Tanzania Ranks first in Africa for Mental Well-being,above Nigeria and zimbabwe being the third Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 13, 2024 ​ Tannzinia President Mrs hassan suluhu. In a recent revelation by the Global Mind Project's 'Mental State of the World' report for March 2024, Nigeria has been recognized as Africa's second-leading nation in terms of mental well-being, outpacing Zimbabwe. The report, diligently prepared by Sapien Labs, showcases Tanzania at the forefront, holding the highest score in the continent's mental health standings. Amidst a challenging backdrop of economic difficulties, including a significant rise in the cost of living due to the removal of fuel subsidies and the consolidation of foreign exchange rates initiated by President Bola Tinubu since May 29, 2023, Nigeria's achievement in mental health is noteworthy. The economic strains have not deterred the nation's resilience and pursuit of mental wellness. Sapien Labs' comprehensive study involved over 500,000 participants from 71 countries, spanning nine distinct geographic regions, including Africa. The research employed a multifaceted approach to assess mental well-being, focusing on six critical aspects: mood and outlook, social identity, drive and motivation, resilience, cognition, and the mind-body connection. This significant report highlights a concerning global downtrend in mental well-being post-pandemic but shines a light on Nigeria's 2rd commendable position in Africa's mental health 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

Cameroonian Ulrich Chomche and LeBron James' Son Highlight Historic 2024 NBA Draft Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Jun 28, 2024 Cameroonian Ulrich Chomche and LeBron James' Son Bronny James Ulrich Chomche, a standout basketball talent from Cameroon, achieved a significant milestone by being selected 57th overall by the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2024 NBA Draft. Representing NBA Academy Africa in Saly, Senegal, Chomche's selection marks the first instance of an NBA Academy Africa prospect being drafted directly into the NBA, setting a precedent for the league's academies in Senegal, Mexico, and Australia. Chomche's basketball journey began when he joined NBA Academy Africa in 2019 at the age of 14. He competed in various high-profile international events and represented Rwanda Energy Group (REG) and Cameroon’s Forces Armées et Police (FAP) in the Basketball Africa League (BAL). His impressive performance caught the attention of scouts, leading to his historic draft selection. Additionally, he represented Cameroon’s national team in the 2023 FIBA Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament and played for the World Team at the 2024 Nike Hoop Summit. Adem Bona, a Nigerian centre, was taken 41st by the Philadelphia 76ers and will back up Cameroonian star Joel Embiid. This draft also marked a first for Cameroon, with two players being selected. Bronny James, the 19-year-old son of Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James, was selected 55th overall by the Lakers. LeBron James has expressed a desire to play alongside his son, potentially creating the first father-son combination in NBA history. Bronny, a guard for the University of Southern California, averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.1 assists last season. Despite suffering cardiac arrest last July due to a congenital heart defect, he has been cleared to play and is seen as a top defensive prospect. The 2024 NBA Draft also featured international prospects like France’s Zaccharie Risacher, who was taken first overall by the Atlanta Hawks, and several others who were picked early in the second round, including Australian swingman Johnny Furphy and Spanish guard Juan Nunez. These selections highlight the global reach and impact of the NBA, showcasing the league's commitment to developing talent from around the world. 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

United Bank for Africa Expands Influence in East Africa with Strategic Investments in Kenya and Uganda Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond Apr 27, 2024 ​ United Bank for Africa (UBA) in Uganda In a significant move within the East African banking sector, the Pan-African banking giant, United Bank for Africa (UBA), has notably increased its shareholdings in its Kenyan and Ugandan subsidiaries. This strategic decision highlights UBA's intensified efforts to strengthen its presence in a region dominated by Kenyan retail banks. Owned by Nigerian billionaire Tony Elumelu, UBA acquired an additional 13% in UBA Kenya Ltd and 11% in UBA Uganda Ltd during the year 2022. These acquisitions have elevated UBA Plc's ownership to 94% and 80% in the respective subsidiaries, marking a significant increase from the previous stakes of 81% in Kenya and 69% in Uganda. The detailed transactions were disclosed in