Author: WAJ Editor

The Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo (SNPC), Congo’s national oil company, has joined forces with the State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan (SOCAR) to modernize the CORAF refinery, a significant asset in the Republic of Congo’s energy sector. The partnership was formalized through a contract signed by SOCAR Downstream Management, a subsidiary of SOCAR, and SNPC during the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2024 conference in Cape Town. This modernization project aims to increase the refinery’s capacity and enhance the quality of its products, ensuring compliance with updated environmental standards. Through improved operations and best…

Mirjana Spoljaric, President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), concluded her visit to Sudan, focusing on measures to address the severe humanitarian crisis impacting millions across the country. “The humanitarian crisis in Sudan is primarily a result of the disregard for the laws of war. More than eight million people have been displaced, left without essential services, and thousands have lost contact with family members. Without urgent intervention, the consequences of this conflict could persist for decades,” stated Spoljaric. During her visit, Spoljaric met with General Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, President of Sudan’s Sovereign Council, emphasizing the need…

Morocco and France accused of disregarding UN decolonization resolutions on Western Sahara, and reviving the colonial practices and injustices of the 19th century. It is argued that France, by ignoring international law, has granted control over Western Sahara to Morocco without merit or authority, driven solely by colonial motives. This act, disrespects UN resolutions and undermines both the UN Security Council—where France is a permanent member—and European judicial authority. It is further claimed that Morocco and France are “master and pupil” in restoring 19th-century colonial rule over Western Sahara, with France allegedly supporting Morocco’s control since 1975. It is emphasized…

Washington State University (WSU) is spearheading a $35 million initiative funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to improve animal vaccine delivery in Kenya, Tanzania, and Nepal. Over the next five years, WSU’s new Feed the Future Veterinary Vaccine Delivery Innovation Lab will focus on advancing vaccines for livestock diseases affecting cattle, sheep, goats, and chickens in these regions. The program, led by WSU veterinary professor Felix Lankester, aims to boost the health and economic well-being of livestock-dependent communities. “Livestock play a crucial role in the livelihoods of people in lower- and middle-income countries,” Lankester said. “By improving…

Chain Reactions Africa, a top Public Relations and Marketing Communications Consultancy in Nigeria, had a stellar performance at the 2024 Brandcom Awards, held recently in Lagos. The event, organized by Brand Communicator magazine, gathered key figures in Nigeria’s marketing communications sector, including industry leaders, innovators, and upcoming talents. Chain Reactions Africa walked away with four prestigious awards: Most Outstanding Strategic Communications Consultancy of the Year, Most Outstanding PR Agency of the Year, Most Outstanding Public Relations Agency in the Political and Public Sector, and CEO of the Year in Public Relations, awarded to the firm’s Managing Director and Chief Strategist,…

Mauritius’ government recently shut down social media access in the lead-up to the November 10, 2024 general election. This unprecedented move, reversed within 24 hours following local and international backlash, shocked many as Mauritius is often regarded as a democratic model in Africa. The ban was triggered by leaked audio clips allegedly involving the prime minister, police commissioner, ministers, and judiciary members discussing topics such as police brutality and institutional interference. These sensitive conversations, initially dismissed by the prime minister as AI-manipulated, continued to spread online, prompting authorities to impose the ban under the justification of “national security.” The social…

The Nigerian Tax Reform Bill, currently under review in the National Assembly, has stirred significant debate. The tax reform bill has been introduced by the federal government as a plan to spur economic growth by altering how taxes, especially Value Added Tax (VAT) and excise duties, are collected and allocated among Nigeria’s states. The National Economic Council (NEC), led by state governors, recently urged President Bola Tinubu to reconsider the bill, warning that it risks centralizing fiscal control and limiting states’ capacity to effectively serve their citizens. What Does This Tax Reform Aim to Achieve? The federal government promotes the…

The Nigerian government has refuted claims of widespread arrests and harassment of Nigerians residing in Libya, following recent sanctions by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) against the Libyan national team. In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs assured that Nigerians in Libya are safe, emphasizing the government’s dedication to their protection. “Nigerians in Libya continue with their daily lives without any harassment from Libyan authorities,” the ministry noted, addressing concerns after the CAF ruling, which penalized the Libyan Football Federation for allegedly mistreating the Nigerian team in Benghazi during an African Cup of Nations qualifier. CAF had awarded…

