by Anthony Joshua in Saudi Arabia, a match that marked a significant moment in his career following his decision to move away from MMA. Francis Ngannou's journey has been one of incredible highs and devastating lows, both in his professional and personal life. As the sports world mourns with Ngannou, his resilience and strength remain at the forefront of conversations among fans and fellow athletes alike. 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

AfCFTA's Struggle: Africa's Global Trade Share Remains at 3% reports say Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 4, 2024 ​ A view of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) headquarters, the epicenter for strategizing Africa's trade elevation Africa's global trade share remains under 3%, largely influenced by merchandise trade in 2023, according to a recent Economic Commission for Africa report. Despite efforts towards regional integration, African countries still predominantly trade with non-African nations. The report highlights a lag in meeting macroeconomic convergence criteria and notes minimal progress in intra-African trade since the launch of the African Continental Free Trade Area in 2021, with intra-African trade decreasing slightly from 2021 to 2022. Infrastructure developments in roads and ICT have advanced, but rail and energy sectors face challenges, primarily due to funding shortages. ECA's Regional Integration and Trade Division Director, Stephen Karingi, points out that governance issues, poverty, and unemployment remain significant hurdles. He emphasizes that the success of the free trade area depends on effective implementation to harness the benefits of market and trade integration across Africa. Addressing the infrastructure funding gap, estimated between $130bn and $170bn annually, experts suggest innovative financing methods like blended finance, sustainability-focused bonds, and debt-for-nature swaps to support Africa's trade and integration efforts. You can also read our Xtrafrica article about the goals of African Continental Free Trade Area 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

Tobi Amusan's Unexpected Setback at Xiamen Diamond League Serves as a Crucial Wake-Up Call Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Apr 22, 2024 ​ Resilience in Focus: World Record Holder Tobi Amusan regroups after an intense race, her determination undiminished by the day's challenges. Photo:Premium Times At the recent Xiamen Diamond League, the women's 100m Hurdles showcased a high-stakes competition, with Olympic champion Jasmine Camacho-Quinn taking the lead, outpacing her formidable opponents in a season-best and meeting record time of 12.45 seconds. In her first hurdle race of the year, Camacho-Quinn displayed remarkable recovery after a slow start, securing a commanding victory. Close on her heels was the World 60m hurdles champion and record holder Devynne Charlton, who finished in 12.49 seconds, underscoring the intense level of competition. The event also saw impressive performances from other top athletes. Cyrena Samba-Mayela set a new French national record with a time of 12.55 seconds, placing third, while former world champion Danielle Williams was narrowly edged into fourth place with a time of 12.56 seconds. Tobi Amusan, the current World Record holder in the women’s 100m Hurdles, completed the race in 12.58 seconds, finishing fifth. This outcome may seem surprising for Amusan, who set a World Record of 12.12 seconds previously. However, it’s important to recognize that the season is still in its early stages, and athletes typically improve their performance as they approach major championships like the Olympics. Amusan, known for her ability to peak at crucial moments, is expected to intensify her preparations in response to this setback. Looking ahead, the competition in women's 100m Hurdles remains fierce, with every athlete aiming to lower their times further as the Olympic Games approach. The drive to not only break records but also to achieve a sub-12-second finish adds an extra layer of excitement to the event. As these athletes gear up for more races, the stage is set for riveting confrontations, with each looking to solidify her status in the sport. In conclusion, while Amusan’s performance at Xiamen might not have met her usual standards, it should be viewed more as a motivational challenge rather than a cause for concern. With her sights set on achieving Olympic glory and claiming her fourth Diamond League title, Amusan is expected to come back stronger, aiming to reclaim her dominance against her rivals in forthcoming events. 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

Davido Inaugurates 'Faculty of Music and Arts' Course at International University in Kampala Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Mar 30, 2024 ​ A campus facility has been christened 'Davido Hall' in honor of the renowned artist. @IUEA Renowned Nigerian musician Davido has extended his artistic footprint by introducing a novel 'Faculty of Music and Arts' at the International University of East Africa (IUEA) in Kampala, Uganda. This development has ignited a wave of excitement among his extensive fanbase, as evidenced by the widespread sharing of the news across social media platforms. In a ceremonious event hosted by the university, Davido was celebrated with a unique accolade bearing his name. This tribute was further amplified by the unveiling of a newly erected hall on the campus, aptly named 'Davido Hall', in recognition of his contributions to music and arts. The inauguration of the ' Faculty of Music and Arts' was marked by Davido cutting a ribbon affixed to a signboard that heralded the commencement of the course. This significant gesture underscored the official launch and Davido's pivotal role in enriching the academic landscape at IUEA. The reaction on social media following this announcement was overwhelmingly positive, with fans and supporters expressing their admiration and support for Davido's latest achievement. 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

