Author: WAJ Team

Tunisian coast guards successfully retrieved the bodies of five African women and a baby from the waters off the coastal town of Monastir, a tragic incident that highlights the ongoing risks faced by migrants attempting perilous sea crossings. Judge Farid Ben Jha confirmed the recovery of the bodies, stating that the operation took place late Wednesday. According to the judge, the deceased migrants were from sub-Saharan Africa, a region where many individuals, driven by conflict, poverty, or political instability, embark on dangerous journeys across the Mediterranean in search of safety or better opportunities in Europe. This incident adds to the…

Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Cissoko Embalo has announced that he will not seek re-election in the November elections. Embalo, who has held office since January 2020 after winning with 54% of the vote, will step down at the end of his current term. This announcement, made on Thursday, has the potential to create a power vacuum and increase political instability in Guinea-Bissau, a nation with a tumultuous history of coups and unrest. Embalo explained that his decision was influenced by his wife’s advice. He did not name a successor and explicitly ruled out prominent opposition figures from consideration. Embalo, a former…

Uganda is poised for a significant economic boost with the anticipated start of commercial oil production, projected to elevate the country’s economic growth to 10.8% in the 2025/2026 fiscal year, beginning in July. This growth forecast represents a notable increase from the earlier projection of 6.2%. The upcoming surge in economic growth is expected to be driven primarily by the new oil industry. The commencement of petroleum extraction is anticipated to bring considerable improvements to Uganda’s fiscal health and financial stability. The country, after nearly 20 years of delays, is finally on the brink of starting oil production and export…

In 1890, British-born South African colonialists established Harare, which today stands as the capital of Zimbabwe. Located in the northeastern part of the country, Harare’s origins reflect a significant shift from a colonial outpost to a major urban center. Establishment and Naming of Harare Harare was founded as part of the British South Africa Company’s broader strategy to extend British influence in Southern Africa. Under the leadership of figures such as Cecil Rhodes, the company selected this location for its strategic importance. The Pioneer Column halted its advance into Mashonaland here, marking the beginning of Harare’s history. The city was…

Millions of African children are facing a severe educational crisis due to the ongoing impacts of armed conflict and insecurity, which have led to the closure of over 14,300 schools across 24 countries on the continent. The situation is particularly dire in countries like Burkina Faso, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Cameroon, Chad, Nigeria, and Niger, where the number of closed schools is most significant. This crisis has left approximately 2.8 million children without access to education, severely affecting their future prospects and increasing their vulnerability to various risks. The closure of these schools not only disrupts the educational process…

Russia has recently honored the African Union (AU) with the inaugural Leo Tolstoy Peace Prize, a prestigious accolade named after the influential 19th-century Russian author known for his humanitarian work. This new prize, awarded by the Tolstoy International Peace Prize Foundation, recognizes the AU’s efforts in mitigating global threats such as nuclear war and preventing the outbreak of another world conflict. Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is currently facing charges from the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged war crimes in Ukraine, expressed his support for the AU through a message accompanying the award. He commended the AU’s initiative, highlighting…

The United States is expected to announce its support for adding two permanent seats for African nations on the United Nations Security Council, along with a rotating seat for small island developing states. This move is part of the U.S.’s strategy to strengthen relations with Africa, which has expressed dissatisfaction with Washington’s stance on the Gaza conflict, and to build deeper ties with Pacific Island nations in response to China’s growing influence in the region. The proposal is seen as a step toward advancing reforms within the Security Council, aligning with President Joe Biden’s vision of reshaping global governance. In…

A two-day pan-African AI conference, co-hosted by the United States, came to a close on Wednesday in Lagos, Nigeria’s financial hub. The event, which aimed to accelerate the development and deployment of artificial intelligence across the continent, attracted hundreds of delegates from various sectors, including government officials, technology leaders, academics, entrepreneurs, and policymakers. The focus was on fostering the creation of AI systems that are safe, secure, and tailored to address Africa’s unique needs and challenges. The conference served as a critical platform for discussions around how Africa can tap into AI to boost sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education,…

