Author: WAJ Editor

Angola’s President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço highlighted Africa’s growing contribution to United Nations peace missions, which have been limited by financial constraints. However, he stated that, recent developments at the UN Security Council have improved funding for African Union-led peace operations, enhancing their effectiveness. He emphasized Africa’s desire to be more involved in global decision-making, particularly in building a new international financial system that tackles illicit capital flows and facilitates asset recovery. “Angola has made progress in fighting corruption, including recovering significant assets, and praises the UK for its cooperation in returning $2.5 billion.” he said. The President criticized other…

Angola’s President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço started his speech on UN General Assembly as “It has been nearly 80 years since the UN Security Council was founded and when we look at this process, we can easily say that the UN has moved far away from its founding purposes.” “In light of this fact, we should think about what we can do from now on to make the UN Security Council more active, effective and a structure that can produce solutions for the development of international peace, cooperation and trade?” “Today, we see the UN Security Council as very weak,…

Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio emphasized the importance of this support, particularly in the Sahel region, where military coups in Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali have worsened an already severe security and humanitarian crisis. “The safety and security of people in the Sahel and parts of West Africa demand a strong commitment from all relevant stakeholders,” he stated, stressing that frontline nations, especially Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, must receive adequate assistance. He further noted that while political transitions are essential, they should not come at the cost of vulnerable populations. Bio also highlighted Africa’s longstanding marginalization in global…

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa stated that UN Security Council should be a “more representative and inclusive body.” “Seventy-eight years after its establishment, the United Nations Security Council’s structure has seen little change. Africa, with its 1.4 billion people, continues to be excluded from key decision-making. This situation is unacceptable,” he stated. “The Security Council has failed to meet its responsibility of maintaining international peace and security. Urgent reform is necessary.”

South African President Ramaphosa stated that South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) was filed as a signatory to the Genocide Convention. “We appreciate the support from several countries for our ICJ case. The ICJ’s rulings indicate a credible allegation of genocide against the people of Gaza.” “They also emphasize that states must act to prevent genocide by Israel and ensure they do not contribute to violations of the Genocide Convention through assistance,” he added. “We reaffirm our demand for an immediate ceasefire and the release of all hostages. A lasting solution lies in establishing…

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa reflected on the end of apartheid and the UN’s role in combating it during his opening speech. He emphasized that genocide is a global moral failing, just as apartheid was recognized as a crime against humanity. Ramaphosa condemned the recent Hamas attack, which resulted in significant loss of life, while also criticizing Israel’s actions against Palestinians as collective punishment. He noted the ongoing violence in Gaza, citing over 41,000 Palestinian deaths and calling the situation a continuation of decades of oppression. He insisted that South Africa, having experienced apartheid, will not stand by silently and…

Stranded for 26 hours on the N3 during a snowstorm, a group of 15 senior citizens, with their knees frozen and spirits nearly broken, clung to their faith and prayed for a miracle. The group, led by 90-year-old Dorothy Rosenberg, was returning to Johannesburg in a minibus taxi after a holiday in Port Edward on Friday. They are part of a “sister group” of friends who often travel together. Heavy snowfall in parts of Free State and KwaZulu-Natal resulted in the closure of the N3 highway in both directions, between Harrismith and the Tugela Plaza. Many in the group had…

The Zimbabwe Accountants International (ZAI) has formed a strategic partnership with the UK-based risk solutions company, Diaspora Insurance, to provide financial security for over a thousand accounting professionals globally. Founded in 2022, ZAI unites more than 1,200 members from various regions, including South Africa, Dubai, Australia, Canada, the USA, and the UK. The organization creates “an inclusive space for Zimbabwean accountants to learn from each other, stay informed about industry trends, and access global opportunities in the accounting sector.” This partnership with Diaspora Insurance allows ZAI members to access customized funeral insurance products, providing immediate financial relief during times of…

