Sudanese Prime Minister Kamil Idris has dissolved the
country’s caretaker government, just one day after
taking office, marking a significant shift in
Sudan’s leadership.
Idris, the first prime minister since the 2021 military coup,
was sworn in on Saturday, pledging to prioritize national
security, stability, and reconstruction.
Since April 2023, Sudan has been engulfed in a civil war, with
violent clashes between the military and the paramilitary
Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The conflict has resulted
in at least 24,000 deaths, although estimates
suggest the toll is far higher.
More than 14 million people have been displaced, including
over 4 million who fled to neighbouring countries. The war
has been marked by mass atrocities, including ethnically
motivated killings and sexual violence, particularly in
Darfur, where famine has been declared --- in
multiple locations.
In his first speech as prime minister, Idris urged countries
supporting the RSF ---to cease “criminal operations”
and vowed to serve Sudan with sincerity
and dedication.
While no timeline has been given for appointing a new
government, Idris’s move signals a potential political
reorganization in Sudan’s fragile landscape.
____________________________________________
Flooding in Nigeria’s Mokwa
Leaves 200 Dead, 500 Missing
June 2nd, 2:03pm
(teleSUR)
At least 200 people have died and 500 remain missing after
devastating floods swept through Mokwa, Niger State,
following torrential rains last week.
Local authorities have called off rescue operations,
fearing that no more survivors will be found.
The disaster, described as the worst flooding in the region
in six decades, has displaced over 3,000 people,
destroyed two roads and collapsed two
bridges ------ severely disrupting
transportation and trade.
Mokwa, a major agricultural hub, is where northern Nigerian
farmers sell produce to traders from the south. The floods
have devastated local markets, further exacerbating
food insecurity.
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu expressed condolences
to affected families, directing emergency relief efforts
to accelerate recovery.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) - has
begun distributing aid, while officials warn that inadequate
drainage infrastructure has worsened the crisis.
Scientists attribute Nigeria’s increasing flood disasters to climate change, noting that extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and intense.
_______________________________________
Measures are adopted -- in the
epicentre province of cholera
in Angola
June 2nd, 12:57pm
(Prensa Latina)
The province of Namibe, today the epicentre of the cholera
epidemic in Angola, adopts measures to contain the
advance of the disease, with more than 2,200
registered cases and 48 deaths.
The vice governor for the Political, Social and Economic
sector of the territory, Abel do Rosário Kapitango,
responded to Prensa Latina that in the last 24
hours, 83 new patients were certified and,
although the figure is high, there is a
decreasing trend.
He considered the active search for cases as one of the key
points of the confrontation, in which the province's health
teams work with the support of professionals sent by
the Ministry of Health (Minsa).
Likewise, he mentioned the beginning of vaccination against
cholera as an important action, based on the delivery of
eight thousand doses given to Namibe by the Minsa.
Do Rosário Kapitango explained that the coastal strip is
the most affected by the epidemic and specified that
very vulnerable communities have been identified
in these areas due to poor hygiene and access
conditions to drinking water, hence among
the actions the transfer of these people
to safer areas is promoted.
He said that there is some resistance on a part of these
populations, but the authorities... continue trying to
persuade through dialogue, about the importance
of continuing with this relocation.
In this regard, he pointed out that the new locations
provide drinking water, food and some other issues,
but acknowledged that these are emergency
measures; that the fundamental thing is to
continue working to guarantee a greater
supply of quality water to communities.
Namibe is the Angolan territory where it rains the least
and drought affects the populations quite intensely,
therefore, among the Government's priority
projects is the increase in connection
to distribution networks.
Currently 40 percent of residents in densely populated
areas do not have water connections, therefore, they
have set themselves the challenge of increasing the
collection of the liquid and installing 31,000 new
connections until 2027, the vice governor
pointed out.
Since the cholera epidemic was declared in Angola on
January 7, almost the entire country has had the
presence of the disease and the number of
registered cases exceeded 24,000, with
718 deaths.
This is the largest outbreak in recent years in the nation,
which is among the most affected on the continent...
The National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) reported
today on the preliminary actions underway for the 7th
general elections scheduled next year in the
African country.
NEBE President Melatwork Hailu explained that
Proclamation No. 1162/2019 --- of the Code of
Electoral Conduct, Registration of Political
Parties and Elections, as amended, was
presented to the House of People's
Representatives for approval.
Hailu revealed that the provisions of the document include
the virtual registration of candidates from anywhere.
He also announced the preparations of over 50,000
polling stations, to make them favorable for the
electorate throughout the country.... as well
as the online recruitment of officials who
will participate in the elections.
____________________________________________
Ghana beat Trinidad and Tobago
in Unity Cup football
May 31st, 11:21am
(Prensa Latina)
Ghana beat Trinidad and Tobago 4-0 today and took
third place in the Unity Cup soccer match for
Afro-Caribbean teams.
The Black Stars relied on veteran captain Jordan Ayew, who
opened the scoring in the sixth minute with a shot from
outside the area and assisted Razak Simpson... to
double the lead in the 12th.
The Leicester City striker gave another assist for the third,
scored by Mohammed Fuseini, in the 41st minute, and
the score was closed by Jabari St Hillaire's own
goal in the 58th minute.
For Simpson and Fuseini they were their first
goals...... with their country's national team.
Ghana did not have several important players ----- including Iñaki
Williams, from Spanish Athletic Bilbao; Mohammed Kudus, from
West Ham; Antoine Semenyo, from Bournemouth, and Thomas
Partey, from Arsenal, these last three - in the English League.
''It's always good to look to the future and some of the guys
took advantage of their opportunities and did really well,''
winning coach, Otto Addo said, after the game.
Later, the Unity final will be held in the British town
of Brentford --- after a 21-year hiatus, between
Jamaica and Nigeria.
___________________________________________
''Paramilitaries'' bomb hospitals and
neighbourhoods in El Obeid, Sudan
May 31st, 7:13am
(Prensa Latina)
With heavy artillery, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF, English)
today bombed 2 hospitals and residential neighbourhoods
in the city of El Obeid, in the state of North Kordofan,
central Sudan.
At least six people died and others were injured
as a result of the attack, a military source
confirmed --- cited here by the media.
The administration of the Al-Daman hospital, affected by
the bombing, announced its departure from service
''until further notice'' - as doctors make efforts to
contain a cholera outbreak in Sudan's capital.
The director general of the World Health Organization, Tedros
Adhanom Ghebreyesus, he expressed his ''horror'', for the
attack and urged to stop attacks against healthcare
facilities ----- and protect all infrastructure and
its personnel.
The cholera epidemic spreads in Khartoum, where dozens
of citizens died this week --- and doctors face difficulties
treating patients amid supply shortages and cholera's
rapid spread.
At the time, the director of the International Rescue Committee
in Sudan, Etizaz Yousif, stated that the country is on the brink
of a widespread public health catastrophe.
For its part, the World Food Program announced that one of
its facilities was hit and suffered significant damage - due
to frequent bombing by the RSF.
____________________________________________
They reaffirm commitment to inclusive
participatory dialogue ---- in Ethiopia
May 31st, 4:46am
(Prensa Latina)
The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission (ENDC)
reaffirmed its commitment --- to ensuring that the
ongoing process is inclusive and participatory
during a federal level consultation meeting
that continues today.
Chief Commissioner Mesfin Araya --- underlined the
determination of the ENDC, in close collaboration
with interested parties, to meet the aspirations
of the Ethiopian people and find lasting
solutions -------- to the country's
fundamental challenges.
Araya explained - that the incorporation of the Regional State of
Tigray in the national dialogue and the meeting of contributions
from the diaspora are fundamental priorities for the Commission.
He reiterated the willingness of that institution to play its role
in fostering a debate --- that addresses the root causes of the
country's problems through broad participation and inclusion.
He urged -- religious leaders, elders, political parties, media
organizations, civic and professional associations, public
figures, influential people and democratic and law
enforcement institutions --- to contribute
significantly to the success of this
historic national dialogue.
For its part, commissioner Ambaye Ogato said the time
has come for Ethiopia and its citizens to take bold and
courageous steps to resolve the nation's complex
challenges ---- through an inclusive debate.
Ogato called on the entire population to take over the process
----- by contributing their knowledge, experience and time.
The ENDC, established on February 23, 2022, is responsible for
facilitating dialogue on the country's most pressing issues.
Since its inception, it has carried out extensive preparatory
activities, including agenda meeting in different regions
and social segments.
