Author: WAJ Team

Libya is preparing to launch its first oil exploration tender in over a decade as the country seeks to attract international oil companies back to its lucrative energy sector. The move is aimed at revitalizing the industry, which has been hindered by years of instability and disruptions since the 2011 civil war. Oil Minister Khalifa Abdul Sadeq announced that the government plans to offer both onshore and offshore oil blocks in a competitive bidding round, set to take place either at the end of this year or in early 2025. The targeted areas for exploration include the Sirte, Murzuq, and…

Comoros authorities have arrested a suspected people-smuggler in connection with a tragic incident that resulted in the deaths of at least 25 people after a migrant boat capsized last week. The incident took place on the night of October 30, during a perilous 70-kilometer journey from Anjouan, a Comorian island, to Mayotte, a French overseas territory in the Indian Ocean. Fahmy Husny El-nassib, the head of the Comorian coastguard, confirmed that the boat had encountered engine trouble, but the reason behind the deliberate capsizing of the vessel remains unclear. The authorities suspect that traffickers intentionally sank the boat as part…

In a significant move to address the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), C&D Pharma, an Indian pharmaceutical innovator, has launched three advanced therapies in the Ugandan market. The new treatments, unveiled at a symposium in Kampala, aim to improve access to affordable, effective solutions for conditions like hypertension, diabetes, kidney disease, and cardiovascular disease, which continue to strain Uganda’s healthcare system. The products introduced include Cliniplan Trio, Dairetin Family, and Daptide—innovative, fourth-generation therapies designed to tackle chronic diseases that are increasingly prevalent across the country. Cliniplan Trio is a combination therapy specifically for managing high blood pressure, while protecting…

As Donald Trump prepares to return to the White House, Liberia faces uncertainty regarding its future relationship with the United States. With indications that Trump’s second term may focus more on U.S. national interests than development aid, Liberia could experience significant changes in its diplomatic and economic interactions. This shift presents both risks and opportunities for the country. Key figures like Peter J. Pham, a former Trump advisor now influential in Liberia’s resource sector, and tech magnate Elon Musk, whose company Starlink recently secured a digital license in Liberia, could play crucial roles in navigating this new era of U.S.-Liberia…

In an unprecedented diplomatic breakthrough, Mauritius has successfully regained sovereignty over the Chagos archipelago, except for one highly strategic exception—Diego Garcia. This continuing British control raises significant questions about the interests of the UK and the U.S. in this region, and the broader implications for the Indian Ocean’s geopolitical landscape. After years of intense diplomatic negotiations and complex legal battles, the United Kingdom has conceded to return the Chagos archipelago to Mauritius. However, the agreement comes with a crucial stipulation: Diego Garcia will remain under British control for an additional 99 years. This arrangement highlights the intricate historical and strategic…

Rwanda aims to increase its disaster resilience from 46% to 60% by 2030, according to a new report released by the Ministry of Emergency Management (MINEMA) on Thursday. The report highlights that the country currently faces disaster-related losses between $200 million and $300 million annually. The announcement was made during Rwanda’s participation in the global observance of the International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction. The theme for this year’s event was “Understanding the Root Causes of Disaster Risks in Rwanda: From National Policies and Plans to Proactive Actions.” Philippe Habinshuti, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Emergency Management, emphasized the…

In a significant policy shift, Botswana’s newly elected President Duma Boko has announced plans to grant temporary work, and residence permits to undocumented Zimbabweans living in the country. Boko’s proposal aims to address the ongoing challenges surrounding undocumented migration while leveraging Zimbabwean labor to support Botswana’s economy. Ahead of his inauguration, Boko explained that many Zimbabweans in Botswana take up essential roles in domestic work and agriculture – sectors often shunned by local workers. His administration sees this legalization as both an economic solution and a step toward easing tensions between Batswana and Zimbabwean migrants, who currently make up the…

