Author: WAJ Team

A U.S. congressional watchdog has revealed that the 2012 Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) rule on conflict minerals has not succeeded in reducing violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), in a detailed report released on Monday, found no concrete evidence that the rule, aimed at curbing the use of minerals such as tantalum, tin, tungsten, and gold, has led to a decline in violence in the eastern regions of the DRC. Armed groups continue to battle for control of the area’s lucrative mining operations. Despite its intent to mitigate conflict by regulating…

Tunisian President Kais Saied has won a second five-year term by a significant margin, achieving over 90% of the votes in an election marked by historically low voter participation. According to the Independent High Authority for Elections (ISIE), the turnout was just 27.7%. Ayachi Zammel, who is currently incarcerated, came in second with 7.4% of the votes, following his 12-year prison sentence for alleged document forgery during the election process. Former lawmaker Zouhair Maghzaoui, who previously aligned with Saied, also appeared on the ballot. The ISIE had eliminated more than a dozen candidates prior to the election, leaving only these…

Desmond Mpilo Tutu was born on October 7, 1931, in the small South African town of Klerksdorp. This date marks the beginning of a remarkable life that would see Tutu become an international symbol of peace, justice, and reconciliation. His journey from humble beginnings to a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and a prominent figure in the struggle against apartheid is a testament to his resilience, faith, and steadfast commitment to human dignity. Early Life and Education Desmond Tutu was the son of Zachariah Zelilo Tutu, a teacher, and Aletta Tutu, a domestic worker. Despite facing financial hardships, his parents emphasized…

Three individuals appeared in a South African court on Monday, facing serious charges related to a high-profile theft involving millions of dollars in cash from President Cyril Ramaphosa’s game farm in 2020. This incident, which has become known as the “Farmgate” scandal, nearly led to a significant political crisis for Ramaphosa two years ago. The accused—Imanuwela David, Ndilinasho Joseph, and Froliana Joseph—are specifically charged with housebreaking and theft, highlighting the severity of their alleged actions. During their appearance in a regional court located in Limpopo province, the case was postponed until November 26. Bail was granted for the Joseph siblings,…

The Coffee and Cocoa Council (CCC) of Ivory Coast has taken significant action by confiscating 33 trucks that were transporting approximately 1,100 tonnes of cocoa beans smuggled from Guinea, as reported by two sources connected to the council. The surge in cocoa smuggling within the region has been linked to the poor harvests experienced in both Ghana and Ivory Coast, which are recognized as the world’s largest and second-largest cocoa producers. The details of this seizure have been corroborated by a military official, two buyers, and three exporters, all of whom have chosen to remain anonymous due to the sensitivity…

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a report warning that the number of people with hearing loss in Africa could increase from 40 million to 54 million by 2030 if no immediate action is taken. Presented at the African Summit on Hearing Impairment, the report underscores that hearing loss is both a health and economic issue, costing the continent $27 billion annually. The report details the significant social and economic consequences of untreated hearing loss, which disproportionately affects disadvantaged communities. If not addressed, this health issue is expected to exacerbate existing disparities in healthcare access across the region. In…

The Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) is spearheading a nationwide strike today, October 7, aimed at highlighting critical issues affecting workers, the working class, and marginalized communities throughout South Africa. This protest, aptly titled the “Global Day for Decent Work,” is anticipated to draw significant participation as members take to the streets in response to the severe economic crisis facing the country, characterized by alarming rates of unemployment, pervasive poverty, and deepening inequality. As demonstrators gather, various marches and pickets are planned across multiple cities, showcasing a united front against the challenges workers are currently facing. Cosatu has…

In a pivotal development for its economy, Nigeria has announced it will commence the sale of crude oil in its local currency, the naira, moving away from the traditional reliance on the US dollar for international commodity trading. This strategic decision aligns Nigeria with a growing trend among various countries that have started to adopt local currencies for oil and gas transactions, particularly in response to economic pressures exacerbated by the Russia-Ukraine conflict that began in February 2022. On Sunday, Mohammed Manga, the Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Finance, confirmed that the Federal Executive Council…