_____________________________________________
Links with Italy -- and confrontation
with Mpox marked Ethiopia week
May 31st, 4:45am
(Prensa Latina)
The success... of the working visit by Prime Minister
Abiy Ahmed to Italy, as well as the health actions
implemented... in response to the detection of
the Mpox virus, marked the week that ends
today in Ethiopia.
Ahmed, leading a high-level delegation, completed a
work agenda last Monday that included a meeting
with Pope Leo XIV, official conversations with
his Italian counterpart, Giorgia Meloni, and
evaluations of joint projects with the
Webuild Group, a company that
specializes in the design and
construction of large
infrastructures
Ethiopian Finance Minister Ahmed Shide stated that in
extensive talks with the Supreme Pontiff both sides
agreed to strengthen collaboration on education,
world peace and bilateral and multi-
lateral commitments.
The Vatican also reaffirmed its commitment to
supporting the educational development of
the African country, he stressed.
Shide, in the case of the meeting with Meloni, stated that
it focused on key bilateral issues that highlighted the
growing collaboration between the two nations,
with special emphasis on continued Italian
support for economic reforms, energy
development ------- and overall
Ethiopian growth.
He highlighted -- the constant increase in Italian aid to the
development of Addis Ababa in recent years. In addition,
he revealed that both governments signed agreements
in several critical areas, such as green development,
urban infrastructure and macroeconomic reform.
The African minister revealed that investment was also
a central issue in the talks, about which he stressed
that the favorable investment climate in the country
represented an opportunity........ to increase
Rome's participation.
Both heads of government reaffirmed their commitment
to promoting cooperation in sectors such as energy,
infrastructure and finance, he added.
On the other hand, Ahmed met with the executive director
of the Webuild Group, Pietro Salini. During the debate,
the African leader invited the Italian company to
expand its investments in priority sectors
such as housing, energy, mining and
fertilizer production.
Salini expressed the European company's willingness to
undertake large-scale projects aligned with Ethiopia's
development goals.
Another important health issue was the intensification of
efforts by sector authorities to control the spread of the
Mpox virus detected - so far - only in the town from
Moyale, Oromia region, with 3 confirmed cases.
___________________________________________
Angola tries for the second successful
day in the swimming championship
May 31st, 3:54am
(Prensa Latina)
The Angolan national swimming team will launch today
at the Alvalade pool in Luanda to seek a successful
second day in the international championship of
the sport called Independence Tournament.
The day before, the team won 20 medals, of which six
were gold, five silver and nine bronze -- placing them
in second place by country, after Namibia (9-5-2) &
followed in the South Africa medal table, which on
the first day of competition obtained three gold
medals, three silver metals and one bronze.
For Angola, the most prominent figure -- was the young Santiago
Guimarães, only 14 years old, who took home 3 gold medals
for his performance in the 50 meter butterfly (27.32), in the
100 metre backstroke (1:08.12) and in the 100 metres
freestyle (56.07).
The Independence Tournament began this Friday with the
participation of around 150 swimmers from Angola,
South Africa, Namibia, Mozambique, Zambia,
Portugal and Cape Verde.
The competition runs until tomorrow and is
dedicated to the 50 years of national
independence.
The host country has a team of 26 swimmers
in the women's and men's categories.
This is the third international competition organized by
the Angolan Swimming Federation in three years,
the most recent - the All Africa Championships
in 2024.
___________________________________________
African Union Issues Urgent Warning
Cholera Surges Across 20 Countries
May 30th, 2:05pm
(teleSUR)
The African Union’s public health agency has sounded a critical
alarm over a surging cholera outbreak, with 127,409 cases and
at least 2,597 deaths recorded so far this year, marking one of
the worst epidemics in recent memory.
Ngashi Ngongo, Executive Director of Africa CDC, confirmed that
efforts are underway to coordinate a continent-wide response
to tackle the rapidly spreading disease.
We are scaling up our response to a
fast-spreading #cholera outbreak.
Drawing on lessons from the #mpox response ---- we’re working
with partners to activate a coordinated, cross-border strategy
focused on surveillance, lab systems, vaccine access, and
health system resilience. See… pic.twitter.com/pZlUi5Ivqv
— Africa CDC (@AfricaCDC) May 27, 2025
“The situation is highly concerning. We need a unified strategy,
not isolated country responses—just as we did with mpox,”
Ngongo stated.
Between January and May 2025, cholera’s mortality rate ---- has
reached 2%, surpassing the critical threshold set by the World
Health Organization (WHO). The disease ---- caused by
contaminated food and water, has thrived in areas facing humanitarian crises, water shortages, and poor sanitation infrastructure.
Africa CDC reports that four countries—DRC, Angola, Sudan, and
South Sudan—account for 83% of infections and 92% of deaths.
Sudan is experiencing an especially dire crisis, with 70 fatalities
and 2,119 infections reported in just two days in Khartoum,
amid ongoing civil war and healthcare system collapse.
Africa CDC is deploying specialized teams, medical supplies,
and financial support to affected nations. Inspired by the
2022–2023 mpox containment model, the agency is
pushing for cross-border interventions and
collaborative national strategies to halt
a further spread.
Though treatable, cholera remains highly lethal without timely
care, causing rapid dehydration and death within hours —
especially in communities lacking health services.
With children and adults alike at risk, Africa’s ability to combat
this outbreak hinges on expanding access to clean water, sanitation, and emergency medical care, all of which
remain structural challenges for many regions.
______________________________________
Deadly Crash in Libyan Desert
Claims Lives of Sudanese Migrants
May 30th, 1:51pm
(teleSUR)
Eleven Sudanese migrants and a Libyan driver were killed
in a fatal collision between their vehicle and a truck - 90
kilometres north of Kufra, Libyan authorities confirmed.
The victims included three women and two children,
while a 65-year-old man and his 10-year-old son
were injured in the crash.
This tragedy follows another deadly incident, earlier this month, when seven Sudanese migrants died after their vehicle broke down, leaving 34 stranded for days in the desert.
Libya, plunged into chaos after the 2011 NATO-backed uprising
that ousted Muammar Gaddafi, has become a major transit
point for migrants fleeing war and poverty in Africa
and the Middle East.
The country’s porous borders with Chad, Niger, Sudan, Egypt,
Algeria, and Tunisia have enabled human traffickers to
exploit instability, smuggling migrants into Libya
in hopes of reaching Europe.
Since Sudan’s civil war erupted in 2023, thousands have fled
to Libya, escaping violence, displacement, and famine, as
the conflict continues to devastate the region.
_________________________________________________
Russian Ambassador announces work
on creating a Russian military base
in the Central African Republic
May 29th, 10:30pm
(Izvestia.ru)
Russia -- hopes to reach an agreement with the Central African
Republic on the deployment of a military base on its territory,
the project is at the stage of interdepartmental elaboration,
and the parties are discussing mutually acceptable
conditions for its implementation. This was
reported to Izvestia by the Russian
Ambassador to Bangui...
Alexander Bikantov.
"The issue of creating a military base in the Central African
Republic --- is being worked out through the Ministry of
Defense of the two countries. Mutually acceptable
conditions for project implementation, are
considered. We hope that in the future
the parties will be able to reach the
necessary agreements,"
Bikantov said.
In March, Russian Deputy Defense Minister, Yunus-Bek
Yevkurov, paid a working visit to the Central African
Republic: he met with President Faustin-Arcange
Touadera - and held talks with the Minister of
National Defense and Army Reconstruction
of the Central African Republic --- Claude
Rameau Biro. During the visit --- it was
agreed to expand cooperation in the
defense and economic spheres.
The Russian side confirmed that it is ready
to further assist the CAR authorities
in strengthening security.
______________________________________
Personalities receive medal for
50 years of independence
of Angola
May 29th, 11:07am
(Prensa Latina)
The president of Angola, Joao Lourenco, today presided over
the ceremony for the presentation of commemorative medals
for the 50 years of national independence, which on this
occasion will receive almost 700 personalities.
The decoration ceremony began this Thursday and took place
in two sessions, during the morning and afternoon, due to
the high number of people --- who received the award for
their contributions to the country in different spheres.
In total there are 698 who were recognized, some posthumously,
with the commemorative medals of the Independence class,
and Peace and Development; of which 331 will be awarded
this Friday in the continuation of the tributes.
This second award ceremony began with the distinction to
María Eugenia Neto, widow of Dr. António Agostinho Neto,
who was the first president of the country.
