Bobi wine's 'The people president ' succumbs to '20 Days in Mariupol' documentary at Oscars. Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 11, 2024 ​ Robert Kyagulanyi, known musically as Bobi Wine and wife Barbie Kyagulanyi at Oscars In an evening filled with cinematic brilliance at the 2024 Oscars, the gripping narrative of "Bobi Wine: The People’s President" captivated audiences worldwide, yet fell short of clinching the Best Documentary award, overtaken by "20 Days in Mariupol." This poignant film delves into the life of Robert Kyagulanyi, known musically as Bobi Wine, tracing his metamorphosis from a celebrated artist to a beacon of hope in Uganda's political arena as he contested in the tumultuous 2021 presidential race. Directed by the visionary duo, Ugandan filmmaker Moses Bwayo and British journalist Christopher Sharp of Liberation Times, the documentary offers an unprecedented glimpse into the heart of Uganda's struggle for democracy through the eyes of Bobi Wine, the resilient leader of the National Unity Platform. Despite the setback at the Oscars, where Wine was present alongside his wife Barbie Kyagulanyi and son Solomon Kampala, the film has sparked global conversations about the enduring spirit of Uganda's people and their quest for change. In stark contrast, "20 Days in Mariupol" seized the Oscar spotlight, bringing to light the dire realities of Ukraine's conflict with a raw and unfiltered portrayal by director Mstyslav Chernov. In a night of mixed emotions, Chernov's acceptance speech resonated deeply, voicing a plea for peace and freedom amidst the turmoil in Ukraine. As the dust settles on the Oscars night, the impact of "Bobi Wine: The People’s President" remains indelible, stirring hearts and minds to the cause of justice and the unyielding power of the human spirit in the face of adversity. 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

USAID Allocates $11 Million to Aid Refugees in Uganda, Totaling $83 Million in 2023 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Griffith Sarah Apr 20, 2024 ​ Abdirahman Meygag, WFP’s Country Director in Uganda The World Food Programme (WFP), a key branch of the United Nations, has recently been bolstered by an $11 million donation from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). This significant contribution is part of a broader effort to support refugees in Uganda, with the total aid for the fiscal year 2023 nearing $83 million. Since the start of 2024, Uganda has seen an influx of nearly 40,000 refugees, predominantly women, children, and the elderly from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Somalia, South Sudan, and Sudan. The country now hosts 1.6 million refugees, the highest in Africa, a number that has quadrupled since 2014. According to Abdirahman Meygag, WFP’s Country Director in Uganda, "This contribution is undoubtedly a relief for the most vulnerable households in the refugee settlements." Despite Uganda's progressive asylum and refugee support policies, refugees face limited opportunities to sustain themselves. They remain largely dependent on humanitarian aid, as the gap between their needs and the availability of funding continues to widen. In response to the growing needs, WFP has adjusted its food assistance program. Extremely vulnerable refugee households receive 60 percent of a standard food ration, while less vulnerable families get 30 percent. Households not categorized as vulnerable are transitioned off food assistance to connect with long-term livelihood opportunities. However, all new arrivals are entitled to a full food ration for their first three months. Daniele Nyirandutiye, USAID Mission Director in Uganda, emphasized the ongoing commitment: "We are committed to supporting refugees in Uganda through emergency food assistance and are pleased to partner with WFP to assist the Government of Uganda’s refugee response efforts. We will continue to support both urgent relief and longer-term resilience-building efforts." USAID’s Bureau of Humanitarian Assistance has contributed over $300 million to WFP from 2020 to 2023, aiding refugees with food and cash transfers and enhancing smallholder farmers’ resilience through agriculture market support. Nevertheless, WFP urgently needs an additional $110 million to sustain its emergency operations in Uganda until the end of the year. 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