In a significant operation against wildlife trafficking, authorities successfully raided a residence in Durbanville, uncovering a collection of highly dangerous snakes, spiders, and birds. This operation was made possible through the joint efforts of CapeNature, the Kuils River Stock Theft Unit, the Environment Department, and the US Fish and Wildlife Service, reflecting a robust collaboration aimed at addressing the serious issue of wildlife crime. Among the confiscated species were three adult Mangshan pit vipers, a critically endangered species that is native to a limited forested mountainous area in southern China. Recent assessments indicate that fewer than 500 individuals of this…

The speaker of Libya’s eastern-based parliament, Aguila Saleh, announced a decision on Sunday to reduce the tax on foreign currency purchases from 27% to 20%. This adjustment, which represents a 7% decrease on the official exchange rate, was confirmed by Abdullah Bliheg, the spokesman for the Libyan House of Representatives. The speaker’s decision outlines that the revenue generated from the new tax rate will be allocated for development project expenses or added to the Central Bank of Libya’s specialized resources to help pay down public debt. This change reflects a strategic shift in how these funds will be utilized, focusing…

Beitbridge is set to undergo a significant transformation as Chinese mining giant Shanxi Corporation commits $3.6 billion to a multi-faceted project aimed at revitalizing the town. The ambitious Palm River mining initiative received official approval from President Emmerson Mnangagwa in 2022, paving the way for construction to commence and signaling a strong commitment to economic development in the region. Situated 20 kilometers west of Beitbridge, the company is now in the first phase of development, focusing on a sprawling 5,000-hectare area designated as a special economic zone. As machinery begins operations, the once-quiet town is experiencing the sounds of construction,…

Tunisia’s presidential election on Sunday saw an unusually low voter turnout, with just 27.7% of eligible voters heading to the polls. This marks a significant decline in participation compared to the country’s previous elections. The election, which is Tunisia’s third since the Arab Spring revolution that ended decades of dictatorship, was closely watched both locally and internationally, with many questioning the health of Tunisia’s young democracy. Exit polls suggest President Kais Saied is poised for a resounding victory, with early figures from public television showing him leading with more than 89% of the vote. His two challengers, both relatively unknown…

On October 5, health officials in the Democratic Republic of Congo launched the country’s inaugural mpox vaccination campaign, a significant and timely move aimed at combating an outbreak that has not only affected the nation but has also spread to numerous other African countries this year. The launch ceremony was held at a hospital in Goma, a key city in the eastern part of the country, where health workers were prioritized as the first recipients of the vaccine doses. This decision underscores the critical role health personnel play in managing public health crises. The Health Ministry has indicated that the…

In October 1995, Tanzania embarked on a transformative journey in its political landscape with the conduct of its first multi-party presidential and parliamentary elections since gaining independence in 1961. This significant event marked a crucial turning point for the nation, transitioning from a long-standing one-party system to a more democratic framework. The shift towards multi-party democracy gained momentum with the Political Parties Act of 1992, which allowed for the establishment of multiple political parties. This crucial legislation dismantled the single-party system and fostered political plurality, setting the stage for greater competition that culminated in the landmark elections on October 29,…

On October 6, 1981, Egypt’s 3rd President, Anwar Sadat, was assassinated during a military parade in Cairo. This event marked a significant turning point in Egyptian and Middle Eastern history, as it underscored the intense opposition to Sadat’s peace initiatives with Israel and highlighted the volatile political climate of the region. Background Anwar Sadat’s presidency was marked by significant political and economic reforms. He succeeded Gamal Abdel Nasser in 1970 and sought to modernize Egypt’s economy and society. However, his most notable achievement was the peace treaty with Israel. Following the 1978 Camp David Accords, Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister…

