The three giants of EAC Commit to Integration in Zanzibar Summit Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 19, 2024 ​ Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni (left) presents a framed image of a newspaper report on the re-formation of the East African Community In a pivotal meeting held in Zanzibar on March 18, 2024, the presidents of Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya demonstrated a unified commitment to enhancing East African Community (EAC) integration. Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan hosted Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni and Kenyan President William Ruto, marking a significant step towards regional unity and cooperation. Reviving the Spirit of EAC The leaders' discussions in Zanzibar echoed the historical milestones of the EAC, originally founded by the three nations post-independence, and its resurgence in 1996 after a temporary dissolution in 1977. With the EAC currently comprising eight member states, the summit underscored the importance of bolstering the bloc's integration, particularly through public engagement on the EAC Political Confederation model. Fostering Rapprochement and Collaboration President Ruto's engagement in the summit, his second with Museveni this year, signified a move towards reconciliation amid past trade disputes, emphasizing the collective vision of market expansion, economic interdependence, and regional stability. The leaders' discussions also touched upon supporting Raila Odinga's bid for the African Union Chairperson role, highlighting the need for a unified regional stance. Addressing Challenges and Looking Ahead While the Zanzibar declaration did not outline specific agreements, it addressed the longstanding oil importation disputes and the potential for collaborative solutions, including market access and infrastructure sharing among Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. The summit's outcomes aim to reinvigorate the EAC's integration agenda, ensuring that the benefits of a unified market extend to the region's populace and contribute to peace and security, crucial for the bloc's success. The meeting in Zanzibar represents a pivotal moment for the EAC , as the leaders' renewed commitment to integration and cooperation sets a positive trajectory for the region's future. 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

France injects shs12 trillion ($3 billion) investment to Uganda. Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link ​ Feb 29, 2024 ​ Xavier Sticker the current French Ambassador in Uganda France has committed to a significant investment in Uganda, allocating $3 billion (approximately 12 trillion Ugandan shillings) over the next three years, targeting critical sectors including agriculture and oil & gas. This announcement was made during a meeting between the French Ambassador to Uganda, Xavier Sticker, and Uganda's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gen. Jeje Odongo, held at the Ministry's headquarters in Kampala on February 27, 2024. The discussions, aimed at bolstering the bilateral ties and cooperative efforts between the two nations, were described as productive. France's investment is seen as a gesture of its strong commitment to aiding Uganda's socio-economic advancement. Minister Odongo expressed his gratitude for this substantial investment, highlighting it as a testament to the deep-seated friendship and partnership between Uganda and France. He emphasized the pivotal role this investment would play in propelling Uganda towards its developmental aspirations and enhancing the quality of life for its populace. Both parties reiterated their dedication to maintaining open dialogue and working collaboratively towards common goals, thereby strengthening the robust partnership that exists between the two countries. In a related development , Uganda has recently been in the spotlight for its significant gold discoveries, which are expected to have a substantial impact on the country's economic landscape and potentially attract further international investments. This new gold find underscores Uganda's growing prominence as a key player in the global mining sector. 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

Kagame's quest for one sided genocide narrative Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Griffith Sarah Apr 14, 2024 ​ Rwandan President Paul Kagame at U.S-Africa leader's summit Rwandan President Paul Kagame voiced concerns about the U.S. not explicitly recognizing the 1994 Rwandan genocide as primarily targeting Tutsis. During commemorations marking the genocide's 30th anniversary, Kagame highlighted discussions with former U.S. President Bill Clinton and reacted to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s failure to specify the victims in a recent statement. President Kagame emphasized the importance of acknowledging the Tutsi victims during the genocide, which claimed about 800,000 lives. He stressed that such recognition is crucial to respecting the memory of the victims and addressing historical inaccuracies. The U.S. President Joe Biden, however, did refer to the victims appropriately in his statement, acknowledging the overwhelming majority of Tutsis, along with Hutus and Twa, who suffered in the genocide. This year's commemoration comes amid Kagame’s critique of Western inaction during the genocide and ongoing tensions regarding Rwanda's role in neighboring Congo. Kagame maintains that Rwandan forces act to prevent further regional instability, countering accusations of supporting rebel groups in Congo. As Rwanda continues to strive for reconciliation and national unity, the conversation around the commemoration of the genocide remains a poignant issue, reflecting on both past atrocities and ongoing efforts towards healing and justice. 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

