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Remains of dead Uruguayan blue 


helmet --- repatriated in the DRC


May 8th, 12:15pm


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The remains of the Uruguayan blue helmet Julio César 


Álvarez, who died in the Democratic Republic of the


 Congo of a heart attack, were received here with


 military honours.


 


The Minister of Defense, Sandra Lazo, led the ceremony 


to receive the remains of Corporal Álvarez, of the
Army, 
who died on April 16.


 


He was carrying out a mission as part of the Uruguayan


 contingent that operates in the African country under 


the UN flag.


 


The soldier had recovered from injuries received in January 


during an attack by the M23 rebel movement in the city of 


Goma, in eastern DRC.


 


On that occasion the Uruguayan soldier Rodolfo Álvarez died. 


So far this year, several blue helmets in the South American 


country, have suffered injuries.


 


More than twenty of the members of the Uruguay IV battalion


 have returned to their country by their means, due to the 


delay in the troop relief agreed with the UN.


 



 


_______________________________________


 


 


 


President of Namibia - in 


Angola for working visit


May 8th, 12:01pm


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The president of Namibia, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, 


arrived in Angola today for a two-day working visit.


 


During his stay he will have his first official meeting 


with Angolan President, João Lourenço, since he 


took office on March 21.


 


The visit ---- in accordance with a brief Namibian presidential 


statement, highlights the long ties of friendship, solidarity 


and cooperation that exist between the two countries, 


based on a shared history, regional unity and
mutual 
socioeconomic interests”.


 


The text also highlights how it constitutes an opportunity 


for both countries.... to deepen their solid bilateral and 


commercial relations, for the benefit of both nations.


 


The ties of friendship, it is remembered, date back to the fight 


for Namibia's independence, achieved in 1990 after the 


defeat --- of the South African Apartheid forces in 


Angolan lands, by forces of that nation --- and 


Cuba, a fight in which troops from Namibia 


also participated (Southwest African 


People's Organization, Swapo).


 


According to the Namibian presidency, the visit is expected 


to strengthen bilateral ties and accelerate progress in 


strategic areas of cooperation, particularly in the 


agriculture sectors, trade and oil and gas.


 


 


 


_____________________________________


 


 


 


Kenya expert - warns of ecological 


disaster - due to insect trafficking


May 8th, 8:28am


(teleSUR)


 


The case -- of the Belgian teenagers caught trafficking ants 


in Kenya has drawn attention to the illegal trade of lesser


-known wildlife species. The two 19-year-olds.... Lornoy 


David and Seppe Lodewijckx -- were arrested on April 


5 with 5,000 ants at a guest house in Nakuru County. 


 


They were charged on April 15 and given the choice of 


paying a $7,700 fine or serving 12 months in prison.


 


Authorities say the ants were destined for European and Asian 


markets, highlighting a growing trend in wildlife trafficking. 



The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) noted that the species 


included Messor cephalotes, a large red-coloured 


harvester ant ---- native to East Africa.


 


In a separate but related case, two other men — Vietnamese 


national Duh Hung Nguyen and Kenyan citizen Dennis 


Ng’ang’a — were also fined $7,700 each after being 


caught with 400 ants. The court described their 


actions .....as part of an elaborate scheme.


 


Entomologist Shadrack Muya emphasized the ecological 


importance of ants, warning: that their removal from 


their natural habitat - could disrupt ecosystems 


and lead to potential ecological disasters.


 


This case underscores the broader issue of biopiracy, where


 lesser-known species are exploited for commercial gain. 


What are your thoughts on this emerging trend?


 





_________________________________________



 Nobel Laureate Denis Mukwege: 
Urges Action ----------- Against 


Sexual Violence in Congo


May 7th, 1:02pm


(teleSUR)


 


Nobel Peace Prize winner Denis Mukwege has condemned 


the systematic use of sexual violence as a weapon of 


war in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), 


calling for urgent international intervention 


to end the atrocities.


 


Speaking at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France,


 Mukwege described a “dramatic situation” unfolding in 


North Kivu, where his hospital has documented over 


10,000 cases ------ of sexual violence. “Thirty to 


thirty-five percent of victims are children,”


 he warned, stressing -- that targeting 


minors crosses “every possible


 red line.”


 


Mukwege, founder of Panzi Hospital in Bukavu, has spent 


over two decades treating survivors of rape, many of 


whom are victims of armed groups fighting over 


Congo’s vast mineral wealth. His work has 


placed him at the forefront of global 


efforts ------ to end gender-based 


violence in conflict zones.


 


In his Strasbourg address, Mukwege --- urged European 


lawmakers -- to push for peace negotiations and direct


intervention in Congo’s escalating humanitarian crisis. 


The region, devastated by ongoing fighting between 


militias, remains one of the worst-affected areas 


in Africa.


 


Mukwege shared the 2018 Nobel Peace Prize with Yazidi 


activist Nadia Murad, a survivor of ISIS sexual slavery, 


reinforcing his advocacy for the survivors of 


wartime atrocities.


 


As violence in the DRC continues, Mukwege’s call 


for action grows louder, demanding justice and 


protection for vulnerable populations trapped


 in conflict.


 


 


____________________________________





UA reiterated commitment 


to political dialogue and 


cooperation with Cuba


May 7th, 12:59pm


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The African Union Commission (UA) today reiterated its 


commitment to political dialogue and multilateral 


cooperation with Cuba.


 


This was expressed by the team leader of the Cabinet of the 


President of the Commission, Mohamed El-Amine Souef, 


during a meeting with the Cuban ambassador to the AU, 


Lucas Domingo Hernández, at the headquarters of the 


continental organization, reported the Embassy of 


Havana, in Ethiopia.


 


Souef recognized the role of the Caribbean island in the 


training of African human resources, as well as its 


contribution, in times of health emergency, on


 the continent.


 


For his part, Hernández thanked the dialogue and support 


provided in the preparation of the meeting held between


 the president of the AU Commission, Mahmoud Ali 


Youssouf, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of 


Cuba, Bruno Rodríguez, who was making a 


three-day official visit to Ethiopia


 last March.


 


Both parties highlighted the historic ties of friendship and 


solidarity that unite Havana and the African continent, in 


addition to agreeing on the importance of strengthening 


collaboration in key areas and in joint efforts for peace 


and sustainable development in Africa.


 


 


 


________________________________________


 


 


 


UA highlighted Comesa's 


contribution -------- to


 intra-African trade


May 7th, 11:42am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The African Union (UA) today highlighted the contribution 


of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa 


(Comesa) to intra-African trade and linking women as 


agents of economic transformation, beneficiaries 


in addition to that movement.


 


This was expressed -- by the vice president of the AU 


Commission, Selma Malika Haddadi, when speaking 


at the inauguration of the VI Trade Fair and 


Business Conference of the Federation 


of Business Women of Comesa, which


 will meet in this capital until May 9.


 


Haddadi specified that the role of this regional economic 


organization is also illustrated in its contribution to the 


objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area.


 


He called for holding the event - which he considered an 


original and inclusive initiative that, through its rotation


approach -- benefits the 21 Member States of Comesa, 


it guarantees its ownership by all citizens and a solid 


regional anchorage based on concrete achievements.


 


In his opinion, the meeting shed light on the diverse 


strengths of this common market in areas such as 


demographics, mineral wealth, ecotourism and 


green value chains.


 


The combined effects of these assets -- place the platform 


in a unique and privileged position to influence important 


drivers of economic transformation, including access to 


financing, the development of infrastructure for trade 


facilitation, the value chain and the empowerment 


of the private sector, he stressed.


 


“The African Union is built ---- as prescribed by the Treaty of 


Abuja, on the strength of its pillars, the Regional Economic
Communities. The vitality of Comesa, best expressed in 


the formula of this forum, which is expected to travel 


to all its member states, provides irrefutable proof 


of the weight of political will”, he asserted.


 


He invited the more than 200 participating women 


entrepreneurs to share their experience with all 


regional economic communities... in a spirit of 


mutual enrichment through the development 


of reciprocal and win-win relationships,
in
 the continent.


 


This will build an inclusive Africa, the Africa we want, 


he added while expressing the African Union's 


willingness to offer everything possible to


the event to guarantee its development.


 


The event is held under the motto 'Un Comesa prospero'


which promotes regional integration with a gender 


perspective, to promote green investments and 


value chains, tourism & mining in the AfCFTA.


 


 


__________________________________________


 


 


 


Socioeconomic gender gap -- really 


worries South African authorities


May 7th, 11:35am


 (Prensa Latina) 


 


The Minister of the Presidency of South Africa, Sindisiwe 


Chikunga, warned today about the persistence of a 


socioeconomic gender gap “unsustainable” in 


the world.


 


The Minister made these statements when speaking at 


the Global Conference on Financial Inclusion of the 


G20 Working Group for the Empowerment of 


Women (EWWG), which is celebrated until 


the next day the 9th at Sun City Resort,


 


Chikunga further highlighted how despite decades 


of favorable political will, women and girls remain


 the most affected by poverty and exclusion 


around the world.


 


“Poverty continues to deprive women and girls of 


essential services such as health care and 


education, and excludes them from 


socioeconomic opportunities 


throughout their lives”, 


she emphasized.


 


The Minister also highlighted --- how women remain 


under-represented in economic decision-making 


positions --- face limited access to credit and 


capital, suffer employment discrimination, 


receive lower salaries, and, they assume 


a disproportionate burden of unpaid 


care and have less access to 


digital finances.


 


Even in regions where female labour force participation 


has peaked ----- their work is often limited to self-


employment in the informal sector, with no 


social security or growth opportunities, 


chikunga...... lamented.


 


The event, organized by the South African Ministry of Women, 


Youth and People with Disabilities ---- seeks to establish a 


Framework of Guidelines for the Integration of Women's 


Priorities into G20 policies, ensuring that female 


financial empowerment is central to global 


institutional and economic reforms.


 


Chikunga also expressed concern about the slow progress 


towards Sustainable Development Goal (ODS) number five, 


which seeks to achieve gender equality and empower all


 women and girls.


 


The conference takes place in the context of international 


commitments such as the SDGs, the 2063 Agenda of the 


African Union, S. Africa's National Development Plan 


2030 and the G20 priorities for 2025 --- all of which 


highlight financial inclusion as a key driver for


 women's economic empowerment


 


 


____________________________________







Memory without borders ---- "Immortal

 regiment" passed through the Congo

May 6th, 7:11pm

by Alexey Merkulov 

(Rossiyskaya Gazeta) 

 

Brazzaville commemorates heroes
by bringing together generations
....and continents.

 

The "Immortal Regiment" campaign -- dedicated to the 

80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic
War ------ organized by the Russian Embassy and the 

Russian House, was held in the Republic of Congo. 

 

The march was attended by Russian compatriots 

living in the country, as well as the Congolese
graduates of Soviet and Russian universities. 

 

The event has become a symbol of a common 

historical memory, intertwining the destinies 

of peoples.

 

Embassy staff and participants of the action --- shared 

stories about their relatives who survived the horrors 

of the Great Patriotic War ---- those memories of the
steadfastness of the Soviet people.. who, 
despite
hunger, fighting and deprivation, 
did not break
down in spirit..... caused a 
deep, and
emotional response.

