Author: WAJ Team

The Africa Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG), a key intergovernmental organization dedicated to fostering international cooperation in the mining sector, has officially joined the Council for Critical Minerals Development in the Global South. This Council, spearheaded by Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL), the Institute of Transportation Studies at UC Davis, and Swaniti Global, is focused on empowering African and other mineral-rich nations to secure funding and enhance technical capacities necessary for improving their mining value chains, creating job opportunities, and driving industrial growth. Damilola Ogunbiyi, the CEO and Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for SEforALL, highlighted the significance of this…

Equatorial Guinea on Monday urged judges at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to reject Gabon’s claim over several islands in the Gulf of Guinea, a region believed to be rich in oil reserves. The two African nations, both significant oil producers, have sought the court’s intervention to resolve their dispute over the tiny island of Mbanié, situated less than a kilometer off Gabon’s coast. Equatorial Guinea’s representative, Domingo Mba Esono, stated that Gabon’s claim was “factually and legally untenable.” The dispute dates back to 1972 when Gabon’s military forces removed Equatorial Guinea’s troops from the island. Gabon has since…

Abu Dhabi’s International Resources Holding (IRH) has signed a landmark agreement with South Africa’s Public Investment Corporation (PIC) to invest in crucial rail infrastructure and green energy projects, aiming to drive economic growth and sustainable development in the region. The collaboration, announced on Monday, will not only enhance South Africa’s logistics capabilities but also support the country’s transition from coal-powered energy to cleaner, renewable sources. IRH, a subsidiary of the United Arab Emirates’ wealthiest company, International Holding Company (IHC.AD), brings its expertise to Africa’s largest asset manager, PIC, which oversees assets worth 2.89 trillion rand ($169 billion) in key sectors…

A heartbreaking incident occurred off the coast of Djerba, Tunisia, on Monday, as a boat carrying migrants capsized during its attempt to cross the Mediterranean Sea to reach Europe. At least 12 individuals, including three infants, lost their lives in this tragic event, and 10 others are currently reported missing. The vessel was heavily overcrowded, reflecting the desperate circumstances faced by those onboard. In response to the emergency, the Tunisian coast guard intervened and successfully rescued 29 people from the water. The survivors were among the many who sought to escape their current situations in pursuit of a better life…

Nigeria’s U19 women’s cricket team made a significant mark by securing their place in the 2025 ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup in Malaysia after the final match at Gahanga Cricket Stadium was called off due to heavy rain. This unexpected outcome awarded Nigeria the victory based on their impressive performance throughout the tournament, where they earned the highest points in the group stages. As per the tournament regulations, if a knockout match is abandoned, the team with the most points from the group stage is declared the winner. Nigeria demonstrated exceptional skill and determination, winning four consecutive matches leading…

In a significant move to bolster Nigeria’s developmental efforts, the World Bank has approved a financing package totaling $1.57 billion, aimed primarily at enhancing the country’s health and education sectors while also promoting sustainable energy initiatives. This decision underscores the World Bank’s commitment to supporting Nigeria, which remains its largest borrower, with outstanding loans exceeding $15 billion as of March, as reported by the Debt Management Office. The funding will play a crucial role in improving access to and the quality of basic education and primary healthcare services across the nation. A key component of the package is a $500…

Nigeria is poised for significant protests on Tuesday as citizens mobilize to express their anger over the escalating cost of living crisis. Dubbed “Fearless October 1,” these demonstrations are deliberately timed to align with the nation’s 64th independence anniversary, highlighting the discontent surrounding economic issues that have persisted for years. Organizers have confirmed that rallies will occur in key locations, including the capital city of Abuja, the bustling commercial hub of Lagos, and various provincial capitals throughout the West African country. These gatherings are expected to draw large crowds, reflecting widespread frustration with the government’s handling of economic challenges. The…

Bobi Wine, known as Robert Kyagulanyi, has officially announced his candidacy for the presidency in Uganda’s upcoming elections set for January 12, 2026. This declaration was made during an interview on Sunday, marking a significant moment in his political career as he seeks to challenge the current regime. In the previous elections held in 2021, President Yoweri Museveni of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) claimed victory with over 58% of the votes. Bobi Wine, representing the National Unity Platform (NUP), received more than 35%, showcasing his growing influence and the desire for change among voters. Recently, Museveni accused the NUP…