Ambassador Martins Acha, a prominent philanthropist and community leader, received the esteemed Humanitarian Award at the John Ughulu Foundation’s Annual Moral Booster Awards held at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Georgia. The event celebrated individuals making remarkable contributions to humanitarian efforts and community development. Acha was honored for his dedication to uplifting underserved communities through initiatives in education, healthcare, and economic empowerment via his Martins & Eno Acha Foundation, which provides essential resources to marginalized populations. In his acceptance speech, Acha emphasized the responsibility that accompanies such recognition: “This award inspires me to achieve even more in my career. Giving…

At least 30 bodies were discovered on a boat drifting off the coast of Senegal’s capital, according to the military on Monday, amid a rising number of migrants departing from West Africa. The navy was alerted to the vessel’s presence on Sunday evening and dispatched a patrol boat to the location, approximately 70 kilometers (38 nautical miles) from Dakar, as stated by Ibrahima Sow, a military spokesperson. “So far, we have counted 30 bodies,” Sow reported. The advanced decomposition of the bodies is complicating the identification process, and the military noted that investigations will yield further details about the death…

A Zimbabwe court has denied bail for opposition leader Jameson Timba and 64 supporters for the third time since their controversial arrest 14 weeks ago. Critics accuse the ruling ZANU-PF party of suppressing democracy and dissent since it came to power in 1980. Timba, leader of the Citizens’ Coalition for Change (CCC), was arrested at his home on June 16 during a crackdown prior to a Southern African summit in July. Although they were acquitted of disorderly conduct on September 4, the charge of participating in an unlawful gathering still stands. The magistrate ruled that there were “no new circumstances”…

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, spoke at the 79th United Nations General Assembly, emphasizing Nigeria’s long-standing dedication to international peace and security. “Since our initial deployment in the Congo in 1960, Nigeria has participated in 41 peacekeeping missions worldwide,” Badaru stated during the Summit of the Future’s interactive dialogue on enhancing multilateralism for peace and security, noting the deployment of over 200,000 troops in UN operations. He urged for reforms to the UN Security Council to ensure Africa’s representation through permanent seats, arguing that this would promote global stability. Through regional cooperation, Nigeria has taken part in peacekeeping missions…

On Sunday, Moroccan team FAR Rabat and Mali’s Djoliba AC were among five clubs to advance to the group stage of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League. FAR Rabat, who had drawn 2-2 in the first leg, secured a strong 2-0 win against Sudan’s Al Merreikh, with goals from Hammoudan and Joël Beya, ensuring Morocco has two teams in the next round alongside Raja Casablanca.Ivorian clubs had mixed results; Stade d’Abidjan progressed despite a 2-1 loss to Milo FC, having won the first leg 2-0. In contrast, San Pedro, Côte d’Ivoire’s champions, were eliminated after a goalless home draw and a…

Former Sudanese president Omer al-Bashir, along with three senior officials, has been transferred from military detention to a hospital in Merowe, Northern State, due to declining health, as reported by Bashir’s lawyer. Al-Bashir, ex-Defense Minister Abdelrahim Mohamed Hussein, and former Youth and Sports Minister Youssef Abdel Fattah were moved from the Wadi Seidna military facility after a medical report indicated they required care not available at the military hospital. Former Vice President Bakri Hassan Saleh had been transferred to the same hospital three weeks earlier. Bashir’s lawyer stated that the former president and the others are facing age-related health issues…

The Yunus Emre Institute and Turkish Cultural Centre in Johannesburg organized Turkish cooking classes that provided South African participants with a memorable experience. Over five weeks, they learned to prepare various Turkish dishes while enjoying the company of one another. In the first week, participants made Künefe, Lentil Soup, and Cacık (a yogurt and cucumber appetizer). The second week included Alinazik, Eggplant Salad, and Yayla Soup. Subsequent weeks featured Tomato Soup, Köfte (Turkish meatballs), Hummus, Sütlaç (rice pudding), Chicken Soup, and Bulgur Pilaf. During the final week, participants showcased their culinary skills by preparing the dishes they had learned. Top…