Iranian Drones Shift Battlefield Dynamics in Sudanese Civil War Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 11, 2024 ​ The deployment of these more advanced drones marks a significant upgrade from the SAF's earlier reliance on older UAVs and conventional military assets In the ongoing Sudanese civil war, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) have notably shifted the battlefield dynamics using Iranian-made drones. This strategic enhancement has enabled the SAF to reclaim territories near the capital by effectively countering the Rapid Support Force (RSF), a formidable rival paramilitary group. These drones have been particularly effective since their deployment from the Wadi Sayidna base, located north of Khartoum, where they have been instrumental in monitoring and targeting RSF positions. The deployment of these more advanced drones marks a significant upgrade from the SAF's earlier reliance on older UAVs and conventional military assets, which had limited success against RSF fighters entrenched in densely populated areas. Eyewitness accounts from Omdurman, a critical city adjacent to Khartoum, highlight the drones' role in disrupting RSF operations and facilitating ground force advancements. Despite the clear battlefield utility of these drones, the origin and procurement methods of these Iranian-made UAVs remain undisclosed, with senior Sudanese military officials denying direct acquisition from Iran. The resurgence of diplomatic ties between Sudan and Iran has been noted, yet official military cooperation has not been confirmed. The RSF has recognized its setbacks in Omdurman and attributes them to the SAF's use of these drones, among other military assets, although it has not provided concrete evidence . Iran's support for the Sudanese army through these drones is viewed as part of a broader strategy to cement its influence in strategically important regions like the Red Sea. This area is critical for global power dynamics, particularly given its proximity to conflict zones like Yemen, where Iranian-backed groups have been active. The introduction of Iranian UAVs in Sudan complicates the geopolitical landscape, potentially affecting Sudan's relations with international stakeholders, including the United States. The U.S. has expressed concerns over Iranian military support in Sudan, emphasizing the need for careful navigation of international alliances and support mechanisms in the region. The conflict, which has escalated tensions and humanitarian crises in Sudan, is further complicated by regional dynamics and international interests, underscoring the complex interplay of local conflicts and global geopolitics. 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

Tragic Floods in Central Kenya: Dam Burst Claims 42 Lives, Including 17 Minors Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Apr 29, 2024 ​ A team of rescue workers trying to reach out to the affected people Early Monday in central Kenya's Mai Mahiu area, a catastrophic dam burst led to deadly floods that have claimed the lives of at least 42 people, including 17 minors. The disaster has escalated the crisis in regions already battered by severe weather, with the death toll from recent flooding exceeding 140. The aftermath of the dam collapse was severe, with significant damage to local infrastructure. Images shared on social media by Kenyan media, the Kenya Red Cross, and highway authorities depicted scenes of devastation, including uprooted trees and vehicles ensnared in debris. Naivasha police commander, Stephen Kirui, confirmed the death toll from the site of the tragedy in Kijabe, highlighting ongoing search and rescue operations. This season's heavy rains have wreaked havoc across East Africa, not only in Kenya but also in neighboring countries like Tanzania and Burundi, causing extensive displacement and infrastructural damage. In Kenya alone, excluding the Mai Mahiu incident, official reports as of Monday noted 103 fatalities and the displacement of over 185,000 individuals due to floods. The Kenya Red Cross has been actively involved, providing aid and conducting rescue missions, including the recovery of bodies from a capsized boat in Tana River. To ensure public safety, Kenya's education ministry has delayed the start of the new school term by a week, citing the severe impact of the rains on school facilities. The floods have inflicted significant damage on critical infrastructure, including roads and bridges. A notable incident occurred at an underpass near Nairobi's international airport, though airport operations continue. The floods have also brought hydroelectric dams to capacity, raising fears of further overflows. The repeated flooding incidents highlight the urgent need for robust disaster preparedness and climate adaptation strategies. As rescue and relief efforts continue, the focus is on supporting the affected communities and reinforcing infrastructure to withstand future extreme weather 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

Ethiopia Advances Towards the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Trial Trading Phase Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 23, 2024 ​ Gebremeskel Chala, Minister of the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration (MoTRI) Ethiopia is gearing up to initiate trial trading under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), signaling a significant leap in the continent's trade integration efforts. According to Gebremeskel Chala, Minister of the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration (MoTRI), Ethiopia is aligning its strategies to engage in the preliminary exchange of goods with selected African nations. The move comes as part of Ethiopia's commitment to the AfCFTA, aiming to eliminate 90% of import tariffs on agricultural and industrial products over the next decade. Additionally, the country plans to gradually remove tariffs on 7% of goods and exempt strategic items, ensuring policy flexibility. By approving tariffs for 6,000 commodities, Ethiopia positions itself as a key player in what is anticipated to become the world's largest free trade zone. This development is in line with the African Union's Agenda 2063, which envisions an economically robust continent. This strategic step, endorsed by African Union member states, marks a milestone in realizing intra-African trade potentials and fostering economic integration across the continent. 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