Landslide Victory Amidst Dispute: Tshisekedi Re-elected with 73% in the DRC Election Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Dianna Tran Dec 31, 2023 ​ In the recent presidential election in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), incumbent President Felix Tshisekedi has been re-elected for a second term, securing more than 73% of the vote. This result places him well ahead of his nearest rivals, businessman Moise Katumbi and former energy executive Martin Fayulu, who received over 18% and over 5% of the vote respectively. The election process, however, has been marred by controversy and accusations of irregularities. The opposition presidential candidates have raised concerns over election day inconsistencies, including the unscheduled extension of voting beyond December 20. These irregularities have led them to question the credibility of the results and call for the annulment of the election. Despite these concerns, the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) has stated that it is committed to delivering a free and fair vote. The election's voter turnout was over 43%, according to Denis Kadima, the head of the CENI. The provisional results were announced in the capital Kinshasa, indicating that Tshisekedi had obtained over 13 million votes out of more than 18 million valid votes. In response to the release of the provisional results, a group of the main opposition presidential candidates urged their supporters to protest in the streets, demanding fresh elections with a new electoral body. The DRC, despite its vast mineral wealth, remains one of the world's poorest countries and has a history of contentious and often disputed elections. Tshisekedi's election as president in 2018 was also accompanied by allegations of vote-rigging and fraud. The situation remains tense, with the opposition's rejection of the election results and calls for public demonstrations against what they describe as electoral fraud​​​​​​​​. 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

