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Malian Islamists attack 
military convoy


November 3rd, 7:22am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


A new attack against a military convoy took place in the Gao 


region, east of Mali by a supposedly Islamist group affiliated 


with Al Qaeda in the Sahel, it was known here today from 


military sources.


 


In a statement from the Support Group for Islam and Muslims 


(Jnim) released the day before, by the African news portal 


LSI -- it is claimed that its members carried out the attack 


although it does not indicate the number of victims..... or 


damage. This Islamist faction has claimed responsibility 


for numerous attacks on fuel transportation around this 


capital in recent times, in the midst of its blockade 


policy ------- to try to hinder fuel supply routes to 


the country.


 


Meanwhile, to try to reverse the situation, the Malian army began 


escorting some truck convoys on the roads between Bamako 


and the borders with Senegal and Ivory Coast.


 


Mali also faces the coalition of Tuareg groups, known as Berbers, 


determined... to achieve the separation of the northern region 


from the rest of the country to create an independent state.


 


Nation of the Sahel, Mali lives mired in a deep political crisis, 


which has increased -- after successive coups d'état that 


occurred in August 2020 and May 2021, and it is also 


affected by continuous attacks ------ by armed 


Islamist groups.


 


 


____________________________________________


 


 


 


President of the DRC in Qatar for 


summit on social development


November 3rd, 5:55am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), 


Félix Tshisekedi, is today in Doha, Qatar, to participate in the 


2nd World Summit on Social Development, from November 


4 to 6.


 


The president -- must speak at the event, organized by the United 


Nations, to address the serious humanitarian and security crisis 


caused by “Rwanda's predatory war” and its allies in the Congo


 River Alliance-March 23 Movement (AFC/M23), indicated the 


Congolese Presidency.


 


During his stay...... the DRC president also thanked the Qatari 


monarchy for its mediation efforts in this conflict, and on his 


agenda he plans to meet with country officials to discuss 


bilateral relations, in particular, agreements for the 


construction of the deep-water port of Banana.


 


Tshisekedi arrived in Doha the day before to lead the DRC 


delegation to the summit, which brings together heads 


of state and government...... political leaders and 


representatives of humanitarian organizations 


to debate how to combat poverty, inequality 


and social exclusion.


 


The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, is 


also part of the delegation, and this Sunday she was received 


by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of Qatar, 


Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi.


 


Both officials discussed strengthening bilateral cooperation and 


recent events in the Great Lakes region, against which ---- the 


Qatari reaffirmed his country's commitment to supporting 


peace efforts in eastern DRC.


 


On Sunday, President Tshisekedi spoke with the US president's 


advisor for Africa, Massad Boulos, who described the meeting 


as excellent.


 


“We turn commitments ------ into concrete actions to achieve peace 


and prosperity in the DRC”, the American said on social network X 


and added ---- that Kinshasa is charting a new course through the 


implementation of the Washington Peace Agreement ---- and the 


advancement of the Doha road.


 


He assured that the DRC will continue to attract greater
US investment in transparent mineral supply chains 


and infrastructure... that expand opportunities 


and generates tangible benefits - for the 


Congolese people.


 


Boulos also spoke with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Rwanda, 


Olivier Nduhungirehe, with whom he discussed the progress 


made within the framework of the Washington Peace 


Agreement, including the implementation of 


the Concept of Operations.


 


The American expressed confidence in Rwandan President Paul 


Kagame's commitment to peace, and signified the chancellor's 


talks on the Regional Economic Integration Framework, 


which should contribute --- in his opinion --- to the


strengthening of peace and stability.


 


Clashes continue on the ground between Congolese government 


forces and their allies, with AFC/M23 rebels supported by Kigali.


 


 


__________________________________________


 


 


 


Samia Suluhu Hassan, was sworn 


in ...as the president of Tanzania


November 3rd, 5:27am


(Latin Press) 


 


The president of Tanzania, Samia Suluhu Hassan, took office 


today after triumphing in the elections on the 29th, which


were accused of being fraudulent by the opposition.


 


According to the Independent National Electoral Commission, 


the president was declared the winner this Saturday with 


97.66% of the votes, in elections where the two main 


opposition candidates were excluded.


 


The current president, Samia Suluhu Hassan, was re-elected 


by the ruling party, the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), which 


has led the country since its independence in 1961, 


against a total of 17 other parties' candidates. 


 


Samia took office, after the death of her predecessor John 


Magufuli in 2021 and ran for the first time as a candidate


 in a presidential election.


 


According to analysts ---- Samia had a good chance of achieving a 


victory, after the National Electoral Commission disqualified the 


candidate of the main opposition party in the country, the 


Alliance for Change and Transparency (ACT).