the lender's latest annual report for 2023. The financial commitment towards these stake increases amounted to NGN 18.49 billion ($16.04 million). Specifically, UBA spent NGN 6.96 billion ($6.03 million) for the additional shares in Uganda, and NGN 11.52 billion ($9.99 million) for the Kenyan shares. Furthermore, in 2023, UBA injected an additional NGN 17.32 billion ($15.02 million) into these subsidiaries. This capital infusion included investments of NGN 5.14 billion ($4.45 million) in Kenya and NGN 12.17 billion ($10.55 million) in Uganda, aimed at bolstering their financial base and operational capabilities. This investment is part of UBA's broader strategy to capitalize on the East African Community (EAC) market, home to over 300 million people. UBA also operates subsidiaries in Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), indicating its robust footprint and commitment to the region. UBA's aggressive expansion in East Africa underscores its objective to enhance its market share and influence in the region's competitive banking sector. These strategic investments not only reflect UBA's long-term commitment to its East African operations but also demonstrate its confidence in the economic potential of the EAC market. 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

Russia Reaffirms Support for African Union Goals, Says Russia's Ambassador to Ethiopia Terekhin Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe May 26, 2024 ​ Russia's Ambassador to Ethiopia, Evgeny Terekhin Addis Ababa, May 25, 2024 (ENA) – Russia's Ambassador to Ethiopia, Evgeny Terekhin, has reiterated his country's unwavering support for the aspirations of the African continent. During the 61st anniversary of Africa Day, commemorated at the African Union (AU) Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Terekhin emphasized Russia's long-standing partnership with Africa. In his message, Ambassador Terekhin highlighted the Russian Federation's commitment to the goals of the AU, particularly those outlined in the "Agenda-2063" socio-economic development program. He noted that Russia actively provides comprehensive support to Africa both bilaterally and through international mechanisms, aiming to strengthen the sovereignty and equality of African states. Terekhin also pointed out Russia's consistent advocacy for increased African representation on the UN Security Council. He argued that this would address historical injustices and align the UN with modern realities. The ambassador praised Africa as the most dynamically developing region globally, lauding its rich traditions, culture, natural resources, and the resilience of its people. He underscored Russia's dedication to bolstering its partnership with the AU and supporting Africa's pursuit of development and prosperity. 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

Gambian Lawmakers Back Recommendations to Maintain Female Genital Mutilation Ban Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 9, 2024 A veiled woman and young girls sit in contemplation, highlighting the deep-rooted cultural practices amidst the ongoing debate on FGM Gambian lawmakers have supported recommendations to maintain the country's ban on female genital mutilation (FGM), ahead of a crucial vote later this month on whether to decriminalise the practice. FGM has been outlawed in Gambia since 2015, yet the practice remains prevalent. The first convictions last year for FGM spurred a backlash against the law. Following a heated debate, a report by the joint health and gender committee was adopted by the full house, with 35 lawmakers voting in favour, 17 against, and two abstaining. The final vote on the bill to decriminalise FGM is set for July 24. If approved, Gambia would be the first country to reverse a ban on FGM. The bill passed its second reading in March with only five out of 53 lawmakers opposing it and one abstaining. The joint committee conducted a national public consultation with various stakeholders , including religious and traditional leaders, doctors, victims, civil society groups, and circumcisers. The conclusions presented on Monday condemned all forms of FGM as a "traumatic form of torture" and "discrimination against women." Amadou Camara, the lawmaker who read out the report, stated that repealing the law would be a significant setback for the Gambia. The first conviction for FGM last August involved three women found guilty of cutting eight infant girls, which sparked outrage. This led independent lawmaker Almaneh Gibba to table the repeal bill in March. Gibba and his supporters, including influential religious leaders, argue that the ban infringes on citizens' rights to practice their culture and religion in the Muslim-majority country. However, many Islamic scholars dispute this claim.The World Health Organization (WHO) asserts that FGM has no health benefits and can result in severe complications such as excessive bleeding, shock, psychological issues, and even death. 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

