Author: WAJ Editor

Zimbabwe has softened its requirements for lithium miners to process the mineral locally, a government official said on Thursday, as the industry battles to survive a price slump over the past year. Africa’s top lithium producer, Zimbabwe had last year given producers up to March 2024 to submit plans of how they would produce battery-grade lithium in the impoverished southern African country. Prices of lithium, which is mainly used in battery technologies, have fallen more than 80% in the past year largely due to overproduction from China and a drop in demand for electric vehicles. The price collapse has forced…

Olushegun Adjadi Bakari, the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Benin, in UN General Assembly, has emphasized the need for Africa to reconcile with its history in order to achieve progress. Speaking on the importance of embracing Africa’s beliefs, traditions, and civilization, he highlighted Benin’s role as the birthplace of Vodun culture and its efforts to correct negative perceptions of the continent. Bakari stressed that respect for Africa must go beyond acknowledging its past and should include a forward-looking, action-oriented Pan-Africanism aimed at reducing poverty and fostering prosperity. He pointed out the disparity in travel freedom, noting that it is currently…

Ernest Rwamucyo, Rwanda’s representative at the UN General Assembly, emphasized the importance of unity in tackling global challenges. He stressed that many pressing issues, such as economic shocks, transcend national borders and require collective action. Rwamucyo pointed out that African nations and other marginalized regions have long suffered from global economic shocks without sufficient international support. Reflecting on Rwanda’s experience after the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, Rwamucyo noted that the country chose unity over division and has since become a key contributor to peacekeeping missions across Africa. However, he warned of rising threats, including radicalized insurgencies in southern Africa,…

Casual workers from the Temporary Employment for Community Youth (TECY) staged a protest outside the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning in Monrovia, Liberia, demanding unpaid salaries amounting to $250,000. The workers, hired to clean the streets of Monrovia ahead of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr.’s inauguration in January 2024, claim they have not been paid for 13 months. Although their contracts ended, the workers were instructed to continue working while their salaries were processed. They say they were included in the 2024 national budget after appealing to lawmakers and the Ministry of Youth and Sports. Despite the government allegedly…

The Beauty Istanbul International Exhibiton, held in Istanbul on October 2-4, 2024, offers international business opportunities by exhibiting the rich beauty products of African countries. This year, the exhibition, which hosts 1,160 participants from 66 countries, aims to be an important trade platform in the Middle East and North Africa market. The exhibition brings together innovative brands in various fields such as cosmetics, beauty, hair and home care products. African countries are represented at the fair with striking stands, giving them the opportunity to promote the rich beauty heritage of the continent. South Africa stands out as one of the…

Mulambo Hamakuni Haimbe, Zambia’s Foreign Minister, emphasized that multilateralism is essential for addressing global challenges in UN General Assembly. He acknowledged the United Nations’ role in fostering hope but noted that Zambia, like many developing countries, suffers from the impacts of global conflicts, including rising prices and economic challenges. As the chair of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, he pointed out ongoing security issues in parts of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Mozambique, urging support for peacebuilding efforts. Haimbe highlighted Zambia’s recent drought, which severely affected agriculture and energy, leaving…

On Wednesday, Somalia held a national consultation conference in Mogadishu, with regional leaders, including South West State President Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen, attending under the leadership of Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. However, Puntland President Said Abdullahi Dani was absent due to unresolved tensions between the semiautonomous region and the federal government. According to a statement from the Somali presidency, the conference’s primary focus is on national security, particularly strengthening efforts against the Khawarij, a term used by the Somali government to refer to armed group al-Shabaab. Since 2007, al-Shabaab has been fighting the Somali government and the African Union…

Lamu town of Kenya celebrated Mawlid with great enthusiasm. Lamu is home to the historic Maulidi celebrations, an integral part of East Africa’s Islamic traditions for over a century. Maulidi, also known as Milad-un-Nabi, is an Islamic festival observed during the third month of the Muslim calendar (Rabi ul Awwal) to celebrate the birth of the Prophet Mohammed. Although the Maulidi celebration lasts for an entire month, the most significant period occurs from sunset on the 11th of Rabi al-Awwal to dawn on the 12th, which marks the birth of the Prophet Mohammed according to Sunni traditions. In Lamu, the…

