Author: WAJ Editor

Kenya and South Korea have signed a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) focused on transforming Kenya’s agriculture sector through innovative practices. The agreement, formalized between the Kenya National Innovation Agency (KeNIA) and South Korea’s IIAMHUB Co. Ltd., aims to address Kenya’s food security challenges by introducing smart farming technologies. The partnership will develop strategies and investment opportunities for smart farms, targeting both domestic and foreign investors. KeNIA CEO Tonny Omwansa and IIAMHUB President Ku Kyo-Young highlighted the collaboration’s potential to attract investments, develop innovative agribusiness models, and create strategic opportunities within Kenya’s agricultural sector. Omwansa emphasized that the partnership will…

In recent decades, breast cancer awareness has gained momentum globally, including in Ghana. While the first organized awareness effort took place in the United States in 1985, with October being declared National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, countries like Ghana have since embraced this initiative. In Ghana, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) is at the forefront of raising awareness about breast cancer. Despite these efforts, the disease continues to rise. The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies breast cancer as the most common cancer worldwide, with 2.3 million new cases annually. In Ghana, nearly 5,000 cases are recorded each year, and in…

The highly anticipated Ghana Music Awards UK 2024 has been rescheduled, though it remains committed to its mission of celebrating outstanding contributions to music and culture. Initially slated for October 19th, the event has been postponed due to unforeseen circumstances, according to the organizers, Alordia Promotions and West Coast UK. The new date for the awards ceremony is now set for Saturday, November 30th, 2024. The event will continue its tradition of honoring excellence in Ghanaian music.

The Egyptian foreign minister Badr Ahmed Mohamed Abdelatty accuses Europe of applying double standards to the Middle East crises. “A divided Europe is clearly sending the wrong message to Israel, Egypt, and Arab and Islamic nations, highlighting international hypocrisy and double standards,” Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty told reporters in Cairo. Speaking after meeting with Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Alvarez in Cairo, the Egyptian official drew a comparison between Europe’s response to the Middle East conflict and the war in Ukraine, noting that some European countries have refrained from condemning Israel’s actions or taking firm steps.

The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the African Union (AU) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to boost cooperation between the two organizations and their people. The agreement, signed during the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York, aims to foster a favorable environment for investment in both the African continent and the Caribbean Community. Beyond promoting investment, the MoU seeks to strengthen ties by encouraging closer people-to-people connections and solidarity through initiatives like a diaspora volunteer exchange program, linking citizens to development efforts. It also establishes guidelines for collaboration, information sharing, and implementation of the partnership. The MoU…

South African Energy and Electricity Minister Kgosientso Ramokgopa’s special adviser, Silas Zimu, has urged South African coal producers to temporarily lower their coal prices for Eskom, a state-owned electricity producer company over the next three years in order to mitigate the proposed 36.15% electricity price hike for Eskom’s direct customers. In exchange, the coal suppliers would be offered extended contracts with the state-owned utility. Speaking to coal industry leaders at the FFF Carbon 2024 Middelburg Coal Conference in Mpumalanga on October 17, Zimu pointed out that 65% of the proposed tariff increase is directly linked to coal prices, suggesting coal…

Senegal is experiencing significant flooding, particularly in the northern region, where the Senegal River has overflowed, impacting the cities of Kayes, Kidira, Bakel, Matam, and Podor. The Senegal River Basin Development Authority (OMVS), which includes Guinea, Mali, Mauritania, and Senegal, reported the floods, noting that water flow levels are comparable to the historic 1999 floods. The Manantali dam, which regulates floodwaters from the Faleme and Bakoye tributaries, has reached its maximum operating capacity. Evacuations have begun in affected areas, including Kidira, a city of 11,000 residents located 650 km from Dakar. The flooding is part of a larger crisis impacting…

Prof. Mohammed Belhocine, AU Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation, is urging African nations to push for more funding to meet the Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4) targets by 2030. Citing UNESCO studies, he noted that Africa would require $90 billion to achieve these goals. Speaking at the inaugural Africa Skills Week 2024 in Accra, Prof. Belhocine emphasized the need for collective action to advocate for the necessary resources. The five-day event, themed “Skills and Jobs for the 21st Century: Quality Skills Development for Sustainable Employability in Africa,” gathers education stakeholders across the continent to discuss how to enhance…