As Middle Eastern airlines continue to increase their operations across Africa, local carriers are facing mounting challenges to compete, raising concerns about the future dynamics of the continent’s aviation sector. While Africa represents 17% of the global population and holds immense economic potential, the region’s aviation industry remains hindered by complex regulatory and political hurdles. These barriers make it difficult for local carriers, especially smaller and more vulnerable airlines, to thrive against the might of established foreign airlines. Notably, Middle Eastern carriers such as Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways are capitalizing on their strategic geographic positioning and well-established transit hubs…

Ireland has confirmed its decision to intervene in South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), with plans to submit its own legal documents before the year’s end. This announcement follows a significant move by the Irish parliament, which passed a non-binding motion accusing Israel of perpetrating genocide in Gaza. The motion reflects Ireland’s growing condemnation of Israel’s military actions in the region. South Africa initiated the legal proceedings at the ICJ in December, alleging that Israel’s actions in Gaza contravene the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention, a claim that Israel has strongly rejected. The case…

Ghana’s parliament has been adjourned indefinitely for the second time in as many weeks following the absence of lawmakers from the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) during a crucial session on Thursday. The adjournment has raised concerns over the country’s ability to pass vital government business, including the approval of the national budget, as it nears a high-stakes presidential election in December. The absence of NPP members effectively stalled key government processes, including budgetary approvals necessary to ensure the timely payment of public sector workers before the elections. This delay in essential financial matters comes at a precarious time, with…

In a move that is set to reshape the country’s coffee industry, Uganda’s parliament has passed the National Coffee (Amendment) Bill 2024, which will lead to the dissolution of the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) and the transfer of its key functions to the Ministry of Agriculture. The bill was approved on Wednesday during a tense parliamentary session, which saw 12 lawmakers suspended for misconduct following a scuffle. Despite this disruption, the majority of MPs voted in favor of the bill, which will see the end of UCDA’s more than three-decade role in overseeing coffee production, quality control, pricing, export…

The United Nations International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) has partnered with the Government of Sierra Leone to launch an ambitious $105.5 million Livestock and Livelihoods Development Project (LLDP) aimed at addressing poverty and strengthening food security in the country’s rural communities. The eight-year initiative, which is expected to directly benefit 500,000 people, will focus on improving livestock farming in Sierra Leone, a sector that remains underdeveloped despite its significant potential. IFAD is contributing $30 million in grant funding, with additional support from the Islamic Development Bank and the OPEC Fund for International Development. The project is set to target…

The third edition of the Ghana Power and Energy Expo has officially kicked off, showcasing an expanded and advanced format designed to promote sustainable energy, drive innovation, and strengthen international partnerships. The event is set to bolster Ghana’s energy independence while supporting its broader economic diversification goals through strategic investments and collaborations within the energy sector. Indian High Commissioner to Ghana, H.E. Shri Manish Gupta, delivered a keynote highlighting India’s impressive achievements in renewable energy, citing an installed capacity of 200 gigawatts. Gupta emphasized that this milestone aligns with India’s commitment to the Paris Agreement and serves as a potential…

Zambia and India gathered in Lusaka on November 6 for the 6th session of their Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) of Cooperation, a high-level meeting aimed at deepening bilateral ties and advancing cooperation in key sectors such as trade, agriculture, health, and technology. The session was co-chaired by Zambia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, and India’s Minister of State for External Affairs, Hon. Kirti Vardhan Singh. The two leaders, who both underscored the longstanding relationship between their nations, discussed expanding collaboration in a range of areas critical to their mutual growth. In his opening remarks, Hon.…

Egypt and Angola have signed a significant agreement aimed at enhancing defense and military technology cooperation, marking a deeper commitment between the two countries in addressing regional security concerns. The agreement was formalized during a high-level meeting between Egyptian Minister of Defense and Military Production, Abdel Meguid Saqr, and Angolan Minister of National Defense, Joao Ernesto dos Santos, in Cairo. The signing ceremony, which took place at Egypt’s Ministry of Defense, was attended by several key military figures, including Egyptian Armed Forces Chief of Staff, Ahmed Khalifa, as well as senior commanders from both the Egyptian and Angolan armed forces.…