A new report reveals a dire situation in West Africa as eleven ECOWAS countries collectively seized more than 83,000 kilograms of various drugs and 31,000 tablets throughout 2023. This extensive haul highlights the region’s escalating drug crisis, with significant quantities of cannabis, medical opioids, heroin, and cocaine being intercepted. The report sheds light on the rising trend of drug use among minors, calling for an urgent and comprehensive approach to prevention. It stresses the need for widespread substance abuse education and intervention programs in schools to counteract this troubling development. Additionally, the document emphasizes the importance of creating specialized rehabilitation…

In Senegal, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye has taken steps to dissolve the National Assembly, a move critical for advancing his and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko’s agenda. This agenda emphasizes pan-Africanism and social justice but is currently hindered by the opposition’s control of the National Assembly. Faye’s decision follows a consultation with the Constitutional Council, which has affirmed his legal right to dissolve Parliament effective September 12. This confirmation sets the stage for significant political changes. On September 9, President Faye issued a note detailing the procedural requirements for the dissolution. He emphasized the importance of consulting both the prime minister…

The United States is planning to redeploy its military forces to other countries along the Atlantic coast in Africa following the recent withdrawal from Niger. A 10-person team, led by Maj. Gen. Kenneth Ekman, has been designated to oversee the strategic relocation of some of the 1,100 U.S. troops who were stationed in Niger before being expelled. As part of this realignment, the U.S. is investing $4 million to upgrade airports in Benin, aiming to enhance facilities to accommodate military helicopters. This investment is part of a broader strategy to bolster regional operations. In Côte d’Ivoire, a team of U.S.…

During the 10th BRICS Working Group on Astronomy meeting held in Kazan, Russia, from September 9-13, Takalani Nemaungani, Chief Director of Astronomy at South Africa’s Department of Science and Innovation, outlined his country’s prominent role as the secretariat in driving forward international cooperation and innovation in the field of astronomy. Nemaungani emphasized that while each BRICS member nation—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—has a rich history and significant achievements in astronomy, their collaborative efforts can amplify these successes. He highlighted that by working together, BRICS countries can push the boundaries of space science and exploration even further. A core…

AngloGold Ashanti, a prominent South African gold mining company, is set to acquire Centamin, a British gold miner, in a substantial $2.5 billion deal. This acquisition prominently features Centamin’s Sukari mine in Egypt, which stands out as North Africa’s largest and first modern gold mine. Under the terms of the agreement, Centamin’s total share capital is valued at approximately £1.9 billion, equivalent to $2.5 billion. This strategic move is expected to significantly enhance AngloGold Ashanti’s production capabilities. The addition of the Sukari mine is projected to increase the company’s annual gold output by around 450,000 ounces, pushing its total production…

The Paris 2024 Paralympics marked a pivotal moment for African para-sports, with the continent achieving a total of 64 medals, slightly surpassing the 63 medals won at Tokyo 2020. This increase, though modest, reflects a continued upward trend in performance. Of the 23 gold medals awarded to African athletes, eight different nations contributed to this total, and two other countries also secured medals. Para-athletics and para-powerlifting were the primary sources of success, with 43 and 11 medals respectively. However, the achievements were not limited to these two disciplines, as athletes from the continent also excelled in eight additional sports. Morocco…

In a recent ambush during a sandstorm in Mali, numerous Wagner mercenaries, including Russian veterans with extensive combat experience in Ukraine, Libya, and Syria, are feared dead. This information, gathered from interviews with relatives and social media analysis, highlights the significant risks faced by Russian mercenaries in the Sahel region. The confrontation near Tinzaouaten, close to the Algerian border, has raised concerns about Russia’s ability to manage its mercenary operations effectively. With the Russian defense ministry integrating many Wagner fighters into its forces, doubts have emerged about whether Russia can achieve better results than Western and U.N. troops who were…