Serbian Parliament Speaker Ana Brnabic expressed gratitude to Egypt for its support on key issues important to Serbia, particularly for respecting Belgrade’s stance that Kosovo-Metohija remains part of Serbian territory. Her comments followed a meeting in Belgrade with Egyptian Senate President Abdel-Wahab Abdel-Razeq. Brnabic highlighted the significant potential for deepening bilateral relations, noting Abdel-Razeq’s five-day visit as a testament to the strong bond between Serbia and Egypt. “This visit by the Senate President is paving the way for further cooperation, following high-level exchanges,” Brnabic said, referencing Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic’s meeting with the Egyptian President in 2022, during which a…

South African e-commerce logistics company Pargo is making its debut in Egypt, launching its Collect and Return services at over 500 Pargo Points, including locations at Fawry, Circle-K, and Basata stores. This expansion is supported by a $4 million funding round aimed at scaling operations and meeting the demand for cost-effective delivery solutions in Egypt’s burgeoning e-commerce market. Pargo’s innovative logistics model relies on a network of pickup points, helping to lower delivery costs by consolidating orders and reducing instances of missed deliveries. The expansion into Egypt represents Pargo’s first significant international move, with Noon being one of its initial…

As Nigeria grapples with the challenges of economic growth and development, strategic estate planning has emerged as a crucial factor in securing the nation’s financial future. Proper estate planning ensures that individuals’ hard-earned assets are preserved and transferred smoothly, reducing potential conflicts and fostering family unity. Despite its importance, many Nigerians neglect this essential practice, leaving their families exposed to unnecessary disputes and financial instability. Although exact statistics on the number of Nigerians without a will are lacking, it is evident that proactive wealth management is vital in addressing the growing wealth disparity in the country. Consequences of Ignoring Estate…

South Africa is set to take on the G20 presidency in 2025, marking a significant diplomatic milestone for the country and a pivotal opportunity for Africa as a whole, according to the United Nations. The G20, which includes 19 nations and the European Union (EU) along with the recently admitted African Union (AU), accounts for 85% of the global economy, 75% of world trade, and 67% of the global population. The UN highlights that South Africa’s presidency will uniquely position it to influence global policy and advocate for African interests. Under the theme “fostering solidarity, equality, and sustainable development,” South…

The Ghana Freedom Party (GFP) has officially withdrawn from the upcoming general elections scheduled for December 7, 2024, in a tribute to its late founder and presidential candidate, Akua Donkor. In a statement signed by National Organiser Richard Botchway, the GFP expressed that this difficult decision aims to honor Donkor’s life and her contributions to the party and Ghanaian politics. “We are formally notifying the Commission of our intention not to participate in the elections,” the statement addressed to the Electoral Commission stated. “This decision, although challenging, has been made to posthumously recognize the dedication and sacrifices of our late…

Kenyan President William Ruto hosted high-level bilateral talks with senior Chinese official Li Xi at State House in Nairobi on Monday, as Kenya seeks China’s support to join the BRICS group of emerging economies. During the discussions, President Ruto emphasized Kenya’s commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with China, reaffirming Kenya’s support for the “One China” policy and vowing to deepen collaboration on various development initiatives. Ruto formally requested China’s backing for Kenya’s bid to join BRICS—a group currently comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, representing roughly 28% of the global economy. The bloc was originally formed in…

South Africa and the United Kingdom have agreed to enhance trade and defense cooperation, following a meeting between their foreign ministers on Tuesday. The two nations aim to strengthen economic growth, with a particular focus on rural job creation and increased South African exports to the UK. As Britain’s top trading partner in Africa, South Africa exported goods worth 133 billion rand ($7.62 billion) to the UK last year, including precious metals, vehicles, and agricultural products. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy, joined by South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola, emphasized the commitment to a “UK-South Africa growth plan” to reinvigorate…

