Escalating Insurgency in Mozambique: Islamist Attack on Northern Town of Macomia Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire May 11, 2024 ​ Mozambique's President Filipe Nyusi confirmed that the army is actively engaged with Islamist insurgents In a concerning development reported on May 10th, Mozambique's President Filipe Nyusi confirmed that the army is actively engaged with Islamist insurgents who attacked the town of Macomia in the province of Cabo Delgado early Friday morning. This region, known for its significant natural gas resources, has been a hotspot for escalating insurgency activities linked to Islamic State militants since 2017. Renewed Attacks Amidst Security Transition According to President Nyusi's televised statement, the conflict in Macomia began early in the morning, with militants temporarily retreating after an intense 45-minute battle, only to regroup and launch a renewed assault. This attack marks one of the most severe in recent times and raises concerns about a potential security vacuum following the phased withdrawal of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) forces. Regional Impact and International Involvement The drawdown of SADC troops, which began last month, is set to complete by July. Experts like Piers Pigou from the Institute for Security Studies highlight the risks associated with this transition, noting that claims of stabilization in the province appear to be premature. Additionally, Rwandan forces remain deployed in Mozambique, aiding in the counter-insurgency efforts. Humanitarian and Economic Consequences The ongoing violence has had devastating humanitarian impacts, with the International Organization for Migration reporting over 110,000 people displaced since the end of last year. Economically, the insecurity poses significant challenges to major international investments in the region. French oil giant TotalEnergies is attempting to restart a $20 billion liquefied natural gas project halted in 2021 due to the insurgency, located approximately 200 kilometers north of the embattled town of Macomia. ExxonMobil, along with partner Eni, continues to develop another LNG project in the area, expressing optimism about the improving security landscape. The situation in Macomia underscores the volatile security environment in Northern Mozambique and its implications for both local residents and international economic interests. The international community, alongside Mozambican forces, faces the urgent task of restoring stability to capitalize on the region's economic potential and ensure the safety of its people. 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

AfDB to Boost Infrastructure Funding Amid Accelerating African Growth Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire May 29, 2024 ​ AfDB President Akinwumi Adesina The African Development Bank (AfDB) is poised to increase infrastructure funding as Africa's economic growth is projected to accelerate. According to AfDB President Akinwumi Adesina, growth is expected to rise to 3.7% this year and 4.3% next year, up from 3.1% in 2023. Speaking at the bank's annual meeting, Adesina highlighted the resilience of African economies despite challenges such as climate change, geopolitical tensions, global inflation, and rising debt. Over the past nine years, the AfDB has invested more than $50 billion in infrastructure projects across the continent. Adesina also mentioned that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) recently approved the use of Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) by multilateral banks like the AfDB. SDRs are interest-bearing international reserve assets allocated to IMF member countries based on their shareholding. Adesina expressed optimism that channeling the approved $20 billion SDR limit to multilateral development banks could enable the AfDB to leverage up to $80 billion in new financial support. The bank is actively involved in several major infrastructure projects, including raising $3.2 billion for the East Africa standard gauge railway, which will connect Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Burundi. Additionally, the AfDB is providing $500 million for the development of the Lobito Corridor, aimed at linking Zambia, Angola, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. 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

M23 is an empty shell the real criminal is Paul Kagame Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond May 1, 2024 ​ Felix Tshisekedi President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo During a candid interview with Deutsche Welle in Germany, President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) voiced strong accusations against Rwanda, highlighting a long-standing issue of illegal mineral exploitation that has plagued his country. President Tshisekedi accused Rwanda of backing the M23 rebel group, a claim supported by United Nations reports, and contributing to ongoing instability in eastern DRC. He described Rwanda's involvement as a façade for plundering DRC’s vast mineral wealth, which includes crucial elements like cobalt and coltan, essential for modern technology. The DRC leader’s narrative pointedly criticizes Paul Kagame, Rwanda’s president, labeling him the orchestrator behind the exploitation and violence in the region. Tshisekedi’s resolve is evident as he expresses a desire for a direct confrontation with Kagame to hold him accountable, dismissing any dialogue with the M23 as they are, in his view, merely a proxy for Rwandan interests. Tshisekedi said "M23 is an empty shell made to justify the aggression against my country But in reality, the real aggressor and the real criminal is Paul Kagame,I want to meet him not to beg him or to negotiate anything with him but to tell him clearly with my own eyes that he's a criminal that his dirty game is now known to everyone" President Tshisekedi's call for accountability extends to the international community, urging a reassessment of Rwanda's so-called development miracle. attributing its growth to the unauthorized extraction of Congolese resources rather than effective governance. The President's accusations extend beyond Apple, hinting at a broader network of complicity in the exploitation of the DRC's resources, which he insists is facilitated by international NGOs and benefits Rwanda economically. Tshisekedi's government has recently accused tech giant Apple of using minerals sourced from illegal exploitation, alleging that these minerals are smuggled through Rwanda, financing armed groups and perpetuating violence in eastern DRC. This situation is not new; it has been a destructive cycle for over thirty years, stemming from the influx of armed refugees from Rwanda in the 1990s. 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