The second edition of the Egyptian Super Cup, now featuring four teams, will commence on 20 October in the UAE, according to a statement from the Abu Dhabi Sports Council. Egypt Cup winners Pyramids FC will face invited side Zamalek at Al-Nahyan Stadium on Sunday at 16:05 (CLT). Later that day, league champions Ahly will take on League Cup winners Ceramica Cleopatra at 20:00 (CLT) at Mohammed Bin Zayed Stadium. The winners of these matches will progress to the final on Thursday, 24 October, at 20:00 (CLT), with the third-place match, featuring the losing teams, set for the same day…

“Emerging opportunities could help reverse the decline and foster growth in South Africa’s mining sector. However, achieving this requires a better understanding of how to support exploration and enhance funding.” This was highlighted by mining leaders at the Joburg Indaba conference on Wednesday in Johannesburg, South Africa. Mzila Mthenjane, CEO of the Minerals Council SA, noted that while the government’s recently launched R400 million exploration fund is a positive step, significantly more investment is needed. The Junior Mining Exploration Fund, a collaboration among the Industrial Development Corporation, Council for Geoscience, and the Department of Mineral Resources, aims to provide junior…

Assistant Foreign Minister for US Affairs, Sameh Aboul-Enein, met with Canada’s newly appointed Ambassador to Egypt, Ulrich Shannon, on Tuesday to discuss strengthening economic ties, attracting Canadian investment, and expanding trade between the two countries. During the Cairo meeting, both parties emphasized the significance of supporting the Canada-Egypt Business Council and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Egypt, aligning their efforts with Egypt’s broader economic development objectives, as stated by the Egyptian foreign ministry. Aboul-Enein underscored Egypt’s interest in learning from Canada’s leading experience in economic growth to bolster its own national development initiatives. In a symbolic gesture, Ambassador Shannon…

Badr Ahmed Mohamed Abdelatty, Egypt’s Foreign Minister, expressed concern over the growing inequality and double standards threatening the international system. He emphasized the importance of restoring trust in multilateralism, particularly in addressing conflicts and crises, highlighting the Israeli aggression against Palestinians as a failure of the international community. He called for an immediate halt to the violence and reaffirmed support for a Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders. Abdelatty also advocated for reforms in the UN Security Council, especially to include African and Arab countries, and stressed the need to address the debt crisis of developing nations. He underscored…

The African Development Bank Group’s Board of Directors has approved a €70 million trade finance facility for Bank of Africa Morocco (BOA). Ahmed Attout, Director of the Bank’s Financial Sector Development Department, highlighted the collaboration to improve trade finance access, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in transitional states. The facility includes a €50 million Risk Participation Agreement (RPA) and a €20 million Trade Finance Line of Credit (TFLOC). Achraf Hassan Tarsim, head of the African Development Bank’s Morocco office, emphasized that this partnership aims to enhance financial inclusion for SMEs involved in foreign trade across Africa. The RPA…

Two individuals close to Benin’s president, arrested last week on charges of plotting a coup in the West African nation, have been remanded in custody pending their trial, according to one of their lawyers on Tuesday. Olivier Boko, a businessman and long-time associate of President Patrice Talon, along with former sports minister Oswald Homeky, face charges of “conspiracy against state security, embezzlement, and money laundering,” as stated by their lawyer, Ayodele Ahounou. The arrests followed accusations that the two men attempted to bribe the president’s security chief to carry out a coup. On Tuesday, Homeky was allegedly caught handing six…

Abdoulaye Maïga, Mali’s Deputy Prime Minister, in UN General Assembly, highlighted that Mali has been in crisis since 2012 due to terrorist and armed groups, losing control of over half its territory and suffering many deaths. The crisis worsened when armed groups to gain strenght in 2006 and NATO’s intervention in Libya in 2011. These events fueled insecurity, trafficking, and community conflicts. In response, after Colonel Assimi Goïta became President in 2021, Mali reorganized its Defense and Security Forces, working toward reclaiming sovereignty. Maïga pointed to progress, such as the adoption of a new Constitution in July 2023 and the…