In a significant step to protect children from malaria, Sudan’s Federal Ministry of Health has, for the first time, introduced malaria vaccines across the country, in partnership with UNICEF, WHO, and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. The program officially launched today with the first batch of 186,000 doses arriving in October. The vaccines will initially reach health facilities in 15 localities in Gedaref and Blue Nile states, aiming to immunize over 148,000 children under 12 months. Nationwide expansion is planned for 2025-2026 to cover 129 localities. Dr. Heitham Mohamed Ibrahim Awadallah, Sudan’s Federal Minister of Health, marked this milestone by emphasizing…

African leaders and energy officials renewed their commitment to the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline (AAGP), a $26 billion project set to connect 13 African nations. Launched in 2016 during King Mohammed VI of Morocco’s visit to Nigeria, the AAGP unites the West African Gas Pipeline Extension Project with the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline Project. During an ECOWAS Inter-Ministerial Meeting in Abuja, Nigeria, officials underscored the pipeline’s transformative potential for regional economies. Mele Kyari, CEO of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, stressed the importance of collaboration to advance the project. Spanning over 7,000 kilometers from Nigeria to Morocco, the AAGP aims…

Burkina Faso’s President, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, attended the conclusion of the 35th International Tour of Faso, where Moroccan cyclist Mohcine El Kouraji claimed the iconic yellow jersey after a series of challenging stages. President Traoré praised El Kouraji’s outstanding performance and resilience throughout the competition. The President also commended the organizers and contributors to the Tour of Faso for their hard work and dedication, noting that the annual event draws cycling fans and fosters bonds between Burkina Faso and participating nations. He further expressed his appreciation for the Burkinabé security forces, whose professionalism ensured the safety of recent major events…

Heirs Energies, a prominent African energy company, has confirmed its participation in African Energy Week (AEW) 2024, running from November 4-8 in Cape Town, South Africa. CEO Osa Igiehon will represent the company at the event, which brings together key stakeholders, government officials, and investors to discuss the future of Africa’s energy landscape under the theme “Investment in African Energies: Energy Growth Through Enabling Environment.” Igiehon will engage in critical discussions, including a fireside chat on Nigeria’s upstream energy sector, a panel on opportunities for Nigerian independent operators, and a roundtable focused on Africa’s green energy future, where he will…

In a recent phone call, Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Aaty expressed strong support for Sudan’s institutions, sovereignty, and territorial integrity in talks with Sudan’s new Acting Foreign Minister, Ali al-Sharif. Abdel Aaty congratulated al-Sharif on his appointment, underscoring the longstanding and unique relationship between Egypt and Sudan, rooted in shared history and mutual interests. The ministers discussed Sudan’s current challenges, with Abdel Aaty reaffirming Egypt’s commitment to supporting Sudan through this critical period.

The M23 rebel group, took control of Kamandi Gite, a strategic town in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) near the Ugandan border, on Sunday, November 3. Kamandi Gite, located on the shores of Lake Edward, provides a key route to Beni City. Following the takeover, local media reported that a significant number of residents were displaced as a result of clashes between M23 forces and local self-defense militias known as Wezalendo, which are allied with the DRC military. The renewed hostilities come amid ongoing peace efforts led by Angola, which is mediating talks between Rwanda and the DRC as…

Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed ceasefire efforts and humanitarian issues in Gaza, Lebanon, and Sudan in a recent phone call. The talks focused on achieving an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and addressing worsening humanitarian conditions, with Abdelatty condemning Israel’s actions that obstruct aid and UNRWA operations. He stressed the need for empowering the Palestinian Authority and unifying the West Bank and Gaza as a single Palestinian entity to advance a two-state solution. In Lebanon, the officials discussed political and security concerns, including the need to de-escalate tensions and fully implement UN Resolution…

The Al-Zaitouna Cultural Association has announced the third Sidi M’hamed Ben Aouda International Documentary Film Festival, set to take place in Relizane, Algeria, from December 11 to 14, 2024. This festival, Algeria’s first dedicated to documentary films, will showcase long and short documentaries from over 16 countries, with cinematic contributions from 33 nations worldwide. Film enthusiasts are encouraged to follow the festival’s official page for updates, event details, and special highlights, as the event promises a rich lineup of global stories and visual experiences.