Moise Katumbi's Pledge: Tackling Militia Violence and Ensuring Security in Eastern Congo Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Alison Marsh Nov 24, 2023 ​ Congo opposition candidate Katumbi vows more security in militia-plagued east | Reuters Presidential candidate Moise Katumbi has assured the residents of the eastern city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo that he will prioritize security in the face of escalating militia violence in the region. Speaking at a rally as part of his campaign to unseat President Felix Tshisekedi in the December 20 election, Katumbi addressed key security concerns, particularly in the mineral-rich eastern provinces of North Kivu and Ituri. The Democratic Republic of Congo, a major global producer of cobalt and copper, has been grappling with the aftermath of a civil war that ended at the beginning of the century. The region is plagued by numerous armed militia groups vying for control of land and resources. The violence has led to the displacement of millions of civilians, with recent years witnessing an upsurge in fighting and brutal attacks. Katumbi, a millionaire businessman and former governor of Katanga province, expressed his commitment to addressing the security challenges head-on. He emphasized his determination to resolve the issue once and for all, particularly highlighting the concerns surrounding the resurgence of the M23 rebel group, which made significant territorial gains last year, approaching the outskirts of Goma. During the rally, Katumbi announced his investment in the region by purchasing a house in Goma, symbolizing his commitment to the community. He pledged not to reside in a rented house and vowed not to take a salary until the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri were liberated from the grip of armed groups. The current president, Tshisekedi, has called for the removal of both the U.N. peacekeeping mission and an East African regional force deployed last year, citing perceived ineffectiveness in dealing with rebel groups. Katumbi's stance aligns with the broader sentiment calling for a comprehensive approach to address the security challenges in the region. The upcoming presidential election features a competitive field of candidates, including leading opposition figures Martin Fayulu and Nobel Peace Prize-winning gynecologist Denis Mukwege. The political landscape has seen some candidates withdrawing from the race to support Katumbi, following discussions among opposition parties about consolidating their efforts to present a united front against Tshisekedi. 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

East African activists are raising concerns over citizens increasingly seeking advanced medical treatment abroad Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Mar 15, 2024 ​ A nurse in an improved facility Citizens of the East African Community (EAC) are increasingly seeking advanced medical treatment abroad, a trend that activists argue diverts resources vital for regional growth. On March 12, the Africa Coalition on Public Service, representing over 500 Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), addressed the East Africa Legislative Assembly (EALA) in Nairobi, Kenya, spotlighting the urgent need for improved public services within EAC partner states. The coalition's petition emphasized the dire state of health services, education, access to clean water, electricity, and social protection across the region. These deficiencies, they argue, exacerbate socio-economic inequalities and hinder progress towards the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. The COVID-19 pandemic, rising living costs, and climate change crises further underscore the necessity of reinforcing public service delivery, particularly in healthcare, education, and social protection sectors. Allana Kembabazi of the Initiative for Social and Economic Rights highlighted the tragic personal impact of inadequate healthcare infrastructure, sharing a poignant example of a loss within her family due to a lack of medical oxygen. Despite the Abuja Declaration's call for African nations to allocate 15% of their budgets to health, EAC countries have yet to meet this target. The petitioners pointed out that current health spending in Africa stands at a mere $188 per capita, starkly contrasted with $4,000 in high-income countries. EALA MP Blacks Gerald Siranda echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the productivity loss in the region due to inadequate healthcare and education. The assembly's Speaker, Joseph Ntakirutimana, expressed solidarity with the petitioners' cause, committing to thorough analysis and deliberation on the petition. In the context of healthcare, Rwanda serves as a beacon of progress within the EAC. The country has significantly ramped up its medical oxygen production and ventilator availability post-COVID-19, positioning itself as a medical hub in the region. This includes introducing kidney transplant services and advancements in heart surgery and cancer treatment, showcasing a proactive approach to healthcare readiness and accessibility . 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