Police Deploy Tear Gas Amid Cost-of-Living Protests in Benin Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Griffith Sarah Apr 28, 2024 ​ The demonstrators, organized by several influential trade unions Escalating tensions erupted into chaos as police in Benin fired tear gas to disrupt a major protest over the soaring cost of living on Saturday. The demonstration, organized by several influential trade unions, was met with a stern response, including the arrest of prominent union leaders. Armed police established blockades around the labour council's headquarters in Cotonou, preventing access to the scheduled protest site and turning away members of the press. Despite these measures, groups of protesters managed to assemble nearby, voicing their grievances through placards and union attire. Among the arrested were Moudassirou Bachabi, leader of the General Confederation of Workers of Benin (CGTB), and Anselme Amoussou, head of CSA-Benin, as confirmed by CGTB deputy general secretary Anita Bossoukpe. In total, 18 demonstrators were detained, further intensifying the standoff. "The cost of basic necessities is just too high," said Clemence Akinocho, a protester. This sentiment is widespread as Benin struggles with inflation, particularly in essential goods such as corn, gari flour, beans, and cowpeas. Despite a recent increase, the guaranteed minimum wage in Benin remains a modest 52,000 CFA francs ($85) per month, insufficient to keep pace with escalating prices. This unrest comes at a time when the International Monetary Fund highlights a lackluster economic recovery in sub-Saharan Africa, with incomes lagging significantly behind global averages. As Benin faces economic challenges, the government's strategy, including a new sovereign dollar bond, is under scrutiny. The community and its leaders call for meaningful reforms to address the deepening economic divide. 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-DRC Relations Improve as Diplomatic Tensions Ease Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire May 13, 2024 ​ President William Ruto of Kenya and his counterpart Felix Tshisekedi of Congo In a significant diplomatic development, relations between Kenya and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are on the mend following a high-level meeting in Kinshasa. President William Ruto of Kenya sent Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi with a special message to DRC President Felix Tshisekedi, aiming to resolve a year-long standoff exacerbated by the detention of two Kenya Airways staff. The tensions, which led Kenya Airways to suspend its flights to the DRC, began to ease after the airline staff were released and flights resumed. The Thursday meeting, which included key officials from both nations, concluded with a series of agreements expected to bolster trade and cooperation. Mudavadi, who also serves as Kenya’s Foreign Affairs minister , praised President Tshisekedi's role in amicably settling the dispute and expressed optimism for strengthened bilateral relations. This thawing of relations marks a hopeful chapter in Nairobi and Kinshasa's partnership, enhancing connectivity and economic ties between the two capitals. 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

IMF Slashes Botswana's 2024 Growth Forecast Amid Diamond Market Woes Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 13, 2024 The IMF cuts Botswana's 2024 growth forecast to 1% due to declining diamond production, urging economic adjustments to manage the widening budget deficit. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has significantly reduced Botswana’s 2024 growth forecast to 1% from an earlier estimate of 3.6%, primarily due to lower diamond production. The IMF also anticipates the budget deficit to widen to 6% from 3.45% as a result of declining mineral revenues. In a statement, the IMF urged the diamond-rich southern African nation to consider slowing down new infrastructure projects to stabilize the economy. "The continued economic slowdown is mainly due to a fall in diamond production," the IMF noted in a statement released on Friday. The organization suggested that some fiscal relaxation is justified this year given the decline in mineral revenues but recommended slowing the execution of ambitious capital projects to manage the deficit and focus on those with the highest returns. Lower consumer demand and global economic weakness have impacted the outlook for diamonds, traditionally considered luxury items. In February, Finance Minister Peggy Serame projected a 4.2% growth for the economy, but the central bank later warned that this target was unlikely due to ongoing challenges in the global diamond market. Botswana derives 30-40% of its revenue and 75% of its foreign exchange earnings from diamond sales. 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

Sony's Convention Transforms the Content Creation Scene for Creatives Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Mar 29, 2024 ​ Cross sectional view of Participants. @pulse The Sony Creators Convention 2024, which concluded on March 23rd in Lagos, marked a significant milestone in the landscape of content creation, drawing to a close with a sense of achievement and inspiration among its participants. Hosted at the Nexthought Creative Hub in Lekki by Daro Umaigba, the event was a melting pot of creative minds from various sectors including art, culture, and digital content creation. The day-long convention was structured around workshops, panel discussions, and hands-on sessions designed to equip attendees with cutting-edge tools and insights, fostering a community of innovation and collaboration. The convention's core objective was to merge the realms of creativity and technology, providing a platform for creators to enhance their skills and explore new dimensions in their work. Jobin Joejoe, Managing Director at Sony Middle East and Africa, expressed pride in supporting the Nigerian creative community's relentless pursuit of innovation and creativity. The event underscored Sony's commitment to nurturing talent and facilitating connections within the creative industry. Highlighting the event were notable speakers such as Dr. Emmanuel Iwueke and Ifiok Effanga, who delved into the critical issue of intellectual property protection in the digital age. The convention also featured engaging discussions on content creation's universal appeal, led by Debo Adedayo and Maryam Apaokagi, among others. Renowned photographer Kelechi Amadi-Obi shared insights on translating inspiration into tangible outcomes, while Adaora Mbelu and Tobi Ayeni spoke on diversification of revenue streams and building enduring partnerships. The event also included specialized masterclasses, such as the one led by Anjola Awosika and Tilewa Odedina on food photography, offering attendees practical advice to elevate their creative projects. Moreover, Kontakt Pro Nigeria offered hands-on sessions, showcasing Sony’s latest digital imaging solutions and products to the attendees, enhancing their practical learning experience. In addition to educational content, the convention served as a vibrant networking hub, facilitating collaborations with leading brands like Miele Nigeria and Taeillo, among others. This convergence of creative minds and industry leaders highlighted the event's role in catalyzing creative excellence and propelling Nigerian content creators towards new professional pinnacles. The Sony Creators Convention 2024 has not only reaffirmed the importance of community and innovation in the creative industry but has also set a precedent for future endeavors aimed at elevating Nigeria's digital content creation landscape. 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