Former Cameroonian Prime Minister Philemon Yang has officially taken on the presidency of the General Assembly, delivering a strong call for international cooperation to address critical global challenges, including climate change, poverty, and conflicts. Yang, who served as Cameroon’s prime minister from 2009 to 2019, outlined his vision for the year ahead during his inaugural address on Tuesday. Speaking to the 193-member assembly, Yang acknowledged the growing skepticism around nations’ ability to work together in these uncertain times but emphasized that collective efforts remain the most effective means of tackling the world’s most pressing issues. “Despite doubts, we must prove…

Vandalism to rail infrastructure is incurring a staggering cost of nearly R5 billion annually, highlighting a significant challenge for the country’s transportation sector. This ongoing issue directly impacts the efficiency and volume of freight transported by the national rail network. Transport Minister Barbara Creecy addressed these concerns during a recent briefing to the National Council of Provinces, where she outlined the pressing challenges faced in infrastructure development. She emphasized that the rail system should ideally handle between 220 and 250 million tons of freight each year to effectively support economic growth and job stability in key sectors such as mining.…

Joe Ajaero, a prominent labor union leader in Nigeria, was released by the secret police on Tuesday after being detained and interrogated for several hours. The detention took place on Monday at Abuja airport as Ajaero was preparing to travel to the United Kingdom for a labor conference. Ajaero’s arrest has sparked significant backlash from various quarters, with many viewing it as part of a broader campaign to stifle dissent against the Nigerian government. Known for his vocal criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, Ajaero was questioned by the Department of State Services (DSS) about alleged connections to British national…

The Democratic Alliance has expressed serious concerns that an education bill, which President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to sign into law within the week, could jeopardize the stability and future of the current unity government. This warning signifies the emergence of significant tension among the coalition partners. The Democratic Alliance, which had aligned with Ramaphosa’s African National Congress (ANC) and several smaller parties earlier this year, did so after the ANC lost its parliamentary majority. This coalition was formed despite substantial ideological differences among the parties, and the recent dispute over the education bill underscores the fragility of their political…

Rwanda is embarking on an ambitious plan to secure over $1.68 billion in investments to advance its agricultural and livestock sectors, focusing on avocados, chillies, and poultry. This strategic move was announced during the 2024 Africa Food Systems Forum, which concluded on September 6 in Kigali. The investment drive is a key element of the “Rwanda Legacy Program,” designed to create sustainable and profitable opportunities within the agricultural sector. The program aims to enhance food security, generate employment for youth and women, and build resilience in Rwanda’s agricultural practices. According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Resources (MINAGRI), the…

African central banks are increasingly investing in gold as a safeguard against economic and geopolitical uncertainties. This shift aims to diversify their financial assets and stabilize local currencies amid global volatility. Gold prices have surged from $1,900 per ounce in September 2023 to $2,500 a year later. Despite the high costs, experts anticipate a continued rise in demand for gold over the coming months due to its status as a safe-haven asset. Carlos Lopes, a professor at the Nelson Mandela School of Public Governance, explains that the move towards gold is driven by low returns on other investments and ongoing…

Rwanda is experiencing increased air pollution primarily driven by industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and inadequate waste management practices, including the burning of biomass. In the recent presentation of the 2021-2023 Air Quality Status report, the Minister of Environment underscored the growing urgency to tackle these sources of pollution. The report details how these pollutants are adversely affecting both public health and the environment. The Minister emphasized that as Rwanda strives for sustainable development, it is imperative to invest in and implement effective measures to improve air quality. This includes adopting cleaner technologies, enhancing waste management practices, and promoting policies that…

Floodwaters from an overflowing dam have inundated thousands of homes in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State in northeastern Nigeria, creating a severe humanitarian emergency. Officials are raising alarms that the disaster could intensify, as rescue operations struggle to keep pace with the rapidly worsening situation. Aerial footage and images provided by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) show entire neighborhoods submerged in water, with only rooftops visible in some areas. The floodwaters have left many residents stranded, with critical infrastructure, including roads and communication lines, severely impacted. Maiduguri, a city that has endured more than a decade of insurgent…