The writer was also not on the first award date, which took
place on April 4, and during which 247 personalities
received the award for their contribution to the
liberation and development of the country.
Likewise, on this occasion the career of guerrillas, nationalists,
artists, communicators and athletes was highlighted, among
whom were names such as Adérito Bermiro Correa, Alves
Bernardo Baptista “Nito Alves”, and musical bands like
Jóvenes de Prenda and Kissanguela.
_____________________________________________
Cuba's support ---for the liberation of
Southern Africastands out in Angola
May 29th, 11:48am
(Prensa Latina)
Various personalities today highlighted Cuba's role in the
liberation of Southern Africa and the fall of apartheid,
during an international conference in Luanda,
capital of Angola.
The Minister of Telecommunications, Information
Technologies and Social Communication - Mário
Oliveira, who was in charge of the inauguration
of the Conference on the Role of Frontline
Countries in the Total Liberation of
Southern Africa, highlighted the
fundamental military actions
and Cuban support.
In particular he referred to the Battle of Cuito Cuanavale,
whose triumph on March 23, 1988 marked the definitive
turning point for the establishment of the agreements
that led to the liberation of Namibia and accelerated
the fall of apartheid.
General António dos Santos França “Ndalu”, for his part, he
highlighted the prominence of the Armed Forces for the
Liberation of Angola (Fapla) in combative actions
with the support of Cuba and the then Union
of Soviet Socialist Republics.
It meant that Cuito Cuanavale not only involved the withdrawal
of South African military forces from Angolan territory and the
maintenance of its integrity, but was crucial to Namibia's
independence.
Former Mozambican president Joaquim Chissano also referred
to the relevance of frontline countries for the overthrow of the
colonial and racist apartheid regime that prevailed in South
Africa, just as he highlighted the help of nations such as
Algeria and Cuba.
Chissano highlighted the actions of countries such
as Tanzania and Zambia, which prevented the
expansion of apartheid in Angola
and Mozambique.
The Conference, which took place this Thursday, at the
Talatona Convention Centre, is part of the celebrations
for the 50 years of Angola's independence and was
sponsored by the Ministry of Telecommunications,
Information Technology & Social Communication,
with the support of Ediciones Noviembre.
The minister of the branch - in his inaugural words,
emphasized that his purpose is not only to honour
the actions and heroes of the past, likewise, it is
proposed to call for collective consciousness
and look to the future, he said.
The meeting, held in hybrid format (in-person and virtual),
included panels dedicated to the Role of Frontline
Countries; Internationalist Military Articulation
in the Liberation of Southern Africa; and the
Role of Diplomacy... in the Liberation of the Southern African Countries.
The event brought together representatives of liberation
movements and veterans of the fight against apartheid,
government representatives and diplomats, historians,
researchers and academics from Africa and other
countries such as Mozambique, Namibia,
Russia and Cuba.
In addition to the panels, the event included the screening
of documentaries, a photographic exhibition and the sale
of books, essentially focused on the conference theme.
____________________________________________
South African Reserve Bank
reduces repo rate
May 29th, 11:13am
(Prensa Latina)
The Monetary Policy Committee of the Reserve Bank of
South Africa (SARB) reduced the repo rate by 25 basis
points, with effect from tomorrow the 30th.
This reduces the preferential rate
on bank loans to 10.75 percent.
The repo rate, specialists recall, is an interest rate
used by central banks to manage liquidity and
control inflation.
It refers to the rate at which commercial banks can
borrow short-term funds from a central bank, with
a commitment to repurchase it at a slightly
higher price.
As stated today by the governor of the SARB, Lesetja
Kganyago, when presenting the statement from the
Monetary Policy Committee, in the future the
previous inflation forecasts... have been
revised downwards.
This reflects the lower starting point, as well as an
assumption of a stronger exchange rate and
lower global oil prices, he added.
These factors offset the pressure on fuel costs arising
from the fuel tax increase announced in the Budget.
In addition, our previous forecast included VAT
increases, which have now been cancelled,
the official added
In South Africa, inflation returned to
below 3.0 percent in April 2025.
“Now that inflation has slowed, we have the opportunity
to ensure lower inflation... at low cost. This scenario
illustrates that opportunity”, Kganyago continued.
While the inflation outlook appears favorable, the
Monetary Policy Committee considered an
adverse scenario, illustrating the
upside risks.
Thus, South Africa's (PIB) Gross Domestic Product
projections were cut and growth is expected to
stand at 1.2 percent this year, increasing to
1.8 percent by 2027.
The global environment remains difficult, making domestic
reform.... crucial to achieving strong growth. The main
contribution of the SARB - is to achieve price stability,
and in that aspect there is some room to consolidate
lower inflation & pave the way towards sustainably
lower interest rates, Kganyago said.
“Other measures that would improve economic conditions
include achieving a prudent level of public debt,
continuing to renew and strengthen network
industries, reduce managed price inflation
and keep real wage growth in line with
productivity gains”, he concluded.
___________________________________________
Guides on Labour Migration 2025
approved in South Africa
May 29th, 10:41am
(Prensa Latina)
The Council of Ministers of South Africa approved the
so-called White Paper on the National Labour
Migration Policy (PNML) 2025 for immediate
implementation.
As stated at a press conference in this capital by the
Minister of the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni,
this represents a significant step in the regulation
of the movement and employment of foreigners
in South Africa.
“Its goal --- is to strike a balance in various areas, including
addressing South Africans' expectations for job prospects,
given the increase in unemployment and the perception
that foreigners restrict access to the labour market”,
the official explained.
The new Policy introduces quotas on the total number of
foreigners documented with work visas who can be
employed in important economic sectors such as
agriculture, hospitality and tourism, as well as
construction, among others.
The provision, he explained, complements other government
interventions on the issue such as the application of a list
of sectors in which business visas cannot be granted
to foreigners.
It also welcomes amendments -- to the National Small Business
Act 1996 (Law 102 of 1996), as amended, to limit the creation
of small, medium and micro businesses, and trade in certain
sectors of the economy by foreigners, added the Minister.
__________________________________________
Between achievements and
challenges,the Sahrawi
cause advances
May 29th, 9:51am
(Prensa Latina)
The achievements of the Polisario Front are innumerable,
of great significance on the path towards the supreme
objective of achieving total independence of the
Sahrawi people and Western Sahara, stated
today the ambassador to Argentina,
Mohamed Ali.
The representative of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic
(RASD) is a central figure at the II International Conference
of Journalists and Media in Solidarity with the Sahrawi
Cause that takes place in Buenos Aires and that
concludes on Friday.
Among the main achievements in this fight against colonialism,
first in Spain and now against which the monarchy of Morocco
intensifies, Ali cited in statements to Prensa Latina the
creation of the Polisario Front and the subsequent
proclamation of the SADR.
The formation of the brave and combative Sahrawi army
(ELPS), with great mobility and innovation in guerrilla
warfare, that it has inflicted severe defeats first on
Spanish colonialism and then on the Moroccan
and Mauritanian occupier ----- is another
achievement, the diplomat noted.
Besides, he referred to «the solid and firm organization that
allowed the unity of the people to solidify and make the
Sahrawis who fled their land have the possibility of
enjoying the services more basic, such as food,
health and education, which is bilingual,
Arabic and Spanish.
Western Sahara is the only Spanish-speaking Arab country and
along with Equatorial Guinea the only two Spanish-speaking
nations in Africa, he noted and thanked Cuba for its
educational cooperation to ensure the teaching
of Cervantes' language, mainly among
children and young people.
This collaboration was fundamental in the literacy campaign,
which has been one of the greatest achievements of the
SADR that placed the Sahrawi nation at the forefront
in this sphere, on the continent.
An active diplomacy that has obtained recognition from the
Sahrawi State by 84 countries, of which 29 are Latin
American, is another success. Today the SADR is
a full member of the African Union, meanwhile,
for the UN and the EU, the Polisario Front, is
the legitimate representative of the people
of Western Sahara who have the right to
self-determination, Ali asserted.
In the judicial field where we deal with illegal plundering
by the Moroccan occupier and third countries that buy
what was stolen ---- such as phosphates, fishing, and
agriculture - he noted - we are also in the battle for
control of our airspace.
______________________________________
Israeli ambassador expelled
from a university in Senegal
May 28th, 3:09pm
(Prensa Latina)
In repudiation of the Zionist aggression against Palestine,
Senegalese students booed Israeli ambassador Yuval
Waks and expelled him from the grounds of Cheikh
Anta Diop University, it was reported here today.