Logistics giant Grindrod has suspended its port and terminal operations in Mozambique after South Africa closed its main border with its northeastern neighbor due to safety concerns sparked by violent post-election protests. The suspension is expected to disrupt the movement of goods across the region, which is already struggling with logistical challenges due to underfunded state-run port and rail services. Human rights organizations have reported that at least 18 people have been killed in the ongoing protests, where opposition groups have accused Frelimo, the ruling party, of rigging the election results. Tensions escalated following claims of a fraudulent election victory,…

Morocco marked the 49th anniversary of the Green March, reflecting on the momentous event in 1975 that not only reclaimed the Moroccan Sahara but also strengthened the bond between the region’s inhabitants and the Kingdom. In a national address, His Majesty King Mohammed VI reaffirmed Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara, emphasizing the deep historical connection between the region and the Moroccan people. The King highlighted that, since the Green March, Morocco has solidified undeniable facts on the ground, creating a reality grounded in law, legitimacy, and responsibility. He stressed the unwavering attachment of the Saharan people to their Moroccan identity,…

A new and more transmissible variant of mpox, first identified in Congo, has sparked concern as the United Kingdom reports its first cluster of cases outside of Africa. British health officials have confirmed four cases, with the virus spreading within a household in London. The initial case involved a patient who had recently traveled to African countries where mpox outbreaks are ongoing. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported that three additional cases were confirmed this week, all from the same household as the first patient. The individuals are currently receiving treatment at a hospital in London. UKHSA Chief Medical…

November 7, 1987, marked a historic shift in Tunisia’s political landscape as long-time President Habib Bourguiba was peacefully removed from office, following concerns over his declining health. The bloodless coup was orchestrated by his newly appointed Prime Minister, Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, who quickly assumed leadership of the nation. The coup was justified by Article 57 of the Tunisian Constitution, which allows for the removal of the president on grounds of incapacity. Bourguiba, who had ruled Tunisia since its independence from France in 1956, was 84 years old at the time of his ousting. His advancing age and erratic…

In a groundbreaking step toward sustainable transport in Africa, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), UN-Habitat, and the World Health Organization (WHO) introduced the continent’s first Pan African Action Plan for Active Mobility (PAAPAM) at the World Urban Forum in Cairo. The initiative, developed with the support of the FIA Foundation, marks a milestone in addressing transport inequalities and advancing climate-friendly, accessible transit options. The Pan African Action Plan for Active Mobility offers Africa a unique opportunity to address transport inequality while promoting public health and reducing climate impacts. The action plan, which involved over 1,300 stakeholders across Africa, outlines…

Major oil traders Vitol, Trafigura, and BP have emerged as the primary buyers of fuel from Nigeria’s Dangote refinery, the continent’s largest crude processing facility, according to data from oil and gas analytics firm Precise Intelligence, based in Geneva. The Dangote refinery, which began producing fuel in January 2024 after years of delays, is ramping up operations, though it has not yet reached its maximum output capacity of 650,000 barrels per day (bpd). Once at full capacity, the refinery—owned by Aliko Dangote, one of Africa’s wealthiest individuals—is projected to satisfy Nigeria’s entire demand for refined petroleum products, with surplus production…

The World Health Organization (WHO) and partner health organizations have announced the allocation of 899,000 vaccine doses to nine African nations hit hardest by the ongoing mpox outbreak. This significant move aims to curb the spread of the viral disease, which has led to over 46,000 confirmed and suspected cases in Africa this year. The WHO declared mpox a global public health emergency for the second time in two years in August after a new variant, clade Ib, emerged in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and spread to neighboring countries. The decision to reclassify the disease underscores the growing…

Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, has passed away at the age of 56 after a battle with illness, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu confirmed on Wednesday. Lt. General Lagbaja died in Lagos on Tuesday night. A distinguished military leader, Lt. General Lagbaja was appointed to the role of Chief of Army Staff by President Tinubu in June 2023. Born on February 28, 1968, he began his career in the Nigerian Army in 1987, enrolling at the Nigerian Defence Academy. After completing his training, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in 1992 as part of the…