Six people have lost their lives in Rwanda due to the Marburg virus outbreak, with most victims being healthcare workers in an intensive care unit, according to Health Minister Sabin Nsanzimana. Since the outbreak was declared on Friday, 20 cases have been confirmed. The Marburg virus, which is related to Ebola, has a fatality rate as high as 88%. It spreads to humans from fruit bats and is transmitted through contact with the bodily fluids of infected individuals. Cases have been reported in several districts, with some patients currently isolated and receiving treatment. Authorities have identified and are monitoring dozens…

The Tunisian Embassy in Lebanon has confirmed the organization of a repatriation flight on October 1, 2024, to evacuate Tunisian nationals affected by the ongoing crisis. Tunisair will provide a special aircraft with a capacity of 260 seats, while the embassy has received 404 booking requests for the flight. Priority for the flight will be given to students, displaced individuals, Tunisians residing in high-risk areas, those without family support, and those with urgent health needs. The embassy is currently contacting selected passengers with travel details and procedures. This repatriation effort is part of Tunisia’s broader response to protect its citizens…

Marburg virus disease (MVD) is a severe illness characterized by hemorrhagic fever, with a fatality rate that can reach up to 88%. This virus belongs to the same family as the Ebola virus. The disease was first identified in 1967 during simultaneous outbreaks in Marburg and Frankfurt, Germany, and Belgrade, Serbia. These outbreaks were linked to laboratory work involving African green monkeys (Cercopithecus aethiops) imported from Uganda. Since then, additional outbreaks and sporadic cases have been reported in countries including Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, South Africa (in a person with a recent travel history to Zimbabwe),…

On September 28, 1995, the Comoros Islands experienced a dramatic and tumultuous event when a group of soldiers, led by French mercenary Bob Denard, seized power in a coup d’état. This incident marked a significant chapter in the islands’ complex political history, reflecting the interplay between local governance, foreign intervention, and the influence of mercenaries. Background: A Legacy of Political Turmoil The Comoros Islands, a former French colony located in the Indian Ocean, gained independence in 1975, but their post-independence journey has been fraught with political instability and economic challenges. With a population of around 550,000, the islands’ economy is…

Rwanda has confirmed its first cases of Marburg disease, a severe viral hemorrhagic fever characterized by a high mortality rate, as stated by the country’s health ministry on Friday. This announcement has raised alarms given the virus’s potential for rapid spread and the severe health implications it poses. In response to these cases, the health ministry is actively investigating the source of the infection, which is crucial for controlling any potential outbreak. The affected individuals have been isolated for treatment to prevent further transmission and to provide them with the necessary medical care. Although specific case numbers were not disclosed,…

The East African Court of Justice has officially begun hearings in a significant case filed by the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) against Rwanda, accusing the neighboring nation of undermining Congo’s sovereignty and sending troops to back rebel groups in the country’s troubled eastern region. This area has long been plagued by conflict, where over 120 armed factions are engaged in battles for control over land, political influence, and precious minerals. Among these groups, the M23 rebel faction stands as one of the most powerful, with the DRC, along with the United States and France, accusing Rwanda of providing military…

The Government of Uganda inaugurated the Karuma Hydropower Project (KHP), a landmark 600 MW facility situated on the banks of the River Nile. This ambitious project is poised to be the largest power generation facility in Uganda’s history, significantly enhancing the country’s energy capacity. The KHP, valued at $1.7 billion, is being constructed by Sinohydro Corporation, a leading Chinese hydropower company, and is fully financed by China. The financing structure comprises a substantial $1.4 billion loan from China’s Exim Bank, while the Chinese government covers the remaining costs. This partnership underscores the growing economic ties between Uganda and China, particularly…