Niamey, the capital of Niger, has launched a major mosquito control campaign aimed at tackling the widespread issue of malaria. The campaign, which began on Monday at 7 p.m. local time, is a strategic effort to curb the transmission of malaria, a disease primarily spread by mosquitoes. The operation focuses on eliminating mosquito breeding sites, particularly in areas with stagnant water and unsanitary conditions. Municipal authorities have emphasized the importance of this initiative and are urging residents to take protective measures, such as covering their food and drinks during the control activities to ensure their safety. Malaria continues to be…

Engie Energy Access Rwanda, a subsidiary of the internationally recognized energy leader ENGIE, has introduced an advanced solar energy system designed to cater to substantial energy demands across various sectors. This new system, named “MySol Boss,” is tailored to provide reliable and sustainable power for commercial businesses, educational institutions, and residential properties with high energy requirements. The launch of MySol Boss took place during the Energy Week Conference and Exhibition 2024, an event hosted in Kigali and running for the next three days. This significant event, organized by the Rwanda Energy Private Developers (EPD), serves as a platform for showcasing…

Israel is reportedly urging the United States to exert pressure on South Africa to withdraw its legal actions against Israel at the UN International Court of Justice. These actions pertain to allegations of “genocide” in Gaza. According to a leaked cable from the Israeli Foreign Ministry, Israel is asking US legislators to threaten trade sanctions if South Africa does not abandon these cases. The cable, which was sent to the Israeli Embassy in Washington, urges US lawmakers, governors, and Jewish organizations to apply significant pressure on South Africa. It emphasizes that continued support for Hamas and the advancement of anti-Israeli…

Trade between China and Africa expanded by 2.7% to $192.44 billion from January to August 2024, according to China’s General Administration of Customs. This growth reflects a robust economic partnership between the two regions. Detailed figures show a 2.1% decrease in Chinese exports to Africa, totaling $112.97 billion. In contrast, imports from Africa to China increased by 10.4%, reaching $79.47 billion. This rise in imports highlights Africa’s growing importance as a trade partner for China. On September 5, during the 9th Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, Chinese President Xi Jinping reaffirmed China’s commitment to deepening its engagement with Africa. He emphasized…

During a recent bail hearing, the prosecution asserted that extortionists have effectively placed the entire country under their control. This claim was highlighted as the key argument in the case against five individuals accused of causing significant disruptions at a bridge construction site in KwaXimba, KwaZulu-Natal. The accused—Andile Jiyane, Elias Phetha, Nhlanhla Makhathini, Sibonelo Khanyile, and Thabani Nkomo—appeared before Camperdown magistrate’s court facing serious extortion charges. The defendants refute any connection to the so-called construction mafia. They argue that their actions were driven by concerns about the project’s employment practices, specifically questioning why the construction work was being done by…

A Kenyan court has halted the proposed 30-year lease of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to India’s Adani Group. This decision follows a legal challenge from the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC). The challenge argues that Kenya is capable of raising the $1.85 billion needed for the airport’s upgrade on its own. The plaintiffs argue that the lease could impose significant costs, result in job losses, and fail to deliver adequate value for taxpayers. LSK President Faith Odhiambo reported that the court has issued a stay order, which stops any actions related to…

NamPower, the leading electricity provider in Namibia, is set to embark on a groundbreaking project in partnership with two Chinese firms to construct the country’s largest solar power plant. This ambitious development will see the installation of a 100-megawatt solar facility, significantly increasing Namibia’s current energy capacity, which is approximately 500 megawatts. The new solar plant aims to address Namibia’s energy challenges by reducing its dependency on electricity imports from neighboring countries, particularly Zambia and South Africa. This shift is expected to stabilize electricity tariffs, making energy more affordable and reliable for Namibian consumers. In addition to providing economic benefits,…

Dickson Ndiema, the former partner of Ugandan marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei, has died from severe burns he sustained after a violent attack on her. Over a week ago, Ndiema ambushed Cheptegei as she was returning home from church in Kenya. He doused her with petrol and set her on fire, resulting in fatal burns that led to her death. The attack was reportedly sparked by a protracted dispute over a piece of land in north-west Kenya, where Cheptegei both lived and trained. The land conflict, which had been ongoing, is believed to have significantly contributed to the escalation of Ndiema’s…