Last November, the U.S. Director of National Intelligence, Avril Haines, visited Kinshasa with an unusual proposal for Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) President Felix Tshisekedi. The U.S. offered to share secret intelligence in exchange for his cooperation in a cease-fire in the long-standing conflict in eastern DRC. Haines promised to provide insights into the movements of the M23 rebel group, which is active in the mineral-rich region that has been plagued by violence for over 30 years. A similar offer was extended to Rwandan President Paul Kagame during a visit to Kigali, with U.S. and UN officials suggesting that Rwanda…

Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in Sweden for a two-day working visit aimed at enhancing trade and strengthening bilateral relations between Nigeria and Sweden. Accompanied by Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar, and other senior government officials, Shettima will engage in high-level discussions with key Swedish government officials. The visit, initiated by Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will include meetings with Crown Princess Victoria and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson. During the visit, the vice president will focus on fostering cooperation in areas such as information and communication technology (ICT), digitalization, education, sustainable transport,…

Kenya and Indonesia are seeking to strengthen their bilateral ties by exchanging investment projects. As part of their discussions, the two countries are exploring the creation of a Bilateral Investment Treaty to foster partnerships in sectors like energy, technology, education, and other underutilized strategic areas. According to Indonesian Ambassador to Kenya, Hery Saripudin, this deepening relationship builds on the 15 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) signed during the Indonesian President’s visit to Kenya in August 2023. Saripudin emphasized the need for continued collaboration in areas like energy, technology, and education. He also noted that these diplomatic efforts go beyond formalities, offering…

Turkish Ambassador to Cairo, Salih Mutlu Şen, recently visited the Akay ready-made garments factory in Port Said, which produces clothing and blue jeans for leading Turkish and international brands. During the visit, Ambassador Şen highlighted the factory’s success, noting that it employs around 1,500 Egyptian workers, technicians, engineers, and managers, and produces 2.5 million jeans annually. “The factory produces jeans for the renowned Turkish national brand ‘Jeans’ as well as other world-famous luxury denim brands,” Ambassador Şen remarked. The Akay factory, established in 2007 with $35 million in Turkish investment, plans to expand its operations with an additional $15 million…

Algeria’s constitutional court certified President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s reelection for a second and final term on September 14, 2023. Despite progress in infrastructure, housing, and agriculture under his leadership, the economy remains undiversified, with high unemployment, especially among youth. The country is heavily reliant on its hydrocarbon sector, with oil and natural gas exports accounting for 90% of its exports and 60% of fiscal revenues in 2023. However, Algeria has vast untapped potential, particularly in sectors like agriculture, mining, renewable energy, and tourism. To reduce dependence on hydrocarbons, Tebboune could implement a three-pillar economic transformation strategy. First, a comprehensive vision for…

In a delicate operation led by Kenya’s Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has begun relocating 50 elephants from Mwea National Reserve to Aberdare National Park. The move, overseen by tourism minister Rebecca Miano, is designed to mitigate escalating human-wildlife conflicts in central Kenya. Under careful supervision, KWS personnel sedate the elephants before they are lifted by crane into transport trucks. This precision-driven process aims to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals, which can weigh between two and seven tons. The relocation, viewed as essential by many in the region, comes in response to…

The Directorate of Mining in Turkana County of Kenya has halted gold mining activities near Nagetei Girls Secondary School following public outcry over environmental and safety concerns. On Monday, the county government announced the immediate suspension of mining operations in the area, citing non-compliance with environmental regulations and public safety risks. Acting Director for Mineral Resources Elim Areman stated that the decision was driven by numerous complaints from the local community about the dangers posed by the mining activities. “We found the mining activities were very close to the school, posing a serious threat to the local environment. This situation…