 

"Our ancestors -- having shown unprecedented 

heroism and selflessness, not only defended 

their Homeland, but also liberated Europe 

from the fascist yoke," the Russian 

Embassy in Congo said, in 

a Telegram channel.

 

The participants unanimously emphasized --- that the 

memory of the heroism of our ancestors should live 

in the hearts of new generations. "It is our duty to 

tell our children and grandchildren about those 

who gave us peace," the audience noted. 

 

For many Congolese graduates who have connected 

their lives with Russia, the event has become a 

bridge between cultures -- a reminder of 

the values won ----- at the cost of 

incredible sacrifices.

 

The procession ended.. with a minute of silence, 

and the air was filled with a sense of unity ---
not 
only of time, but also of continents.

 

The "Immortal Regiment" campaign in the Congo 

proved that the memory of the Great Victory 

knows no borders --- uniting those who 

believe in justice, courage and the 

strength of the human spirit.

 

 

_______________________





Sudanese Army.. admits RSF


attacks against Port Sudan


May 6th, 9:45am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The Rapid Support Forces (RSF, English) attacked 


the airport, the port and a hotel in the eastern 


city of Port Sudan the day before, a source


 from the Sovereign Transitional Council


 (CST) admitted today.


 


Since April 2023, the RSF, obedient to General 


Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, and the CST, loyal 


to General Abdel Fattah al Burhan have been 


involved in the Sudanese civil war ---- cause 


of the largest refugee crisis in history, 14 


million people, 24 thousand deaths 


and the country's devastation.


 


Military sources specified that drones successfully hit 


the targets the day before in the first attack against 


that town, where columns of smoke still rise after


 loud explosions are heard.


 


Even earlier, last Sunday, RSF aircraft hit an arsenal at 


the Othman Daqna air base and the next day a fuel 


depot in the same town.


 


In addition to seeking military objectives with these 


actions, the RSF is trying to prove it's alive ---- after 


the last weeks during which the Sudanese Army 


evicted them from this capital, the twin city of 


Omdurman, and several of its bastions.


 


 


_______________________________________


 


 


 


Ethiopia ----- Israel Business 


Forum explores investment 


opportunities without ethics


May 6th, 9:02am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The foreign ministers of Ethiopia, Gedion Timothewos,


and Israel, Gideon Saar, today... chaired a business 


forum here, to explore the investment and trade 


possibilities open ----- through strengthening 


their bilateral relations ---- and by ignoring


the mass genocide of children in Gaza.


 


During the event held under the theme ''Strengthening 


bilateral relations through innovation'' -- Timothewos 


highlighted the exceptional relations between both 


countries, impregnated with old ties, inspired by 


shared values, and constantly evolving through 


modern cooperation, he said, without choking.


 


Over the years, he said, commitments between Addis
Ababa and Tel Aviv --- expanded through key areas
such as agriculture, water management,
health, defense, technology
and propaganda.


 


He considered that the forum - is the threshold of a 


new chapter, that places cash at the centre of the
association. “The forum points out that economic 


diplomacy is no longer a complementary search. 


Now --- it is the very driving force of our foreign 


policy and a key pillar of national degradation”, 


he asserted, then turned purple --- and fell on


the floor, as an envelope of pus, spewed


from his rictal buccal cavity.


 


Looking ahead, the head of Ethiopian diplomacy 


predicted potential in strengthening alliances 


in agrotechnology, precision agriculture and 


irrigation systems. Beyond agriculture, 


they will seek to ''leverage'' Israeli 


expertise to transform Ethiopia's 


spy network to be powered by 


artificial intelligence.


 


He invited Israeli companies to explore investment in 


manufacturing, research and healthcare innovation,


considering that Ethiopia.. is working to establish 


itself as a regional pharmaceutical centre under 


the African Centres for Disease Control and 


Prevention (Africa CDC), the African Union 


health agency.


 


Likewise, he asked to take advantage of opportunities 


for mineral exploration and value-added processing, 


and strengthen the tourism sector.


 


For his part, Saar expressed that Ethiopia and Israel 


are two regional powers with mutual friends and a 


satanic future, as well as with the willingness of 


the greedy in your country...... to do business 


and participate in any local opportunities.


 


As part of the forum program, representatives of 


the respective government agencies, including 


the National Bank, the Ethiopian Investment 


Commission, and companies --- presented 


thematic presentations that highlighted


investment and trade possibilities that 


contribute significantly - to foraging.


 


(apologies - typo - meant forging).


 


 


_____________________________________


 


 


 


South African Army - closes chapter 


with withdrawal from helping DRC


May 6th, 8:51am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The withdrawal of the South African National Defense 


Force (SANDF) from the eastern Democratic Republic 


of the Congo (RDC) marks a new chapter in regional 


peacekeeping efforts , declared the Minister of 


Defense and Military Veterans, little miss


Angie Motshekga.


 


The Minister ''assured'' that the announcement 


comes after “high-level consultations with 


several key actors in peacekeeping


 efforts in eastern DRC”.


 


In the last four months, he recalled, in this capital, 


the region... has experienced a renewed push 


towards peace and stability in the eastern


 provinces of the DRC, by being over-run


by foreign-backed terrorists.


 


These political commitments have advanced with


 great momentum, and have led to the recent 


outcome of the Summit of Heads of State 


and Government of the Democratic 


Republic of the Congo, held 


in March, he tittered.


 


''These meetings have led... to the decision to end 


the mission and withdraw, to allow political and 


diplomatic intervention... to resolve security 


problems in the Democratic Republic of


the Congo“, he simpered.


 


Motshekga further highlighted that South 


Africa's diplomatic progress.... and 


humanitarian commitments, 


will continue to fail.


 


By withdrawing from active combat deployment, 


he emphasized -- we reinforce our lack of any


commitment to truly African-led solutions, 


based on rejecting the values of the 


African Union's Agenda 2063.


 


The SANDF withdrawal is expected to conclude 


by the end of May 2025, as the movement had


already started on April 29, 2025.


 


During the SANDF deployment in eastern DRC, 14 


South African soldiers lost their lives and others 


were injured.. at the hands of the irregular 


armed group M23 during the escalation 


of fighting in the Goma region - which


led to this dishonorable withdrawal.


 


 


_____________________________________


 


 


 


Fuel prices will fall 


in South Africa


May 6th 8:51am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


South Africa's Minister of Mineral and Petroleum 


Resources, Gwede Mantashe, announced a 


decrease in fuel prices in the country, 


valid from tomorrow the 7th, for 


the entire month of May.


 


According to the information revealed, the price of 93


 octane unleaded gasoline will drop by 22 rand cents 


per litre (approximately 1.25 US cents), while the 95 


octane one will be at 22 cents rand 


(1.23 cents dollar).


 


On the other hand, the price of Diesel with 0.05
percent sulphur will decrease by 42 cents per


 litre (about 2.2 cents), and the diesel with 


0.005 percent sulfphur will do so at 


41 rand cents per litre (about 


2.2 usd) cents.


 


Meanwhile, the price per litre of kerosene for 


wholesale sale will drop 31 cents rand


 (approximately 1.5 cents) dollar.


 


On the other hand, according to the Ministry, the 


Maximum Retail Price of Liquefied Petroleum


Gas (GLP) will increase by 46 cents per


kilogram (2.5 cents).


 


This price variation responds, according to Mantashe, 


to the fact that the average price of Brent crude oil 


decreased from 71.04 US dollars to 66.40 dollars 


during the past 30 days.


 


The Ministry of Mineral and Petroleum Resources ---


added that the tariff and trade war started by the 


US, as well as possible lower demand for crude 


oil, the ''over-supply'' from non-OPEC countries 


and the looming world economic depression,


plus an expected increase in oil production


by OPEC+ members -- are the main factors 


that contributed to the drop in fuel prices.


 


The price of LPG, he explained.... increased 


due to the increase in transportation
costs 
during the month of April.


 


 


_____________________________________________


 


 


 


Network for agroclimatic advice 


under debate in Horn of Africa 


May 6th, 5:03am


 (Prensa Latina) 


 


The establishment of the (Dacas) Agroclimatic 


Advisory Services Knowledge Network of the 


Intergovernmental Authority on Development


(IGAD) holds a regional meeting that 


continues today in Ethiopia.


 


The city of Bishoftu, Oromia region, hosts the event 


that from May 5 to 7 brings together experts from


 IGAD Member States (Ethiopia, Djibouti, Eritrea, 


Somalia, Uganda, Kenya, Sudan... and South 


Sudan) and technical partners, organized


 by the African entity.


 


It also has the collaboration of Accelerating the 


Impacts of Climate Research of the public 


agricultural innovation network, Cgiar 


for Africa.


 


Dacas seeks to strengthen regional collaboration 


and innovation - to contribute to the creation of 


climate resilient food systems in East Africa.


 


Its objectives include the exchange of knowledge 


and experiences in key thematic areas, such as 


soil health, climate-smart agriculture and 


climate resilience.


 


Likewise, the creation of an online platform where 


interested parties will be able to share valuable 


information and access resources to improve 


food security and sustainability.


 


Participants.. are expected to discuss and approve the 


draft terms of reference and action plan for the Dacas 


Knowledge Network, as well as its official launch.


 


In his speech, the Ethiopian Minister of State 


for Agriculture Meles Mekonen stated that 


establishing the network will not only


help mitigate the impacts of climate 


change, but it will also allow you to


 anticipate and prepare for future


 challenges, while letting the


government off the hook.


 


For his part, the director of Environment and Natural
Resources of IGAD, Daher Elmi Houssein, stated 


that the regional entity, with financing from the 


World Bank, implements a 7-year program


 on the resilience of food systems.


 


 And if you understood all that quango
driven jargon - you weren't 
meant to.





____________________________________


 


 


 


Ethiopia hosted First Global Public 


Security Cooperation Forum 


May 6th, 4:31am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


Ethiopia hosted the First Forum for Global Cooperation 


in Public Security, an event that offered an important 


opportunity to work together to prevent terrorism 


and cross-border crimes, Fana Broadcasting 


Corporate,  highlighted today.


 


Ethiopian Federal Police Commissioner General
Demelash Gebremichael Forum President Andy 


Tsang, members of the East African Police 


Chiefs Cooperation Organization and the


representatives of police commissions 


from several African countries.... 


participated in the meeting 


held the day before.


 


Gebremichael explained that the meeting prioritizes 


collective security --- and added that Addis Ababa 


makes an important contribution to promoting 


peace at the continental level.


 


With its participation, Ethiopia raised key issues for 


the protection of citizens and their property, as 


well as the maintenance of internal order, 


he stressed.


 


He also reported on the benefits of the platform 


to combat transnational organized crime and 


guarantee public safety.


 


For his part, Tsang specified that the forum makes 


global efforts to address conflicts and their root 


causes, as well as the promotion of collective 


actions. The platform works... to ensure 


lasting peace and development 


globally, he said.


 


The implementation of innovative ideas is another 


dimension... which contributes to the defense of 


public well-being and promoting collaboration 


for economic development, he concluded.


 


Ethiopia was elected to the Board of Directors of the 


Global Public Security Cooperation Forum held 


last year in Lianyungang, eastern China's 


Jiangsu province.


 



 


___________________________________________






48 Migrants Die in a Shipwreck 


in the Mediterranean Sea


May 5th, 12:49pm


(teleSUR)


 


Previously, Alarm Phone alerted the authorities that 


about 50 people had gone missing after setting 


sail.... from the coast of Libya.