Amadou Oury Bah, Prime Minister of Guinea, in UN General Assembly, emphasized the need for decisive action and unity in addressing global challenges like conflicts, inequality, and climate crises. He expressed Guinea’s determination to move past instability and build a resilient nation focused on dignity, freedom, and prosperity. He outlined President Mamadi Doumbouya’s vision, anchored in values of justice, integrity, reconciliation, recovery, and repositioning, which will guide the country’s transformation. Bah highlighted the Simandou 2040 Project, a mining initiative that aims to avoid the “natural resource curse” by integrating social and environmental programs and creating a multi-use railway. He mentioned…

Over 150 people are missing after a boat carrying 300 passengers capsized in the Mokwa local government area of Niger State of Nigeria. This incident occurred about a week after the Nigerian National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC) distributed 33 fiberglass boats to nine states to help prevent boat accidents. The boat capsized around 8:30 pm on October 1 on the River Niger near Jebba Dam, in the Gbajibo community. According to the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), the boat was transporting mostly women and children to Gbajibo for a celebration. NSEMA Director General, Abdullahi Baba Arah,…

Taye Atske-Selassie Amde, Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister, in UN General Assembly, recalled Ethiopia’s 1950 concerns about global challenges exceeding the UN’s capacity, warning that these fears have come true with existential threats like the arms race, poverty, and inequality. He emphasized the risk to multilateralism in a multipolar world and argued that collective security relies on states exercising their authority to protect national security. He announced that the Nile River Basin Cooperative Framework Agreement will soon take effect, fostering regional cooperation. He also addressed terrorism in the Horn of Africa, urging Somalia to acknowledge Ethiopia’s role in fighting terrorism and to…

Lejeune Mbella Mbella, Cameroon’s Minister for External Relations, in UN General Assembly, highlighted that climate-related displacement now rivals war-driven refugee crises, urging immediate action on the Paris Agreement. He lamented the slow mobilization of financial and technical resources to address global issues like conflicts in Sudan, Gaza, Lebanon, and Ukraine, which exacerbate arms races and geopolitical tensions. Mbella Mbella also stressed the need for Africa to have two permanent seats on the UN Security Council, noting the injustice of its absence. As the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) approach, he emphasized that current efforts are insufficient and urged stronger political…

More than 550 schools in Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region are still being used as military camps, according to a regional education official on Monday. Ato Redai G. Ezger, deputy head of the Tigray Regional Education Bureau, told Addis Maleda that 552 schools remain under the control of armed groups, severely disrupting educational activities. While some schools have resumed operations, many near the Amhara border continue to face security concerns due to the military presence. Of the region’s 2,492 schools, only 1,835 are currently functioning after the Pretoria Peace Agreement. Local authorities are struggling to fully restore the education system as…

The Nigerian air force refuted claims of targeting a mosque in the deadly airstrike, stating that the strike’s location was chosen based on credible intelligence from multiple reliable sources. The Nigerian Air Force maintained on Monday that the 24 individuals killed in an airstrike in Kaduna state were terrorists. However, residents of Jika da Kolo village in the Giwa local government area claim that the victims, struck on September 27, were worshippers at a mosque and people in a market. Kabiru Ali, the Nigerian Air Force’s deputy director of public relations, stated that the location had long been known as…

Mohamed Ali Nafti, Tunisia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, expressed concern about global efforts toward peace and sustainability while highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Palestine. He condemned the international community’s inaction and double standards regarding the war crimes committed against Palestinians by Israeli forces, calling for immediate action to end the genocide in Gaza. He urged the UN Security Council to impose a ceasefire and hold Israel accountable, citing the International Court of Justice’s advisory ruling that Israel’s occupation of Gaza and the West Bank is illegal. Tunisia supports Palestine’s right to statehood and full UN membership, and Nafti also…

