In a twist that football fans didn't see coming, David Carmo's international debut for his country was marred by an own goal, an uncommon start for the defender known for his reliability on the field. This incident happened during a friendly match between Morocco and Angola, turning what was supposed to be a showcase of international talent into a moment of individual adversity for Carmo. The own goal not only sparked discussions among the football community but also highlighted the unpredictability and pressure of playing at the international level. Despite this setback, David Carmo's journey to the international scene has been marked by strong performances at the club level, establishing him as a formidable presence in defense. The own goal, while unfortunate, serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges athletes face, especially when stepping onto the larger stage of international football. It's a test of resilience and character, not just for Carmo but for any player who finds themselves in a similar predicament. The friendly match between Morocco and Angola was more than just a game; it was a narrative of highs and lows, of unexpected turns that football often presents. For Carmo, the match was an opportunity to shine on the international stage, but the own goal added a layer of complexity to his debut. It's a moment that will be remembered not for the scoreline but for the personal journey of a player navigating the highs and lows of professional football. As the dust settles on the friendly match, the focus shifts to how David Carmo will rebound from this experience. It's a storyline that goes beyond the 90 minutes on the pitch, touching on themes of resilience, redemption, and the ever-present scrutiny faced by those in the public eye. The football community, connected by hashtags like #xtrafrica and discussions on social media, watches eagerly to see how Carmo's story will unfold, turning his initial setback into a stepping stone for future successes. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment Mar 24, 2024 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Center Back for FC Porto playing on Loan for FC Braga. @jogadores In a twist that football fans didn't see coming, David Carmo's international debut for his country was marred by an own goal, an uncommon start for the defender known for his reliability on the field. This incident happened during a friendly match between Morocco and Angola, turning what was supposed to be a showcase of international talent into a moment of individual adversity for Carmo. The own goal not only sparked discussions among the football community but also highlighted the unpredictability and pressure of playing at the international level. Despite this setback, David Carmo's journey to the international scene has been marked by strong performances at the club level, establishing him as a formidable presence in defense. The own goal, while unfortunate, serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges athletes face, especially when stepping onto the larger stage of international football. It's a test of resilience and character, not just for Carmo but for any player who finds themselves in a similar predicament. ADVERTISEMENT The friendly match between Morocco and Angola was more than just a game; it was a narrative of highs and lows, of unexpected turns that football often presents. For Carmo, the match was an opportunity to shine on the international stage, but the own goal added a layer of complexity to his debut. It's a moment that will be remembered not for the scoreline but for the personal journey of a player navigating the highs and lows of professional football. As the dust settles on the friendly match, the focus shifts to how David Carmo will rebound from this experience. It's a storyline that goes beyond the 90 minutes on the pitch, touching on themes of resilience, redemption, and the ever-present scrutiny faced by those in the public eye. The football community, connected by hashtags like #xtrafrica and discussions on social media, watches eagerly to see how Carmo's story will unfold, turning his initial setback into a stepping stone for future successes. ADVERTISEMENT Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tags

Nigerian rapper CDQ says cabals and gangs influence success in the music industry, urging stakeholders to change the culture. CDQ has sparked fresh debate about the realities of Nigeria’s music industry after claiming that success often depends on who you know—and the groups you belong to. According to Daily Post , the rapper shared his thoughts during a recent conversation with content creator JBrandy , where he spoke candidly about what he sees as the hidden power structures shaping the industry. The Nowo Soke hitmaker argued that many artists face significant obstacles if they are not connected to influential circles. In his view, the music business has increasingly become a space where affiliation with certain groups, cliques, or powerful networks can determine who gets opportunities and support. CDQ suggested that artists who manage to break through without aligning themselves with these circles are fortunate. He described the industry as one where talent alone does not always guarantee progress, adding that some musicians invest heavily in their careers without seeing meaningful results because they lack the right connections. His comments shine a light on a long-running conversation within the Nigerian entertainment scene about access, gatekeeping, and industry politics. While the country continues to produce global stars and dominate African music charts, questions about who controls opportunities behind the scenes remain a recurring topic among artists and fans. The rapper also used the interview to call for change. He urged artists, record label executives, and other key players in the music business to move away from linking music success with gangster culture or group affiliations. As Nigeria’s music industry continues to grow on the global stage, CDQ’s remarks are likely to fuel further discussions about whether talent, hard work, and creativity are enough—or whether industry connections still play the biggest role in determining who rises to the top. Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT CDQ Says Music Industry Success Often Depends on Powerful Cliques By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Jun 4, 2026 Jun 4, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: CDQ has sparked fresh debate about the realities of Nigeria’s music industry after claiming that success often depends on who you know—and the groups you belong to. According to Daily Post , the rapper shared his thoughts during a recent conversation with content creator JBrandy , where he spoke candidly about what he sees as the hidden power structures shaping the industry. ADVERTISEMENT The Nowo Soke hitmaker argued that many artists face significant obstacles if they are not connected to influential circles. In his view, the music business has increasingly become a space where affiliation with certain groups, cliques, or powerful networks can determine who gets opportunities and support. CDQ suggested that artists who manage to break through without aligning themselves with these circles are fortunate. He described the industry as one where talent alone does not always guarantee progress, adding that some musicians invest heavily in their careers without seeing meaningful results because they lack the right connections. ADVERTISEMENT His comments shine a light on a long-running conversation within the Nigerian entertainment scene about access, gatekeeping, and industry politics. While the country continues to produce global stars and dominate African music charts, questions about who controls opportunities behind the scenes remain a recurring topic among artists and fans. The rapper also used the interview to call for change. He urged artists, record label executives, and other key players in the music business to move away from linking music success with gangster culture or group affiliations. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . ADVERTISEMENT As Nigeria’s music industry continues to grow on the global stage, CDQ’s remarks are likely to fuel further discussions about whether talent, hard work, and creativity are enough—or whether industry connections still play the biggest role in determining who rises to the top. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs Inside the Nigerian dancer’s rise from Ojo street shows to Afrobeats stages, music and global fame. . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life How Eric Omondi rose through Churchill Show and became a prominent Kenyan activist. . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? The neuroscientist and educator became Eritrea’s first Miss World entrant and reached the Top 6 . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigeria Nigeria

Read Ayra Starr’s biography: her age, real name, Cotonou childhood, Mavin breakthrough, albums, Grammy nominations and 2026 plans. Ayra Starr is a Nigerian singer and songwriter whose deep-toned Afropop voice has carried a Cotonou-and-Lagos upbringing onto the global stage. Born Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, she moved from teenage modelling and online song covers to Mavin Records, then announced herself with “Away,” 19 & Dangerous and the worldwide crossover “Rush.” Her official X profile reflects the same direct, playful persona heard in her music. By August 2026, Starr had earned two Grammy nominations, a BET Best International Act award and consecutive MOBO Best International Act wins. Her next chapter is already dated: the third album Starr Girl is scheduled for 14 August 2026. Who is Ayra Starr? Ayra Starr is a Nigerian Afropop and R&B singer born in Cotonou, Benin. Discovered through an original song posted online, she became a Mavin Records star, broke internationally with “Rush,” released two acclaimed albums and grew into a two-time Grammy nominee and major global award winner. From Cotonou Choirs to Lagos: Formative Life and Creative Roots Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe was born on 14 June 2002 in Cotonou, Benin. She is 24 years old as of 10 August 2026. Her childhood unfolded across Cotonou, Lagos and other cities as her family moved, exposing her to different languages, communities and musical traditions. Mavin’s official Ayra Starr biography confirms her birth name and Cotonou–Lagos upbringing. Music began as a family activity. Starr grew up with four siblings; her mother encouraged the children’s creative interests, while her brother Dami later became a close songwriting partner. She sang in choirs, wrote songs and absorbed music ranging from Nigerian pop and gospel to Rihanna, Angélique Kidjo and 1990s icons. A Teen Vogue profile records that her mother saw Lagos as the place where that ambition could become a career. Education came first. Starr attended university unusually young and completed her studies before fully pursuing music. In a Pitchfork interview , she connected that discipline to her family’s support and expectations: “I come from a very humble background, and I still have the mindset to be very grounded.” Her first professional lane was modelling. She signed with Quove Models in 2018, appeared in campaigns and learned how image, styling and performance could work together. Music, however, remained the intended destination. An Instagram Original Becomes the Defining Breakthrough Continue Reading Full Article AFRICAN CULTURE Ayra Starr Biography: Age, Real Name, Songs and Grammy Rise By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Aug 10, 2026 Aug 17, 2026 11 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Ayra Starr is a Nigerian singer and songwriter whose deep-toned Afropop voice has carried a Cotonou-and-Lagos upbringing onto the global stage. Born Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, she moved from teenage modelling and online song covers to Mavin Records, then announced herself with “Away,” 19 & Dangerous and the worldwide crossover “Rush.” Her official X profile reflects the same direct, playful persona heard in her music. By August 2026, Starr had earned two Grammy nominations, a BET Best International Act award and consecutive MOBO Best International Act wins. Her next chapter is already dated: the third album Starr Girl is scheduled for 14 August 2026. Who is Ayra Starr? Ayra Starr is a Nigerian Afropop and R&B singer born in Cotonou, Benin. Discovered through an original song posted online, she became a Mavin Records star, broke internationally with “Rush,” released two acclaimed albums and grew into a two-time Grammy nominee and major global award winner. From Cotonou Choirs to Lagos: Formative Life and Creative Roots Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe was born on 14 June 2002 in Cotonou, Benin. She is 24 years old as of 10 August 2026. Her childhood unfolded across Cotonou, Lagos and other cities as her family moved, exposing her to different languages, communities and musical traditions. Mavin’s official Ayra Starr biography confirms her birth name and Cotonou–Lagos upbringing. Music began as a family activity. Starr grew up with four siblings; her mother encouraged the children’s creative interests, while her brother Dami later became a close songwriting partner. She sang in choirs, wrote songs and absorbed music ranging from Nigerian pop and gospel to Rihanna, Angélique Kidjo and 1990s icons. A Teen Vogue profile records that her mother saw Lagos as the place where that ambition could become a career. Education came first. Starr attended university unusually young and completed her studies before fully pursuing music. In a Pitchfork interview , she connected that discipline to her family’s support and expectations: “I come from a very humble background, and I still have the mindset to be very grounded.” Her first professional lane was modelling. She signed with Quove Models in 2018, appeared in campaigns and learned how image, styling and performance could work together. Music, however, remained the intended destination. An Instagram Original Becomes the Defining Breakthrough In 2019, Starr began posting covers and then shared an original song online. Don Jazzy saw the clip, invited her to Mavin’s studio and signed her after recognising more than a strong voice: he saw an artist with a developed point of view. That discovery turned social media from a display window into a route toward professional recording. Mavin introduced her publicly with the five-track Ayra Starr EP in January 2021. “Away” offered the first clear glimpse of her low, textured vocal tone and emotionally self-possessed writing. Seven months later, the debut album 19 & Dangerous expanded the world around it. “Bloody Samaritan” became a Nigerian No. 1 and established the “Sabi Girl” confidence that listeners would associate with her. The scale changed again with “Rush” in 2022. Its mix of self-belief, rhythm and an instantly recognisable vocal performance travelled beyond Nigeria, and the Recording Academy later nominated it for Best African Music Performance. XTRAfrica’s Ayra Starr songs page brings together that breakthrough era and the releases that followed. ADVERTISEMENT “Sabi Girl” Records: Sound, Craft and Achievements Ayra Starr’s catalogue moves between Afropop, Afrobeats, R&B, alté textures and global pop without hiding the grain of her voice. The contrast is central to her craft: a rich alto can sound vulnerable on a ballad, coolly dismissive on a breakup record or commanding over percussion. Her early work often used imagined stories; by The Year I Turned 21 , she was writing more openly about grief, independence, love and the disorientation of growing up while touring. The 2024 album marked both artistic and commercial expansion. Official Charts records a No. 80 peak on the UK albums chart, while Mavin identifies it as the first album by a Nigerian female artist to debut on the Billboard 200. Collaborations with Asake, Giveon, Coco Jones, Anitta and Seyi Vibez widened the album’s palette without removing Starr’s voice from the centre. Selected career achievements Earned Grammy nominations for “Rush” in 2024 and “Gimme Dat” with Wizkid in 2026, as confirmed by her Recording Academy record . Won BET Best International Act in 2025, her first BET victory, according to Channels Television . Won MOBO Best International Act in both 2025 and 2026; the 2026 MOBO results made the repeat official. Became the first Nigerian female artist to debut an album on the Billboard 200 with The Year I Turned 21 . Scored a fifth Nigerian No. 1 in 2026 when FOLA collaboration “treat u right” topped the TurnTable Nigeria Top 100 . XTRAfrica has also followed the wider movement around her catalogue, including the Rema collaboration in its feature on Ayra Starr and the new Afro-pop momentum . Cotonou, Yoruba Language and a Global Identity Starr describes herself as Nigerian, while Cotonou remains essential to her origin story. Her family roots connect her to Nigeria’s Yoruba culture, and she has spoken about learning Yoruba from her mother while her father encouraged formal English. French, Nigerian Pidgin and the experience of repeatedly entering new communities also shaped how she listens and adapts. That mobility does not make her music culturally vague. It helps explain why she can enter different genres without abandoning her phrasing, humour or Nigerian pop instincts. Mavin’s earlier profile of her influences points to Yoruba and Beninese music beside 2Face, Wande Coal, Aaliyah and Rihanna. Her identity is therefore layered but not speculative: Nigerian, Yoruba-connected, Cotonou-born and globally curious. Growing in Public: Confidence and the Personal Journey Fame arrived while Starr was still a teenager, placing private growth inside a public career. She has spoken about losing her father during her teenage years and later confronting that grief on “The Kids Are Alright.” In The Guardian’s 2024 interview , she described the safety of writing at home, where she could step away from the star persona and feel like “daddy’s girl Oyinkan.” The move to New York brought another adjustment. XTRAfrica reported her reflections on loneliness after relocating , while later interviews showed how the experience sharpened rather than erased her ambition. Her public philosophy combines audacity with boundaries: confidence is not the absence of grief or uncertainty, but the decision to keep creating through them. ADVERTISEMENT Ayra Starr Career Timeline Year Event Significance 2018 Signed with Quove Models Began professional work in image-making and performance before music fame. 2019 Posted an original song online and met Don Jazzy Turned online creativity into a Mavin recording opportunity. 