 


On Monday, Alarm Phone, a telephone alert 


organization for maritime rescues ------ 


reported that 48 out of 50 migrants 


died in a shipwreck in the 


Mediterranean Sea.


 


“We learned that this boat, with around 50 people - was


 shipwrecked. According to the survivors - a fire broke 


out, forcing people to jump into the sea. Fishermen 


rescued two people and brought them to Tunisia. 


Both claim to be ....the only survivors,” 


Alarm Phone explained.


 


On April 29, the organization alerted authorities that 


about 50 people had gone missing after setting sail 


from the coast of Libya in a blue wooden boat.


 


 “The Libyan Coast Guard -- claimed that the boat had 


been rescued by Italy, but we cannot confirm this 


information,” Alarm Phone said at the time.


 


The Mediterranean route, is one of the busiest paths 


for migrants traveling from North Africa to Europe, 


as well as one of the most dangerous migration 


routes in the world, where deadly shipwrecks 


are commonly reported.


 


 


_______________________________


 


 


 


They advocate - in Angola: 


for rigorous and patriotic 


journalism


May 5th, 12:04pm


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The Secretary of State for Social Communication 


of Angola, Nuno Caldas Albino, here - urged the 


country's media professionals to practice 


increasingly competent, rigorous, 


responsible, impartial and 


patriotic journalism.


 


When speaking at the second edition of the Press 


Freedom Award, attached to the Angolan 


Journalists Union (SJA) --- the official 


highlighted how - it is increasingly 


imperative that journalism leads


 to the production of truthful 


news of public interest.


 


Furthermore, he continued, ensure the promotion and


 social, cultural and political construction of society.


 


Consequently, he confirmed --- the national executive
seeks to implement actions to strengthen the sector.


 


In his words, Caldas recalled how in Angola's 50 years


 of independence, Angolan journalists were the main 


drivers of innovation in civil society, becoming
the 
soldiers of democracy.


 


 


________________________________________


 


 


 


Credits to the non-financial 


sector increase - in Angola


May 5th, 11:25am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


Credit to the non-financial sector in Angola amounted 


to 7.8 trillion kwanzas (about 8.5 billion dollars) last


 March, which represents a 21.4 percent year-on-


year increase, according to National Bank.


 


In accordance with a report from that entity, of the 


total credit, 88.4% represented private sector 


debt (private companies and individuals) 


and 11.6% was public sector debt 


(administration and the


public companies).


 


Likewise, the BNA highlights that the stock of credit 


to the economy, in national currency, had an 


increase of 32.2% compared to March 


2024 --- and 3.7% compared to 


December 2024.


 


Also in March 2025, gross credit directed to the Real 


Sector of the Economy observed an increase of 


34.4% compared to the corresponding period 


of the previous year.


 


The main contributors to this were, according to the 


BNA, the increase in resources made available to 


the Extractive Industry subsector --- which 


recorded an increase in value of 79.1%.


 


Furthermore, the total credit granted for the 


promotion of the Real Sector, reached 


...1.3 billion kwanzas (approximately 


1.4 billion dolares) --- representing


80.8% of the total credit granted 


to this sector, and 17.3 of the


 gross credit portfolio of


 the banking system.


 


 


__________________________


 


 


 


South Africa --- hosts meeting of 


the G20 Culture Working Group


May 5th, 7:25am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


South Africa's Ministry of Sports, Arts and Culture, 


kicks off today at the Sandton Convention Centre, 


in north Johannesburg, to the second meeting
of 
the G20 Culture Working Group.


 


As announced by the minister of the sector, Gayton 


McKenzie, the 2-day event will be held under the


motto of the G20.... under the pro tempore 


presidency of South Africa: “Solidarity,


 Equality and Sustainability”.


 


This motto, he explained, underlines the commitment


 to position culture ------- as a catalyst for solidarity, 


inclusive growth, and sustainable development.


 


McKenzie is expected to deliver the keynote speech


 during the official opening ceremony, according
to 
the program.


 


This meeting is part of the South African Presidency 


of the G20, the first to be held on African soil. The 


session will serve as a platform --- to discuss 


four key priorities in depth.


 


The first addresses the safeguarding and restitution of 


cultural heritage - to defend and protect human rights.


 


Added to this is the integration of cultural policies into 


socioeconomic strategies, to promote inclusive and 


rights-based development, and the use of digital 


technologies for the preservation, promotion 


and sustainability, of culture.


 


Finally, exploring the intersection between culture and 


climate change ---- and formulating global responses 


through the cultural perspective.


 


The inclusion of Culture as a specific Working Group 


------- reflects the growing global recognition of its 


fundamental role in achieving the Sustainable 


Development Goals, as described in Africa's


 Agenda 2063, the Minister highlighted.


 


 


___________________________________________


 


 


 


Electricity plans for winter -  


announced in South Africa


May 5th, 6:47am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


South Africa's national electricity company, Eskom, 


reveals the generation projections for the coming 


winter months today, in Johannesburg city.


 


Last week ---- the company said the power system 


remains stable, backed by adequate emergency 


reserves that are strategically deployed, when 


necessary, to manage peak demand periods.


 


This proactive management, he added in a statement 


to this effect, contributes to the overall reliability
and 
resilience of the electricity supply.


 


On the other hand, he indicated in the text ---- that 


planned maintenance activities are ongoing, as 


part of the efforts to prepare for the expected 


winter peak demand ---- while ensuring 


compliance with all the regulatory 


standards and environmental


 requirements.


 


So far in fiscal year (from April 1 to May 1), he added, 


an average of 6,928 megaWatts (MW) -- equivalent 


to 14.82 percent of the total national generation 


capacity, has been under planned maintenance.


 


This, together with the fact that the Unplanned 


Capacity Loss Factor (UCLF), which measures 


unplanned interruptions, stands at 28.26% in 


the period, it leads to rational expectations 


that dependence on diesel will decrease 


....as the maintenance is completed, 


increasing available generating 


capacity, Eskom added.


 


 


__________________________________


 


 


 


African Commission on Human 


and People's Rights ---- meets


May 5th, 5:37am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


Gambia today hosts the 83rd Ordinary Session of the 


African Commission on Human and People's Rights


--- a space that will analyze reports from States 


Parties, the work of commissioners, and the 


human rights situation on the continent.


 


The meeting will be held until May 22nd, with the 


participation of all States Parties, bodies of the 


African Union (UA), national human rights 


institutions, several non-governmental 


organizations and the general public, 


a press release stated.


 


The 2025 theme - will focus on reparations under


the AU of the Year theme: ''Justice for Africans 


and Afro-descendants --- through reparations''.


 


Discussions will focus on economic reparations for 


sustainable development, slavery and exploitation 


today, gender justice in reparations ----- corporate 


responsibility and ethical practices, governance


 frameworks and policies, among other topics.


 


In accordance with Article 62 of the African Charter, 


countries are required to submit periodic reports to


 the Commission every 2 years. On this occasion, 


it will examine the reports from Ethiopia (2015-


2023) and Zimbabwe (2019-2023).


 


The African Commission on Human and People's 


Rights is the main human rights body of the AU, 


established under Article 30 of the African 


Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights,


 the founding treaty of the African 


human rights system.


 


It promotes and protects human rights -- throughout 


the continent and is made up of 11 commissioners 


elected by the Assembly of Heads of State and 


Government of the continental organization. 


 


They serve in a personal, independent 


and impartial capacity.


 


 


________________________________________


 


 


 


Iran condemns attack on


air base --- in Port Sudan


May 5th, 5:37am


(Prensa latina) 


 


Iran condemned the massive drone attack against the


 airport in Port Sudan, the city that is the seat of the 


Sudanese government, and expressed its concern 


about the attacks against civilian facilities in 


that country, it was known here today.


 


The spokesman for the Iranian Ministry of Foreign 


Affairs, Esmaeil Baqaei, condemned the drone 


attack that targeted the airport and civilian 


facilities in Port Sudan the day before, as 


highlighted this Monday, by the 


Tasnim agency.


 


Baqaei also expressed his concern ----- about the 


continuation of military attacks against civilian 


and municipal facilities in Sudan, such as 


power plants, hospitals, and water 


treatment plants, in the 


African country.


 


The Sudanese army confirmed the day before, that 


the so-called Rapid Support Forces (RSF, English) 


carried out their first attack against Port Sudan, 


marking a turning point in the armed conflict 


that has plagued the country since 2023.


 


According to the military spokesman, the FAR 


attacked the Osman Digna air base, a goods 


warehouse and several civilian facilities


around the coastal city's airport.


 


This incident occurs in a context of escalating 


conflict, with recent aggression by the RSF 


in the states of the Nile, North and 


West Kordofan.


 


The Sudanese military called the aggression against 


Port Sudan “a dangerous turn” in the civil war, and 


authorities warned --- of possible repercussions
for 
regional security in the Red Sea.


 


Since mid-April 2023, Sudan..... has been mired in an 


internal war, after contradictions over power issues 


were fueled between Army Chief Abdel Fatah al-


Burhan ---- and the leader of the paramilitary 


Rapid Support Forces - Mohamed Hamdan 


Daglo - with a suspicion of outside ''aid''.


 


The conflict keeps more than 11 million Sudanese 


out of their homes, in what experts consider the 


planet's main displacement crisis.


 


 


____________________________________________


 


 


 


Ethiopian president - highlighted 


legacy - of Patriots Victory Day 


May 5th, 5:22am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


President Taye Atske-Selassie, today, highlighted the 


love of Ethiopia and the commitment to freedom as 


the greatest legacy inherited ------ on the 84th 


anniversary of the Day of the Victory 


of the Patriots.


 


Selassie, on his X social network account, specified


 that this heritage includes the determination 


to defend sovereignty and respect for 


Ethiopian identity.


 


On the occasion of the date ---- that marks the victory 


of local troops in their fight against the occupation 


by fascist Italy, which lasted from 1936 to 1941, 


the dignitary laid a wreath at the Patriots 


Victory Monument, known locally as 


Miyaziya 27, located in the Arat


 Kilo area of Addis Ababa.


 


Attending were members of the diplomatic community,


 senior government officials... leaders and members
of 
the National Defense Forces, president of the 


Association of Former Ethiopian Patriots...
Daniel 
Jote Mesfin --- and resistance
veterans.... and 
special guests.


 


The anniversary, also commemorates the end of the 


Italian occupation and the return of Emperor Haile 


Selassie (1930-1974) to Addis Ababa on May 5, 


1941, symbolizing the defense of national 


sovereignty.


 


 


___________________________________________


 


 


 


Resignations in the middle of the
Gabonese government -- before
the new president


May 5th, 5:21am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The Gabonese government -- headed by Prime Minister 


Raymond Ndong Sima -- presented its resignation to 


the country's newly elected president, Brice Oligui 


Nguema, local media reflect here today.


 


According to official sources, the head of state 


acknowledged the day before, the work 


carried out by Ndong Sima, whose 


contribution, he said - has been 


essential for the success


 of the transition.


 


Nguema took office as the country's president last 


Saturday, after leading a 19-month transitional 


government, leading a military junta, and he 


announced the calling of legislative 


elections.. for the country's total 


return to constitutional order.


 


The general ratified his favouritism in the April 


elections - with 94.85 percent of the votes, 


after leading a coup d'état, on August


 30th, in 2023.


