Author: WAJ Team

The World Bank has revised its economic growth projection for sub-Saharan Africa, decreasing it from 3.4% to 3% for 2024, primarily due to the economic devastation caused by the ongoing civil war in Sudan. Despite this adjustment, growth is expected to remain above last year’s 2.4%, driven by increased private consumption and investment, as noted in the bank’s latest regional economic outlook report, Africa’s Pulse. Andrew Dabalen, the World Bank’s chief economist for Africa, emphasized that the recovery is progressing, albeit at a slow pace. He stated, “This is still a recovery that is basically in slow gear,” during a…

In a strategic move to modernize its military capabilities, Nigeria announced the acquisition of 24 M-346 attack jets and 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters from Italy. Air Force spokesperson Olusola Akinboyewa disclosed that a delegation led by Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, the Chief of the Air Staff, met with executives from Italian aerospace manufacturer Leonardo S.p.A. in Rome. The officials confirmed that the initial three M-346 aircraft are expected to arrive by early 2025, with further deliveries slated to continue until mid-2026. This latest procurement is part of Nigeria’s broader initiative to enhance its defense amid ongoing security challenges. The country…

Sibanye Stillwater (SSWJ.J) is embroiled in a $522 million compensation dispute with investment firm Appian Capital Advisory over the termination of a significant $1.2 billion deal aimed at acquiring Appian’s Brazilian nickel and copper mines. This announcement was made by the South African mining company on Monday. According to Sibanye spokesperson James Wellsted, “Appian is currently claiming damages of up to $522 million.” He added that Sibanye believes Appian should be entitled to either no compensation or significantly reduced damages. A representative from Appian declined to comment on the matter. Last week, the High Court in London ordered Sibanye to…

The European Investment Bank (EIB Global) has unveiled a €2 million (around Rwf3 billion) financing package to strengthen vaccine development efforts in Rwanda, supporting Akagera Medicines Africa in its mission to combat a range of infectious diseases including tuberculosis, HIV, Lassa fever, and Ebola. The funding is expected to accelerate crucial research, development, and vaccine manufacturing in Rwanda, playing a pivotal role in expanding the country’s pharmaceutical capabilities. In addition to boosting vaccine production, the financing will help enhance the technical skills and expertise of Rwandan teams, supporting home-grown innovation in vaccine discovery and delivery systems. At the World Health…

On Sunday, the Nigerian army announced that fifteen members of the Boko Haram group surrendered during an operation in the Aguata region of northeastern Borno State. This operation aimed to disrupt the group’s activities in the area and resulted in the destruction of their camp. Boko Haram has been operational since the early 2000s and has been involved in violent activities since 2009, which have led to a significant loss of life and widespread displacement in the region. The group has also extended its operations beyond Nigeria, conducting attacks in neighboring countries such as Cameroon, Chad, and Niger since 2015.…

Rwanda’s Health Minister, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, announced significant progress in the ongoing Marburg virus outbreak during a comprehensive briefing on Sunday, emphasizing that recoveries have now outnumbered fatalities. This encouraging trend signals that the country’s containment efforts are producing positive results in the face of a serious public health challenge. Since the outbreak began on September 27, Rwanda has confirmed 61 cases of the Marburg virus, which has tragically resulted in 14 deaths. Currently, 27 individuals are receiving treatment for the virus. In a positive update, Dr. Nsanzimana reported that two patients recovered over the weekend, bringing the total number…

Uganda has officially signed a contract with Turkish construction firm Yapi Merkezi to construct a 272-kilometer railway section, a strategic move aimed at boosting regional trade, as confirmed by Ugandan officials on Monday. Perez Wamburu, the coordinator for Uganda’s Standard Gauge Railway project, emphasized that this agreement marks the beginning of a much larger initiative that envisions a total of 1,700 kilometers of electric rail line across the country. During the signing ceremony, Bageya Waiswa, permanent secretary of Uganda’s Ministry of Works, highlighted the significance of the project in enhancing trade efficiency and reducing transportation costs. He stated that Uganda…