2021 Released the Ayra Starr EP and 19 & Dangerous Established her voice, “Away” and the No. 1 “Bloody Samaritan.” 2022 Released “Rush” Delivered the international crossover that later earned a Grammy nomination. 2024 Released The Year I Turned 21 Expanded her emotional writing and entered the UK and US album charts. 2025 Won BET and two MOBO awards Converted global visibility into major international recognition. 2026 Earned a second Grammy nomination and another MOBO win Confirmed that her post-“Rush” career had sustained international weight. A New African Pop Generation and Ayra Starr’s Emerging Impact Ayra Starr’s emerging impact is larger than any one streaming record. She belongs to a generation of African women whose pop careers are simultaneously continental, diasporic and international. Her visibility challenges the old assumption that a young Nigerian woman must soften her voice, limit her fashion or choose between African specificity and global reach. The results are measurable: chart entries, festival stages, global collaborations and an audience of 18.8 million monthly Spotify listeners in August 2026. They are also cultural. She has made confidence sound youthful rather than rehearsed and helped open space for women who want Afropop to hold glamour, grief, humour and ambition at once. XTRAfrica’s coverage of her second Grammy-nomination season places that rise inside a broader African movement. Starr Girl and What Comes Next As of 10 August 2026, The Year I Turned 21 remains Ayra Starr’s latest released studio album. Her third, Starr Girl , is scheduled for 14 August. The official Ayra Starr music page lists “Tornado” as the current lead release, while her 2026 campaign has also included “Where Do We Go” and the FOLA collaborations driving Nigeria’s charts. At Teen Vogue Fest, Starr explained that the new album was recorded across Lagos, New York and Los Angeles and allowed her to move freely between R&B, pop and Afrobeats. Her clearest summary was brief: “This album is me existing in multitudes.” The Teen Vogue Fest interview frames Starr Girl as a project about taking creative power back. Live plans extend beyond release week: she is also billed for Afro+ Fest in September 2026 . XTRAfrica has documented her parallel interest in faith and an acting career , suggesting that her next phase may stretch beyond music without leaving it behind. Ayra Starr FAQs What is Ayra Starr’s real name? Ayra Starr’s full name is Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe. “Ayra Starr” is her professional stage name. How old is Ayra Starr? Ayra Starr is 24 years old as of 10 August 2026. She was born on 14 June 2002. Where was Ayra Starr born? She was born in Cotonou, Benin, and grew up across Cotonou, Lagos and other cities with her family. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Biography Angélique Kidjo Makes Hollywood Walk of Fame History . Biography Who Is Maya Boyd, Marvel’s New Storm Actress? . Biography Who Is KC Luxury? Real Name and NDLEA Case . Biography Chidimma Adetshina: Citizenship Case Explained . Biography Carlos Baleba: Age, Nationality, Career and Transfer . ADVERTISEMENT What nationality is Ayra Starr? Ayra Starr is Nigerian. She was born in Benin and has publicly connected her upbringing to Nigerian and Yoruba culture. Who are Ayra Starr’s parents? Their names are not necessary to her public biography. She has described her mother as a major supporter of her music and her late father as an important influence. Did Ayra Starr attend university? Yes. She entered university unusually young and completed her education before the full launch of her recording career. How did Ayra Starr become famous? Don Jazzy discovered an original song she posted online. Mavin introduced her in 2021, while “Bloody Samaritan” built Nigerian recognition and “Rush” delivered her global breakthrough. What are Ayra Starr’s biggest songs? Her best-known songs include “Away,” “Bloody Samaritan,” “Rush,” “Sability,” “Commas,” “Santa,” “Last Heartbreak Song,” “Gimme Dat,” “Where Do We Go” and “Tornado.” How many albums has Ayra Starr released? She has released two studio albums: 19 & Dangerous (2021) and The Year I Turned 21 (2024). Starr Girl is scheduled as her third album on 14 August 2026. Has Ayra Starr won a Grammy Award? No. The Recording Academy lists two nominations and no wins: “Rush” in 2024 and “Gimme Dat” with Wizkid in 2026. What awards has Ayra Starr won? Major verified honours include the 2025 BET Best International Act award and MOBO Best International Act in both 2025 and 2026. How many Spotify monthly listeners does Ayra Starr have? Spotify displayed 18.8 million monthly listeners in August 2026. The figure changes continuously and should always be published with its date. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography Angélique Kidjo Makes Hollywood Walk of Fame History Angélique Kidjo has made Hollywood Walk of Fame history. Explore the Beninese icon’s age, full name . Biography Who Is Maya Boyd, Marvel’s New Storm Actress? Meet Maya Boyd, the 23-year-old Broadway actress cast as Storm in Marvel’s new X-Men film. Her age . Biography Who Is KC Luxury? Real Name and NDLEA Case Who is KC Luxury? What is verified about Afolabi Kazeem Michael, his arrest and the NDLEA allegations . Biography Chidimma Adetshina: Citizenship Case Explained Why is Chidimma Adetshina facing deportation? Her biography, nationality dispute, court cases and .... . Tags Biography Biography Nigeria Nigeria Ayra Starr Ayra Starr

FARDC says 204 M23 rebels surrendered in eastern DRC as the army urges more fighters to lay down arms. The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo have called on more M23 fighters to lay down their arms after 7sur7 reported that 204 rebels surrendered in April and May 2026 in the area covered by the 34th military region. According to Major Dieudonné Kasereka, the military region’s communications officer, the fighters came from Lubero, Rutshuru and Masisi in North Kivu, as well as Kalehe in South Kivu. He said they arrived with weapons and other military equipment before being received by the national army. The FARDC says the latest surrenders reflect growing pressure inside M23 ranks, with the army urging other combatants to abandon the rebellion and present themselves to government forces. The report follows earlier surrender claims in eastern Congo, including a previous report on M23-RDF fighters surrendering to FARDC . The development comes as fighting and territorial shifts continue across North and South Kivu, where M23 remains one of the main armed actors in the conflict. Recent security tracking by Critical Threats has also noted continued clashes and reported withdrawals in parts of eastern DRC. Continue Reading Full Article WAR IN EASTERN DRC FARDC Urges More M23 Fighters to Surrender After 204 Rebels Surrender By Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Political Analyst Serge Kitoko Tshibanda Home Comment Jun 4, 2026 Jun 4, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo have called on more M23 fighters to lay down their arms after 7sur7 reported that 204 rebels surrendered in April and May 2026 in the area covered by the 34th military region. According to Major Dieudonné Kasereka, the military region’s communications officer, the fighters came from Lubero, Rutshuru and Masisi in North Kivu, as well as Kalehe in South Kivu. He said they arrived with weapons and other military equipment before being received by the national army. ADVERTISEMENT The FARDC says the latest surrenders reflect growing pressure inside M23 ranks, with the army urging other combatants to abandon the rebellion and present themselves to government forces. The report follows earlier surrender claims in eastern Congo, including a previous report on M23-RDF fighters surrendering to FARDC . ADVERTISEMENT The development comes as fighting and territorial shifts continue across North and South Kivu, where M23 remains one of the main armed actors in the conflict. Recent security tracking by Critical Threats has also noted continued clashes and reported withdrawals in parts of eastern DRC. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply . Scholarships UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans . Scholarships Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 Open Across Africa — How to Apply . African Culture Himba Clothing and Adornment: Meaning of Traditional Dress . International Relations Ndayishimiye Backs Leopards After Historic Draw With Portugal . ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Scholarships 120 EAC Master’s Scholarships Open to EAC Students — How to Apply Up to 120 EAC Master’s scholarships are open to nationals of eight East African countries, . Scholarships UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Opens to Africans UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 is open to African students with ... . Scholarships Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 Open Across Africa — How to Apply Chevening Scholarships 2027–2028 are open to eligible African applicants. See funding, . African Culture Himba Clothing and Adornment: Meaning of Traditional Dress What otjize, jewelry, hairstyles, and clothing represent in Himba culture . Tags Africa Africa DR.Congo DR.Congo FARDC FARDC DR Congo News DR Congo News M23 Rebels M23 Rebels

Find the top cafés in Luanda to work or unwind in 2025, with great WiFi, coffee, food and relaxed vibes for freelancers, travelers and locals. Luanda’s café scene has blossomed in recent years thanks to a growing community of freelancers, expats and locals who appreciate a good cup of coffee. After combing through official listings, traveler reviews and 2025 updates, here are eight spots that offer pleasant spaces for work or relaxed catch‑ups. Prices are estimates based on 2025 exchange rates (1 USD ≈ 915 AOA ). 1. Café Matabicho: free Wi‑Fi oasis in Masuika Plaza Nestled inside Masuika Plaza on Rua Centro Convenções S8, this bright café greets guests with friendly staff and a warm, secure atmosphere . Outdoor tables tucked beneath shade make it easy to plug in your laptop, and the fast service keeps your coffee topped up. The menu features cakes, coffees and light meals and there’s reliable free Wi‑FI , making it ideal for long work sessions. Price: A cappuccino and slice of cake will set you back about US$2.50 (≈ 2 300 AOA) . Weekend brunch boxes advertised on social media can reach 33 500 AOA (~US$37) , but these are meant for sharing. Local tip: Matabicho literally means “kill the bug,” an Angolan expression for breakfast. Order the breakfast platter and you’ll understand why locals linger over their morning coffee. For a glimpse of the café’s 2025 brunch spread, check out the official post on their Instagram page. The outdoor tables and smoothies scream “remote‑work heaven” ( see @cafematabicho ). 2. Cozy Café: modern brunch spot with indoor and outdoor seating Situated on Avenida de Portugal in the Ingombota district, Cozy Café has become the go‑to brunch venue for Luanda’s creative crowd. Wanderlog notes that the café serves Western‑style breakfasts and lunches made with premium ingredients like brown bread . Both indoor and outdoor seating cater to laptop warriors and casual diners , and reviewers highlight smoothies and detox drinks presented beautifully . Price: Continue Reading Full Article TRAVEL GUIDE 8 top cafés to work or chill in Luanda By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Dec 4, 2025 May 15, 2026 13 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Luanda’s café scene has blossomed in recent years thanks to a growing community of freelancers, expats and locals who appreciate a good cup of coffee. After combing through official listings, traveler reviews and 2025 updates, here are eight spots that offer pleasant spaces for work or relaxed catch‑ups. Prices are estimates based on 2025 exchange rates (1 USD ≈ 915 AOA ). 1. Café Matabicho: free Wi‑Fi oasis in Masuika Plaza Nestled inside Masuika Plaza on Rua Centro Convenções S8, this bright café greets guests with friendly staff and a warm, secure atmosphere . Outdoor tables tucked beneath shade make it easy to plug in your laptop, and the fast service keeps your coffee topped up. The menu features cakes, coffees and light meals and there’s reliable free Wi‑FI , making it ideal for long work sessions. Price: A cappuccino and slice of cake will set you back about US$2.50 (≈ 2 300 AOA) . Weekend brunch boxes advertised on social media can reach 33 500 AOA (~US$37) , but these are meant for sharing. Local tip: Matabicho literally means “kill the bug,” an Angolan expression for breakfast. Order the breakfast platter and you’ll understand why locals linger over their morning coffee. For a glimpse of the café’s 2025 brunch spread, check out the official post on their Instagram page. The outdoor tables and smoothies scream “remote‑work heaven” ( see @cafematabicho ). 2. Cozy Café: modern brunch spot with indoor and outdoor seating Situated on Avenida de Portugal in the Ingombota district, Cozy Café has become the go‑to brunch venue for Luanda’s creative crowd. Wanderlog notes that the café serves Western‑style breakfasts and lunches made with premium ingredients like brown bread . Both indoor and outdoor seating cater to laptop warriors and casual diners , and reviewers highlight smoothies and detox drinks presented beautifully . Price: ADVERTISEMENT Expect to pay US$15 (≈ 13 700 AOA) for a full brunch with coffee and juice. Snacks and smoothies range from US$3–5 (≈ 2 700–4 600 AOA) , placing it in the mid‑range bracket. Local tip: Cozy Café can get busy on weekend mornings. Visit on a weekday for faster service and ask for a table near the front window if you’re working because the Wi‑Fi signal is stronger there. For a peek at their November 2025 breakfast specials, scroll through the café’s verified Instagram feed (@cozycafe_angola). The lobster eggs Benedict and quinoa bowls look especially photogenic. 