Migrant Deaths Escalate off Tunisian and Djiboutian Coasts Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link louis Buyisiwe Apr 23, 2024 ​ This latest incident underscores the ongoing risks faced by those crossing the Mediterranean April 23, 2024, in a harrowing continuation of the migrant crisis facing Africa, recent capsizings off the coasts of Tunisia and Djibouti have resulted in significant loss of life, shedding light on the perilous journeys many undertake in search of a better life. The Tunisian coast guard reported the recovery of 19 bodies of migrants attempting to reach the Italian island of Lampedusa, marking a grim tally of nearly 200 migrant deaths in the region within the first four months of this year alone. This latest incident underscores the ongoing risks faced by those crossing the Mediterranean, a route often characterized by desperate measures and unsafe vessels. Simultaneously, a devastating episode off the coast of Djibouti has compounded the tragedy, with 21 migrants pronounced dead and another 23 missing after their boat capsized. This vessel, carrying 77 people, predominantly Ethiopians including children, represents the second such disaster in the area in just two weeks. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) highlighted the frequency of such incidents, as tens of thousands from the Horn of Africa, particularly Ethiopians and Somalis, embark on dangerous voyages through Djibouti aiming for Gulf countries. The survivors, along with the deceased, were retrieved by the IOM and local authorities, who emphasize the dire conditions and increasing dangers of these journeys. "These numbers have been increasing over the past few months," stated Tanja Pacifico, head of IOM’s Djiboutian office. She further noted the unusual occurrence of multiple shipwrecks in such a short period, with the previous incident claiming the lives of 38, including children. As the international community watches, these continuing tragedies highlight the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to manage and mitigate the risks faced by migrants, who are often driven by deep-seated economic and safety concerns in their home countries. The ongoing crisis serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of migration and the perilous paths many take in pursuit of hope and a new beginning . 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

Zimbabwe's Stock Market Faces Turmoil as New Currency as ZiG Wipes Out 330% Stocks Rally Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond Apr 23, 2024 ​ Financial Analyst Justin Bgoni, CEO of the ZSE Harare, Zimbabwe - The introduction of Zimbabwe's new currency, the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG), has dramatically affected the nation's stock market, erasing a substantial 330% rally seen earlier this year. The ZiG, which replaced the rapidly depreciating Zimbabwean dollar on April 5, has shown a marginal gain of over 2% against the US dollar. However, this transition has led to a significant downturn in market activities. Impact of ZiG on Zimbabwe's Stock Market Since the implementation of ZiG, there has been a noticeable decline in both the volume of stock trades and the value of transactions. The Zimbabwe Stock Exchange (ZSE) experienced a drastic shift as stock prices were converted to the new currency unit, leading to a general market hesitance and a lack of understanding of the new value dynamics. Justin Bgoni , CEO of the ZSE, highlighted several challenges that contributed to the market's decline. "The conversion process took about a week for the nation's lenders to implement, combined with tight liquidity conditions, severely impacted trading volumes," Bgoni explained. The Securities and Exchange Commission of Zimbabwe observed that most capital-market participants had adjusted to the new currency, but the transition has still led to reduced earnings for many brokers. Lloyd Mlotshwa , head of research at Harare-based brokerage firm IH Securities, noted, "The change has led to a significant decrease in average daily turnover, impacting liquidity and, consequently, the stockbroking industry." Economic Implications and Future Prospects With a significant portion of Zimbabwe's economy still reliant on US dollars, the shift to ZiG poses additional challenges. Experts suggest that adapting business models to this new environment is crucial for survival. Enock Rukarwa , a research and investment consultant at FBC Securities, advises, "In light of these challenges, stockbroking firms need to rethink their strategies and possibly shift their focus away from commission-based income." Imara Asset Management , Zimbabwe's largest independent brokerage managing over $100 million in assets, predicts further market adjustments. "The transition could have been smoother had the ZSE converted to US dollars, aligning with the Victoria Falls Stock Exchange, especially since many businesses are already reporting and paying dividends in US dollars," stated John Legat , CEO of Imara. As the market continues to adjust to the ZiG, stakeholders remain cautious but hopeful that stability will return as the new currency finds its footing. Investors and financial analysts alike are keeping a close eye on developments, hoping for a return to a more robust and stable economic environment in Zimbabwe. More Stories Ethiopia Death Toll from Ethiopian Landslides Rises to 157, Official Says Read More Community Jul 22, 2024 South Sudan South Sudan's Basketball Team: Forging a New countie's image Read More Sports Jul 22, 2024 Nigerian Manchester United Secure NIgerian-Danish Wonderkid Chido Obi-Martin from Arsenal Read More Sports Jul 21, 2024