The main opposition party in Tanzania, CHADEMA, will hold a demonstration on Monday, September 23 in Dar es Salaam. High security measures have been taken since September 20 for the demonstration, which is expected to attract a large number of people. Police have closed the area where the demonstration will be held. CHADEMA’s chairman Mr. Freeman Mbowe announced today that the party’s scheduled demonstrations will take place on Monday, September 23, 2024. He stated that the protests will be peaceful and are intended to honor leaders who have disappeared or been killed under questionable circumstances. During a session on X…

The 2024/25 TotalEnergies CAF Champions League will see prominent African teams in the group stages, including defending champions Al Ahly SC, along with former title holders Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, and TP Mazembe, who all secured their spots on Saturday. In South Africa, Orlando Pirates qualified for the group stages for the first time in five years by defeating Botswana’s Jwaneng Galaxy 1-0, achieving a 3-0 aggregate victory thanks to a late goal from Monnapule Saleng. Mamelodi Sundowns also progressed, dominating Eswatini’s Mbabane Swallows with another 4-0 win, finishing with an aggregate score of 8-0. Reigning champions Al Ahly easily…

On Friday evening, Algeria’s CR Belouizdad FC became the first team to secure a spot in the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League Group Stages after a tense match against Burkinabe club AS Douanes in Algiers. Belouizdad faced a tough challenge from their opponents, who had won the first leg 1-0. Taking advantage of their home field, the Algerians equalized the aggregate score just before halftime with a stunning goal from Abderrahmane Mesiane. In the second half, both teams pressed for the crucial winning goal, but were thwarted by strong defending and goalkeeping. The match ended 1-1 on aggregate, leading to a…

Zanzibar’s President Dr. Hussein Mwinyi attended the second edition of the ‘Fahari ya Zanzibar’ festival on Friday, highlighting significant progress in reducing unemployment over the past three years. At the festival’s opening in Zanzibar’s new international trade fair area in Nyamanzi, Unguja West B District, he cited recent data from the Zanzibar Economic Empowerment Agency (ZEEA) indicating that many young people are finding employment. He noted that the success since ZEEA’s establishment in 2022 aligns with last year’s festival theme, “Empower the Citizens, Create Jobs by Strengthening the Sustainable Economy,” and supports the objectives outlined in the Chama Cha Mapinduzi…

Tanzania started the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifiers today, facing Mali at the UDSM Grounds in Dar es Salaam. The opening matches also include Cameroon against Ghana and Lesotho versus Malawi, both taking place at Gymkhana Club Ground in Dar es Salaam. The tournament will continue over the next few weeks, wrapping up at the end of the month at the Gymkhana and UDSM Oval venues. This event marks the beginning of the qualification process for the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, with teams vying for spots in the regional finals.The qualification process includes multiple stages, starting with…

Egypt has reportedly acquired Chinese J-10C fighter jets, indicating Beijing’s increasing influence in the Middle East and regional nations’ efforts to diversify their military sources, thereby reducing dependence on the United States. As reported by the Bulgarian defense news agency Bulgarian Military, Egypt placed its initial order for the J-10C “Vigorous Dragon” on August 19. This makes Egypt the second country, after Pakistan, to purchase the J-10C, a versatile 4.5-generation multirole fighter known for its advanced combat capabilities at a competitive price. The J-10C is designed for both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions and is recognized for its air superiority, drawing…

South African hip-hop artist Nadia Nakai is set to perform at a homecoming party during the Shoko Festival’s Mash Up night on Friday, September 27, in Harare, Zimbabwe’s capital. Nakai will join several artists at this long-running urban culture festival, including Kay Flow, Lalla Martin, RayKaz, the duo Shebeen Rap (Dough Major & Dingo Duke), Rutendo Jackie, and Bhekiwé. Event organizer AneUnhu emphasized the night’s focus on unity among diverse creatives. “I’m honored to participate in this unique showcase, highlighting how much we share as a nation despite our differences. This event will strengthen our creative bond through various challenges…

The Commercial Bank of Ethiopia and Visa, the credit card service company, finalized a partnership agreement on Friday to enhance their collaboration. Abe Sano, the bank’s president, and Chad Pollock, Visa’s East Africa Director, signed the agreement, which spans five years. Under this arrangement, the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia will utilize Visa services when eligible, and its employees will receive capacity-building training. The specifics of what the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia will provide in return have not been disclosed. Abe Sano highlighted the agreement’s importance for CBE clients, particularly regarding international transactions. He noted, “This strategic agreement is essential for…

