Author: WAJ Editor

Opposition leaders in the Democratic Republic of Congo have called for nationwide protests in response to President Felix Tshisekedi’s plans to draft a new constitution. The announcement has sparked fears among political rivals about potential changes to the presidential term limit. Tshisekedi revealed last month that a national commission would be established next year to revise the country’s 2006 constitution, which he has criticized as outdated. Opposition figures, including former President Joseph Kabila and ex-presidential candidates Martin Fayulu and Moise Katumbi, expressed concerns over the proposed reforms. “The constitution was designed to prevent authoritarian tendencies and ensure democratic transitions of…

At least 50 Boko Haram insurgents were killed on Monday during an ambush on a government security convoy in Shiroro, Niger State, Nigeria. Babawale Afolabi, spokesperson for the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), confirmed the incident late Tuesday. The convoy, comprising 80 security personnel tasked with safeguarding the power infrastructure in the region, was attacked by an estimated 200 Boko Haram militants during a routine patrol. Authorities reported that seven security operatives remain missing following the attack. The clash underscores ongoing security challenges in Nigeria as government forces continue efforts to combat insurgent groups in the country.

Zimbabwe is set to present a strong case at a high-level United Nations conference in Geneva, Switzerland, demanding the immediate and unconditional removal of sanctions imposed by Western nations. The two-day Conference on Sanctions, Business, and Human Rights begins this Thursday and is co-organized by the UN Special Rapporteur on the Negative Impact of Unilateral Coercive Measures, Professor Alena Douhan, alongside the Group of Friends in Defence of the UN Charter. Led by Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Ziyambi Ziyambi, Zimbabwe’s delegation will outline the detrimental effects of the sanctions, which have hampered the country’s economic growth for…

The death toll from the collapse of a four-story building in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, has risen to 20, President Samia Suluhu Hassan announced on Wednesday. Speaking at the site in the Kariakoo district, where the tragedy occurred on Saturday, President Hassan expressed condolences to the affected families and raised concerns about construction standards. Her visit came shortly after returning from the G20 summit in Brazil. “This incident underscores the urgent need to ensure the safety of buildings in Kariakoo,” Hassan said. “Upon inspection, it was evident that the structure, walls, and materials were poorly managed, posing serious risks.” The…

The Embassy of Switzerland in Egypt and the Italian Cultural Institute in Cairo have hosted a solo exhibition, The Return to the Day, by Swiss-Italian artist Dominique Sighanda. The exhibition, part of the Italian Language Week celebrations and the 90th anniversary of the Switzerland-Egypt Friendship Treaty, is on display at the Don Bosco Salesian Institute in Cairo until November 30. Sighanda, a painter, musician, and mobile illustrator, presents her unique perspective on Egypt through drawings, travel notebooks, and plates inspired by her visits to historical sites like Giza and Saqqara. The exhibition reflects her revival of the carnet de voyage…

South African police are preparing a rescue operation to retrieve a group of illegal miners who have remained underground in an abandoned mine for over a month. Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe stated that experts met on Tuesday to finalize the operation plan, starting with a camera assessment to address safety concerns. Authorities clarified that the miners are not trapped but have refused to surface, fearing arrest. The Society for the Protection of Our Constitution has filed a High Court case on behalf of the miners, seeking assurances they will not be detained upon emerging. The case has been adjourned, according…

Botswana’s newly elected President, Duma Boko, has announced ambitious plans to diversify the country’s diamond-dependent economy by tapping into the global medicinal cannabis market and harnessing its abundant solar energy. In his inaugural state of the nation address on Tuesday, Boko outlined a strategy to reduce reliance on diamonds, which currently account for 80% of Botswana’s foreign earnings. “The over 60% decline in diamond revenues in recent years highlights the urgent need to diversify our economy,” Boko stated. His government aims to attract investment in renewable energy, agriculture, tourism, and technology to stimulate growth. Botswana, with over 3,200 hours of…