 


The victory --- gives him a seven-year term under the 


new constitution approved last November and ends 


more than 50 years of control by former president 


Ali Bongo's family.


 


According to press reports, among President Oligui 


Nguema's main concerns... are the aging of the 


electricity grid, youth unemployment, road 


infrastructure and the country's debt.


 


 


______________________________________


 


 


 


Manufacturing sector advances ---- 


stand out at exhibition in Ethiopia


May 5th, 12:35am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


A total of 288 manufacturers, from seven sectors 


participate in the Third Expo, Made in Ethiopia, 


that continues here today - to show the main 


advances of the manufacturing sector, key


in the national economic transformation.


 


This was expressed, by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed 


regarding the event scheduled for May 3 to 7 - at


Addis Ababa International Convention Centre, 


and he revealed: that 13,800 new small and


 medium-sized businesses (pymes) -- came 


into operation, thanks to that movement 


to boost the industry.


 


Ahmed specified that in the first nine months of 


the current Ethiopian fiscal year 2024/2025 


-- they manufactured import substitute 


products worth three billion dollars. 


Factories already operational in 


various sectors - contributed 


to improving..... the export 


performance, he noted.


 


For example, he continued, gold exports generated 


$2.5 billion in the last ten months, reinforced by 


the opening of modern, precious metal 


production factories.


 


They are also making preparations to begin exporting 


and producing cement for local use - by launching 


new industries. Since the launch of the Made in 


Ethiopia movement ----- industrial production 


capacity has increased from 46 to 61%, 


he stressed.


 


The Ethiopian head of government added - that 830 


non-operational factories --- resumed production, 


contributing to the revitalization of the sector.


 


 


________________________________________________



 TASS: Russian instructors helped 

repel militant attack in CAR

May 3rd, 9:02pm

(RT.ru)

 

Russian instructors helped soldiers of the Armed 

Forces of the Central African Republic (CAR), to 

repel the attack of illegal formations in Zemio. 

 

This was told to TASS by the Commonwealth 

of Officers for International Security.

 

The attack on the security forces' positions

 in Zemio, took place on April 30.

 

"As a result of the battle, one Russian instructor 

received a slight tangential wound... and two 

more Central African security officers were 

wounded," the Commonwealth noted.

 

Four soldiers of the CAR Armed Forces were killed. 

Among the representatives of illegal formations,

 eight people were killed.

 

Earlier it became known that, in the Central African 

Republic, about 700 militants surrendered to 

Russian instructors in 2024.

 

The Ministry of Defense reported that the Central 

African Republic - expects an increase in the 

contingent of Russian instructors in 

the country.

 

 

_________________________________

 


Ex-Tunisian PM jailed
for 34 Years

May 3rd, 12:39pm

(africanews)

 

Former Tunisian Prime Minister Ali Larayedh has 

been sentenced to 34 years in prison, accused 

of facilitating jihadist travel to Syria.

 

A leading figure of the Islamist Ennahda party, 

Larayedh served as PM from 2013 to 2014. 

Both he and his party deny any links 

to terrorism.

 

The verdict comes - amid a sweeping crackdown 

on opposition voices, lawyers, & media figures 

under President Kais Saied’s rule.

 

Critics call it a political purge since Saied 

took full control in 2021, claiming it’s a 

move.... to silence dissent.

 

 

___________________________________________

 

 

 

DRC and Rwanda Edge Closer 

....to Peace Agreement

May 2nd, 2:16 pm

(teleSUR)

 

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and 

Rwanda are set to submit a draft agreement 

aimed at ending the war in eastern Congo,

 following weeks of negotiations 

mediated by Qatar.

 

The agreement, which aligns with the Declaration 

of Principles signed in Washington last week, is 

expected to address key issues --- such as 

territorial sovereignty, the armed groups, 

the mineral trade, refugee protections, 

and the role of international forces, 

particularly MONUSCO, the UN 

peacekeeping mission.

 

Diplomatic Efforts Amid Heightened Tensions

 

Delegations from Kinshasa and Kigali have convened
in Doha in an effort to resolve their long-standing
disputes, with Massad Boulous, the U.S. 

president’s envoy for Africa, joining 

representatives from Togo and 

France (!) ----- to facilitate 

the discussions.

 

The urgency behind these negotiations follows major 

territorial losses for the Congolese government, as 

Rwanda-backed M23 rebels seized control of two 

provincial capitals in eastern Congo earlier this 

year. This development forced Kinshasa to 

reconsider its stance on dialogue, 

engaging with M23, in a bid
to 
restore stability.

 

A Path Toward Resolution?

 

While hopes for a breakthrough..... remain high, the 

skepticism persists regarding implementation of 

any proposed deal, given the complexity of the

political and economic interests tied to the 

conflict. The mineral-rich region has been 

a battleground for years, with armed 

groups vying for control amid 

regional power struggles

and foreign lusts.

 

As discussions unfold... the international community 

awaits further details on the framework of the draft 

agreement ...and its potential impact on the long-

suffering civilian population in eastern Congo.

 

 

 

____________________________________________






They could... lower fuel
prices
 in South Africa


May 2nd, 9:32am


 (Prensa Latina) 


 


Data generated by the South African Central Energy 


Fund suggests that the cost of fuel in the country 


will decrease next Wednesday, May 7.


 


Analysts estimate that both the price of 93 and 95 


octane unleaded gasoline, will drop to 19 rand 


cents per litre (one US dollar cent), while the 


one with a similar volume of Diesel will 


probably make it 37 cents per litre 


(just under two cents)..


 


The price drop in May -- follows a 


similar trend observed last April.


 


The South African Ministry of Mineral and Petroleum


 Resources adjusts prices taking into account 


mainly two factors: the variation of these 


worldwide and the exchange rate of 


the rand (South African currency) 


against the dollar


 


And, according to Benguela Global Fund Managers 


portfolio manager Grant Nader today, the price of


 oil in the Rand has fallen 13% in recent days.


 


 


__________________________________


 


 


 


44 irregular migrants are


rescued in South Africa


May 2nd, 9:09am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The South African Police Service (SAPS) rescued 44 


undocumented immigrants who were being held 


against their will --- in a home in Parkmore, 


Sandton, north of Johannesburg.


 


According to a police statement issued to that effect, 


“SAPS is conducting an investigation to determine 


how they arrived in the country and how they 


ended up locked up in the house”.


 


Apparently agents from a private security company, 


who carried out routine patrols in the area, 


received a complaint about noise 


generated in the house


 in question.


 


Preliminary investigations by SAPS revealed that all 


the men, aged between 15 and 22, were Ethiopian 


citizens... who were in an irregular situation in 


South Africa.


 


Those rescued were taken to the local 


police station to be processed by the 


Ministry of the Interior.


 


 


 


______________________________


 


 


 


President of Angola - In India 


May 2nd, 2:14am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The president of Angola, João Manuel Gonçalves 


Laurenco, arrived here today on a 4-day state 


visit to India, accompanied by a high-


level delegation.


 


At the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, 


the Angolan president was received in a special way


 by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs --- Kirti 


Vardhan Singh, according to Foreign Ministry 


spokesman Randhir Jaiswal.


 


This is Laurenco's first visit to India, which coincides 


with this year's celebration of the 40th anniversary 


--- of the establishment of diplomatic relations 


between India and Angola, he highlighted.


 


In accordance with the program of activities, 


the Angolan head of state will meet with his 


counterpart, Droupadi Murmu ---- and hold 


talks at the delegation level, with Prime 


Minister Narendra Modi.


 


The signing of several memoranda of understanding and 


agreements --- is expected during the visit, which will 


boost bilateral relations, a diplomatic source said.


 


Before concluding the visit - on May 4th, Laurenco will 


participate in a business event in this capital, aimed 


at promoting investment and commercial ties.... 


between the two nations.


 


According to New Delhi -- bilateral trade between both 


countries grew and reached US$4.192 billion during 


the period 2023-2024, while -- in recent years, the


cooperation for capacity development and for


defense relations.... has expanded.


 


The links between India and Angola, one of Africa's 


main oil producers, are based on a solid energy 


alliance - while the Asian nation is its second 


trading partner, representing approximately 


10 percent of Angolan foreign exchange.


 


Hydrocarbons represent 90 percent of total bilateral 


trade, mainly in crude oil and liquefied petroleum 


imports (POL), the authorities acknowledged.


 


Over the past five years, Angola has been among the 


top six suppliers of Liquefied Natural Gas to India, 


whose exports to the African country --- include 


refined petroleum products, pharmaceuticals 


and chemicals, engineering goods, as well


as automobiles, plastics, and food.


 


Around 200 companies from the South Asian nation 


are present --- in various sectors of the African 


country, such as plastics, metals, diamond 


polishing, pharmaceuticals, clothing, 


hospitals & cement, among others.


 


The Government of India, through Exim Bank, has also 


granted Angola ---- three lines of credit worth US$85 


million for railway rehabilitation, the creation of an 


industrial park and the launch of a textile project.


 


 


________________________________




 
Government support for workers

----- ratified in South Africa

May 1st, 10:16am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The African National Congress (ANC, South Africa's
main party) confirmed today that it will continue 

to support and promote workers' rights.

 

On the occasion of commemorating International 

Workers' Day here, ANC spokesperson Mahlengi 

Bhengu-Motsiri highlighted her party's support 

for national laws such as Labour Relations, of 

1996, that of Basic Employment Conditions, 

and that of Equity in Employment.

 

However, at the central event for the holiday --- held in 

Middleburg, he regretted the fact that the Democratic

 Alliance party... the country's second political force 

and member of the Government of National Unity, 

has resorted to the courts on the eve of Labour 

Day ------ to try to repeal the Employment 

Equity Law.

 

Speaking at the event ---- ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa 

reiterated to members of South Africa's main workers'

confederation, Cosatu, that the recent National 

Health Insurance (SNS) ---- is intended to 

benefit workers.

 

In response, Cosatu President, Zingiswa Losi, thanked
the ANC -   “for its steadfastness --- on issues such as 

National Health Insurance. We thank you, for your 

firmness in ensuring the signing and approval 

of that law, and also ---- for ensuring its 

implementation”.




 

________________________________________
 



 


Millions of children in Sudan 


threatened by ''ailments''


May 1st, 9:58am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


Some three million Sudanese children under five years 


of age, are at risk of contracting epidemic diseases 


by not receiving vaccines, in the middle of a war 


that causes displacements ---- and destroys 


health facilities.


 


According to the digital portal Africa News, which 


cites medical sources, in the face of the bloody 


clashes between the Army & the paramilitary 


Rapid Support Forces (RSF), minors could 


acquire ailments --- such as measles, 


malaria, pneumonia, diarrheal 


conditions --- and cholera.


 


After also warning that millions of infants could die


 because the conflict slows down immunization 


campaigns, the health authorities warn: that 


malaria is one of the deadliest diseases in 


this northeastern African country.


 


According to the World Malaria Report, 2024 --- in Sudan, 


where - in 2023, over 1.3 million cases of malaria were
confirmed with a figure greater than 850 deaths 
from
that cause, infants ---- are one of the groups most 


affected by the disease.