Rwanda has initiated a new five-year program aimed at enhancing crop productivity through agricultural biotechnology. The Rwanda Agricultural Biotechnology Program (Cassava, Maize, Potato – CMP), launched on October 11, is backed by a $10 million investment (approximately Rwf 13 billion) and will run from October 2024 to October 2029. The program is a collaboration between the Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB) and the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF), who will lead its implementation. The initiative aims to provide Rwandan farmers with access to high-yield crops, helping them mitigate losses caused by pests and diseases, which is crucial…

Comoros will conduct elections for its 33-seat parliament on January 12, amid a controversial political climate marked by opposition parties announcing a boycott of the polls. The Indian Ocean archipelago, home to nearly 800,000 residents, last held parliamentary elections in January 2020, and the upcoming vote is significant for the country’s political landscape. Earlier this year, President Azali Assoumani secured re-election for another five-year term, but his victory has been met with substantial opposition criticism. Rival parties have vehemently contested the election results, alleging widespread voting irregularities, including instances of ballot stuffing and the premature closing of polling stations—claims that…

The electoral commission announced on Sunday that Mozambique’s ruling Frelimo party has won the elections in the capital city of Maputo, a result anticipated to extend its time in power amid a tense voting atmosphere. Early results from Wednesday’s presidential election indicate that Frelimo is in the lead, but only results from Maputo have been released so far, despite expectations for all provinces to report by Sunday. Vote counting commenced on Wednesday for both presidential and parliamentary elections, with the current President Filipe Nyusi, 65, set to step down after serving the maximum of two terms. Daniel Chapo, the candidate…

Zimbabwe has confirmed its first two cases of mpox, as announced by the health ministry on Sunday. The specific variant of the virus has not been disclosed, raising questions about the potential implications for public health. The initial case was detected in an 11-year-old boy who developed symptoms last month after returning from a trip to South Africa. The second case involved a 24-year-old man who became ill following his travels to Tanzania. Both patients are currently under medical care and are reportedly recovering, while contact tracing efforts are being actively conducted to identify and inform any individuals who may…

Tito Mboweni, the former finance minister and South African Reserve Bank governor, has passed away at the age of 65 following a brief illness. His family confirmed the sad news in a statement released on Saturday evening, revealing that Mboweni died in a Johannesburg hospital, surrounded by close family members. Mboweni was a towering figure in South African politics and economic policy, contributing immensely to the country’s post-apartheid transformation. As South Africa’s first minister of labour, serving in Nelson Mandela’s cabinet from 1994 to 1999, Mboweni helped shape critical policies that empowered workers and advanced social justice. His tenure as…

Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) head, His Eminence Dr. Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, has revealed plans to conduct a comprehensive national census of the Muslim population in Uganda. The announcement came during his address after Friday prayers at Masjid Abubakar in Mbarara City, Western Uganda, on October 11, 2024. The decision follows concerns raised by the Muslim community over the recently released census by the Uganda National Bureau of Statistics, which placed the Muslim population at 6.05 million. Mufti Mubaje strongly disputed the figure, claiming that the actual Muslim population is closer to 12 million. He suggested that the inaccurate…

On October 12, Equatorial Guinea celebrates its independence from Spain, a momentous event that occurred in 1968. This national holiday marks the establishment of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea, a small nation in Central Africa. The islands of Annobón and Fernando Pó (Bioko) were claimed by Portugal in 1474, initiating colonization. Spain took control of the area, including the continental enclave of Rio Muni, in 1900. The region was known as Spanish Guinea from 1926 until it became a province in 1946. In 1959, a failed attempt at partial decolonization led to the formation of the provinces of Bioko and…

The African Union, alongside a coalition of 104 UN member states, has condemned Israel’s recent designation of Secretary-General Antonio Guterres as “persona non grata.” In a statement issued on Friday, the coalition emphasized its strong support for Guterres and criticized the action taken by Israeli Foreign Minister Yisrael Katz, asserting that it undermines the United Nations’ core mission. The group warned that such a designation could hinder ongoing efforts to resolve conflicts in the Middle East and obstruct the establishment of a two-state solution, which envisions peaceful coexistence between Palestine and Israel, in line with relevant UN resolutions. This unified…