Cocoa prices climbed sharply on Tuesday, with London cocoa reaching a four-month high, driven by fears of unfavorable growing conditions in West Africa. December ICE New York cocoa rose by 2.15%, while London cocoa gained 3.50%. The rise follows a report from Maxar Technologies predicting dry weather in West Africa, which could negatively affect soil moisture levels and disrupt the flowering of the region’s mid-year cocoa crop. Key producing countries like Ghana and Nigeria are experiencing hot and dry conditions, while heavy rains in the Ivory Coast have caused flooding, increased disease risk, and lowered bean quality. Recent beans from…

Namibia’s state-owned electricity utility, NamPower, is aiming to raise $450 million to enhance the country’s energy production capacity, reducing its reliance on imported electricity from South Africa. NamPower has secured €166 million ($175 million) in loans from Germany’s KfW and France’s Agence Française de Développement (AFD). KfW will provide €66 million for a solar park at Rosh Pinah in southern Namibia, while AFD has committed €100 million to support a biomass energy project utilizing invasive brush encroaching on grasslands. Additionally, NamPower is negotiating a loan with the World Bank. To further fund its energy initiatives, NamPower plans to issue 5…

Alassane Thiam, a high school dropout and welder from Mbar, Senegal, has revolutionized cooking in rural communities with his waste-oil stove. Designed to utilize discarded vehicle lubricants, the stove offers a cost-effective alternative to firewood, gas, and electricity, significantly benefiting households in areas where traditional fuels are scarce or expensive. Thiam’s invention, built in his father’s welding workshop, has already impacted 26,000 residents in Mbar. The stove features a reservoir for waste oil, a trigger mechanism with propellers for consistent airflow, and two taps to regulate oil and air. It allows users to cook meals for a month using just…

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu’s administration has proposed a ₦47.9 trillion budget for the 2025 fiscal year, marking a 35% increase from the ₦35.5 trillion budget for 2024. The budget includes ₦9.92 trillion for non-debt recurrent spending, ₦7.72 trillion for capital projects, and ₦8.25 trillion for debt servicing. The proposal, approved by the Federal Executive Council, projects a 4.6% GDP growth rate, crude oil at $75 per barrel, an exchange rate of ₦1,400 to the dollar, and oil production of 2.06 million barrels per day. To address the budget deficit, the government plans to borrow ₦13.8 trillion in 2025, representing 3.87%…

Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan has extended rescue operations following the collapse of a building in Dar es Salaam’s Kariakoo area, which has claimed 16 lives so far. Rescuers have saved 86 people, but several remain missing. The President remains hopeful that survivors may still be found, even beyond the critical 72-hour rescue window. Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has instructed police to locate the building’s owner as part of an ongoing investigation. A detailed government report on the incident is expected soon. In response to the tragedy, President Hassan has also ordered a thorough inspection of all buildings in the…

South Africa’s power utility, Eskom, is seeking a 36% electricity tariff increase, sparking widespread opposition during nationwide public hearings hosted by energy regulator Nersa. The utility also proposed smaller hikes of 12% and 9% for subsequent years, with Nersa’s decision expected on December 20. Eskom argues the increases are essential to address its financial woes and maintain uninterrupted power supply. Despite financial challenges and frequent blackouts in recent years, 2024 marked a turnaround, with South Africa achieving over 200 days without outages, boosting economic optimism. However, the utility faces mounting debts, with municipalities owing Eskom 90 billion rand ($5 billion).…

The United States special envoy for Sudan, Tom Perriello, has called for the swift implementation of humanitarian corridors and aid pauses to address the worsening crisis in the war-torn country. Speaking after discussions with Sudanese leaders, Perriello emphasized the urgent need for faster and more effective aid deliveries, particularly to regions grappling with acute hunger and disease. While some progress has been made—such as approving flights to South Kordofan and extending access to the Adre border crossing into Darfur—Perriello stressed that more needs to be done. The ongoing conflict between Sudan’s army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), now…

Zimbabwe’s move to align electricity tariffs with actual costs has triggered a surge in energy sector investments, potentially easing the country’s chronic power shortages. Since the adjustment in December 2023, energy projects totaling 3,000 megawatts are underway, according to Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA) Chairman Sydney Gata. Speaking at an energy summit in Victoria Falls, Gata revealed that the updated tariffs encouraged industries, particularly mining, to invest in power infrastructure. “Once tariffs were corrected, we engaged industries and mining firms, urging them to invest in energy infrastructure. The response exceeded our expectations,” Gata said. Notable projects set to launch next…