Asa Asika, Davido's Manager, Asserts That Having Multiple Big Artists on a Track is Not Typical of Afrobeats Style Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Apr 23, 2024 ​ Charting the Beat: Afrobeats Luminaries Reflect on Collaboration and Culture. Instagram/asaasika In a recent interview with the French news outlet Ventes Rap, Asa Asika, the long-time manager of Nigerian superstar Davido, shared insights into the distinct nature of collaborations within the Afrobeats genre compared to the Latin music scene. According to Asika, the collaboration trend in Latin music, where multiple high-profile artists frequently team up on a single track, contrasts sharply with the practices in the Nigerian music industry. Highlighting the differences, Asika noted, "In the Latin music industry, artists like Bad Bunny, J Balvin, and Ozuna might all appear on one record. This is partly because Spanish is the second most spoken language in America, so there's a strong push to leverage that audience. However, you'll rarely see a similar gathering on a single track in Afrobeats, such as Davido, Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Asake all together." Despite the less frequent collaborations among Nigeria's top artists, Asika pointed out that significant partnerships do occur and have contributed to the growth and international reach of Afrobeats. "There are significant collaborations, like Burna Boy and Wizkid, Davido and Kizz Daniel, and Davido and Olamide. Asake also features on Davido's album," Asika explained. He further emphasized that while collaborations among Nigeria's biggest stars might not be as common as in the Latin industry, they play a crucial role in promoting and expanding the influence of Afrobeats globally. Asika's comments underline the unique cultural and strategic differences shaping how artists in different regions collaborate to boost their music's appeal and reach. 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

Tragedy and Turmoil: The Mysterious Death of Anne Rwigara and Rwanda's Struggle for Democracy Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Alison Marsh Dec 30, 2023 ​ Anne Rwigara at 41: A Symbol of Resilience and Tragedy in Rwanda's Struggle for Democratic Expression The tragic demise of Anne Rwigara, a significant Rwandan opposition figure, has brought into sharp focus the ongoing political strife in Rwanda. Her death, under mysterious circumstances, has sparked intense speculation and concern among observers and human rights advocates worldwide. Anne Rwigara, part of a prominent family known for their outspoken criticism of President Paul Kagame's government, died at 41 in the United States. Her death followed a history of persecution faced by her family, including the incarceration of her mother, Adeline Rwigara, and her sister, Diane Rwigara, who had previously attempted to run against Kagame in the 2017 presidential elections. The family also faced financial ruin, with their assets, including a lucrative tobacco company, being seized by the government, and their four-star hotel destroyed​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​. Anne Rwigara's death came after a sudden onset of stomach pain, leading to multi-organ failure, fueling allegations of poisoning. These claims have not been substantiated, but they reflect a broader narrative of fear and suspicion surrounding political opposition in Rwanda. Her passing has been mourned widely, with many expressing their condolences and highlighting her commitment to challenging the government's policies and advocating for human rights and political reform​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​. The Rwigara family's ordeal is emblematic of the challenges faced by opposition figures in Rwanda. Their story, marked by financial ruin, political persecution, and now a mysterious death, raises serious questions about the state of democracy and human rights in the country. It underscores the risks faced by those who dare to speak out against entrenched political power structures. Anne Rwigara's legacy, as a courageous critic of the Kagame regime, continues to inspire advocates for democracy and human rights. Her life and untimely death serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for political freedom and the necessity of international vigilance and support for those who challenge authoritarian regimes. In conclusion, while the exact circumstances of Anne Rwigara's death remain unclear, her story represents a poignant chapter in Rwanda's complex political history. It highlights the need for continued advocacy for human rights and democratic freedoms in Rwanda and beyond. 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