Author: WAJ Team

Nigeria and Niger have decided to strengthen their security cooperation, the Nigerian military reported on Thursday, despite ongoing tensions following last year’s coup in Niger. On Wednesday, the defense chiefs of both nations signed a memorandum of understanding in Niamey, Niger’s capital, reaffirming their dedication to revitalizing their partnership to promote regional stability and security. The relationship between Nigeria and Niger became strained after the July 2023 coup that removed Mohamed Bazoum from power, leading to divisions within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and raising concerns about the fight against Islamist insurgency in the region. In response…

Ghana is preparing to invite investors holding its Eurobonds to participate in a debt exchange program, according to Finance Minister Mohammed Amin Adam’s announcement on Thursday. This initiative involves offering new bonds to replace existing ones, with the goal of resetting the country’s relationship with the international bond market. The exchange program will span 21 days, during which the government hopes for comprehensive participation from all bondholders. This step is part of Ghana’s broader strategy to stabilize its financial standing and enhance investor confidence. In a related move, the Ghanaian government will also seek funds through a syndicated loan and…

Namibia is gearing up to finalize its sovereign wealth fund by 2025, a move that aligns with the anticipated approval of the nation’s first offshore oil project. This development is seen as a significant step for the country, which has yet to begin oil or gas production but has recently emerged as a prime destination for energy exploration. According to government officials, a comprehensive law is being crafted to regulate how the fund will be managed, including the rules for withdrawals and investments. The legislation is expected to be presented to parliament by early next year, with full operational status…

Two exciting China-Africa film collaborations are set to captivate audiences with stories from Mauritius and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), while promoting film industry cooperation. Filming for these projects is slated to begin next year, with locations in both China and Africa. Luc Bendza of the African Film Association in China reports that the production is expected to last between two to three months, and efforts to secure funding are ongoing. The productions include “Love in Mauritius,” a romance film, and “Terres D’Acier, Ames De Cristal” (Land of Steel, Souls of Crystal), set in the DRC. Both films will…

A comprehensive report reveals that Africa’s rising population is driving an increased demand for processed foods. According to Ousmane Badiane, co-chair of the Malabo Montpellier Panel, the expanding middle class is seeking African foods with modern conveniences, such as enhanced packaging and ready-to-eat options. “As the population grows, along with incomes and urbanization, a substantial middle class has emerged,” Badiane said. “This demographic continues to prefer traditional foods but desires more contemporary ways to enjoy them.” For example, Forna Health Foods in Uganda produces a composite flour made from a blend of 12 different flours, used to prepare porridge suitable…

Rwanda’s lithium exploration has now reached an advanced phase, with companies preparing to start core-drilling. This essential process involves using hollow cylindrical drills to extract subsurface samples for analysis to determine the presence, concentration, and distribution of minerals. While core-drilling for lithium has previously occurred in Rwanda—achieved by Trinity Metals in 2023—the country’s exploration activities have expanded. Last August, Rwanda initiated a major exploration project through a joint venture involving multiple partners. This agreement facilitates the exploration and development of lithium and its by-products on 2,750 hectares in Southern Province, where 19 pegmatite zones containing lithium, cesium, and tantalum have…

Morocco and the Republic of Congo have taken a major step forward in deepening their collaboration on environmental protection and sustainable development. On Tuesday, officials from both nations signed a memorandum of understanding in Rabat, aiming to work together on critical issues such as climate change, biodiversity, and the development of green and blue economies. This agreement was signed during an official visit by the Congo’s Minister of Environment, Sustainable Development, and the Congo Basin. The visit focused on reviewing the progress of key environmental initiatives, including those under the Congo Basin Climate Commission and the Congo Basin Blue Fund,…

In Uganda, authorities have detained a man found in possession of 24 human skulls, which they suspect may have been used in ritual sacrifices. The individual will face charges under the Prevention and Prohibition of Human Sacrifice Act, with a potential life sentence if convicted. Alongside the skulls, police discovered animal remains and skins at his shrine located on the outskirts of Kampala. The search for additional human remains is ongoing. The suspect, who claims to be a traditional healer and herbalist, is being distanced from by the Traditional Healers’ Association in Uganda. This troubling case is part of a…