On Monday, Senegal’s government is set to unveil an ambitious plan aimed at decreasing its reliance on foreign aid and debt, instead prioritizing local resources and human capital. Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko emphasized this shift as part of a broader commitment to change the country’s development trajectory, a promise made by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye upon taking office in April. Sonko criticized past development strategies, stating, “The approaches imposed on us will not foster the progress our nation needs.” He highlighted that this initiative represents a significant departure from previous policies characterized by excessive borrowing for projects that do not…

Moody’s has upgraded Ghana’s long-term local and foreign currency issuer ratings to “Caa2” from “Caa3” and “Ca,” respectively, in an announcement made on Friday. The credit ratings boost is a result of Ghana’s significant progress in restructuring its debt, which has substantially reduced financial strain on the government. In addition to the ratings upgrade, Moody’s revised the country’s outlook from “stable” to “positive,” signaling greater confidence in the nation’s fiscal direction. According to Moody’s, the shift to a positive outlook reflects the possibility of easing liquidity risks, with ongoing fiscal consolidation supported by an IMF program. These reforms are seen…

Set to take place in Istanbul from November 12-13, 2024, the Global Franchise & Distributorship Expo (AFEX) is gearing up to become a landmark event with a special focus on Africa. This expo aims to unite businesses, investors, and professionals from across the African continent. With more than 1,000 companies and 2,500 delegates from over 50 countries expected to attend, AFEX offers a robust platform for networking, investment, and creating sustainable partnerships. Spanning 10+ sectors, the expo provides an extensive range of opportunities for businesses looking to expand their reach. AFEX 2024 aims to guide attendees through the intricacies of…

On October 11, 1899, the Boer War, also referred to as the South African War or the Anglo-Boer War, began. This fiercely contested conflict pitted Great Britain (the British Empire) against two Boer republics: the Orange Free State and the South African Republic (Transvaal). Spanning nearly three years and concluding on May 31, 1902, the war saw Britain, recently having expanded its empire with control of the Indian subcontinent, seeking political dominance and influence over the Boer republics in Southern Africa. After a protracted and bloody struggle, Great Britain ultimately defeated the Boers, leading to their incorporation into the British…

On Friday, the South African rand demonstrated resilience by appreciating against the dollar, driven by recent U.S. economic data that solidified expectations for another interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve next month. As of 0809 GMT, the rand was valued at 17.4575 against the dollar (ZAR=D3), reflecting a notable gain of approximately 0.4% from its previous closing rate. In contrast, the dollar index recorded a slight decline of 0.04% against a basket of currencies, indicating a weakening of the dollar’s strength in the global market. The market’s speculation regarding a 25-basis point rate cut by the Fed gained traction…

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is making strides to address the rising crisis of substance abuse in Africa by convening the 15th Biennial International Conference on Drugs, Alcohol, and Society in Africa. This event, co-hosted with the Centre for Research and Information on Substance Abuse (CRISA), took place in Abuja from October 9 to 10, 2024. It gathered prominent policymakers, researchers, and health professionals to enhance treatment access for substance use disorders (SUDs) and explore emerging trends in drug addiction across the continent. In a keynote address, Dr. Daniel Amankwaah, Principal Programme Officer at the Drug Prevention…

The Africa CDC has officially announced that the Marburg virus outbreak in Rwanda is now considered “under control,” with the risk of the disease spreading beyond the country’s borders deemed “virtually nil.” This significant update was shared during an online press briefing on Thursday by Jean Kaseya, the Director-General of Africa CDC, reflecting the efforts made to manage the outbreak effectively. Kaseya highlighted that Rwanda has reported a total of 58 confirmed cases of the Marburg virus and 13 fatalities, as detailed by Rwandan Health Minister Sabin Nsanzimana during the briefing. Nsanzimana further elaborated that 12 patients have successfully recovered…