The World Cooperation Industries (WCI) Forum commenced in Istanbul on Wednesday, bringing together around 1,500 African businesspeople and representatives from Turkish small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The forum, running through Thursday, highlights the expanding trade relationship between Türkiye and Africa. Turkish Trade Minister Omer Bolat, speaking at the event, noted that since the launch of the Strategy for the Development of Commercial and Economic Relations with African Countries in 2003, trade between Türkiye and Africa has surged from $5.4 billion to $37 billion. In the first nine months of 2024 alone, the trade volume reached $27 billion. Bolat also highlighted…

Egypt and the UK have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening cooperation in sustainable food security. The agreement was signed by Egypt’s Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Agriculture and Land Reclamation, Alaa Farouk, and the UK’s Minister for the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, Hamish Falconer. The MoU seeks to establish a strategic partnership between the two nations, focusing on the exchange of technical expertise and the implementation of a pilot program to enhance local wheat production and promote sustainable agriculture. Al-Mashat highlighted that the agreement reflects the…

At the Africa Defense Ministers’ Conference in Addis Ababa, former Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Dessalegn emphasized the need for African nations to engage in strategic discussions to establish unified positions on international platforms. According to local media reports, he argued that aligning policies and finding common ground could significantly enhance Africa’s influence globally. Hailemariam called for an “African Renaissance,” urging the continent to assert its rightful place in the world. He criticized past global systems for marginalizing Africa, questioning the benefits of globalization, especially given the continent’s reliance on foreign aid and raw material exports. By comparing Africa’s situation with…

Tanzania is playing a pivotal role in the expansion of economic cooperation between Iran and East Africa. The upcoming joint economic committee meeting, co-chaired by the Iranian Agriculture Minister and the Tanzanian Minister of Industry and Trade, highlights the deepening partnership between the two nations. Over 50 Iranian companies have confirmed their participation, signaling a significant boost in trade relations. One of the key developments in this relationship is the draft agreement on eliminating double taxation, signed by officials from both countries in mid-March. Tanzanian Ministry of Finance’s Acting Commissioner, William M. Moja, and Hossein Abdollahi from Iran’s Legal Office…

The world’s largest startup and investment event, Expand North Star 2024, continued to highlight groundbreaking innovations on its third day at Dubai Harbour, with attendees from around the globe, especially from Africa witnessing cutting-edge advancements in “Applied AI and Deep Tech”. Integrated with GITEX Global, the event, running until October 16, hosts over 1,800 startups and 1,200 investors managing assets worth more than USD $1 trillion. Mauritius introduced a satellite platform Day three of the event showcased next-generation solutions in robotics, AI, and deep tech, offering a glimpse into the future of these industries. In the space technology sector, Triggers-Reports…

TikTok recently announced that it removed more than 2.1 million videos in Nigeria during the second quarter of 2024 for breaching its community guidelines. This move is part of the platform’s ongoing efforts to improve content moderation and provide a safer environment for its users. According to the latest Community Guidelines Enforcement Report released on Tuesday, these videos represented less than 1% of all uploads in Nigeria during the period. The report highlighted that 99.1% of the removed videos were flagged and taken down proactively before any user complaints, with 90.7% of them removed within 24 hours of detection. These…

Zanzibar President Dr. Husein Mwinyi has highlighted the island’s growing reputation as a prime destination for international conferences, with a focus on promoting peaceful, inclusive, and religious events. Speaking at the international Islamic conference “Peace, Respect, Unity: Light Upon Light Global 2024,” Dr. Mwinyi extended an invitation for more international events to be held on the island. Addressing the attendees at the Aman Complex Stadium, Dr. Mwinyi emphasized Zanzibar’s stability and safety, which makes it an ideal location for hosting conferences and attracting tourists. The conference, attended by renowned Muslim scholars, including Dr. Mufti Ismail Menk from Zimbabwe, drew participants…

Foreign Minister Abdelatty stressed that recognizing the State of Palestine based on a two-state solution is essential for achieving regional security, stability, and peace, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Cairo emphasized that resolving the Palestinian issue would significantly benefit all people in the region. In a recent meeting, Abdelatty discussed Egypt’s view on regional developments and their impact on security and stability. He called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the unrestricted delivery of humanitarian aid. Additionally, Abdelatty highlighted Egypt’s efforts to reduce tensions and secure a ceasefire in Lebanon, urging the Israeli army to withdraw from…