Egypt is hosting a significant forum to promote sustainable urban development and strengthen partnerships between local and international organizations. The discussions and insights gathered here will help shape the final declaration for the upcoming World Urban Forum 12 (WUF12), which focuses on enhancing urban resilience and sustainability. This event underscores Egypt’s role as a leader in sustainable urban growth and highlights its commitment to the global conversation on the future of cities.

Niger’s road transporters are voicing concerns over frequent terrorist attacks along routes crossing the Burkina Faso border. The most recent incident occurred last Friday when a convoy of goods trucks was attacked around 30 kilometers from Téra in the Tillabéri region. Since the closure of the Benin border, Nigerien truck drivers have depended on the Burkina Faso route to transport goods from the port of Lomé. In response to the attack, the Union of Transport and Related Workers of Niger (Uttan) is urging authorities to reopen the Benin border. Uttan’s Secretary-General, Gamathié Mahamadou, emphasized the union’s call for government action.

Woodhall Capital has signed a $25 million loan agreement with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) to support Nigerian SMEs in expanding into export markets. The deal was announced at the first Afreximbank SME Development Workshop held in Lagos, themed “Nurturing African SMEs: Bridging the Barriers to Export.” Opening the event, Kanayo Awani, Afreximbank’s Executive Vice President of Intra-African Trade & Export Development, emphasized the importance of empowering SMEs, calling them the “backbone of Africa’s economy.” Awani noted that around 60% of SMEs face financial access challenges, highlighting the collaboration with Woodhall Capital as a key step toward overcoming these obstacles…

Gambian political stakeholders are being advised to closely monitor campaign statements from political parties in Senegal ahead of its National Assembly elections, as some proposals could impact the future of the Senegambia Bridge. This bridge currently serves as a crucial foreign exchange source for The Gambia, with Senegalese users paying in CFA currency. However, certain Senegalese parties are advocating for alternative port facilities in Casamance, which would allow travel between northern and southern Senegal by sea instead of using the bridge. If such plans were implemented, The Gambia could see a significant drop in revenue from bridge tolls. Experts suggest…

Protesters in Mozambique’s border town of Ressano Garcia seized trucks and used them to block the main highway connecting to South Africa on Monday, according to Trans African Concessions, the operator of the N4 route. Public buses were halted, forcing passengers to walk, and protesters set tires alight near a toll plaza outside Maputo, causing minor damage. Authorities advised travelers to avoid crossing the border until the situation stabilizes. The protests follow Mozambique’s October 9 elections, which saw the ruling party extend its decades-long hold on power, with presidential candidate Daniel Chapo winning 71% of the vote. Independent candidate Venâncio…

Equatorial Guinea’s Director General of the National Financial Investigation Agency (ANIF) has been arrested amid a scandal involving over 400 sextapes featuring wives and sisters of prominent figures. The tapes, found during a fraud investigation, were reportedly recorded in his office and home, and have since been leaked online, sparking public outrage. The official, Baltasar Ebang Engonga, also known as “Bello,” allegedly filmed intimate encounters with several married women, including the wife of the Director General of Police, a relative of the President, and about 20 ministers’ wives. A local media outlet, Ahora EG, reported that some scenes took place…

The National Mining Company (NMC) inaugurated its new Board of Directors today at Petroleum House in Entebbe, marking a significant move towards advancing Uganda’s commercial interests in the mineral sector. The new board is expected to enhance national participation in mining while fostering partnerships with the private sector to increase revenue and align mineral development with Uganda’s broader economic goals. Modeled on the structure of the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), which manages state interests in petroleum, the NMC was established to strengthen the government’s commercial presence in mining. The board, led by Chairperson James Mukasa Ssebugenyi and Vice Chairperson…