Protecting Forest Guardians: The Struggle of Congo's Pygmy People for Their Land and Rights Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Feb 27, 2024 ​ A young pygmy in deep Congo Forest ready to harvest fruits The Democratic Republic of Congo's Pygmy community, historically revered as the "Masters of the Forest," is facing significant challenges as they are being pushed out of their ancestral lands due to the establishment and expansion of national parks and conservation areas. This displacement not only threatens their traditional way of life, which is deeply intertwined with the forest, but also disregards their profound knowledge and sustainable practices that have contributed to the preservation of these ecosystems for generations. Despite their invaluable role in forest conservation, the Pygmies' rights and contributions are often overlooked, leading to their marginalization and exclusion from decision-making processes related to land management and conservation efforts. The international community is beginning to recognize the critical role that indigenous groups like the Pygmies play in protecting forests, which are vital for biodiversity and as a buffer against climate change. There is a growing call for legal reforms to secure land tenure for indigenous communities, acknowledging their stewardship of the environment. In DRC, they are between 600,000 and 700,000 in number, according to a 2019 Equator Initiative report, in a country of around 100 million people, per 2022 World Bank data. While these communities share ancestry, their names vary depending on location. In northern Kivu, for example, they are the Batwa or Bambuti. In Central African Republic, the Baaka live in Lobaye forest. Regardless of location, these communities face discrimination, human rights violations, lack of food, lack of land rights and marginalization by other groups and national policymakers. Ensuring the Pygmies' active participation in conservation efforts and legal recognition of their land rights can enhance forest preservation efforts while also safeguarding their cultural heritage and way of life​. 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 Refutes US Accusations Over Goma IDP Camp Bombing Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire May 6, 2024 Yolanda Makolo Rwanda government spokesperson Rwanda has strongly denied US allegations of its involvement in the recent bombing of an IDP camp in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). In a forceful rebuttal, the Rwandan government called these claims unfounded and criticized the United States for not awaiting the results of an official investigation. The attack on the Mugunga IDP camp, which tragically killed at least nine individuals, including seven children, has escalated tensions in the region. The US State Department attributed the strike to positions held by the Rwandan Defence Forces (RDF) and the M23 rebel group, which is allegedly supported by Rwanda. In response, Rwanda emphasized that assigning blame without proper investigation undermines the credibility of the US as a neutral facilitator in regional conflicts. The government statement highlighted ongoing concerns about the security situation in Eastern DRC, including the military escalation and the severe humanitarian impact on local populations. Furthermore, Rwanda accused the DRC government of failing to manage its internal affairs, noting that accusations against Rwanda have become a recurring theme to deflect from DRC's governance issues. Also Read: Why the Us blames Rwanda on the Mugunga displacement camp in Goma Rwanda remains firm in its stance, asserting that it will take necessary measures to defend its sovereignty against any external threats, including those purported by the DRC leadership. This contentious situation highlights the complex dynamics in the Great Lakes region, where geopolitical interests and internal conflicts frequently intersect, leading to international disputes and diplomatic challenges. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Kenya Considers TikTok Restrictions Amid Data Security Concerns Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 24, 2024 ​ Nairobi, Kenya - In a move to bolster cybersecurity, the Kenyan government is contemplating restrictions on the use of TikTok by government officials, citing concerns over sensitive data protection and national security. Interior Cabinet Secretary, Kithure Kindiki, revealed to parliament that the National Security Council (NSC) is rigorously assessing the potential threats posed by social media platforms, with a spotlight on TikTok. Amid rising debates on digital privacy, Kindiki emphasized the collaborative efforts of the National Police Service (NPS), National Intelligence Service (NIS), Ministry of Defence, and the ICT sector in securing Kenya's cyberspace from both internal and external threats. The NSC's ongoing deliberation aims to determine the necessity of a TikTok ban for public officials to safeguard critical data. The dialogue around TikTok's usage by individuals with access to crucial government information was sparked by Kuria East MP Marwa Gitayama during a Public Petitions committee session. Notably, countries like China and the United States have already implemented restrictions on TikTok among public servants, raising questions about Kenya's stance on the matter. This discourse aligns with a broader petition advocating for TikTok's operational shutdown in Kenya, driven by concerns over the platform's dissemination of explicit content and its implications on youth, cultural, and religious values. The government's proactive engagement with TikTok and ongoing stakeholder consultations signal an imminent policy shift, underscoring the intricate balance between digital innovation and national security . 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 Seeks Maize Import from Uganda Amid Severe Drought Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Apr 28, 2024 ​ Maize commonly known as corn in the garden Zambia, grappling with severe drought conditions, has approached Uganda for an import of over 500,000 metric tonnes of maize. This move comes as a critical measure to mitigate the risk of starvation affecting over two million Zambians. In February 2024, the Zambian government, facing a significant shortfall in maize production across 84 of its 116 districts, imposed a ban on maize grain and maize flour exports. This decision underscores the dire agricultural situation in Zambia, the second-largest maize producer in Southern Africa. The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal, Industry and Fisheries of Uganda confirmed receiving a formal request from Lusaka. "We are assessing our capacity to meet Zambia's demand for maize grain, ensuring quality and volume considerations are addressed," stated David Kasura-Kyomukama, the ministry's Permanent Secretary, in a recent correspondence. This potential partnership highlights the regional dependencies on agricultural produce and the urgent need for cooperative efforts to address food security challenges. Zambia's request to Uganda could affect regional maize markets, especially with South Africa already under pressure to fulfill its domestic and regional commitments. Last year, Zambia declined a similar request from Kenya, which traditionally imports maize from Tanzania, to prioritize its food security. The Tanzanian government has recently tightened export regulations, complicating maize trade routes in East Africa and prompting countries like Kenya to explore alternative sources. Forward-Looking: Regional Cooperation on Food Security As Zambia and Uganda discuss the logistical and regulatory frameworks for the maize trade, it is clear that enhanced regional cooperation and sustainable agricultural practices will be vital in addressing the impacts of climate variability on food production. 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 Surpasses European Trade Figures in Historic Economic Milestone Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link ​ Feb 23, 2024 ​ President Museveni Kaguta of Uganda and Europe met, marking a pivotal moment in trade relations A New Trade Era For the first time, Uganda has set a new precedent in international trade by surpassing Europe, the world's largest market, in bilateral trade figures. This landmark achievement highlights Uganda's strategic expansion and diversification of its trade partners beyond traditional markets, emphasizing the country's growing influence and capability in the global trade arena. Strengthening Regional Ties Key to this achievement is Uganda's focus on strengthening bilateral relations within the African continent, exemplified by recent agreements with Tanzania to enhance trade facilitation and infrastructure development. Such initiatives, including significant reductions in road tolls for cargo trucks and the establishment of cooperative projects like the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), have been instrumental in boosting intra-African trade volumes, showcasing a successful model of regional integration and cooperation​​​​. Strategic Partnerships and Future Prospects Uganda's trade strategy also aligns with broader regional trade agreements within the East African Community (EAC) and engagements with the European Union (EU) to foster economic partnerships and sustainable development. These strategic alignments not only bolster Uganda's trade portfolio but also open up avenues for future trade expansion and diversification, setting a positive trajectory for the nation's economic growth and regional influence​​. This remarkable milestone for Uganda not only underscores the potential and dynamism of African markets but also signifies a shift towards more balanced and diversified global trade relationships, promising a future of increased prosperity and interconnectivity for the region. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Zambia Airways Launches New Routes to East Africa Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Jun 26, 2024 Zambia airways Zambia Airways (ZA) is set to commence its inaugural flights into East Africa this week, marking a significant expansion of their route network. The new service, flight ZN 504, will connect Lusaka to Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and Nairobi in Kenya, operating on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. In a recent statement, Zambia Airways CEO Thomas Woldesenbet confirmed the inaugural flights are scheduled for this Thursday, with many travelers already booked. This new development is part of Zambia Airways' strategic efforts to broaden its reach and offer more travel options to its customers. 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