A deadly cholera outbreak has swept across 33 Nigerian states, including Lagos, claiming at least 359 lives between January and September this year, according to the Nigeria Center for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC). In a recent update in the capital city, Abuja, the NCDC reported that suspected cases of cholera have surged to 10,837 nationwide. Of Nigeria’s 36 states, 33 have reported suspected cases this year. Last week alone, 15 deaths were recorded from 198 new suspected cases in five states, with a case-fatality rate of 7.6 percent. The NCDC urged state governments to bolster their cholera response plans…

Hundreds of Tunisians rallied in the capital on Friday, intensifying protests against President Kais Saied just two days before a presidential election widely seen as manipulated. Protesters accused Saied of eliminating key opponents to secure a victory and tighten his grip on power. Demonstrators carried signs with slogans like “Farce elections” and “Freedoms, not a lifelong presidency,” marching down Habib Bourguiba Avenue, a significant landmark from the 2011 revolution that ended the reign of former President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. Tensions in Tunisia have been mounting after Saied’s electoral commission disqualified three major candidates, prompting accusations of unfair tactics.…

Hundreds of Ghanaians have taken to the streets for a second day on Friday, passionately demanding government intervention to combat illegal mining in the country, which is recognized as Africa’s largest gold producer. Protests began Thursday, with demonstrators holding placards urging the release of their peers who had been arrested during a previous rally. As the protests continued into Friday, participants shifted their focus to the urgent need for action against illegal mining practices, which they claim are causing severe pollution of rivers and degradation of soil across the nation. This alarming environmental crisis has ignited widespread concern among citizens,…

Zimbabwe’s Young Warriors faced a heartbreaking elimination from the 2025 CAF Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations qualification after a gripping 6-5 defeat in a penalty shootout against Zambia in the COSAFA Qualifier semifinals held in Mozambique. The match kicked off with Zambia displaying dominance, particularly in the first half. Mumba Mwale opened the scoring early, finding the back of the net with a powerful shot that soared into the roof of the goal following a crucial deflection. Just 25 minutes into the match, Zambia’s captain, David Simukonda, showcased his leadership by connecting with a precise cross from Emmanuel Mwanza, heading…

President Paul Kagame and First Lady Jeannette Kagame arrived in Paris yesterday to participate in the highly anticipated 19th Summit of La Francophonie, gathering alongside other influential Heads of State and Government from around the globe. The summit, co-hosted by Louise Mushikiwabo, Secretary-General of the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF), and French President Emmanuel Macron, aims to prioritize youth employment, a critical issue facing many countries today. The organizers have indicated that this event will emphasize the significance of creativity, innovation, and the potential for conducting business in the French language, showcasing the importance of language in fostering economic…

A notable conference titled “French Policy of Neocolonialism in Africa” took place on October 3, 2024, in Baku, drawing attention to the enduring effects of French colonialism on the continent. Organized by the Baku Initiative Group (BIG), the event featured a diverse array of speakers who passionately condemned Paris’s ongoing interference in the internal affairs of its former colonies in Africa. The timing of the conference is particularly significant, coinciding with a growing wave of demands from several African nations for increased sovereignty and autonomy in their foreign relations. Countries such as Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali have recently taken…

South Africa is likely to see a sixth straight month of petrol price cuts amid changing fuel market conditions. After five months of reductions, early October data shows significant over-recoveries in fuel prices, suggesting continued relief for consumers. This trend reflects ongoing efforts to ease the financial burden of rising fuel costs on South African households. The Central Energy Fund (CEF) reported an over-recovery of about 82 cents per liter for petrol and 77 cents per litre for diesel in the first week of October. This positive data indicates that November might bring another price cut, continuing the recent downward…

In a significant move towards enhancing climate action, Rwanda and Sweden have entered into a strategic partnership to boost climate finance through the carbon market. This agreement, formally signed by Rwanda’s Ministry of Environment and the Swedish Energy Agency, aims to facilitate the trading of carbon credits, thereby strengthening both countries’ efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and meet their respective climate goals. The carbon market serves as a vital mechanism that allows countries or companies that continue to emit greenhouse gases to invest in green projects located in nations that have successfully reduced their emissions. These reductions are quantified…