ECOWAS is set to convene from November 5-8, 2024, in Lomé, Togo, for critical meetings aimed at reforming air transport across West Africa. This initiative responds to directives from the 65th Heads of State Summit in July 2024 and seeks to address ongoing challenges in the aviation sector, with a focus on reducing operational costs and harmonizing safety protocols to boost regional connectivity and economic collaboration. The meetings will kick off with expert-level consultations before culminating in a high-level ministerial session on November 8. Participants will discuss strategies to lower aviation fees and taxes while standardizing safety measures, enhancing the…

Algerian energy company Sonatrac announced on Sunday that it successfully delivered its first shipment of natural gas to a Czech company last October, following a recently signed contract between the two parties. The natural gas is transported via a pipeline connecting Algeria to Italy, marking the culmination of two years of productive negotiations. This contract establishes a foundation for future collaboration with the Czech firm, Shaz, aiming to strengthen long-term relations between the two companies, according to Sonatrac’s statement.

Gambia’s Minister of Finance, Seedy Keita, is set to present the 2025 revenue and expenditure estimates on November 15, 2024, as part of the Fourth Ordinary Session of the National Assembly. The session will run from November 15 to December 23, 2024, according to the Office of the Clerk. The presentation will cover the budget period from January 1 to December 31, 2025. Following the presentation, a pre-budget retreat will take place from November 15 to 18, 2024, allowing for consultations with portfolio ministries and stakeholders regarding the budget estimates from November 19 to 23, 2024. The Finance and Public…

Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) has committed $50 million to expand its bottling operations in Namibia, launching a new production line capable of producing 27,000 bottles per hour. This investment is set to increase the plant’s production capacity by 30% and bolster growth throughout the company’s supply chain. The initiative includes the installation of a state-of-the-art water treatment facility featuring advanced water recovery technology to minimize water consumption. Additionally, the upgrade integrates AI-driven technology, which will require specialized employee training, helping to build a workforce prepared for future industry demands. Pottie de Bruyn, CCBA’s General Manager in Namibia, emphasized that the…

The University of Liberia Faculty Association (ULFA) announced it will not resume classes for the new academic year until a new president is appointed and critical demands for better working conditions, fair wages, and institutional reforms are addressed. This decision was made at a recent General Assembly on the Fendall Campus, where over 400 faculty members gathered. Led by ULFA President Dr. Edna G. Johnny, the meeting centered on long-standing grievances, including unmet commitments from a 2021 agreement with the government. Key issues include the completion of a promised 40% salary increase, delayed salaries, inadequate working conditions, and lack of…

Sub-Saharan Africa faces a unique paradox: a severe shortage of healthcare workers (HCWs) alongside high HCW unemployment. Despite carrying 25% of the world’s disease burden, the region has just 3% of the global health workforce, with projections indicating a 6.1 million HCW shortfall by 2030. Economic constraints, workforce distribution challenges, and a brain drain to wealthier nations exacerbate the gap. To address this, five key strategies are proposed: data-driven workforce planning, improved HCW training, private-sector partnerships to create jobs, targeted incentives to retain HCWs in rural areas, and digital solutions to boost productivity. These shifts aim to reshape healthcare delivery…

Egypt has reiterated its opposition to any unilateral actions taken by Nile Basin countries regarding shared water resources. Egyptian Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam emphasized Egypt’s commitment to cooperation with African nations and support for development across the Nile Basin, stressing adherence to international laws governing transboundary waters. Sewilam’s remarks were made on Sunday at a certificate ceremony for 19 African participants in the “River Basin Management” training program held at Egypt’s African Training Center for Water and Climate Adaptation (PACWA). The minister underscored the need for a unified, collaborative approach in managing shared water resources, facilitated…

The United States has delivered a $5.5 million United Nations Level 2 hospital to Uganda, aimed at bolstering the nation’s military medical capacity for peacekeeping and humanitarian operations. This 22-bed mobile facility includes specialized dental and surgical suites, making it adaptable for rapid deployment in response to regional crises. This is the second such facility provided by the US to Uganda, according to US Africa Command (Africom). The first hospital was instrumental in Uganda’s COVID-19 response, saving thousands of lives, including civilians, Africom noted. To ensure effective deployment, soldiers from the Uganda People’s Defence Force underwent extensive training at the…