The Tel Aviv diplomat was supposed to attend a conference
on international relations yesterday but was forced to leave
the university campus by students carrying banners with
slogans such as “Free Palestine” and “No to genocide.”
Local media reported today that the students opposed their
university being used as a platform to justify Israeli actions
and demanded an end to the war in Gaza and equal rights
for the Palestinian people.
Political observers note that Wednesday marks 600 days
since the Zionist military invasion of Gaza, which has
The president of the AU Commission warned that international
geopolitics -------- is carried out at the expense of Africa and
influential global powers do not pay adequate attention
to us, or to our ambition as a continent.
Before concluding, he highlighted that “panafricanism was built
by our ancestors --- not only on the basis of the legitimate aspirations of our people, but more broadly... about a
series of strategic objectives that reflect critical
thinking: for the future of this continent and
its people”.
___________________________________
Prime Minister of Ethiopia, visited
technology companies in France
May 24th, 5:27am
(Prensa Latina)
The Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, visited several
industries in France, focusing mainly on technology and
artificial intelligence, as part of his working visit, the
Office of the African Head of Government
reported today.
Ahmed - and the accompanying high-level delegation -
toured Station F, a private sector business incubator
for technology startups, & the largest development
centre for startups - in the world.
The source specified that Addis Ababa's startup ecosystem
is still in its early stages, but demonstrates great potential
driven by a young and technologically savvy population,
as well as growing digital connectivity.
In this sense, the government adopted measures to support
innovation through initiatives such as the ''Ethiopia Digital
202'' strategy, which aims to create an enabling
environment for startups --- especially in
the financial technology, agricultural
technology & e-commerce sectors.
Likewise, a comprehensive legislative framework, known as
the Startups Proclamation, which seeks to establish legal
and institutional support mechanisms for the sector and
addresses key challenges such as limited access to
financing and regulatory barriers.
On the other hand, the African leader visited the Nokia France
headquarters in this capital, a nerve centre for research and
development in 5G and 6G technologies, cybersecurity,
artificial intelligence and optical networks.
The program included a sample of fibre optic sensors,
energy savings and a tour of 5G laboratories, which
provided valuable information for Ethiopia on
innovation, infrastructure development
and intersectoral collaboration.
Finally, the Ethiopian delegation toured the facilities of Thales
Research & Technology (TRT) France, a multidisciplinary
research centre of the Thales Group, which serves as a
cornerstone for the company's global research efforts
with a focus on advanced fields such as aerospace,
defense and artificial intelligence.
These visits -------- underline the importance of international commitment & knowledge sharing to accelerate Ethiopia's
digital transformation... & position the country as a future
centre of innovation and technology ---- in Africa, the
source stressed.
Ahmed arrived in France on Thursday to complete a working
visit that included bilateral talks with President Emmanuel
Macron -- to review progress in the implementation of the
agreements reached during the visit from the dignitary
to Addis Ababa, in December 2024.
___________________________________
Ethiopia consolidated its position
as an event organizer in Africa
May 24th, 4:54am
(Prensa Latina)
The celebration of important regional and international
events in modern facilities ------ which contributed to
consolidating Ethiopia's organizational capacity,
marked the week that concludes today.
The XX Regional Conference of the International Labour Organization (OIT) for Labour Base Professionals met
from May 19 to 23 at the African Union Conference
Centre, under the theme “Resilient communities
and healthy environments: Approach to the
Intensive Employment Investment
Program (EIIP)”.
Policymakers, planners, professionals and global
researchers participated to exchange ideas on
policies and programs, that promote decent
jobs and sustainable livelihoods in Africa.
The head of the ILO Department of Employment,
Development and Investment, Mito Tsukamoto,
praised Ethiopia for its leadership -- in
promoting sustainable and inclusive
employment policies across Africa.
Tsukamoto -- speaking to the Ethiopia News Agency -- said
Addis Ababa provided a crucial platform for policymakers
to design inclusive employment strategies. He also
reaffirmed the international organization's
continued support to promote
sustainable job creation
on the continent.
“The PIIE demonstrates, at the community level, how these
initiatives can generate inclusive prosperity and essential
infrastructure”, he noted. He recalled that this initiative
launched in the 1970s was exhaustively tested
and perfected.
He added that these South-South collaboration events, are
essential, and we deeply thank the Ethiopian government
for bringing together key ministers.... to guide Africa's
public policies.
The event was organized by the Ministry of Urban
and Infrastructure and the Ethiopian Highway
Administration, in conjunction with the ILO.
On the other hand, participants in the leading event in Africa
on digital identity “ID4Africa 2025”, held from May 20 to 23,
stated that Ethiopia is an example for the continent by
ensuring inclusive service and accessibility.
Under the motto ''Digital identity at scale: prioritizing use,
accelerating impact'', the event brought together more
than two thousand delegates from more than 95
countries in a program that included: keynote
presentations, round tables, national reports
and an important exhibition that highlighted
cutting-edge solutions for this activity.
Ethiopia was selected to host this year's event at the 2024
Annual General Meeting, held in Cape Town, South Africa.
ID4Africa Chief Executive Joseph Atick cited the country's
strong political will, preparedness of its infrastructure and
commitment to inclusive digital transformation, as key
factors for selection.
ID4Africa is a pan-African movement committed to supporting
African nations in building strong and responsible identity
ecosystems that drive socio-economic development,
digital transformation and humanitarian initiatives.
For the Horn of Africa ---- the Third Water Forum of the
Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD)
was important, focused on strengthening regional
efforts on groundwater governance.
From May 19 to 21, the meeting took place in this capital
under the theme “Building a Platform for Sustainable
Regional Cooperation in Groundwater”, which
brought together representatives of the
member states of the African entity,
international organizations,
technical experts ---- and
development partners.
Key priorities were addressed in the discussions:
harmonizing policies, engaging stakeholders at
all levels, strengthen institutions, and aligning
national efforts with the Authority's Regional
Groundwater Roadmap.
The results of the forum will contribute to IGAD's broader
commitment to integrated source management, climate
resilience and sustainable development in the region.
____________________________________
Brazil and Angola strengthen
commercial ties despite
bird flu
May 23rd, 11:34am
(Prensa Latina)
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva today received his Angolan
counterpart, João Lourenco, within the framework of Africa
Week in Brazil and to debate the fight against hunger and
bilateral cooperation.
Also the reception at the Planalto Palace, capital headquarters
of the Executive Branch, occurred around the II Brazil-Africa
Dialogue on Food Security, Combating Hunger and Rural
Development, which brings together leaders and
representatives of countries from that
continent, in Brasilia.
Lourenço's visit reinforces bilateral ties, in a context of trade
growth, especially in agricultural exports, in the midst of
the alert for an outbreak of bird flu in southern Brazil.
The stay is also marked by the signing of agreements
in key areas such as education, health and tourism.
In 2023, a member of the ruling Workers' Party visited
Angola, where 7 technical cooperation agreements
were formalized.
Since then, trade ties have intensified. Brazilian exports to
the African country increased 20.2 percent in 2023,
reaching $492.7 million - with an emphasis on
products such as sugar, poultry and pork,
and oils.
So far in 2025, between January and April, Brazil exported to
Angola for 190.9 million dollars, an increase of 28.6 percent
compared to the same period of the previous year.
Leading products this year include steel, molasses and
poultry, which alone accounts for 20 percent of total
exports, according to official data.
However, the growing relationship - faces a technical
challenge: the recent detection of the first outbreak
of bird flu on a commercial farm in the state of Rio
Grande do Sul triggered international alerts.
The disease, caused by an infectious virus, that
primarily affects birds, could threaten Brazilian
exports, particularly meat, such as chicken.
Given the situation, the Ministry of Agriculture
implemented emergency protocols, including
inspections within a 10-kilometre radius
around the detected focus.
Until this Thursday, only a single outbreak
was being investigated, with no
confirmed expansion.
The virus had already been detected in 2023 in
wild birds in the state Espiritu Santo (sudeste),
but this ---- is the first time it has affected
commercial production.
Despite concerns, the authorities are confident
that the outbreak will not significantly impact
exports, thanks to transparency, and the
health measures adopted.
_______________________________________________
Sudan rejectsUS accusationsabout
''the use'' of chemical weapons
May 23rd, 10:40am
(Prensa Latina)
The Sovereign Transitional Council (CST), which
governs Sudan, today rejected accusations
from the US about the use of chemical
weapons in the war against the
paramilitaries.
