Women's Pivotal Role in Shaping Early Childhood Development in South Africa Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 9, 2024 ​ South African kids getting access to childhood education In South Africa, the vital early childhood development (ECD) sector, primarily led by women, extends services beyond mere childcare to education, nutrition, and safety, simultaneously fostering community employment and business sustainability. Traditionally overseen by the Department of Social Development and now under the Basic Education banner, the sector thrives on an entrepreneurial spirit, embracing both for-profit and non-profit models amidst informal economic practices. Despite their dedication and long hours, these female ECD practitioners face significant financial and professional hurdles, highlighted by a World Bank report on the exploitation in the informal sector. Many ECD leaders, holding qualifications from vocational colleges, face barriers to university education, restricting their potential to enhance their businesses and incomes. Investigating these challenges, my doctoral research explored the recognition of prior learning (RPL) as a pathway for these women to access higher education, potentially elevating their socio-economic status and contributing to societal advancement, given the crucial role of ECD in child development. Interviews with 11 Cape Town-based ECD professionals revealed systemic educational roadblocks. Despite possessing vocational qualifications, their university applications were often rejected due to insufficient secondary education results or age factors. The inconsistency and complexity in the RPL application process across universities further complicates their academic aspirations. One participant's successful yet stalled RPL journey due to university administrative inefficiencies underscores the need for a unified RPL policy and greater university acceptance of vocational ECD qualifications. Such reforms could significantly empower these women and, by extension, the broader community, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive educational framework in South 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

South African Election Results Webpage Restored After Technical Glitch Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond May 31, 2024 ​ With ANC still leading with 41.888% currently Friday, May 31, 2024, 10:05 ‎(UTC)‎ Partial results from South Africa's parliamentary election reappeared on the Electoral Commission's website on Friday, following a two-hour outage caused by a technical glitch. When the results page was restored, it showed the African National Congress (ANC) leading with 42.1% of the vote, with results in from 54.9% of polling stations. The Democratic Alliance (DA) followed with 23.7%, uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) with 10.8%, and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) with 9.6%. The glitch occurred after the results page had been functioning smoothly since the count began late Wednesday, following the election. The data went blank around 0500 GMT and was restored shortly after 0700 GMT. "The Electoral Commission confirms that it has experienced interruption in the replication of data from its national data centre and the various Results Operation Centres," stated the Commission. " The data in the data centre remains intact and the results have not been compromised. All services have since been restored and the leaderboard is working normally. Result processing continues unaffected." 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

Rayon Sports Advance to Peace Cup Semis After Thrashing Vision FC Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Feb 21, 2024 ​ Gikundiro fans cheering up their team as they crash their opponent Rayon Sports aka Gikundiro secured their berth in the semi-finals of the Peace Cup with a commanding 5-1 aggregate triumph over second-tier outfit Vison FC in the quarterfinals. Maintaining a two-goal lead from the first leg, The Blues extended their dominance at Kigali Pele Stadium on Tuesday, clinching the second leg 3-1. Manager Julien Mette implemented strategic adjustments to his initial lineup, introducing Youssef Rharb, Paul Gomis, Felix Ndekwe, and Francois Mugisha for the second leg. Ndekwe initiated the scoring in the 12th minute, capitalizing on Kevin Muhire's delivery to propel The Blues ahead. Elie Ganijuru added to the tally in the 24th minute, with his cross deflecting off the goalkeeper's hand and finding the net. While Vision FC attempted a comeback, Jean Claude Harerimana narrowed the gap with a goal in the 51st minute. Harerimana aimed for an equalizer with a long-range effort in the 54th minute, but Rayon's goalkeeper Khadim Ndiaye made a crucial save, albeit sustaining an injury in the process. In stoppage time, Rayon earned a penalty after substitute Arsene Tuyisenge was fouled in the box. Striker Paul Gomis confidently converted the penalty, marking his inaugural goal in 'Blues' colors. Rayon now awaits the winner between Police and Gorilla FC for their semi-final encounter. More details about Rayon Sports, check out their official website rayonsports.com 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