Biniam Girmay Becomes First Black African to Win Tour de France Stage Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 2, 2024 Eritrean Cyclist Biniam Girmay's Historic Victory in Turin Biniam Girmay made history as the first black African to win a Tour de France stage, triumphing in a dramatic finish in Turin. Eritrea's Girmay clinched victory in a reduced sprint, beating Colombia's Fernando Gaviria and Belgium's Arnaud de Lie. The stage, a 230.8km route from Piacenza, was marred by a late crash that disrupted many riders, including Mark Cavendish. Cavendish, aiming for a record 35th stage win, was caught out of position due to the crash just over 2km from the finish. He and several others avoided serious injury but lost the chance to compete in the final sprint. Richard Carapaz became the first Ecuadorian to wear the yellow jersey, leading the general classification tied on time with Tadej Pogacar, Remco Evenepoel, and Jonas Vingegaard. At the finish, an emotional Girmay, 24, reflected on his victory. "I would say thanks to God for everything, for giving me all the strength and support," he said. "Since I started cycling I was never dreaming to be part of the Tour de France but now I can't believe it. I want to say thank you to my family, my wife, Eritrea, and Africa. We must be proud. Now is our moment, now is our time. This is for all Africa." Cavendish and his Astana-Qazaqstan teammates were on the right side of the road when the crash occurred. The 39-year-old expressed relief at avoiding injury, having crashed out last year on stage eight. "Something was going to happen," Cavendish said. "You could feel it but you didn't know where or when. I heard it happening ahead so you're on the brakes, you skid and you wait for somebody to hit you from behind. Thankfully we were OK and I don't think anyone was seriously hurt. We didn't sprint but we're safe and that's the main thing." The Tour heads into the Alps on Tuesday, tackling the mighty Col du Galibier on the mountainous 139.6km route from Pinerolo to Valloire. 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

Beer prices hike again for the third time This Year Amid Economic Strain in Nigeria Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 14, 2024 ​ Popular Breweries in Nigeria (Beverages) Nigerian Breweries, the country's leading and most established brewing company, has declared another increase in beer prices due to escalating production costs. This marks the third price adjustment in less than twelve months, intensifying the financial burden on consumers seeking refreshment. The revised pricing is set to commence on Friday, closely following the previous adjustment a month ago. In the face of Nigeria's dire economic challenges, the brewery reported a significant net loss of 106 billion naira ($66 million/£53 million) last year. The naira's depreciation has notably inflated the cost of importing essential brewing ingredients, contributing to the financial strain. The broader manufacturing sector is similarly affected, with numerous local businesses raising product prices to counter the economic downturn, described as the most severe in recent decades. The scarcity of foreign currency, crucial for importing raw materials, coupled with inadequate power supply, stands out as primary obstacles for production and commercial operations in Nigeria. The ripple effects of heightened food and transport expenses have exacerbated the situation, plunging an increasing number of Nigerians into poverty. This price surge from Nigerian Breweries is a reflection of the broader economic hardships faced by industries and consumers 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

Anthony Joshua vs Francis Ngannou:"Joshua's Second-Round Thunderous Knockout win at Riyadh Showdown Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 9, 2024 ​ An explosive right hand sent Ngannou reeling, leading to the referee's Intervention and calling an end to the contest at the showdown In an electrifying bout in Saudi Arabia, British heavyweight Anthony Joshua delivered a stunning performance, securing a second-round knockout victory against former UFC champion Francis Ngannou. The match, highly anticipated by fans worldwide, saw Joshua, at 34, showcase his prowess and strategic acumen, reaffirming his status in the heavyweight division. From the onset, Joshua's intent was clear. He floored Ngannou in the initial round and continued his dominance into the second. An explosive right hand sent Ngannou reeling, leading to the referee intervening and calling an end to the contest. Ngannou, 37, visibly shaken by the power of Joshua's punch, required medical attention post-fall, highlighting the match's intensity. Joshua's victory was witnessed by none other than WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, adding