On Wednesday, a senior official reported that Africa has secured under 10% of the $245 million needed to address the rising mpox outbreak. The outbreak, which the World Health Organization declared a global health emergency in mid-August, has seen a new strain spreading from the Democratic Republic of Congo to adjacent countries, increasing the urgency for funding. The Africa CDC has outlined a budget to evaluate available funds and necessary resources for the mpox response. The initial projected cost is $245 million, as reported by Africa CDC Chief of Staff Ngashi Ngongo during a WHO meeting in Brazzaville. So far,…

Prosecutors in Congo have sought the death penalty for 50 individuals, including three U.S. citizens, accused of involvement in an alleged coup attempt earlier this year. Military prosecutor Lieutenant Colonel Innocent Radjabu called for the death sentence for all but one defendant, citing “psychological issues” as the reason for the exception. The trial, which began in June, involves serious charges such as terrorism, murder, and criminal conspiracy. These charges are linked to a failed coup in May, reportedly led by opposition figure Christian Malanga. The attempted coup targeted the presidential palace and a close ally of President Felix Tshisekedi, resulting…

Interpol has apprehended over 300 individuals linked to the notorious Black Axe criminal network and its affiliates across West Africa. The operation, called “Operation Jackal III,” unfolded in 21 countries between April and July 2024, uncovering the group’s involvement in significant global financial fraud and other serious crimes. This crackdown represents a significant blow to the Nigerian-based syndicate, revealing its extensive international reach and advanced technological capabilities, thus highlighting it as a global threat. The operation resulted in the seizure of $3 million in illegal assets and the freezing of over 700 bank accounts. Tomonobu Kaya, a senior official at…

South African luxury tycoon Johann Rupert, 74, has ascended to the top as Africa’s richest person, overtaking Nigeria’s Aliko Dangote. Rupert, who controls the world’s largest luxury watchmaker through a family trust, oversees a Swiss-based company that includes high-end brands such as Jaeger-LeCoultre and Cartier. According to the latest financial data, Rupert’s wealth has surged to $14.3 billion, placing him ahead of Dangote, whose net worth has fallen to $13.4 billion. Dangote, leader of the Dangote Group, has faced a $1.69 billion decline in his wealth this year, largely due to Nigeria’s challenging economic conditions affecting his business holdings. His…

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has sharply condemned the terror attack in Barsalogho, Burkina Faso, which resulted in around 200 fatalities and left 140 people injured. The attack, carried out by the militant group Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM), represents a significant increase in violence in the region. Rising Chaos The influx of armed groups, including JNIM, from neighboring Mali has exacerbated Burkina Faso’s security crisis, leading to two military coups in 2022. Many of the injured were transported to medical facilities in Kaya. The recent attack occurred while Barsalogho residents were fortifying the town against potential assaults. UN spokesperson…

Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera has launched the seventh cycle of the Global Fund Grant at Kamuzu Palace in Lilongwe, securing an initial amount of US$525 million (about K910 billion). In his speech, Chakwera emphasized that this initiative represents a renewed effort to tackle HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria, which have long hindered Malawi’s development and affected its people. He expressed deep gratitude to the Global Fund’s contributors, acknowledging their exceptional dedication to enhancing the health and well-being of Malawians. He also lauded the Global Fund for its support since 2003, including during the COVID-19 crisis, helping to advance Malawi’s health initiatives.…

The Nigerian state-owned oil firm NNPC has increased its exports of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to a Chinese port, following its debut delivery to Japan in June. As the top oil producer in Africa, Nigeria possesses the continent’s largest gas reserves, estimated at over 200 trillion cubic feet. The majority of its LNG exports have traditionally been handled through Nigeria LNG, where NNPC holds a 49% interest. NNPC Ltd began trading LNG in 2021, with its inaugural cargo sale taking place in November of that year. Since then, the company has shipped more than 20 cargoes to markets in Europe…