Tunisia’s parliament is set to vote on a significant amendment to the electoral law on Friday, just nine days before the presidential election, raising concerns among opposition groups regarding the potential strengthening of President Kais Saied’s authoritarian rule. The proposed bill aims to strip the Administrative Court of its authority to resolve electoral disputes, which critics argue could undermine the election’s integrity. The amendment is likely to pass in an assembly that was elected in 2022 with only an 11% voter turnout, following Saied’s dissolution of the previous parliament and the subsequent boycott by opposition parties. Civil society and political…

In a landmark effort to enhance sustainable energy access, Madagascar has officially launched a new bioethanol initiative in collaboration with Africa50, the African Development Bank (AfDB), and the OPEC Fund for International Development. The partners signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) aimed at significantly increasing bioethanol production while improving access to clean cooking fuels across the nation, particularly in remote and underserved regions. This initiative is a critical response to the pressing need to reduce reliance on high-polluting fossil fuels, which pose serious health risks and contribute to environmental degradation. By promoting bioethanol as a cleaner alternative, the project seeks…

Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) has finalized concession agreements with the governments of Angola and Zambia, marking a significant step toward the development of the Zambia Lobito Rail Project. This ambitious initiative will involve the financing, construction, ownership, and operation of an 800-kilometer greenfield rail link designed to connect Zambia’s railway network with Angola’s Benguela rail line. The new rail corridor is expected to provide the most direct and efficient route for imports and exports, facilitating trade between Zambia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The Zambia Lobito Rail Project aims to enhance connectivity between vital mining regions, agricultural…

Imam Abdullah Haron was a prominent figure in the fight against apartheid in South Africa, known for his unwavering commitment to justice and equality. His life, marked by activism and sacrifice, serves as a powerful testament to the struggle for freedom and human rights. From his early days in Cape Town to his tragic martyrdom, Haron’s legacy continues to inspire future generations to resist oppression and strive for social justice. Early Life and Education Abdullah Haron (1924–1969) was born and raised in Cape Town, South Africa. He attended a Muslim school there and spent two years in his youth as…

In a significant initiative, several African nations are in discussions to establish a joint “debt-for-nature” swap that could potentially raise over $2 billion for the conservation of coral ecosystems in the Indian Ocean. This collaborative effort seeks to provide a sustainable financing solution for environmental protection, a pressing need for many developing nations. Debt-for-nature swaps allow countries to convert existing debt into more manageable terms, directing the financial savings towards conservation projects. While previous swaps have been implemented in countries like Ecuador, Barbados, and Seychelles, this would mark the first instance of multiple countries participating in a single swap aimed…

Senegal’s sovereign dollar bonds took a hit on Friday after a government audit unveiled significantly larger debt and deficit figures than previously reported by the former administration, sparking investor concern. Tradeweb data showed the bonds maturing in 2033 fell by 2.3 cents, landing at a bid price of 84.54 cents on the dollar by 0720 GMT, while the 2048 bonds saw a sharper drop of 2.42 cents. The decline reflects market apprehension following the release of the audit’s findings. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) responded to the news, confirming that the Senegalese government had shared initial results from the audit.…

The Central African subregion, prominently featuring the expansive Congo Basin, is recognized for housing one of the world’s largest and most vital tropical rainforest ecosystems. This region is not only a sanctuary for a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna but also plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and providing essential ecosystem services that benefit both local and global communities. Importance of Central African Forests The forests of Central Africa are integral to the planet’s health, serving as significant carbon sinks. The 2021 State of the Forests (SOF) report released by the Central Africa Forest Observatory (OFAC) highlights…

Civil society organizations in Egypt and around the world are actively advocating for the release of Alaa Abd el-Fattah, a well-known activist, after his lawyer disclosed that he would remain in detention until 2027. Abd el-Fattah, who holds both Egyptian and British citizenship, is a software developer and blogger who has been imprisoned since 2019, with this coming Sunday marking five years since his most recent arrest. In 2021, he was sentenced to five years in prison for allegedly spreading false information through a social media post. His lawyer has indicated that the authorities do not plan to count the…