CST Information Minister Khalid al Aiser, said in a
statement issued after threats of sanctions from
Washington that such arguments are unfounded
and constitute political blackmail & deliberate
falsification of facts.
The day before, the United States called on the
Sudanese government to cease the use of
chemical weapons, without clarifying
the date or place.. in which they
would have been used.
Likewise, it directed restrictions on US exports to
Sudan and access to US government credit lines.
_______________________________________
South Africa --- advocates at UNESCO
for the fight against gender violence
May 23rd, 8:22am
(Prensa Latina)
The vice president of South Africa, Paul Mashatile --- stood
out at the UNESCO Transforming MEN'talities Conference
in Paris, the importance of international cooperation
and social transformation to confront
gender violence.
In his speech, Mashatile stressed that the world faces
“serious persistent challenges” such as geopolitical
instability, the rise of nationalism & protectionism,
that threaten international cooperation and
sustainable development.
These challenges, he highlighted, require
“inclusive and coordinated responses”.
When addressing gender violence, Mashatile called
this social phenomenon “one of the most serious
current challenges”.
During his speech, the senior official praised the
Transforming MEN'talities campaign -- led by
UNESCO, for its innovative approach that
includes men and boys in the fight
against gender violence (GBV).
South Africa, he recalled --- as a pioneer in implementing
this initiative, has adopted three strategic approaches:
the integration of the program in youth through Higher
Health, research on the social and behavioral factors
that perpetuate GBV, and regional and international collaboration to expand the impact of the program.
Mashatile also highlighted - how gender violence is
a structural problem, deeply rooted in traditional
notions of masculinity ----- that perpetuate
stereotypes and discrimination.
It has particular repercussions in terms of precariousness,
poverty and social exclusion, so its overcoming must
look at education and the transformation of
mind sets, to build an egalitarian and
resilient society.
Unless we transform the mindset of men in our
communities, we will not be able to build the
society we envision, Mashatile emphasized.
_________________________________
Most victims of murders on
South African farms
are black
May 23rd, 7:47am
(Prensa Latina)
South African Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, stated
here today that the majority of victims of violence
on the country's farms have, historically, been
black people.
When presenting crime statistics for the fourth quarter of
the previous fiscal year, January 2025, Mchunu said the
history of South African farm killings has always been
distorted and reported in an unbalanced manner;
the truth is that the murders in those “places
have always included African people, in
greater numbers”.
The report showed a notable decline in farm attacks,
with six incidents recorded in the fourth quarter,
compared to 12 in the previous quarter.
The victims included 2 farm owners, 2
employees, a manager, and a resident.
Although the South African Police Service - does not
classify crime statistics by race, Mchunu, this time,
in the context of statements made on the subject
by US President Donald Trump... the Minister
revealed that the two farm owners killed
during the fourth quarter, were black
and non-white Africans.
Additionally, the two employees and the farm manager
were also black, while the only resident, was white.
Mchunu reiterated SAPS' commitment to conducting
thorough investigations to ensure justice is served.
In his speech, the official highlighted the central
government's commitment to the National Rural
Security Strategy, whose objective is to create
a safe environment in these areas.
Starting this year, he revealed, “when we publish
first quarter results, we will include other crime
categories in the country.... to offer a more
complete picture”.
Thus, he continued, murders in rural and urban areas,
rather than just on commercial farms as is done now.
On the other hand, the Minister maintained that
although land invasions occur, he rejected the
idea that they reflect a government policy.
Land invasions are, in general, acts of desperation
carried out by Africans who lack land and need
to settle. It's something “sporadic and it's still
illegal, hence the cases and investigations
about it”, he explained.
In his speech Mchunu revealed that --- next week the
Minister of Agrarian Reform and Rural Development,
Mzwanele Nyhontso, will offer clarifications on the
term “land appropriation” which, he maintained,
has recently been misused.
_______________________________
They describe their president's visit
to the US as successful in
South Africa.
May 22nd, 11:25am
(Prensa Latina)
Secretary General of the African National Congress (ANC,
the main governing party in South Africa), Fikile Mbalula,
today described President Cyril Ramaphosa's visit to
the United States as a mission accomplished“.
The head of state... had to go to the White House to meet with
President Donald Trump and clear things up for the first time,
face to face. President Ramaphosa must be applauded for
this, said the party leader.
''He did it for his country. Not, by itself, to protect the interests
of South Africans, andI think -- yesterday's restart meant
diplomatic channels will be opened. Therefore, it is a
great achievement for South Africa'',
Mbalula highlighted.
The day before, Trump repeated in the Oval Office -- before the
press and Ramaphosa, with false graphic arguments or taken
out of context, accusations of alleged genocide against the
white population in South Africa.
We collect refugees from many, many places, if we perceive
that there is persecution or genocide, Trump said, referring
to the recent arrival of several dozen members of South
Africa's white Afrikaner minority, descendants of
Dutch colonisers who arrived in the country
in 1652.
Ramaphosa rejected that nationals who traveled to the
United States are refugees, because they do not fit
the description that they suffer political, religious
or economic persecution.
Although the final result of the South African president's visit
to the United States remains to be seen.. in the opinion of
local analysts, it is possible that it helps at least in part
to smooth things over between the two countries.
______________________________________
Ethiopia seeks access to the sea based
on mutual respect and cooperation
May 22nd, 9:12am
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopia's strategic search for maritime access is based on
the principle of mutual respect, transparency and regional
cooperation, an official source stated today.
This was expressed by the head of Training and Education of
the Ethiopian Defense Forces, Lieutenant General Yimer
Mekonnen, opening a high-level conference titled
«Navigating Economic and Security Cooperation
between the Gulf and the Horn of Africa:
Opportunities, Challenges and
Future Directions».
Mekonnen stressed that the collaboration between the Horn
of Africa and the Gulf region is not merely diplomatic; It is
a question of regional stability. “Ethiopia seeks not only
assistance, but also - to reliably contribute to peace,
security and development throughout the region”,
he asserted.
For his part, the executive director of the (IFA) Institute of
Foreign Affairs, Jafar Bedru, considered that the call
reflects the collective determination to foster
meaningful commitment, build mutual
understanding and promote a shared
vision for regional peace, security
and prosperity.
Bedru expressed the IFA's commitment to generating practical
research, empowering foreign policy actors and serving as a
centre of thought leadership in diplomacy, peace and
international cooperation.
The theme of this year's dialogue --- is economic and security
cooperation: opportunities, challenges and future directions
summarize both urgency and opportunity, he stressed.
The selection of the topic reflects the growing need to develop
a more coordinated and coherent response to the complex
and interrelated dynamics that make up this geostrategic
maritime space, he continued.
Considering the Red Sea and Gulf of Eden corridor as a crucial
geopolitical interface, he highlighted that, from Ethiopia's
perspective, stability --- the long-term governance and
accessibility of that space is of utmost importance.
He reiterated that Addis Ababa's pursuit of guaranteed
maritime access is not a passing concern, it is a
permanent national imperative, driven by the
vision of security, economic viability and
regional integration.
The third regional consultative forum on the Red Sea
and Gulf of Aden is organized by the IFA and the
War College of the Ethiopian Defense Force.
_____________________________________
Tanzanian authoritiesblock access
to X networking platform
May 22nd, 8:01am
(Prensa Latina)
The Government of Tanzania blocked access to social
network X --- after several cyberattacks on official
accounts --- that published false content
information, official sources pointed
out here today.
Tanzanian police released a statement Thursday
explaining that hackers used their account to
publish pornographic images and fake ads,
including a statement -- about the alleged
death of President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
According to sources, investigations are underway to reach
the culprits and government spokesman Gerson Msigwa,
described the cyberattacks as a minor incident and
assured citizens ------ that Tanzania's digital
infrastructure remains secure.
For political observers, this situation occurs in the midst of
growing political tension in the country ahead of the next
general elections scheduled for October.
In recent days, several foreign activists and jurists...... were
detained at Dar Es Salaam airport upon arrival in Tanzania,
for attempting to attend the preliminary hearing of the
trial against the Tanzanian opposition leader, Tundu
Lissu, prosecuted for an alleged crime of treason
and for publication of false information.
Lissu -- is the president of the Democracy and Progress Party
(Chadema), an opponent of the current government chaired
by Samia Suluhu Hassan.