The Turkish Foreign Ministry condemned an attack on the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Embassy residence in Khartoum, Sudan. The Gulf state has blamed the Sudanese armed forces, which fight paramilitary Rapid Support Forces in the capital, for the “heinous” attack. Türkiye called the attack a “blatant violation of international law and diplomatic norms” and urged all parties to respect international law, especially the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. Türkiye reaffirmed its commitment to securing a cease-fire and achieving lasting peace in Sudan. Sudan has been in turmoil since April 2023 due to clashes between the army, led by Abdel-Fattah al-Burhan,…

Hamza Abdi Barre, Prime Minister of Somalia, in UN General Assembly, called on the international community to address escalating global conflicts, urging an immediate end to hostilities in Sudan, Ukraine, and Gaza. He emphasized the need to protect civilians and uphold international humanitarian law. Barre expressed concern over Ethiopia’s actions, accusing the country of violating Somalia’s territorial integrity by attempting to annex Somali territory under the pretext of securing sea access. He called on the international community to support Somalia in defending its sovereignty. Barre also highlighted the importance of sustainable funding for peacekeeping missions like AMISOM and ATMIS, which…

Philda Kereng, Botswana’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, called for stronger trade relations between the two countries during Botswana’s 58th National Day celebration in Abuja. She emphasized the importance of Nigeria as a key partner since the signing of a bilateral agreement in 2018 to deepen cultural and diplomatic ties. Kereng highlighted the need for increased business cooperation and trade between the nations, particularly in sectors like film, food, fashion, and music, where Nigeria excels. She noted the low level of trade between Botswana and Nigeria and stressed the potential for growth in areas such as cosmetics, textiles, and livestock farming.…

Christian Ntsay, Prime Minister of Madagascar, in his speech on UN General Assembly session, emphasized the Malagasy concept of “Fihavanana,” which promotes harmony, mutual respect, and solidarity. He highlighted the government’s focus on human capital, noting significant investments in education, health, security, social programs, and infrastructure over the past five years. He stated that Madagascar has also prioritized democracy and good governance, earning recognition as the second most peaceful country in sub-Saharan Africa in 2024. Ntsay outlined Madagascar’s aspiration to become Africa’s top rice producer through its rural development policy. Additionally, the country is constructing the “Route du Soleil” to…

The Angolan Government is dedicated to enhancing its National Integrated and Comprehensive Surveillance System to track the use of antimicrobials and resistance patterns across human, animal, and environmental health sectors, as recently affirmed by Angolan Health Minister Sílvia Lutucuta in the United States. Speaking at the High-Level Meeting on Antimicrobial Resistance during the United Nations General Assembly in New York, she emphasized that this system provides real-time data essential for shaping public health policies and adjusting plans, including clinical guidelines. The government has made strides in promoting and controlling the responsible use of antimicrobials in human, animal, and agricultural medicine,…

Uganda’s Prime Minister, Robinah Nabbanja, in her speech during UN General Assembly session, expressed concern over global inequalities that lead to poverty, hunger, and disease, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations. Nabbanja reiterated Africa’s demand for two permanent and two non-permanent seats on the UN Security Council, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive and equitable international system. She highlighted financing as a major obstacle to achieving the 2030 Agenda and advocated for zero-interest loans and debt reforms to promote sustainable development in infrastructure. Nabbanja called for urgent reform of the global financial architecture and emphasized the need for international support for…

Somali Minister of Interior, Federal Affairs, and Reconciliation H.E Ali Yusuf Ali (Hosh) visited Türkiye and joined SETA’s conference on Somalia – Türkiye relations, achievements and challanges on security and stabilization. Mr. Yusuf Ali spoke in the beginning of the conference and stated that Somalia is fighting comprehensively against the terrorist organization Al-Shabaab, and they are trying to stabilize the regions. He stressed that the Turkish government has always been a strong ally of Somalia in terms of military support After conference, he answered Wall Africa Journal’s questions. Q: Relations between Türkiye and Somalia are considered a non-partisan issue in…

During the BRICS Energy Ministers Conference in Moscow, Egypt outlined its goal to have renewable energy make up over 42% of its energy mix by 2040. Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy, Mahmoud Esmat, announced plans to capture 5-8% of the global green hydrogen market by that year, highlighting Egypt’s commitment to sustainable energy through its abundant solar and wind resources. He introduced a national hydrogen strategy, including a National Hydrogen Council and new legislation to encourage investments in green hydrogen. South Africa’s Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, emphasized the need for BRICS Plus countries to work…