In a noteworthy diplomatic meeting on Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted Equatorial Guinean President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo at the Kremlin to explore avenues for enhancing bilateral relations between their countries. During their discussions, Putin conveyed a positive outlook regarding the reopening of diplomatic missions, suggesting it would serve as a catalyst for deepening cooperation between Russia and Equatorial Guinea. “We possess substantial potential for advancing our economic partnership,” he remarked. “Our collaboration also extends to humanitarian efforts, particularly in training personnel from your country, and we are committed to continuing this work. Additionally, we see promising opportunities in…

Morocco clinched a narrow 4-3 victory over Iran in a dramatic Round of 16 match at the 2024 Futsal World Cup in Uzbekistan. Both teams delivered a fierce and high-energy contest, with Morocco ultimately advancing to the next stage. The action began early, with Iran taking the lead just four minutes into the game through a goal from Mohammad Hossein Derakhshani. Morocco quickly retaliated, equalizing in the 7th minute courtesy of Khalid Bouzid, followed by an Iranian own goal in the 11th minute, giving Morocco a 2-1 advantage. Despite Bouzid being sidelined by injury mid-game, Morocco maintained momentum. Soufiane El…

In a significant diplomatic engagement on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York, the Foreign Ministers of Ethiopia, Uganda, and Rwanda convened to discuss strategies for the fair and equitable utilization of the Nile River’s water resources and the effective implementation of the Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA). This gathering highlight the countries’ commitment to addressing shared challenges related to water management in a region heavily reliant on the Nile. Ethiopian Foreign Minister Taye Atske Selassie initiated separate discussions with Rwanda’s Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe and Uganda’s Foreign Minister Jeje Odongo. During his meeting with Minister…

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has officially approved a 40-month arrangement for Liberia under the Extended Credit Facility (ECF), totaling approximately SDR155 million, equivalent to around $210 million. This decision, announced mid-week, includes an initial disbursement of about SDR4.3 million (roughly $5.8 million) aimed at addressing Liberia’s immediate balance of payments needs, which have been exacerbated by substantial development gaps. The IMF stated that this financial assistance is designed to support the Liberian government’s efforts to implement critical reforms that tackle macroeconomic imbalances and promote growth driven by the private sector beyond the natural resources sector. The ECF arrangement encompasses…

The late 19th and early 20th centuries marked a transformative era for West Africa as European powers intensified their imperial pursuits across the continent. At the heart of this struggle was the Ashanti Kingdom, a formidable empire located in present-day Ghana, renowned for its wealth, military strength, and vibrant cultural heritage. The Ashanti engaged in a series of conflicts with the British, who aimed to dominate the region and exploit its abundant gold resources. This article examines the historical backdrop of the Ashanti Kingdom, the Anglo-Ashanti Wars that led to British control, and the profound impacts of colonial rule on…

Rwanda and Singapore have unveiled a groundbreaking AI Playbook designed specifically for small states during the United Nations Summit of the Future in New York City. This innovative initiative aims to guide nations in navigating the complexities of artificial intelligence governance and implementation, positioning them as leaders in the global conversation on AI policy. The announcement was made by Singapore’s Minister for Digital Development and Information, Josephine Teo, who emphasized the importance of collective knowledge in leveraging AI effectively. The Playbook consolidates best practices from the Digital Forum of Small States (Digital FOSS2), showcasing how member nations have crafted and…

Prosecutors in the military-led governments of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have initiated investigations against French journalist and researcher Wassim Nasr. He faces accusations of being an “apologist for terrorism” due to his analytical work on violent attacks in the Sahel region. The military authorities have charged Nasr with criminal association and complicity in acts of terrorism, claiming that his detailed examination of a recent attack in Bamako on September 17, which resulted in over 70 fatalities, constitutes “blatant acts of publicity and support” for violent activities. The investigations also reference another attack on November 26, 2023, in Djibo, northern…

South Africa has officially repatriated the remains of 42 freedom fighters who lost their lives in exile during the apartheid era, particularly in neighboring Zimbabwe and Zambia. The ceremonial welcome took place at Waterkloof Air Force Base, drawing attendance from government officials, family members, and members of the public, marking a significant milestone in the country’s journey of honoring its liberation heroes. These freedom fighters, who had been buried in foreign lands decades ago, will now be reinterred in their native soil, symbolizing a long-awaited homecoming. Many of these individuals fled South Africa during the oppressive apartheid regime, seeking refuge…