__________________________________________
ILO praised Ethiopia's leadership
in employment policies in Africa
May 22nd, 5:52am
(Prensa Latina)
The International Labour Organization (OIT) praised Ethiopia
for its leadership in promoting sustainable and inclusive
employment policies across Africa, during the
XX Regional Conference for Labour Base
Professionals, that meets today.
The head of the ILO Department of Employment, Development
& Investment, Mito Tsukamoto, expressed this while greeting
Addis Ababa for the success of the conclave scheduled for
May 19 to 23 in this capital --- under the theme “Resilient
Communities and a Healthy Environment: The Intensive
Employment Investment Program Approach (PIIE)”.
Tsukamoto, speaking to the Ethiopia News Agency, said Addis
Ababa provided a crucial platform for policymakers to design
inclusive employment strategies. He also reaffirmed the
international organization's continued support ---- to
promote sustainable job creation across Africa.
“The PIIE demonstrates, at the community level, how these
initiatives can generate inclusive prosperity and essential
infrastructure”, he noted. He recalled that this initiative
launched in the 1970s --- was exhaustively tested
and perfected.
“These South-South collaboration events are essential, and
we deeply thank the Ethiopian government for bringing
together key ministers to guide the continent's
public policies”, he added.
A joint statement by more than 25 participating African
members highlighted the critical role of employment-
intensive investment programs, and reaffirmed their
commitment to improving skills through technology,
as well as fostering strong alliances for their
effective implementation.
In this regard, Tsukamoto recognized the immense,
although often underutilized, potential of Africa.
She noted the large young African population, the dominance
of the informal sector, limited access to education and
training ---- as important challenges, particularly for
women and marginalized groups, including
people with disabilities.
“It is essential to include vulnerable populations, young people,
people with disabilities and other groups, providing them with
decent jobs that generate income and strengthen the local
economies”, he emphasized.
He specified that it would be aligning perfectly with the
objectives of the regional conference on employment,
as we explore ways to build resilient communities
across Africa.
Despite these challenges, he expressed optimism --- that the
meeting would contribute significantly to expanding decent
work opportunities across the continent.
He mentioned the urgent need for African countries to prioritize
employment-based investment and collaborate effectively to
leverage their human and material resources.
________________________________________
Ugandan Ambassador said that coffee
from the country will fill the shelves
of Russian stores
May 21st, 8:30pm
(RT.ru)
Ugandan coffee will appear in large volumes
in Russian stores, Ugandan Ambassador to
Russia Moses Kawaaluuko Kizige said.
He noted that the country is working on
expanding coffee supplies to Russia.
"We are talking about both green coffee beans and
roasted ones. By September-October of this year
....the volumes will increase significantly," TASS quoted him as saying.
Earlier, the Russian Foreign Ministry said that Moscow
is ready to support Burkina Faso in ensuring national
security and solving socio-economic problems.
Russian leader Vladimir Putin, during talks with the head
of Burkina Faso, Ibrahim Traore, announced a twofold
increase in the quota for students from the African
country in 2024-2025.
_____________________________________________
CubacelebratesAfrica Day
May 21st, 2:13pm
(Prensa Latina)
Representatives of Cuban institutions and members
of the diplomatic corps accredited in Havana, paid
tribute today, to African independence fighters,
in the context of the day for Africa Day.
The wreath placed in the capital's African Heroes Park
was remembered on May 25, 1963 when 32 leaders
of States from that continent met in Addis Ababa
to form the Organization of African Unity,
today, the African Union (UA).
At the ceremony, the ambassador of the Republic of
the Congo... and dean of the African Diplomatic
Group in Cuba, Rosalie Kama Niamayoua,
announced upcoming cultural & sports
activities, that will take place in the
Cuban capital, in the context of
the celebrations.
Authorities from the Communist Party of Cuba,
the Government, the Ministry of Foreign
Affairs, and the Cuban Institute of
Friendship with the Peoples...
also attended the activity.
The day of commemoration for Africa Day began
in Cuba on May 15 -- after its inauguration by
the president of the National Assembly of
People's Power (Parliament), Esteban
Lazo, in the National Capitol,
the HQ of the Legislature.
On that occasion, the president of the Council of
State also stressed that the most just causes in
Africa, always had the determined support of
Cuba, at the same time, he highlighted, the
unbreakable ties of brotherhood, and the
cooperation programs established in
various areas, with nations of
that continent.
He took the opportunity to reiterate the gratitude
of this Caribbean nation for the permanent
solidarity received from Africa.
___________________________
Trump insists --------- on
his false accusations
against South Africa
May 21st, 1:25pm
(Prensa Latina)
The president of the United States, Donald Trump,
repeated today -- without evidence -- before his
South African counterpart, Ciryl Ramaphosa,
- accusations of alleged genocide against
the white population in the southern
country, a statement his guest
completely rejected.
Trump received Ramaphosa at the White House this
Wednesday on a visit that captured interest given
the tension between both nations... since the
Republican returned to the Oval Office.
The US president alleged that «many people are very
concerned about South Africa» ....and made false
accusations about a genocide in the country.
«We collect refugees from many, many places, if we
perceive that there is persecution or genocide»,
said Trump, who counted Elon Musk among
those present, the tycoon and ally born in
South Africa.. who became a staunch
critic of his homeland.
The day before, the US Government expressed that
it was “open” ..that the meeting between Trump
and Ramaphosa would serve to restart the
bilateral relationship.
The disagreements between the two countries
escalated with the expulsion in March of the
then Pretoria ambassador in Washington,
Ebrahim Rasool, who was declared
persona ‘non grata’ ........after
criticizing Trump's policies.
In addition, ties deteriorated due to the United States'
reaction to a sovereign law in South Africa, passed
in parliament, regarding land expropriation.
Trump denounced that this law paves the way for
possible human rights violations against South
Africa's white Afrikaner minority, that is, the
descendants of Dutch colonizers who
arrived in the country from 1652.
That is why the Republican administration implemented
a program that will welcome Afrikaners who claim to
suffer “unjust racial discrimination” ---- which will
earn them refugee status in the United States.
On May 12, the Trump Administration received a group of
59 white South Africans who came under that category,
stating that they face discrimination and violence in
their country, which South Africa denies.
Ramaphosa rejected that nationals who traveled to the United States are refugees -- because they do not fit the description that they suffer political, religious or economic persecution.
Another dispute between the two countries has to do with the position of the United States towards Israel and against the Palestinian population, especially in the Gaza Strip. For his actions, Pretoria sued Israel - for genocide - at the International Criminal Court.
Ramaphosa arrived in the United States on Monday and his stay.. will end tomorrow. According to the South African Presidency -- both dignitaries will address «bilateral, regional and global issues of interest».
___________________________________________
Billions ---to be invested in
infrastructureannounced
in South Africa
May 21st, 12:31pm
(Prensa Latina)
South African Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana,
announced today that the Government will invest
in the medium term almost one billion rands 56
million dollars) in infrastructure projects.
This amount, he revealed during the presentation of
the third version of the National Budget before
Parliament, is dedicated to boosting the
prospects for economic growth --- and
improving access to basic services.
Increased investment in infrastructure, through Operation
Vulindela ----- will expand energy generation capacity,
modernize and expand the transportation network
and improve the sanitation and water services,
with the aim of stimulating public-private
collaborations, Godongwana said.
While South Africa's debt service costs remain high,
the Minister expressed confidence that by fiscal
year 2025/26, public debt will stabilize at
77.4% of GDP.
That figure, he said, is 1.2% higher than that
projected in the budget presented on March
12, and is mainly due to lower nominal GDP.
According to Godongwana, this represents that, for
fiscal year 2025/26, South Africa will spend around
R1.2 billion a day, servicing debt ($67 million).
This exceeds what the country spends on basic
services such as health, police and basic
education, Godongwana lamented.
____________________________________
Colombia and Kenya ----
reinforce collaboration
on feminist issues
May 21st, 11:59am
(Prensa Latina)
Colombia and Kenya today reinforce collaboration
on issues that make up the feminist agenda of
each of the countries as part of the
implementation of a project in
south-south Cooperation.
According to a statement from the Foreign Ministry,
a technical delegation from the African nation is
currently visiting this capital with the aim of
--- sharing and strengthening institutional
knowledge on prevention mechanisms,
attention to, and judicialization of,
gender-based violence.
As specified in the note - the Ministry of Foreign
Affairs of Colombia highlights implementation
of the bilateral initiative in order to improve
the socioeconomic conditions of women,
identifying opportunities to share legal
knowledge & strengthen regulatory
frameworks in both States.