The Chinese-owned Dinson Iron and Steel Company (Disco), the primary industry at the Manhize Industrial Park near Mvuma, Zimbabwe, has invested over US$2 billion to boost the country’s economic potential. This was revealed by Dinson Group Project Director Wilfred Motsi during the Mine Entra 2024 event in Bulawayo, where he discussed the economic benefits of steel sector development and value-addition. Dinson, a subsidiary of Tsingshan Group—the world’s largest stainless steel producer—aims to drive the growth of Zimbabwe’s steel industry. Tsingshan controls the entire production chain, from smelting nickel-chromium alloys to producing energy storage systems for global markets. Motsi highlighted that…

In response to Sierra Leone’s severe shortage of anesthesia providers, Mercy Ships, the Sierra Leone Ministry of Health, and the University of Sierra Leone have launched a Nurse Anesthesia Diploma Programme. The initiative, which began in April 2024, aims to improve surgical care by training specialized nurse anesthetists. Currently, Sierra Leone has just 0.1 anesthesiologists per 100,000 people, far below the World Health Organization’s recommendation. With 90% of surgeries conducted without a trained anesthetist, this program is seen as crucial for addressing the country’s healthcare challenges. The first cohort includes 20 experienced nurses receiving both practical and theoretical training, initially…

The ongoing civil war in Sudan is exacerbating existing tensions within the fragile administration of Chadian President Mahamat Déby. His late father, Idriss Déby, had a significant role in the earlier war in Sudan’s Darfur region, a conflict that spilled over into Chad. Mahamat Déby, who rose to power controversially after his father’s death in battle three years ago, claims to maintain a neutral stance in Sudan’s conflict. However, his government has inadvertently bolstered the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group, by allowing them to transport fuel, weapons, and stolen goods through Chad and evacuate wounded fighters. Additionally, Déby’s…

The prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) announced on Monday that he is renewing an investigation into allegations of crimes committed in Congo’s conflict-ridden North Kivu province since early 2022. Eastern Congo has long been plagued by over 120 armed groups vying for control of the region’s gold and other resources, resulting in mass killings and one of the largest humanitarian crises globally, with over 7 million people displaced, many of whom are unreachable by aid. The most prominent rebel group, M23, gained notoriety over a decade ago after seizing Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo, which borders…

Augustina Tufuor, a 30-year-old entrepreneur from Ghana, founded Tropical Snacks to create all-natural plantain chips. Despite her success, she faced significant challenges in expanding her business due to financial constraints. Traditional banks required her to provide 20,000 Cedis as collateral and to hire a professional evaluator before considering her loan application. Additionally, the steep interest rates of over 36% made it nearly impossible for her to grow her business. Tufuor’s experience is reflective of the difficulties many women in sub-Saharan Africa encounter when trying to access finance, land, and technology. The International Trade Centre (ITC) reports that over 70% of…

A delegation of Canadian investors is currently exploring business opportunities in Zimbabwe, with a focus on sectors such as clean energy, manufacturing, information and communications technology (ICT), mining, agriculture, and education. This initiative aligns with the Second Republic’s efforts to engage with previously unfriendly Western nations, which are now showing a renewed interest in Zimbabwe. On Tuesday, the delegation, led by Paula Caldwell St-Onge, chair of the Canada-Africa Chamber of Business, met with Foreign and International Trade Minister Ambassador Frederick Shava, alongside Canadian Ambassador to Zimbabwe Alder Aristilde. Caldwell St-Onge expressed enthusiasm about the Canadian private sector’s interest in Zimbabwe,…

The Grand Egyptian Museum will partially open its main galleries on Wednesday, allowing 4,000 visitors to explore 12 halls dedicated to various aspects of ancient Egypt as part of a trial run, officials announced on Tuesday. This highly anticipated mega-project, located near the iconic Giza Pyramids, has incurred costs exceeding $1 billion and has been under construction for over a decade, with multiple delays attributed to factors including the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Al-Tayeb Abbas, assistant to the Minister of Antiquities, this trial run will help fine-tune operations ahead of the museum’s official opening, which has yet to be scheduled.…