Within Zimbabwe’s ruling Zanu-PF party, there are increasing demands to amend the Constitution to enable the current president to remain in office beyond the legal limits. After initially assuming the presidency through a coup in November 2017 and serving the remainder of his predecessor’s term, the president officially began his first term following the 2018 elections. His second term, which commenced in August 2023, is legally restricted to being his final term. Despite this, a report indicates that Harare Province’s chairperson has advocated for legislative changes to extend the president’s tenure. He suggested either extending the length of each term…

Nigeria has received a shipment of 10,000 doses of mpox vaccine, becoming the first African country to obtain this vital resource during the current outbreak, previously known as monkeypox. The nation began efforts to acquire these vaccines prior to the recent global health emergency declaration by the World Health Organization (WHO). The rapid spread of mpox has particularly affected Africa, prompting calls for a more expedited international response. Nigeria, which has confirmed 40 cases this year and estimates the total could be over 700, received these vaccines as a donation from the United States. The country has reported no deaths…

Namibia has prohibited a ship transporting weapons to Israel from entering its territorial waters and the Port of Walvis Bay. According to reports, Namibian Justice Minister Yvonne Dausab has instructed relevant authorities, including the Namibian Port Authority, to deny entry to the vessel named “MV Kathrin,” which is carrying arms intended for Israel. Dausab clarified that Namibia’s position on the Palestinian issue is well-established. An investigation by the Namibian Police Forces revealed that the ship was carrying explosives meant for Israel, prompting the decision to block it from entering Namibian waters. Dausab, in her statement, called for an end to…

More than 31.8 million Nigerians are grappling with severe food insecurity, which is worsened by malnutrition affecting women and children. The 2024 Cadre Harmonise report highlights that the sharp increase in food prices, driven by the elimination of fuel subsidies and ongoing security issues, has pushed millions of Nigerians into a precarious situation. This information was presented by development partners at a Joint Review Meeting on Food Systems in Nigeria, held from August 26 to 27, 2024. Stakeholders underscored the necessity of a collaborative, multi-sectoral approach to effectively address food security challenges. They emphasized the need for involvement from civil…

Rwanda has extended up to $1.2 million (over Rwf1.5 billion) in aid to Caribbean nations affected by Hurricane Beryl, which struck in late June and early July. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Rwandan government allocated $300,000 to each of the four impacted countries: Grenada, Jamaica, Barbados, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The ministry stated on Monday, August 26, that Rwanda has shown solidarity in response to the Commonwealth Secretary General’s call to support member states hit by Hurricane Beryl. In this respect, $1.2 million has been distributed to Grenada, Jamaica, Barbados, and St.…

Nigeria has appointed German coach Bruno Labbadia as the new head of their men’s football team, marking a significant change after a challenging year with multiple coaching changes. The Nigeria Football Federation announced Labbadia’s appointment on social media, effective immediately, though the specifics of his contract were not disclosed. Labbadia will begin his role just 12 days before Nigeria’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign starts with a home match against Benin in Uyo, followed by an away fixture in Rwanda. At 58, Labbadia brings extensive experience from managing in the Bundesliga, with past roles at Bayer Leverkusen, Hamburg,…

The Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) expo will be held from September 18 to 22, 2024, at Air Force Base Waterkloof in Centurion, Gauteng. This premier event, recognized as Africa’s largest aerospace and defence exhibition, will once again spotlight key innovations in aviation, aerospace, and defence. The expo will feature leading industry figures and provide a platform for global discussions on defence and aerospace practices. Highlights will include top-tier air demonstrations, mobility displays, parachute drops, aerobatic performances, and static aircraft exhibitions. With over 30,000 trade visitors expected and more than 300 exhibitors participating, the three-day event will facilitate significant networking…

President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized on Monday that efforts to combat climate change should not lead to increased electricity costs for consumers. During his keynote speech at the first municipal just energy transition conference in Midrand, Ramaphosa highlighted that South African families, like many globally, are grappling with rising living and energy costs. He pointed out that these issues are being discussed worldwide and stressed that the transition to cleaner energy should not worsen energy poverty or deepen existing inequalities. These comments come amid reports of a proposed 40% increase in electricity tariffs by Eskom for the coming year. Ramaphosa also…