On October 11, President Paul Kagame held a crucial meeting with Dr. Jean Kaseya, the Director-General of the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). The discussions centered on Rwanda’s readiness to tackle the ongoing Marburg virus outbreak, and the collaborative efforts needed to contain its spread effectively. A statement from the President’s Office, shared on X, highlighted the significance of their dialogue, which focused on developing innovative strategies to enhance disease prevention across the continent. They also emphasized the importance of increasing local capacity for manufacturing vaccines and medical supplies, recognizing that self-sufficiency in healthcare is vital…

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will not face any criminal charges following a protracted investigation into a scandal involving $580,000 hidden in a couch at his ranch. The decision, announced by prosecutors, marks the end of a two-year inquiry prompted by allegations made by former national security chief Arthur Fraser. In June 2022, Fraser accused Ramaphosa of serious offenses, including kidnapping and bribery, relating to the theft of the cash, which he claimed was concealed in furniture to evade South Africa’s foreign currency regulations. Fraser alleged that, rather than reporting the theft, Ramaphosa attempted to cover it up by instructing…

In a strategic and forward-looking move to enhance its cocoa processing capabilities, Ivory Coast is actively considering the sale of an additional stake in its Transcao processing facility to the Malaysian cocoa company Guan Chong Berhad (GCB). This initiative, revealed by the country’s cocoa industry regulator, is primarily aimed at attracting further expertise and investment into the growing sector, which is critical to the nation’s economy. Guan Chong Berhad recently announced that its subsidiary based in Singapore has successfully reached an agreement to acquire a 25% stake in Transcao from Ivory Coast’s Coffee and Cocoa Council (CCC). The director of…

The British High Commission in Kampala has officially announced a substantial funding package of £1 million (approximately SHS 4.9 billion) to bolster Uganda’s response to the ongoing Mpox outbreak. This financial assistance will be directed towards two key partners: Baylor College of Medicine and the Infectious Disease Institute. The funding aligns with the Government of Uganda’s comprehensive Mpox response plan, reflecting a strategic collaboration aimed at effectively combating the outbreak. The allocated funds are intended to enhance the coordination of response efforts, improve surveillance systems, and strengthen risk communication and community engagement initiatives across the affected regions. By focusing on…

On Thursday, Algeria took a significant step towards strengthening international tax cooperation by signing the Multilateral Convention on Mutual Administrative Assistance in Tax Matters at the OECD Headquarters in Paris. The agreement, signed by Ms. Amel Abdellatif, Algeria’s Tax Commissioner, marks a pivotal moment for the country and brings the total number of jurisdictions participating in the Convention to 148. This important development positions Algeria within the world’s most extensive treaty focused on tax cooperation and information sharing, highlighting the nation’s commitment to enhancing transparency and accountability in its tax practices. By joining the Convention, Algeria will gain the ability…

Zambia has reported its first confirmed case of mpox, as announced by Health Minister Elijah Muchima. The patient, a 32-year-old male from Tanzania, traveled to Zambia from a neighboring country last month and began exhibiting symptoms earlier this month. He is currently receiving treatment at a healthcare facility in the Central Province, where medical staff are closely monitoring his condition. Minister Muchima emphasized the potential health risks associated with the patient’s extensive travel history and interactions across multiple locations in Zambia, which raises concerns about local transmission and possible cross-border spread of the virus. In light of this confirmed case,…

The Cameroonian government has taken decisive action by banning all media outlets from discussing the health of President Paul Biya, Africa’s second-longest-serving leader, following widespread rumors regarding his condition. The move comes after growing speculation that the 91-year-old leader, who has not been seen in public since early September, may be critically ill. A government document, dated October 9 and signed by Minister of Territorial Administration Paul Atanga Nji, underlined the importance of national security in justifying the ban, stating that the health of the president is a “matter of national security.” As such, all media discussions on the subject…

Health workers represented by the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) and the Assembly of Healthcare Professionals have declared their intention to embark on a nationwide strike in 15 days unless the Federal Government addresses their longstanding welfare concerns. This ultimatum reflects the growing frustration among healthcare professionals regarding unresolved issues affecting their work environment and compensation. In a memo directed to the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, dated October 9, 2024, the unions warned that they would resume their previously suspended strike action on October 25 if their demands continue to go unmet. This memo…