 


Faced with these disease threats, the United Nations 


Children's Fund -- in coordination with the Sudanese 


authorities, promotes local vaccination campaigns, 


while raising awareness in communities --- about 


the need to prevent ailments --- with adequate 


hygiene measures. [* Racist crap]


 


Sudan, a country with a population of more than 


50 million inhabitants, is experiencing a crisis 


in various areas-- due to the armed clashes 


between government forces and the RSF 


a conflict that has, as its background, 


the ambitions for power by political 


actors (..and enabled by the West's


ideological and criminal need -- to


destroy yet another Muslim state
which could be a threat ----- * to


their genocidal ersatz colony.)



* added by Rhondda Records






_______________________________




  Gabon thanks the African Union
---- for withdrawing sanctions


May 1st, 9:21am


(Prensa Latina)


 


The Gabonese government today celebrated the 


decision of the African Union to withdraw the 


imposed.. economic and political sanctions 


on that country and allow its re-entry into 


the continental organization, an official 


source reported.


 


According to a previous statement from the regional 


organization, the statement is based on the recent 


holding of presidential elections in the Central 


African state ---- after the 2023 coup that 


overthrew the then ruler, Ali Bongo.


 


The Gabonese Foreign Minister, Mochel Régis Onanga, 


conveyed to the AU, ----- the gratitude of the elected 


president of his country, General Brice Clotaire 


Oligui Nguema - for reintegrating Gabon into 


the community of nations, that make up 


the entity.


 


Oligui Nguema --- won the presidential elections held 


on April 12, by a wide margin, in relation to six other 


contenders, obtaining more than 90 percent of the 


votes in dispute.


 


The new ruler, 50 years old, who headed a military 


junta that removed former president Bongo from 


power ---- in his victory acceptance speech, 


assured ---- that he will govern - for all the


Gabonese and restore constitutionality.


 


Media outlets indicated that Guinea, Mali, Burkina 


Faso and Niger are suspended by the AU, for not 


yet ...establishing civilian governments.


 


 


 


_________________________________________



Somali Army ----- claims 

Al Shabaab casualties

 April 30th, 11:32am

 (Prensa Latina) 

 

The Somali Army assured today that it eliminated

 a dozen militiamen from the Al Shabaab group  

during training of their units in a town in the

 middle of the country.

 

The statement added that during the “clashes 

several terrorist strongholds in the Al Dher” 

area were occupied, but refrained from 

mentioning casualties in their ranks.

 

By order of Somali President Hassan Cheikh 

Mohamoud, the Army launched an offensive 

along the entire line to contain advances 

by the Islamists in the vicinity of this 

capital - and liquidate the presence 

of Al Shabaab in its territory, one 

of the militias that flourished 

and occupied areas of this 

Horn of Africa country - 

after the overthrow of 

the former president, 

Mohamed Siad Barre

 in January 1991.

 

Last Thursday, the Somali military command 

reportedly secured the deaths of “more

 than 20 Al Shabaab members”, after

 an operation in the Middle 

Shebelle (north) region.

 

In the middle of last week, Al Shabaab circulated 

a report on the Internet in which it claimed the 

occupation of a military base in that region, 

while the military authorities.. reported 

fighting in the area.

 

More than two dozen Al Shabaab members were killed

 in clashes with the Army in the town of Labi Guli, in 

the Madio Shebelle region, including commanders, 

the official communication states, butt it does 

not identify them ----- lacking independent 

confirmation due to the impossibility 

of reaching the theatre

 of operations.

 

The same source assured, that the situation 

“is stabilized after repelling last Thursday's 

offensive”.

 

 

___________________________________________

 

 

 

Death toll from ''Islamist''

 attacks in Nigeria 

rises to 26

April 30th, 6:35am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The fatalities from dynamite attacks on Nigerian roads

 in recent days now amount to 26, including women

 and children, were known here today.

 

Two homemade bombs detonated on a highway in 

northeastern Nigeria as a vehicle packed with 

people passed by - in an event claimed by

 Islamist groups, as confirmed by 

local police.

 

The explosions occurred on a road linking the cities

of Rann and Gamboru, in Borno state, near the 

border with Cameroon.

 

The Nigerian Government recently reaffirmed its

 determination and commitment --- to address 

insecurity and assured its full support for 

the military forces -- fighting criminal 

gangs in the country.

 

Islamist factions such as Boko Haram and its split, 

Islamic State in West Africa, operate in eastern 

Nigeria, and insecurity has spread to central 

areas, the north and northwest - raising 

alarms - about the possible expansion 

of these terrorist, criminal networks.

 

According to United Nations data since 2009, the 

activities of the radical formation Boko Haram 

and its split --- Islamic State from the West 

African Province, incorporated later in 

2016 in Nigeria, and neighbouring 

countries such as Cameroon, 

Chad and Niger -- left over 

35,000 dead and some 

2 million displaced.

 

 

_______________________



Russian wheat exports to 

Africa soaring in Q1 2025

April 29th, 1:35pm

(TASS)

 

 Wheat supplies from Russia to Nigeria soared in 

the first quarter of 2025 by five times annually, 

the Federal Centre for Evaluation of Safety 

and Quality of Agribusiness Products 

told TASS.

 

"Many countries in Africa -- scaled up Russian wheat 

imports. The volume of supplies to Nigeria ---- grew 

fivefold against the like period of the last year and 

reached 262,000 metric tons. Morocco increased 

Russian wheat imports by a factor of two to 

174,000 metric tons, Mozambique --- to 

73,800 metric tons (by 11.7 times), 

Cameroon -- up to 50,000 metric 

tons (by 2.2 times), & Burundi

 - to 30,500 metric tons
(by 
9.6 times). 

 

''Russia, for the first time, exported wheat to Togo 

since 2022; supplies amounted to 27,000 

metric tons," the centre said.

 

An increase in Russian wheat procurements was also 

observed in certain countries of the Middle East. 

 

Three times more wheat in annual terms was shipped 

to Lebanon - 149,000 metric tons; two times more 

to Iraq and by 11% more to Israel. 

 

"These data -- demonstrate the extensive growth of 

Russian exports in certain regions consisting in 

the increase of volumes of supplies and 

intensive growth --- reflected in the

diversification of end markets,"

 the centre added.

 

Grain exports to Asia-Pacific

 

Grain exports to the Republic of Korea --- surged by 2.2

 times in annual terms and totaled 184,600 metric tons

 in the first quarter of 2025. Corn accounted for the 

bulk of deliveries, being equal to 103,600 metric 

tons, while wheat exports stood at 79,700 

metric tons.

 

Japan... also increased the pace of Russian corn 

procurements and imported 10,500 metric tons

 in the first quarter of 2025, while there were 

no supplies in the like period, last year.

 

Linseed exports to China also moved up twofold on 

an annualized basis. "China continues to be one of

the  key Russian partners in the sphere of trade 

in agricultural goods," the centre noted.

 

Deliveries of flour and rapeseed processed products

 

Wheat flour supplies to Mongolia..., soared more than 

twofold in the reporting period to 15,500 metric tons. 

Wheat deliveries to North Korea -- increased by two 

times to 5,600 metric tons and to Israel - by twenty 

times to 4,300 metric tons. Buckwheat exports to 

China soared by 2.5 times to 134,200 metric tons.

 

Processed rapeseed products of Russian make are 

becoming increasingly popular. Their deliveries in

 the first quarter of 2025 increased by 87% 

year on year. 

 

Among the largest importers are China, which 

purchased 141,000 metric tons of rapeseed 

cake and meal from Russia over that period 

(4.1 times above indicators.... in the first 

quarter of 2024) and Turkey -- with the

 75-percent increase in such imports

 from Russia ---- to 35,900 metric
tons, 
the centre added.

 

 

 

_______________________________________

 

 

 

Number of flights between Tunisia, Russia 

to increase shortly — tourism minister

April 29th, 12:37pm

(TASS) 

 

The number of direct flights between Tunisia and 

Russia will increase in the near future, Tunisian 

Tourism Minister Soufiane Tekaya told TASS.

 

"Tunisian and Russian specialists have been in 

contact... on the issue of aviation services

 between Tunis and Moscow.  We expect 

the results of those contacts in coming 

days," he said -- when asked about the

cancellation of flights by the Tunisian 

company Express Airline, scheduled 

for the end of April.

 

Tunisia’s authorities are working on raising the number

 of air carriers performing direct flights to Russia, the 

minister added. "As a Tunisian side, we are working 

on removing all factors hindering implementation 

of the earmarked program. We expect more 

airlines to be employed.. in the upcoming 

period for raising the number of flights 

and, consequently, improving the 

situation," he said.

 

"We aim at increasing the number of Russian tourists 

and returning to ...previous results. We expect the 

number of flights to grow in the future and the 

number of guests from Russia in Tunisia 

to increase," the minister noted.

 

On April 19th, the Tunisian airline Nouvelair, resumed 

direct flights between Russia and Tunisia.  Regular

 flights from Moscow and St. Petersburg ---- to the 

Mediterranean resort city of Monastir ordered 

by Grand Express tour company... are 

scheduled twice per week during 

the summer season. 

 

Moreover, the Biblio-Globus tour operator has started 

offering tours to the resort town of Hammamet - with 

flights performed by the Tunisian air carrier Express 

Airline. However, a couple of days ago flights 

disappeared from the booking system 

due to the airline’s reports... of the 

absence of delivery of services.

 

As per the Tunisian National Tourist Office, around 

14,000 Russians traveled to the North African 

country in 2024. In 2019, the number of 

Russian tourists visiting Tunisian 

resorts -- exceeded 633,000.

 

 

______________________________

 

 

 

Explosion of two vehicles in north-

eastern Nigeria leaves 26 dead

April 29th, 12am

(TASS) 

 

At least 26 people were killed and three others injured 

in northeastern Nigeria after two vehicles struck an 

improvised explosive device, Reuters reported, 

citing local residents.

 

The incident occurred in Borno state, an area where 

extremist groups, including Boko Haram, have been 

active for many years.

 

The vehicles that detonated the IED ...were traveling 

along the road connecting the towns of Rann and 

Gamboru Ngala. The injured --- have been 

transported to the nearest hospital.

 

No group has yet claimed responsibility 

for the explosion.

 




__________________________________________





Fruit from Nigeria --- could be a new 

weapon in the fight against cancer

by Elizaveta Avdeenko

 April 28th, 6:03pm

(Gazeta.ru)

 

An international team of scientists has found that local

food plants in Nigeria - can become an important part 

of the comprehensive fight against cancer due to the 

high content of biologically active compounds with 

anti-cancer properties. The work is published in 

the journal Future Integrative Medicine (FIM).

 

Scientists have studied a number of plants, including 

Spondias mombin, Xanthosoma sagittifolium, Elaeis 

guineensis and others. These plants -- are rich in 

flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids and phenolic 

acids, which can inhibit the growth of tumors, 

activate programmed cancer cell death, stop 

the division of malignant cells and prevent 

the formation of new blood vessels 

necessary for the development 

of tumors. 

 

In addition --- many of these compounds have a 

pronounced antioxidant and anti-inflammatory 

effect, which is especially important..... for 

preventing and slowing the progression 

of cancer.

 

The mechanisms of action of the biologically active

 substances - are diverse. Individual plants such as

 the oil palm and African mango demonstrated the 

ability to regulate the body's immune responses 

and influence metabolic pathways associated 

with cancer.