On Tuesday, CAPMAS disclosed that Egypt’s annual urban consumer price inflation rate unexpectedly accelerated to 26.2 percent in August, surpassing the 25.7 percent recorded in July. This marked a significant shift in inflationary pressures. On a monthly basis, prices surged by 2.1 percent, a sharp increase compared to the 0.4 percent rise seen in July. Food prices experienced a notable jump of 1.8 percent in August, reversing the 0.3 percent decline observed in the previous month. Compared to the same period last year, food prices were up by 29.0 percent, reflecting substantial inflation in this sector. A survey of 19…

Agostinho Neto (1922–1979), a pivotal figure in Angola’s struggle for independence and a celebrated poet. Neto, born in Bengo Province, Angola, to a pastor and a professor, played a crucial role in shaping his country’s political and cultural landscape. Neto’s journey from medicine to politics was marked by his relentless dedication to Angola’s liberation. Educated at the University of Lisbon, where he trained as a physician, Neto shifted his focus to the liberation movement and became a prominent leader in the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA). His activism and leadership led to multiple imprisonments, but his resolve…

A significant breakthrough has been made in Rivers State, Nigeria, where a suspect involved in a child trafficking operation has been apprehended. Authorities are now actively investigating to identify and capture any additional individuals linked to the trafficking network. Local police successfully rescued 16 children and arrested a female suspect believed to be central to the trafficking ring. The children were discovered in an estate in the Ozuoba community, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, following an extensive intelligence operation triggered by a crucial tip-off. Police Superintendent Mrs. Iringe-Koko confirmed that the case has been transferred to the Commissioner of Police Monitoring…

On Monday, it was reported that 47 inmates had escaped from the Kakata prison, a high-security facility situated about 55 kilometers northeast of Monrovia, Liberia’s capital. The breakout, which occurred over the weekend, was made possible by a serious lapse in the prison’s security system. The specific details of how the inmates exploited this vulnerability are still being investigated. The Justice Ministry has expressed grave concern and is taking swift action to address the situation. In response, they have increased their efforts to recapture the escapees, collaborating closely with the national police and deploying additional resources. A nationwide alert has…

Guinea-Bissau’s police force successfully seized 2.63 tons of cocaine aboard an aircraft that had arrived from Venezuela, according to the judicial police. The drugs, packed into 78 bales, were discovered on a Gulfstream IV jet during a Saturday afternoon raid at Osvaldo Vieira International Airport in Bissau. The entire crew of five, including the pilot, was taken into custody. Among those arrested were two Mexican nationals, along with citizens from Colombia, Ecuador, and Brazil. All five are expected to be brought before a regional court on Monday for interrogation regarding their involvement in the smuggling operation. The raid, dubbed “Operation…

In South Africa, a 65-year-old man was arrested for allegedly aiding illegal miners by providing access to a mine shaft through a bedroom in his home. The incident occurred in the Nkandla informal settlement, near Khuseleka Shaft 1 in Rustenburg. Police reported that the man allowed miners to use his bedroom as a passageway to the mine shaft. A raid following a tip-off led to the discovery of the operation, during which several suspected miners fled through a hole in the floor. A 31-year-old individual was apprehended. Both men face charges related to illegal mining and possession of suspected stolen…

Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda, has identified several high-risk areas as it braces for heavy rains expected this month. Vice Mayor Martine Urujeni has urged residents living in these vulnerable zones to relocate before the rainy season begins to avoid potential disasters. The targeted areas include Gatsata, Jabana, Nduba, Kimisagara, Nyakabanda, Kigali, Mageragere, and regions close to wetlands. Urujeni emphasized the importance of moving to safer locations and assured that local authorities are prepared to assist with the relocation process. In the past year, Kigali has successfully relocated over 6,000 households from hazardous areas, particularly those situated on steep…