Heavy rains in northeastern Nigeria have resulted in at least 49 fatalities and displaced thousands of residents, according to authorities on Monday. The states of Jigawa, Adamawa, and Taraba have been severely impacted, with around 41,344 people forced to flee their homes. In 2022, Nigeria endured its most severe flooding in over ten years, leading to over 600 deaths, displacing approximately 1.4 million people, and destroying 440,000 hectares of farmland. Officials warn that the country is approaching the peak of the rainy season, especially in the northern regions, with conditions worsening. The floods have damaged about 693 hectares of farmland,…

Ghana has enacted a temporary ban on exporting grains including maize, rice, and soybean to ensure adequate domestic supply as the country contends with severe drought conditions impacting crop yields, according to the agriculture ministry. In recent months, rainfall in northern Ghana has been inconsistent and significantly less than last year’s amounts. The ongoing dry spell has disrupted agricultural output in Ghana, the world’s second-largest cocoa producer after Côte d’Ivoire. About 1.8 million hectares (4.45 million acres) are at risk, with around half of that area already affected. The crops most impacted include maize, rice, groundnut, soybean, sorghum, millet, and…

The government has allocated GH¢200 million to resettle households in the Tongu regions of the Volta Region impacted by the Akosombo Dam spillage. The initial phase of this resettlement project involves constructing and relocating 2,803 homes across the North (1,218), South (650), and Central (935) Districts. An additional GH¢61 million will be needed to complete this first phase, as outlined by the Director of Works at the Ministry of Works and Housing during a parliamentary inquiry into the dam spillage. The three Tongu districts, accounting for 45 percent of the damage from the Akosombo Dam spillage, are the most heavily…

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) will not receive its anticipated shipment of mpox vaccines this week, contrary to earlier expectations. The delay is due to ongoing procedural steps before the vaccines can be delivered. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has announced that it will not receive its first shipment of mpox vaccines this week. The delay comes as global health experts confirm that the disease’s spread can still be managed effectively. According to Cris Kacita, head of the DRC’s response team, several steps are still required before the vaccines can be delivered. The Congolese pharmaceutical regulatory…

Representatives from over 30 African countries will gather in Lusaka, Zambia, for a military law conference starting Tuesday. The event will address the role of legal advisers in troop deployments amid ongoing conflicts affecting stability in Africa. The African Military Law Forum, spanning four days, is being organized in collaboration with the Zambian Defense Force, U.S.-Africa Command, U.S. Army Europe and Africa, and the North Carolina National Guard. The conference will bring together military leaders and judges to focus on how legal advisers contribute to troop deployment operations. Retired Colonel Max Maxwell, deputy legal counsel at U.S.-Africa Command, highlighted the…

In a recent assault by al-Qaida-affiliated militants in central Burkina Faso, over 100 villagers and soldiers were killed. The attack occurred in the Barsalogho commune, about 80 kilometers from the capital. Villagers were helping security forces build defensive trenches when the attackers from the JNIM group struck, opening fire on them. Al-Qaida later took credit for the assault, claiming control over a strategic militia position in Barsalogho. The violence has been described as one of the deadliest incidents of the year in Burkina Faso. Videos of the scene, which showed numerous bodies, have been reviewed, though their accuracy has not…

The M23 rebels and the Congolese military are still trading accusations following a gunfire exchange on Sunday that disrupted ongoing peace negotiations between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), mediated by Angola. The M23 rebels, allegedly supported by Rwanda, claimed they engaged in combat after their airspace in Lubero and Rutshuru was allegedly violated by Congolese forces. An M23 spokesperson asserted that a plane from the Kinshasa government breached their airspace on Sunday, describing it as a significant violation of the ceasefire and an intolerable provocation. However, the Congolese military countered, stating that poor weather conditions would have…

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has begun his second visit to West Africa this year, aiming to address migration issues affecting the Canary Islands and counter Russian influence in the Sahel region. The migration flow to the Canary Islands has surged by 154% this year, with 21,620 individuals arriving in the first seven months. This increase has put a strain on the island’s resources, prompting local authorities to consider using military camps or tents to manage the influx, especially with the Atlantic Ocean’s calmer conditions expected to bring even more migrants. Spanish officials are concerned that up to 150,000 additional…