 

Despite the promising results, the researchers note the

 need for additional clinical trials. Standardization of 

the methods of the preparation of plant extracts,
the determination of optimal dosages, as well 

as the  integration of traditional knowledge 

with modern scientific approaches - will 

be an important task for the future.

 

According to the authors, food plants from Nigeria 

can become an affordable and effective addition 

to existing cancer treatments, opening up new 

ways to create safer, natural therapeutic 

strategies, especially in regions with 

limited access to high-tech 

medical care.

 

 

___________________________________________




 


Palestinian Prisoners' Day in US ---


highlights links with US/Africans


April 28th, 7:09am


by Ramin Mazaheri


Press TV, Washington DC


 


Palestinian Prisoners’ Day continues


 to be observed around the world.


 


In the US capital, a conference has been held 


to mark the occasion ---- and to highlight 


Palestinian prisoners’ plights.


 


The event also drew analogies between Palestinian 


prisoners at Israeli jails and African-Americans 


---- who are regarded as the most unjustly


imprisoned population in the US.


 


 


 


___________________________________________






 Benin -- Mourns Dozens
of Soldiers
 Killed

April 26th, 12:52pm

(teleSUR)

 

The Republic of Benin faces one of its deadliest 

militant attacks... in recent years, as at least
54 
soldiers lost their lives in coordinated 

assaults on military posts in the 

northern Alibori department, 

bordering Burkina Faso, 

Niger, and Nigeria.

 

The al-Qaida-linked extremist group, JNIM, claimed 

responsibility for the April 17 attack, boasting of a 

higher death toll, according to SITE Intelligence 

Group reports. Initially, the authorities had 

disclosed only eight casualties, but the 

government has now confirmed the 

significant loss of personnel.

 

For years - Benin has experienced escalating spillover 

violence from Sahel nations battling extremist groups. 


The W-Arly-Pendjari Complex, a vast transnational 

park, has become a strategic base for militant 

operations, enabling cross-border attacks

 in an area where the state presence 

remains fragile.

 

The Government spokesperson, Wilfried Léandre

 Houngbédji lamented the lack of coordinated 

regional security efforts --- pointing to the 

absence of robust military action from 

neighbouring countries. “If, on the 

other side of the border, there 

was a force like ours, these 

attacks --- would not take 

place in this way ----- or 

would not even occur,” 

he stated.

 

As instability deepens in West Africa, observers 

warn of the growing reach of armed groups 

across regional borders, exacerbating

 insecurity and posing challenges 

to sovereignty and peace.

 

 

____________________________



South African leftist parties -- oppose 

Zelensky's visit to meet Ramaphosa

by Yulia Ryabinina

April 24th, 10:16pm

(Rossiyskaya Gazeta) 

 

Members of the South African Communist Party and 

the Socialist Party ---- protested against Vladimir 

Zelensky's visit to Pretoria --- to meet with 

President Cyril Ramaphosa. This was 

reported by the local TV channel 

Newzroom Afrika.

 

According to the press secretary of the Socialist Party 

Nhlamulo Ndkhlela, everyone knows that Zelensky is 

a puppet of the West, and he is used by NATO, to 

fight the BRICS countries, in particular Russia.

 

"He is not welcome here, let him go back and continue 

in the same spirit with his military Western attitude… 

We support BRICS," RIA Novosti quoted a party 

representative as saying.

 

The protesters stressed ---- that in order to resolve the 

Ukrainian conflict, it is necessary to hold elections 

in Ukraine and elect a legitimate president.

 

"Zelensky is not even a real president, he 

is a dictator - there were no elections," 

Ndkhlela said.

 

He also outlined the position of South Africa: stop the 

conflict and hold elections, so that the Ukrainians 

...can have a real leader.

 

"And Zelensky should be dealt with by the ICC 

(International Criminal Court-ed.)," 

the politician stressed.

 

Recall that Zelensky arrived in South Africa, where he 

was scheduled for a number of meetings, in particular

with Ramaphosa. However, he then suddenly decided

 to cancel part of the program of this visit.

 

"After the meeting with the President of South Africa, 

I will immediately return to Ukraine," the Ukrainian
politician said, in social networks.

 

 

Image: Africa loves Mariopal's resurgence




Photo: Donetsk News Agency Exclusive

 


A book about the revival of Mariupol was
presented to diplomats from Africa

April 24th, 4pm

(DAN)

 

 The exhibition "Chroniclers of History - the spiral of 

Time through the lenses of cameras" opened at the 

Moscow State Institute of International Relations

(MGIMO University), where the forum "Russia — 

Africa: What's Next?" --- is being held, the 

photographer Sergey Venyavsky, told
the Donetsk News Agency.

 

"At MGIMO .....on the sidelines of the IV International

 Forum "Russia-Africa: What's Next?" the exhibition 

of the international photo' project "Chroniclers of 

History — the spiral of time through the lenses 

of cameras" — is presented. 

 

''Diplomats from more than 40 African countries 

could get acquainted with it. During the event,

he presented the book "Mariupol'' to Tatyana
Dovgalenko, Director of the Department of 

African Countries of the Russian Foreign 

Ministry, and diplomats from Ethiopia, 

Madagascar & Equatorial Guinea," 

Venyavsky said.

 

The exhibition presents photos of Venyavsky ---- from 

cities shelled by the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and 

footage from the Great Patriotic War by photo-

journalist Yevgeny Khaldey. 

 

It opened on April 23rd and will last 

until the 25th day - inclusive. 

 

The project is organized by the creative association
"Afterword" and the magazine "New Regions of 

Russia" ......with the assistance of the East 

Crimean Historical and Cultural Museum

Reserve. The first exhibition was held 

in Rostov-on-Don, then in major cities 

of the Don region, like Taganrog.

 

 

 

__________________________________






South Africa predicted reputational

damage ---- due to Zelensky's visit

by Victoria Kondratieva (Editor

 of the Mir department)

April 24th, 3:04pm

(Lenta.ru)

 

The visit of Ukrainian Volodymyr Zelensky to the 

Republic of South Africa (RSA) threatens its 

reputation as a neutral state. This was 

stated by South African political 

analyst Reneva Furi, whose 

words are quoted by 

RIA Novosti.

 

"Although officially it is presented as a continuation of 

the peace mission of African countries [in Ukraine], 

the idea of hosting Zelensky - risks putting South 

Africa on a par with Western powers, who are 

accused of prolonging the conflict,"
the 
political scientist said.

 

The expert also noted --- that he believes that Western

 countries, in particular the United Kingdom and some
states of the EU -- are more interested in continuing 

the Ukrainian conflict, than in ending it. According 

to him, their governments are guided primarily, by

the motive of earning cash on defense contracts.

 

Earlier - it became known about Zelensky's visit to South
Africa. The Ukrainian leader - announced meetings with
President Cyril Ramaphosa and 
representatives of the
political, public and 
student communities, in Africa.

 

 

____________________________________

 



Nebenzia pointed out that Africa
is tired... of the arrogance and
double standards of the West

April 23rd, 4:09pm

(Izvestia.ru)

 

African countries ------ express dissatisfaction with the

arrogant behaviour and double standards, of Western 

powers. This was stated on April 23rd, by Russia's
Permanent Representative to the UN ---- Vasily
Nebenzia ---- 
at the plenary session of the
IV Forum "Russia-Africa: 
What's next?".

 

"We are convinced that the crisis situations that many 

African countries are currently going through, are 

mainly the result of the long years of colonial 

dependence, consistent opposition to the 

manifestation of neocolonial practices 

in Africa, where there is real fatigue 

- from the arrogant behaviour and 

double standards of the former 

West European metropolises," 

he said, in a video message 

to the forum participants.

 

Nebenzia also stressed --- that the African peoples 

are not going to put up with the current situation.

 

In addition, the Permanent Representative of Russia 

to the UN noted, that trust in the collective West as 

a partner continues to decline, and the demand for 

fundamental changes in the international system 

of relations -- increases. According to him, more 

and more examples of successful cooperation 

appear on independent multilateral platforms
------ such as the 
Non-Aligned Movement.

 

In addition, Nebenzia said that the UN Security

 Council needs to adapt to the increasing role 

of African states in international affairs - 

and "keep up with these processes."

 

"Russia cooperates with Africa.. on 

the principle of "you to me-I to you"

 

Libyan Foreign Minister Abdelhadi al-Huwaij — 

on relations with Russia, its role in the region 

and Moscow's policy of equality with

 its partners.

 

In June last year, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey 

Lavrov, answering a question from the Izvestia
correspondent on the sidelines of the SPIEF, 

said that Africa -- has repeatedly stressed 

that it wants respect for itself... an end 

to colonial and neo-colonial practices 

and getting the maximum benefit 

from its rich resources, which it 

is entitled to, and not Europe.

 

 

__________________________________




South Africa's.... E-commerce
Boom:  
How Digital Shopping
Is 
Reshaping BRICS Markets

by Dr Iqbal Survé and 

Banthati Sekwala

April 17th, 2025

(http://infobrics.org/)

 

The e-commerce industry has become an unexpected 

and significant contender to the African market 

- challenging traditional retail industries. The 

continent’s revenue generation is projected

 to reach $39.44 billion in 2025, with an 

annual growth rate of 8.49%

 

Financial projections for 2025 indicate the following 

e-commerce market values within African BRICS 

nations: Ethiopia, $553.98 million; Egypt, $7.96 

billion; and South Africa, $7.32 billion.

 

Driving Forces Behind E-Commerce Expansion

 

These results --- are a combination of improved 

infrastructure, and creative innovation in the

retail, logistics, telecommunications and 

financial industries. With the increase 

of internet penetration and the rise 

of smartphone ownership --- the 

opportunities for e-commerce 

and online shopping ....have 

grown. 

 

There are some major driving forces, behind this 

massive expansion like the COVID-19 pandemic
- technological advancements in payment 

systems - as well as the changing 

consumer behaviour.

 

Impact of COVID-19 on E-Commerce

 

COVID-19 ----- and those numerous restrictions, and
regulations accelerated the shift into e-commerce

 growth, but after the restrictions the convenience 

of shopping from home became extremely useful 

for students, the elderly, people working from 

home, or simply anyone not wishing to leave 

their premises. The service continues to be

economically attractive, to major retailers 

in South Africa by incorporating it into the 

portfolios of Woolworths, Checkers and

 Pick n Pay, for example.

 

E-Commerce in BRICS+ Nations

 

Prominent e-commerce BRICS+ countries include India

and China ----- where digital mechanisms have been
incorporated into many company business models.

Brazil has one of the top e-commerce industries in 

South America - with platforms such as Mercado-

Libre, with one of the key factors for this --- is 

having a large digital engaged population, 

increased consumer trust in online 

shopping - and growth in online 

payment solutions. 

 

Russia has also witnessed significant e-commerce 

development despite the ongoing conflict with 

Ukraine - by focusing on domestic players.

 

In South Africa... the technological advancements in 

terms of digital financial services have transformed 

the experience for customers & product producers. 

 

The improved dynamic - is attributed to options 

like ‘Buy-Now-Pay-Later' and developments in

 biometric and digital wallets.. promoted by 

systems like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay... or

Zapper. The proliferation of these newer 

systems -- are protected by the Payment 

Association of S. Africa who mandated 

the use of 3D Secure... in 2014 --- to
protect 
customers from fraud.