Reverend Michael Weeder, the former Dean of St George’s Cathedral in Cape Town, has paid a heartfelt tribute to James Matthews, a celebrated poet, writer, and freedom fighter, who passed away at the age of 95. Matthews, known for his fearless stance against apartheid, left a lasting impact on South African literature and activism during one of the country’s most turbulent periods.Reverend Michael Weeder, former Dean of St George’s Cathedral in Cape Town, has praised the late James Matthews, a distinguished struggle poet and writer, for carrying the torch of freedom during the bleakest times. Born in District Six, Cape…

At least six people lost their lives when a boat carrying migrants capsized off Senegal’s coast over the weekend, a spokesperson for the country’s armed forces reported on Monday. The vessel, a wooden fishing pirogue, was carrying approximately 100 migrants from the town of Mbour. The boat tragically overturned just 4 kilometers into the journey, as reported on Sunday by local sources. Despite rescue efforts, only four people were saved, leaving many others still unaccounted for. The spokesperson for the armed forces mentioned that the navy quickly deployed a plane and two boats to intensify the search for survivors and…

On Saturday, Guinea launched a comprehensive nationwide polio vaccination campaign in Kindia, focusing on approximately 2.5 million children under the age of five. This initiative will cover 21 health districts across the country, aiming to administer additional doses of the polio vaccine to prevent the disease, which is known for causing paralysis in young children. Health and Public Hygiene Minister Oumar Diouhe Bah highlighted that the campaign is a crucial step in combating polio and protecting vulnerable children. He also assured that health facilities are well-prepared with sufficient vaccine supplies to reach all children in high-risk areas, ensuring broad coverage…

Egypt’s former antiquities minister, Zahi Hawass, has launched a petition calling on Germany to return the famous bust of Queen Nefertiti, currently housed in Berlin’s Neues Museum. Hawass, a prominent advocate for the repatriation of Egyptian artifacts, aims to bring back one of Egypt’s most renowned historical treasures. The bust, believed to date back to 1345 BC, was discovered by a German archaeological team in 1912 during excavations in the ancient city of Amarna. It was transported to Europe the following year and has remained in Germany ever since. The artifact, made of painted limestone, is celebrated for its craftsmanship…

In a dramatic turn of events, southern Morocco has been ravaged by severe flooding, resulting in at least 11 confirmed deaths and leaving nine individuals missing. The unprecedented weather event has struck the provinces of Tata, Tiznit, and Errachidia, causing widespread destruction. Authorities report that 40 homes have collapsed, 93 roads have been severely damaged, and essential services, including electricity, water, and telecommunications, have been disrupted across several villages. The flooding was triggered by an exceptional weather phenomenon, characterized by intense rainfall driven by an unstable tropical air mass. The precipitation recorded over the past two days has matched the…

President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has been confirmed for a second term as Algeria’s president following the recent election, marking a significant moment five years after the country’s pro-democracy protests led to the ousting of his predecessor. According to the independent election authority, Tebboune achieved a commanding 94% of the vote, a decisive victory over his competitors. Islamist candidate Abdelali Hassani Cherif received just 3%, while socialist candidate Youcef Aouchiche garnered 2.1%. Despite the landslide victory, voter participation remained low, with fewer than six million out of 24 million eligible voters casting their ballots. This low turnout reflects ongoing public disinterest and…

At least 48 people were killed on Sunday in Niger State, Nigeria, when a fuel tanker exploded following a collision with another vehicle. The tragic incident occurred in the north-central region of the country, with multiple vehicles caught in the ensuing blaze, according to state disaster officials. Reports indicate that the fuel tanker collided with a truck transporting passengers and cattle, sparking a massive explosion. Several other vehicles were also involved, including a crane truck and a pickup van, both of which were engulfed in flames. Local authorities confirmed the death toll at 48, with emergency personnel working tirelessly to…

Jet fighters roared across the skies above Egypt, captivating audiences with daring aerial displays during the inaugural International Aviation and Space Exhibition in El Alamein. Running from September 3-5, this landmark event places Egypt on the global stage, showcasing cutting-edge advancements in aviation and space technology. Held at the newly constructed El Alamein International Airport, the exhibition features a vast array of aircraft, spacecraft, and defense systems, drawing widespread international attention. The runway is lined with the latest military aircraft and helicopters, offering visitors a close-up view of some of the most advanced technology in aviation. Among the notable exhibitors…