At the G20 Leaders Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu endorsed the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, an initiative spearheaded by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Tinubu praised the alliance as a critical step in addressing hunger and poverty worldwide, highlighting its emphasis on collaboration between governments, international organizations, and civil society to tackle both immediate needs and structural issues. Tinubu aligned the initiative with Nigeria’s domestic priorities, emphasizing the country’s commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly eradicating poverty (SDG 1) and achieving zero hunger (SDG 2). He noted that Nigeria’s endorsement…

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has signed a Memorandum of Academic Agreement with the Africa Centre for Strategic Studies (ACSS) in Washington, D.C., marking a significant step toward enhancing collaboration on conflict resolution and human rights. The signing ceremony, was led by ECOWAS Vice President H.E. Damtien L. Tchinchibidja. Colonel (Ret.) Dan Hampton, Acting Director of ACSS, emphasized the importance of the partnership in addressing conflict drivers and strengthening ties between the two organizations. The collaboration will focus on research initiatives, capacity building, and strategic leadership, with a particular emphasis on innovative approaches to conflict prevention. Vice…

Activists from the Global South convened at the COP29 summit in Baku, urging wealthy nations to provide trillions of dollars to help less privileged countries address the impacts of climate change. Demonstrators stressed the importance of unity among climate ministers as negotiations for a financial agreement continued. African Union member activists urged to increase funding for climate change in Africa and denounced France’s nuclear activities, demanding an end to genocide. Aishwarya Visvanathan, from the Asian Peoples’ Movement on Debt and Development, called on Global South ministers to remain united. “They must not agree to a deal that harms the Global…

The World Health Organization (WHO) is collaborating with African nations to diversify malaria treatment programs to combat growing resistance, according to Achu, WHO’s head of tropical and vector-borne diseases in Africa. A new malaria variant is complicating diagnosis by evading widely used testing methods. Venkatesan from USAID highlighted that the increased transmission driven by the Anopheles stephensi mosquito could accelerate the spread of drug resistance and further mutations, making the disease harder to detect. Experts also pointed to a lack of coordination among African governments as a significant challenge. Achu emphasized the need for a “more continental approach,” while Mbogo…

Australian gold miner Resolute Mining has agreed to pay Mali’s military-led government $160 million to settle a tax dispute, following the detention of its British CEO, Terry Holohan, and two colleagues. The trio had been arrested 10 days earlier while en route to Bamako for what they believed would be routine discussions, amid increasing scrutiny of foreign mining companies in the West African nation. Resolute, which operates a gold mine in Mali, announced it will make an initial payment of $80 million from its cash reserves, with the remaining balance to be paid in the coming months. Reports indicate the…

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is providing technical support to Liberia to improve agricultural data collection and address gaps, particularly in hard-to-reach areas affected by adverse weather or poor infrastructure. Reliable agricultural data is essential for informed policymaking, sustainable development, and monitoring progress on key initiatives. In Liberia, challenging road conditions often hamper survey efforts, with teams forced to abandon vehicles and travel on foot to reach remote farming communities. Farmers sometimes struggle to trust the process or quantify their production accurately. Farmer Suzana Tarway shared her initial skepticism but expressed satisfaction after understanding the…

The Collective of Military Defense (CDM), a faction within Mali’s armed forces, has accused Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maïga of “treason” and demanded his resignation within 72 hours following his criticism of the ruling junta. The CDM, closely aligned with junta leader Assimi Goïta, labeled Maïga’s actions as “high treason,” a charge that carries weight given the junta’s history of acting on the group’s demands. Appointed by the military in 2021 after Mali’s second coup that year, Maïga openly criticized the junta on November 16 during a ceremony marking the recapture of Kidal. Dressed in military attire, the civilian prime…

Burundi has begun releasing prisoners charged with minor offenses in a bid to alleviate severe overcrowding in its prisons. President Évariste Ndayishimiye ordered the release of 5,442 detainees, accounting for 41% of the prison population, as part of a broader initiative to reduce strain on the country’s eleven overcrowded facilities. In the first phase, 477 prisoners were released from Muramvya prison. Speaking on the initiative, President Ndayishimiye described the pardons as an opportunity for reintegration and national development. “This pardon is not mandated by law but is a chance for our brothers and sisters to change, convert, and contribute to…