This project is the result of the agreements
established after the official visit of the
Colombian vice president -- Francia
Márquez, to Nairobi in May 2023.
Regarding the meeting ---- the vice president
highlighted that the exchange experience
is a clear example of how --- from the
Global South --- strategic alliances
can be built that allow progress
in guaranteeing the rights of
women and girls.
“It is a commitment to equality, justice
and peace”, he stressed.
During the visit, both parties will talk, among
others, about issues associated with ethnic
justice models, criminal policy with a
gender focus.
The project between Colombia and Kenya
has two main objectives: institutional
strengthening in both countries to
confront gender-based violence
and the construction --- of a
document: recommending
improvements in access
mechanisms to justice
in Colombia.
It is expected to be an input for decision-
making by the competent authorities,
the Foreign Ministry statement said.
_______________________________________
Nigeria’s Food Crisis Deepens
----- as Climate Change and Policy Failures Take Toll
May 20th, 12:14pm
(teleSUR)
The once-thriving rivers of northern Nigeria now lie dry
and cracked, exposing the country’s deepening food
insecurity as climate change intensifies and
government solutions fall short.
Nigeria—Africa’s most populous nation—declared a food
security emergency in mid-2023, yet nearly a year later,
the crisis has worsened:
Food inflation -- exceeded 35% in 2024, doubling the
price of staple foods like rice, maize, and tomatoes.
Rivers in Sokoto and Zamfara that once sustained
irrigation now appear seasonal at best.
Erratic rainfall and prolonged drought threaten crops
and livestock, with dehydration worsening among
farming communities.
Dr. Fatima Garba, an agricultural economist, criticized
the lack of preparedness, stating: “Farmers don’t
have modern irrigation, drought-resistant seeds,
or access to real-time weather data. The tools
they need are stuck in research institutes or
policy documents.”
Faced with crop failures and declining incomes, young
Nigerians are abandoning agriculture in favour of:
Urban migration
Informal mining
Joining criminal networks out of desperation
Meanwhile, banditry and herder-farmer
conflicts force many to flee their land
entirely, escalating insecurity.
Despite the government’s 2023 emergency
declaration, food security initiatives have
suffered from corruption, bureaucracy,
and underfunding:
A Kebbi solar-powered irrigation project
ran out of funds halfway.
Resettlement programs in Borno stalled
due to budget constraints.
Private investment in agriculture remains low
due to insecurity and policy uncertainty.
International agencies such as the World Food
Programme and FAO warn that while Nigeria
isn’t classified as a famine zone yet, the
situation is rapidly deteriorating—with
undernourishment rising, especially
among children under five.
Observers see this crisis - as a test of Nigeria’s
political will, with 70% of the population under
30 and 40% of youth unemployed. Experts
advocate --- for strategic grain reserves,
climate-resilient farming, and modern
irrigation systems ------ but trust in
leadership.... is low.
For now, the rains remain late, the fields remain dry,
and millions of farmers wait, uncertain if their next
harvest will even come.
_________________________________
Climate forecasts ---vital to
mitigate droughts & floods
May 20th, 8:16am
(Prensa Latina)
Given the severe droughts and floods in the Horn of Africa,
accurate climate forecasts are essential to mitigate the
situation, protect the population and livelihoods, an
expert warned in an event that concludes
here today.
Ethiopian Water and Energy Minister Habtanu Itefa speaking at
the 70th Great Horn of Africa Climate Outlook Forum (Ghacof
70), he highlighted the vital role of the conclave in fostering
collaboration between scientists and policy makers.
Itefa specified that this year's Ghacof theme, «Climate services
to close the early warning gap», is particularly relevant given
the alarming concern about drought in the region.
He noted that key sectors such as agriculture, food security,
water resources, hydropower, tourism and health are
particularly vulnerable to adverse climate effects
such as droughts and floods.
He stressed the urgency of the forum ---- to provide accurate
scientific guidance to policy makers and ensure the timely
dissemination of crucial weather and climate information,
especially to vulnerable communities.
For his part, the director general of the Ethiopian Meteorological
Institute, Fetene Teshome, echoed these concerns and, for his
part, he emphasized the high susceptibility of the Great Horn
of Africa to climate-related risks.
Teshome explained that intensifying climate change and
seasonal disturbances are causing erratic rainfall,
prolonged dry periods and excessive rainfall,
which increases vulnerability --- and
significantly affects agriculture
and the economy.
«With increasing climate variability and climate change, the
role of climate information in minimizing risks and
optimizing opportunities is undeniable»,
he added.
The two-day forum, an annual meeting organized three times a
year by the Centre for Climate Predictions and Applications
of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, brings
together climate scientists, meteorologists, industry
experts and policy makers from across the region
and beyond.
The platform seeks to improve early warning systems for
climate change, floods and landslides - expected due to
rainfall, between normal and above normal, scheduled
between June and September 2025.
________________________________________
Giant puppet dance in Senegal
warns about climate collapse
May 20th, 7:31am
(Prensa Latina)
A parade of giant artists and puppets today invades the
Senegalese capital and other cities of this African
country with the purpose of raising awareness
among the general public through art about
the dangers of climate change.
This capital corresponds to the third stop on a 20 thousand
kilometre journey that began in Kinshasa, capital of the
Democratic Republic of the Congo (RDC), whose
route will end in August in the Arctic Circle.
Its objective is to raise awareness among the world's
population about the impact of climate change ----
through this theatrical and ecological odyssey.
The biggest show seen in this region is called “The Herds”,
an emotional theatre experience that travels the roads
of different urban centres around the world.
This project arises from the need ------ to create a new
interaction with the ecosystem; We want to inspire
climate action through participatory art and
renew our link with nature, stated the
artistic director of the initiative ----
Amir Nizar Zuabi, of Palestinian
origin and resident in London.
Before “The Herds” Nizar Zuabi created ''The Walk: Little
Amal's Journey'', a giant 3.6 metre high puppet of a
refugee girl - who began her journey on the border
between Syria and Turkey, ending in Manchester,
after traveling through 18 countries.
I am Palestinian, I belong to the town with one of the largest
refugee communities in the world, for me it was very
important to tell the story of Amal, reflected
the artist.
Most of the migrants and refugees I met along the way... are
climate expatriates. The people I met in southern Europe
came from the Sahel because they are fleeing because
of a climate issue; It is the region of the planet where
the climate has collapsed, and they are forced to
embark on endless routes to escape hunger,
explained the set designer.
After visiting the DRC and Nigeria, “The Herds” landed
in Senegal in May with four public shows that toured
different neighbourhoods of this capital.
We collaborate with different artistic collectives, with design,
theatre and performance schools to create the project and
adapt it to each location, adds Nizar Zuabi; here we have collaborated with more than 80 local artists in the
creation of giant puppets to raise awareness
among the population about the need to
act to save the planet, he added.
Life-size puppets of giraffes, wildebeest, elephants or
gorillas made of cardboard parade through the
streets of the Ouakam neighbourhood in
Dakar, an important stop on your
journey from the DRC
to Norway.
The climate crisis has a devastating impact on Africa,
here is the origin of all the disaster that threatens us,
said Nizar Zuabi.
________________________________________
''Islamist attacks'' cause human
displacement in Nigeria
May 20th, 7:01am
(Prensa Latina)
The increase in Islamist attacks in northeastern Nigeria
has already caused the displacement of some 20,000
people from the town of Marte, local media say.
According to the authorities, the recent invasions by
suspected militants of Boko Haram and its West
African faction, (Iswap), led to armed clashes
that have already left dozens dead.
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum reported the
deaths of 5 soldiers in a clash with Islamists last
week, after the attackers - briefly - seized a
military base.
According to the official, the nearby town of Rann and
the village of Kalawa Balge, where 23 farmers were
apparently killed, were also attacked.
The sources added that in the last 16 years, Islamists
displaced more than two million people and killed
thousands of civilians.
Likewise, local authorities point out that these attacks have
to do with the activities of Islamist groups... such as Boko
Haram, which collect taxes from fishermen and farmers,
and when they cannot pay, they are murdered or
kidnapped and then demand a ransom from
their relatives.
In northeastern Nigeria, several armed groups operate
and take advantage of the lack of security in the
region... for their profit.
Recently, 40 farmers and fishermen were killed in an
Islamist attack, also in Borno, according to reports.