A recent study has raised serious alarms regarding the future of hooded vultures in Ghana and South Africa, highlighting significant inbreeding rates that could threaten their survival. The research indicates that both countries, despite their differing population sizes, share similar risks stemming from low genetic diversity, emphasizing an urgent need for conservation efforts to combat hunting and habitat loss. Researchers collected molted feathers from hooded vulture nests in Ghana, where the species is classified as critically endangered due to steep population declines, although it remains relatively common in some regions. In South Africa, however, the situation is dire, with estimates…

As the Democratic Republic of Congo gears up for critical elections, tensions between the government and opposition parties have reached a boiling point. Protesters are increasingly voicing their demands for the release of political prisoners, highlighting widespread concerns over political repression and diminishing freedoms in the country. Growing Tensions Ahead of Critical Elections Hundreds of protesters assembled outside the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Supreme Court mid-week, demanding the release of political prisoners, including three prominent opposition figures who have become symbols of the government’s crackdown on dissent. The demonstration underscored increasing tensions between opposition parties and President Felix Tshisekedi’s administration,…

Benin’s government announced on Wednesday evening that it had successfully thwarted a coup attempt, resulting in the arrests of several high-profile individuals, including Republican Guard Commander Djimon Dieudonne Trvoedjre, former Sports Minister Oswald Homeky, and businessman Olivier Boko. All three are accused of conspiring to overthrow the democratic government, raising significant concerns about political stability in the West African nation. During a press conference held in the capital, Porto-Novo, Elonm Mario Metonou, prosecutor for the Court for the Repression of Economic Offences and Terrorism (CRIET), provided crucial details regarding the attempted coup. He revealed that the first major action related…

A Tunisian court has sentenced presidential candidate Ayachi Zammel to six months in prison on charges of falsifying documents, just days before the country’s presidential election. This latest sentence follows another ruling from the previous week, in which Zammel was sentenced to 20 months in prison for allegedly falsifying public endorsements. The back-to-back rulings have escalated tensions in Tunisia, with many in the opposition and civil society fearing that the election process may be rigged to favor the current president, Kais Saied. These groups have expressed concerns that the judicial actions against Zammel are politically motivated, aimed at weakening his…

On September 25, Mozambique proudly celebrates Armed Forces Day, also known as Revolution Day, honoring the courageous inception of the War of Independence in 1964. This significant occasion pays tribute to the brave guerrilla forces that stood against Portuguese colonial rule, reflecting the nation’s resilience and unwavering determination in the pursuit of freedom. Historical Context The roots of Mozambique’s struggle for independence date back to the early 16th century when Portugal began its colonization efforts, establishing trading posts in the region. By the mid-18th century, these territories were recognized as the Portuguese colony of Portuguese East Africa. As other European…

In a dramatic move, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has suspended three high-ranking judges amid allegations of judicial misconduct, a decision that has ignited widespread concerns regarding political interference within the judiciary. The judges—Justice Annie Sitali, Justice Mungeni Mulenga, and Justice Palan Mulonda—were previously involved in key rulings against Hichilema, including the dismissal of his 2016 petition contesting former President Edgar Lungu’s election victory. They also participated in a controversial decision allowing Lungu to run in the 2021 elections, despite his prior two terms in office. The suspension comes at a critical time as Zambia approaches the 2026 elections, where Hichilema…

South Africa is currently engaged in advanced discussions with Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer regarding the potential purchase of the C-390 Millennium, a versatile military cargo aircraft. This development comes after the aircraft was showcased in South Africa for the second time, highlighting the nation’s ongoing efforts to modernize its defense capabilities and enhance operational efficiency. Embraer announced its optimism about the negotiations, emphasizing that South African authorities are actively taking steps to select the C-390 as a crucial asset for the National Defense Force. The South African government has recognized the pressing need for modern aircraft to replace its aging…

