Author: WAJ Editor

Renowned Zambian musician Dandy Krazy, whose real name was Wesley Chibambo, has passed away at the age of 47 due to injuries sustained in a road accident on New Year’s Eve. The artist was traveling in Zambia’s Kapiri Mposhi region when his vehicle was involved in a collision with a truck and another car. The accident claimed three lives at the scene. Despite being rushed to the University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka for emergency surgery, Dandy Krazy succumbed to his injuries in the early hours of Thursday. Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema paid tribute to the beloved musician, describing him as…

A military tribunal in the Democratic Republic of Congo has sentenced 13 soldiers to death for offenses including murder, looting, and cowardice. Authorities described the move as part of efforts to restore discipline in the army following territorial losses caused by soldiers fleeing from battle. The verdicts were delivered in Lubero, located in North Kivu province, where Congolese forces have been battling the Rwanda-backed M23 insurgency and other militia groups for nearly three years. Local army spokesperson Mak Hazukay highlighted the challenges posed by soldiers abandoning their positions, which have allowed enemy forces to gain ground. “Some soldiers at the…

A devastating earthquake struck Morocco’s Al Haouz region on September 8, 2023, claiming over 3,000 lives and leaving thousands homeless. In response, the government has committed more than MAD 800 million (around $79.29 million) to restore and enhance healthcare services in the affected areas. Health Minister Amine Tahraoui, speaking at the House of Councillors on New Year’s Day, detailed the plan to repair, restore, and expand 195 healthcare facilities damaged by the disaster. “These facilities are part of an emergency repair and restoration initiative, coupled with a broader recovery plan involving construction, expansion, and renovation projects in the affected areas,”…

Algeria has assumed the rotating presidency of the UN Security Council for January 2025, marking the second year of its 2024-2025 term as a non-permanent member. The country has pledged to prioritize key Arab and African issues, particularly the Palestinian cause. Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf outlined Algeria’s plans to convene a ministerial meeting within the Council to address the Palestinian situation and broader Middle Eastern challenges. He emphasized Algeria’s focus on securing a cease-fire in Gaza, ensuring humanitarian aid delivery, and advocating for full Palestinian UN membership. Additionally, Algeria plans to host a high-level meeting on counterterrorism in Africa, addressing…

Opposition leader Raila Odinga has called on Kenyans to chart the nation’s course in 2025 through unity and collaborative problem-solving. In his New Year’s message, Odinga acknowledged that challenges from 2024 persist but emphasized the importance of determination and dialogue to overcome them. “It is up to us to decide whether to remain divided or come together to discuss and resolve our issues for the nation’s betterment,” Odinga stated. He has recently focused on his bid to succeed outgoing African Union Chairperson Moussa Faki, engaging in diplomatic efforts across the continent, leveraging his experience in democratic reforms and regional integration.…

President Paul Kagame has assured Rwandans of unwavering protection for the country’s security and sovereignty amidst regional instability, particularly in neighboring DR Congo. Speaking in his end-of-year address on December 31, Kagame emphasized Rwanda’s commitment to defending its interests by all necessary means. “We will always protect Rwanda’s security and sovereignty,” he stated, addressing challenges such as threats from the FDLR militia and broader regional instability. Kagame called for comprehensive, long-term solutions to the root causes of regional conflicts, urging collective efforts to achieve lasting peace. Reflecting on 2024, Kagame highlighted Rwanda’s progress 30 years after the Genocide against the…

Mauritius has clarified that ongoing negotiations with Britain over the return of the Chagos Islands are not solely centered on financial compensation. The talks include critical issues like sovereignty and the lease terms for Diego Garcia, where a key UK-US military base is located. Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam emphasized on Tuesday that the discussions aim to ensure that Mauritius retains sovereignty and that the tenant, referring to the UK and US, does not become the owner of Diego Garcia. A treasury official, speaking anonymously, also refuted claims that financial compensation is the sole focus, citing inflation adjustments and lease duration…

Libya’s Prime Minister, Abdul Hamid Dbeibah, has declared that the government will fully fund the cost of the hajj pilgrimage for its citizens this year, estimated at over 50,000 Libyan dinars per individual. Citizens who prefer to pay for their pilgrimage independently will still have the option to do so. In his announcement, Dbeibah criticized the performance of committees responsible for assisting pilgrims in previous years, emphasizing the need for qualified personnel to be selected under strict guidelines. He also warned against favoritism and undue influence in the selection process. The Hajj Authority has begun reviewing the data of registered…