Is Kenya’s Non-NATO Ally Status Important for Regional Security Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Griffith Sarah May 27, 2024 ​ Kenya's President Ruto Appointing New Chief of Defense Forces Kenya’s designation as a major non-NATO ally by the US significantly elevates its role in regional and international security. This status was announced during President William Ruto’s historic state visit to the US, where he discussed the deployment of 1,000 Kenyan police officers to Haiti with President Joe Biden. Enhanced Military Capabilities Kenya, now the first sub-Saharan African nation with this status, gains privileged access to advanced military equipment, training, and financial assistance for defense. This support is vital as Kenya continues its fight against al-Shabab in Somalia and manages security challenges along its borders. Strategic Peacekeeping Roles Kenya’s track record in regional peace initiatives, such as mediating the Ethiopia-Tigray peace deal and engaging in the Great Lakes region's conflicts, underscores its reliability. The US's $200 million pledge for Kenya's UN-backed Haiti mission is a testament to Washington's confidence in Nairobi's capabilities. Countering Global Influence Kenya's upgraded status also helps the US counter growing Russian and Chinese influence in Africa . With enhanced security cooperation, Kenya can bolster intelligence gathering and strategic deployments, addressing threats more effectively. Learning from Other African Nations Other African nations, such as Tunisia, Morocco, and Egypt, have seen significant military advancements due to their non-NATO ally status. Tunisia's military reforms, Egypt's longstanding US support, and Morocco's counterterrorism expertise highlight the potential benefits for Kenya. In summary, Kenya's new status as a major non-NATO ally strengthens its defense capabilities, enhances its regional peacekeeping role, and positions it as a key US partner in Africa. This strategic partnership is crucial for addressing security challenges and promoting stability in 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

Prince David Osei Declares No More On-Screen Kisses in Movies Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Mar 3, 2024 ​ On screen romantic Prince David who declared that he will no longer play kissing roles in movies. © from Instagram/princedavidosei Award-winning Ghanaian actor Prince David Osei has made a surprising announcement: he will no longer participate in kissing scenes in films. Known for his romantic roles, Osei feels that he has outgrown such intimate on-screen moments. In an exclusive interview on Accra FM’s midmorning show, he candidly shared his evolving perspective on on-screen romance. “Currently, I feel that I have moved past the need for such scenes,” Osei stated. Earlier in his career, he willingly embraced racy roles that involved kissing, seeking recognition in the industry. However, he now reflects with uncertainty on those passionate scenes. “I sit down and look at the images of my colleagues I kissed and wonder if I indeed kissed all of them in the name of a movie,” he revealed. Prince David Osei’s decision marks a significant shift in his artistic journey, emphasizing his commitment to more diverse and challenging roles. As fans eagerly await his upcoming projects, they’ll witness a new chapter in his cinematic evolution. 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 Rejuvenates Its Bank-Civil Society Committee Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond Apr 27, 2024 ​ Working session with Afrobarometers : Josephine Appiah Nyamekye Sanny, Communications and Knowledge Manager (Afrobarometer) - Maame Akua Amoah Twum Director Communications (Afrobarometer) - Edward NSOBE Capacity Building Officer, African Development Bank - Minemba TRAORE West Africa Officer, African Development Bank The African Development Bank (AfDB) has renewed its Bank-Civil Society Committee, reinforcing its commitment to inclusive growth across Africa. Zeneb Toure, the Manager of Civil Society and Community Engagement at AfDB, highlighted the committee's role as an advisory body aimed at enhancing civil society's impact on the continent's development. The committee, continuing the efforts of its predecessors from 2020-2023, will focus on mobilizing civil society organizations for Bank initiatives, engaging in policy discussions, and promoting knowledge exchange. The Bank promises regular updates on the Committee's progress in fostering sustainable development through powerful partnerships with civil society organizations. 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

British Adventurer Completes Epic 10,000-Mile Run Across Africa in Under a Year Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Apr 9, 2024 ​ British athlete Russ Cook was greeted by enthusiastic followers upon reaching his final destination in Ras Angela, Tunisia's northernmost tip in Africa, this past Sunday. Photo: skynews After an arduous journey spanning nearly a year, Russ Cook, a British endurance athlete and charity fundraiser, triumphantly concluded his monumental run across Africa at its northernmost point in Tunisia this Sunday. Gathering on a rocky terrain by the Mediterranean, a crowd of enthusiastic supporters welcomed Cook, who traversed over 16,000 kilometers (approximately 10,000 miles) through 16 nations in 352 days. Despite the physical toll, Cook, hailing from Worthing, Southern England, humorously remarked on his fatigue after completing a trek that saw him navigate through diverse terrains including jungles and deserts, circumvent conflict-ridden areas, and overcome numerous challenges such as theft, injuries, and bureaucratic hurdles. Embarking on his journey from Cape Agulhas, South Africa's southernmost point, on April 22, 2023, Cook aimed to finish the run in 240 days, planning to cover more than a marathon's distance daily. However, his expedition faced significant obstacles, including a robbery at gunpoint in Angola and back pain in Nigeria, which temporarily slowed his pace. A visa complication nearly halted his progress into Algeria, but was resolved following intervention by the Algerian embassy in the UK. Cook's motivation for the run extends beyond personal achievement; he has been vocal about his use of running as a tool for managing mental health issues. His previous endeavor involved running from Istanbul to Worthing in 68 days, covering about 3,000 kilometers (around 2,000 miles). The run across Africa has successfully raised over 690,000 pounds (about $870,000) for two charities: the Running Charity, which supports homeless youth, and Sandblast, aiding displaced Western Sahara residents. Reflecting on the journey, Cook shared his anticipation for a celebration on the beach, featuring a performance by the British band Soft Play and strawberry daiquiris, marking a well-deserved conclusion to his extraordinary feat. 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