Ghana is bracing for a nationwide lockdown on Monday, September 30, as civil servants and labor unions ramp up protests against the widespread illegal mining, locally known as Galamsey. The unchecked mining has caused severe environmental damage, prompting urgent demands for government intervention, including declaring a state of emergency in affected regions and revoking mining licenses. The Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) warns of worsening water shortages, revealing that 60% of the country’s major water bodies are now polluted. GWCL also reports that water treatment plants are struggling, with turbidity levels soaring to 14,000 NTU, far beyond the 2,000 NTU…

The South African rand experienced a significant rally on Wednesday, reaching a new 20-month high against the U.S. dollar, a milestone that reflects increasing market confidence. As of 0810 GMT, the rand was trading at 17.22 per dollar, marking a 0.3% increase from the previous day’s closing value. This surge represents the strongest position for the currency since early February 2023, indicating a robust turnaround. Market analysts attribute this impressive performance of the rand to the positive sentiment generated by recent interest rate cuts from both the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) and the U.S. Federal Reserve. These moves have…

In a crucial development for the mining sector, the governor of South Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of Congo has announced the approval for all mining activities to resume in the region. This decision comes with a firm commitment to continue comprehensive investigations into the industry to ensure adherence to legal and ethical standards. The mining operations in South Kivu faced a significant halt in July when Governor Jean-Jacques Purusi Sadiki mandated a complete suspension of activities. This measure aimed to restore order in an area rich in minerals such as gold, copper, diamonds, tin, tantalum, and cobalt. Authorities…

Eben Etzebeth Poised to Break Springbok Cap Record in Crucial Match Against Argentina Eben Etzebeth is on the verge of making history as he is set to become the most-capped player for South Africa after being named in the Springboks’ starting lineup for their upcoming match against Argentina in Mbombela. The lock will earn his 128th cap during the final round of the Rugby Championship, surpassing Victor Matfield’s previous record. Head coach Rassie Erasmus has welcomed back key players, including Siya Kolisi, Pieter-Steph du Toit, and Cheslin Kolbe, who were absent during the Springboks’ defeat to the Pumas in Santiago…

On September 24, Inspector General of Police Felix Namuhoranye hosted Commissioner of Police Ted Barbe from Seychelles at the Rwanda National Police General Headquarters in Kigali. This important meeting aimed to enhance the bilateral cooperation that has been developing between the two nations since they signed a law enforcement cooperation agreement in June of last year. In a complementary engagement, General Mubarakh Muganga, Chief of Defence Staff of the Rwanda Defence Force, also met with Brigadier Michael Rosette from the Seychelles People’s Defence Forces. Their discussions were centered on strengthening defense cooperation and enhancing operational capabilities to address emerging security…

Mali’s transitional president recently convened a crucial meeting with top military officials to reassess the country’s security strategies following a series of violent insurgent attacks in Bamako. The presidency officially announced this development on Tuesday, highlighting the urgency after the attacks resulted in over 75 deaths and more than 250 injuries. The assaults, attributed to an Al-Qaeda-affiliated group, targeted significant locations within Bamako, including parts of the main airport and a military police training facility. These incidents mark a significant escalation in violence in a city that has typically experienced less intense attacks compared to other regions of Mali. The…

Nigerian authorities have seized 19.4 kilograms (42.77 pounds) of cocaine, valued at 4.66 billion naira ($2.93 million), from a passenger arriving at Lagos airport from Ethiopia. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) made the announcement on Tuesday, marking one of the agency’s significant drug busts in recent months. The arrested individual, a 48-year-old Nigerian businessman, had previously been convicted of drug trafficking last year but managed to avoid jail by paying a fine. On September 18, the suspect was apprehended while allegedly carrying 817 wraps of cocaine, concealed in his luggage. This discovery underscores the agency’s ongoing battle against…

Migration across Africa remains a multi-dimensional crisis, driven by political instability, economic hardship, environmental degradation, and armed conflicts. Millions of Africans are internally displaced or forced to flee their countries, enduring life-threatening journeys in search of safety or opportunity. This article delves into the current migration landscape across Northern, West, East, Central, and Southern Africa, examining the underlying causes, humanitarian toll, and the urgent need for sustainable solutions. Northern Africa: Political Instability, Dangerous Sea Crossings, and Recent Tragedies Northern Africa, particularly Libya and Morocco, has become a transit hub for migrants trying to reach Europe. Libya, in the aftermath of…