The United Nations Security Council is set to receive an update in November from ICC Prosecutor Karim Khan regarding the latest developments in Libya, according to the Security Council Report website. Khan’s briefing will highlight ongoing efforts by the ICC to bring accountability and justice for crimes committed within Libya. A key focus of the session will be recent actions involving arrest warrants for individuals tied to the “Kaniyat” militia. Additionally, the briefing may feature testimonies from Libyan civil society representatives to offer first-hand insights into current conditions. In his last briefing to the Council in May, Khan outlined a…

In a recent report, Kenyans have been ranked as the world’s top social media users in 2024, spending an average of 3 hours and 43 minutes on social platforms each day. This finding, shared by World of Statistics on November 3, is based on data from Cable.co.uk and We Are Social. Following Kenya, South Africa ranks second with an average daily usage of 3 hours and 37 minutes, while Brazil comes in third at 3 hours and 34 minutes. The Philippines closely follows with 3 hours and 33 minutes of daily engagement. Nigeria rounds out the top five with an…

A military helicopter crash in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), claimed the lives of all crew members on Wednesday, according to reports from local media and the DRC Airway Authority (RVA). The helicopter, operated by the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC), went down on the runway at Ndolo Airport around 11 a.m. local time. All three individuals on board, including the pilot, co-pilot, and a technician—all reportedly expatriates—did not survive. The pilot was found deceased on-site, while the co-pilot and technician succumbed to their injuries en route to the hospital, as confirmed by…

Mauritius announced on Saturday the reversal of its decision to block social media platforms in the lead-up to its general election, a move that was initially implemented following a wiretapping scandal. The social media ban had been enforced for 24 hours, preventing users on the Indian Ocean island from accessing platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X, and was originally set to last until November 11, the day after the elections. The ban was triggered by the release of secret recordings featuring conversations among politicians, journalists, civil society members, and even foreign diplomats that began circulating online last month.…

Abdullah Al-Lafi, Libyan Deputy Head of the Presidential Council, stated on Friday that the resolution to Libya’s ongoing issues must be “nationally owned,” reflecting a collective will and shared aspirations among its people. He emphasized that this approach is essential for achieving the peace and stability that Libyans desire. Al-Lafi’s remarks followed the UN Security Council’s decision to extend the mandate of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya until January 31, aligning with the expiration of its previous mandate on October 31. He noted on his Facebook page that the Security Council discussions highlighted a significant divide in international…

Niger’s government is challenging a decision by the French nuclear fuel company Orano to stop uranium production in the country, according to a document from state partner Sopamin. Last month, Orano announced it would halt operations as of Thursday due to challenging conditions and financial concerns. Sopamin, a Nigerien state company, is a co-shareholder with Orano in Somair, the only remaining site where Orano was active until the shutdown. The government had earlier withdrawn a permit for one of the world’s largest uranium deposits, Imouraren, and restricted uranium exports due to security-related border closures with Benin. Sopamin expressed frustration that…

The Democratic Republic of Congo’s military announced Friday it had successfully freed 118 hostages from the ADF rebel in an operation on Wednesday. Among those rescued were 89 men, 25 women, and four children. The military said the hostages were liberated during a patrol mission near the village of Mont Hoyo in northeastern Ituri province, where troops engaged in combat with the rebels, ultimately securing the captives’ release.

On November 2, protests erupted across Mozambique, including in the capital, Maputo, as demonstrators clashed with police over the contested presidential election results. Hundreds gathered in the streets to protest the victory of ruling Frelimo party candidate Daniel Chapo, who won with nearly 71% of the vote in the October 9 election, which the opposition claims was “stolen” and marred by widespread irregularities, according to international observers. In Maputo, police used tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse the crowd, journalists reported. Meanwhile, similar clashes unfolded in the northern province of Nampula, where hundreds of residents protested. Local taxi driver…