Support for South Africa's ANC Dips Below 50% Ahead of Elections, Ipsos Poll Finds Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 26, 2024 ​ President Cyril Ramaphosa seeks re-election, followed by John Steenhuisen of the Democratic Alliance, and Julius Malema of the Economic Freedom Fighters wraps up the trio With South Africa's general election looming on May 29, the latest Ipsos opinion poll reveals a significant drop in support for the ruling African National Congress (ANC), now hovering around 40%. This development marks a pivotal moment that could lead to the most significant political shift since the end of apartheid. Although the ANC remains the frontrunner, its current polling figures suggest it may fall short of the 50% threshold required to govern alone. Such an outcome would necessitate forming a coalition government for the first time since Nelson Mandela led the party to victory three decades ago. "The nation's sentiment mirrors the apprehension of the first democratic elections of April 27, 1994," Ipsos noted, underscoring the weight of the upcoming elections, which not only include the national parliament vote but also the provincial legislatures that will subsequently elect the president. Incumbent President Cyril Ramaphosa is campaigning for a second term amidst these challenging conditions. The Ipsos poll, conducted through face-to-face interviews with 2,545 registered voters across all nine provinces in March and April, shows a slight decrease in ANC support from 40.5% in February to 40.2%. This poll has a margin of error of 1.9% at a 95% confidence level. In contrast, support for the Democratic Alliance (DA), the ANC’s closest competitor, has increased to 21.9% from 20.5%. Meanwhile, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) saw their support decline to 11.5%, possibly affected by the new political party, uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK), which garnered 8.4% and is backed by former President Jacob Z Voter discontent appears to be rising, influenced by persistent issues such as unemployment, corruption, crime, and inadequate public services. These factors could play a crucial role in the upcoming election, potentially reshaping South Africa's political landscape. The ANC aims to reinforce its achievements since the apartheid era as part of its campaign strategy. However, the party faces the prospect of having to collaborate with other political entities, including the economically liberal DA and the far-left Marxist EFF, both of which have expressed openness to a coalition. 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

Shabnim Ismail Sets New Record for Fastest Delivery in Women’s Cricket Premier League Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Mar 7, 2024 ​ The former South Africa fast bowler was clocked at 132.1km/h (82.08mph) playing for Mumbai Indians against Delhi Capitals in the Women's Premier League. Image/@shabnimsmail Shabnim Ismail Breaks Women’s Cricket Speed Record with 132.1km/h Delivery. Former South African fast bowler Shabnim Ismail achieved a groundbreaking feat during the Women’s Premier League match between Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals. Clocking in at an impressive 132.1 kilometers per hour (82.08 miles per hour), Ismail bowled the fastest delivery ever recorded in women’s cricket. The momentous occasion marked the first time the 130km/h barrier was surpassed in the women’s game. Despite her record-breaking performance, Ismail faced a challenging day overall, taking 1 wicket for 46 runs in her four overs during a 29-run loss for Mumbai. Meanwhile, Delhi’s Jemimah Rodrigues shone brightly, scoring an unbeaten 69 runs off 33 balls. This remarkable achievement adds to Ismail’s existing accolades, including holding the record for the quickest ball in women’s international cricket (128km/h against the West Indies in 2016) and achieving speeds of 127km/h twice during the 2022 World Cup . Women’s cricket continues to witness extraordinary moments, and Ismail’s lightning-fast delivery is a testament to the sport’s evolution and the remarkable talent of its players 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

U.S. Pledges Additional $100 Million in Aid Amid Ongoing Sudan Conflict Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Griffith Sarah Apr 14, 2024 ​ A young girl near a temporal wretched shelters set by refugees in Sudan The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) will announce an additional $100 million in aid to address the escalating conflict in Sudan. This funding boost aims to intensify global efforts in response to the humanitarian crisis, coinciding with the anniversary of the conflict. USAID Administrator Samantha Power highlighted that the new funds would be allocated towards emergency food assistance, nutrition support, and other critical aid. Power also urged the warring factions in Sudan to cease obstructing humanitarian efforts and to engage sincerely in negotiations aimed at achieving a ceasefire. Reflecting on the devastating impact of the conflict that began on April 15, 2023, Power remarked, "A year ago tomorrow, the people of Sudan awoke to a nightmare." The clashes between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have transformed urban areas into war zones, leading to thousands of deaths and leaving many civilians trapped without essential supplies. The ongoing violence has not only resulted in significant loss of life—with the exact death toll remaining uncertain—but has also led to the world’s largest displacement crisis, severe food shortages, and widespread ethnically motivated violence and sexual assaults, particularly in Sudan’s Darfur region. In anticipation of a key humanitarian conference set for April 15 in France, the U.S. is calling on international partners to prioritize the Sudanese crisis and enhance their contributions. "We call on others to join us in increasing support to the people of Sudan and urgently mobilizing additional support for the Sudanese response," stated Power. This pledge of support from the U.S. aims to catalyze a stronger international response as the humanitarian situation in Sudan continues to deteriorate. This development reflects the ongoing global power interests in exerting influence on African territories, with reports of Iranian drones previously aiding in the ongoing conflicts in Sudan. 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