Nigeria has begun proceedings to sanction Starlink, the satellite internet service owned by billionaire Elon Musk, following an unauthorized increase in its subscription fees. The company recently raised its monthly subscription from 38,000 naira to 75,000 naira, citing “excessive inflation,” while the cost of equipment surged by 34% to 590,000 naira. Under Nigerian law, telecommunications providers are required to obtain approval from regulatory authorities before making any tariff adjustments. The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) announced on Tuesday that it initiated pre-enforcement actions against Starlink on October 3, due to the company’s decision to hike prices without the necessary authorization. Although…

Chad’s capital is grappling with a significant crisis as the Logone River has surged to its highest level in nearly four decades, according to local authorities. This alarming increase, reported on Wednesday, comes as the nation continues to endure devastating flooding that has persisted for several weeks, creating widespread disruption and distress among the population. The ongoing monsoon season has brought above-average rainfall to West and Central Africa, resulting in severe flooding across the region. Chad has been identified as the worst-affected country, with approximately 1.9 million people impacted as of October 5, as reported by the United Nations Office…

Recent reports indicate that young women from various African nations were drawn in by social media advertisements promising free plane tickets, financial incentives, and thrilling adventures in Europe. The requirements included completing a computer game and a brief 100-word Russian vocabulary test. However, upon arriving in Russia’s Tatarstan region, many discovered a grim reality. From Hope to Disillusionment: A False Work-Study Program Instead of engaging in work-study programs in hospitality or catering, many of these women learned they would be laboring in factories to assemble weapons for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Investigations revealed that they were forced to produce…

Rwanda and Guinea have signed 12 memoranda of understanding to strengthen their bilateral cooperation. The agreements were finalized during a Joint Permanent Commission meeting held in Kigali, addressing key sectors such as tourism, administrative reform, public administration modernization, diplomacy, and economic growth. Among the key agreements is a collaboration between the Guinea Export Promotion Agency (AGUIPEX) and the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). Additionally, a significant partnership was formed between RDB and the Guinea Special Economic Zone Agency (ADAZZ). The meeting was co-chaired by Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, alongside his Guinean counterpart, Morissanda Kouyate. The…

Bolivia has formally aligned itself with South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). The announcement from the court confirmed that Bolivia submitted an application on Tuesday to intervene in the case, which alleges that Israel has engaged in “genocidal acts” during its military operations in Gaza, contravening the Genocide Convention. Bolivia’s participation adds to a growing coalition of nations involved in the proceedings, including Colombia, Libya, Spain, Mexico, Palestine, Nicaragua, and Turkey. In a significant ruling earlier this year, the ICJ mandated that Israel must take all necessary actions to prevent genocide in Gaza…

At the prestigious “Africa Oil Week: Investing in African Energy” event held on Wednesday in Cape Town, South Africa, representatives from Liberia, Tanzania, and Zanzibar announced significant new licensing rounds designed to advance oil and gas exploration across their respective territories. This initiative underscores the commitment of these nations to develop their energy sectors and attract foreign investment in their abundant natural resources. Liberia revealed plans for an expansive new licensing program featuring 29 blocks as part of a structured three-phase exploration initiative. This program is particularly appealing to investors, as it allows for 100% cost recovery on seismic data…

Vote counting officially started in Mozambique on Thursday following a national election marked by peaceful proceedings. Analysts predict that the ruling Frelimo party will extend its nearly half-century reign, which has lasted 49 years. Votes are being tallied at polling stations first, with district results anticipated by Saturday. These results could provide an early indication of the leading candidate, while the electoral commission typically releases official results within two weeks. The incoming president will face several significant challenges, including security issues in the northern region that have disrupted vital multi-billion dollar gas projects and displaced hundreds of thousands. Additionally, the…

On Wednesday, a mass burial was held in North Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo, for the victims of a ferry disaster that claimed over 78 lives. The ceremony took place at Nyirangongo’s Makao cemetery, with participation from government officials, including the ministers of interior and social affairs, alongside local leaders and civil society representatives. Earlier, families of the victims visited morgues in Goma, hoping for updates on the missing. Many are still unaccounted for, and while authorities continue search efforts, they have advised families to brace for the worst, as chances of finding survivors are slim. Some relatives expressed frustration,…