3. Trocadero Restaurante: French‑style patisserie with terrace Location & vibe: Trocadero Restaurante sits on Rua Ngola Mbandi (coordinates 56JP+HW7) and feels like a European café transplanted to Luanda . Wanderlog describes it as a delightful little café famous for its croissants and pain‑au‑chocolat . The inviting outdoor terrace offers fresh air and a respite from city noise . While the omelettes draw mixed reviews, baked goods consistently impress Price: A coffee and pastry costs around US$5 (≈ 4 600 AOA) . A larger breakfast with multiple pastries will run US$7–10 (≈ 6 400–9 200 AOA) . Local tip: Trocadero opens early (7 a.m. daily), so arrive with the sunrise to snag a terrace seat. The café’s 2025 social posts (@trocaderoluanda on Instagram) show croissants fresh from the oven, so if you see them in the display case, order immediately. 4. Sukara Angola: Lebanese pastry shop & pizzeria Location & vibe: Located on Avenida 21 de Janeiro in Morro Bento , Sukara is more than a café – it’s a Lebanese pastry shop and pizzeria with friendly service . According to Wanderlog, the shop offers halal cuisine (no pork) and serves shawarmas, wraps, grilled chicken and artisanal ice creams like coconut and caramel. Visitors praise the joyful atmosphere and efficient staff. Price: A shawarma with salad costs roughly US$10 (≈ 9 100 AOA) ; pizzas and fajitas are US$12–15 (≈ 11 000–13 700 AOA) . Ice‑cream scoops start around US$2 (≈ 1 800 AOA) . ADVERTISEMENT Local tip: Sukara stays open until 10 p.m , making it a nice evening work spot. Their 2025 Instagram feed (@sukara_angola) highlights limited‑edition desserts. Try the coconut ice cream if it’s available. 5. Restaurante Tendinha: rustic eatery with friendly service Location & vibe: Restaurante Tendinha sits on Rua da Missão 16 near central Luanda. Wanderlog notes that the restaurant enjoys a strong reputation among locals . Reviewers describe a small rustic space with outdoor tables. Despite its simplicity, the menu covers grilled fish, chicken, steak sandwiches and even tosta mixta (grilled cheese & ham), and service is fast and friendly. Price: A main course with soft drink costs around US$12 (≈ 11 000 AOA) . Lighter snacks are US$5–7 (≈ 4 600–6 400 AOA) . Local tip: This is a great spot for an affordable workday lunch. If you’re not fluent in Portuguese, the staff will often bring a sample of the dish to your table to help you decide. Search for “Restaurante Tendinha Luanda” on Threads (look for posts from mid‑2025) to see their weekday specials. Locals rave about the grilled fish. 6. O Café de Paris: classic cafeteria in Alvalade Location & vibe: Situated in the Alvalade neighborhood, O Café de Paris is a traditional cafeteria offering quality service. The business‑directory site BizMapDir notes that it operates from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays . The venue prides itself on professional service and competitive pricing . The simple interior resembles a Portuguese pastelaria, with polished wooden tables and a pastry‑laden counter. Price: A coffee and pastel de nata will cost about US$4 (≈ 3 700 AOA) . Light lunch plates hover around US$7–8 (≈ 6 400–7 300 AOA) . Local tip: Locals stop by for afternoon espresso and conversation. Don’t be surprised if strangers strike up a chat at your table. For a taste of the vibe, browse the café’s 2025 posts on X (@ocafedeparis_ao), where they often share photos of their cakes and short videos of live fado evenings. 7. Restaurante Café Del Mar: beachfront chic on Ilha de Luanda Location & vibe: Perched on the Ilha de Luanda peninsula, Café Del Mar is a seaside restaurant relaunched in 2016 after the original building was damaged by waves . The “African Chic” concept combines modern design with local touches. Diners enjoy bright daytime views of the Atlantic and intimate lighting in the evening. Wanderlog highlights a child‑friendly playground , attentive service and a diverse menu of national and international dishes . Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Travel Tips 6 most known rivers of Angola and how to actually experience them . Luxury Travel 8 Best Spots to Watch Movies in Luanda 2026 . Travel Tips How to Tour the Namib Desert Like a Local (Angola Side) . Food and Travel Top 6 Public Libraries in Luanda (City & Suburbs) 2026 . Luxury Travel Top 8 Festivals and Events Celebrated in Luanda, Angola . ADVERTISEMENT Price: Expect to spend US$25–30 (≈ 22 900–27 400 AOA) per person for a main dish and drink. Seafood platters and premium steaks can reach US$40 (≈ 36 600 AOA) . Local tip: Arrive before sunset to snag one of the lounge couches facing the ocean. There’s a small fee for beach sunbeds , so bring cash if you plan to sunbathe between work emails. The restaurant’s verified Instagram ( @cafedelmarluanda ) regularly posts 2025 events such as live DJ sets, which are perfect if you want to mix business with after‑work cocktails. 8. Second Cup Luanda: international chain with reliable Wi‑Fi Location & vibe: Canada’s Second Cup opened in Luanda a few years ago and now operates branches on Marginal de Luanda and at Quatro de Fevereiro airport . Though TripAdvisor lists limited reviews, it’s popular for travelers needing a caffeine fix before a flight . Expect modern décor, plenty of seating and a familiar menu of espresso drinks, smoothies and pastries. Price: A latte or Americano costs US$3–4 (≈ 2 700–3 700 AOA) . Sandwiches and salads are US$6–8 (≈ 5 500–7 300 AOA) . Local tip: The airport branch allows smokers in part of the bar , so opt for the non‑smoking side if you need to work. They often run promotions on cappuccinos and muffins. These eight cafés highlight how Luanda’s hospitality scene has evolved. From Lebanese pastries to beachside cocktails, there’s a spot for every work style and mood. Grab your laptop, order a strong café and experience the Angolan capital’s emerging coffee culture. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Travel Tips 6 most known rivers of Angola and how to actually experience them From the Kwanza to the Zambezi, discover Angola’s most famous rivers and how to explore them . Luxury Travel 8 Best Spots to Watch Movies in Luanda 2026 Luanda’s luxe movie spots, from 4DX thrills to velvet VIP lounges your 2026 cinema guide is here. . Travel Tips How to Tour the Namib Desert Like a Local (Angola Side) Tour Angola’s wild side: desert tribes, starlit dunes, and eco-adventures few tourists ever reach. . Food and Travel Top 6 Public Libraries in Luanda (City & Suburbs) 2026 From grand archives to under-bridge gems, Luanda’s libraries are where the city’s soul shelves itself. . Tags Travel Blog Travel Blog Angola Angola Travel Blog Travel Blog Travel & Tourism Travel & Tourism

MrBeast leads Forbes’ 2026 Top Creators list with $300m as creator earnings pass $1bn. MrBeast is still sitting at the top of the internet economy — and the gap between him and everyone else is huge. According to Forbes, Jimmy Donaldson, better known as MrBeast, ranked number one on the 2026 Forbes Top Creators list after earning an estimated $300 million between March 2025 and March 2026. The annual ranking, updated on July 1, tracks the world’s highest-earning digital creators across YouTube, TikTok, Instagram and other major platforms. This year’s list shows how far the creator business has moved beyond viral videos. Forbes reported that the top 50 creators made a combined $1.02 billion, crossing the billion-dollar mark for the first time. That figure is up from $853 million in 2025 and almost double the amount recorded when the list began in 2022. MrBeast ’ s lead is powered by more than YouTube views. His empire now stretches across Beast Industries, Feastables, Lunchly, Viewstats and his Amazon Prime reality series Beast Games. Forbes also listed his global audience at 873 million followers, making him the biggest name on the ranking by both money and reach. Dhar Mann came second with $65 million, while British entrepreneur and podcast host Steven Bartlett placed third with $52 million. Markiplier followed in fourth place with $38 million, and comedy duo Rhett & Link completed the top five with $37 million. The top 10 also included Codie Sanchez, IShowSpeed, Mark Rober, Ms. Rachel and Jesser. Their presence shows how wide the creator economy has become, covering gaming, education, finance, comedy, children’s content and lifestyle entertainment. For African creators watching from Lagos, Nairobi, Accra, Johannesburg or Kinshasa, the message is clear: digital fame is no longer just about posting consistently. The biggest creators are building companies, selling products, launching shows and turning fan communities into serious businesses. Forbes said the ranking considered estimated gross earnings, audience size, engagement and business ventures. That matters because the most powerful creators are no longer only competing with other influencers. They are now competing with television studios, record labels, media houses and consumer brands. Full Forbes Top 50 Creators 2026 List MrBeast — $300m — 873m followers Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT MrBeast Tops Forbes 2026 Top Creators List By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Jul 5, 2026 Jul 5, 2026 6 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: MrBeast is still sitting at the top of the internet economy — and the gap between him and everyone else is huge. According to Forbes, Jimmy Donaldson, better known as MrBeast, ranked number one on the 2026 Forbes Top Creators list after earning an estimated $300 million between March 2025 and March 2026. The annual ranking, updated on July 1, tracks the world’s highest-earning digital creators across YouTube, TikTok, Instagram and other major platforms. This year’s list shows how far the creator business has moved beyond viral videos. Forbes reported that the top 50 creators made a combined $1.02 billion, crossing the billion-dollar mark for the first time. That figure is up from $853 million in 2025 and almost double the amount recorded when the list began in 2022. MrBeast ’ s lead is powered by more than YouTube views. His empire now stretches across Beast Industries, Feastables, Lunchly, Viewstats and his Amazon Prime reality series Beast Games. Forbes also listed his global audience at 873 million followers, making him the biggest name on the ranking by both money and reach. Dhar Mann came second with $65 million, while British entrepreneur and podcast host Steven Bartlett placed third with $52 million. Markiplier followed in fourth place with $38 million, and comedy duo Rhett & Link completed the top five with $37 million. The top 10 also included Codie Sanchez, IShowSpeed, Mark Rober, Ms. Rachel and Jesser. Their presence shows how wide the creator economy has become, covering gaming, education, finance, comedy, children’s content and lifestyle entertainment. For African creators watching from Lagos, Nairobi, Accra, Johannesburg or Kinshasa, the message is clear: digital fame is no longer just about posting consistently. The biggest creators are building companies, selling products, launching shows and turning fan communities into serious businesses. Forbes said the ranking considered estimated gross earnings, audience size, engagement and business ventures. That matters because the most powerful creators are no longer only competing with other influencers. They are now competing with television studios, record labels, media houses and consumer brands. Full Forbes Top 50 Creators 2026 List ADVERTISEMENT MrBeast — $300m — 873m followers Dhar Mann — $65m — 171m followers Steven Bartlett — $52m — 38.7m followers Markiplier — $38m — 76.8m followers Rhett & Link — $37m — 45.6m followers Codie Sanchez — $31m — 10m followers IShowSpeed — $30m — 184m followers Mark Rober — $30m — 90.7m followers Ms. Rachel — $26m — 34.2m followers Jesser — $25m — 54.9m followers MrBallen — $24m — 31.4m followers Druski — $20m — 38.5m followers Charli D’Amelio — $18m — 209.8m followers Jacksepticeye — $18m — 48.9m followers Adam W — $17.3m — 67.2m followers Rebecca Zamolo — $15m — 45.3m followers Jake Shane — $14m — 6m followers Nick DiGiovanni — $14m — 65.4m followers ADVERTISEMENT Brent Rivera — $13.7m — 120.8m followers Typical Gamer — $13m — 31.6m followers Jordan The Stallion — $12.4m — 49.1m followers Stokes Twins — $12.4m — 177.5m followers Alix Earle — $12m — 14.5m followers Marques Brownlee — $10.9m — 33.6m followers Alan Chikin Chow — $10.5m — 131.4m followers Ashton Hall — $10m — 38.1m followers Khaby Lame — $9.9m — 252.1m followers James Dumoulin — $9.9m — 23.2m followers Haley Baylee — $9.6m — 37.4m followers Mikayla Nogueira — $9m — 21.8m followers Vivian Tu — $8.2m — 10.7m followers Dani Austin — $8.1m — 3.8m followers Tana Mongeau — $8m — 22.8m followers Nara Smith — $7.5m — 17.3m followers Nurse John — $7.2m — 19.2m followers Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . ADVERTISEMENT Leah Kateb — $7.1m — 11.4m followers Dixie D’Amelio — $7m — 72.9m followers Erika Kullberg — $6.8m — 21m followers Lexi Rivera — $6.7m — 56.3m followers Josh Richards — $6m — 34.7m followers Hannah Stocking — $5.8m — 74.4m followers Katie Fang — $5.4m — 8.2m followers Brooke Monk — $5.2m — 72.2m followers Anwar Jibawi — $5m — 83.9m followers Anna Sitar — $4.4m — 27.7m followers iJustine — $3.4m — 12.9m followers Tini Younger — $3m — 16.3m followers Drew Afualo — $2.7m — 13.4m followers Steven He — $2m — 29.6m followers Logan Moffitt — $1.3m — 10.6m followers MrBeast’s latest Forbes win confirms what the internet has been building toward for years: creators are no longer just entertainers on social media. At the highest level, they are media companies, product founders and global culture machines. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs Inside the Nigerian dancer’s rise from Ojo street shows to Afrobeats stages, music and global fame. . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life How Eric Omondi rose through Churchill Show and became a prominent Kenyan activist. . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? The neuroscientist and educator became Eritrea’s first Miss World entrant and reached the Top 6 . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment United States United States

Go beyond giant tortoises and explore Seychelles’ hidden wildlifefrom rare parrots to fruit bats and carnivorous plants wild, witty, and unforgettable. Seychelles’ giant tortoises get all the fame living dinosaur vibes and 150-year lifespans tend to steal the spotlight. But beyond those slow-moving celebrities, these islands hide a whole cast of quirky, lesser-known creatures. Think stealthy parrots, “vampire” trees, and bats the size of seagulls. This Indian Ocean paradise boasts dozens of endemic species found nowhere else . So slip off that sun lounger and venture into the wild side of Seychelles. From forest canopies to coral reefs, here are eight overlooked wildlife encounters that will earn you serious bragging rights and a newfound love for Seychelles beyond the beach. Ready for a wild island adventure ? Pack your binoculars (and bug spray), embrace your inner Attenborough, and get set to meet the Seychellois critters and curiosities that put the “wild” in wildlife. We’re talking about experiences as unforgettable as any sunset on Beau Vallon. Let’s dive in, one awesome animal (or plant) at a time, with local tips to help you spot each all served with a side of that trademark Time Out sass. 1. Praslin’s “Black” Parrots in a Coco de Mer Forest Moody, mysterious, and only found in Praslin’s primeval palm jungles, the Seychelles Black Parrot is a diva that prefers to stay incognito. Ironically, this national bird isn’t black at all more like a smoky brown, perfectly camouflaged in the Vallée de Mai rainforest . Fewer than a thousand exist, flitting around the palms and letting out the occasional sharp whistle from above. Catching a glimpse is like finding Bigfoot: these shy parrots blend into the shadows of giant Coco de Mer fronds. But if you do hear a sudden peep overhead, pause you might just spot a rare feathery silhouette watching you from the canopy. Like this rare scene from @visitseychelles six elusive Black Parrots caught snacking in a palm tree on Praslin. These sleek island icons are as endemic and as attitude-filled as it gets. And they’re just the beginning. From vampire plants and sky-surfing bats to underwater giants, here’s your guide to Seychelles’ wildest residents you’ve probably never heard of. Where & how: Head to Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve on Praslin, a UNESCO-listed “Garden of Eden” famous for its Coco de Mer palms (and those suggestively shaped nuts). Go at dawn when the forest is hushed; early morning birdwatching tours have the best odds of coaxing out a parrot or two . Continue Reading Full Article Beyond Giant Tortoises: 10 Overlooked Wildlife of Seychelles By Neema Asha Mwakalinga Travel & Culture Expert Neema Asha Mwakalinga Home Comment Oct 22, 2025 May 15, 2026 24 