Algeria’s presidential election kicked off on Saturday, with polling stations across the country opening at 8 a.m. local time (0700 GMT). This early election, advanced from its original December date, was announced by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune in June. Over 23.4 million registered voters within Algeria are expected to participate, while more than 865,000 Algerians abroad had already begun voting prior to the domestic polling opening. The voting period is set to continue until 7 p.m. (1800 GMT), with an extension of up to one hour possible if deemed necessary by election officials. The race features incumbent President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, who…

UTM Offshore Ltd. has received official approval to proceed with Nigeria’s first floating liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility, marking a pivotal step in the country’s ambitions to boost its gas sector. The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority has issued the license for the construction of the facility, which is set to have an annual production capacity of 2.8 million metric tons of LNG. “This is a critical achievement that aligns with the government’s vision for expanding the gas sector,” remarked Farouk Ahmed, head of the regulatory agency, highlighting its importance in advancing Nigeria’s energy goals. Nigeria, as Africa’s…

The Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have unveiled a comprehensive response strategy to tackle the ongoing mpox outbreak across the continent. Announced on Friday, this extensive plan is set to commence this month and continue through February of the next year, with a projected budget of approximately $600 million. This collaborative initiative seeks to enhance and expedite the efforts of African nations in combating the virus. Its primary goals are to prevent further spread, provide critical support to affected regions, and ultimately save lives. The launch of this plan follows…

The creative sector is receiving heightened attention from both the United States and Africa, according to Lisa Walker, Managing Director of Africa Operations at Prosper Africa. Walker outlined that the U.S. initiative aims to enhance investment and trade relations with African countries, positioning Atlanta as a key hub for African creatives. The city is increasingly recognized for providing a vibrant platform where African storytellers, fashion designers, and musicians can collaborate and expand their influence. Prosper Africa is working to attract private investment by partnering with all 17 federal agencies and engaging unconventional investors, including institutional investors and high-net-worth individuals. The…

The Global African Hydrogen Summit officially kicked off in Windhoek on September 4, 2024, with over 1,000 delegates and exhibitors attending. Vice President H. E. Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah opened the summit, emphasizing its significance in advancing Namibia’s Green Industrialisation strategy. Namibia is set to leverage its vast renewable resources to produce green hydrogen, a crucial element in tackling climate change and driving industrial progress. The summit highlights Namibia’s commitment to sustainable development and its vision for leading the hydrogen economy. In her address, Dr. Nandi-Ndaitwah noted, “Our recently introduced Green Industrialisation Blueprint outlines that these sustainable industrial projects could generate…

Angola achieved a stunning 1-0 victory over Ghana in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier at Baba Yara Stadium on Thursday. Ghana controlled much of the game and created several scoring opportunities but was unable to capitalize. Antoine Semenyo missed an early chance, sending his shot wide. Mohammed Kudus came close in the 36th minute, but his powerful strike was saved by Angola’s goalkeeper, Neblu. In the second half, Neblu made another crucial save to deny Semenyo in the 58th minute. Jordan Ayew’s attempt was blocked by a defender with 13 minutes remaining, and Kudus’s effort in the 85th…

Ghana has unveiled a significant restructuring proposal for approximately $13 billion of its international bonds, offering bondholders the opportunity to exchange their existing securities for new instruments. This announcement comes more than two months after the country reached a preliminary agreement with two major bondholder groups. Investors have until September 30 to accept the offer, but those who agree by the earlier deadline of September 20 will benefit from a 1% consent fee, as detailed in the government’s recent communication. This restructuring initiative is part of Ghana’s broader effort to manage the economic challenges that led to its default on…