The South African Weather Service has issued a Level 8 warning for ongoing adverse weather, as snowfall continues to cover the N3 highway, especially between Warden and Tugela Plaza in KwaZulu-Natal, leaving many motorists stranded for hours. The N3 highway, which connects Johannesburg and Durban, was severely impacted, with multiple sections closed and even detours becoming impassable, according to officials. Emergency services were working to assist those trapped in their vehicles, but the extent of the situation and the condition of those affected remained unclear, said N3 Toll Concession operations manager Thania Dhoogra. “Emergency services have been working tirelessly overnight…

Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the son of Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, announced on Saturday that he will not run in the 2026 presidential election and will instead support his father. Kainerugaba, who heads the Ugandan defense forces, previously indicated he might seek the presidency, but stated, “Almighty God told me to focus on His Army first,” and fully endorsed Museveni for the upcoming elections. At 80, Museveni has been in power since 1986 and has not yet confirmed whether he will pursue a seventh term. Kainerugaba asserted that “no civilian will lead Uganda after President Museveni” and suggested that the next leader…

The government of Congo-Brazzaville has announced a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with a Chinese company to initiate a hydroelectric project and dam in the region, set to begin next year. The MOU, signed with China Overseas, aims to develop the Sounda hydroelectric project, which is expected to cost approximately $9.4 billion. Officials indicated that the project will have a capacity ranging from 600 MW to 800 MW, with construction projected to finish by 2030. In 2011, China financed the construction of the Imboulou Dam and powerhouse, located north of Brazzaville, which has a capacity of 120 MW, making it the…

Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa has canceled his planned trip to the United States for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) this Friday, amid reports of distrust among his close associates. Mnangagwa was set to join other world leaders in New York for the annual event, which he has consistently attended. Security personnel who had already traveled to prepare for the visit have reportedly been called back. This cancellation follows a helicopter crash at Masvingo Airport last weekend under suspicious circumstances, which Mnangagwa was supposed to be on board. This incident has raised concerns. On Friday, presidential spokesman George Charamba announced…

A helicopter belonging to the Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) crashed shortly after taking off from Masvingo Airport on a significant day for Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who was celebrating his 82nd birthday organized by the Zanu PF Youth League. The helicopter was headed to Harare when it went down soon after departure. Fortunately, only crew members were on board, with one sustaining minor injuries, and no fatalities were reported. The Zimbabwe Youth Action Platform (ZYAP) has labeled the incident a “treasonous attack” and is calling for the death penalty for those responsible. In a media briefing in Harare, ZYAP…

According to the Tanzania Investment Centre (TIC), the value of investment projects surged by over 60 percent to $1.61 billion in the quarter ending June 2024. The agency’s latest quarterly report showed that this increase reflects a rising interest in investing in the country, which saw 198 projects initiated during this period. In the same quarter last year, TIC recorded 129 projects valued at $1 billion. The report also noted a significant rise in job creation, with 96,278 new jobs added compared to just 14,631 in the corresponding quarter the previous year. TIC’s executive director, Mr. Gilead Teri, emphasized the…

A Kenyan court decided on Friday that Meta, Facebook’s parent company, can be sued in Kenya regarding the termination of several content moderators by a contractor. Last year, the moderators filed a lawsuit against Meta and two local contractors, claiming they were fired from Sama, a firm hired to manage Facebook content, for attempting to form a union. They also alleged that they were subsequently blacklisted from reapplying for similar positions at another company, Majorel, after Facebook switched contractors. Efforts to reach an out-of-court settlement failed in October 2023. The Court of Appeal’s ruling confirmed an earlier decision from a…