 


The Commission ruled that ACT candidate Luhaga Mpina be 


disqualified over alleged complaints --- that his party had


failed to comply with primary nomination procedures.


 


Another opposition leader, Tundu Lissu of the Chadema party, 


was arrested four months ago on charges of alleged treason, 


charges he strongly denied.


 


Both parties rejected the election results.


 


Meanwhile, President Hassan described her victory 


as a collective victory for Tanzanians and a test 


of democracy for the nation.


 






________________________________________






West's political, economic ties with UAE 


fuel silence on..... genocide in Sudan: 


Analyst


October 31st, 8:26pm


by Press TV Website Staff


 


The silence of the international community over the genocide


 in Sudan stems from a combination of political convenience, 


economic interests, and moral hypocrisy, says an analyst.


 


In an interview with the Press TV website, Kribsoo Diallo, a 


commentator on African affairs based in Cairo, said many 


Western governments maintain deep alliances with the 


United Arab Emirates (UAE), which they see -- as a 


"vital trade partner, investor, and security ally."


 


"Condemning or sanctioning it would threaten lucrative arms 


deals, energy cooperation, and intelligence ties, so silence 


becomes easier than confrontation," he noted.


 


Mass killings by the so-called Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a militia 


group backed by the UAE, Israel, and some Western governments, 


have been reported in El Fasher in recent weeks as the war that 


started in April 2023 ------- takes an ugly turn.


 


According to UN officials, the Sudanese city has "descended 


into an even darker hell" following the militia group’s violent 


takeover last week.


 


Some reports say over 2,000 people were killed in about 48 hours, 


and tens of thousands were displaced as RSF militants attacked 


Sudanese armed forces and civilians.


 


While the UAE has been held directly responsible, for the ongoing 


genocide in the African country, its close ally Israel and Western 


countries, including the UK, France, Canada, and the US, have 


provided arms and logistical support to the militants.


 


UAE's interests in Sudan 'multifaceted'


 


Diallo, who has closely followed the events in Sudan over the past


 few years, said the UAE’s interests in Sudan are "multifaceted," 


encompassing both economic and geopolitical dimensions.


 


"Sudan possesses vast reserves of gold, minerals, and agricultural 


potential. It is believed that the UAE --- seeks privileged and 


preferential access to these resources or their revenues. 


For instance, according to reports, the UAE practically


 receives most of Sudan’s gold exports, which makes 


Sudan’s economy vulnerable to Emirati influence," 


he told the Press TV website.


 


"To clarify, gold exports refer to the extraction and transfer of 


Sudanese gold abroad, while preferential access means the 


UAE may benefit from political or economic leverage that 


allows it to obtain these resources ------- under 'more 


favorable' terms."


 


The Cairo-based African affairs analyst said Sudan also has a 


coastline along the Red Sea and a major port in Port Sudan, 


as well as a proposed project in Abu Amama, an economic 


zone and port that the UAE had planned to develop.


 


"This location is significant for the UAE ----- as part of its effort to 


expand influence across the Red Sea, maritime trade networks, 


and access routes, positioning Sudan as a gateway to Africa 


and an extension of Emirati commercial & naval presence," 


he noted.


 


Diallo also referred to --- "regional balance and Persian Gulf 


dominance," saying that, with the ongoing rivalry among 


Persian Gulf states and other regional powers, the UAE 


aims to assert itself as a major player in the Horn of 


Africa, the Red Sea, and the Gulf of Aden.


 


"Sudan’s strategic location ---- makes it a key arena in this 


competition. Regional rivalry here refers to the struggle 


among states for political and economic influence, not 


necessarily open warfare, but through policies, 


investments, and alliances," he told the


 Press TV website.


 


Sudan genocide and Western complicity


 


The ongoing genocide in Sudan, while orchestrated by the UAE, 


is being executed by RSF militants using US, UK, French, and 


Canadian weapons, according to observers --- citing piles 


of evidence.


 


And, like the genocide in Gaza, Sudan's crisis 


has failed to awaken the world's conscience.


 


Diallo said the legacy of the so-called “war on terror” also plays


 a role in the ongoing Sudan crisis. The UAE, he noted, has 


successfully branded itself as a "stabilizing force and a 


counterterrorism partner," which gives it political 


immunity .....even when it fuels proxy wars 


and supports repressive actors.


 


"Another factor -- is the hierarchy of global empathy. The suffering


 of Black Africans rarely receives the same attention as conflicts


 in Europe or West Asia. The genocide in Sudan does not fit into 


the media or strategic 'priorities' of the West, so it remains 


neglected," he told the Press TV website.


 


There is also ------ "complicity through the 


arms trade," said the analyst and author.