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Seychelles’ giant tortoises get all the fame living dinosaur vibes and 150-year lifespans tend to steal the spotlight. But beyond those slow-moving celebrities, these islands hide a whole cast of quirky, lesser-known creatures. Think stealthy parrots, “vampire” trees, and bats the size of seagulls. This Indian Ocean paradise boasts dozens of endemic species found nowhere else . So slip off that sun lounger and venture into the wild side of Seychelles. From forest canopies to coral reefs, here are eight overlooked wildlife encounters that will earn you serious bragging rights and a newfound love for Seychelles beyond the beach. Ready for a wild island adventure ? Pack your binoculars (and bug spray), embrace your inner Attenborough, and get set to meet the Seychellois critters and curiosities that put the “wild” in wildlife. We’re talking about experiences as unforgettable as any sunset on Beau Vallon. Let’s dive in, one awesome animal (or plant) at a time, with local tips to help you spot each all served with a side of that trademark Time Out sass. 1. Praslin’s “Black” Parrots in a Coco de Mer Forest Moody, mysterious, and only found in Praslin’s primeval palm jungles, the Seychelles Black Parrot is a diva that prefers to stay incognito. Ironically, this national bird isn’t black at all more like a smoky brown, perfectly camouflaged in the Vallée de Mai rainforest . Fewer than a thousand exist, flitting around the palms and letting out the occasional sharp whistle from above. Catching a glimpse is like finding Bigfoot: these shy parrots blend into the shadows of giant Coco de Mer fronds. But if you do hear a sudden peep overhead, pause you might just spot a rare feathery silhouette watching you from the canopy. Like this rare scene from @visitseychelles six elusive Black Parrots caught snacking in a palm tree on Praslin. These sleek island icons are as endemic and as attitude-filled as it gets. And they’re just the beginning. From vampire plants and sky-surfing bats to underwater giants, here’s your guide to Seychelles’ wildest residents you’ve probably never heard of. Where & how: Head to Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve on Praslin, a UNESCO-listed “Garden of Eden” famous for its Coco de Mer palms (and those suggestively shaped nuts). Go at dawn when the forest is hushed; early morning birdwatching tours have the best odds of coaxing out a parrot or two . Entry isn’t cheap at about SCR 450 (≈ $30 ) per adult , but it funds vital conservation. Local tip: hire a knowledgeable guide at the gate (around SCR 100, ~$7) who knows the parrots’ favorite fruit trees. With some patience and a bit of luck you’ll witness Praslin’s “brown” parrots flying free. Trust us, that moment a rare parrot swoops overhead is pure island magic. 2. La Digue’s Widow-Maker: Paradise Flycatchers Serving gothic elegance with a hint of drama, the Seychelles Paradise Flycatcher flaunts a tail longer than its whole body . The locals dub it “Veuve” (widow) because the all-black males look like Victorian widows in mourning albeit widows with ridiculously long tail feathers. These stunners nearly flapped off into extinction (down to maybe 30 birds at one point), but thanks to heroic conservation they’ve bounced back to a few hundred now . Most still haunt the forests of La Digue island, where they flit among takamaka trees and swoop low to snatch insects mid-air. Catching a glimpse of a male flycatcher dancing through sunbeams tail ribbons trailing behind is like spotting a tiny flying goth concert. Where & how: La Digue’s Veuve Nature Reserve is the go-to for a rendezvous with this “widow” bird. This modest patch of woodland sits near La Digue’s L’Union area and protects the flycatcher’s last stronghold. Pop in at sunrise when these divas are most vocal you might hear a raspy tsk-tsk call before seeing them. Bring binoculars and look for a flash of inky black or chestnut (females are brown). Entry is only SCR 150 (~ $10 ) for visitors , which includes a peek at the tiny info center. Pro tip: ask the ranger to point out the flycatchers’ favorite kapok trees. If you’re lucky, you’ll witness a courting pair doing acrobatic loops through the air the fanciest aerial love show in the Seychelles. Not bad for an animal smaller than a soda can! 3. Cousin Island’s Comeback Kid: Seychelles Magpie Robin Meet the bold little songbird that went from nearly zero to national hero. The Seychelles Magpie Robin is a dapper black-and-white bird with a cheeky personality it literally hops around your feet and poses as if it owns the place. Back in 1965, only 16 of these robins were left on Earth, all clinging to one predator-free islet . They call it the “comeback kid” of Seychelles and with good reason. Once down to barely a dozen birds, the Seychelles Magpie Robin has clawed its way back from extinction’s edge. On Fregate Island, this glossy black-and-white songbird now struts through forest trails like it owns the place proof that conservation miracles really do sing. ADVERTISEMENT Now, after intense conservation efforts, over 500 thrive across several islands. Talk about a comeback! On tiny Cousin Island (their main hangout), magpie robins act like your personal welcoming committee: warbling unique songs and following visitors along jungle paths hoping we’ll stir up tasty insects for them. One might even tug your shoelace if you stand still these feathered fellas have zero shame when it comes to begging for bug snacks. Where & how: Cousin Island Special Reserve, just 2 km off Praslin, is the spot to meet these avian celebrities. It’s only accessible by guided tour a 15-minute boat ride brings you to what feels like a lost world of birds. The reserve strictly controls visitor numbers, and there’s a SCR 600 (~ $45 ) conservation fee per head (cash only, so stash those rupees!). A park ranger will lead you around; stick close as they know each robin by “name” (some wear colored bands). You’ll likely see magpie robins hop right up to you on the trail or even land on an outstretched hand with no predators around, they’re utterly fearless. Local tip: wear sturdy shoes and insect repellent (Cousin’s mosquitos are also enthusiastic greeters). By tour’s end, you’ll have a new appreciation for this once-endangered bird and possibly a robin BFF for life. 4. Flying Foxes at Dusk: Seychelles Fruit Bats When twilight falls in the Seychelles, look up those “birds” silhouetted against the pink sky are actually megabats on the move. The Seychelles Flying Fox (a fruit bat) is the islands’ only native mammal, sporting a foxy little face and a 1.2 m wingspan. Basically, picture a golden retriever-size bat gliding overhead like a kite. By day they snooze in treetops, hanging upside down like umbrellas; by night they glide out in squadrons to raid fruit trees. When dusk falls over Seychelles, the real sky show begins and no, it’s not the sunset. Those swooping silhouettes above the palms? Meet the Seychelles fruit bat , a furry, golden-faced pollinator that keeps the islands’ forests blooming. Equal parts adorable and chaotic, these “flying foxes” are the islands’ unsung gardeners just don’t leave your mangoes unattended. Locals have a love-hate thing with these guys: they’re vital pollinators for island plants, but they also help themselves to mangoes and guavas with zero remorse. (Fun fact: fruit bat curry is a traditional dish in Seychelles though these days you’re more likely to shoot them with a camera than see them on a menu .) Where & how: Honestly, almost anywhere at sundown. Park yourself on Beau Vallon beach on Mahé or by a La Digue coconut grove around 6:00 pm cocktail in hand and enjoy the free wildlife show above. You’ll see the bats emerge in twos and threes, flapping lazily across the orange sky. It’s a bit eerie, a bit awe-inspiring, and 100% Seychellois. Cost? Absolutely free (though a cold Seybrew beer at a beach bar will run you ~ SCR 60 / $4 worth it to complete the vibe). If you’re keen to see them up close by day, head to the Victoria Botanical Gardens or any big fig tree; you might spot dozens of furry bat buddies napping in a cluster. Just don’t stand directly under them unless you want a surprise “shower”. 😉 Local tip: These “flying foxes” are harmless they want fruit, not blood, so relax and admire their sunset sky surfing. It’s island life at its finest. 5. Katiti on the Hunt: Seychelles Kestrel This pint-sized predator packs more swagger than a bull eagle ten times its size. The Seychelles Kestrel , known as Katiti in Creole, is the islands’ only native bird of prey . How tiny are we talking? About 20 cm tall small enough to fit in your hand yet this falcon doesn’t let size stop it from ruling the skies. You’ll often see a katiti perched proudly on telephone poles or breadfruit trees, scanning for geckos and skinks to snatch up for dinner . Unlike other kestrels, our island version doesn’t bother with the whole hovering thing; it prefers a swift dive-bomb attack. They even skip building nests, sometimes crashing in on somebody else’s abandoned tree hole or under house eaves like a true millennial. Small bird, big boss energy. Where & how: You’ve got the best chance on Mahé , the largest island. Keep your eyes peeled around the outskirts of Victoria and the forested slopes of Morne Seychellois National Park . Listen for a sharp “kee-kee-kee” call echoing off the granite cliffs that’s a katiti announcing its territory. There’s no fee or tour required for this adventure (Mother Nature doesn’t charge, darling), so you can wander hiking trails or even around your hotel grounds with binoculars on standby. ADVERTISEMENT If you’re a keen birder, consider hiring a local guide (~ SCR 800 or $55 for a half day) who can whistle the kestrel’s call; these curious raptors often swoop in if they think another katiti is intruding. True story: one pair even nested in the Victoria airport rafters, giving a few lucky travelers a wildlife welcome! Local tip: patience . Take a seat by a clearing and watch the treetops spotting this mini falcon on its throne is immensely satisfying, like finding a rare Pokémon in the wild. 6. Gentle Giants of the Reef: Whale Sharks Yes, you read that right the world’s largest fish makes an annual appearance in Seychelles, and surprisingly few visitors know about it. Whale sharks (which are actually colossal, polka-dotted sharks, not whales) cruise through these turquoise waters each year to feed on plankton. Come the peak season around October to December , these gentle behemoths are often spotted near Mahé and the inner islands . As @visitseychelles perfectly captured, few island moments beat spotting a whale shark gliding beneath your boat. Locals call this gentle giant Sagren a plankton-loving leviathan that drifts through Seychelles’ cobalt waters between September and November. One moment you’re snapping selfies on deck, the next you’re staring down a twelve-meter masterpiece of nature, polka-dotted and peaceful, reminding everyone who really rules these waters. Imagine snorkeling and suddenly seeing a 10-meter spotted giant gliding by heart-poundingly thrilling, yet strangely peaceful as they’re filter-feeders that couldn’t care less about puny humans. Seychelles authorities even put out advisories when whale sharks arrive, reminding boaters to go slow and not play bumper cars with our big visitors . It’s basically an open-invite whale shark party in the Indian Ocean, and you’re invited to crash it (respectfully). Where & how: Base yourself on Mahé during whale shark season (October–November is a sure bet ). Beau Vallon Bay on Mahé’s northwest coast is the hub for whale shark excursions, with licensed dive operators heading out almost daily in peak months . Sign up for a snorkeling tour around SCR 1500 –2000 per person (≈ $100–$135 ) for a half-day boat trip with gear. It’s a splurge, but how often do you get to swim alongside a spotted giant? Tours usually start with a briefing on shark etiquette: no touching, no chasing, just gentle observing. If you’d rather stay dry, sometimes you can even spot whale sharks from viewpoints or while ferry-hopping between islands (look for dark shadows near the surface). But nothing beats slipping into the water with them. As you float alongside a whale shark, watching it sweep majestically through the blue, you’ll feel positively tiny and utterly humbled. Local tip: Bring a GoPro or at least an underwater camera (and a buddy to snap your photo) because your friends will demand proof of that time you swam with a 30-foot fish. And always listen to your guide these sharks are harmless, but good ocean manners keep both you and the animals safe . 7. Daytime Nesters: Hawksbill Sea Turtles Many tropical destinations boast about sea turtles, but in Seychelles you might literally share the beach with one. The critically endangered Hawksbill turtle is an island VIP that comes ashore to nest in surprising daylight hours no night-vision goggles needed here. Picture this: you’re lounging on the soft sands of Anse Lazio or wandering a quiet cove, and up waddles a 150-pound mama turtle, flippers flying sand everywhere as she digs a nest. Hawksbills lay eggs on Seychelles’ beaches from roughly September to March (peaking around November-January), and thanks to strict protection, they’re pretty relaxed about human onlookers. It’s a jaw-dropping sight ancient instincts on display and most casual travelers don’t realize it can happen during their afternoon beach picnic! As @ tbo.academy reminds us, Seychelles isn’t just a postcard it’s a full-blown tropical playground. Think snorkelling between coral gardens, hopping from island to island, and watching turtles nest under a pink dusk sky. With easy visa-free entry and a rhythm that runs on island time, it’s little wonder travellers keep falling for this Indian Ocean beauty. Where & how: For the best chance, visit protected sanctuaries or quieter beaches where turtles feel safe. Cousin Island and Curieuse Island (both near Praslin) are turtle nesting hotbeds join a guided excursion to these islands, where wardens will lead you to recent nests and maybe a sighting of a turtle laying eggs or hatchlings scampering to sea. Curieuse has an entry fee of SCR 300 (~ $20 ), often included in island-hopping tours that also stop to see giant tortoises (two wildlife treats in one!). Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Beyond Giant Tortoises: 10 Overlooked Wildlife of Seychelles . Top 10 Leisure Activities to Do in Seychelles in 2025 . Top 10 Budget-Friendly Accommodations in Seychelles . Top 10 Hidden Gems of Seychelles . Travel Guide Where to Drink in Paradise: Seychelles’ 10 Best Bars of 2025 . ADVERTISEMENT On Praslin itself, keep an eye on Anse Georgette and Anse Lazio in the early morning or late afternoon . If you spot tracks or a big turtle, give her plenty of space she’s on a mission. Many resorts have turtle liaison programs; ask your hotel if they do turtle-watch calls for guests. Local tip: Never disturb a nesting turtle or her nest. No flash photography at night, no touching hatchlings (no matter how cute!). If you’re lucky to witness a daytime nesting, maintain a respectful distance and savor the natural wonder quietly. And yes, do the turtle a solid by covering up your own sandcastle pits before you leave the beach baby turtles can get trapped in our mess. Seeing a hawksbill up close, in broad daylight, is a once-in-a-lifetime memory that’ll make you forget all about those fame-hogging tortoises. 