Ghana’s health authorities have confirmed the country’s first case of mpox for 2024, although the specific variant involved has not yet been revealed. Health officials are conducting tests to determine whether this case is linked to the clade Ib variant, which has raised significant global concerns due to its rapid transmission and the limited understanding of its characteristics and potential impacts. The patient, described as a young male, is presenting with symptoms that include fever, rash, and body pain, which are typical of mpox infections. In response to the confirmed case, health authorities have identified 25 individuals who had close…

Nigeria is strategically positioning itself to attract up to $10 billion in investments for deep-water gas exploration by implementing a comprehensive set of tax incentives and other measures outlined in a newly approved policy framework. A government official revealed that the framework has been endorsed by the Federal Executive Council and is set to be submitted to the National Assembly for further legislative approval. This innovative policy aims to catalyze growth in Nigeria’s offshore gas sector, where approximately 67% of the nation’s resources remain untapped and underdeveloped. It incorporates tax credits for new investments, as noted by Olu Verheijen, a…

The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially approved its first emergency use diagnostic test for mpox, developed by Abbott Laboratories, to bolster testing efforts in African countries grappling with outbreaks of the disease. Named the Alinity m MPXV assay, this test utilizes real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology to identify mpox virus DNA from samples collected from human skin lesions. It is designed for use by trained clinical laboratory staff, facilitating swift and accurate detection of the virus, as highlighted by the WHO. Yukiko Nakatani, the WHO’s assistant director-general for access to medicines and health products, remarked on the significance…

The Constitutional Court of South Africa is set to hear a pivotal case next month that could revive impeachment proceedings against President Cyril Ramaphosa. This case, initiated by two opposition parties, centers around a scandal involving over $500,000 in cash that was hidden in a couch at Ramaphosa’s Phala Phala game farm and subsequently stolen. In 2022, Ramaphosa successfully dodged an impeachment vote when his party, the African National Congress (ANC), utilized its parliamentary majority to block the motion. This decision came despite an independent report suggesting the need for a thorough investigation into the president’s actions. Since then, the…

Mozambique, a nation deeply scarred by 16 years of civil war, embarked on a hopeful journey towards peace with the signing of the General Peace Accord (GPA) in Rome on October 4, 1992. This landmark agreement, which aimed to end the brutal conflict that had devastated the country, was the result of 12 intense rounds of negotiations between President Joaquim Chissano and RENAMO leader Afonso Dhlakama. The United Nations (UN) played a pivotal role in this transformative process, establishing the United Nations Operation in Mozambique (ONUMOZ) under UN Security Council Resolution 797 to oversee the implementation of the GPA. ONUMOZ’s…

At least 78 people have drowned after a boat carrying 278 passengers capsized on Thursday in Lake Kivu, located in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, provincial authorities have confirmed. The boat was en route to the city of Goma when it overturned, throwing passengers into the water just 700 meters from the shore. The tragic incident unfolded in calm waters, raising further concerns about the conditions on the vessel. Governor Jean Jacques Purisi of South Kivu province reported that 78 bodies had been recovered so far, but he cautioned that the final death toll could rise as rescue efforts…

Mozambique is set to hold its presidential and parliamentary elections on October 9, marking the end of President Filipe Nyusi’s two-term administration. This electoral event is especially significant as it takes place against the backdrop of a protracted conflict in the Cabo Delgado province, where government forces are engaged in a fierce battle against militants linked to the Islamic State. The violence in this resource-rich region has severely impacted the local economy and security, particularly following a major attack in 2021 that forced TotalEnergies to suspend its ambitious $20 billion liquefied natural gas project, which was anticipated to bring substantial…

The Lagos State Government has secured a €120 million financial commitment from the Dutch Government to support its waste-to-energy project, which aims to convert waste into electricity. This initiative is being executed in collaboration with Dutch firm, Harvest Waste Consortium, according to the state’s Commissioner for The Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab. Wahab made the announcement on Wednesday through his official post on X, detailing that the project will use the decommissioned Epe landfill to process between 2,500 to 3,000 tons of waste daily from the 13,000 to 14,000 tons generated across Lagos. This initiative is part of a…