At least six people, including two children, lost their lives in a boat accident off the coast of Luanda, Angola’s capital, during a Catholic maritime procession, authorities confirmed on Monday. The vessel, carrying over 30 passengers, sank near the island of Luanda on Saturday. Police spokesperson Hermenio Cazucuto stated that 17 people were rescued, while four remain in critical condition at the hospital. Search efforts continue for three missing individuals. Emergency services spokesperson Maina Panzu revealed that the deceased children were aged four and six. While the exact cause of the accident remains unclear, negligence by the captain, who is…

The US Ambassador to South Africa, Reuben Brigety, has announced his resignation effective January 10, 2025, following the election of President Donald Trump. His departure aligns with the standard procedure during a change in US presidential administration. Reflecting on his tenure, Brigety highlighted progress in US-South Africa relations, particularly in trade and health collaboration. He praised initiatives like AGOA (African Growth and Opportunity Act), which facilitated trade and supported over 267,000 jobs in South Africa. He also noted joint efforts to combat HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis, as well as strengthen COVID-19 vaccine production. Concerns have arisen over the future of AGOA,…

Russia vetoed a United Nations Security Council resolution on Monday that sought an immediate ceasefire in Sudan, a country mired in a devastating war since April 2023. The conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has caused the world’s largest displacement crisis, with over 11 million people uprooted and tens of thousands killed. The resolution, proposed by the United Kingdom and Sierra Leone, urged all parties to halt hostilities and engage in talks to agree on a national ceasefire. It also called for humanitarian pauses and the safe passage of aid. While 14 council…

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa jointly launched the Scaling up Renewables in Africa campaign on November 17, 2024, during an event in Rio de Janeiro, ahead of the G20 Summit. The initiative aligns with COP28’s global targets to triple renewable energy capacity and double energy efficiency. It aims to attract significant investments in Africa’s renewable energy sector, leveraging the continent’s vast clean energy potential. “Africa’s clean energy journey is picking up speed, and Europe is proud to be part of it,” President von der Leyen remarked, highlighting Europe’s ongoing investment in African…

The YouthConnekt Africa 2024 Summit, held in Kigali, Rwanda, from November 8–10, brought together over 4,000 young leaders, innovators, and policymakers under the theme “Youth Employment and Innovative Skills.” Initiated by Rwandan President Paul Kagame, the event emphasized addressing Africa’s youth employment challenges through innovation and skill development, with youth making up over 60% of the continent’s population. Since its inception in 2012, YouthConnekt Africa has expanded to 33 countries, connecting young people to opportunities that enhance their employability while supporting sustainable development and the African Union’s Agenda 2063. This year’s program focused on six pillars: skills development, digital innovations,…

The Seychelles government and the World Bank held discussions on Monday, focusing on new areas of collaboration, including climate finance, tackling coastal erosion, addressing social issues, and enhancing public service efficiency. Renewable energy development also featured prominently on the agenda. Victoria Kwakwa, the World Bank’s regional vice president for Eastern and Southern Africa, met with Seychelles’ Finance, National Planning, and Trade Minister, Naadir Hassan, following a site visit on Sunday. Kwakwa and her delegation toured several sites along the East Coast of Mahé, where World Bank-funded projects aim to mitigate the impact of climate change-induced coastal erosion. The initial phase…

Botswana’s newly elected President, Advocate Duma Gideon Boko, chose the World Children’s Day celebrations in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, for his first international engagement. During the event, he delivered a heartfelt speech underscoring his dedication to championing children’s rights. President Boko commended the articulate presentations by the children at the gathering, describing their demands as inspiring and deeply moving. “The children spoke eloquently, with well-articulated presentations. They have made their calls, and I heard them—they spoke to me and to my heart,” he said. He pledged to prioritize their needs, acknowledging past shortcomings. “Your demands will be mine to carry, together…