Africa is set to receive its initial shipment of mpox vaccines this week, following their earlier release in other parts of the world. The 10,000 doses, donated by the US, are intended to address a dangerous new variant of the virus, previously known as monkeypox, which raised global alarm after an outbreak in 2022. While more than 70 countries outside Africa have already received these vaccines, the delay in providing them to the continent highlights serious issues in addressing global health emergencies, according to health officials and experts. They noted that the World Health Organization only began facilitating access to…

In the picturesque town of Hlathikhulu, Eswatini, local residents are demonstrating how ancient customs can harmoniously coexist with modern conservation efforts. Perched in a high-altitude region with a unique humid subtropical climate, Hlathikhulu provides a sanctuary for vervet monkeys, whose playful interactions with the community reflect a deep cultural connection. Tradition and Conservation The communities of Hlathikhulu, along with surrounding peri-urban villages such as Sibetsamoya, Nice Fill, and Mbotjeni, have long embraced the tradition of coexisting with vervet monkeys. These monkeys are seen not only as wildlife but as integral to the community’s cultural heritage. Traditional beliefs hold that the…

Congo-Brazzaville has confirmed 21 cases of mpox, the health minister announced on Sunday. The country has tracked 158 suspected cases since January, with 21 confirmed and the latest two reported on Thursday. Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is surging across eastern and central Africa and has also appeared in Asia and Europe, leading to a global health emergency. In Congo-Brazzaville, the virus has affected five of the country’s 15 regions, with the northern forested areas of Sangha and Likouala being particularly impacted. A new variant, Clade 1b, has been responsible for a severe outbreak in neighboring DR Congo, resulting in…

This week, the Port of Lobito in Angola witnessed a significant milestone as it shipped its first batch of copper to the United States, transported aboard the MSC SAMU container vessel. This development marks a new chapter in the Lobito Atlantic Railway’s operations, following its takeover of the concession in January and several successful shipments to European and Far Eastern destinations. The copper cathodes, destined for Baltimore, arrived in Lobito on August 19, having been transported from Kolwezi via a Lobito Atlantic Railway train. The journey was completed in just six days, showcasing the efficiency of the newly established western…

According to budget execution data obtained by Lusa on Friday, Mozambique’s fishing production rose by 10.3% in the first six months of the year, reaching 240,398 tonnes, with aquaculture playing a significant role in this growth. Government figures reveal that this production represents 46% of the annual target of 522,671 tonnes set for 2024, which includes both fishing and aquaculture. The most notable growth was seen in the industrial aquaculture sector, which nearly doubled its output by 80.3% from January to June compared to the same period in 2023, reaching 5,132 tonnes, or 52.5% of the 2024 target. This expansion…

Four individuals have died and more than 200 have been displaced after a fire ravaged a three-story building in Jeppestown, according to South African authorities. The fire, which occurred on Sunday morning, affected a structure being used by undocumented residents. Three injured individuals have been hospitalized. The Mayor of Johannesburg has announced plans to address issues related to hijacked buildings. The mayor described the building as an abandoned industrial site that residents had partitioned with sheets of metal to create living spaces. Building Unfit for Habitation City of Johannesburg Emergency Management Services spokesperson Robert Mulaudzi states the building was never…

On Sunday, the President of Tunisia, Kais Saied, carried out a major cabinet overhaul, including changes to the foreign and defense ministers, according to a statement posted on Facebook. The reshuffle, which replaced 19 ministers and three state secretaries, follows the recent dismissal of the former prime minister. The announcement made on August 25, 2024, provided no further details. This reshuffle occurs as the country prepares for presidential elections set for October 6. Saied, elected in 2019, has been consolidating his power since a significant shift in 2021. Kais Saied is pursuing a second term in office, describing his campaign…