Rwandan President Faces Criticism for Attending Arsenal Game During Genocide Commemoration Period Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Griffith Sarah Apr 19, 2024 ​ As Rwanda marked the 30th anniversary of its 1994 genocide, President Paul Kagame faced scrutiny for his decision to attend a Champions League football match between Arsenal and Bayern Munich in North London. This visit coincided with a national period of mourning, during which Rwandan authorities had advised against celebratory and sporting events. On April 9 , the same week Rwanda remembered the over one million victims of its genocide, President Kagame was in the UK not only to watch the football match but also to visit Prime Minister Rishi Sunak at No. 10 Downing Street. This meeting, announced to civil servants with only a few days' notice, primarily focused on the controversial UK-Rwanda deportation deal, which involves sending asylum seekers to Kigali for processing. Back in Rwanda, the national police's website had listed restrictions for the commemorative week, advising against activities such as sports competitions and public celebrations. Despite this, a government spokesperson later clarified that these restrictions were based on outdated guidelines and insisted that the current government policy did not prohibit such activities. The president's decision to attend the football match has sparked debates both domestically and internationally. Opposition leader Victoire Ingabire Umuhoza criticized the mixed messages sent by the government's actions, highlighting the confusion it caused among Rwandans who are solemnly commemorating the genocide. It is understandable that the people in Rwanda and abroad question the fact the president went to watch a football match during the period of mourning for the victims of the genocide against Tutsi – especially since the authorities here in Rwanda had issued directives during this period. It creates confusion among Rwandans,” Victoire Umuhoza said. President Kagame, who has led Rwanda since 2000 and is known for his staunch support of Arsenal — evidenced by his frequent social media posts about the club — has previously faced criticism for his government's strict control over political expression and the suppression of opposition. This incident has once again brought to light the complex dynamics of leadership and remembrance in Rwanda, as the country continues to navigate the delicate balance between honoring its past and moving forward. 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 African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) will make Africa the world's largest free trade area and boost Africa's GDP. Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Feb 27, 2024 ​ Symbolic Tapestry of African Harmony covering the spirit of interconnectedness and the free flow of hope across Africa's vast landscapes (AfCFTA) The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) most times reffered to as (ZLECAF) is set to be a significant milestone for Africa, heralding what many experts and stakeholders are calling a "historic turning point" for the continent's economy. The initiative aims to create a single market for goods, services, capital, and people across Africa, thereby increasing intra-African trade, which has been relatively low compared to Africa's trade with other regions. This move is expected to have a substantial positive impact on Africa's overall GDP. A key aspect of ZLECAF's potential impact is the liberalization of tariff and non-tariff barriers, which would facilitate the free movement of goods and services across the continent. This could lead to a more diversified and sophisticated industrial and service sector in participating countries, driven by access to a larger continental market. For instance, Ivorian industries, among others, stand to gain significantly from this development, provided they are well-prepared to leverage the opportunities that the larger market presents. However, alongside these opportunities, some challenges need to be addressed to fully realize the benefits of ZLECAF. One of the primary concerns is the need for countries to improve their productive capacities and diversify their industrial offerings to compete effectively in the larger market. There is also a need for coherent and complementary commercial, industrial, and financial policies to support the implementation of ZLECAF. Moreover, the implementation of ZLECAF could lead to increased competition, necessitating that companies across Africa enhance their competitiveness. The success of this initiative will require a concerted effort from both public authorities and the private sector to prepare adequately for the changes and challenges ahead. In summary, the implementation of ZLECAF represents a transformative opportunity for Africa's economic integration and growth. By eliminating trade barriers and creating a single continental market, ZLECAF has the potential to significantly boost intra-African trade, contribute to economic diversification, and increase the continent's overall GDP. However, achieving these outcomes will depend on the ability of African countries and businesses to navigate the challenges and leverage the opportunities presented by this historic initiative. 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