Kenyan President William Ruto has publicly acknowledged instances of abuse of power by the country’s security forces, following widespread protests over alleged kidnappings and disappearances. In his New Year’s address, Ruto admitted to “excessive and extrajudicial actions” by security personnel but refrained from giving specifics. His remarks come in the wake of youth-led demonstrations triggered by the violent repression of protests in June and July. The protests, which sought answers for a spate of abductions, were met with heavy-handed tactics, including tear gas and mass arrests. Ruto emphasized the balance between freedom and public safety, stating, “Every freedom has its…

Burundi’s election commission has barred opposition candidates from contesting the upcoming local elections in June, sparking allegations of political interference. The Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) ruled that members of the four-party coalition “Burundi for All” are ineligible to run due to their association with the suspended opposition party, the National Freedom Council (CNL). Among those excluded are prominent figures such as Agathon Rwasa, a former presidential candidate and opposition leader. Critics argue the decision is part of a deliberate effort to sideline Rwasa, who came second in the 2020 presidential race. New electoral laws, including restrictions on independent candidates…

Beachgoers at Muizenberg Beach in Cape Town, South Africa have welcomed the strong presence of law enforcement officers during New Year’s Day celebrations, highlighting their efforts in ensuring safety and compliance. Thousands of locals and tourists flocked to beaches across the city to mark the start of the year, with families and friends enjoying the festive atmosphere at the seaside and municipal pools. Authorities conducted various operations, including roadblocks and beach patrols, to maintain order and safety. Visitors expressed their gratitude for the heightened police visibility. “We’re enjoying life here in Muizenberg on the first day of the year,” one…

The Zimbabwean government has raised the retirement age for civil servants and members of the uniformed forces by five years, citing the need to leverage expertise and accommodate the country’s increasing life expectancy. Justice, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi announced the policy change in Harare, emphasizing that the move aligns with global trends and aims to improve service delivery efficiency. Under the new regulations, effective immediately, the retirement age for civil servants has been extended from 65 to 70. For the uniformed forces, regular soldiers can now retire at 55, up from 50, with the option to extend…

Cameroonian President Paul Biya, in his end-of-year address, hinted at a potential run for another term in the 2025 presidential elections. His remarks have sparked speculation about his intention to remain in power beyond his current tenure. Biya described 2025 as a year “full of challenges,” a statement some observers interpret as an indication of his continued political ambitions. He also acknowledged the efforts of his party members, who have launched a campaign promoting his candidacy for the upcoming election. At nearly 92 years old, Biya has led Cameroon for four decades, making him one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders. According…

Burkina Faso’s transitional parliament has approved a law granting amnesty to soldiers involved in the failed 2015 coup attempt. The decision is seen as part of ongoing efforts to address the country’s tumultuous political history. The coup, led by members of the Presidential Security Regiment loyal to ousted President Blaise Compaoré, sought to overthrow the transitional government just weeks before elections. The attempt was thwarted when other sections of the military intervened. Several high-ranking army officers, identified as the masterminds, were convicted and sentenced to prison in 2019. Under the new law, these individuals can seek clemency by formally appealing…

A military court in the Democratic Republic of Congo has arraigned 23 soldiers, who now face the death penalty or prison sentences ranging from 10 to 20 years for alleged desertion, rape, and other crimes. The arraignment took place in Butembo, North Kivu province, where security forces continue to combat over 120 rebel groups in the region. According to army spokesperson Lt. Col. MaK Hazukay, 10 of the accused face charges of desertion, which could result in the death penalty, while others are charged with offenses such as misuse of military weapons, robbery, and disobedience. In March, Congo lifted a…

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has announced higher compensation rates for passengers affected by flight delays and cancellations across its member states. This decision was revealed in the final communiqué of the ECOWAS 66th Ordinary Summit, chaired by Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu. The bloc addressed the high costs of air travel, noting its adverse impact on regional aviation growth and economic integration. To mitigate these challenges, ECOWAS adopted a supplementary act to harmonize aviation charges, taxes, and fees within the region. Among the key measures is a 25% reduction in passenger and security charges, alongside the removal…