Twenty medical students from Nigeria, who were kidnapped en route to a conference, have been released after being held for over a week. The abduction occurred on August 15 in Benue State, where the students were taken by gunmen who initially demanded a ransom. On Saturday, Nigerian authorities confirmed that the students, from the University of Maiduguri and University of Jos, were freed on Friday. The release was achieved without any ransom, with the operation described as executed “tactically and professionally.” A specialized tactical unit had been deployed to Benue State in response to the increasing number of abductions in…

At least 15 people, including children, were killed in a series of drone strikes on Sunday in the northern town of Tinzaouaten, near the Algerian border, according to local reports. The strikes occurred in an area where intense fighting had recently taken place between Malian forces and insurgent groups. This latest attack follows earlier airstrikes by Malian forces targeting insurgents around Tinzaouaten after a deadly clash in July, which resulted in significant casualties among Malian soldiers and Russian mercenaries. The town has been a focal point of conflict, with various groups vying for control in the volatile region. On Sunday,…

For the first time since the global outbreak began in 2022, Côte d’Ivoire has confirmed cases of mpox Clade 2. Health authorities revealed that at least 28 cases have been identified, with one resulting in death. The development comes as Thailand also reports its first case of a more lethal strain of mpox, marking the first known instance of this strain in Asia. The infected individual in Thailand had recently traveled from Africa. Health officials in Côte d’Ivoire are stepping up monitoring and response efforts in light of the recent cases. “We have recorded 28 confirmed cases and one death,”…

In Limpopo, a farmer and two employees appeared in court on Friday, facing charges related to the murder of two women whose decomposed bodies were discovered in a pigsty. Zachariah Olivier, 60, along with Adriaan de Wet, 19, and William Musoro, 45, are charged with two counts of murder, attempted murder, possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, and obstructing justice. Musoro also faces charges for violating immigration laws due to his illegal status. The court has postponed the case to August 30 for a formal bail hearing. The arrests followed the finding of the bodies on a farm in…

President Cyril Ramaphosa has defended the R44 million spent on four imbizos in the last eight months, labeling it as “money well spent” despite backlash and a complaint from the civil society group #NotInMyName to the public protector. At the first imbizo of his second term in Ekurhuleni, Ramaphosa acknowledged the high cost but underscored the importance of these meetings for engaging with the public. Attendees, including government ministers and provincial leaders, raised concerns about persistent problems such as inadequate water supply, housing shortages, and electricity issues. One resident’s plea for stable home ownership highlighted the widespread frustration. The meeting…

The United Kingdom-Zimbabwe Business Expo, scheduled for October, is poised to be a major event in boosting the economic relationship between Zimbabwe and its Diaspora community. The expo, organized by the Zimbabweans in Diaspora Organisation (ZIDO) and Vaka Ekhaya, aims to open up significant investment opportunities and encourage wealth creation, aligning with the Zimbabwean government’s initiative to involve the Diaspora in the country’s economic progress. Set to be held at the Bethel Convention Centre in Birmingham, the event is anticipated to attract a large number of Zimbabweans from the UK and other regions, positioning itself as a crucial platform for…

In response to a severe and prolonged drought, Namibia’s government has decided to cull over 700 animals from its national parks. The Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism announced that this measure is intended to reduce the strain on limited grazing resources and supply much-needed meat to vulnerable communities affected by the drought. The culling operation will involve 83 elephants, 30 hippos, 100 elands, and 300 zebras, specifically targeting parks where wildlife populations remain sustainable. The government emphasized that the decision was made after careful consideration, aiming to prevent a potential ecological disaster and further hardship for local communities. Addressing…

Uganda and DRC ministers have reviewed their 2018 agreement on fishing in Lakes Edward and Albert. This Bilateral Fisheries Agreement, created during the 7th Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) session, aimed to manage fisheries and aquaculture sustainably in these lakes and their surrounding basin. At the 8th JPC session held in Kinshasa, both countries stressed the importance of enhancing this agreement and ensuring consistent financial support. On Thursday, Uganda’s State Minister for Fisheries and her DRC counterpart, as part of the DRC council of ministers, approved the organization’s work plan and budget. The council acknowledged the progress made and the improved…