An exhibition in Morocco is shedding light on the ancient history of Chellah, an archaeological site near Rabat that showcases Morocco’s diverse cultural heritage. Held at the central bank museum, the exhibition explores the “hidden treasures” of Chellah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site spanning 3.15 square kilometers—nearly five times the size of Pompeii. Archaeologists consider Chellah, once a lively port city, to be a vital link to Morocco’s past, shaped by civilizations including the Phoenicians, Amazigh, Romans, and Arabs. Museum director Rochdi Bernoussi highlighted the exhibition’s aim to convey the site’s historical importance, noting that it allows visitors a closer…

After 156 years, a historic shield belonging to Emperor Tewodros II has been returned to Ethiopia from the UK, marking a milestone in Ethiopia’s cultural heritage restitution efforts. The shield, looted during the 1868 Magdala War, was initially set to be auctioned but was pulled following interventions by the Ethiopian government, Ethiopian media reported Friday. Officials from the Ethiopian Heritage Protection Authority and descendants of Magdala War veterans attended the ceremonial handover. The Royal Ethiopian Trust (RET) led the recovery process, negotiating with the UK-based auction house Anderson & Garland. The Battle of Magdala, part of the British Expedition to…

On Saturday, the UK’s Conservative Party elected Kemi Badenoch as its new leader, making her the first Black leader of a major political party in the country. The former equalities minister and known “anti-woke” advocate succeeds Rishi Sunak, taking on the challenge of revitalizing a party that suffered a decisive defeat in July after 14 years in office. Badenoch, 44, won 57% of the vote, defeating former immigration minister Robert Jenrick. Accepting her new role, she acknowledged the challenges ahead, stating, “The task before us is tough. It is time to renew.” Prime Minister Keir Starmer congratulated Badenoch on X,…

The Chadian government has firmly denied claims that its military targeted civilians in recent airstrikes on the Lake Chad region, following reports from local sources that fishermen in Nigeria were killed during the operation. In response to a Boko Haram attack that killed over 40 soldiers at a Chadian military base, Chad’s army launched an air raid on Wednesday targeting Tilma Island, located on the Nigerian side of Lake Chad. Fishermen and a local militia group alleged that the strike resulted in civilian casualties, but the Chadian government rejected these accusations. Chad’s spokesperson, Abderaman Koulamallah, stated that military actions were…

Uganda and Mali have formalized a military cooperation agreement aimed at enhancing regional security and countering shared security threats. The agreement was signed by Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, and his Malian counterpart, Maj. Gen. Oumar Diarra, during a ceremony at the Special Forces Command (SFC) headquarters in Entebbe. The partnership will focus on intelligence sharing, joint training exercises, and other defense initiatives to address security challenges faced by both nations. Gen. Muhoozi highlighted that the agreement underscores a growing bond between Uganda and Mali, with the goal of improving stability and tackling security issues that affect…

Algeria plans to increase its rail network threefold by 2030 to enhance national economic growth and improve regional connectivity. Currently operating over 5,000 kilometers of rail, the introduction of new routes like the Kenchela-Constantine line is facilitating quicker travel, linking communities, and generating economic opportunities. This expansion includes key freight and passenger lines, which help alleviate road congestion and enhance access to isolated areas. Algeria’s investments are setting the stage for a future with improved connectivity, positioning rail as a key component of sustainable transportation and economic progress.

Google has committed £2.8 million (N2.8 billion) to advance Nigeria’s AI capabilities as part of a strategic partnership aimed at accelerating the country’s digital transformation. Bosun Tijani, Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, announced the initiative during a press briefing in Abuja, underscoring the investment as one of the largest in West Africa’s tech landscape. This initiative is set to establish Nigeria as a leading AI hub in Africa, providing extensive AI training, creating research facilities, fostering industry partnerships, and supporting tech startups in key Nigerian hubs. The programme is expected to train over 20,000 AI developers and…

French President Emmanuel Macron has officially acknowledged that Larbi Ben M’hidi, a prominent leader in Algeria’s War of Independence, was killed by French soldiers following his arrest in 1957. This announcement, made by the French presidency on the 70th anniversary of Algeria’s revolt against colonial rule, is seen as another step in Macron’s efforts to foster reconciliation with the former French colony. Ben M’hidi, a founding member of the National Liberation Front (FLN), was one of the key figures in the movement that led to Algeria’s independence. According to the French presidency, while the official story claimed he died by…