Rwanda's Upcoming Presidential Election: Paul Kagame should accept change," says Victoire Ingabire. Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jul 11, 2024 Opposition leader Victoire Ingabire calls for greater political openness and fair elections in Rwanda. As Rwanda prepares for its presidential and legislative elections on July 15, 2024, the political landscape is marked by controversy. President Paul Kagame, who has led the country since 2000, is seeking re-election for a fourth term. He faces two opponents: Green Party MP Frank Habineza and independent candidate Philippe Mpayimana. The elections have been criticized for the exclusion of significant opposition voices. Victoire Ingabire, a prominent opposition figure, was barred from running due to a 2013 conviction that stripped her of her civil rights. Ingabire argues that the exclusion of candidates who could genuinely challenge Kagame undermines the fairness of the elections. "Candidates who are well placed to really challenge President Kagame have been banned," she stated, calling for broader political participation. Ingabire emphasized that political competition should not be controlled by the ruling party. "It is not up to the party in power to choose who should face their candidate," she said, urging for adherence to Rwandan laws that should apply to all parties, including the ruling one. She also called on President Kagame to accept constructive criticism and to embrace democratic alternation for the betterment of Rwanda's future. Despite her inability to run, Ingabire remains a vocal critic, advocating for a political environment where the Rwandan people can freely choose their leaders. Her continued push for political reform highlights the ongoing struggle for democratic space in Rwanda as the country heads to the polls. 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 Generation" - Balancing Unconditional Presidential Support and a Desire for Change Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond Jul 5, 2024 Supporters at a Kagame rally display expressions of uncertainty and reluctance. As the Rwandan presidential election approaches in July, Paul Kagame is set to run for his fourth term. A pivotal figure who ended the 1994 genocide against the Tutsis, Kagame positions himself as a paternal leader, ensuring stability and prosperity for millions. For 24 years, he has consistently been re-elected with no less than 93% of the vote. Most Rwandans, under thirty, have only known him as their president. However, many observers describe Kagame's regime, with only one tolerated dissident party, as authoritarian. While the overwhelming majority of the youth support the presidential party blindly, some seek change. This article explores the "Kagame Generation." As the July 15 presidential election nears, Paul Kagame’s Rwandan Patriotic Front (FPR) is actively campaigning. The president holds rallies before tens of thousands across the nation. Re-elected in 2017 with 98% of the vote, the FPR’s undisputed leader inspires trust and loyalty among his supporters. Under his leadership, Rwanda has developed significantly, becoming one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa. However, the government faces regular accusations from human rights organizations of silencing critics. Only one opposition party, the Democratic Green Party, is allowed to contest him. At large FPR rallies, a majority of attendees are young, reflecting the nation's demographics. These under-30s did not experience the Tutsi genocide, which Kagame ended in 1994. They have only known one president. In this report, a team of journalists followed three young people representing the "Kagame Generation." They met Bénigne, a young party member who praises the president’s 24-year tenure and actively participates in party activities. In Kigali, the journalists also interviewed Mutesi, a young entrepreneur running an alcohol shop, who shares her story of striving in a country with a high youth unemployment rate of nearly 20%. Finally, they followed Jean-de-Dieu, leader of the youth in the Democratic Green Party, the only permitted opposition. These three young voices represent the generation heading to the polls in mid-July. 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