Two Nigerian airports have been honored by Airport Council International (ACI Africa) for their outstanding commitment to airport emergency management and resilience. The awards were presented during the gala at the 33rd Annual General Assembly of ACI Africa held in Johannesburg, South Africa. The organizers recognized these airports for meeting industry standards and fostering a supportive environment for users. Mr. Tunde Moshood, Special Adviser to Barr. Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, identified the two airports as Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja and Port Harcourt International Airport. According to the announcement, both airports received plaques in…

On Friday, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) announced that Sierra Leone has requested a new 38-month Extended Credit Facility (ECF) worth about $253 million. The IMF indicated that its staff and Sierra Leonean authorities have reached a preliminary agreement on the economic policies and reforms that the facility could support, pending approval from the IMF’s Executive Board. “The new ECF arrangement aims to restore stability by enhancing debt sustainability, addressing fiscal imbalances, reducing inflation, and rebuilding reserves,” the IMF stated. Furthermore, the program is designed to promote inclusive growth through reforms and contribute to anti-corruption efforts, according to the announcement.

South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Sihle Zikalala announced that South Africa’s Green Hydrogen National Programme (GHNP) has attracted over R800 billion in projects since it became part of the Strategic Integrated Projects (SIPs) in 2022. Speaking at the Green Hydrogen Devac conference in Sandton, Johannesburg, he noted that approximately 20% of these investments are now at the bankable feasibility stage. Zikalala emphasized that only 1% of the country’s land is needed to support the green hydrogen economy, which will create jobs and enhance the national economy. This land is largely unsuitable for agriculture or human habitation,…

The FESTAC AFRICA Festival 2024, themed “Celebrating the Heartbeat of Africa: Culture, Unity, and Innovation,” drew participants from over 62 countries to Kisumu, Kenya. The event welcomed artists, entrepreneurs, and cultural ambassadors from across Africa and the diaspora. This week-long celebration of African music, art, fashion, cuisine, and entrepreneurship provided a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and business networking, with TV BRICS as the media partner. The festival’s opening ceremony featured speeches from notable leaders. Yinka Abioye, Chairman of FESTAC AFRICA, highlighted the festival’s importance for the continent, expressing a vision for increased collaboration and celebrating Africa’s rich heritage and…

Researchers from the Faculty of Engineering at Stellenbosch University (SU) have partnered with Roam, an electric mobility company based in Nairobi, to test the Roam Air electric motorcycle, primarily designed for urban environments.This initiative marks the first time an electric motorcycle developed in Africa will travel approximately 6,000 km powered solely by solar energy. The Roam Air is set to depart Nairobi on September 29 and is expected to reach Stellenbosch by October 18, in time for SU’s Electric Mobility Day. “Roam has donated two electric motorcycles for our research and testing,” said Professor Thinus Booysen, founder of SU’s Electric…

Zimbabwe has received a donation of 1,000 tonnes of maize meal from Rwanda in response to President Mnangagwa’s appeal following a drought caused by El Niño, which has impacted both Zimbabwe and much of Southern Africa. This support is crucial as the Zimbabwean government works to implement its strategy to mitigate food shortages and ensure national food security. During the handover ceremony in Harare, Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe expressed appreciation for Rwanda’s timely assistance. He stated that the maize meal will be distributed to vulnerable communities hit hardest by the drought, addressing urgent food needs. Minister…

On Thursday, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to establishing a strong financial system and a business-friendly environment to attract more foreign direct investment. This statement was made in Abuja as Coca-Cola Company announced its plan to increase its investments in Nigeria to $1 billion over the next five years. The announcement was made during a meeting between the President and Coca-Cola’s global leadership team, including Mr. John Murphy, the president and chief financial officer, and Ambassador Segun Apata, chairman of the Nigerian Bottling Company. Tinubu praised Coca-Cola for its long-standing partnership with Nigeria and its role in…

Two weeks after the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit, Tanzania has announced plans to propose several priority projects to secure funding from the financial commitments made by China during the summit. Ambassador Samwel Shelukindo, the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, stated that Tanzania will submit projects that have already been evaluated and studied for feasibility. “This will help reduce the time needed to secure funding for their implementation,” he noted at a meeting with Permanent Secretaries from 12 ministries. This initiative highlights Tanzania’s dedication to utilizing international partnerships to further its development…