 


"The RSF’s weapons are largely American, British, French, and 


Canadian. Acknowledging the genocide would mean admitting 


that these governments through their industries, are indirectly 


arming and enabling mass murder," he stated, adding that the 


silence is "not due to ignorance" ----- but a "deliberate act of 


preservation of profit, alliances, and geopolitical control."


 


African Union and Sudan genocide


 


African Union Commission chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf 


on Wednesday condemned what he called “alleged war 


crimes” in El Fasher, but ---- the role of the African 


alliance has also been questioned.


 


Diallo said the African Union’s response to the ongoing genocide 


in Sudan --- particularly in El Fasher, has been "largely symbolic 


and diplomatically cautious, rather than concrete or effective."


 


"Mahmoud Ali Youssouf’s condemnation fits into a familiar pattern 


of statements that express deep concern ---- but avoid any real 


intervention or accountability mechanisms. In theory, the AU 


possesses the legal and institutional tools to act, including 


the Peace and Security Council - and the African Standby 


Force, yet these mechanisms remain inactive due to 


political fragmentation, lack of funding, and the


 influence of powerful member states that 


prioritize sovereignty over justice," 


he said.


 


The African affairs analyst noted ------ that many African leaders 


hesitate to confront Sudan’s warring factions because several 


of their own regimes face similar accusations of repression 


and human rights abuses, and.... taking a firm stance on 


Sudan would invite scrutiny of their own actions.


 


He added that there is also a dependence on Persian Gulf and 


Western funding that undermines the AU’s autonomy, as the 


UAE, Saudi Arabia, and the EU ---------- all provide substantial 


financial support, which limits its willingness to challenge 


those fueling the war.


 


"In short, beyond condemnations and appeals for dialogue, the 


African Union has done little to protect Sudanese civilians. Its 


inaction exposes a deeper crisis of legitimacy - an institution 


built to defend African lives ----- now seems paralyzed.... by 


political caution and external dependence," Diallo stated.


 


Grim situation ----- bleak future?


 


The situation looks grim in El Fasher, with thousands killed in 


recent days and hundreds of thousands displaced. On what 


lies ahead, the analyst said the fall of El Fasher marks a 


"turning point" in Sudan’s war, one that could push the 


country deeper into fragmentation and humanitarian 


catastrophe.


 


"In the coming weeks, we are likely to see 


three overlapping developments," he said.


 


"First, the RSF will attempt to consolidate control over Darfur 


and formalize its de facto rule. This may involve appointing 


local administrators, controlling trade routes, & tightening 


its grip on gold-mining areas. Such a move will effectively 


divide Sudan into two competing authorities — the army


-controlled east and centre, and the RSF-dominated 


west," he told the Press TV website.


 


"Second, the humanitarian situation will deteriorate rapidly. 


With El Fasher destroyed and aid convoys unable to reach 


those trapped inside or displaced to Chad ----  famine and 


disease could kill more civilians, than the fighting itself. 


The RSF’s record in Darfur: marked by ethnic cleansing 


& systematic violence suggests that more massacres 


could follow -------- especially against non-Arab 


communities seen as loyal to the army.


 


"Third, the regional and international response will remain weak. 


The UAE may continue to back the RSF indirectly. The African 


Union and UN will likely issue more statements, but without 


enforcement power or political will, their words will do 


little to change the balance of power."


 


Diallo said the African country is entering a darker phase 


of the war, one defined by... "territorial fragmentation, 


humanitarian collapse, and foreign manipulation."


 


"Unless a decisive international effort is made to cut off 


external funding and force negotiations, the war could 


evolve into a long-term partition reminiscent of Libya 


or Somalia," he warned.






 

Dakar 2026 presents Ayo, 

the official mascot of 

youth Olympians

October 31st, 12:59pm

(Prensa Latina) 

 

Exactly one year until the opening of the Dakar 2026 

Youth Olympic Games, its Organizing Committee

 today presented Ayo as the official mascot 

of the great sporting occasion.

 

The young lion represents the values of the multi-sport 

event, agreed from October 31 to November 13, 2026, 

and highlights the cultural heritage of Senegal as 

the host country.

 

According to what was disclosed, its name means joy in 

Yoruba, a language widely spoken in West Africa, and

 reflects the spirit of celebration and unity

 typical of the Games.

 

Ayo wears a traditional Fulani Tingandé hat, 

which represents wisdom, dignity.... and 

connection to rural life.

 

The special ceremony at the Grand Théâtre in Dakar was

 attended by the nation's president, Bassirou Diomaye 

Faye, and the head of the International Olympic 

Committee (IOC), Kirsty Coventry; as well
as members of the Dakar 2026 

Organizing Committee.