Currently, the Nigerian army is carrying out armed
operations in that region to try to combat Islamist
groups, an objective that it has not been able to
achieve, so far.
____________________________________
Uruguay insists on replacing
its blue helmets in the DRC
May 19th, 11:53am
(Prensa Latina)
The Minister of Defense of Uruguay, Sandra Lazo, urged the
United Nations ---- to accelerate the replacement of the
country's contingent.. in the Democratic Republic of
the Congo (RDC), which stays delayed today.
Lazo urged the world body to assume its leadership in peace
missions to accelerate the return of the Uruguayan blue
helmet battalion, postponed for several months.
He explained his participation in a forum on blue helmet
missions recently held in Berlin and sponsored by the
United Nations, which included meetings with the
Rwandan Defense Minister, a regime involved
in the armed conflict in the DRC.
''All the steps we take are aimed at ensuring that whoever has to
make decisions, which is the international organization, truly
and effectively complies with that leadership. Let them
dialogue with whoever has to dialogue, but we need
to return our contingent'', he emphasized.
The head of Defense assured that the relief troops are “pronta”
to travel to the African country and fulfill their role which, she
said, “is not being a belligerent party”, but “safeguarding the
civilian population”.
Lazo spoke with the press ------ within the framework of the
celebrations for the 214th anniversary of the Battle of the
Stones, which mark an important victory commanded
by José Artigas --- against royalist troops.
As part of the commemoration, President Yamandú Orsi
presented the military medal Outstanding Valour to the
family of Rodolfo Álvarez -- a blue helmet who died on
January 25 in the Congo during an attack attributed
to the M23 rebel movement.
________________________________
Third Water Forum... of an African
regional entity meets in Ethiopia
May 19th, 10:51am
(Prensa Latina)
Strengthening regional efforts in groundwater governance
is the focus today ----- of the Third Water Forum of the
Intergovernmental Authority on Development
(IGAD) which is hosted by Ethiopia.
The three-day event under the theme “Building a Platform for
Sustainable Regional Cooperation in Groundwater” brings
together representatives of IGAD Member States,
international organizations, technical experts
and development partners.
On their first day... the discussions addressed key priorities:
harmonizing policies, engaging stakeholders at all levels,
strengthening institutions and aligning national efforts
with the African regional entity's Regional Ground-
water Roadmap.
With contributions... from the United Nations Educational,
Scientific and Cultural Organization, the United Nations
Economic Commission for Europe, the World Bank and
Member States, the session underlined the shared
commitment to transforming cooperation in this
area into a cornerstone of regional resilience
and sustainability.
Groundwater resources are crucial for the socioeconomic
development and environmental sustainability of the
Horn of Africa, the regional entity said.
With growing demand driven by climate variability, urbanization
and population growth, the management of shared resources
such as the Dawa, Shabelle and Northern Basin systems of
Ethiopia, it requires coordinated and innovative solutions
that transcend national borders.
The results of the forum, will contribute to IGAD's broader
commitment to integrated source management, climate
resilience and sustainable development in the region.
At least 109 people died, in the torrential rains that flooded
last Thursday and Friday in the town of Kasaba, in eastern
Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), a local civil
society leader confirmed on Saturday.
The village, located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika in
the territory of Fizi in South Kivu province, was hit by
heavy rainfall, accompanied by strong winds that
caused the Kasaba River to overflow.
According to South Kivu province government the provisional
death toll is 62 confirmed, an unknown number of people
missing, 150 houses destroyed.. or swept away, 30
people injured --- including children and women,
and numerous agricultural fields devastated.
South Kivu government also informed that many agricultural
fields have been destroyed, threatening the livelihoods of
families who have suffered a significant loss of property,
in addition to the interruption of school activities in
the disaster area.
“The provincial government remains concerned - about the
high risk of water-borne diseases, respiratory infections
and malnutrition --- especially during this period of
persistent rains; as a majority of those affected
are currently living in precarious conditions,
Homeless, with no access to clean water
or medical assistance,” the provincial
authorities stated.
The authorities also confirmed that an emergency assessment
team has already been sent to the disaster site -- through the
provincial Ministry of Health and Humanitarian Action, after
requesting a large-scale humanitarian response from the
competent national authorities.
South Kivu officials, also invited all humanitarian organizations
operating in the province to intervene urgently in the affected
area, and for the health services to prepare for a possible
health crisis.
___________________________________________
African Union ----- Congratulates Pope Leo XIV
and Looks Forward To Continue Collaborating
May 10th, 10:15am
(teleSUR)
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC),
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, congratulated Leo XIV on
Saturday on his election as the new pontiff of
the Catholic Church -- and expressed the
continental organization’s desire.. to
continue collaborating with the
Holy See.
In a brief statement issued by the AU, which is based in Addis
Ababa, Youssouf stated that he “sincerely congratulates
His Holiness Pope Leo XIV on his election.”
The head of the Commission (secretariat) expressed his “deep
hope to continue collaborating with the Holy See to promote
peace, justice and the dignity of all human beings on
our planet.”
The American Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, elected this
Thursday as Pope of the Catholic Church, was born in
Chicago 69 years ago, although he also obtained
Peruvian nationality in 2015 after spending a
large part of his religious life in the
Andean country.
Leo XIV, who becomes the 267th pontiff in history, was
elected on the second day of the conclave to succeed
Francis, the first Argentine pope, who died on April 21.
In addition several African leaders, including the presidents
of Tanzania, Burundi, Zambia and Kenya, congratulated US
Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost on his election as the new
Pope Leo XIV.
Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu congratulated the Prevost on
his election as the “leader of the Catholic Church” in the world.
“On behalf of the government and people of Tanzania, I wish
you all the best in your service to the Church and the world
at large,” she said on his account on the social network X.
The president of Burundi, Evariste Ndayishimiye, congratulated
him on his election as pontiff and expressed his wishes for
“success, happiness and longevity.”
For his part, the President of Zambia, Hakainde Hichilema, hoped
that his leadership would be “blessed with wisdom, compassion
and strength” to face the challenges of “these decisive times.”
The Kenyan leader hoped --- that Leo XIV would “firmly” defend
peace, justice and the “sanctity” of human dignity throughout
the world - wishing for Leo’s papacy “a bright light of love,
hope and compassion; that it help the poor, give voice to
those who do not have a voice, heal divisions, and
firmly defend peace, justice and the sanctity of
human dignity ------- throughout the world.”
___________________________________
Paramilitaries ---- Bomb a Prison in
Western Sudan and Kill 21 People
May 10th, 9:50am
(teleSUR)
At least a dozen people died this Saturday --- in the bombing
carried out by the paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces
(RSF) against a prison in Al Obeid, the capital of North
Kordofan state, in western Sudan, where more than
a dozen were injured, official sources reported.
Sudan Doctors Network informed that 21 people were killed and
47 injured - as a result of the Rapid Support Forces targeting, as
several local journalists saw the RSF march to Al-Obeid prison.
Among the dead are ten civilians and two police officers,
a local official from the state of North Kordofan told a
press agency, adding that “dozens were injured” as
a result of this attack “with drones from the RSF”
against the prison.
According to this source, the death toll is expected to rise, as
some are in critical condition and have been transferred to
various hospitals for treatment, making it difficult to
obtain accurate statistics.
The paramilitaries attacked Port Sudan, the temporary
administrative capital, in the east of the country for
the seventh consecutive day, although the army’s
anti-aircraft missiles intercepted the drones ---
and shot them down in the Red Sea.
He added that the Rapid Support Forces, attacked Port Sudan
with more than 55 drones in a week, and that the army’s anti-
aircraft weapons shot down more than 40 of them, while the
rest attacked fuel depots, power plants and military sites.
The attacks on Port Sudan, about 650 kilometres northeast of
Khartoum, come after the regular army managed to expel the
paramilitaries from most of the country’s capital at the end
of March, which they had occupied since the start of the
war in April 2023.
After several defeats in the central-eastern part of the country in
recent months, as well as in Khartoum, the paramilitaries have
intensified their drone attacks against vital civilian and
military installations in areas controlled by the army,
including power plants in the north and east of
the country.
[Rhondda Records adds:
It's not a civil war, or a fight between two egos.
It's more of the same --- ruining a Muslim state
that opposed the West and Israel.
Or are you too brainwashed by the
lack of clarity for so long, in the
''alternative media''?!!!?]
_____________________________
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 ofecological
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 highlightedComesa'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.
________________________________________
Irancondemns 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 outat 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
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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
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.
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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.