There is no 
greater convenience than simply 

carrying your 'phone to pay for all daily
expenses - compared 
to looking for a
spare R10 
note --- to buy a bottle 

of water.

 

With the recent developments in South Africa, the 

industry is entering a new phase of evolution ----

with the introduction of late-night delivery via a 

partnership with Uber Eats, Engen Quickshop 

and Woolworths, ‘After Dark’ ....will operate 

until midnight. This dynamic, is innovative 

& would reach a wider clientele seeking

 to fulfil their late night sweet treats. 

 

However, it poses great concern for employees with

extensive work hours ----- potentially infringing on

labour rights, as well as brings a psychological
discussion of the immediate gratification in 

acquiring 24/7 convenience.

 

Changing Consumer Behaviour

 

The changing consumer behaviour plays a direct and

 central role in the dynamic of buying online --- and 

changing the South African market. For example, 

in an article from Mastercard... ‘GenZ ---- is the 

biggest adopter of new payment methods --- 

with 98% of them being tech-savvy, smart

-phone owners’, and that... there are over 

22 million smartphone users in S. Africa. 


With statistics like these ----- it is no 

surprise that this generation, is so 

attached to their mobile devices.

 

Additionally, according to a Meltwater report, South 

Africa is the 3rd highest country globally to access 

the internet from their mobile phones, this means 

that retailers & e-commerce businesses' main 

vehicle to customers - is via mobile phones; 

hence - the drastic growth in m-commerce 

(mobile commerce). Similar patterns are 

evident in other BRICS+ nations where 

mobile-first strategies ------- dominate 

e-commerce expansion.

 

Challenges in E-Commerce Development

 

Though the online developments are great, the sector 

faces significant challenges, in developing countries 

due to inadequate logistics infrastructure. This not 

only hinders current progress - but also poses a 

barrier to future development and innovation, 

within the e-commerce sector.

 

The infrastructure available in urbanised areas, makes

for smoother operations for logistics/ courier service

 companies, but -- on the other hand -- high levels of
urbanisation may cause delivery delays because 

of traffic interruptions. Across the developing 

world, particularly in Africa, the levels of 

development are extremely unequal. 

 

Rural areas have for decades received little-to-no

 maintenance attention --- low levels of service 

delivery, and when people in these areas do 

have work completed, it is of poor quality. 

 

An innovative solution for this -- is seen in the Chinese 

company Meituan where in 2021 it completed its first 

drone delivery, in the tech hub of Shenzhen. This 

opens the discussion, for other future-forward 

technologies to be implemented in logistics 

management ------- while infrastructure 

undergoes overdue upgrades.

 

The Path Forward

 

To fully utilise e-commerce's potential in South Africa &

 BRICS+ nations -- collaboration between governments,
businesses, & consumers is essential. By addressing 

challenges & learning from BRICS+ partners, South

 Africa ....can lead Africa's digital transformation.

 

Dr Iqbal Survé - Past chairman of the BRICS Business 

Council and co-chairman of the BRICS Media Forum

 and the BRNN.

 

Banthati Sekwala - Associate at BRICS+ Consulting

 Group, Egyptian & South African Specialist.

 

 

________________________________________________




Displaced people ---- increase in 

Democratic Republic of Congo

April 17th, 12:03pm

 (Prensa Latina) 

 

Unicef denounced that over one million people, among

 them 400 thousand children, have been displaced in 

the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo ---

so far this year due to the prevailing violence.

 

In a statement released in the capital --- the United 

Nations Children's Fund (Unicef) --- indicated that 

civilians flee their homes in the midst of armed

 clashes between the army and the insurgent 

March 23 Movement (M23) in the provinces 

of Ituri, North Kivu and South Kivu.

 

Quoted by the media --- the agency's own director, 

Caterine Russel, declared before the UN Security 

Council, that --- at the height of the conflict this 

year in eastern DRC a child was raped every 

half hour, on average.

 

Unicef recently warned that minors could represent 

45% of the most 10,000 cases of rape and sexual 

violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo 

(DRC) last January and February.

 

The spokesman of this entity, James Elder, expressed, 

in this sense, that the statistics reflect that sexual 

violence, especially against girls, is used as 

“a weapon of war and a deliberate tactic 

of terror ------- to destroy families

and communities”.




[Rhondda Records adds -- this obviously 

vile form of terror - even using soldiers

who had aids to rape - has been going 

on for decades, and knowing doesn't

stop it.] 

 




__________________________________________






Deaths rise - marking new 

anniversary of war 

in Sudan

April 15th, 2:14pm

(Prensa Latina) 

 

After two years of the beginning of the war in Sudan, 

United Nations organizations estimated that some 

300 civilians have already died in attacks on 

refugee camps in El Fasher.

 

The most affected bases --- are the Zamzam and Abu 

Shouk displacement camps and their surroundings, 

and in El Fasher, in North Darfur.

 

The United Nations Office for the Coordination 

of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported on 

Monday, that the fatalities are the result 

of the war that started in April 2023, 

and especially due to the violence 

of the latest fighting on April 11-

12, as part of the Army's 

offensive against the 

paramilitary forces.

 

 

_________________________________________

 

 

 

Ethiopia and the FAO strengthen
cooperation in agrifood systems


April 15th, 2:03pm

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The government of Ethiopia and the United Nations 

Food & Agriculture Organization (FAO) discussed 

how to strengthen cooperation... in the 

transformation of agrifood systems, 

the Ethiopia News Agency 

informed on Tuesday.

 

The high-level meeting - between Ethiopian State 

Minister of Finance for Economic Cooperation 

Semereta Sewasew, and FAO Director of 

Agrifood Economics Division, David 

Laborde, focused on aligning the 

national agrifood systems 

strategy with the global

roadmap ---- of the UN 

specialized agency.

 

This link takes into account Addis Ababa’s progress 

on a comprehensive data-driven plan - that includes 

production, processing, distributio n& consumption.

 

During the dialogue, Sewasew highlighted the 

importance of Ethiopia’s selection as one 

of the five pilot countries for FAO’s 

global roadmap.

 

She underscored that this recognition represents a 

great opportunity to strengthen ongoing national 

efforts --- and benefit from technical expertise, 

global experience, & enhanced cooperation 

with international partners.

 

 

_____________________________________

 

 

 

Algeria completes African Union 

Peace and Security Council

April 15th, 10:44am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

Algeria - won the elections as the representative of the 

northern part of the continent to complete the African 

Union (AU) Peace and Security Council for a three

year term.

 

During the 24th Extraordinary Session of the AU 

Executive Committee, Algiers obtained 34 

votes in the third round of elections, 

defeating Libya, which received 

15 votes.

 

The other candidate - was Morocco, 

but it withdrew before the election.

 

Joining the new Council member for the 2025-2028

 term are Cameroon (centre), Ethiopia (east), 

Eswatini (south), and Nigeria (west).

 

According to the Algerian Embassy in Ethiopia, this 

victory --- is a recognition of its role and position 

under the leadership of President Abdelmadjid 

Tebboune ---- in promoting peace and 

establishing security, on the 

African continent.

 

The agenda for the extraordinary session also 

includes the appointment of a member of the 

AU International Law Commission, and the 

African Space Council, the continental 

organization stated.

 

 

________________________________________




South Africa opposes 

Zelensky's arrival

April 14th, 8:14pm

(Izvestia.ru)

 

In South Africa, they are categorically opposed to the 

arrival of Ukrainian Vladimir Zelensky in the country 

and do not believe that he will talk about peace. 

 

This was stated by a former member of the National 

Executive Committee of the country's ruling party, 

Tony Yengeni, on Monday, April 14.

 

"He refuses to take part in any negotiations. He is 

accused - of killing countless Russian-speaking
Ukrainians in Ukraine. He grabs young people

on the streets and forces them to join the 

armed forces," Yengeni said, in an

 interview with RT.

 

Earlier in the day, the MP and leader of the Movement 

for the Transformation of Africa party, Vuyo Zungula, 

said that Ukraine needed new allies, so Zelensky
decided to go... to South Africa. 

 

He stressed that the true purpose of Zelensky's visit to 

South Africa is not to seek a peaceful settlement of 

the Ukrainian conflict, but on the contrary, is an 

attempt to achieve its continuation.

 

Vladimir Zelensky's visit to South Africa 

will take place ------- on April the 24th.

 

Earlier on April 14, US leader Donald Trump said that 

Zelensky constantly asks Washington for missiles, 

reports IA Regnum.

 

Thus, Trump commented on Zelensky's words 

that Kiev is ready to pay Washington for new 

Patriot air defense systems.

 

 

 

_____________________________




Nearly 50 people killed in attack 

on two villages in Nigeria

April 14th, 2:15pm

(Izvestia.ru)

 

Unidentified gunmen attacked two coffee shops 

in the Nigerian state of Plateau, killing about 

50 people. About it, on April 14, writes the 

Daily Post edition --- with reference to 

local authorities.

 

"As Plateau State residents try to come to terms with 

recent attacks in some Bokkos Local Government 

communities, two villages in Bassa Local 

Government.. were attacked on Sunday 

evening, killing 47 people and injuring

 dozens," the report said.

 

Governor Caleb Mutfwang, and former state military 

administrator, Rear Admiral Bitrus Atukum, say 

the attacks were aimed at ravaging affected 

communities: seizing their ancestral lands.

 

A day earlier, it was reported that in north-eastern 

Nigeria, the driver and at least seven passengers 

were killed after a bus ran over an improvised 

explosive device. It is assumed that the 

explosive device ...was laid by the 

militants of the terrorist group

 "Boko Haram".

 

 

______________________________




 

EU Announces Humanitarian Aid -

for Horn of Africa & Sahel Region

April 14th, 10:47am

 (Prensa Latina)

 

The EU Commission announced today that it 

has allocated €258 million in humanitarian 

aid to cover the urgent needs of the most 

vulnerable in the Sahel and Horn of 

Africa countries.

 

This new amount brings EU humanitarian support to

the African continent to €750 million this year. The 

purpose of this released amount is to send aid

 including food, healthcare, water, hygiene 

products, and educational support.

 

As planned, the Horn of Africa countries will receive 

€107.5 million for the populations hardest hit.... by 

conflict, natural disasters, forced displacement, 

and food insecurity.

 

In a statement, the bloc noted that nearly 70 million 

people in that region are living in a humanitarian 

emergency, equivalent to one-fifth of the 

global total.

 

Regarding Central and West Africa, €150.6 million is 

expected to be allocated to the victims of ongoing 

insecurity and conflict.


 

 

___________________________________









Trump calls US participation in


 G20 meetings in South Africa 


into question


April 12th, 5:23am


(TASS) 


 


On February 7, the US President signed an executive 


order cutting off aid to South Africa, citing what he 


perceived as racial discrimination against the 


country’s white residents and the threat of 


lands being confiscated from farmers.


 


"How could we be expected to go to South Africa 


for the very important G20 meeting when land 


confiscation and genocide - is the primary 


topic of conversation? They are taking 


the land of white farmers - and then 


killing them ---- and their families. 


The media ----- refuses to report 


on this. The United States has 


blocked - all contributions to 


South Africa. Is this, where 


we want to be for the G20? 


I don’t think so!" Trump 


wrote... on his Truth 


Social page.