Ingabire Questions Legitimacy of Kagame’s Landslide Victory with lack of fairness and competition Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Mbeki edmond Jul 17, 2024 Rwandan opposition leader Victoire Ingabire Rwandan opposition leader Victoire Ingabire has dismissed President Paul Kagame’s landslide electoral win, challenging the legitimacy of an election she claims lacked genuine competition. Provisional results announced by the National Electoral Commission (NEC) showed Kagame receiving 99.15 percent of the votes, a total of 7,099,810 out of 7,160,864 counted. His opponents, Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party and independent candidate Philippe Mpayimana, garnered only 38,301 votes (0.53 percent) and 22,753 votes (0.32 percent), respectively. Ingabire, a former convict, was barred from running in the election. She has criticized the election as neither free nor fair and called on President Kagame to open up Rwanda’s democratic space. Ingabire argues that the lack of real competition undermines the legitimacy of Rwanda's democracy and restricts the electorate’s ability to choose their leaders. In March 2024, Rwanda’s High Court denied Ingabire’s application for rehabilitation, preventing her from regaining her civic rights, including the right to travel and participate in elections. She has since taken her case to the East African Court of Justice (EACJ) seeking interim measures to prevent the harm caused by her exclusion from the presidential race. This case is still pending. Responding to Kagame’s victory, Ingabire emphasized that the results, where Kagame secured over 99 percent of the vote, highlight the lack of competition. Ms Ingabire said it would not have happened if there was a level playfield. “The fact that President Kagame has won with over 99 percent shows that there was no competition,” she said. Ingabire, who has been a vocal critic of Kagame’s administration, left Rwanda for the Netherlands in 1994. She founded a political party in 2006 and returned to Rwanda in 2010 to participate in the presidential election but was arrested, tried, and sentenced to 15 years in prison for inciting divisionism and conspiring against the government. In 2017, the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights ruled that Rwanda had violated her rights to freedom of expression and defense. She was released on a presidential pardon in September 2018 after serving eight years. Ingabire has also sought permission to visit her ailing husband in the Netherlands and hopes she will be allowed to leave the country now that the elections are over. Meanwhile, Kagame’s competitors have conceded defeat, as he prepares for his fourth term. Speaking at the Rwanda Patriotic Front (RPF) headquarters in Kigali after the interim results were announced, Kagame thanked his supporters and emphasized the trust placed in him. Polling was smooth, with many voters dressed in traditional attire and polling stations decorated like wedding venues. The NEC allowed voters to cast their ballots at any polling station, a departure from previous elections. Voting ended at 3 pm, with immediate counting, and results from each polling station were consolidated at the district level before being transferred to the national tallying center. Provisional results will be announced on July 20, with final results declared on July 27. 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

President Ruto Ready to Dialogue with Youth Protesting Finance Bill Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire Jun 24, 2024 President William Ruto and an angry youth on the right. In a move to address growing unrest, President William Ruto has expressed readiness to engage with young Kenyans protesting the new public finance bill. The bill, which proposes new taxes, has sparked widespread opposition, particularly among the youth. Last week saw thousands take to the streets across Kenya, demanding the bill's cancellation. Tragically, Thursday's demonstrations resulted in the deaths of two young protesters and left at least 200 injured, according to human rights organizations. On June 23, the protests continued in front of the Holy Family Basilica in Nairobi. Kanana Koome, a student, voiced the group's concerns, stating, "This law imposes heavy taxes on Kenyans, leading to oppression and a poor quality of life for those less wealthy." Milan, a 24-year-old participant, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the bleak job prospects for graduates and urging action to prevent future generations from facing even harsher conditions. Protests also erupted in Nyahururu, 200 kilometers north of Nairobi, where President Ruto attended Sunday mass. Addressing the nation for the first time since the protests began, Ruto acknowledged the youth's mobilization and expressed his willingness to dialogue. "We will identify your problems and work together as a nation," he assured. The youth's determination and the president's response mark a critical juncture in Kenya's ongoing debate over the finance bill. As both sides prepare for dialogue, the nation watches closely to see how these discussions will shape the future of Kenya's fiscal policies. 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

Record-Breaking Refugee Team Set for 2024 Paris Olympics including Africans: A Beacon of Hope Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Copy link Ayize claire May 5, 2024 ​ The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has proudly announced the selection of its largest ever Refugee Olympic Team for the 2024 Paris Olympics. This groundbreaking team is composed of 36 athletes from 11 countries who will participate in 12 sports, representing a poignant message of hope and inclusion to the world’s 100 million displaced individuals. The athletes, originating from diverse nations including several African countries, Syria, Iran, Afghanistan, Venezuela, and Cuba, were chosen based on their sporting performance, refugee status in host nations, and a balanced representation of sports and gender. The 2024 team, which includes 23 men and 13 women from three continents, is set to compete under its own emblem featuring a heart, symbolizing the core Olympic values of unity and peace. IOC President Thomas Bach highlighted the emotional and symbolic significance of the team, noting that it serves as a beacon of hope and a stark reminder of the global refugee crisis. The participation of the Refugee Team, which has grown from its inception in the 2016 Rio Olympics, aims to draw attention to the plight of displaced persons and foster a spirit of global solidarity. As the Paris Olympics draw near, the presence of the Refugee Olympic Team will not only showcase athletic excellence but also champion the cause of refugees worldwide, echoing the resilience and courage of those forced to flee their homes. The team’s journey from past Olympics in Rio and Tokyo to Paris represents a continuing commitment by the IOC to support displaced athletes and use sport as a bridge to overcome adversity. This participation in the Paris 2024 Olympics underlines the profound impact of sports in uniting people, promoting peace, and inspiring hope across the globe. 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