Djibouti will host the Third Ministerial Review Conference of the Türkiye-Africa Partnership from November 2-3, 2024. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan will lead the event, further solidifying Türkiye’s role as a key partner to the African Union since 2008. The Türkiye-Africa Partnership summits, held regularly, establish strategic plans and roadmaps for the next five years of cooperation. The last summit took place in Istanbul in December 2021, and the next is scheduled for an African country in 2026. This conference marks the first visit of a Turkish Foreign Minister to Djibouti and will include bilateral discussions with counterparts from 14…

South African businesses are working to deepen trade and investment ties with Nigeria, a key West African trading partner primarily exporting crude oil to South Africa. The South Africa-Nigeria Joint Ministerial Advisory Council on Industry, Trade, and Investment (JMACITI), established in late 2021 by both governments and private sector players, aims to highlight business opportunities and address trade barriers between the two countries. Recently, South African companies launched a video showcasing the country’s investment landscape to attract Nigerian firms. Lungisa Fuzile, regional CEO of Standard Bank Group, emphasized that cooperation between South Africa and Nigeria—two of sub-Saharan Africa’s largest economies—can…

The International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Bureau for Employers’ Activities (ACT/EMP) is strengthening Zimbabwe’s private sector by enhancing its advocacy efforts to foster economic growth through private enterprise. In collaboration with the Employers Confederation of Zimbabwe (EMCOZ), ACT/EMP observed that while EMCOZ has prioritized labor relations, a broader, unified approach involving trade, agriculture, mining, and banking sectors is essential to drive Zimbabwe’s socio-economic development. At a recent ILO-supported workshop in Harare, representatives from Employer and Business Membership Organizations (EBMOs) highlighted the need for a Cooperation Framework Agreement to create a unified private sector voice in policy advocacy. Participants agreed to move…

The United States, through the CDC, has donated 5,000 laboratory test kits valued at $265,000 (approximately Shs970 million) to Uganda’s Ministry of Health to aid Mpox diagnosis as cases rise in the country. During the handover, U.S. Ambassador William W. Popp emphasized the need for resources, noting that skilled personnel require proper tools to effectively manage the outbreak. “This donation is part of our broader $4 million initiative to enhance surveillance, risk communication, and contact tracing,” Ambassador Popp added. Health Minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng expressed gratitude for the U.S. support, affirming Uganda’s commitment to controlling the outbreak, with over…

Nigerian Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo has pledged to provide a detailed briefing to the House of Representatives on the operational and regulatory framework for private airstrips, focusing on the recent license granted to Bishop David Oyedepo’s Canaanland airstrip. This response follows a motion in the House urging a review of private airstrip licenses, including Oyedepo’s, which was recently approved by the federal government. Keyamo, addressing the issue on his personal social media account, highlighted the importance of understanding the sector’s operations and regulatory standards. He assured that the ministry would engage with the House to explain private airstrip operations and…

The Tanzanian government has proposed an 11.58% budget increase for 2025/26, aiming to expand from Sh49.35 trillion to Sh55.06 trillion, as outlined in the Budget Framework Document presented to Parliament by Finance Minister Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba on November 1, 2024. The new budget prioritizes economic growth, infrastructure, social services, and governance, balancing development with recurrent spending. Dr. Nchemba emphasized that this budget supports long-term sustainable growth, focusing on empowering communities and fostering social welfare. A substantial allocation of Sh38.6 trillion is designated for recurrent expenditures, while Sh16.46 trillion targets development projects. Key infrastructure priorities include energy, transportation, and industrial expansion,…

International NGOs working in Sudan are sounding the alarm as violence against civilians intensifies amid inaction from global leaders. The escalating conflict and worsening humanitarian needs have left millions trapped, with aid access severely restricted, especially in areas under siege. In a stark appeal, these organizations urged world powers to act on the UN Secretary-General’s call for urgent measures to protect civilians and enable safe delivery of aid. Violence has surged in eastern Aj Jazirah State, forcing 119,000 people to flee, while in El Fasher, Darfur, civilians have been cut off from assistance for eight months due to ongoing bombings…