Burkina Faso foils coup attempt, arrests four army officers Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Dallas Hughes Sep 28, 2023 ​ Burkina Faso's new military leader Ibrahim Traoré. REUTERS - VINCENT BADO (XtrAfrica) Burkina Faso’s ruling military junta said on Thursday that it had thwarted a coup attempt by some army officers and arrested four of them, while two others were still on the run. The junta, led by Captain Ibrahim Traore, said in a statement that the intelligence and security services had detected and neutralized a “proven coup attempt” on Wednesday. It did not provide any details on the motives or the targets of the plotters. The public prosecutor’s office at the military court in Ouagadougou, the capital city, said in a separate statement that four army officers had been arrested and two others were being actively sought in connection with the coup attempt. Burkina Faso has been gripped by political turmoil and insecurity since 2014, when a popular uprising toppled longtime president Blaise Compaore, who had ruled the West African nation for 27 years. Traore seized power in a coup on September 30 last year, after interim president Michel Kafando and prime minister Isaac Zida were detained by members of the presidential guard loyal to Compaore. The coup was widely condemned by the international community and faced resistance from civil society and other army factions. Traore later released Kafando and Zida and agreed to restore the transitional government, which was tasked with organizing elections. However, he remained in charge of the junta, which he said was necessary to ensure security and stability in the country. Traore has also clashed with France, the former colonial power, over its role in the region. He accused France of interfering in Burkina Faso’s internal affairs and supporting armed groups that have been wreaking havoc in the Sahel region south of the Sahara Desert. Earlier this month, Burkina Faso’s military leaders signed a mutual defense pact with the juntas in Mali and Niger, two neighboring countries that have also experienced coups and violence in recent years. The pact aims to coordinate efforts to combat terrorism and restore peace and democracy in the tri-border 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

South Africans Vote in Most Competitive Election Since Apartheid Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond May 30, 2024 ​ Young South Africans lined up for voting in numbers in Midrand South Africans voted on Wednesday in the most competitive election since apartheid ended, with high turnout suggesting the African National Congress (ANC) may lose its parliamentary majority after 30 years in power. Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo noted the turnout "will be well beyond the 66% we had in 2019." Many polling stations remained open past the official closing time due to long lines, with only 55% of stations closed two hours after the deadline. Voters expressed dissatisfaction with high unemployment, frequent power outages, and corruption within the ANC, leading many to support opposition parties. Business owner Skhumbuzo Mnyandu, 48, who had long supported the ANC, voted for the new uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK) party, backed by former president Jacob Zuma. Conversely, pensioner Charles Louw, 62, remained loyal to the ANC, citing distrust in opposition promises. Since 1994, the ANC has won every national election , but its vote share has declined. If the ANC fails to secure 50% of the vote, it will need to form a coalition government. Young voters, disillusioned with economic prospects, showed particular frustration. Nosipho Mkhize, 28, criticized the lack of job opportunities for the youth, despite having degrees. President Cyril Ramaphosa, likely to stay in office, remains hopeful for an ANC majority. Meanwhile, opposition leaders like John Steenhuisen of the Democratic Alliance and Julius Malema of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) emphasized the election's significance. Over 27 million South Africans registered to vote at 23,000 polling stations. Initial results are expected soon, with final results within three to four days. 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

Zuchu Faces Ban in Zanzibar Following Provocative Stage Performance Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Prince Jean Mar 7, 2024 ​ Zuchu, One of Her Best Collections in Zanzibar. Image/@officialzuchu Tanzanian music sensation Zuchu has been barred from performing in Zanzibar for the next six months following a highly debated stage show. Her recent appearance on Kendwa Island featured explicit language and provocative gestures, leading to an outcry from conservative residents. The Zanzibar Arts Council swiftly took action, citing violations of the island’s customs, traditions, and cultural norms. In addition to the ban, Zuchu was fined $390 (£306) for performing without proper council registration. In a video posted on her Instagram account, Zuchu expressed remorse, emphasizing that her intention was to entertain, not mislead. The incident has sparked discussions about artistic freedom and the delicate balance between expression and societal norms. Zanzibar, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, remains a sought-after holiday destination. However, the clash between artistic expression and conservative values highlights the complexities faced by performers in the region. Despite the setback, Zuchu’s achievements are noteworthy. She became the first female musician in East Africa to amass one million YouTube subscribers in a single year. Additionally, her impressive feat of reaching 500 million YouTube views places her among the continent’s top female artists, as recognized by her label, WCB Wasafi. As Zuchu navigates this challenging period, her impact on the music industry continues to resonate. Fans eagerly await her return, while debates about artistic boundaries persist. 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 in Zimbabwe arrest opposition leader and 80 youths, says lawyer Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond Jun 17, 2024 Zimbabwean anti riot police Zimbabwe police arrested opposition leader Jameson Timba and 80 youths for holding an unauthorized political gathering, their lawyer reported on Monday. Timba, who became the interim leader of Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) after Nelson Chamisa resigned in January, was detained on Sunday along with the youths. According to their lawyer, Agency Gumbo, they remain in custody and are likely to face charges under public order laws. Gumbo indicated that efforts are underway to secure their release. CCC party spokesperson Promise Mkwananzi described the arrests as "regrettable" and indicative of " democratic regression ." The police were not immediately available for comment. Under Zimbabwean law, political parties must seek police clearance before organizing public gatherings. These regulations have historically been used to suppress opposition activities and ban political rallies. 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

Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 21, 2024 Chido Obi-Martin in action for Arsenal's youth team, showcasing his talent before his move to Manchester United. In a surprising turn of events, Manchester United have successfully signed promising young talent Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal, marking a significant coup for the Red Devils. Rising Star: Chido Obi-Martin Chido Obi-Martin, a name that has been generating buzz in youth football circles, is widely regarded as one of the brightest prospects in the sport. The young midfielder has shown immense potential with his exceptional skills, vision, and football intelligence. His performances for Arsenal's youth teams have been nothing short of stellar, earning him a reputation as a future star. Manchester United's Strategic Move Manchester United’s acquisition of Obi-Martin is seen as a strategic move to bolster their youth ranks and secure a long-term talent who can make an impact in the Premier League. The club has a history of developing young players, and Obi-Martin’s addition is expected to strengthen their squad in the coming years. Arsenal's Loss, United's Gain For Arsenal, losing Obi-Martin is a significant blow. The Gunners have invested in his development, and his departure will be felt within their youth setup. However, Manchester United’s proactive approach and willingness to invest in young talent have paid off, demonstrating their commitment to building for the future. Future Prospects Obi-Martin’s move to Manchester United opens up exciting possibilities. With the club's renowned youth academy and a pathway to the first team, he is in a prime position to flourish. Fans are eagerly anticipating his integration into the squad and watching his development under the guidance of experienced coaches at Old Trafford. Chido Obi-Martin’s transfer from Arsenal to Manchester United highlights the competitive nature of youth football in England. Manchester United’s ability to attract and secure such a talented young player speaks volumes about their vision for the future. As Obi-Martin dons the famous red jersey, the football world will be watching closely to see how this wonderkid’s career unfolds. 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 Banyana Banyana Eyes Comeback in Olympic Qualifier Against Nigeria Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 9, 2024 ​ Pretoria, South Africa - South Africa's women's national football team, Banyana Banyana, is gearing up for a crucial Olympic qualifying match against Nigeria, following a narrow 1-0 defeat in Abuja. Head coach Desiree Ellis expressed confidence in the team's potential for a strong comeback in the upcoming second leg at Loftus Versfeld Stadium. Despite the setback in the first leg of the final qualifying round, Ellis remains optimistic about Banyana Banyana's chances of securing a spot in the 2024 Paris Olympics. The absence of the away goal rule adds an extra layer of excitement to the contest, promising a fiercely competitive match. In preparation for Tuesday's game, the team has thoroughly reviewed their previous performance. "We are better than what we demonstrated in Nigeria," Ellis stated, confident of the team's abilities. The second half of the first leg showcased Banyana Banyana's true potential, setting the stage for what promises to be an enthra lling encounter .Ellis emphasized the importance of an early goal to gain momentum and take control of the game. "We have to prepare for every eventuality," she added, acknowledging Nigeria's one-goal lead but underscoring her team's readiness for the challenge. As South Africa's pride, Banyana Banyana is determined to overturn the deficit and claim victory on home soil, keeping their Olympic dreams alive. Fans and supporters are eagerly anticipating a spirited performance that showcases the team's resilience and skill . 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

Malawi's Top Comedian Sworn in as Vice-President Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jun 22, 2024 Late Chilima-and- Usi Micheal giving an address Micheal Usi, a well-known comedian-turned-politician, has been sworn in as Malawi's vice-president in Lilongwe, following the death of Saulos Chilima in a plane crash earlier this month. Usi, 55, expressed a mix of sadness and gratitude during his inauguration, promising to honor Chilima's legacy and thanking President Lazarus Chakwera for the opportunity. Usi's appointment has sparked mixed reactions among Malawians. Known for his role as "Manganya" in the popular TV sitcom "Tikuferanji," some question his suitability for the role, while others applaud the decision for maintaining the alliance between their parties. Despite his fame, Usi has a diverse background. He funded his acting career by working as a hospital clinician and holds a PhD in youth development. His work with the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (Adra) involved funding educational media on social issues. Seven years ago, Usi founded a political movement, which later merged with the UTM party, led by Dr. Chilima. Their joint rallies attracted large crowds, and in 2019, Chilima selected Usi as his running mate for the election. Usi's unique blend of charisma and dedication is now poised to bring positive change to Malawi as vice-president. 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