Former Benin police chief General Louis Philippe Houndegnon has been arrested on charges of “incitement to rebellion” and is awaiting trial, set to begin on December 16, judicial sources confirmed on Friday. Houndegnon, a critic of the current government, was a key figure during the administration of former President Thomas Boni Yayi but was dismissed in 2016 by President Patrice Talon. His arrest follows the recent detention of several high-profile figures accused of plotting a coup, highlighting rising political tensions in the country. Sources close to Houndegnon described him as calm and in good spirits despite his detention. Political fractures…

A lion cub named Sara, rescued from war-torn Lebanon, has been relocated to a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa. The operation was spearheaded by Animals Lebanon, an animal welfare organization, amidst escalating conflict between Hezbollah and Israel. Sara was saved from a Lebanese social media influencer who used her as a prop for TikTok videos. When rescued in September, she had scars, ringworm, and was living in unsuitable conditions. Following a court order, Animals Lebanon took custody of the 4-month-old cub, providing care in a Beirut apartment until arrangements for her relocation were made. The rescue operation involved a covert…

Mozambique’s government has implemented a ban on public demonstrations following weeks of violent protests sparked by October’s disputed presidential election. The government claims the ban is necessary to restore public order. Interior Minister Amade Miquidade urged citizens to support authorities in curbing what he referred to as “acts of terrorism.” Security forces have responded to protests with tear gas, rubber bullets, and, in some cases, military intervention. Internet access across the country has also been restricted, a move criticized by Human Rights Watch as an attempt to silence dissent. Since the unrest began in early October, over a dozen people…

The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised alarm over the rapid increase in diabetes across Africa, calling for urgent measures to address the growing health crisis. Over 24 million adults in the continent currently live with diabetes, with half unaware of their condition. By 2045, this figure is expected to more than double, reaching 54 million—the highest projected increase globally. The surge in diabetes cases is attributed to factors such as urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and poor diets. Despite this alarming trend, only 1% of Africa’s health budget is allocated to diabetes care, the lowest globally. If left unchecked, the disease…

Gabon is holding a crucial constitutional referendum on Saturday, which could significantly alter the country’s political landscape. The proposed changes include a seven-year presidential term, renewable once, and the abolition of the prime minister position. This vote is the first under the military-led transitional government, following the coup that ousted long-time leader Ali Bongo in August 2023. Transitional President Brice Oligui Nguema called on the public to participate in the referendum, emphasizing that “our only enemy is abstention.” The government views the referendum as a key step in their transition plan after Bongo’s removal. In October, Gabon’s Council of Ministers…

Canada’s York Regional Police recently uncovered stolen vehicles, at a Toronto lot, destined for Africa. The vehicles were found with reprogrammed key fobs, allowing thieves to unlock and start the cars without the original keys. These key fob reprogramming devices, easily available online, are increasingly used by criminals to steal vehicles. The stolen cars are then trafficked overseas for resale. While car theft in Canada has dropped by 17% in 2024, carjackings have surged. Police emphasize the need for better regulation of reprogramming devices and stronger enforcement at ports to combat organized auto theft.

The Rural Finance Initiative Limited (RUFI), a Ugandan and South Sudanese NGO, has won the 2024 European Microfinance Award, securing a €100,000 prize. This prestigious award, established by the Luxembourg government in 2005, recognizes RUFI’s decade-long efforts to advance financial inclusion for refugees and forcibly displaced persons. Founded in 2008 in South Sudan, RUFI was forced to relocate to Uganda in 2017 due to the South Sudanese Civil War. Notably, 80% of its staff are themselves forcibly displaced. The NGO provides a range of financial services aimed at uplifting the living standards of refugees, refugee-owned businesses, and host communities. These…

Nigeria’s deepwater oil sector has emerged as one of the most competitive globally, climbing from the bottom quartile of 13 indexed countries to rank among the top three, according to the presidency. Olu Verheijen, Special Adviser on Energy to President Bola Tinubu, highlighted this progress during a keynote address at an executive session of the Energy Institute and the National Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE) in Abuja on Friday. Verheijen attributed the advancements to significant reforms implemented by President Tinubu’s administration, aimed at improving fiscal policies and easing business operations in the oil and gas sector. Notably, Nigeria has introduced…