The Russian government has confirmed the detention of three of its citizens in Chad, sparking diplomatic efforts to secure their release. The detained individuals, identified as Maxim Shugaley, Samer Sueifan, and E. Tsaryov, were apprehended in the capital, N’Djamena, on September 19. According to Russian officials, they are working closely with Chadian authorities to ensure the prompt return of the detainees. Initial reports suggest that Shugaley and Sueifan were detained at N’Djamena’s airport, though no official explanation has been provided for the action. It is noted that both men had previously traveled to Chad without incident. Alongside the three Russians,…

In a strategic move aimed at enhancing Africa’s capacity to combat mpox, U.S. President Joe Biden is set to announce a substantial donation of 1 million doses of the vaccine, alongside a financial commitment of at least $500 million. This initiative is designed to provide critical assistance to African nations facing the ongoing outbreak of this viral infection. The announcement is scheduled for Tuesday during the United Nations General Assembly, where Biden will be participating in discussions focused on global health and cooperation. A senior administration official shared that Biden’s announcement not only signifies the United States’ commitment to addressing…

On September 24, South Africa ignites a nationwide celebration of National Heritage Day, honoring the rich and diverse cultural landscape that defines the nation. This day is not just a public holiday; it is a heartfelt tribute to the multitude of traditions, languages, and histories that coexist within South Africa’s borders. With twelve official languages, including the recently recognized South African Sign Language, the country showcases an impressive mosaic of identities that enrich its societal fabric. Established in 1996, Heritage Day was created to promote unity, reconciliation, and a shared sense of identity among South Africans. It encourages citizens to…

Chinese identity solutions provider Emptech is reportedly positioning itself to enter Mali’s technology market, with aspirations to secure a contract for the production of government-issued documents. This strategic move coincides with a larger trend of Chinese technology companies expanding their footprint in Africa’s rapidly evolving and lucrative identity documents sector. Recent reports indicate that Emptech has been diligently working for several months to establish a presence in Mali. This development follows an announcement by Malian leader Assimi Goïta regarding plans by the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) — which includes Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger — to implement a common…

Ghanaian police announced the arrest of three additional protesters on Monday, including Oliver Barker-Vormawor, a prominent leader of the Democracy Hub group. This follows the detention of 42 individuals during recent protests in Accra that focused on illegal mining practices and the country’s ongoing economic hardships. The protests, organized by Democracy Hub, began on Friday and were scheduled to last until Monday. Participants, primarily young people, took to the streets of Accra, chanting patriotic songs and carrying placards that expressed their frustrations over environmental degradation linked to illegal mining and their dissatisfaction with the government’s perceived mismanagement of the economy.…

Côte d’Ivoire, recognized as the leading cocoa producer globally, is experiencing encouraging signs for its upcoming cocoa harvest scheduled from October to March. Recent weather conditions, particularly drier spells combined with adequate moisture in key cocoa-producing regions, are fostering positive growth for the cocoa crop. Although Côte d’Ivoire is currently in its official rainy season, which spans from April to mid-November and typically features heavy rainfall, recent weeks have seen below-average precipitation across several cocoa regions. This unexpected dry weather has created optimal conditions for the cocoa beans, allowing them to dry properly while still benefiting from sufficient moisture to…

In a significant step towards strengthening diplomatic ties, Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Olivier Nduhungirehe, and his Bahamian counterpart, Frederick Mitchell, have officially signed a memorandum of understanding to exempt visa requirements for citizens of both countries. This landmark agreement was formalized on September 23 during the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York, signaling a new era of cooperation between the two nations. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Rwanda emphasized that this agreement represents a crucial advancement in facilitating travel between Rwanda and The Bahamas. By allowing citizens to move freely without the need…