The Country Director of Oxfam International in Nigeria, John Makina, announced that implementing a progressive wealth tax could generate over $7.5 billion annually for the country. He made this statement during the launch of two Oxfam reports in Abuja on Tuesday, which highlighted the growing wealth inequality in Nigeria. Makina emphasized the urgent need for tax reform, pointing out that while millions of Nigerians live in poverty, a small elite continues to amass wealth without contributing their fair share in taxes. He noted that the potential revenue from a wealth tax could double the government’s health budget or reduce household…

Council of State member Sam Okudzeto and Professor Stephen Adei have called for stronger measures, including advanced technologies like drones, to tackle the growing problem of illegal mining, known as galamsey, which is devastating Ghana’s rivers and forests. Their comments come amid rising public concern over the severe pollution affecting key water sources across the country. Speaking on TV3’s Agenda program on October 14, 2024, Okudzeto emphasized the failure of previous efforts to combat illegal mining, despite various interventions since 2013, such as military deployments. He noted that rivers, particularly in the Western Region like the Ankobra, remain heavily polluted.…

Months of drought in southern Africa have left over 27 million people in crisis, creating the region’s worst hunger situation in decades, according to the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP). The agency warned that the situation could escalate into a “full-scale human catastrophe.” Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe have declared national disasters due to the drought, which was triggered by the El Niño weather pattern, leading to widespread hunger. The WFP estimates that around 21 million children in the region are now malnourished as crops have failed. “This is the worst food crisis in decades,” said WFP spokesman…

A high-level Sahrawi military delegation, led by Taleb Ammi Deih, Central Director of Operations and Inspection at the Ministry of National Defense, took part in the inaugural Conference of African Defense Ministers at the invitation of Ethiopia’s Ministry of Defense. The conference, held at the Adwa Memorial Museum in Addis Ababa, began on Tuesday and was attended by numerous African defense ministers, senior military officials, and military attachés, along with researchers in military affairs. Themed “Africa: United in Peace, Strong in Security,” the event aimed to strengthen partnerships to combat terrorism, address global and regional security threats, and foster future…

Namibia needs up to N$25 billion ($1.4 billion) over the next decade to address its water security needs, according to the country’s water minister, Calle Schlettwein. Speaking at a conference in Cairo, Schlettwein said that the semi-arid nation, home to about 3 million people, also requires N$10 billion to ensure bulk water supply through 2037, with annual operating costs expected to increase by 5% to 6%. “We are not investing enough to ensure a climate-resilient and water-secure future,” Schlettwein warned. Namibia is facing growing pressure on its water resources due to factors such as population growth, economic development, and climate…

Beninese activist Kémi Séba was arrested by French police in Paris on Monday while having lunch with a colleague, according to media reports. Séba is a prominent critic of France’s influence in French-speaking West African countries. The reason for his visit to France remains unclear, and there have been no official statements regarding his arrest. Recently, Séba was appointed as an advisor to Niger’s leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani, who came to power following a military coup in July 2023 that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. Niger has since cut ties with Western countries and demanded the withdrawal of French, American, and…

Two people were killed and five others injured in Guinea over the weekend during clashes with police as villagers protested against the Chinese-owned Hongxing gold mining company, according to local media reports. Guineenews reported on Monday that around 40 people were arrested following the violent demonstration. Protesters allegedly damaged equipment and machinery at the mining site, accusing Hongxing of causing environmental damage in the area, though Anadolu has not independently confirmed these claims. Guinea, known for its rich mineral resources such as bauxite, iron ore, gold, and diamonds, has attracted numerous companies, including Chinese firms. According to the International Trade…

At the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum (CASCF) in May, China and Tunisia announced the establishment of a strategic partnership, aiming to enhance cooperation in areas of mutual interest. Despite relatively modest trade, with bilateral trade in 2022 totaling just $3.94 billion, this partnership offers potential for growth. China’s influence in the Maghreb has been expanding, especially with Libya, which reactivated its economic ties with China, including the first Libyan-Chinese Economic Forum. Egypt has also deepened its ties with China, celebrating a ten-year partnership and focusing on sectors like renewable energy, technology, and defense. Algeria and Morocco have both attracted significant…