Jacob Mudenda, the Speaker of Zimbabwe’s National Assembly, has arrived in Azerbaijan to attend the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP29) under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. Mudenda was greeted at Heydar Aliyev International Airport by Azerbaijani parliamentarians Mahir Suleymanli and Shahin Ismayilov, along with other officials. Baku will host a Parliamentary Meeting on November 16-17 as part of COP29. The event, co-organized by the Inter-Parliamentary Union and Azerbaijan’s Milli Majlis, is set to bring together representatives from 92 delegations across 66 countries and international organizations.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has authorized the deployment of 1,100 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers to assist police in tackling illegal mining and related crimes, despite the military’s severe financial constraints. Lieutenant General Siphiwe Sangweni, the SANDF’s joint operations chief, informed MPs that the operation, dubbed Operation Prosper, required reallocating funds within the SANDF’s limited budget to proceed. The estimated cost of the deployment is R140 million, with additional funding expected from the National Treasury. The deployment, effective from November 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025, targets illegal mining hotspots in Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Limpopo, North West, Free State, and…

Former President Macky Sall and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko are set to face off in Senegal’s parliamentary elections this weekend as they lead rival coalitions vying for a majority in Parliament. Over seven million voters are expected to participate in the elections, which follow the dissolution of the opposition-controlled parliament by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. Faye argued that the previous legislature hindered his government’s ability to implement its agenda. Historically, Senegalese presidents have enjoyed strong parliamentary support, but analysts predict this election could be different. Rising unemployment and unmet promises from both President Faye and Prime Minister Sonko have heightened…

The Directorate of Immigration Services (DIS) has temporarily removed the booking requirement for passport collection to speed up the processing and issuance of applications. In a statement released Friday, Immigration Principal Secretary Julius Bitok encouraged applicants whose names appear on the provided lists to collect their passports directly from the stations where they initially submitted their applications. For those unable to collect their documents immediately, notifications will be issued when their passports are ready. The move comes as part of DIS’s broader strategy to address a backlog of unprinted passports caused by high service demand. “The DIS has temporarily suspended…

Israeli deputy ambassadors across Africa gathered in Kigali, Rwanda, for a diplomatic retreat aimed at enhancing collaboration and strengthening ties with the continent. The event, hosted by Israel’s embassy in Kigali, included discussions on strategic issues and opportunities for partnership. “This conference is a significant step in bolstering diplomatic relations and expanding partnerships across Africa,” the embassy stated. During their stay, the delegation, led by Ambassador Sharon Bar-Li, Deputy Director General of the Africa Division, visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial to honor the victims of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. Bar-Li emphasized Israel’s solidarity with Rwanda, highlighting the shared…

Tulia Ackson, the Speaker of Tanzania’s National Assembly, arrived in Azerbaijan on Friday to attend the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP29) under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. Upon her arrival at Heydar Aliyev International Airport, Ackson was received by Azerbaijani MP Amina Aghazada and other officials. Baku is set to host a Parliamentary Meeting on November 16-17 as part of COP29. Jointly organized by the Inter-Parliamentary Union and Azerbaijan’s Milli Majlis, the gathering will feature 92 delegations from 66 countries and international organizations. Around 330 participants are expected, including 167 parliamentarians and 12 speakers…

Namibia’s International Relations Minister, Dr. Peya Mushelenga, has announced that the country is prepared to conduct its presidential and national assembly elections in two weeks. The ruling South West Africa People’s Organisation (Swapo), which has held power since Namibia gained independence in 1990, is facing strong competition from other political parties in this election. Swapo has nominated its vice president, a female candidate, as its presidential contender. Dr. Mushelenga expressed confidence in the party’s prospects, stating, “Swapo is optimistic about retaining power.” He also highlighted that special voting, including ballots from security personnel and citizens living abroad, has already been…

The Central African Republic (CAR) has seen notable progress in its disarmament efforts, with 478 members of the Coalition of Patriots for Change (CPC) voluntarily joining the National Disarmament, Demobilization, Reintegration, and Return (DDRR) Program, according to military reports. These former rebels surrendered 1,788 rounds of military ammunition, 30 AK-47 rifles, and eight rocket launchers to DDRR officials. In the past two weeks alone, around 150 rebels have disarmed, signaling an acceleration in the process. However, the nation continues to grapple with violent conflicts, as armed groups like Seleka, Anti-Balaka, 3R (Return, Requisition, Reconstruction), the Union for Peace (UPC), the…