On Thursday, Comoros President Azali Assoumani led a government cabinet meeting, marking his first public appearance since sustaining injuries in a knife attack last week, as shown in government footage. The video depicted Azali with a thick bandage on the left side of his forehead, smiling as he entered a car and arrived at the presidential compound. There, he greeted advisors and ministers before taking his seat at the cabinet table. He had received minor injuries in a knife attack on Friday during a funeral for a prominent religious leader in Salimani Itsandra, a town just north of the capital,…

Namibia has reached a bilateral agreement with China to export small livestock products like sheep and goats, and is also working on finalizing a deal for high-value fruits such as grapes, dates, blueberries, according to a government official. During the 25th Bank of Namibia symposium in Windhoek, Minister of Agriculture Water and Land Reform Calle Schlettwein underscored the significance of these agreements for enhancing Namibia’s access to lucrative markets and bolstering its agricultural sector. “Market access is crucial for agricultural products. A unique advantage for Namibia’s agriculture is its access to top-paying regional and global markets, which is supported by…

Sudan’s army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have stated their openness to peaceful solutions to the conflict that has lasted over 17 months, responding to U.S. President Joe Biden’s call for renewed talks. Army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan declared on Wednesday that the Sudanese government is receptive to any constructive efforts aimed at ending the war. RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo echoed this sentiment early Thursday. “We reaffirm our commitment to ceasefire negotiations. We believe dialogue is the path to peace, not random violence, and we will continue to pursue peace processes to secure a future free from…

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has once again highlighted Africa’s call for permanent representation on the UN Security Council (UNSC). He stressed that it is unacceptable for a continent of 1.3 billion people to lack representation. While speaking to reporters at the Africa Aerospace and Defense Exhibition Airshow at Waterkloof Airforce Base in Centurion, Ramaphosa asserted that Africa not only deserves a permanent seat but also veto power to avoid being treated as a “second-class” participant. “It is a significant injustice that we are not represented, but our advocacy is gaining traction,” he stated. “We have the capability and knowledge,…

On Wednesday, Somalia announced the capture of a senior al-Shabaab member in the central Galgadud region. The Somali National Army (SNA) detained Ali Geelle, a prominent figure within the militant group, during a military operation in Galhareeri district. The operation also resulted in the confiscation of a vehicle, a firearm, and ammunition. Geelle is reported to have been involved in extortion and the recruitment of children for the organization. For the past two and a half years, the SNA, alongside local militias, has been engaged in combat against al-Shabaab in southern and central Somalia, reclaiming significant territory, including the strategic…

Following a six-day visit to Kenya, an International Monetary Fund (IMF) staff team has provided an update on the development of policies to address the country’s financial challenges. This comes in the wake of the Finance Bill 2024 being rejected and anti-tax protests led by GenZ. The IMF reported that discussions with the Kenyan government focused on policies and reforms needed to tackle the evolving economic and fiscal issues. Team leader Haimanot Teferra stated, “The Kenyan authorities and IMF staff had productive discussions on policies and reforms to address these challenges.” In 2021, Kenya secured a four-year loan agreement with…

Russia has tentatively agreed to construct a fuel pipeline in the Republic of Congo, connecting the western port of Pointe-Noire to the capital, Brazzaville, according to Reuters. A government decree states that a joint venture will be created for the pipeline project, with Russia owning a 90% share. Details such as technical and financial aspects will be specified in a concession agreement. Russia will provide funding, equipment, and personnel for the pipeline’s construction and will also supply fuel if necessary. In exchange, the Republic of Congo is expected to offer various tax incentives. This initiative is part of Russia’s broader…

Botswana has granted Giyani Metals (EMM.V) a 15-year mining license, as announced on Wednesday, enabling the company to become the nation’s first producer of battery-grade manganese. Manganese is essential for batteries, and its demand is anticipated to rise with the growth of electric vehicles and other clean energy technologies. Giyani’s Kgwakwe Hill (K.Hill) project will process manganese oxide on-site to produce high-purity manganese sulfate, positioning it among the few battery-grade manganese initiatives outside of China, which currently holds 90% of the global high-purity manganese market. The K.Hill mine is expected to produce an initial annual output of 80,000 metric tons…