The United Kingdom has officially announced the transfer of sovereignty over the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, a landmark decision that facilitates the return of individuals displaced decades ago while maintaining the operational status of the critical military base on Diego Garcia. This agreement ensures the strategic airbase, which is co-managed with the United States, will continue to function effectively, allowing Mauritius to resettle its islands after the local population was forcibly removed in the 1970s. U.S. President Joe Biden expressed his support for the deal, emphasizing that it would secure the effective operation of Diego Garcia into the next century.…

On Thursday, the Moroccan government unveiled a significant initiative to allocate 2.5 billion dirhams (approximately $260 million) aimed at providing comprehensive flood relief. This plan seeks to address the urgent needs stemming from recent natural disasters by focusing on reconstruction support, infrastructure improvements, and assistance for farmers adversely affected by the floods. Last month, severe flooding devastated several villages in the southeast region of Morocco, leading to the tragic loss of at least 28 lives and causing extensive damage to roads and local infrastructure. In response to this crisis, the government has committed to offering financial assistance of 80,000 dirhams…

Rwanda is gearing up to start clinical trials for vaccines and treatments aimed at combating Marburg disease in the coming weeks. This announcement follows the country’s first outbreak of the viral illness, which has led to 11 confirmed deaths. Health authorities detected the disease in late September, with 36 cases reported so far. During a press briefing, Health Minister Sabin Nsanzimana stated that these trials are part of the government’s commitment to provide effective solutions for those affected. “Our goal is to ensure rapid recovery by utilizing vaccines and treatments specifically designed for this outbreak, which is now in the…

As the number of women and children leaving Karamoja for urban areas continues to rise, the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) is calling for increased protections for their rights. During a training session on October 2, 2024, in Moroto, UHRC officials emphasized the need for stakeholders to adopt a human rights-based approach to address the challenges these vulnerable migrants face. Many of these individuals are fleeing poverty, food insecurity, cattle raids, and escalating gun violence in their region. Paul Piramoe, the Regional Human Rights Officer for Karamoja, warned that human traffickers are taking advantage of the situation, preying on women…

France’s Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau has directed authorities in the French overseas department of Mayotte to initiate deportation flights for migrants from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as part of a broader strategy to combat illegal immigration to the island, located off the east coast of Africa. Beginning in October, the police chief of Mayotte will oversee the organization of group flights to return illegal immigrants to the DRC. Retailleau, who has emphasized the need to “restore order,” shared these plans during a recent address to the French parliament. A spokesperson for Retailleau’s team indicated that four deportation flights…

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has submitted recommendations to the National Assembly, urging constitutional amendments that would establish a single six-year term for the president and governors. He also suggested that the presidency rotate between Nigeria’s northern and southern regions. In his submission to the Senate Committee on Constitutional Review, Atiku reaffirmed his support for the six-year term, a concept he promoted during his time as vice president under President Olusegun Obasanjo. After the 2023 elections, he reiterated this proposal, advocating that “the presidency should rotate among the six geopolitical zones, with each zone serving a single six-year term.” Atiku…

President Yoweri Museveni has urged African Chief Justices to recognize the significant role that economic prosperity plays in the effective administration of justice. While speaking at the Southern and Eastern Chief Justices’ Forum (SEACJF) at Speke Resort Munyonyo, Kampala, Museveni stressed the importance of economic growth in enabling justice systems to function more efficiently. “If the country’s economy is growing and creating prosperity, it becomes easier to address issues of justice,” he remarked, pointing out that justice, while possible under economic strain, is notably more manageable when a nation is financially stable. He further explained that a prosperous state not…

The launch of the much-anticipated mpox vaccination campaign in the Democratic Republic of Congo has been postponed due to logistical challenges, as confirmed by health officials on Wednesday. Chris Kasita, director of the Department of Infection Prevention (PEV), emphasized the need for specialized transportation equipment required to distribute the vaccine across various regions of the country. “We are facing issues with logistics, but authorities are working diligently to ensure that the vaccine is delivered on time. We will announce a new start date as soon as possible,” Kasita stated. The delay comes amid a concerning surge in mpox cases in…

Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Wednesday pledged to introduce measures aimed at stabilizing the country’s gold-backed currency, ZiG, after it significantly declined on the black market just five months after its introduction. The currency was devalued by 43% last Friday, following a 47% loss on the parallel market. Addressing parliament, Mnangagwa expressed concern over the resurgence of speculative trading in the parallel market, which has contributed to the currency’s instability. Since its devaluation, the ZiG fell further from 24.3902 on Friday to 25.2824 by Wednesday, with the black market rate hitting 32 per U.S. dollar. Mnangagwa emphasized that the devaluation…

The Tuareg rebellion in Niger, which began in the early 1990s, marks a significant chapter in the region’s history. This uprising was driven by the Tuareg people’s demand for greater political autonomy and development for their traditionally marginalized regions. Historical Context The Tuareg people, a nomadic Berber ethnic group, have long inhabited the Saharan regions of Niger, Mali, and Algeria. Historically, they have faced political and economic marginalization, exacerbated by severe droughts in the 1970s and 1980s. These droughts devastated their pastoral lifestyle, leading to widespread displacement and economic hardship. The Tuareg’s grievances were rooted in the colonial and post-colonial…

Willie Walsh, Director General of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), emphasized the vital role of Morocco’s aviation sector in driving economic growth during his remarks at the Worldwide Aviation Safety Conference (WSOC) on Tuesday. The conference, which runs until October 3, is being held in Marrakech. Walsh highlighted the ambitious development plans of Royal Air Maroc (RAM) and the National Airports Office (ONDA), stating that these initiatives are crucial for establishing Morocco as a central hub connecting Africa with Europe and North America. “The country’s forward-looking strategies are setting the stage for a prosperous future in aviation,” Walsh noted,…

Uganda has officially launched a state-owned mining company designed to manage the government’s equity stakes in various mining operations across the country. This significant development was announced by Ruth Nankabirwa, the Minister for Energy and Mineral Development, who highlighted the government’s commitment to playing a more active role in the mining sector. Historically, mining activities in Uganda have been predominantly carried out by private firms that have obtained necessary exploration and mining licenses from the government. However, a transformative mining law passed in 2022 now empowers the government to compulsorily acquire a 15% free carry stake in all mining ventures.…

The Maldives has officially intervened in the ongoing genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), citing alleged atrocities committed in the Gaza Strip. President Mohamed Muizzu announced this development on X, stating that the intervention aligns with South Africa’s application under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, as detailed in Article 63 of the ICJ Statute. “Israel must be held accountable for its unlawful acts in Gaza. The rule of law must be upheld, and Israel must cease its genocidal actions against the Palestinian people,” President Muizzu emphasized. He reiterated…

Makerere University is celebrating a momentous occasion today October 2, as it officially reopens its iconic main administration building, affectionately known as the ‘Ivory Tower,’ nearly four years after a devastating fire inflicted significant damage on this historical structure. The ‘Ivory Tower,’ an enduring symbol of Makerere University and a prominent feature of its Kampala campus, has long been recognized as a beacon of educational excellence and national pride. The building suffered severe damage in a fire that broke out in 2020, sparking immediate concerns about the loss of such an integral part of the university’s identity. In response, the…

The ruling party in Ivory Coast has expressed its support for President Alassane Ouattara to run for a fourth term in the upcoming 2025 elections, increasing the likelihood that the 82-year-old will seek re-election. While Ouattara, who was re-elected for a contested third term in 2020, has mentioned a desire to step down, he has also indicated that he would need former opponents to agree to withdraw from politics as well. Recently, senior officials from Ouattara’s party, the Rally of Houphouëtists for Democracy and Peace (RHDP), passed a resolution affirming their commitment to ensuring that the RHDP, under Ouattara’s leadership,…