Seventeen people have been killed in a mass shooting in a remote South African town, with a manhunt now underway for the attackers, according to police. The incidents occurred at two homesteads in Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape. At one site, 12 women and one man were killed, while at another, three women and one man lost their lives. An 18th person is in critical condition in the hospital, as reported by the South African Police Service. Police ministers and the commissioner will hold a national briefing. Local media indicates that the victims were relatives and neighbors in Nyathi village, Ngobozana, who…

Prime Minister of Eswatini, Russell Mmiso Dlamini, spoke in UN General Assembly. He said Eswatini is committed to eradicating poverty through inclusive growth and robust social protection programmes and urged the international community to support these efforts by promoting fair trade, increasing development assistance and fostering partnerships that create jobs and uplift communities. “However, as a small, middle-income country, we face unique challenges, including limited access to international financing, vulnerability to climate change and economic shocks,” he said, calling on the international community to support the developmental aspirations of countries like Eswatini. “Eswatini has put forth a comprehensive SDG Recovery…

Tanzanian Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa emphasized the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a critical “beacon of hope” for addressing global issues in his speech on UN General Assembly. He expressed concern over slow progress, with only 17% of targets on track, and urged for urgent global solidarity to tackle economic imbalances, climate change, and conflicts. Highlighting Tanzania’s initiatives, such as empowering youth and women through agriculture, he also called for the right to self-determination for colonized peoples and the lifting of economic sanctions, particularly against Cuba. Majaliwa advocated for enhanced global peace efforts, recognized the importance of Kiswahili as a…

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education of Zimbabwe has acknowledged the evolving technological needs of students and has started implementing digital libraries in over 1,500 schools nationwide. Speaking at the 57th Zimbabwe Library Association Annual Conference, Minister Torerai Moyo said “This programme is identifying some of the most disadvantaged schools that benefited from solarisation and access to computers and laptops from various government agencies and development partners.” He emphasized that this initiative aims to improve access to educational resources, which will support human capital development and innovation as part of the country’s Vision 2030. He further stated that by…

The Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) has allocated 27 billion cubic meters of water to Zimbabwe and Zambia for hydropower generation at Lake Kariba in 2025, with hopes of favorable rainfall during the 2024/2025 season. In a statement released Friday, the bi-national authority, which oversees the Zambezi River’s waters, confirmed that the allocation would be evenly split between Zimbabwe’s Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) and Zambia’s ZESCO Limited. Lake Kariba is home to the Kariba Dam, where ZPC operates on the south bank and ZESCO on the north bank. ZRA Chief Executive Munyaradzi Munodawafa explained that the increase in water allocation, from…

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) announced on Friday that its staff and Ethiopia have reached an agreement on economic policies to conclude the first review of a four-year, $3.4 billion loan program. Upon formal approval by the IMF Executive Board, Ethiopia will gain access to approximately $345 million in financing. The IMF highlighted that Ethiopia is making significant progress in implementing its economic reform program, including the adoption of a floating exchange rate. These reforms are expected to enhance the country’s macroeconomic stability, increase foreign exchange availability, and promote sustainable economic growth. Ethiopia, Africa’s second-most populous country, secured the $3.4…

The Algerian Foreign Ministry announced on Thursday, September 26, the immediate reinstatement of a visa requirement for Moroccan passport holders. The decision is attributed to concerns over “destabilization activities,” including human and drug trafficking, espionage, and the presence of “Zionist agents.” This move marks a further deterioration in the already tense relations between Algeria and Morocco, which severed diplomatic ties in 2021. At the time, Algeria refrained from imposing a visa requirement to honor “solidarity values” due to the familial bonds between the two nations. The primary issue straining relations is Morocco’s stance on Western Sahara and its efforts to…