South Africa has officially announced a comprehensive series of reforms to its work visa system aimed at drawing foreign talent to bolster its economy and stimulate job creation. Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber disclosed the new guidelines on Wednesday, marking a significant departure from the country’s previous immigration policies, which have faced considerable criticism for being perceived as xenophobic. Historically, foreign nationals with job offers in South Africa encountered extensive wait times, often enduring months or even years for visa approvals, with many applications denied without clear explanations. These challenges have deterred skilled professionals from considering opportunities in South Africa.…

Three African nations—Gambia, Kenya, and Zimbabwe—are on the verge of abolishing the death penalty, representing a significant potential shift toward ending capital punishment in the region. Amnesty International has urged these countries to act promptly, highlighting that their decision could pave the way for similar reforms globally. Amnesty International reports that there have been no executions in these nations for over a decade, during which time numerous death sentences have been commuted. Lucia Masuka, the head of Amnesty International in Zimbabwe, emphasized the growing global movement away from the death penalty and strongly urged African nations to follow suit. She…

Rwandan President Paul Kagame has called on African governments to prioritize the growth of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) as a key pillar in the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). He emphasized that businesses owned by women and youth are vital to the continent’s economic future and should be supported to expand. Kagame made the remarks while officially opening Biashara Afrika 2024, a three-day forum themed “Dare to Invent the Future of the AfCFTA,” which is focused on building regional value chains and establishing stronger supply networks across Africa. “SMEs are the backbone of Africa’s economy,…

Algeria is set to enhance its wheat imports from Russia, with projections indicating that purchases could reach 3 million metric tons during the current season. This anticipated increase follows the allocation of a significant portion of 510,000 tons purchased by Algeria’s state grains agency in a tender on October 8, which was largely awarded to Russian suppliers. According to the Russian trade mission in Algeria, if the current trend persists, supplies of Russian grain to Algeria could meet this target by the end of the season. This announcement follows Algeria’s recent decision to exclude French companies from its wheat import…

The main opposition party in Eswatini is compiling a “hit list” of game rangers, alleging that these rangers are involved in state-sanctioned killings of suspected poachers. Communities have been urged to help identify those rangers as tensions rise over poaching-related fatalities, leading to heightened fears of violence. While there is no confirmed tally of suspected poachers killed in Eswatini’s game parks, the Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Affairs estimates that dozens are killed annually. Opposition parties claim that hundreds of families have been affected by these deaths, prompting calls for the creation of a ranger “hit list.” Velephi Mamba, treasurer…

October 9th holds immense significance for Uganda, marking the anniversary of its independence from British colonial rule in 1962. Celebrated with great enthusiasm and pride across the country, this day reflects on Uganda’s journey towards sovereignty and its rich cultural heritage. Known as the “Pearl of Africa,” Uganda’s path to independence has been marked by resilience, unity, and national pride. Since gaining freedom, the country has grown into a vibrant nation with over 45 million people, and each year, nationwide parades and performances highlight this historical milestone, attracting tourists and honoring the nation’s progress. Historical Milestones Leading to Independence Uganda’s…

On Wednesday, the South African rand experienced a modest decline as traders awaited the highly anticipated minutes from the Federal Reserve’s September meeting, which are expected to provide critical insights into the central bank’s recent policy decisions. By 0746 GMT, the rand was trading at 17.6125 against the dollar, reflecting a decrease of 0.11% from the previous day’s close. In contrast, the dollar index registered a 0.17% increase against a basket of currencies, highlighting a strengthening dollar that often influences emerging market currencies. Market analysts expect the Fed minutes to clarify the rationale behind the significant interest rate cut enacted…