Tanzania is hosting a high-profile summit this week in Dar es Salaam to drive policy reforms in its tourism sector, with a focus on sustainable development in blue and green economies. The two-day event, titled “Blue and Green: Making the Most of Tanzania’s Coast and Hinterland Ecosystems,” brings together stakeholders from the public and private sectors to shape the future of the country’s tourism industry. Lathifa Sykes, CEO of the Tourism Confederation of Tanzania, announced that the summit, organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism and Environment Now, will tackle issues such as regulatory reforms, tax…

China Nonferrous Metal Mining Company (CNMC) has unveiled plans to invest $1.6 billion in Zambia, signaling a major boost for the nation’s mining sector. The announcement followed discussions between CNMC officials and President Hakainde Hichilema at State House. Wen Gang, CNMC Chairman and CEO, alongside Chinese Ambassador to Zambia Han Jing, reaffirmed the company’s dedication to supporting Zambia’s economic growth. Wen highlighted ongoing efforts at the Luanshya Copper Mine, where CNMC has removed nearly 30 million cubic liters of water from Shaft 28 as part of dewatering operations. The company also plans to allocate an additional $200 million to develop…

Liberian President Joseph Boakai’s efforts to strengthen ties with Russia are raising alarms within the country and abroad, with critics warning of potential risks to national stability and relations with the United States. The Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), Liberia’s main opposition party, has accused Boakai’s administration of jeopardizing Liberia’s peace by aligning with Russia. The concerns follow Moscow’s announcement of plans to open an embassy in Liberia, a move seen as part of Russia’s broader strategy to expand influence in Africa. CDC Secretary General Jefferson Tamba Koijee alleged that Boakai collaborated with Russian officials during his 2023 presidential campaign…

Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has endorsed Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as the ideal candidate to lead Ghana. Highlighting his extensive experience, including roles at the Bank of Ghana, African Development Bank, and eight years as Vice President, Kufuor praised Bawumia’s preparation for leadership. Kufuor lauded Bawumia’s unifying qualities, noting his ability to bridge religious and ethnic divides, and emphasized his expertise in technology and global trends, critical for modern governance. Describing him as “the man of the moment,” Kufuor expressed confidence in Bawumia’s ability to drive Ghana’s transformation. “Despite being a Muslim, he maintains strong relationships with Ghana’s…

South Sudan is taking steps to harness its critical mineral resources to drive a transition to renewable energy, aiming to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and cut carbon emissions. The initiative was unveiled on Wednesday as part of a strategic energy transition blueprint designed to transform the country’s energy sector. The second validation meeting for the “Development of an Energy Transition Strategy” brought together government officials, experts, and stakeholders to refine the plan. Dr. Cosmas Pitia Kujjo, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Mining, emphasized the vital role of energy in sustainable development and the pressing need to address power shortages…

Nigeria has unveiled plans for a 47 trillion naira ($28.18 billion) budget for 2025, based on an oil price assumption of $75 per barrel and a production target of 2 million barrels per day, Budget Minister Atiku Bagudu announced on Thursday. The proposed budget includes a deficit of 13.8 trillion naira, representing 3.87% of the projected GDP. Bagudu shared the details following a cabinet meeting in Abuja, emphasizing that the government remains on track with its fiscal strategy. The 2025 budget also sets a projected exchange rate of 1,400 naira to the U.S. dollar, which is stronger than the official…

Senegal is set to hold legislative elections on Sunday, a pivotal vote that will determine whether the new government and President can secure a majority in the National Assembly to advance their reform agenda. The elections come amid rising tensions, with fears of unrest resurfacing after a period of calm. Earlier this year, Senegal experienced some of its worst violence in decades during the lead-up to the March presidential election. Heated Campaign and Economic Challenges The campaign has intensified in recent days, with political rhetoric escalating. Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, leader of the ruling Pastef party, accused opponents of targeting…

Botswana and Zambia have officially lifted long-standing travel bans against Julius Malema, leader of South Africa’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party. The bans, which had been in place for over a decade, stemmed from Malema’s controversial remarks and actions targeting the leadership of both countries. Botswana Leads the Way On November 7, Botswana lifted its travel restrictions on Malema, just one day before the inauguration of the country’s sixth president, Duma Boko. A government notice from President Boko also removed bans against Floyd Shivambu, former EFF deputy leader, and Bridgette Motsepe-Radebe, a South African businesswoman. Malema had been barred from…