Namibia and South Africa have jointly praised the recent ruling by the European Court of Justice (ECJ) regarding Western Sahara. The announcement was made during the Political, Diplomatic, and Legal Committee meeting of the Namibia-South Africa Bi-National Commission, held in Swakopmund from October 14-15. The two nations hailed the ECJ ruling as a significant victory for the people of Western Sahara in their decades-long struggle for self-determination. The ruling aligns with Namibia and South Africa’s longstanding position that “only the people of Western Sahara have the right to decide on the utilization of the resources of Western Sahara in accordance…

The Ugandan Solidarity Association with Western Sahara expressed strong approval of the European Court of Justice’s decision to annul trade agreements between the European Union and Morocco regarding Western Sahara. This ruling was based on the violation of the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination and their opposition, along with that of their legitimate representative, the Polisario Front. The Ugandan newspaper New Vision highlighted the association’s position, emphasizing that the recent ruling, issued in early October, aligns with previous decisions by the European General Court from 2016 to 2021, which supported the Polisario Front. These decisions affirmed that Western Sahara is…

President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has approved the extension of Operation Shujaa, a joint military effort between Uganda and the DRC aimed at combating the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels in the eastern part of the country. The decision was announced during a meeting held on Saturday at the President’s office in Kinshasa. The meeting was attended by the Ugandan Ambassador to the DRC, Mr. Farid Kaliisa; the commander of Uganda’s Land Forces, Lt. Gen. Kayanja Muhanga; and top Congolese military leaders led by Gen. Christian Tshiwewe, the Chief of Staff of the Congolese army…

Liberia, Africa’s oldest independent nation, has long struggled with limited internet access, particularly in remote areas where traditional internet service providers (ISPs) fail to provide reliable connectivity. This digital divide hampers economic growth, education, and communication, leaving millions disconnected. However, the introduction of Starlink, a satellite internet constellation developed by SpaceX, offers a potential game-changer for the country’s digital future. Starlink: A potential solution to Liberia’s internet woes With recent disruptions caused by cable cuts, the need for alternative internet solutions has become critical. Unlike traditional ISPs that rely on physical cables, Starlink uses a network of low-orbit satellites to…

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to transform industries worldwide, experts are urging Nigeria to establish a comprehensive framework to guide the ethical and responsible integration of AI into its society and economy. Health analysts emphasize that the lack of a robust governance structure poses significant risks to public interests, particularly in critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and innovation. Concerns include potential threats to data security and the long-term impact on innovation without proper oversight. Ricardo Baptista Leite, president of the UNITE Parliamentarians Network for Global Health and CEO of HealthAI, highlighted Nigeria’s crucial role in global efforts to regulate…

Spain is pushing for the inclusion of Morocco, Algeria, and Israel, alongside other countries, in a NATO Foreign Ministers’ meeting in December 2024. This proposal, first reported by Europa Press, is part of Spain’s efforts to foster stronger ties between NATO and its Mediterranean partners, addressing mutual security challenges. The invitation also extends to Tunisia, Mauritania, Jordan, and Egypt. Madrid hopes to see this initiative enhancing ongoing regional dialogue and cooperation, contributing to broader stability in the Mediterranean.

The youth-driven initiative “Water from a Rock” in South Africa has been selected from over 30 submissions to address flood preparedness in vulnerable communities. This project, supported by the Associated Programme on Flood Management (APFM) and the Integrated Drought Management Programme (IDMP), highlights the role of young people in mitigating the impacts of climate change. Water from a rock: South Africa’s effort to build flood preparedness Flooding remains one of Africa’s most devastating natural disasters. The 2023 collapse of two dams in Libya led to the loss of over 11,000 lives, while floods across the continent, including in South Africa,…