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has announced government initiatives to support small-scale miners and boost the mining sector’s contribution to Tanzania’s economy. Speaking during a working tour in Tunduru District, Ruvuma Region, she highlighted strategies under Vision 2030, including the recent inauguration of a modern mineral market to help miners secure better prices. The government has also provided drilling rigs to lower production costs, contributing to a 10.9% annual growth rate in the sector, which now accounts for 9.1% of Tanzania’s GDP. President Samia emphasized that 40% of the sector’s revenue comes from small-scale miners and praised investor-friendly laws for…

The First Lady of Akwa Ibom State of Nigeria, Pastor Mrs. Patience Umo Eno, passed away on Thursday, September 26, following a brief illness, as confirmed by an official statement issued by the state’s Commissioner for Information, Comrade Ini Ememobong. In the statement, titled “Unexpected Sunset,” Ememobong announced that Mrs. Patience Eno died peacefully at a hospital, surrounded by her family. He expressed the profound grief felt by the first family and the state government, while noting that they have submitted to God’s will during this difficult time. Governor Umo Eno, who is dealing with the personal loss of his…

Libyan Presidential Council Head, Mohamed Al-Mnifi, met with Sudan’s Sovereign Council leader, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, to address concerns about border security, terrorism, and organized crime. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York. Both leaders emphasized the strong ties between Libya and Sudan, focusing on shared challenges regarding border management and regional stability. They discussed ways to enhance cooperation in securing their common borders, which have been vulnerable to cross-border criminal activities like terrorism and trafficking. Al-Mnifi and al-Burhan also highlighted the need for continued coordination in regional and international…

Mbae Mohamed, Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Comoros, emphasized during his address that the General Assembly’s debate is taking place during a critical period, with the war in Ukraine threatening global stability. He urged Ukraine and Russia to work towards a ceasefire, highlighting that peace between these nations is essential for global stability, particularly in Africa. He condemned the war in Palestine, describing it as “purest form of genocide,” and called on the international community to push for an immediate end to hostilities, ensure humanitarian aid, and work towards a two-state solution based on international law and…

Vice President of Côte D’Ivoire, Tiemoko Meyliet Koné, during UN General Assembly session, addressed the pressing global challenges, calling for collective international action. He emphasized that geopolitical tensions, terrorism, and security issues—especially in the Sahel—are erasing years of development progress. He urged the international community to mobilize and support those suffering from terrorism, warning that the violence in West Africa could spread further if not addressed. Koné also highlighted the detrimental effects of climate change, exacerbating inequality and poverty, and causing mass displacement. He called for increased humanitarian assistance, the fulfillment of climate finance pledges by developed nations, and support…

In his speech, Prithvirajsing Roopun, President of Mauritius, emphasized the moral obligation of the United Nations to honor the sacrifices of those who suffered in war. He expressed concern over the erosion of core values like peace and justice, highlighting the suffering in Gaza and advocating for a two-State solution to ensure human dignity. Roopun called for the regulation of artificial intelligence based on international law and supported reforms in global financial institutions to reflect contemporary realities. He stressed the need for a multilateral approach to tackle climate change, particularly for small island states, and urged for an ambitious climate…

Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan, President of Sudan’s Transitional Sovereign Council, spoke in UN General Assembly. In Sudan, Al-Burhan talked about the war led by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which commit atrocities such as ethnic cleansing, genocide, and targeting civilians. He claimed that the RSF receives support from other countries, which has worsened the conflict, leading to the deaths of thousands and the displacement of millions. He called for the RSF to be labeled a terrorist organization and for the Security Council to address these issues to avoid impunity. Al-Burhan reaffirmed the Sudanese government’s commitment to protecting civilians and facilitating humanitarian aid,…

Adama Barrow, President of Gambia, emphasized his country’s commitment to promoting human rights and fostering a strong democratic environment. He highlighted the establishment of the National Human Rights Commission and a free, independent judiciary, which provides security for Gambian citizens and ensures access to justice. “Since 2017, there have been no political prisoners or jailed journalists or human rights activists in Gambia. In August 2024, Gambia was recognized as a leading defender of freedom of expression in Africa, ranking third in Article 19’s Global Expression Report 2024.” he said. Addressing international conflicts in Palestine, Sudan, the Sahel, Ukraine, the Russian…