In a bold move to revitalize its economy, South Africa aims for a 3.3% GDP growth by the close of 2025, with the objective of generating millions of new jobs by 2029. Achieving this goal will depend on the effective implementation of comprehensive reforms, operational enhancements at crucial state-owned entities, and the rapid mobilization of private sector investments. This optimistic vision was articulated by President Cyril Ramaphosa, various ministers, and some of the country’s leading CEOs during the launch of Phase 2 of the Government Business Partnership at the Industrial Development Corporation on October 1. Economic Context and Growth Projections…

Nigerians took to the streets on Tuesday, marking the country’s 64th independence anniversary with widespread protests over worsening economic conditions. Demonstrators rallied against soaring inflation, rising fuel costs, and government reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu, which have placed additional strain on the population. Many Nigerians are frustrated by the economic situation, which has seen living costs escalate sharply in recent months. This protest follows a similar demonstration in August, where at least 20 protesters were killed by security forces. Although turnout on Tuesday was smaller, the frustration remained evident as demonstrators in the capital city of Abuja faced tear…

Two boats carrying migrants sank off the coast of Djibouti in the Red Sea, resulting in the deaths of 45 people, the U.N. migration agency confirmed on Tuesday. The vessels had departed from Yemen, carrying a total of 310 migrants, before capsizing near the Khor Angar region, approximately 150 meters from the shoreline, according to Djibouti’s coast guard. Rescue efforts, which began early Monday, are ongoing. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) stated that 32 survivors have been pulled from the water, while Djibouti’s coast guard reported 115 individuals were rescued. The IOM, involved in the search and rescue mission,…

In his nationwide address marking Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day, President Bola Tinubu unveiled a significant initiative aimed at combating unemployment and underemployment across the country. The Renewed Hope Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme (LEEP), set to launch in October, will focus on generating 2.5 million jobs annually. This comprehensive programme, overseen by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, seeks to create jobs both directly and indirectly while prioritizing the welfare and safety of Nigerian workers. In addition to the LEEP initiative, President Tinubu highlighted several other youth-focused programmes. These include a student loan scheme designed to offer affordable financial…

In a concerted effort to combat transnational crime, officials from Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda are meeting for the fourth time in less than two years to devise more effective strategies for addressing a range of criminal activities that threaten the Lake Victoria area. This collaborative initiative aims to tackle serious issues, including illegal fishing, deforestation, charcoal production, and drug trafficking, all of which are exacerbated by the region’s porous borders that criminals exploit for illicit trade. During a press conference held in the coastal city of Mombasa, Raymond Omollo, Principal Secretary in Kenya’s Interior Ministry, outlined the objectives of the…

Zambia is set to host the highly anticipated Digital Government Africa Summit later this week, with President Hakainde Hichilema scheduled to officially inaugurate the event. This marks the second consecutive year that Zambia has organized this prestigious gathering, which will attract over 500 delegates from 33 African nations. The summit aims to explore the crucial role of digital transformation in advancing governance, enhancing public services, and fostering economic growth across the continent. Home Affairs and Internal Security Minister Jack Mwiimbu emphasized the summit’s significance, stating that it provides a vital platform for African governments to connect and collaborate. He noted…

October 1, 2024, marks a momentous occasion for Nigeria as the nation celebrates its 64th Independence Day. This significant day not only commemorates Nigeria’s liberation from British colonial rule in 1960 but also symbolizes the enduring spirit of a nation striving for self-governance and national development. As Nigerians come together to observe this historic day, it serves as a time for reflection on the past, celebration of achievements, and a renewed commitment to the future of the nation. Historical Context: The Path to Independence The journey to independence for Nigeria is steeped in historical significance, marked by a series of critical events and…

President Bola Tinubu announced on Tuesday that the long-anticipated approval of Exxon Mobil Corp’s $1.28 billion sale of its onshore assets to Seplat Energy is expected within days, following regulatory clearance. This deal, which was first unveiled in 2022, has garnered substantial attention from industry observers, who view it as a potential catalyst for similar transactions, such as Shell’s recent asset sale to Renaissance. In his televised address to commemorate Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day, Tinubu emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment while upholding the country’s regulatory standards. “The ExxonMobil-Seplat divestment will receive ministerial approval in a matter…