African mural art has flourished for millennia, captivating audiences with its seamless blend of ancient traditions and contemporary themes. Celebrated across the continent, this dynamic form of expression honors the diverse histories, identities, and stories of African communities. From prehistoric rock art to today’s bold urban murals, its evolution stands as a testament to the enduring cultural significance of Africa. Historical Roots: A Visual Legacy The roots of mural painting in Africa stretch back thousands of years. Ancient rock paintings, discovered in regions such as the Sahara Desert and South Africa, offer a window into the lifestyles and beliefs of…

Swiss textile machinery leader Rieter has unveiled a bold $5 billion initiative aimed at transforming Africa’s cotton processing and textile manufacturing sectors. The project, which targets the establishment of 500,000 metric tons of cotton transformation capacity over the next 3-5 years, is expected to generate up to half a million new jobs across the continent. The initiative, dubbed the Africa Textile Renaissance Plan, is a collaboration between Rieter, Arise IIP, a pan-African developer of industrial parks, and the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank). The partnership seeks to reduce Africa’s reliance on textile imports while expanding its export capacity to the United…

Mozambique is facing growing unrest following the disputed results of the October 9th presidential election, with protests erupting across the country and clashes between demonstrators and security forces. In a significant development, South Africa has temporarily closed its main border crossing with Mozambique at the Lebombo port of entry, citing safety concerns. This decision comes after reports of vehicles being set ablaze on the Mozambican side, escalating tensions along the border. Protesters have seized trucks on the N4 highway, halting traffic and creating widespread disruptions in a display of opposition to the election results. The protests were sparked by the…

The South African rand weakened against the U.S. dollar on Wednesday morning, reflecting a broader market shift as investor sentiment reacted to Donald Trump’s declaration of victory in the 2024 U.S. presidential election. The announcement triggered a surge in “Trump trades,” as global markets braced for the potential continuation of his economic policies. At 0851 GMT, the rand was trading at 17.5775 to the dollar, a drop of 1.1% from its previous close. Earlier in the session, the currency had weakened as much as 2.5% against the greenback, highlighting the volatility that followed Trump’s claim. This sharp decline follows a…

Egypt has joined Turkey and dozens of other countries in urging the United Nations to impose a suspension on arms supplies to Israel, citing concerns over the ongoing use of such weaponry in regional conflicts. The appeal comes as Israel continues to fight Hamas in the Gaza Strip and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. In a statement issued on Tuesday, Egypt’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its support for the call, aligning with international efforts to hold Israel accountable for its alleged violations of international law and humanitarian principles. The Egyptian government emphasized that the aim is to halt Israeli actions…

The Earthshot Prize has announced that it has successfully raised over £86 million to support innovative environmental solutions, with a particular emphasis on Africa. This milestone, a significant increase from £48 million since the launch of its matchmaking platform, Launchpad, was unveiled during the Earthshot+ event held in Cape Town, bringing together leaders from across industries to discuss scaling sustainable solutions. The Earthshot Prize’s Launchpad platform has now connected over 200 investors, corporations, and donors, accelerating the development of groundbreaking environmental projects. This includes notable funding for several African-focused initiatives. For example, Sea Forest, an Earthshot finalist, has partnered with…

Egypt’s Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Karim Badawi, revealed at the 40th edition of the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC) that the country’s natural gas export capacity stands at 12 million tons annually. This marks a key milestone for Egypt’s energy sector, positioning the country as a growing exporter in the Mediterranean region. In addition to its export capabilities, Badawi emphasized Egypt’s refining capacity of 40 million tons per year and its operation of over 10 petrochemical parks. These assets play a vital role in the country’s energy infrastructure, strengthening its ability to meet both domestic…

In Buffelsrivier, 530 kilometers (329 miles) north of Cape Town, soil scientists have uncovered ancient termite nests dating back as far as 34,000 years. This remarkable discovery highlights the long-standing ecological role of termites as “ecosystem engineers.” The findings reveal their impact on soil composition, biodiversity, and potential climate change mitigation, reshaping our understanding of these small but vital creatures’ environmental significance. Excavation and Discovery The team of soil scientists embarked on a journey to study the region’s saline groundwater when they made an unexpected discovery. Using a large Volvo excavator, they dug a 60-meter (197 feet) long and 3-meter…