On Monday, Egypt’s foreign ministry issued a strong call for immediate intervention from “international powers and the United Nations Security Council” to address the escalating Israeli military actions in Lebanon. This appeal comes amid growing concerns over the rising violence and its potential to destabilize the entire region. Recent reports from Lebanon’s health ministry indicate that Israeli airstrikes have caused significant casualties, claiming the lives of 356 individuals, including 24 children, and displacing thousands more. This surge in violence represents the deadliest cross-border conflict since the onset of Israel’s war with Hamas in October, highlighting the urgent need for international…

In a significant political development, Senegal’s two former ruling parties, led by ex-presidents Macky Sall and Abdoulaye Wade, have formed a coalition ahead of the snap legislative election scheduled for November 17. This unexpected partnership is set to challenge the authority of newly elected President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who has been seeking to consolidate power for his Pastef party. The Alliance for the Republic (APR), headed by Sall, and the Senegalese Democratic Party (PDS), led by Wade, announced their alliance on Sunday. Together, the two parties held a commanding 106 seats out of 165 in the previous national assembly, signaling…

In a bid to address persistent economic disparities, South Africa’s leader of the Black economic empowerment initiative has announced plans for significant reforms aimed at increasing corporate engagement and curtailing abuses of the system. This move comes as the African National Congress (ANC), which recently lost its parliamentary majority, faces mounting pressure to improve the living conditions of Black South Africans who have been disadvantaged for decades. Since its inception in 2003, the Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) program has sought to encourage businesses to hire and promote Black individuals through a scorecard system that offers tax incentives and access to…

The World Health Organization (WHO) has revealed that nearly 30,000 suspected cases of mpox have been reported across Africa this year, with the majority occurring in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where testing resources have been exhausted. During the same period, more than 800 suspected mpox-related deaths have been recorded throughout the continent. Neighboring Burundi is also facing a growing outbreak, further straining the region’s healthcare systems. Mpox is spread primarily through close contact and is usually mild, but in rare instances, it can be fatal. Symptoms typically include flu-like effects along with pus-filled skin lesions. While the WHO did…

Tunis is set to welcome delegates from across the continent and beyond for the 8th international conference on “Financing Investment and Trade in Africa” (FITA2025), scheduled for May 6 and 7, 2025. This notable event, organized by the Tunisia-Africa Business Council (TABC), will coincide with the council’s 10th anniversary, marking a decade of promoting business collaboration and economic growth in Africa. FITA2025 is expected to attract prominent figures from international and pan-African spheres, fostering high-level discussions among industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators. The conference will revolve around the theme “Driving Africa’s Transformation,” highlighting crucial areas such as industrial advancement, digital…

Cape Town is gearing up to host the highly anticipated WXV tournament, where the Springbok Women will compete against five international teams. The event is set to begin on Friday, September 27, with the Springbok Women facing Japan at the DHL Stadium at 4 PM. Both DHL Stadium and Athlone Stadium will serve as venues, creating an electric atmosphere for rugby fans. The WXV 2 tournament is part of World Rugby’s annual women’s rugby series, aimed at promoting the sport and providing a competitive platform for teams. In addition to South Africa, participating teams include Japan, Australia, Wales, Scotland, and…

Adamawa State is grappling with a severe cholera outbreak that has resulted in 15 confirmed deaths. Health authorities warn that the situation may be worse than reported, with approximately 300 additional individuals currently hospitalized due to the illness. The outbreak has predominantly affected four local government areas: Yola South, Yola North, Fufore, and Girei. Health Commissioner Felix Tangwami confirmed the outbreak during a recent press briefing in Yola, stating that seven of the fatalities occurred within government healthcare facilities, while the remaining eight were reported in local communities. The rapid spread of cholera has raised alarm among health officials, prompting…

Florence Otedola, known as DJ Cuppy, reached a significant milestone this weekend by becoming the first British-Nigerian to host an opening session at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). As the daughter of Nigerian billionaire Femi Otedola, she led the session titled “The Summit of the Future – Youth Actions Day,” which underscored the vital role of young people in fostering global change. In her keynote address, DJ Cuppy engaged the audience with her lively energy and dynamic presence. “I’m Florence Ifeoluwa Otedola, but you can call me Cuppy, representing Nigeria. Today is all about you, the youth,” she proclaimed,…