Tunisian politician Ayachi Zammel has been sentenced to 12 years in prison ahead of the presidential election scheduled for October 6, according to his lawyer. This ruling comes just five days before the election and marks the third prison sentence imposed on Zammel in a span of two weeks, raising significant questions about the judicial process in Tunisia during this critical period. Lawyer Abdessater Messoudi revealed that the court in Tunis found Zammel guilty in four separate cases related to fraudulent voter endorsements and document falsification. Despite this significant sentence, Messoudi confirmed that Zammel intends to continue his candidacy in…

Samuel Eto’o, the legendary Cameroonian soccer star, has received a six-month ban from FIFA, prohibiting him from attending any matches involving the national teams. This suspension, announced on Monday, arises from two charges linked to an incident that occurred during the Under-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia on September 11. FIFA has not disclosed specific details regarding the incident that took place during the round of 16 match, where Brazil triumphed over Cameroon 3-1 in extra time. However, the governing body has cited Eto’o for engaging in “offensive behavior and breaches of the principles of fair play,” along with misconduct…

Rebels in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo are reportedly profiting by up to $300,000 a month through taxation in the Rubaya coltan-mining region, according to a report presented by the United Nations to the Security Council on Monday. The M23 rebel group, a Tutsi-led movement that is believed to receive support from Rwanda, captured this key mining area in April after a series of intense battles. The Rubaya region is particularly significant due to its production of minerals essential for manufacturing electronics such as smartphones and computers. During the briefing, Bintou Keita, head of the U.N. mission in Congo,…

Burkina Faso’s Foreign Minister, Karamoko Jean Marie Traore, addressed the UN General Assembly’s High-Level Debate in New York on Monday, delivering a powerful message regarding the country’s ongoing fight against terrorism. In his speech, Traore reported that Burkina Faso’s government forces now control approximately 70% of the nation’s territory, a significant improvement from the 40% control reported in 2022. This increase highlights the government’s commitment to restoring security in a region plagued by extremist threats, particularly in the northeast. Traore also condemned what he described as misleading narratives and propaganda aimed at the Burkinabe Defence Forces. He expressed strong support…

Botswana’s High Court has officially confirmed four candidates for the upcoming presidential election in October, with President Mokgweetsi Masisi seeking a second term in office. The court’s decision follows a mandatory review process where candidates must prove they have the necessary number of supporters. In addition to Masisi, the confirmed candidates include Duma Boko of the Umbrella for Democratic Change (UDC), Dumelang Saleshando representing the Botswana Congress Party (BCP), and Mephato Reatile from the Botswana Patriotic Front (BPF). Chief Justice Terrence Rannowane confirmed that Biggie Butale of the Botswana Republican Party failed to meet the necessary requirements. Following the nomination…

Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi has urged the Rapid Intervention Unit (UIR) to enhance its strategies in response to the ongoing violent insurgency in Cabo Delgado, a province in the northern part of the country. At the inauguration of the UIR’s new headquarters in Cabo Delgado, Nyusi highlighted the importance of the unit maintaining high standards of professionalism, integrity, and discipline. He stressed that these qualities are crucial for fostering trust and confidence among the local community and ensuring effective collaboration with fellow law enforcement officers. The new headquarters spans 160 hectares and includes three barracks, residences for officers and generals,…

In a significant development for Libya’s economic landscape, the eastern-based parliament has officially appointed Naji Mohamed Issa Belqasem as the new governor of the central bank. During a televised session, Mari Muftah Rahil Barrasi was also confirmed as the deputy governor. The decision follows a recent U.N.-mediated meeting aimed at resolving the country’s ongoing crisis, which has severely affected its oil production and broader economic stability. Belqasem’s appointment is seen as a pivotal step, given his extensive experience within the central bank, where he previously held the position of director of banking and monetary control. His in-depth knowledge of the…