As Namibia gears up for its seventh election since independence on November 27, 2024, a significant decline in public trust toward the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) has been noted, dropping by 29 percentage points over the last ten years. Recent findings from the Afrobarometer Round 10 survey show that while a substantial 74% of Namibians favor electing their leaders through regular, transparent, and fair elections, only 45% express confidence in the ECN. Alarmingly, just 16% of respondents report high levels of trust in the commission, a stark contrast to the 74% who expressed trust in 2014. Although Namibians have…

The Democratic Republic of Congo has raised serious concerns regarding Rwanda’s role in obstructing negotiations aimed at resolving the protracted M23 rebel conflict in eastern Congo, which has resulted in the displacement of over 1.7 million individuals. During a recent address to the U.N. Security Council, Congolese Foreign Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner expressed her government’s frustrations, emphasizing that Rwanda’s actions have come in the wake of accusations from Rwandan officials about Congo’s reluctance to sign an agreement reached in late August through mediation by Angola. The Tutsi-led M23 group has been actively engaged in an insurgency in eastern Congo since…

On Tuesday, Akin Abayomi, the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, announced that 15,000 residents have been diagnosed with tuberculosis (TB) in 2024. However, he revealed that approximately 32,000 people in Lagos are believed to be living with the disease, leaving around 17,000 cases undetected. Abayomi made this announcement during the investiture ceremony for the Champions and Ambassadors of the Lagos Steering Committee for TB, which is led by Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the wife of the Lagos State governor. He stressed the urgent need for increased diagnostic efforts, stating, “Federal Government statistics indicate that we should identify 32,000 Lagosians with tuberculosis. We…

On Tuesday, the Dominican Republic disclosed that it has deported or repatriated nearly 11,000 Haitians in the past week. This initiative aligns with the country’s commitment to carry out such operations weekly, as Haiti continues to grapple with escalating gang violence and widespread poverty. William Charpentier, who coordinates the National Coalition for Migrations and Refugees in the Dominican Republic, expressed concern over the situation, stating, “We have received reports indicating that police are actively conducting these operations. This amounts to a persecution of Black individuals and those perceived to be Haitians.” Recently, the Dominican Republic announced its plan to deport…

Mozambique’s general election kicked off on Wednesday, with voters casting their ballots in a tense atmosphere where the ruling party, Frelimo, is projected to maintain its long-standing grip on power. The party has ruled since the country’s independence in 1975, and this election comes as the nation faces pressing challenges, including pervasive poverty and a violent Islamist insurgency in the northern regions that has uprooted thousands and disrupted key gas projects. In the capital, Maputo, early morning rain did not deter voters from lining up at polling stations. Among them was 22-year-old student, who expressed optimism about the election’s impact…

Cameroonian officials have reaffirmed that President Paul Biya, 91, is in good health, dispelling rumors that have been circulating on both social and mainstream media. Biya, who has not made a public appearance since his official trip to China over a month ago, has prompted growing concern among citizens, many of whom are now demanding concrete proof of his well-being. In a statement released on Tuesday, Samuel Mvondo Ayolo, director of the Civil Cabinet, emphasized that Biya is currently in Geneva, Switzerland, engaged in meetings and working for the country’s development. The statement was issued in response to unverified social…

At least 21 people have drowned following a collision between two unregistered passenger boats in Lagos state, Nigeria. The incident occurred on Monday in the town of Imore, within the Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Area. Reports indicate that both boats were carrying 16 passengers each when they capsized in the lagoon. Lagos state police spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin confirmed that 11 injured passengers were urgently taken to the Naval Hospital in Navy Town, Alakija, for treatment. Emergency responders, including police teams and local divers, were quickly mobilized to the scene to assist with recovery efforts. Hundeyin stated that the search for the…

Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov met with Burkina Faso’s Prime Minister Apollinaire J. Kyelem de Tambela in Moscow on Tuesday to discuss the potential expansion of military ties between the two nations. This meeting reflects Russia’s interest in enhancing its military and economic presence in Africa amid increased competition with Western countries following the war in Ukraine. The ongoing conflict has influenced Russia’s diplomatic strategies, prompting the country to seek partnerships in Africa. Following President Vladimir Putin’s decisive victory in the March presidential election, some African media outlets have indicated that his re-election may bolster the positions of Burkina Faso,…