a layer of intrigue given Fury's previous challenging encounter with Ngannou. Joshua's post-fight remarks hinted at respect for Ngannou's capabilities and an openness to future challenges within the boxing domain, further fueling speculations abou t potential matchups . This win marks Joshua's fourth victory in 11 months, a testament to his relentless pursuit of reclaiming a world title. The event also drew attention to the promotional prowess of Eddie Hearn, who has been instrumental in Joshua's career. Hearn's post-fight comments suggest ambitious plans for Joshua, eyeing a matchup with the winner of the forthcoming bout between Fury and Oleksandr Usyk for the undisputed heavyweight championship. The fight not only showcased Joshua's technical growth as a boxer but also highlighted his mental preparation and strategic planning. His ability to maintain composure under pressure and execute a game plan flawlessly was evident from the first bell. The knockout serves as a powerful statement in the heavyweight division and sets the stage for intriguing future contests. As Joshua looks ahead, the boxing world watches with bated breath for his next move. With potential high-stakes matches on the horizon, Joshua's career trajectory remains a focal point for fans and analysts alike, promising more thrilling encounters in the ring. 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 Chosen as Boeing's African Headquarters over Kenya and South Africa Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire May 30, 2024 ​ The exterior of the Boeing Company headquarters is seen on March 25, 2024 in Arlington, Virginia Boeing has selected Ethiopia as the location for its African headquarters, surpassing Kenya and South Africa. This decision highlights Ethiopia's outstanding aviation safety record, which is among the best in Africa, according to reports In a strategic move, Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance airline operations and develop key areas, including industrial development, advanced aviation training, educational partnerships, and leadership development. This collaboration marks a significant milestone for Ethiopian Airlines, which recently made history as the first African customer for Boeing's 777X aircraft. Despite facing recent challenges, Ethiopian Airlines remains committed to Boeing . Last year, the airline announced orders for 11 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 20 Boeing 737 Max airplanes as part of its fleet modernization strategy. In preparation for this new development, Boeing has appointed Henok Shawl, a former Ethiopian Airlines executive with extensive experience in the aviation and telecommunications sectors, to lead its Africa division. Boeing's decision to establish its African headquarters in Ethiopia reflects the continent's abundant natural resources and burgeoning young workforce, which are poised to drive significant growth in air traffic and airplane demand over the next two decades. Boeing projects that African carriers will require an estimated 1,030 new aircraft over the next 20 years to meet international standards. Last year, Boeing delivered 528 commercial airplanes and received 1,576 net orders, with an estimated market capitalization of USD 107 billion as of May 2024. The establishment of Boeing's headquarters in Ethiopia is expected to further enhance the region's aviation sector and contribute to its economic growth. 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 Arrival of Advanced Bullet Trains in Ghana as the country Ushers in New Era of Rail Transport Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 10, 2024 ​ In an exciting development for Ghana's transportation landscape, the first set of 12 cutting-edge bullet trains, assembled in Poland, has made its way to the Tema Port, signaling a major leap forward for the nation's rail sector. These state-of-the-art trains are set to operate on the newly constructed Tema-Mpakadan Standard-Gauge Railway Line, enhancing connectivity along Ghana's Eastern Corridor. Spanning 97 kilometers, the Tema-Mpakadan Railway Line is a crucial component of a larger vision aimed at fostering Ghana-Burkina Faso connectivity, linking Ouagadougou to Tema's port. This standard-gauge railroad is poised to revolutionize the transportation of goods and people, significantly boosting economic activities and accessibility in the region. The collaboration with Polish manufacturer PESA marks a pivotal moment in Ghana's railway expansion. Yaw Owusu, CEO of the Ghana Railways Development Authority, highlighted the significance of this partnership, which is not only a testament to international cooperation but also a foundation for long-term growth and sustainability in Ghana's railway system. The introduction of these modern trains is a key element in Ghana's broader strategy to construct a 4000km railway network, aligning with its