8. Carnivorous Plants on Copolia Trail Who knew Seychelles had its own little “Little Shop of Horrors” lurking in the mountains? High up on Mahé’s granite peaks grows the Seychelles Pitcher Plant a carnivorous cutie that snacks on insects. That’s right, amid the postcard palms and beaches, the islands hide an Agatha Christie -level plot twist: plants that eat bugs. These endemic pitcher plants (Nepenthes pervillei) sprout tiny mottled green-and-red “pitchers” that fill with digestive juice to trap unsuspecting ants and flies . Hikers often stroll right past them, mistaking them for odd little flowers, until a guide points out the telltale mini “cup” full of yesterday’s bug buffet . It’s equal parts gruesome and cool definitely an overlooked natural wonder in a tropical paradise better known for fauna than flora. As @greengenerationseychelles shows, not everything that bites in Seychelles has teeth. Meet the Seychelles Pitcher Plant , a rare little carnivore that snacks on unsuspecting insects instead of tourists. Endemic to the granite peaks of Mahé and Silhouette, this neon-green trap is part science fiction, part survival story proof that even paradise hides a few hungry secrets. Where & how: The easiest way to meet these insect-eating plants is to hike the Copolia Trail on Mahé. This popular trail (about 45 minutes uphill) winds through jungle to a panoramic rocky summit and it’s here on the exposed granite ledges that pitcher plants bask in the sun . Look down near your hiking boots: those little green cups with lids are the carnivores in question. No park entry fee required; this adventure is on Mother Nature’s house. Just bring water, sunscreen, and decent shoes. A guided hike can be arranged (expect ~ SCR 500 or $35 for a half-day group trek), but if you’re moderately fit, you can DIY the trail is well-marked. As you near the top, move slowly and keep your eyes peeled at ground level so you don’t accidentally step on these rare plants. They tend to cluster in patches, silently gobbling bugs while offering you a great excuse to catch your breath. Local tip: Don’t poke your finger into the liquid (eww, not coconut water!). Instead, crouch and gently lift a pitcher to peek inside you might see a few trapped insects awaiting digestion. Bragging rights unlocked: not many can say they’ve high-fived (figuratively) a carnivorous plant in the wild. Plus, the 360° island view from Copolia is absolutely worth the sweat. Reward yourself after the hike with a fresh coconut or a Seybrew at the trailhead, you’ve earned it. The Takeaway: Wild Encounters > Souvenir T-shirts There you have it eight wild reasons to peel yourself away from the infinity pool and discover the untamed soul of Seychelles. Sure, giant tortoises are awesome, but now you’ve tracked down stealthy parrots, ogled goth-looking birds, chilled with bats, and even said hello to a tree that eats bugs. Not your average beach holiday, huh? The key to these encounters is going a bit beyond the usual tourist trail: hire local guides for the hidden gems, venture to lesser-known islands, and always respect Mother Nature’s ground rules (no petting, feeding or harassing the wildlife even if that Coco de Mer nut really looks like it needs a squeeze). Think like a savvy islander: pack binoculars, wear comfy shoes, and keep a few rupees handy for park fees or post-hike sundowners. Early mornings and late afternoons are your best friend for wildlife spotting (animals have schedules too, you know). And don’t forget to simply slow down Seychelles may be small, but it’s bursting with life if you take the time to look. So next time you’re in this tropical paradise, go beyond the selfie with a tortoise. From making eye contact with a friendly magpie robin to swimming alongside a spotted giant, these are the moments that turn a trip into a story you’ll be telling for years. Trust your local friend here: this beats any cheesy souvenir T-shirt. Happy exploring, and may your Seychelles adventures be wild and wonderful ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Beyond Giant Tortoises: 10 Overlooked Wildlife of Seychelles Beyond the beach: uncover Seychelles’ secret wildlife stars, from stealthy parrots to vampire plants. . Top 10 Leisure Activities to Do in Seychelles in 2025 From kayaking clear waters to Creole feasts, discover Seychelles’ most exciting 2025 adventures . Top 10 Budget-Friendly Accommodations in Seychelles Proof that paradise doesn’t need to cost a fortune the best Seychelles stays under $150 a night. . Top 10 Hidden Gems of Seychelles Discover Seychelles’ secret beaches, jungles, and wild atolls beyond the typical tourist trail. . Tags Seychelles Seychelles Travel Blog Travel Blog travel abroad travel abroad Travel & Tourism Travel & Tourism Travel Blog Travel Blog Travel Africa Travel Africa

Adama Barrow biography covering his age, education, business career, 2016 victory, presidency, wife, children and 2026 election campaign. Adama Barrow is a Gambian politician, businessman and real-estate developer who has served as the third president of The Gambia since 19 January 2017. Born in Mankamang Kunda in 1965, he worked in commerce, studied real estate in the United Kingdom and founded Majum Real Estate before entering national politics. Barrow became the consensus candidate of an opposition coalition in 2016 and defeated Yahya Jammeh, ending 22 years of authoritarian rule. He won a second term in 2021 and is campaigning again in 2026, with his record now judged against unfinished democratic reforms, economic pressures and public demands for reliable electricity. Who is Adama Barrow? Adama Barrow is the president of The Gambia and leader of the National People’s Party. A former real-estate businessman, he won the historic 2016 election that removed Yahya Jammeh, survived the resulting constitutional crisis and was re-elected in 2021. He is 61 years old as of September 2026. Early Life in Mankamang Kunda Adama Barrow was born on 15 February 1965 in Mankamang Kunda, a village in the Jimara district of The Gambia’s Upper River Region. His birth came three days before the country gained independence from Britain, a coincidence that has often been used in official accounts to connect his life with the modern history of the Gambian state. A separate 2026 presidential archive gives 16 February, but the Office of the President’s published birthday account supports 15 February, the date used here. Barrow grew up far from the political centre of Banjul. The surviving biographical record describes a rural childhood followed by a move toward the capital for further schooling. He attended Koba Kunda Primary School, Crab Island Secondary School and Muslim High School. An Office of the President profile confirms his birthplace and 15 February 1965 birth date, although the page itself is an openly supportive commentary rather than an independent assessment of his presidency. His early life did not resemble the usual path of a future head of state. Barrow was not raised inside a famous political dynasty, did not begin as a senior civil servant and did not first become known through the military. His public identity was shaped by commerce. After school, he joined Alhagie Musa Njie & Sons, a Gambian business, and rose to become a sales manager. The experience introduced him to retail operations, customer relationships and the practical discipline of building a career without inherited national influence. Those beginnings later became central to his political image. In the 2016 campaign, supporters presented him as a calm, ordinary businessman capable of bringing divided opposition groups together. The contrast with Jammeh an army officer who had seized power in a 1994 coup—was one of the campaign’s clearest themes. London, Real-Estate Studies and Majum Real Estate Barrow moved to Europe in the early 2000s. He spent time in the United Kingdom, where he studied toward real-estate qualifications and worked while supporting himself. Contemporary international profiles reported that he worked as a security guard or supervisor at an Argos store in London. The detail became widely known after his election because it captured the distance between his earlier working life and the presidency. Continue Reading Full Article BIOGRAPHY Adama Barrow Biography: From Businessman to Gambia President By Truce Elikia Art & Culture Journalist Truce Elikia Home Comment Sep 9, 2026 Sep 9, 2026 23 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Adama Barrow is a Gambian politician, businessman and real-estate developer who has served as the third president of The Gambia since 19 January 2017. Born in Mankamang Kunda in 1965, he worked in commerce, studied real estate in the United Kingdom and founded Majum Real Estate before entering national politics. Barrow became the consensus candidate of an opposition coalition in 2016 and defeated Yahya Jammeh, ending 22 years of authoritarian rule. He won a second term in 2021 and is campaigning again in 2026, with his record now judged against unfinished democratic reforms, economic pressures and public demands for reliable electricity. Who is Adama Barrow? Adama Barrow is the president of The Gambia and leader of the National People’s Party. A former real-estate businessman, he won the historic 2016 election that removed Yahya Jammeh, survived the resulting constitutional crisis and was re-elected in 2021. He is 61 years old as of September 2026. Early Life in Mankamang Kunda Adama Barrow was born on 15 February 1965 in Mankamang Kunda, a village in the Jimara district of The Gambia’s Upper River Region. His birth came three days before the country gained independence from Britain, a coincidence that has often been used in official accounts to connect his life with the modern history of the Gambian state. A separate 2026 presidential archive gives 16 February, but the Office of the President’s published birthday account supports 15 February, the date used here. Barrow grew up far from the political centre of Banjul. The surviving biographical record describes a rural childhood followed by a move toward the capital for further schooling. He attended Koba Kunda Primary School, Crab Island Secondary School and Muslim High School. An Office of the President profile confirms his birthplace and 15 February 1965 birth date, although the page itself is an openly supportive commentary rather than an independent assessment of his presidency. His early life did not resemble the usual path of a future head of state. Barrow was not raised inside a famous political dynasty, did not begin as a senior civil servant and did not first become known through the military. His public identity was shaped by commerce. After school, he joined Alhagie Musa Njie & Sons, a Gambian business, and rose to become a sales manager. The experience introduced him to retail operations, customer relationships and the practical discipline of building a career without inherited national influence. Those beginnings later became central to his political image. In the 2016 campaign, supporters presented him as a calm, ordinary businessman capable of bringing divided opposition groups together. The contrast with Jammeh an army officer who had seized power in a 1994 coup—was one of the campaign’s clearest themes. London, Real-Estate Studies and Majum Real Estate Barrow moved to Europe in the early 2000s. He spent time in the United Kingdom, where he studied toward real-estate qualifications and worked while supporting himself. Contemporary international profiles reported that he worked as a security guard or supervisor at an Argos store in London. The detail became widely known after his election because it captured the distance between his earlier working life and the presidency. The London years should not be reduced to the novelty of a future president working in retail security. They formed part of a deliberate professional transition. Barrow was studying property while earning a living, then returned to The Gambia with a business plan. In 2006, he founded Majum Real Estate and became its chief executive. Majum placed him in a sector closely connected to land, housing, urban growth and the Gambian diaspora. Property businesses in The Gambia often serve citizens abroad who want to build homes or invest at home, so the work required trust across borders as well as knowledge of local transactions. Barrow ran the company until politics became his full-time occupation in 2016. His commercial record did not make him nationally famous before that campaign. It did, however, give him managerial experience and an independent livelihood at a time when openly opposing Jammeh could carry significant personal risk. Barrow joined the United Democratic Party and eventually served as its treasurer, a role suited to a businessman whose political influence was initially organisational rather than theatrical. From UDP Treasurer to Coalition Candidate The political opening that changed Barrow’s life came during a severe crackdown on the opposition in 2016. UDP leader Ousainou Darboe and other senior party figures were imprisoned after protests over the death in custody of activist Solo Sandeng. With much of the recognised leadership unavailable, Barrow emerged as the UDP’s presidential candidate. His larger breakthrough came when opposition parties and civic groups formed Coalition 2016. On 30 October, the alliance chose Barrow as its standard-bearer. He resigned from the UDP days later so that he could contest as an independent candidate backed by the coalition rather than as the nominee of one party. That arrangement was both his greatest political strength and the source of later conflict. Barrow was chosen because the opposition needed a unifying figure against a deeply entrenched president. The coalition brought together groups with different histories, ideologies and ambitions. Its central agreement was regime change, not a permanent shared programme. During the campaign, Barrow promised democratic reform, an independent judiciary, greater freedom for the media and civil society, security-sector change and renewed engagement with international institutions. He also supported the coalition plan for a transitional presidency lasting three years. The promise would later become one of the most consequential disputes of his first term. The 2016 Election That Ended Jammeh’s Rule Gambians voted on 1 December 2016 using the country’s distinctive marble-and-drum electoral system. The result was historic. The Independent Electoral Commission’s final record shows Barrow with 227,708 votes, or about 43 percent. Jammeh received 208,487, while Mama Kandeh received 89,768. Turnout was about 59 percent. Jammeh initially conceded, creating the expectation of The Gambia’s first transfer of presidential power through the ballot box. He reversed himself days later and challenged the result, setting off a constitutional crisis. Regional leaders insisted that the declared outcome had to stand. Barrow left for Senegal amid security concerns while negotiations continued. On 19 January 2017, the day Jammeh’s term expired, Barrow took the oath at the Gambian embassy in Dakar. Al Jazeera’s contemporaneous account recorded the extraordinary inauguration while Jammeh still refused to leave office. ECOWAS forces entered The Gambia to support the constitutional transfer, although diplomacy remained central to resolving the standoff. Jammeh departed for exile in Equatorial Guinea on 21 January. Barrow returned home on 26 January to crowds, military officials and members of the coalition government. A later inauguration ceremony took place on Gambian soil in February. The transition made Barrow internationally significant before he had governed for a day. He had become the civilian face of an electoral revolt against a ruler who had controlled the country for more than two decades. In an early TIME interview , Barrow presented the change as a return to equal citizenship, responsible government and national unity. ADVERTISEMENT The victory remains the defining achievement of his political life. It also created expectations that no subsequent administration could easily satisfy. Barrow was judged not only on roads, electricity, jobs and public services but on whether he would build institutions strong enough to prevent another presidency from accumulating Jammeh-like power. Opening The Gambia After 22 Years of Authoritarian Rule Barrow’s first years brought an unmistakable expansion of political and civic space. Exiled Gambians returned. Political detainees were released. Opposition activity, private broadcasting and public criticism became more visible than they had been under Jammeh. The government established or supported institutions intended to investigate abuses and rebuild public trust. The Gambia also reversed parts of Jammeh’s diplomatic isolation. It halted withdrawal from the International Criminal Court and rejoined the Commonwealth on 8 February 2018 after almost five years outside the organisation. The Commonwealth’s account of the return says all existing member states backed the application. One of Barrow’s most important promises was a truth process. The Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission began work in 2018 and heard testimony about killings, torture, enforced disappearances, sexual violence and other abuses committed during the Jammeh era. Its public hearings transformed national understanding of how the former system had operated. The commission submitted its final report in 2021 and recommended prosecutions, reparations and institutional reforms. Implementation has been slower than many victims and campaigners wanted, but the process did advance. In December 2024, ECOWAS approved a Special Tribunal for The Gambia to prosecute