UNICEF has expressed deep concern over the high levels of violence faced by children in Nigeria, with recent studies showing that nearly 60% of children are exposed to physical, sexual, or emotional abuse before the age of 18. Worryingly, only 5% of those affected receive the help and services they need. Speaking during a two-day forum in Abuja focused on ending violence against children, Mona Aika, UNICEF’s Child Protection Manager in Nigeria, emphasized the urgent need for action. She highlighted that Nigeria has already begun working to improve the ability of key institutions to tackle this issue. Through the INSPIRE…

Authorities have confirmed a case of mpox at Nakasongola prison in central Uganda. A prison spokesperson reported that the affected inmate has been isolated and is receiving treatment. This development follows the World Health Organization’s declaration of mpox as a global public health emergency for the second time in two years in August, triggered by an outbreak in the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo that has also affected Burundi and Rwanda. The identification of mpox in an overcrowded Ugandan prison raises significant concerns for health officials. The virus, which spreads through close contact, typically presents with mild symptoms but can…

Inyambo, the iconic long-horned royal cows of Rwanda, have made a highly anticipated return to Bigogwe after nearly 50 years, signaling a revitalization of cultural tourism in the region. This momentous occasion not only reconnects the community with its heritage but also enriches the local cultural landscape, appealing to both residents and visitors alike. Historically significant, Inyambo are more than just livestock; they represent the ancient Rwandan practices of selective breeding and symbolize the nation’s rich cultural heritage. The presence of these cows reflects the traditional values and practices that have shaped Rwandan society for centuries. Bigogwe, nestled in the…

Displaced islanders from the Chagos Islands demonstrated outside the UK Parliament on Monday, voicing their opposition to a recent agreement they believe has determined the future of their homeland without their involvement. These islanders were forcibly removed from their remote Indian Ocean home five decades ago to make way for the establishment of a US military base. Last week, the British government announced that it would transfer control of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius under an agreement that allows the continued presence of the US naval and bomber base on Diego Garcia. Critics of this deal have raised concerns about…

As Mozambique prepares for its presidential election on Wednesday, the incoming leader will face a series of economic hurdles, including the effects of severe cyclones, rising insecurity, delays in major gas projects, and a high debt burden. Ruling party candidate Daniel Chapo is the current frontrunner in the race, competing against three other candidates vying to succeed Felipe Nyusi as president of the southeast African nation. The country is grappling with escalating borrowing costs, which are pushing it toward tighter fiscal policies. Delays in expected gas revenues further complicate the situation, leaving limited options for refinancing its debt, which nearly…

Fortuna Mining (FVI.TO) stated on Monday that the government of Burkina Faso has confirmed it will not revoke the Canadian company’s existing mining permits. This follows comments made by leader Ibrahim Traoré on Saturday, where he mentioned plans to withdraw permits from certain foreign companies to enhance local gold production, but did not provide details on which permits would be impacted. As a result, shares of gold mining firms operating in Burkina Faso took a significant hit during trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange on Monday, dragging down the overall market index. Fortuna Mining’s stock fell by 9% by 3:25…

The U.N. World Food Program (WFP) is intensifying efforts to combat increasing malnutrition rates among children in Malawi, where an ongoing drought has led to severe food shortages. This drought is the most significant to impact southern Africa in decades, affecting not only Malawi but also neighboring countries. Malawi has been grappling with food insecurity for the last three years, largely due to a series of natural disasters. These include Tropical Storm Ana in 2022 and Tropical Cyclone Freddy in 2023, compounded by the current El Niño phenomenon, which has resulted in extreme drought conditions across the region. According to…

Zambia has entered into a significant partnership with China to establish the country’s first cholera vaccine manufacturing plant, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Monday. This $37 million initiative will focus on producing three million doses in its initial phase, through a joint venture between Zambia’s Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) and China’s Jijia International Medical Technology Corporation. Speaking at the signing ceremony held at State House in Lusaka, President Hakainde Hichilema emphasized the critical role this project will play in Zambia’s ongoing efforts to combat cholera, a disease that has been a recurring public health issue,…