Severe flooding in Kano State has resulted in the tragic loss of at least 31 lives and the destruction of 5,280 homes across 21 local government areas. According to Isyaku Kubarachi, Executive Secretary of the Kano State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the catastrophic floods have affected 31,818 individuals and severely damaged 2,518 farmlands, which span 976 hectares. The floods were caused by an intense and prolonged period of heavy rainfall that overwhelmed the region’s infrastructure. Many of the impacted homes were constructed from mud and situated along flood-prone waterways. These structures, unable to withstand the powerful floodwaters, collapsed, leading to…

Zimbabwe’s Parliament Speaker Jacob Mudenda has underscored the critical need for climate change legislation and the integration of AI technologies to address the severe impacts of climate change. This call follows the recent El Niño event, which has led to the worst drought in four decades across Southern Africa, severely affecting Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Malawi. At the Indonesia-Africa Parliamentary Forum 2024, Mudenda emphasized the necessity of incorporating international climate agreements into national laws. He called for the adoption of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the Paris Agreement, and the Katowice Rule Book into domestic legislation. These…

On Thursday, September 5, senior security officials from Rwanda, Kenya, and Uganda convened in Kigali for a two-day Defense Cluster meeting under the Northern Corridor Integration Projects (NCIP) framework. This meeting aimed to review and enhance the progress of their collaborative defense initiatives and evaluate the overall status of inter-country cooperation. The primary focus of the discussions was the tripartite Defense Pact, which sets out a framework for cooperation in key areas such as conflict prevention, counter-terrorism, and genocide prevention. In addition, the pact addresses critical cross-border issues, including piracy, the control of illegal small arms, disaster response, and the…

On September 5, President Paul Kagame of Rwanda and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Beijing during the China-Africa Summit (FOCAC). Their conversation focused on deepening collaboration in key areas such as health, infrastructure, and technology. Village Urugwiro reported that the leaders also reiterated their shared dedication to a multipolar global governance system, emphasizing principles of sovereignty and self-determination. The summit also saw President Xi announce a major $50 billion support package for African nations, which will include a combination of loans and grants. This significant commitment aims to advance infrastructure, health, and technology projects across Africa, highlighting China’s ongoing…

The Ukrainian Association in South Africa has voiced strong objections following the docking of a Russian naval vessel at Cape Town harbor in late August. The event, which saw the Russian naval training ship Smolnyy stay for several days, has reignited concerns over South Africa’s neutrality in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. According to the association, the timing of the visit was particularly troubling. During the ship’s presence in Cape Town, Russian bombardments in Ukraine resulted in significant civilian casualties, including children. Dzvinka Kachur, speaking for the association, highlighted that the visit appeared to be more than just a routine stop, suggesting…

Uganda has successfully secured more than $600 million in financial support from the World Bank and the French Development Agency (AFD) to address critical infrastructure needs and enhance waste management systems in the capital city, Kampala. This financial package, confirmed on Thursday by both the Ugandan government and the World Bank, is seen as a significant step toward resolving long-standing issues that have plagued the city’s development. Kampala has been grappling with deteriorating road conditions and inefficient waste disposal, with residents increasingly voicing their concerns. Chronic underfunding from the central government has been blamed for the lack of progress. These…

On Thursday, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa rejected claims that Chinese investments are ensnaring Africa in a “debt trap,” asserting that these investments represent a mutually beneficial partnership. His comments came during the China-Africa summit in Beijing, which gathered representatives from over 50 African nations. Ramaphosa addressed concerns about China’s recent $51 billion funding pledge for Africa, dismissing the notion that such financial support is intended to create debt crises for African countries. He emphasized that these investments are designed to foster positive, reciprocal relationships between China and Africa. At the summit, China also pledged to significantly expand its infrastructure…

More than 70 opposition activists were acquitted on Wednesday after their arrests in June for allegedly plotting a peaceful demonstration during the Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit in Harare. The acquittal marks a significant development in the ongoing tension between the Zimbabwean government and human rights defenders. The activists, who were represented by Jeremiah Bamu of Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights, had been arrested at the home of Jameson Timba, acting leader of the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC). They were charged with attending a public gathering with the intent to incite public violence and disorder. The arrests…