serious crimes from the former regime. The Point’s report on the decision explains that the tribunal’s jurisdiction covers gross human-rights violations committed between July 1994 and January 2017. Barrow’s record on democratic opening is therefore substantial but incomplete. The country is freer than it was under Jammeh, yet the transition has not produced all the constitutional and accountability safeguards promised in 2016. The Three-Year Promise and the Break With Coalition 2016 The first major rupture came over the length of Barrow’s stay in office. Coalition 2016 had presented its administration as a three-year transition. By 2019, Barrow argued that the constitution gave him a five-year mandate and refused calls to resign after three years. His legal position and his political promise were not the same issue. The 1997 Constitution provided a five-year presidential term, so remaining in office did not by itself violate that term. But critics argued that he had broken the compact that made him the coalition candidate. The Three Years Jotna movement organised demonstrations demanding that he step down. The dispute changed Gambian politics. Former allies became opponents, and Barrow’s relationship with the UDP deteriorated. On 31 December 2019, the Independent Electoral Commission registered the National People’s Party, with Barrow as its leader. The new party gave him a political organisation that answered to his own programme rather than to the coalition that had brought him to power. The formation of the NPP also revealed Barrow’s evolution from compromise candidate to incumbent party leader. He built alliances with politicians from different camps, including figures associated with the former ruling APRC. Supporters called the approach pragmatic and unifying. Critics saw it as a retreat from the clean break with Jammeh-era politics that voters had expected. The argument over the three-year promise remains essential to understanding Barrow. It was the moment when his presidency stopped being viewed simply as the democratic alternative to Jammeh and began to be judged as a power structure of its own. Re-election in 2021 Barrow entered the 2021 election as the candidate of the NPP, no longer an independent unity figure. His principal opponent was Ousainou Darboe, the veteran UDP leader whose imprisonment had helped create the circumstances for Barrow’s rise five years earlier. The Independent Electoral Commission’s 2021 results gave Barrow 457,519 votes, or 53.23 percent. Darboe received 238,253, or 27.72 percent. Turnout exceeded 89 percent, demonstrating both the competitiveness of the election and the intensity of public engagement. Opposition candidates disputed aspects of the process, but the official result stood. The victory gave Barrow a clear popular mandate for a second five-year term. It also weakened the argument that his authority still depended mainly on the 2016 coalition. By 2021, he had won nationally under his own party label. His second term shifted the central political question. The issue was no longer whether The Gambia would move away from Jammeh’s personal rule. It was whether Barrow’s government could convert political stability into durable institutions, stronger public services and economic opportunity. Constitutional Reform: The Largest Unfinished Promise Constitutional reform has been one of the clearest tests of the post-Jammeh transition. A Constitutional Review Commission conducted consultations and produced a draft intended to replace the 1997 Constitution. The proposed charter addressed presidential term limits, executive power and the architecture of public institutions. The first draft failed in the National Assembly in 2020. A later version also encountered strong criticism and parliamentary rejection. The World Bank’s country overview identifies the repeated failure to replace the 1997 Constitution as a major feature of The Gambia’s political transition and notes that the next presidential election is scheduled for December 2026. The term-limit debate is especially sensitive because of Barrow’s original campaign promises and his decision to remain beyond three years. Critics want a constitutional settlement that prevents indefinite presidential tenure and limits executive control over appointments. Government supporters argue that a new constitution must command broad national and parliamentary support rather than merely reproduce the preferences of one political bloc. Whatever the explanation, the outcome is plain: nearly a decade after the 2016 election, The Gambia still operates under the constitution inherited from the Jammeh era. That does not erase other reforms, but it leaves the most important structural promise unfinished. ADVERTISEMENT Economy, Infrastructure and the Development Record Barrow has placed roads, electricity, agriculture, health, education and international investment at the centre of his development message. His administration’s supporters point to major road programmes, new connections to regional power infrastructure, tourism recovery and increased engagement with lenders and development partners. The national economy has shown periods of solid growth. According to the World Bank, growth reached 5.3 percent in 2024, supported by industry and services, especially tourism and construction. The same assessment recorded a decline in extreme poverty to 20.7 percent in 2024 and projected further growth, while warning that public debt remained high and The Gambia continued to face a high risk of debt distress. Those figures explain both the government’s confidence and public frustration. National growth does not automatically create reliable services or affordable living conditions. Many households remain exposed to food prices, unemployment, irregular income and weak infrastructure. Remittances and tourism are important, but they also leave the country vulnerable to international shocks. Electricity has become the sharpest example of the gap between access and reliability. Barrow’s government says national access rose dramatically during his presidency, supported by domestic and regional projects. Yet repeated outages have affected homes, businesses and public confidence. XTRAfrica’s report on the September 2026 blackout protests covers the unrest and the president’s response without turning disputed casualty or arrest claims into fact. In his 8 September 2026 address , Barrow acknowledged failures in planning, generation and maintenance. He said an additional 24-megawatt unit at Brikama Power Station would be commissioned by the end of October and that a contract had been awarded for a separate 50-megawatt solar plant in Soma. He also created a presidential task force expected to issue public updates every two weeks. The commitments now provide measurable tests. Electricity supply should improve by the stated deadline; the Brikama unit and Soma project should be judged separately; and rising access rates should not be confused with uninterrupted power. For voters, these distinctions are more important than broad claims of success or failure. Agriculture remains another development priority in a country where rural livelihoods are vulnerable to poor weather and limited value-chain infrastructure. XTRAfrica has also reported on the African Development Bank’s support for Gambian agriculture , part of the wider effort to improve food production, resilience and rural incomes. Human Rights, Media Freedom and Governance Criticism Any fair assessment of Barrow must compare his government with the Jammeh era without allowing that comparison to become a permanent exemption from criticism. The political environment improved markedly after 2017. Independent media expanded, opposition parties operated openly and citizens exercised freedoms that had been severely restricted. At the same time, journalists and civil-society groups have continued to report pressure, arrests and legal threats. Freedom House’s 2026 assessment classifies The Gambia as “Partly Free.” It credits improvements after Jammeh while citing corruption concerns, pressure on media and civic actors, weaknesses in transparency and shortcomings in the rule of law. The debate over female genital mutilation also tested Barrow’s leadership and the independence of public institutions. In 2024, legislators rejected a bill that would have repealed the country’s ban on FGM. XTRAfrica followed the national debate over the proposed repeal , a dispute involving religious arguments, women’s rights, criminal law and party politics. Barrow’s supporters say his tolerance of criticism, competitive elections and transitional-justice initiatives distinguish his rule fundamentally from Jammeh’s. Critics answer that a post-dictatorship government should be measured against constitutional democracy, not only against the abuses of its predecessor. Both points matter. The opening after 2017 was real. So are the concerns about stalled reform, corruption safeguards, executive influence and restrictions affecting some journalists and protesters. Barrow’s long-term legacy will depend on whether democratic space becomes institutional practice rather than a favour associated with one leader. Adama Barrow’s Political Style Barrow’s public manner has often been described as calm and understated. That style helped him become the 2016 coalition candidate: he was less polarising than several veteran opposition leaders and could serve as a common platform for groups that did not fully trust one another. In office, calmness has coexisted with political adaptability. Barrow survived the collapse of the original coalition, built the NPP, won re-election and formed alliances across old dividing lines. His rise demonstrates a strong instinct for organisation and coalition management, even if he is not generally known as an ideological theorist or charismatic orator. His governing language emphasises peace, stability, national unity and visible development. Critics sometimes interpret those themes as arguments for continuity and caution when more aggressive reform is required. Supporters see them as appropriate for a small country that emerged from an authoritarian crisis without descending into wider violence. Barrow’s business background also shapes his image. He tends to present development as a sequence of practical projects roads, power plants, water systems, schools and investment rather than as an abstract political programme. The success of that approach depends on delivery, maintenance and public accountability. A commissioned project creates value only if citizens can use it reliably. Wife, Family and Children Adama Barrow is Muslim and is publicly reported to have two wives: Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow and Sarjo Mballow-Barrow. The Office of the President identifies Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow as First Lady. She has appeared in official programmes involving health, women, children and education. Barrow’s family entered the international news during the 2017 transition for a tragic reason. His eight-year-old son, Habibou Barrow, died in January 2017 after being bitten by dogs while Barrow was in Senegal amid the constitutional crisis. An AFP report carried by Business Standard described Habibou as one of Barrow’s five children. The family has otherwise kept much of the children’s private lives outside official politics. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Justice & Crime Sanna Manjang Faces Gambia Court Martial for Desertion . Biography Adama Barrow Biography: From Businessman to Gambia President . Protests and Movements Gambia Blackout Protests Push Barrow to Promise Power Boost . Travel Guide The 8 Top Attractions in Kunta Kinteh Island & New Jetty Right Now . The 10 Best Attractions in Gambia Right Now . ADVERTISEMENT This biography does not list the names or personal details of Barrow’s living children. Their existence is relevant to a public biography, but they do not hold elected office and their privacy should be respected. The 2026 Election and the Question of a Third Term Barrow is seeking another term in the presidential election scheduled for 5 December 2026. His campaign platform presents him as the candidate of peace, unity and continued development. The contest will determine whether Gambians still view stability and infrastructure as sufficient grounds for extending his presidency. The election also returns the country to the unresolved issue of term limits. Because a replacement constitution has not been adopted, Barrow’s candidacy is taking place under the existing constitutional framework. Opponents connect his third campaign to the abandoned three-year promise and the failure to complete constitutional reform. His supporters emphasise that he won both previous elections and has the same right as other qualified candidates to seek support under the law in force. The September electricity crisis gives the campaign an immediate public-service test. Barrow’s response is no longer only a political message: it includes deadlines, additional generating capacity and a reporting mechanism. Voters will be able to compare those promises with daily experience before election day. Adama Barrow’s Legacy So Far Adama Barrow’s place in Gambian history is already secure because of 2016. He was the candidate around whom a divided opposition united, and his victory ended one of West Africa’s longest authoritarian presidencies. The transfer also showed the importance of regional institutions: ECOWAS defended the declared result and helped prevent Jammeh’s refusal from becoming permanent. Barrow’s government reopened political space, restored international relationships and created mechanisms to document abuses from the previous era. The truth commission and the ECOWAS-backed tribunal are major parts of that record. His administration has also overseen economic growth, infrastructure investment and a significant expansion of electricity access. The unresolved side of the legacy is equally important. The new constitution has repeatedly failed. The three-year coalition promise was abandoned. Corruption and transparency remain concerns. Journalists, protesters and civil-society organisations still report pressure. Power shortages in 2026 have shown that expanded access means little when generation and maintenance cannot deliver reliable service. Barrow therefore cannot be understood simply as the man who defeated Jammeh or as another incumbent seeking to stay in power. He is both the symbol of The Gambia’s democratic opening and the leader responsible for the transition’s unfinished work. The 2026 election will be a verdict not only on his latest campaign but on whether Gambians believe he remains the safest custodian of the change they voted for ten years earlier. Adama Barrow Timeline Year Event Significance 1965 Born in Mankamang Kunda on 15 February Entered the world three days before Gambian independence Early 2000s Moved to the United Kingdom and studied real estate Built professional experience while working to support himself 2006 Founded Majum Real Estate Established the business career that preceded national politics 2016 Became UDP candidate and then Coalition 2016 standard-bearer United opposition parties behind one presidential challenger 2016 Won the 1 December presidential election Defeated Yahya Jammeh after 22 years of rule 2017 Sworn in at the Gambian embassy in Dakar on 19 January Assumed office during Jammeh’s refusal to leave power 2017 Returned to The Gambia after Jammeh went into exile Completed the country’s first democratic presidential transition 2018 The Gambia rejoined the Commonwealth Marked renewed international engagement after the Jammeh era 2018 Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission began work Opened a national record of abuses under the former government 2019 Refused calls to honour the coalition’s three-year transition pledge Triggered a lasting break with former allies and public protests 2019 National People’s Party was registered on 31 December Gave Barrow his own political organisation 2021 Won re-election with 53.23 percent Secured a second term under the NPP banner 2024 ECOWAS approved a Special Tribunal for The Gambia Advanced the prosecution track recommended after the truth commission 2025 Another constitutional-reform effort failed in parliament Left the 1997 Constitution in force before the 2026 election 2026 Launched campaign for the 5 December presidential election Sought a further term amid a renewed term-limit debate 2026 Addressed nationwide anger over prolonged power cuts Promised improvement by late October and a 24 MW Brikama unit Frequently Asked Questions Who is Adama Barrow? Adama Barrow is a Gambian politician, real-estate developer and the third president of The Gambia. He became president after defeating Yahya Jammeh in the December 2016 election and took office on 19 January 2017. How old is Adama Barrow? Barrow was born on 15 February 1965. He is 61 years old as of 9 September 2026. Where is Adama Barrow from? He was born in Mankamang Kunda in the Jimara district of The Gambia’s Upper River Region. He later studied in Banjul and lived in the United Kingdom before returning home. What did Adama Barrow do before politics? Barrow worked in sales, studied real estate in the United Kingdom and founded Majum Real Estate in 2006. He ran the company before becoming a full-time presidential candidate in 2016. Which political party does Adama Barrow belong to? He leads the National People’s Party. Barrow previously belonged to the United Democratic Party, then contested the 2016 election as an independent candidate supported by Coalition 2016. How did Adama Barrow become president? Opposition parties selected him as their unity candidate in 2016. He won 227,708 votes, defeating incumbent Yahya Jammeh. When Jammeh refused to leave office, ECOWAS backed the election result, and Barrow was sworn in at the Gambian embassy in Senegal. Did Adama Barrow promise to serve only three years? Yes. The 2016 coalition plan called for a three-year transition. Barrow later remained for the full five-year constitutional term, arguing that the constitution governed his mandate. The decision broke his alliance with former coalition partners and prompted protests. Who is Adama Barrow’s wife? Barrow is publicly reported to have two wives, Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow and Sarjo Mballow-Barrow. Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow is officially recognised as First Lady of The Gambia. How many children does Adama Barrow have? Reliable reporting identified Barrow as the father of five children. His eight-year-old son Habibou died in January 2017. Public sources therefore support four living children, whose private details are not included here. Is Adama Barrow running in the 2026 election? Yes. Barrow is campaigning in the presidential election scheduled for 5 December 2026. He is seeking another term under the National People’s Party banner. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Justice & Crime Sanna Manjang Faces Gambia Court Martial for Desertion The military case concerns an alleged 2017 desertion and is separate from his High Court proceedings. . Biography Adama Barrow Biography: From Businessman to Gambia President The life, elections, family and contested legacy of the businessman who ended Yahya Jammeh’s rule. . Protests and Movements Gambia Blackout Protests Push Barrow to Promise Power Boost The president says a 24 MW unit should be commissioned by late October after unrest over long outages. . 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After a woman was shot dead in Kasika, Karisimbi’s youth council calls for protection and rejects claims used to justify the killing. The youth council of Karisimbi commune has called for stronge r protection of civilians and property in Goma after a 54-year-old woman was shot dead at her home in the Kasika neighborhood, witnesses said. The killing, reported to have occurred around 4:00 a.m. on Sunday, January 25, has fueled renewed concern over insecurity in the area as first reported by ACTUALITE.CD . According to accounts cited by local witnesses, armed men wearing military-style fatigues allegedly broke into the home of Madame Chekasana Justine near the chapel of the 8th CEPAC Baraka and shot her at the scene. In its reaction, the Karisimbi youth council condemned what it described as repeated violent incidents and appealed for measures that ensure residents can live safely and retain their property without fear. Council rejects “justifications” circulated after the killing The council also disputed claims circulating about the victim’s identity and behavior, saying some individuals linked to AFC/M23 were attempting to justify the shooting by alleging “without foundation,” in the council’s words that the woman was a thief or a cannabis user. The council described those claims as false and warned against narratives that appear to excuse lethal violence. People also read: Rwanda Admits M23 Collaboration: A Scandal of State‑Sponsored Rebel Rwanda Is Not Protecting Us, It Is Exploiting Us.” Enock Sebineza Why the World Needs Congo for the Green Energy Future? A wider pattern of fear, residents say Continue Reading Full Article JUSTICE & CRIME Karisimbi youth council demands protection after Kasika killing By The Editorial Staff Public Services The Editorial Staff Home Comment Jan 26, 2026 May 15, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The youth council of Karisimbi commune has called for stronge r protection of civilians and property in Goma after a 54-year-old woman was shot dead at her home in the Kasika neighborhood, witnesses said. The killing, reported to have occurred around 4:00 a.m. on Sunday, January 25, has fueled renewed concern over insecurity in the area as first reported by ACTUALITE.CD . According to accounts cited by local witnesses, armed men wearing military-style fatigues allegedly broke into the home of Madame Chekasana Justine near the chapel of the 8th CEPAC Baraka and shot her at the scene. In its reaction, the Karisimbi youth council condemned what it described as repeated violent incidents and appealed for measures that ensure residents can live safely and retain their property without fear. ADVERTISEMENT Council rejects “justifications” circulated after the killing The council also disputed claims circulating about the victim’s identity and behavior, saying some individuals linked to AFC/M23 were attempting to justify the shooting by alleging “without foundation,” in the council’s words that the woman was a thief or a cannabis user. The council described those claims as false and warned against narratives that appear to excuse lethal violence. People also read: Rwanda Admits M23 Collaboration: A Scandal of State‑Sponsored Rebel Rwanda Is Not Protecting Us, It Is Exploiting Us.” Enock Sebineza Why the World Needs Congo for the Green Energy Future? ADVERTISEMENT A wider pattern of fear, residents say The council’s statement comes days after another killing in Goma . The article reports that, on Monday, January 19 , a young man was murdered in the Virunga neighborhood, with responsibility attributed to an element of the AFC/M23 rebellion. While details surrounding both incidents remain limited in the publicly available account, the council said the situation has left many young people feeling exposed to what it called “inhuman and degrading treatment” since AFC/M23 took control of Goma. It urged the armed group to stop what it described as “barbaric acts” and to respect human life. Karisimbi is one of Goma’s communes in North Kivu , a province that has faced persistent instability linked to the broader conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Entertainment Papa Wemba: The Enduring Voice of Congo and His Lasting Legacy . Sports Trends Yoane Wissa Enters DR Congo’s Top Five Scorers . Justice & Crime National Service in the DRC: From "Kuluna" to Builders . Celebrity Trends Visa Names Fally Ipupa as Visa Pay Ambassador in DRC . Economic Reports DRC Records 1.8 Million Paid Jobs as New Opportunities Expand . ADVERTISEMENT Source : ACTUALITE.CD . ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Entertainment Papa Wemba: The Enduring Voice of Congo and His Lasting Legacy From rumba and SAPE to La Dernière Symphonie, explore Papa Wemba's legacy ten years after his death. . Sports Trends Yoane Wissa Enters DR Congo’s Top Five Scorers Wissa’s 13th international goal sealed a 2-0 win over Equatorial Guinea in Kinshasa. . 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KIBATI, Democratic Republic of Congo, May 16 - In the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, families gathered near small coffins, mourning the children and others killed in a recent rocket attack. Amid their grief, many directed accusations at the rebels they believe launched the assault. Relatives, holding crosses with the names of the dead, voiced their anger towards Rwanda, the neighboring country they, their government, and the U.N. allege is supporting the M23 insurgents—a claim denied by Kigali. On May 3, at least five rockets struck camps sheltering displaced people around Goma, resulting in the deaths of mostly children and women. At a mass funeral in Kibati, 22 children were laid to rest in small caskets, alongside 13 other victims. "My daughter-in-law was murdered in the Mugunga camp," said Fikiri Mvano. "She was the victim of bombs dropped by Rwanda in support of the M23... She left us her children. She had nine, and three died with her." Rwanda has denied involvement in the attack, stating it is being used as a scapegoat and suggesting that militias loyal to Congo were responsible. Rwanda's government spokesman did not respond to a request for comment on Thursday. Both Congo and the United States have attributed the attacks to forces from Rwandan troops and M23. This ongoing conflict, the most intense M23 offensive since their 2012-2013 insurrection when they seized Goma, has displaced tens of thousands in a region plagued by unrest since Rwanda and Uganda's invasion nearly three decades ago. The M23, named after the March 23, 2009 accord that ended a previous Tutsi-led revolt in eastern Congo, claims that the Congolese government failed to integrate Congolese Tutsis into the army and government as promised. Recently, fighting has neared Goma, a city of around two million people and a critical humanitarian and logistical hub for the region. Residents feel increasingly trapped, expressed by Jules Buturanye, a spokesman for the victims' families who lost his sister in the attack. "If the enemy reaches us in Goma, we have nowhere to go except to drown in the lake or flee to Rwanda to join the enemy," he said. Continue Reading Full Article By Author Name Author Name Home Comment May 16, 2024 May 15, 2026 3 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Mourners weeping on the grave of succumbed victims by Rwanda's M23 KIBATI, Democratic Republic of Congo, May 16 - In the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, families gathered near small coffins, mourning the children and others killed in a recent rocket attack. Amid their grief, many directed accusations at the rebels they believe launched the assault. Relatives, holding crosses with the names of the dead, voiced their anger towards Rwanda, the neighboring country they, their government, and the U.N. allege is supporting the M23 insurgents—a claim denied by Kigali. ADVERTISEMENT On May 3, at least five rockets struck camps sheltering displaced people around Goma, resulting in the deaths of mostly children and women. At a mass funeral in Kibati, 22 children were laid to rest in small caskets, alongside 13 other victims. "My daughter-in-law was murdered in the Mugunga camp," said Fikiri Mvano. "She was the victim of bombs dropped by Rwanda in support of the M23... She left us her children. She had nine, and three died with her." Rwanda has denied involvement in the attack, stating it is being used as a scapegoat and suggesting that militias loyal to Congo were responsible. Rwanda's government spokesman did not respond to a request for comment on Thursday. ADVERTISEMENT Both Congo and the United States have attributed the attacks to forces from Rwandan troops and M23. This ongoing conflict, the most intense M23 offensive since their 2012-2013 insurrection when they seized Goma, has displaced tens of thousands in a region plagued by unrest since Rwanda and Uganda's invasion nearly three decades ago. The M23, named after the March 23, 2009 accord that ended a previous Tutsi-led revolt in eastern Congo, claims that the Congolese government failed to integrate Congolese Tutsis into the army and government as promised. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today ADVERTISEMENT Recently, fighting has neared Goma, a city of around two million people and a critical humanitarian and logistical hub for the region. Residents feel increasingly trapped, expressed by Jules Buturanye, a spokesman for the victims' families who lost his sister in the attack. "If the enemy reaches us in Goma, we have nowhere to go except to drown in the lake or flee to Rwanda to join the enemy," he said. ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Tags

Read Black Sherif’s biography: age, real name, Konongo roots, top songs, Iron Boy album, awards, family facts and 2026 releases. Black Sherif is a Ghanaian singer, rapper and songwriter whose urgent voice carries stories of pressure, faith and survival. Born Mohammed Ismail Sherif in Konongo-Zongo, he moved from “First Sermon” and “Second Sermon” to “Kwaku the Traveller,” then built two albums beyond one breakthrough. His official X profile carries the Blacko identity into a 2026 era led by “PopStar,” “SWAGGA” and “Find A Way.” Who is Black Sherif? Black Sherif is Ghanaian artist Mohammed Ismail Sherif, also called Blacko. Born in Konongo-Zongo on 9 January 2002, he became famous through the “Sermon” songs and “Kwaku the Traveller.” His music blends hip-hop, highlife, reggae, drill and Afropop around intensely personal writing. The “Sermons” and “Kwaku the Traveller” Breakthrough Black Sherif’s national arrival sounded like testimony. “First Sermon,” released in 2021, placed his cracked singing voice over a spare, insistent beat and made struggle feel immediate rather than decorative. “Second Sermon” widened the audience months later. Burna Boy heard the record, joined its remix and connected a young Ghanaian storyteller to listeners far beyond his home market. XTRAfrica’s Burna Boy songs page traces the catalogue of the Nigerian star who helped carry that second sermon outward. The decisive solo moment came on 30 March 2022. “Kwaku the Traveller” admits failure but refuses shame as a final destination. Its mix of apology, defiance and motion became a cross-border language. The UK’s Official Charts Company records a number-two peak and 13 weeks on the Official Afrobeats Chart. The records do not present a flawless hero. They present a traveller who falls, argues with himself and keeps walking. The nickname Blacko became attached to that character, while his physical performance makes the internal drama visible on stage. Konongo-Zongo Heritage and Ghanaian Identity Black Sherif was born in Konongo-Zongo in Ghana’s Ashanti Region. His community is central to his art, but location should not be used to invent an ethnic label for him. Reliable public interviews identify his Ghanaian nationality, Muslim upbringing and Konongo-Zongo roots; they do not provide a clear first-person ethnic identification. The soundscape was already plural. In a 2026 BET interview republished by NYDJ Live , he remembered Quran recitations, gospel music, folk songs and durbar performances sharing a compound-house environment. “Being where I’m from is what has written my DNA,” he said. Continue Reading Full Article AFRICAN CULTURE Black Sherif Biography: Age, Songs, Albums and Career By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Aug 14, 2026 Aug 14, 2026 12 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: Black Sherif is a Ghanaian singer, rapper and songwriter whose urgent voice carries stories of pressure, faith and survival. Born Mohammed Ismail Sherif in Konongo-Zongo, he moved from “First Sermon” and “Second Sermon” to “Kwaku the Traveller,” then built two albums beyond one breakthrough. His official X profile carries the Blacko identity into a 2026 era led by “PopStar,” “SWAGGA” and “Find A Way.” Who is Black Sherif? Black Sherif is Ghanaian artist Mohammed Ismail Sherif, also called Blacko. Born in Konongo-Zongo on 9 January 2002, he became famous through the “Sermon” songs and “Kwaku the Traveller.” His music blends hip-hop, highlife, reggae, drill and Afropop around intensely personal writing. The “Sermons” and “Kwaku the Traveller” Breakthrough Black Sherif’s national arrival sounded like testimony. “First Sermon,” released in 2021, placed his cracked singing voice over a spare, insistent beat and made struggle feel immediate rather than decorative. “Second Sermon” widened the audience months later. Burna Boy heard the record, joined its remix and connected a young Ghanaian storyteller to listeners far