There’s less than a week remaining for Gabon’s lawmakers to submit their proposed changes to the nation’s future constitution, with a deadline set for September 22. A draft of the new constitution was presented to transitional President General Brice Oligui Nguema earlier this month. This occurred a year after the military removed President Ali Bongo, whose family had been in power for over 50 years. Last week, civil society groups proposed key amendments, including reducing the presidential term from seven to five years and relaxing what they consider “discriminatory” eligibility criteria for presidential candidates. They also expressed concerns about a…

A film produced by South African broadcaster Anele Mdoda, who served as the executive producer through her company, garnered high praise at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in Canada. Mdoda expressed her pride, stating, “Our hearts are beaming with pride following the exceptional reception that our film received during its screening at TIFF.” The South African film Don’t Let’s Go to the Dogs Tonight made its Canadian debut at TIFF last Thursday. The film was produced by Rose and Oaks Media, a company co-founded by Mdoda, Frankie Du Toit, and Paul Buys. Mdoda celebrated the film’s success on…

Despite not having its own diamond resources, Israel ranks among the top five exporters of polished diamonds. How is this possible? A Kimberley Process report—an international effort to prevent conflict diamonds from entering the market—reveals that six of the ten largest diamond-producing countries are in Africa, where many areas are embroiled in conflicts over diamond-rich regions. In recent decades, Israel has strategically increased its involvement in Africa through investments, benefiting significantly from Africa’s diamond mines. Allegedly, Israeli companies linked to the military have acquired diamonds and other minerals at reduced prices through trades involving military equipment, thereby boosting Israel’s diamond…

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is preparing to conduct a series of investor meetings and roadshows to secure over $12 billion in capital required for the construction of the 1,000+ km Abidjan-Lagos highway. Chris Appiah, Acting Director of the Directorate of Transport in the ECOWAS Commission’s Department of Infrastructure, Energy, and Digitalisation, announced that a recent four-day technical workshop with road engineers from Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Nigeria, and Togo successfully completed the Detailed Technical Design Study for the Abidjan-Lagos Corridor Project. This session involved a thorough review of the technical designs and drawings. The workshop’s goal…

On Monday, Hussein Nayil Ahmed, the Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority, met with Mohammed Ibrahim Al-Sada, the Ambassador of Qatar. Their discussion, which focused on advancing airspace openness and enhancing cooperation in civil aviation, underscored Qatar’s strong commitment to supporting Sudan in rebuilding war-torn areas. The meeting, held in a warm and collaborative atmosphere, explored plans for establishing a modern air navigation center in Portsudan and enhancing capacity-building for Civil Aviation Authority staff. They also discussed expanding Portsudan International Airport’s runway by 500 meters and extending aircraft parking facilities. Additionally, they highlighted the need for global aircraft maintenance…

The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers a potential solution for addressing disputed elections in Zimbabwe, provided the authorities effectively adopt and utilize the technology, according to a local elections monitoring organization. AI can enhance various electoral processes, including improving voter registration through biometric methods and increasing transparency in ballot counting. In a statement for International Democracy Day (IDD) on September 15, the Zimbabwe Election Support Network (ZESN) highlighted AI’s potential to transform the electoral landscape in Zimbabwe, which has a history of contested election results. This year’s IDD theme was “Artificial Intelligence As a Tool for Good Governance”. ZESN…

The 5th edition of the BEAUTYISTANBUL Exhibition will be held in 2-3-4 October 2024, in Taksim, Istanbul. The exhibition set to reach 1100 exhibitor from 60 countries, including several African countries such as Algeria, Benin, Ethiopia and South Africa. In latest years, BEAUTYISTANBUL took attention of over 50 companies from Kenya, South Africa and Uganda. BEAUTYISTANBUL ranks among the top five largest cosmetics exhibitions in the world and is the most international event in the industry, drawing trade visitors from 169 countries. The exhibition is renowned as the premier event for buyers from Africa, the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and…