There was massive oversubscription for the Springboks versus All Blacks clash at DHL Stadium, but the Stormers have kept some tickets back for sale. CEO Johan le Roux explains how the ticketing system will reward loyal supporters. Years ago, El Bulli in Spain’s Costa Brava was famous for its innovative dining and faced an overwhelming 400,000 to 500,000 reservation requests annually, despite seating only 8,000 guests per season. Today, a similar demand is seen for the Springboks versus All Blacks matches in South Africa in 2024. Tickets for the Tests at Ellis Park on August 31 and DHL Stadium on…

On Thursday, Johannesburg and Cape Town witnessed demonstrations organized by a coalition of Palestinian solidarity groups, trade unions, and civil society organizations. The protests, coordinated by the South African BDS and Energy Embargo for Palestine Campaign, targeted Swiss mining company Glencore, which activists accuse of supporting Israel’s military actions through coal supplies. Protesters gathered outside Glencore’s Johannesburg headquarters and its subsidiary Astron’s offices in Cape Town. They are demanding an immediate halt to South Africa’s coal exports to Israel, urging compliance with international law and a stance against what they describe as genocide and apartheid. The protests come in response…

Nigeria is channeling resources into digital infrastructure and talent development to foster economic growth within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The nation’s digital economy has already reshaped how people engage in commerce, banking, and communication, creating new opportunities for economic advancement. The AfCFTA is focused on creating uniform digital trade regulations that promote a smooth, secure, and inclusive trading environment, both within Africa and internationally. Important aspects of this framework include market access, data governance, and building consumer confidence. A newly launched strategy in Nigeria is centered on expanding digital infrastructure, encouraging innovation, and aligning government efforts to…

The Rockefeller Foundation has praised Uganda for being the first nation to develop a health national adaptation plan aimed at managing the effects of climate change. William Asiko, the foundation’s Africa Vice President, praised Uganda’s rapid containment of the Ebola outbreak, which was managed in just 90 days, showcasing the country’s capacity to handle such crises effectively. The new five-year plan outlines Uganda’s strategies for preparing for and responding to emergencies, aligning with global guidelines set by the United Nations climate convention. Dr. Diana Atwine, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, described the plan as a comprehensive guide for…

Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) has firmly defended the accuracy of Census 2022 data, rejecting demands from the academic and scientific communities for a recount. The agency faced scrutiny after deciding not to release critical data, such as statistics on mortality, fertility, employment, and household income, based on expert recommendations. This withheld data is essential for enriching the Census 2022 findings, which help researchers, policymakers, and government bodies better understand societal dynamics and allocate taxpayer resources effectively. The decision to withhold the data has raised concerns among demographers about the reliability of the census, conducted in February 2022 during the…

Lewis Hamilton, the only Black driver in Formula One, is determined to bring a race to Africa to showcase the continent’s beauty. He believes now is the perfect time and is collaborating with Rwanda and South Africa to make this happen. During the Dutch Grand Prix, Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, stressed the importance of including Africa in the Formula One calendar. He criticized the sport for overlooking the continent and suggested that a Grand Prix could boost tourism and highlight Africa’s appeal. Hamilton pointed out that there is already a track in Africa ready for use and proposed incorporating…

Following the shift in Niger’s government on July 26 of last year, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has encountered deepening rifts, prompting urgent efforts to resolve internal conflicts. This push to mend relations emerged after a noticeable drop-in support for the bloc, culminating in Niger’s military government collaborating with those of Mali and Burkina Faso to form a new coalition known as the Alliance of Sahel States (AES). The tension escalated over the past year, particularly after ECOWAS’s decision to cut electricity supplies and close borders with Niger, which only reinforced Niger’s resolve to break away along…

Rwanda has imposed a ban on 43 religious organizations nationwide, effective August 28, following recent actions against unauthorized churches. The Ministry of Local Government has directed local officials to enforce this ban after discovering that these groups were not complying with regulatory standards. Many of the affected organizations are Pentecostal, including the Lutheran Church, which has been operating in Rwanda since the 1990s. This move follows the closure of more than 5,000 churches that were found to be non-compliant and posing safety risks to their congregations. Mandatory Training Authorities have reported that 59.3% of over 13,000 churches inspected by late…