beyond his home market. XTRAfrica’s Burna Boy songs page traces the catalogue of the Nigerian star who helped carry that second sermon outward. The decisive solo moment came on 30 March 2022. “Kwaku the Traveller” admits failure but refuses shame as a final destination. Its mix of apology, defiance and motion became a cross-border language. The UK’s Official Charts Company records a number-two peak and 13 weeks on the Official Afrobeats Chart. The records do not present a flawless hero. They present a traveller who falls, argues with himself and keeps walking. The nickname Blacko became attached to that character, while his physical performance makes the internal drama visible on stage. Konongo-Zongo Heritage and Ghanaian Identity Black Sherif was born in Konongo-Zongo in Ghana’s Ashanti Region. His community is central to his art, but location should not be used to invent an ethnic label for him. Reliable public interviews identify his Ghanaian nationality, Muslim upbringing and Konongo-Zongo roots; they do not provide a clear first-person ethnic identification. The soundscape was already plural. In a 2026 BET interview republished by NYDJ Live , he remembered Quran recitations, gospel music, folk songs and durbar performances sharing a compound-house environment. “Being where I’m from is what has written my DNA,” he said. Twi and English move through his songs alongside Ghanaian street speech. Highlife supplies melodic memory; hip-hop and Asakaa supply attack; reggae offers spiritual weight. His official fan community, Blacko Tribe , confirms his birth date and birthplace while describing the path from Konongo-Zongo to an international stage. Formative Life: Poetry, Performance and the Freedom to Create Before recording was accessible, Mohammed danced at weddings and birthday parties, played football and wrote poems in notebooks. The BET account places the serious turn toward music in his second year of high school. He wanted not only to sing, but to understand instruments, performance and the structure of music itself. His childhood also contained separation. In a 2024 Guardian interview , he said his seamstress mother left to work in Greece when he was ten. He later described the absence of living with his parents for many years as one source of the emotional spaces heard in his work. Those direct statements support the family story; popular claims naming his parents do not meet the same evidentiary standard and are not repeated here. Education continued alongside the early career. By 2024, the Guardian described him as a University of Ghana psychology student, though his professional schedule limited classroom time. He also studied performances and music archives, learning how melody could carry autobiography. ADVERTISEMENT Black Sherif Career Timeline: Key Events Year Event Significance 2019 Begins releasing music professionally Starts the recorded journey before national attention. 2021 Releases “First Sermon” and “Second Sermon” Breaks through in Ghana; Burna Boy later joins the “Second Sermon” remix. 2022 Releases “Kwaku the Traveller” and The Villain I Never Was Converts viral momentum into a hit single and a complete debut album. 2023 Wins Ghana’s Artiste of the Year and BET Best International Flow Earns major recognition at home and abroad. 2025 Releases Iron Boy Expands his sound through a 15-track second album built around resilience and freedom. 2026 Wins five TGMAs and opens the “PopStar” chapter Confirms the album’s impact while pushing toward a broader entertainer identity. Voice, Writing and the Craft of “Drama in a Voice Pipe” Black Sherif’s instrument is instantly recognisable: part cry, part rasp, part melodic rap. He stretches syllables until they feel physically burdened, then snaps into a clipped verse. That contrast allows grief and bravado to occupy the same record. It also makes genre arguments less useful. “Second Sermon” may lean toward drill, “Oil in My Head” carries prayerful highlife warmth, and “So It Goes” with Fireboy DML opens into melodic Afropop, yet the narrator remains unmistakably Blacko. He calls the method “drama in a voice pipe.” Songs such as “Soja,” “45,” “Konongo Zongo,” “January 9th,” “Where Dem Boyz” and “Sacrifice” build scenes rather than merely describing moods. In a 2025 Wonderland interview , he reduced the Iron Boy feeling to “resilience, toughness and freedom.” His collaborations work because the core voice survives them. Burna Boy amplifies the sermon; Sarkodie gives him another Ghanaian rap frame on “Country Side”; Fireboy DML brings compositional softness to “So It Goes”; Seyi Vibez meets his street-rooted intensity on Iron Boy . Black Sherif adapts without becoming anonymous. Albums, Awards and Major Achievements The Villain I Never Was , released on 6 October 2022, gave the breakthrough a world. Across “The Homeless Song,” “Oil in My Head,” “Soja,” “45” and “Konongo Zongo,” it examines pressure, bereavement, ambition and sudden visibility, proving his voice could sustain a long-form project. Iron Boy followed on 3 April 2025. The 15-track album features Fireboy DML and Seyi Vibez and pays homage through its title to highlife elder Amakye Dede, who also comes from the Konongo area. Black Sherif told Wonderland that the second record built upward from the debut’s foundation. The result is still vulnerable, but victory, movement and self-belief occupy more space. Recognition followed the work. Ghana News Agency confirmed his 2023 BET Hip Hop Award for Best International Flow, making him the second Ghanaian winner of that category after Sarkodie. He also won the 2023 Vodafone Ghana Music Awards Artiste of the Year, with “Kwaku the Traveller” taking Most Popular Song and Best Hip-Hop Song. At the 27th Telecel Ghana Music Awards on 9 May 2026, he became Artiste of the Year for a second time. Metro TV’s winners report records four additional victories: Album of the Year for Iron Boy , Songwriter of the Year, Hip-Hop Song of the Year for “Where Dem Boyz” and Afropop Song of the Year for “Sacrifice.” Those five trophies show both breadth and album-level respect. Personal Life, Parents and Privacy Black Sherif’s writing is personal, but his public catalogue should not be mistaken for permission to manufacture private facts. He has spoken about his mother’s work as a seamstress, his parents’ influence and the long separation from living with them. He has not supplied a consistently verified public record for their names, so those names remain unconfirmed here. ADVERTISEMENT The same caution applies to romance. No spouse or partner has been reliably and publicly confirmed as of August 2026. His lyrics often stage intimate conversations, loss and longing, yet they do not prove a current relationship. His height is also absent from credible first-party and major-media profiles. The Guardian also reported his help with food and maternity bills and his honest conversations with younger people about struggle. That instinct aligns with songs that acknowledge hardship without abandoning the listener inside it. Cultural Impact: Making Vulnerability Sound Powerful Black Sherif helped shift the image of the young Ghanaian male star. His music can be aggressive without hiding fear, spiritual without becoming doctrinal and fashionable without separating clothing from character. Younger listeners hear regional speech and local references carried with the scale of international pop. His impact is also practical. In the 2026 BET conversation, he said children in his city now see possibilities in styling, songwriting and dance. He argues for Africa’s musical variety and wants his work to become a kind of literature people can return to for courage. The audience remains measurable without defining the art. A current Music Metrics Vault snapshot , checked on 13 August 2026, reported about 3.0 million Spotify monthly listeners and 813.9 million catalogue streams. The stronger cultural measure is how quickly a confession such as “Kwaku the Traveller” became communal speech. What Comes Next: The 2026 “PopStar” Era The 2026 chapter began with “PopStar,” a lighter, more theatrical record that Black Sherif described as fresh air in his catalogue. “SWAGGA,” produced by longtime collaborator Joker Nharnah, followed with the confidence of earned arrival. “Find A Way” returned to hope and home; XTRAfrica carries both the lyrics and meaning and the artist’s live songs archive . July and August added collaborations: “Amazing Grace” appeared with Davido on ORIADÉ , and “Cry” paired Black Sherif with Llona. The releases arrived after the Iron Boy tour cycle and TGMA sweep, suggesting expansion rather than a reset. XTRAfrica’s report on his Zaama Disco production shows his growing interest in choreography, lighting and complete stage presentation. No third studio album or confirmed release date had been announced by 13 August 2026. The responsible expectation is therefore artistic: the next project may test how far Black Sherif can widen the “PopStar” frame while keeping the Konongo storyteller at its centre. Black Sherif FAQs What is Black Sherif’s real name? His real name is Mohammed Ismail Sherif. He is also widely called Blacko. How old is Black Sherif? Black Sherif was born on 9 January 2002. He is 24 years old as of 13 August 2026. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Biography KiDi Biography: Real Name, Albums, Son and Career . African Culture Kofi Mole Biography: Real Name, Songs, Awards and Career . African Culture Ria Boss Biography: Real Name, Songs, Album and Career . African Culture Black Sherif Biography: Age, Songs, Albums and Career . Entertainment Shatta Wale Explains Burna Boy Friendship Fallout . ADVERTISEMENT Where is Black Sherif from? He is from Konongo-Zongo in Ghana’s Ashanti Region. The community’s mixed religious and musical soundscape strongly shaped his work. What is Black Sherif’s ethnicity? He has not provided a clear, reliable first-person ethnic identification in the sources reviewed. It is accurate to describe him as Ghanaian and from Konongo-Zongo, not to infer ethnicity from birthplace. Who are Black Sherif’s parents? He has spoken publicly about his seamstress mother, his father and years spent away from both parents. Their names are not consistently confirmed by strong first-party or major-media sources. How tall is Black Sherif? His height has not been reliably published by an official profile or major interview. Is Black Sherif married? No marriage or current partner was reliably confirmed in the public record reviewed as of August 2026. Which song made Black Sherif famous? “First Sermon” and “Second Sermon” created his 2021 breakthrough. “Kwaku the Traveller” became his defining international solo hit in 2022. What are Black Sherif’s biggest songs? His best-known songs include “First Sermon,” “Second Sermon,” “Kwaku the Traveller,” “Soja,” “45,” “Oil in My Head,” “Konongo Zongo,” “January 9th,” “Lord I’m Amazed,” “Sacrifice” and “Where Dem Boyz.” How many albums has Black Sherif released? He has released two studio albums: The Villain I Never Was in 2022 and Iron Boy in 2025. What awards has Black Sherif won? His major wins include the 2023 BET Hip Hop Award for Best International Flow and Ghana Music Awards Artiste of the Year in 2023 and 2026. He won five categories at the 2026 ceremony. What is Black Sherif’s latest song? As of 13 August 2026, his newest credited release was Llona’s “Cry” featuring Black Sherif. His latest solo single was “Find A Way.” ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography KiDi Biography: Real Name, Albums, Son and Career Meet Ghana’s KiDi: his age, family, breakthrough, awards and 2026 album . African Culture Kofi Mole Biography: Real Name, Songs, Awards and Career Discover Kofi Mole’s real name, Kumasi roots, university decision, hit songs, awards and 2026 music. . African Culture Ria Boss Biography: Real Name, Songs, Album and Career Explore Ria Boss’s Ghanaian-Burkinabé roots, 11-EP run, REMEMBER album and latest music. . African Culture Black Sherif Biography: Age, Songs, Albums and Career Explore Black Sherif’s age, real name, Konongo roots, songs, albums, awards and 2026 music. . Tags Ghanian Musics Ghanian Musics Ghana Ghana Black Sherif Black Sherif

DJAN denies banning Burna Boy songs after DJ Tunez clash, calls reports false and urges calm as investigations continue The Deejays Association of Nigeria (DJAN) has denied reports claiming it banned Burna Boy ’s songs following a reported altercation involving DJ Tunez, describing the claims as false and misleading. In a statement released on Thursday, DJAN President Prince Akim Edeh said the association had not imposed any restriction on the artist’s music and urged media platforms to avoid spreading unverified information. DJAN emphasized its commitment to professionalism within the entertainment industry, stating that it maintains a strict stance against violence and physical confrontations. The association added that it is closely monitoring ongoing investigations into the incident. The group also condemned the unauthorized use of its official logo in circulating reports, distancing itself from claims suggesting an industry-wide ban on Burna Boy’s songs. According to DJAN, DJ Tunez is not a registered member of the association, further clarifying its non-involvement in any disciplinary action linked to the situation. The controversy reportedly stems from an incident at Obi’s House in Lagos, where DJ Tunez was allegedly assaulted after playing songs by Wizkid instead of Burna Boy. DJAN reiterated its commitment to fostering collaboration between DJs and artists, urging the public to remain calm while authorities handle the matter. Source: The Sun Nigeria Continue Reading Full Article ENTERTAINMENT DJAN Denies Ban on Burna Boy Songs After DJ Tunez Clash By Witty Pascal Entertainment Editor Witty Pascal Home Comment Apr 9, 2026 May 15, 2026 2 min read Copy link Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp Published Updated: The Deejays Association of Nigeria (DJAN) has denied reports claiming it banned Burna Boy ’s songs following a reported altercation involving DJ Tunez, describing the claims as false and misleading. In a statement released on Thursday, DJAN President Prince Akim Edeh said the association had not imposed any restriction on the artist’s music and urged media platforms to avoid spreading unverified information. DJAN emphasized its commitment to professionalism within the entertainment industry, stating that it maintains a strict stance against violence and physical confrontations. The association added that it is closely monitoring ongoing investigations into the incident. ADVERTISEMENT The group also condemned the unauthorized use of its official logo in circulating reports, distancing itself from claims suggesting an industry-wide ban on Burna Boy’s songs. According to DJAN, DJ Tunez is not a registered member of the association, further clarifying its non-involvement in any disciplinary action linked to the situation. ADVERTISEMENT The controversy reportedly stems from an incident at Obi’s House in Lagos, where DJ Tunez was allegedly assaulted after playing songs by Wizkid instead of Burna Boy. DJAN reiterated its commitment to fostering collaboration between DJs and artists, urging the public to remain calm while authorities handle the matter. Trending Now Hyron Andrews Biography: His Rugby Career and Lions Tributes . Biography F1 Will Polish Kagame’s Authoritarian Image” — Kayikwamba Wagner . Justice & Crime Oluku Market Tanker Explosion: Death Toll Still Unconfirmed, 8 Injured . Accident News Fannie Masemola Reinstated as South Africa's Police Chief, Back Monday . Social Service Popular Today Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars . Entertainment FOLA Leads 2026 Headies Nominations Ahead of Toronto . ADVERTISEMENT Source: The Sun Nigeria ADVERTISEMENT Related Articles Biography Poco Lee Biography: Age, Real Name, Dance Career and Songs Inside the Nigerian dancer’s rise from Ojo street shows to Afrobeats stages, music and global fame. . Biography Eric Omondi Biography: Comedy, Activism and Public Life How Eric Omondi rose through Churchill Show and became a prominent Kenyan activist. . Biography Who Is Snit Habteab, Eritrea’s Miss World Trailblazer? The neuroscientist and educator became Eritrea’s first Miss World entrant and reached the Top 6 . Entertainment Poco Lee UK Case Sparks Consent Debate Among Nigerian Stars The dancer faces five sexual offence charges and returns to court on September 15. . Tags Entertainment Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigerian Entertainment Nigeria Nigeria