Africa is grappling with a biodiversity crisis as COP16 fails to deliver sufficient action to protect its rich ecosystems. The recent conference in Cali, Colombia, yielded minimal advancements in safeguarding the continent’s natural resources, raising concerns among experts about the future of Africa’s diverse flora and fauna. With approximately one-third of the world’s biodiversity housed within its borders, Africa is recognized as one of the most biologically rich regions globally. However, alarming rates of habitat degradation pose significant threats to its ecological integrity. Analysts have expressed disappointment that COP16, held in late October, did not deliver the decisive action needed…

After years of exile due to the ongoing conflict in the Central African Republic (CAR), thousands of refugees are now returning home. Driven by peace efforts and improving conditions, these individuals are finding hope for a better future in their homeland. Although progress has been made in CAR through the Peace and Reconciliation Agreement and improved security in some areas, the country still faces significant challenges. Over 507,000 people remain internally displaced, and many others are refugees in neighboring countries. The ongoing impacts of decades of violence, compounded by floods and disease outbreaks, continue to affect vulnerable populations in displacement…

Zimbabwe’s Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube has reaffirmed the stability of the country’s gold-backed currency, the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG), despite recent sharp devaluation and soaring inflation. Speaking to The Africa Report at the InvestAfrica conference in Dubai, Ncube underscored the ZiG’s resilience, even as economic pressures fuel skepticism. Launched as a digital currency backed by gold, the ZiG was designed to tackle inflation and currency instability by offering Zimbabweans a secure store of value. However, a swift devaluation since its introduction has raised doubts over its sustainability. Many citizens, facing rising inflation, have shifted to foreign currencies like the U.S. dollar,…

In a dramatic revelation, Venancio Mondlane, the prominent opposition leader of Mozambique, stated in a video released Monday that he has escaped an attempted assassination while in South Africa, where he sought refuge following the contentious elections held last mont Mondlane has openly rejected the results of the October 9 elections, which the electoral authority awarded to the ruling Frelimo party candidate. The Frelimo party has maintained power in Mozambique since 1975, a period marked by civil unrest and economic hardship. Mondlane asserts that he is the rightful victor in the election. Despite Mondlane’s claims of seeking safety in Sandton…

The Border Management Authority (BMA) and the South African Revenue Services (SARS) are set to sign a landmark Joint Action Plan with the Kingdom of Eswatini on November 6, 2024, aimed at tackling pressing issues related to border management. Commissioner Dr. Michael Masiapato of the BMA will lead a delegation in critical talks with Eswatini officials to establish a unified vision for effective oversight and management of their shared border. The SARS delegation, headed by Customs Director Mr. Beyers Theron, is expected to play a vital role in these discussions. The upcoming Joint Action Plan seeks to bolster existing strategies…

In a significant move to bolster military cooperation, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan concluded a four-day visit to Algeria on November 4, focused on enhancing the growing partnership between India and Algeria in trade, education, technology, and defense. During his visit, General Chauhan and General of Army Said Chanegriha, the Chief of Staff of the Algerian People’s National Army, formalized a pivotal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on defense cooperation. This agreement, as reported by the Ministry of External Affairs, represents a major step forward in military collaboration and lays the foundation for extensive cooperation across various sectors. Commending…

The South African rand held steady in early trading on Tuesday, reflecting cautious sentiment among investors as the United States prepared for its presidential election. At 0602 GMT, the rand was trading at 17.51 against the U.S. dollar, slightly down from its previous close of 17.5025, following gains seen on Monday. Meanwhile, the dollar was approximately 0.04% weaker against a basket of currencies. Market analysts at ETM Analytics noted that the dollar-rand exchange rate appeared to stabilize around the 17.5000 level as investors awaited new developments to guide market direction. Voters in the U.S. were gearing up to make their…