DR Congo Appoints New Government After Months of Delay Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond May 29, 2024 ​ President Felix Tshisekedi The Democratic Republic of Congo has appointed a new government, ending months of political uncertainty. President Felix Tshisekedi, who won a second term in the 2023 elections, faced delays in forming a new cabinet due to internal disputes. On April 1, he appointed Judith Suminwa as the country's first female prime minister, followed by the appointment of his ex-chief of staff, Vital Kamerhe, as parliament speaker on May 22. The new cabinet, announced by spokesperson Tina Salama on state broadcaster RTNC, comprises 54 ministers, a slight reduction from the previous 57. Key appointments include Guy Kabombo Muadiamvita as defence minister, Doudou Fwamba Likunde as finance minister, and Kizito Pakabomba overseeing the mines ministry. The downsizing is less than expected despite pressure to reduce costs. Muadiamvita, a lawyer, previously led Congo's official gazette. His role as defence minister is crucial given the ongoing conflict with the M23 rebel group in eastern Congo. The president's communications director, Erik Nyindu, emphasized the need for compromise within the ruling coalition, noting that it was preferable to conflict. Tshisekedi first formed a government in 2019 in coalition with his predecessor Joseph Kabila, which ended in 2021. The current Sacred Union coalition now holds around 95% of National Assembly 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

Liam, Son of Mohbad, Celebrates First Birthday in Adorable Football Attire Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Apr 12, 2024 ​ Online Community Sends Blessings for Longevity as Mohbad’s Son Turns One. @withinnigeria@iamohbad The son of the beloved late Nigerian singer, Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, known professionally as Mohbad, reached his first birthday milestone on April 12, 2024. The young Liam became the center of attention across various social media platforms as his birthday celebration ensued. For the special occasion, Liam was captured in delightful football-themed photographs that quickly captivated the online community. He was adorned in a charming blue and white jersey representing Manchester City, complete with a coordinating white headband and sneakers, embracing the spirit of the sport. The charming images featured him engaging with a football, displaying an adorable attempt at a kick. The commemorative photos were shared by Hayan Empire, a friend of the late Mohbad, prompting a wave of interactions from fans and followers. Many remarked on Liam's striking resemblance to his father, while an outpouring of prayers and heartfelt wishes for his future and longevity filled the comments, echoing the collective sentiment of the community. 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

State of Disaster in Zimbabwe Announced by President Mnangagwa in Response to Drought Caused by El Niño Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 3, 2024 ​ Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Harare, Zimbabwe – In a somber announcement, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has declared the current drought in Zimbabwe, spurred by the El Niño weather phenomenon, a national disaster. The government is now appealing for over $2 billion in humanitarian aid to combat the severe food shortages affecting millions. This declaration comes on the heels of similar distress calls from neighboring nations like Zambia and Malawi, spotlighting the wider humanitarian crisis unfolding across Southern Africa due to erratic weather patterns. The Scale of the Crisis Zimbabwe, known for its rich agricultural heritage, finds itself in a precarious position as over 2.7 million of its citizens face the grim prospect of hunger this year alone. President Mnangagwa highlighted that a staggering 80% of the nation has been hit with inadequate rainfall, leading to widespread crop failures. Strategic Responses to the Drought In response to the crisis, the Zimbabwean government is setting its sights on winter cropping to bolster food reserves. A collaborative effort with the private sector is also underway to facilitate the importation of essential grains to mitigate the shortage. The Role of Humanitarian Agencies Agencies like the World Food Programme (WFP) are at the forefront of the relief efforts, having provided sustenance to 270,000 individuals in critical districts between January and March. However, with the situation escalating, there is an urgent call for increased donor support to address the burgeoning needs. Understanding El Niño El Niño is a complex weather pattern characterized by the warming of ocean surface temperatures in the Pacific, which can lead to widespread changes in weather across the globe. For Zimbabwe, this has meant reduced rainfall and consequent crop failures, particularly in regions reliant on maize, a staple food. The drought's impact stretches beyond Zimbabwe, with nations like Botswana, Angola, Mozambique, and Madagascar also grappling with food insecurity. This collective challenge underscores the need for a coordinated regional and international response to avert further humanitarian disasters. Call to Action As Zimbabwe navigates this crisis, the call for global solidarity and support is louder than ever. The plight of millions hangs in the balance, awaiting a hand of help to pull them through one of the most challenging periods in the nation's recent histor y. 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