Faustin Archange Touadera, President of the Central African Republic, welcomed the 30 July decision by the Security Council to lift the decade-long arms embargo on his country, calling it a delayed but positive step toward establishing peace, security, and sustainable development. He expressed hope that the diamond embargo, imposed by the Kimberley Process, would also be lifted to support the country’s economic growth, as peace and sustainable development are closely linked. Touadera noted that this year has brought stability to the Central African Republic, with the country preparing for its first regional democratic elections in 40 years. Efforts have been…

Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, the Transitional President of Gabon, stated the achievements of the country following the first anniversary of the Liberation Coup in UN General Assembly. He emphasized that Gabon has fulfilled its commitments to establish transitional institutions, release political prisoners, promote inclusivity, hold a national dialogue, and draft a new constitution. The next steps, he said, include organizing a referendum, adopting a new electoral code, and revising the electoral register. These efforts, supported by the people of Gabon, are part of a broader plan to restore constitutional order through free, transparent, and peaceful elections. Nguema also mentioned key…

Kenyan President William Samoei Ruto, in his speech during UN General Assembly session, expressed concern over the diminishing ability of the United Nations to prevent conflicts and maintain peace, citing ongoing wars and instability in regions like Gaza, Darfur, Ukraine, Yemen, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He criticized powerful states for prioritizing unilateral actions and militarization over diplomacy, which has weakened multilateral institutions. Ruto highlighted Kenya’s contributions to peacekeeping, particularly its role in the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to fight Al-Shabaab. He also noted Kenya’s involvement in South Sudan’s peace process through the Tumaini Initiative,…

In his speech during UN General Assembly session, President Lazarus McCarthy Chakwera of Malawi emphasized the urgent need for reform in the United Nations and other multilateral institutions, specifically advocating for Africa to be granted two permanent seats with veto power in the Security Council. He highlighted that strong multilateral cooperation is crucial for nations to survive global crises, such as the natural disasters that have recently affected Malawi, including Cyclone Freddy and El Niño. Chakwera pointed to Malawi’s development efforts, which include infrastructure and education projects, made possible through international partnerships with countries like the United Kingdom and Saudi…

Ramadhan Abdalla Mohammed Goc, Minister for Foreign Affairs of South Sudan, stated progress in the country’s peace and political stability efforts in his speech on UN General Assembly. However, he highlighted resource challenges in fully implementing the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict. He emphasized that all parties remain committed to peace, noting the decision to extend general elections by 24 months to allow more time for security and election institutions to fulfill their mandates. He called on the international community for financial and technical support to ensure a peaceful transition. Goc also addressed the impact of the Sudan…

Frederick Makamure Shava, Zimbabwe’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Trade, stated that Zimbabwe aims to achieve upper-middle-income status by 2030 through economic growth, sustainable development, and societal transformation in his speech on UN General Assembly. “Social protection programs have reduced poverty and disease, and the country is committed to empowering women and youth as key drivers of development.” he said. He also gave some messages about crisis around the world, and called for the lifting of the embargo on Cuba and expressed Zimbabwe’s support for the self-determination of the Palestinian people and Western Sahara. He urged the Security Council…

Togo’s President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, emphasized Togo’s commitment to sustainable, equitable, and inclusive development that is visionary and prioritizes the well-being of present and future generations. He stated that Africa, with its youthful population, holds potential to drive global growth, especially in blue and green economies, and renewable energy. He stressed that Africa, though minimally contributing to climate change, faces severe vulnerability, resulting in food insecurity and potential migration. “To counter these challenges, collective and coordinated international action is required, with a focus on peace, security, and economic development to address the root causes of violence and terrorism.” he stated.…

Prime Minister Allah Maye Halina of Chad highlighted the following key points in his speech on UN General Assembly: Overall, he called for greater global solidarity and action in addressing terrorism, climate change, inequality, and conflicts affecting both Africa and the broader world.

Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye, President of Senegal, emphasized the importance of unity in diversity for sustainable development and human dignity. Faye expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation in the Sahel, once stable but now plagued by terrorism, and urged the UN Security Council to act, warning against foreign interference. He also addressed the Palestinian crisis, calling for a ceasefire and a two-state solution, highlighting Senegal’s role as Chair of the Committee on the Rights of the Palestinian People. Faye defined peace as not just the absence of war but also ensuring human dignity through access to food, housing, education,…

In his speech on UN General Assembly, President Mokgweetsi E.K. Masisi of Botswana addressed several global challenges. He condemned attacks on innocent civilians, particularly in Gaza, and expressed concern over the deaths of UNRWA workers, emphasizing the need to protect them and condemning misinformation against the agency. He reiterated Botswana’s support for the two-state solution based on 1967 borders for peace between Israel and Palestine. Masisi also called for diplomacy to resolve the Ukraine conflict and highlighted Africa’s ongoing struggles with armed conflict and terrorism. He praised efforts by the African Union and the UN to address these issues and…

In his speech during UN General Assembly session, President of Liberia, Joseph Nyuma Boakai mentioned Liberia’s progress since the end of 14 years of civil conflict, and emphasized the country’s achievements in maintaining peace and democracy. He stated that Liberia has successfully held four democratic elections since 2006, with a significant transition of power in January 2024 marking a historic moment. He said that the government of Liberia is focused on strengthening democratic culture and the rule of law, promoting transparency and accountability to rebuild public trust. “A key initiative is the establishment of War and Economic Crimes Courts to…

In his speech, the President of Guinea-Bissau, Úmaro Sissoco Embaló, emphasized the country’s commitment to strengthening democracy, and sustainable development. He said that despite global economic challenges, Guinea-Bissau’s economy continues to grow due to sound public policies, greater transparency, and accountability in financial management. He highlighted that the country remains dedicated to peacebuilding and the peaceful resolution of conflicts, both regionally in West Africa and globally. Recent diplomatic visits to Russia, Ukraine, Israel, and Palestine were part of this commitment. He called for ending the embargo on Cuba, which was described by him as unjust and harmful. The president also…

The President of Democratic Republic of Congo, Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo stated in UN General Assembly that the situation in the eastern Congo is critical due to the resurgence of the M23 armed group, backed by Rwanda. He said that this situation has led to a humanitarian crisis, with nearly 7 million internally displaced people, and a serious violation of DRC’s sovereignty. He called on the international community to condemn these actions and impose sanctions on Rwanda. While diplomatic efforts like the Luanda talks are promising, urgent action is needed to resolve the crisis, including the immediate withdrawal of Rwandan troops,…

Mohamed Younis A Menfi, President of the Presidential Council of Libya, described act of Israel as genocide and ethnic cleansing by occupation against the Palestinian and Lebanese people, calling it a severe violation of international law. He emphasized that impunity for these actions will not be tolerated and announced that Libya has joined South Africa’s case at the International Court of Justice to hold Israel accountable to international laws. Menfi stressed the need for accountability for what he termed the “mass genocide” of the Palestinian people. He also highlighted Libya’s support for an independent Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its…

In his speech in UN General Assembly, Mohamed Younis A Menfi, President of the Presidential Council of Libya, discussed migration and its potential links to terrorism, highlighting Libya’s role as a transit country. He called for coordinated efforts to address migration while protecting migrants’ rights. Menfi also emphasized Libya’s success in defeating Da’esh, attributing it to the sacrifices of its people, the military, and international support. He stressed that combating terrorism requires more than military action; it needs a comprehensive, local, and international approach to address its many dimensions. Menfi urged unity as the key to Libya’s stability, calling on…

In his speech in UN General Assembly, Mohamed Younis A Menfi, President of the Presidential Council of Libya, addressed the challenges his country has faced over the past decade, including conflicts fueled by external interference aimed at controlling its resources and political decisions. He emphasized the need for a strong stance to regain control and highlighted the importance of consensual solutions and national dialogue to address the complex challenges Libya faces. Menfi criticized certain political parties for obstructing the reconciliation process, which has resulted in deep institutional divisions and a failure to fulfill commitments to accords and Security Council resolutions.…