The 6th African International Tea Convention, held in Kigali, Rwanda, concluded last week, offering a valuable platform for stakeholders to engage with global tea leaders and technology experts. The event emphasized the need to strengthen tea’s role in the economic development of African nations, while addressing the challenges posed by unpredictable weather and rising production costs. Participants called for the adoption of sustainable, climate-resilient practices to safeguard the industry. The convention, themed “Harmony in the Cup: Promoting Tea for People and the Planet,” focused on the growth and sustainability of the African tea sector amid various challenges and opportunities. In…

South Africa’s increasing reliance on fuel imports poses supply risks that require enhanced infrastructure for storage and transportation, according to the state-owned logistics firm, Transnet SOC Ltd. The country, which is Africa’s most industrialized, imported 61% of its petroleum products in 2023, a significant jump from just 22% four years earlier. This shift is largely due to the closure of several refineries, Transnet noted in a recent presentation. The growing dependence on imports has made South Africa’s fuel pipeline system vulnerable to disruptions, which could lead to temporary fuel shortages. To address this, Transnet is planning investments in Durban’s port,…

In a bid to boost domestic tourism and reconnect citizens with Uganda’s natural heritage, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has announced free access to the country’s iconic national parks for two days. From October 17th to 18th, Ugandans will have the chance to explore breathtaking landscapes and wildlife at no cost, a move aimed at revitalizing the tourism sector, which has been hard-hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. Sam Mwandha, Executive Director of UWA, emphasized the importance of the initiative in shifting the focus of tourism inward, encouraging Ugandans to appreciate the beauty within their borders. “For too long, tourism in…

Senegal, an emerging oil and gas producer, is planning to invest around 12.8 trillion CFA francs ($21 billion) in development over the next five years, while aiming to attract an additional 5.7 trillion CFA francs in private sector investment, according to a draft government plan. Public spending on key sectors like education and energy infrastructure is expected to grow by an average of 14.7% annually between 2025 and 2029, based on the plan shared by the finance ministry. However, the document is still under revision and may change, according to a presidency official. The plan is being developed by President…

Wael Badawi, Deputy Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for Migration, Refugees, and Combating Human Trafficking, announced that Egypt is home to more than 10 million migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers. He emphasized that the country treats them as guests, providing them with the same basic services as Egyptian citizens. Badawi underscored the need for international cooperation to share the responsibility and burden of supporting this large number of refugees and migrants alongside the host community, ensuring the sustainability of essential services. This statement was made during Egypt’s participation in the second regional review meeting on the implementation of the Global…

For centuries, Africa and the global Black population have faced systemic injustice, colonial exploitation, and economic marginalization. However, the rise of Black billionaires is reshaping this narrative, proving that significant wealth can be created and sustained within African and Black communities. The concentration of wealth among Black and African individuals offers a powerful tool for driving economic growth in their regions. Despite Africa’s wealth of natural resources, many of its economies remain underdeveloped due to poor infrastructure, governance issues, and dependence on foreign funding. Black billionaires are breaking this cycle by injecting capital into African businesses, infrastructure projects, and social…

The Organisation for the Development of the Senegal River (OMVS) issued a warning on Sunday about the risk of severe flooding along the Senegal River, based on the latest hydrological data. The current situation mirrors the historic floods of 1999, with exceptionally high water levels and river flows. The Manantali Dam, crucial for flood control, has reached a critical level of 208.28 meters IGN, surpassing its normal operational limits. Concerns are growing about water flows in the region. In Kayes, western Mali, river flow is forecast to reach 4,236 m³/s on October 13, increasing to 5,751 m³/s by October 16.…

Tunisia’s recent trade data presents a mixed scenario of both strengths and challenges. While the country enjoys significant trade surpluses with some key partners, it also faces notable deficits, reflecting broader economic hurdles. In the first nine months of 2023, Tunisia’s trade deficit reached 13.5 billion dinars ($4.2 billion), driven largely by high import costs from countries like Russia, China, and Algeria, where imports far exceed Tunisian exports. Despite this, Tunisia has seen success in other markets. It posted a trade surplus of 1.55 billion dinars ($486 million) with Libya, along with substantial surpluses of 3.9 billion dinars with France,…