A Ugandan court has convicted a 21-year-old TikTok user, Emmanuel Nabugodi, for calling on social media for the public whipping of President Yoweri Museveni. Nabugodi, who shared a video featuring a mock trial of Museveni, faces up to seven years in prison on charges of inciting hate speech against the President. After pleading guilty, Nabugodi has been detained at Kigo maximum-security prison near Kampala, awaiting sentencing on November 18. State Attorney Paul Aheebwa Byamukama informed the Entebbe court that prosecutors are seeking a seven-year sentence. This marks Nabugodi as the fourth Ugandan in two days to be detained over statements…

The prestigious Africa Oil Week (AOW) conference, a major event in the global energy sector, will be moving from Cape Town to Accra in 2025. The conference is scheduled to take place from September 15 to 18, marking a significant shift in the energy landscape. This move was announced by the Ghanaian government, AOW organizers, and the Africa Prosperity Network, highlighting Ghana’s rising role in Africa’s energy sector and its ambition to become a central hub for energy investment across the continent. Ghana’s President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, expressed his pride in hosting the event, calling it a landmark moment…

In the early 1980s, despite facing economic struggles, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s coastal hub, became a vibrant center for live music. The city, with its population nearing one million, was still recovering from the effects of socialist Ujamaa policies and conflicts such as the 1979 war with Uganda. Yet, the night scene thrived with over 20 professional bands performing in local clubs, with “muziki wa dansi” (dance music) becoming a central cultural feature. Congolese musicians, particularly from what was then Zaire, were drawn to Tanzania’s bustling clubs and hotels in the 1960s and 1970s. Some stayed, forming groups like Orchestre…

Mali is demanding approximately $160 million from Resolute Mining Ltd. to settle a tax dispute after the Australian gold producer’s CEO, Terry Holohan, was detained along with two colleagues in Bamako. Holohan had traveled to the capital last week to meet with Mali’s tax and mining authorities. The dispute centers around allegations of back taxes following a sector-wide audit, with the government demanding 100 billion CFA francs (around $162 million) from Resolute, which operates the Syama gold mine. There have been discussions about a possible agreement where the company would pay half of the sum immediately and the rest later.…

3rd Qatar-Africa Business Forum (QABF) set to take place in Marrakech, Morocco, on November 16-17. The forum, part of the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture, will bring together over 300 policymakers, CEOs, entrepreneurs, and innovators from across Africa, Qatar, and globally. The discussions will focus on Africa’s potential as a hub for human capital and innovation, promoting sustainable, equitable partnerships between Qatar and the African continent. QNB Group has been announced as the ‘Platinum Sponsor’ for the forum. This sponsorship underscores QNB’s ongoing commitment to supporting Qatar’s initiatives for Africa’s economic development, in line with the African Union’s Agenda 2063…

Libya’s Minister of Labor and Rehabilitation, Ali Al-Abed, has called for the resumption of consultations on a memorandum of understanding with the Turkish Ministry of Labor and Social Security. The proposed agreement aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation and foster development in various sectors, according to a statement from the ministry on its official Facebook page. Al-Abed’s remarks came during a meeting with Türkiye’s Ambassador to Libya in Tripoli on Wednesday. The discussion focused on enhancing collaboration in labor and vocational training between the two nations. The minister expressed appreciation for Türkiye’s supportive stance on Libya’s stability and emphasized the importance…

Mozambique’s political tensions show no signs of easing as opposition leader Venancio Mondlane, head of the Podemos party, announced three additional days of protests. Mondlane also called on demonstrators to “invoke the right to self-defense,” escalating the already volatile post-election unrest. The government has warned of potential military intervention, citing threats to the nation’s stability. This comes amid reports that police shot at protesters during earlier demonstrations, leaving three dead and dozens injured. Protests have taken various forms, including Mozambicans banging pots and pans and chanting slogans like “This country is ours! Rescue Mozambique!” from their homes. Mondlane, who has…