Ivanhoe Mines, a prominent Canadian mining firm, has announced significant achievements at its Kamoa-Kakula Copper Complex in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). In October, the combined output from the Phase 1, 2, and 3 concentrators set a remarkable monthly record of 41,800 tonnes of copper concentrate, alongside a record milling rate of 1.2 million tonnes. As of October 31, total copper production for the year reached an impressive 345,042 tonnes. Notably, on October 12, the concentrators milled 50,253 tonnes of ore in a single day, yielding 1,720 tonnes of copper. This translates to an annualized milling rate of 16.9…

Rwanda’s health minister, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, has issued a warning to survivors of Marburg virus disease, stressing the need for continued vigilance and precautionary measures following their discharge from medical care. On November 4, Dr. Nsanzimana highlighted the virus’s potential to linger in the human body for extended periods, posing risks of transmission even after recovery. “The nature of the virus is complex,” Dr. Nsanzimana stated. “Small amounts may remain hidden in various parts of the body, which could lead to transmission.” The duration the Marburg virus can persist in a person’s system varies significantly among individuals and is still…

Cocoa farmers in Ghana, the world’s second-largest cocoa producer, are stockpiling beans in anticipation of higher prices, which could tighten supplies in the global market as it attempts to rebound from last season’s disappointing harvests. Industry sources revealed to Reuters that while the extent of this hoarding remains unclear, numerous farmers, buyers, and officials from the state regulator Cocobod have confirmed the trend, citing a slowdown in bean purchases as a result. An anonymous farmer from south-central Ghana stated, “I have more than 300 bags, but I won’t sell. I plan to hold off until after Christmas to see if…

The U.S. Embassy in Tunis has announced a substantial investment of 76.5 million Tunisian Dinars (approximately $24.85 million) aimed at revitalizing Tunisia’s date sector through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food for Progress (FFPr) Program. This five-year initiative seeks to significantly boost date production and reinforce traditional agricultural practices within oasis regions. The project will be spearheaded by Partners of the Americas, a U.S. non-profit organization renowned for its extensive experience in agricultural and food security initiatives globally. In partnership with Tunisian farmers, the Ministry of Agriculture, and local civil society, the program will focus on essential activities such as…

In a groundbreaking excavation, a collaborative team of Egyptian and American archaeologists has unearthed 11 sealed burials in a tomb near the South Asasif necropolis, situated next to the Temple of Hatshepsut on Luxor’s West Bank. The Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has reported that the findings include the skeletal remains of men, women, and children, indicating the site served as a family burial ground spanning multiple generations during the 12th and early 13th Dynasties. This discovery marks the first medieval cemetery of its kind to be found, containing numerous unopened graves alongside a variety of significant artifacts. The…

Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu has directed the immediate release of all minors detained during anti-government protests in August, along with the dropping of treason charges against them, as announced by Information Minister Mohammed Idris. During the protests, which were fueled by growing economic challenges, at least 76 individuals were charged with treason and incitement of a military coup, including 30 minors. According to Amnesty International, the demonstrations resulted in at least 22 fatalities amid clashes with security forces. The public outrage intensified following the minors’ court appearance last Friday, leading to widespread criticism of the government’s actions. “The President has…

The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom (FNF Africa) has announced that President Wavel Ramkalawan of Seychelles will be awarded the prestigious Africa Freedom Prize this year. This honor recognizes his exceptional commitment to advancing democracy and freedom, aligning closely with the Foundation’s core principles of liberty, democratic governance, and the rule of law throughout Africa. The award ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday, November 6, 2024, in Johannesburg, South Africa. The event, which is being co-hosted with the African Leadership Academy (ALA), will serve as a platform to celebrate liberalism and democratic values on the continent. A key focus of the…

President Umaro Sissoco Embalo has indefinitely suspended Guinea-Bissau’s legislative elections, which had been planned for November 24, adding further uncertainty to the West African nation’s political landscape. The decision, confirmed on Monday by a presidential spokesperson, reflects ongoing instability and logistical challenges. The November election was initially set after Embalo dissolved parliament in December 2023, attributing the decision to an alleged attempted coup involving armed clashes just days prior. Last week, signs of a potential delay emerged when Territorial Administration Minister Aristides Ocante da Silva cited logistical and funding issues that would hinder the election process. On November 1, he…