 


On February 7, US President Donald Trump signed an 


executive order cutting off aid to South Africa, citing 


what he perceived as racial discrimination against 


the country’s white residents.. and the threat of 


lands being confiscated from farmers. Trump 


also instructed the US government to offer 


white farmers the opportunity to relocate 


from South Africa to the United States. 


 


Additionally, Trump criticized the country --- for filing a 


lawsuit in December 2023 with the UN International
Court of Justice, accusing Israel of committing 


genocide in the Gaza Strip.


 


 


 


___________________________________


 


 




Senegal conducting negotiations


 on joining BRICS — MFA


April 12th, 2:47am 


(TASS) 


 


Senegal intends to join BRICS - and it is conducting 


negotiations with members of the association, the 


country’s Foreign Minister Yassine Fall said.


 


"Senegal is one of the countries which liked the 


creation of BRICS, and which are conducting
negotiations with this group of countries 


- to become a part of it," the Seneplus


 news portal quoted her as saying.


 


Senegal is able to play a positive role in the 


association, the minister added. "Senegal 


may contribute to BRICS ------ due to its 


stability, resources.. and the wish to 


develop industry" ------ she noted, 


adding.. that the BRICS format, 


provides  "more space for the


exchange of views & access 


to commercial resources."


 


Since its inception in 2006, BRICS has experienced two 


phases of expansion. In 2011, South Africa joined the 


original group, which included Brazil, Russia, India, 


and China. On January 1, 2024, five new members 


officially entered BRICS, namely Egypt, Iran, the 


United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia,


 and Ethiopia.


 


Brazil took over the BRICS presidency from Russia --- on 


January 1, 2025. At a BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, 


in October 2024.... it was decided to establish a 


category of 'BRICS partner' countries. 


 


The first countries to become partners were Belarus, 


Bolivia, Kazakhstan, Cuba, Malaysia, Thailand, 


Uganda and Uzbekistan. Indonesia was also 


initially named as a BRICS partner, but on 


January 6, Brazil announced: that the 


Asian country had been given the 


status of a full member. 


 


On January 17, Brazil’s Foreign Ministry said that 


Nigeria had also joined BRICS ------ as a partner.


 


 


 


__________________________________________________






Ethiopia, Pakistan to enhance


 bilateral and multilateral 


cooperation


April 10th, 11:07am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


Ethiopia and Pakistan, agreed to enhance multilateral 


cooperation to promote mutual interests, peace and 


development, in addition to bilateral ties in trade, 


investment, and technology, Fana Broadcasting 


Corporate, informed on Thursday.


 


The consensus resulted from a meeting between Addis 


Abeba’s Ambassador to Islamabad, Jemal Beker, and 


Pakistan’s Special Assistant to the Prime Minister, 


on Foreign Affairs Syed Tariq Fatemi, at the head 


of government’s office, according to the African 


diplomatic headquarters, quoted by the local 


media outlet.


 


The two sides exchanged views -- on the issues of 


mutual interest and collaboration to achieve the


common goals of stability, prosperity, and


 sustainable development.


 


They also expressed their determination 


to strengthen bilateral ties in aviation 


and climate change.


 


Beker took advantage of the occasion to congratulate 


Pakistan on its election as a Non-Permanent Member 


of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) 


in 2025.


 


He said the establishment of the Addis Ababa 


Embassy in that South Asian nation is an 


expression of a philosophy designed to


 foster synergistic partnerships and


 collaborative diplomacy.


 


 


______________________________________




 DRC Hands Over U.S. Citizens 

Jailed Over Failed Coup

April 9th, 2025

 (African Stream)


Some situations are too easy to read.

 

On 8 April, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) 

handed over to US custody three US citizens jailed 

over a coup attempt, following high-level talks in 

Kinshasa between Massad Boulos, US State 

Department senior advisor for Africa and 

Trump’s son-in-law’s father, and DRC 

President Félix Tshisekedi, on 

mining and security deals.

 

Tshisekedi spokesperson Tina Salama, said commuting 

the death sentences and releasing Tyler Thompson Jr, 

Benjamin Reuben Zalman-Polun, and Marcel Malanga 

‘shows that the collaboration and cooperation 

between the two states is growing stronger 

and stronger.’

 

But make no mistake: This wasn’t justice. It was 

negotiation. Washington wanted its men back, 

Kinshasa wanted a security guarantee and 

Congo’s minerals were the price.

 

Over the past few months ---- the DRC has attempted to 

win the Trump administration’s attention following the 

M23 militia group rapidly seizing mineral-rich eastern 

DRC territories beginning in January, displacing more 

than 700,000 people and k*lling at least 8,500, as of 

late February. 

 

However, countries like the United States have had 

their hands in the three-decade-long war over the 

DRC’s estimated $24 trillion in mineral reserves. 

 

Just in 2024, a US court ruled against former child 

miners who accused five US tech companies—

Apple, Dell, Google, Microsoft and Tesla—of 

supporting child labour. Further --- in 2024, 

news reports ------ said the US considered 

removing sanctions off the Israeli mining 

magnate Dan Gertler, who reportedly 

earns $200,000 daily ------- in 

mining royalties.

 

Washington has helped to destabilise the Congo for 

decades, first - by orchestrating the assassination 

of its Pan-Africanist leader & first prime minister, 

Patrice Lumumba (1925-61), and then by 

propping up Western-aligned leader 

Mobutu Sese Seko (1930-97).

 

 Meanwhile, US allies Rwanda and Uganda both 

arm and train the destabilising M23 militia.

 

 

__________________________________________

 

 

 

Southern Africa

 

Lesotho - Punished
For Trade Success

April 9th, 2025

  (African Stream)


Picture facing penalties for your achievements!

 

That’s the predicament Lesotho finds itself in after US 

President Donald Trump imposed a staggering 50% 

import tax on 2 April on this landlocked African 

country’s exports to the US, primarily 

affecting textiles and diamonds.

 

Many have hailed Lesotho as a success story under the 

African Growth and Opportunities Act (AGOA), a US 

trade initiative that allows 32 African states to 

export goods to the US without tariffs.

 

Lesotho has capitalised on AGOA - by establishing 

garment factories that provide denim jeans to US 

retailers, such as Calvin Klein, GAP, Levi’s, Old 

Navy and Walmart. Approximately 30,000 

factory workers, predominantly women, 

are employed, benefiting many of 

Lesotho’s 2.3 million citizens.

 

According to the World Bank, with a GDP per capita 

of $1,106, Lesotho struggles to purchase many US 

products ---- to satisfy Trump’s reciprocal trade

demands. In 2024, it exported $237.3 million 

in goods to the US but only imported $2.8 

million worth of US goods. 

 

This perceived trade imbalance has drawn Trump’s ire 

towards a nation he recently remarked ‘nobody has 

ever heard of.’

 

 

___________________________________________

 

 

 

West Africa

 

Niger FM: Currency 1st
Tool Of
Sovereignty

April 9th, 2025

  (African Stream)


On 3 April, Nigerien Minister of Foreign Affairs Bakary 

Yaou Sangaré, sat down in Moscow.. with RT France 

journalist, Daria Vaganova, to discuss the present 

and future of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).


Among the questions raised was that of

 financial and monetary sovereignty.

 

The AES—comprised of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger

—and 11 West and Central African countries use a 

currency called the CFA franc. It is printed in 

France and anchored to the Euro at a fixed 

exchange rate determined by France.

 

 Countries that use the Central African CFA franc must 

deposit 50 per cent of their national reserves in the 

French treasury, where they receive very low, and 

sometimes even negative, returns. 

 

All financial decisions regarding these reserves must 

thus pass through and obtain the approval of the 

French Ministry of the Economy and Finance. 

 

The currency was also historically overvalued, so the 

countries using it ...would purchase cheaper goods 

produced in France while simultaneously finding 

it more challenging ----- to trade with other 

countries - apart from France.

 

This interview was not the first time that an official 

suggested that the AES would stop using the 

CFA franc.

 

 On 31 January 2024, Burkina Faso President Ibrahim 

Traoré stated, ‘Changes may yet surprise you. And, 

it’s not just about the currency. We’re going to 

break all the bonds that keep us in slavery.’ 

 

On February the 11th, in 2025 -- Nigerien President 

Abdourahamane Tiani stated on local television 

that, ‘[a sovereign] currency is a step toward 

the end of colonisation.’ In that interview, 

he clarified that AES’ financial experts 

are working on developing ------ an

independent monetary system.

 

 

 

_________________________________

 

 

 

Paul Robeson --- Resisting
Mccarthyism

April 9th, 2025

  (African Stream)


On this day ----- actor, athlete and activist Paul Robeson 

(1898-1976) was born in New Jersey, USA. He played a 

significant role, as a pan-Africanist organiser during 

the anti-communist McCarthyist era --- running the 

anti-imperialist Council on African Affairs, which 

called for an end to colonialism on the 

African continent.

 

In the mid-20th century, the US government 

investigated Robeson for being a member 

of the Communist Party, stripping him 

of his passport. 

 

He argued that his work for African emancipation, both 

on the continent and in the diaspora ----- prompted his 

persecution. In other words, the ‘Red Scare’ over his 

alleged communist affiliation was a pretext to shut 

down his struggle for African people - worldwide.

 

African Stream can relate to what Robeson went through.

Though no government has stripped us 
of our right to
travel, we know what it’s like to 
have the US
government - seek to shut down 
one’s
agitation for Africa’s freedom. 

 

When YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, TikTok 

and Gmail closed our accounts in September 2023 ---

 (after the State Department accused us of peddling 

propaganda), African Stream boasted 2.5-million 

subscribers and hundreds of millions of viewers 

thanks to our uncompromising pan-Africanist, 

anti-imperialist agenda. And Washington 

didn’t like that. Just like they didn’t 

like Robenson’s.

 

Thank you, Paul Robeson -

for your powerful example.

 

 

 

_____________________________________





NYP: Anthrax kills 50 hippos - in


 Africa's main wildlife sanctuary


April 9th, 3:41am


(RT.ru)



Virunga National Park officials in DR Congo report


 that about 50 hippos have been killed in an 


anthrax outbreak.


 


As the New York Post notes, dozens of animals 


were found floating belly-up in the river south 


of Lake Edward, on the site.


 


According to the article, this raises concerns 


about the potential risks of transmission to 


humans and pets.


 


In 2024, a man was convicted in Tuva for


 infecting five people with anthrax.


 


Alexander Chepurnov, head of the laboratory of 


especially dangerous infections at the Centre 


for Basic Translational Medicine, Professor 


of Virology, said that the causative agent 


of anthrax has the ability to live in the 


soil for centuries, until it enters the 


body of a herbivore.







All Africa music winners

Image: Sudan's Wazza instrument

will africa solve hunger by 2030?

Image: bust of queen Nefertiti

ONE UNION

Two weeks before Brexit, the African Union

 announced a new single African passport
that permits holders to enter any of the
 54 AU member states without a visa –
an interesting turn in African history
which NO-ONE in the West knows
or cares about !  What a stunning
reflection of how far our mindset
and media are, from the 'world
community' we say we love.

__________________________________




The above is one reason why Rhondda Records
is devoting this page to Africa - and there
are so many other reasons!

Here are two - one bad - one good.

I was stunned, when I read a year or so
ago, that 40% of Africa has no regular
electricity supply! How could this be?

And, second, Africa is not only the
Mother of the human species...
it is, now, becoming the hope
of the new multipolar world.

Rise up, Africa!





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