Private sector companies from Libya and Indonesia signed several trade agreements in Jakarta on Friday, covering industries such as aviation, food products, paper, and stationery. These deals were finalized during the “Expo Indonesia 2024” event, organized with the support of the Indonesian Embassy in Libya. Alaa Eldeen Deekna, Director of Quality and Compliance at Oya Airlines, revealed that the company signed a memorandum of intent to lease four light aircraft, with an option to buy. These planes will be used for domestic flights, oilfield services, as well as for training pilots and support staff. Additionally, Indonesian chargé d’affaires, Dedi Rifai,…

President Kais Saied of Tunisia received congratulations from several world leaders following his re-election for a second presidential term, securing 90.69% of the vote in the recent elections. This overwhelming mandate underscores the Tunisian people’s trust in his leadership during a critical period for the nation. UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan extended his congratulations via phone call, wishing President Saied success in leading Tunisia toward further progress. Sheikh Mohamed emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral ties between the UAE and Tunisia for the benefit and prosperity of both nations. In response, President Saied expressed gratitude for the…

The Head of the Presidential Council, Mohammed Menfi, emphasized that the council is not involved in Libya’s internal conflict. In a joint meeting with the African Union delegation led by Mauritania’s President Mohammed Ould Cheikh El-Ghazouani, Menfi highlighted the council’s ongoing communication with all parties, ensuring none were excluded from the reconciliation process. He reaffirmed the commitment to fostering national partnership and achieving a Libyan-owned solution. Menfi praised the meeting, stating that it reflected Africa’s dedication to assisting Libya in overcoming its challenges and underscored Libya’s integral connection to the African continent. According to the council’s media office, the meeting…

Sudan reiterated its claims against the United Arab Emirates, accusing it of backing the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the ongoing conflict and urging the UN Security Council to act against what it termed “continuous aggressive activities.” In a letter to the Security Council President dated October 11, Sudan provided what it claimed was new evidence of the UAE’s military, financial, and logistical assistance to the RSF. This follows a formal complaint Sudan filed against the UAE on March 29, alleging the Gulf state was attempting to incite war and was aiding the RSF with support from Chad. The letter…

At the 32nd Arab Music Festival at the Egyptian Opera House, acclaimed composer Sayyid Khalid bin Hamad al Busaidy was honored for his 42 years of contributions to music. Since beginning his career in 1982, he has composed over 200 works and collaborated with various Omani and Arab singers, playing a crucial role in preserving traditional Omani music. The festival included 14 diverse musical nights featuring artists from across the Arab world and honored 19 other artists, including an Omani-themed night showcasing Oman’s rich musical heritage. In addition to his musical achievements, Sayyid Khalid is a prominent social media influencer…

A regional governor from Kenya has been arrested in connection with clan violence in the coastal Tana River county, which has resulted in multiple fatalities. Dhadho Godhana, along with a local lawmaker, was arrested separately for ignoring summons related to the clashes, according to police reports on Saturday. Neither individual has publicly addressed the allegations. At least 14 people have died in the violence in southeastern Kenya, leading authorities to classify two areas in the county as dangerous and unstable for the next 30 days. The interior ministry has increased security in these regions and prohibited residents from carrying weapons.…

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has approved reforms that will reduce borrowing costs for its members by 36% and exempt eight heavily indebted countries from paying additional borrowing fees. The IMF’s executive board agreed to a series of changes, including adjustments to the surcharges imposed on countries with high debt levels, such as Ukraine and Argentina, according to a statement released on Friday. These reforms, effective from November 1, will raise the debt threshold at which surcharges are applied, removing the requirement for eight nations to pay extra borrowing costs. The affected countries are Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Gabon, Georgia, Moldova,…

A shallow earthquake with a magnitude of 6.3 struck near Liberia, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, on the morning of Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 11:43 am local time. The Colombian Geological Service (SGC) reported the quake at a depth of 10 km, meaning it was felt more intensely as it occurred close to the surface. The magnitude, epicenter, and depth could be adjusted as seismologists analyze more data or as additional reports from other agencies are released. Another report from the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) registered the quake at a magnitude of 6.1. Preliminary data suggests the earthquake was…