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) reported on Monday that a tragic boat sinking off the coast of the Comoros Islands resulted in the deaths of at least 24 people, including women, children, and infants, underscoring the dangers of migration routes in the region. The IOM indicated that traffickers intentionally capsized the vessel on Friday night while it was traveling between Anjouan and Mayotte. Survivors revealed that around 30 individuals from various nationalities were aboard the boat, including seven women and four minors, aged six and two, along with two infants. Five survivors were rescued by fishermen the following morning.…

As Americans prepare to cast their votes on November 5, the outcome of the U.S. presidential election is poised to have significant impacts on Africa. Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump are actively campaigning, but their potential presidencies offer contrasting visions for the continent’s future. A Kamala Harris presidency is expected to adopt a more empathetic and cooperative U.S. approach to Africa. Harris is likely to prioritize human rights, anti-corruption efforts, and women’s empowerment, focusing on inclusive and sustainable development that fosters African cultural and creative industries. Her administration could leverage the “Prosper Africa” initiative to promote…

Mmusi Maimane, leader of Build One South Africa (BOSA), warned that Zimbabwe’s Zanu PF party may be next to face decline after the Botswana Democratic Party’s loss to Duma Gideon Boko. This follows a regional trend of opposition gains amid unrest in Mozambique and criticism of Zanu PF’s governance. In a notable shift in Southern African politics, Maimane’s caution comes after Boko’s election marks a significant political change in Botswana, where the BDP had maintained power for 58 years. The electoral defeat is part of a broader trend in the region, as opposition parties gain ground. In South Africa, the…

In a strategic move to bolster his administration, President Bola Tinubu is set to officially welcome seven new ministers into his cabinet on November 4. This significant induction follows a recent cabinet reshuffle aimed at enhancing governance and addressing critical national issues. The new appointments, which cover key ministries such as Humanitarian Affairs, Labour, and Foreign Affairs, come after the Senate’s approval last week and signal the government’s commitment to tackling pressing challenges in Nigeria. The induction ceremony is set to take place in the Council Chamber of the State House in Abuja, as confirmed by Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special…

Chad’s interim President Mahamat Idriss Deby has threatened to withdraw from the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) due to its failure to effectively address rising insurgency threats in the Lake Chad region. This decision follows a deadly attack by Boko Haram militants, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 40 Chadian soldiers, raising urgent questions about the coalition’s effectiveness and the need for a unified response to ongoing violence in the area. In a critical move, Deby has signaled a potential withdrawal from the MNJTF, citing its ineffectiveness in tackling these threats. This announcement was made during a visit to…

The East African Community (EAC) regional force has commenced its withdrawal from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as of Sunday, following a decision by the Congolese government not to renew the force’s mandate due to its perceived ineffectiveness in addressing ongoing security issues. The EAC deployed troops to the DRC in November 2022 in response to the resurgence of the M23 rebel group, which had been invited by the DRC government to help reclaim territories controlled by the rebels. However, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi has been increasingly critical of the EAC force, stating that it failed to secure the…

In a collaborative effort to address declining electricity generation capacity at Kariba Dam, Zimbabwe and Zambia have launched feasibility studies for the installation of floating solar systems. This initiative, supported by the African Development Bank, aims to harness renewable energy solutions in response to the challenges posed by climate change and recurring droughts that have significantly impacted hydroelectric power production in the region. Zimbabwe and Zambia, through the Zambezi River Authority (ZRA), have embarked on feasibility studies to explore the installation of floating solar systems at Kariba Dam. This initiative responds to the declining electricity generation capacity at the dam’s…