In north-central Nigeria, armed attackers have killed at least 13 farmers during an assault on Wednesday, as reported by local officials. The violence occurred in Niger state, and no group has yet claimed responsibility. Local authorities suspect that herders or kidnappers might be behind the attack, possibly targeting the farmers for allegedly sharing information about the attackers with intelligence agencies. The region has been marred by ongoing conflicts between nomadic herders and rural farmers over land and water resources, resulting in numerous fatalities this year. The violence has escalated from stick fights to armed confrontations involving smuggled firearms. Religious tensions…

Africa is witnessing a maritime revolution as its ports become central to global trade dynamics. Once considered peripheral, these maritime hubs are now pivotal to the continent’s economic expansion and international trade network. The transformative developments across Africa’s port infrastructure underscore a significant shift in the global logistics landscape. Some of the major ports are: Tanger Med, Morocco: North Africa’s Trade Powerhouse Morocco’s Tanger Med Port has emerged as Africa’s leading maritime gateway, managing over 9 million TEUs annually. Strategically located on the Strait of Gibraltar, Tanger Med connects Africa with Europe, the Americas, and Asia, making it a crucial…

Namibia’s agriculture minister has urged farmers to seek alternative markets for charcoal and beef products as the European Union has implemented non-tariff barriers in 2023, affecting one of the country’s key trading partners. The European Union’s decision to enforce regulations on agricultural products from deforested areas in Namibia has sparked concerns about market access for items such as beef and charcoal. These products will only be allowed in the European market if they meet the new standards, which Namibia’s Agriculture Minister, Calle Schlettwein, considers to be strict and limiting. “When engaging in agriculture, land clearing is often required. Our charcoal…

Tunisia’s upcoming general elections on 6 October will feature only three presidential candidates, a significant drop from the 26 who ran in 2019. Human rights activists claim this reduction is part of President Kais Saied’s ongoing assault on democracy. They also highlight that this repression echoes the December 2022 parliamentary elections, where voter turnout was a mere 8.8%. The January 2023 parliamentary runoffs saw similarly low engagement, with just 11% of voters participating out of the 7.8 million registered. Saied, now 66, dissolved the government and parliament on 25 July 2021 and later introduced a new constitution that concentrated nearly…

The Katsina State Police Command has successfully freed 30 kidnapped individuals and recovered an AK-47 rifle after conducting operations against terrorists in Dutsinma, Safana, Jibia, and Malumfashi Local Government Areas. On August 17, police rescued seven victims during a raid on terrorist hideouts between Dutsinma and Safana, and three more were saved after intercepting a kidnapping attempt in Jibia. Additionally, 20 people abducted from Yaba village in Malumfashi on August 20 were rescued following a dramatic shootout with the perpetrators. The police operation, which took place on August 21, 2024, involved a coordinated effort by the Dutsinma Police Division and…

Starlink, a SpaceX initiative, has managed to secure permission to operate in just 10 African countries so far. Elon Musk will need to negotiate separately with each nation to expand his reach. An infographic illustrates the current situation. While Musk has been occupied with supporting Donald Trump recently, he hasn’t lost focus on the Starlink project, which he launched in 2015. The satellite internet service now spans over 100 countries, yet only 10 are in Africa. Both Africa and Asia are continents where Starlink has not yet achieved complete coverage. This delay is notable given that sub-Saharan Africa is a…

A massive 2,492-carat diamond, the second-largest ever found, has been unearthed from a mine in Botswana. This gem, discovered at the Karowe mine managed by Canada’s Lucara Diamond Corp., is still awaiting a detailed evaluation to determine its quality. While it’s not as large as the 3,106-carat Cullinan Diamond, the largest ever found nearly 120 years ago in South Africa, it remains a significant discovery. Karowe mine is renowned for its large diamonds; in 2015, it produced the 1,109-carat Lesedi La Rona, then the second-largest ever discovered, which later sold for $53 million. Additionally, the mine has yielded an 813-carat…