industrialisation goals. This initiative is expected to significantly improve the travel experience for passengers and accelerate economic growth by facilitating smoother movement across the country. Preparations are underway for the official commissioning of the trains by the President in June 2024, following thorough system testing and trial runs. The recent visit by a delegation from PESA to Ghana's Transport Minister, Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, reaffirms the commitment to expedite the operational readiness of these trains, aiming for the start of commercial operations by the end of May. "An optimism and commitment have been expressed towards ensuring that the initiation of commercial train operations is realized before the end of May, which would showcase the government's dedication to enacting significant enhancements within the nation's transportation infrastructure," he said. This transformative project underscores the Ghanaian government's dedication, under the leadership of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, to advance the nation's transportation infrastructure, setting the stage for a new chapter in Ghana's economic and developmental journey. 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

Burna Boy's Historic Sell-Out at Montreal's Bell Centre Marks New Milestone Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Feb 29, 2024 ​ Burna Boy's Electrifying perfomance in Montreal In an electrifying display of talent and charisma, Afrobeat sensation Burna Boy has set a new benchmark by being the first African artist to sell out the massive 21,000-seat Bell Centre in Montreal, Canada. The Grammy-award-winning musician captivated the full house with his dynamic performance, further solidifying his status in the music industry. Some of the highlights at the event : Burna Boy's "I Told Them" tour's latest triumph in Montreal continues to build on his impressive list of accomplishments, including his historic performance at the Grammy Awards, marking him as the first African artist to grace its stage. His genre-defining Afrofusion sound—a vibrant mix of Afrobeat, dancehall, and reggae—has not only defined his career but also led to chart-topping hits that resonate globally. Among his many achievements, Burna Boy's track "Ye" stands out as his biggest hit, encapsulating the essence of Afrobeat while highlighting his lyrical prowess and unique sound. This track, among others, has played a pivotal role in Burna Boy's journey to becoming one of the most influential African artists of his generation. 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. Army Officers Enhance Emergency Joint Drills in Uganda Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Griffith Sarah Apr 3, 2024 ​ In a significant demonstration of international collaboration and preparedness, U.S. Army personnel from the East Africa Response Force (EARF), under the auspices of the Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa, have embarked on a critical three-day emergency response exercise at the United States embassy in Kampala, Uganda. This initiative, running from April 1, 2024, is part of a broader effort to bolster humanitarian assistance and disaster response capabilities on the African continent. Dorothy Nanyonga, a strategic communications specialist at the U.S. Embassy, highlighted the essence of this exercise as a strategic endeavor to ensure readiness in real-life humanitarian crises. The EARF, established following the 2012 Benghazi attack, is a testament to the U.S. commitment to swiftly address emergencies and protect its interests in East Africa. This regularly scheduled training, endorsed by host nations across Africa, serves a dual purpose. It not only hones the skills required for effective emergency deployment but also strengthens the operational continuity of U.S. embassies under duress. Uganda, with its strategic significance in East Africa, provides an ideal backdrop for such comprehensive readiness drills, reinforcing the synergy between the U.S. military and Ugandan authorities in managing potential crises . The deployment of EARF personnel in Uganda is a clear indicator of the proactive measures being taken to ensure that both American and local assets are safeguarded in the face of unforeseen disasters. This exercise underscores the enduring partnership between Uganda and the United States, aimed at fostering a secure and responsive environment in the region. As this exercise unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the importance of readiness and the global commitment to humanitarian assistance. The collaboration between the U.S. military and Ugandan officials exemplifies the shared dedication to peace and stability in East Africa, ensuring that both nations are better prepared to face any emergency with confidence and efficiency. 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