The Nigerian government faces increasing scrutiny as calls intensify for the release of minors detained during recent protests against the rising cost of living. Human rights organizations and political leaders are demanding immediate action, citing serious felony charges against the young detainees and alarming reports of their treatment in custody. Amidst widespread public outrage, Amnesty International condemned the situation as a severe violation of rights, highlighting the broader implications of state repression in Nigeria. A total of 76 individuals, including 30 minors aged between 14 and 17, were arraigned on Friday in Abuja, facing ten felony counts, including treason, destruction…

As mpox cases in Congo show signs of stabilization, health officials warn that a more robust vaccination campaign is essential to combat the virus and prevent potential outbreaks. Recent reports indicate a decline in weekly lab-confirmed cases from nearly 400 in July to about 200 to 300 now, particularly in Kamituga, where the more infectious variant first emerged. However, only a fraction of suspected cases are being tested, and with ongoing transmission in several regions, experts emphasize the urgency of addressing the vaccine shortage in a country with a population of 110 million. Despite the encouraging trend, the U.N. health…

As the United Nations COP29 summit approaches in Azerbaijan, women in Senegal took to the streets of Dakar on Saturday, demanding climate justice. The march, attended by approximately 50 climate activists, focused on the urgent need to protect the country’s natural resources and advocate for a decarbonized future. A former tour guide expressed frustration at the lack of progress over the past four years of protests, stating, “They’re spending billions to hold their conferences, yet they owe us billions in compensation. It is these industrialized nations in their pursuit of development that have caused the greenhouse gas emissions.” Activists highlighted…

As Egypt faces persistent inflation and currency challenges, the IMF’s fourth review could unlock $1.2 billion in funding. The discussions will focus on economic resilience, sustainability initiatives, and state-owned enterprise reforms as part of Egypt’s ongoing recovery strategy. This review could pave the way for the release of over $1.2 billion in financing and represents the fourth assessment under Egypt’s current 46-month IMF loan program, which was initially approved in 2022 and expanded to $8 billion this year following an economic crisis characterized by high inflation and severe foreign currency shortages. Madbouly emphasized the productive collaboration with the IMF, expressing…

A lightning strike on a makeshift church in Uganda’s Palabek refugee camp has killed 14 and injured 34 others during a prayer service. The tragic incident highlights the frequent threat of lightning strikes in the region, particularly during the wet season. According to police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke, 34 others sustained injuries in the strike, though the identities of the deceased have not yet been released. The victims were attending a prayer service inside the temporary structure at the Palabek settlement camp, which primarily houses refugees from South Sudan, when the lightning struck. Fatal lightning strikes are a common occurrence in…

Set for November 9-10, the inaugural Ministerial Conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum will bring together leaders from across Africa and Russia to strengthen ties in trade, security, education, and regional collaboration. The event builds on the 2023 Russia-Africa Summit, with high expectations for actionable outcomes to deepen the partnership. Organized by the Roscongress Foundation, the event will focus on implementing decisions made at the summit while enhancing collaboration between Russia and African nations across various sectors, including politics, security, economics, science, technology, culture, and humanitarian affairs. Anton Kobyakov, Adviser to the Russian President, emphasized the significance of this initiative,…

In a significant operation, South African police announced on Sunday the arrest of 225 illegal miners who emerged from an abandoned mine shaft after facing severe shortages of food and water. The miners, locally known as “zama zamas,” which translates to “those who try” in Zulu, were forced to resurface from the site situated in Orkney, a town renowned for its gold mining activities. The police spokesperson reported that the miners had no choice but to exit the shaft due to conditions of starvation and dehydration. Authorities had implemented measures to block the routes previously used by accomplices to deliver…

Turkey reiterated its commitment to enhancing relationships with Africa during the recent African summit held in Djibouti on Sunday. The summit featured discussions on the importance of African support for diplomatic initiatives aimed at aiding Palestinians. In recent years, Turkey has made substantial investments across the African continent, with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan undertaking 50 visits to 31 nations during his 20-year presidency. The latest ministerial meeting in Djibouti welcomed representatives from 14 African countries, including Angola, Chad, Comoros, Republic of Congo, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, Libya, Mauritania, Nigeria, South Sudan, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, who…