 

In Coventry's words, “these Games represent a lot to Africa;

 they will inspire the next generation and open up a world 

of opportunity across our continent - and beyond”.

 

The mascot was chosen.... through a national competition 

organized by the Organizing Committee in collaboration 

with the Ministry of National Education.

 

In the context of the celebrations of «One year for the Olympic 

Games» between November 4 and 9, the fourth and final 

edition of Dakar will take place in Jeux, the annual 

culture and sports festival - that constitutes a 

central element of the youth competition 

participation program.

 

The Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games will bring together 

2,700 of the best young athletes in the world, up to 17 

years old, in three venues in Senegal: Dakar, 

Diamniadio and Saly.

 

 

__________________________________________

 

 

 

UK........ temporarily withdraws 

staff from its embassy in Mali

October 31st, 12:11pm

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The UK Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported today 

by statement, on the temporary revocation of 

its embassy support staff in Mali.

 

The British Foreign Ministry maintains recommendations 

for citizens to refrain from any type of travel around the 

country and to leave their territory...... due to the

 insecurity situation, according to the text.

 

According to the Support Group for Islam and Muslims, the 

blockade is a retaliatory measure for the ban, imposed by 

the Malian authorities, to sell fuel outside the stations in 

rural areas, where the fuel was transported in drums

 for later marketing.

 

Since 2012, Mali has faced a deep security crisis, fueled 

above all by violence by groups affiliated with Al Qaeda 

and the Islamic State, as well as community criminal 

groups. This situation adds to an economic crisis, 

now aggravated by the blockade.

 

 

__________________________________

 

 

 

South Africa celebrates departure 

from financial watchdog gray list

October 31st, 11:47am

 (Prensa Latina) 

 

The South African government today celebrated the country's 

removal from the gray list of the Financial Action Task Force 

(FATF), after successfully completing the 22 actions

 required to strengthen its financial system.

 

The decision - adopted after an on-site assessment carried out 

in July, confirms that the reforms implemented against money

 laundering & terrorist financing are effective & sustainable, 

ending two years of enhanced surveillance.

 

In an official statement --- the Executive praised the coordinated 

work of the interdepartmental team .....made up of the National 

Treasury, the State Security Agency, the National Prosecutor's 

Office and the Directorate of Investigation of Priority Crimes.

 

The gray list exit demonstrates South Africa's commitment to 

the rule of law, institutional strengthening and improving 

governance and law enforcement processes, the 

statement noted.

 

The measure is expected to increase business confidence, 

reduce the cost of borrowing, contribute to economic 

integrity... and boost investment and job creation, 

in addition to facilitating lawful cross-border

 financial transactions.

 

The FATF, an intergovernmental organization that sets global 

standards against money laundering and terrorist financing, 

requires countries that leave the gray list to maintain their 

commitment through measurable results.

 

South Africa will need to demonstrate progress in investigations, 

prosecutions and sanctions related to anti-money laundering 

and counter-terrorism financing during the next FATF 

Mutual Assessment, scheduled to begin in the first

 half of 2026 and conclude in October 2027.

 

For the cabinet, the exclusion from the list --- reinforces the 

international reputation of the African nation as a reliable 

and compliant actor within the global financial system, 

concluded the Cabinet meeting in Cape Town.

 

 

__________________________________________

 

 

 

Malian Army bombs camps

 of alleged Islamists

October 31st, 11:04am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The Malian Army reported today that its troops bombed two 

alleged Islamist positions in the north of the country, given 

the continuous attacks by these factions against the fuel 

supply caravans.

 

According to military sources, the day before a still 

undetermined number of Islamists died, in a 

bombing carried out in the Gao region, to 

the north, in the midst of its operations 

against these groups..... due to the 

increase in insecurity.

 

Likewise, the military announced in a statement published

 on its account on the social network Facebook that the 

attacks occurred in the towns of Doro, to the north --

and in Inarabane and Akaba, in the Ménaka region, 

to the northeast, almost bordering Niger.

 

For its part.... the so-called Support Group for Islam and Muslims 

(Jnim), affiliate of Al Qaeda in the Sahel, claimed responsibility 

for a latest attack on fuel transportation in the surroundings 

of this capital, in the midst of its blockade policy - to try to 

hinder fuel supply routes to the country.

 

Meanwhile, to try to reverse the situation, the Malian army 

.....began escorting some truck convoys on the roads 

between Bamako and the borders with Senegal 

and Ivory Coast.

 

Mali also faces the coalition of Tuareg groups, known as 

Berbers, determined to achieve the separation of the 

northern region from the rest of the country, to 

create an independent state.

 

Nation of the Sahel, Mali lives mired in a deep political crisis, 

which has increased after successive coups d'état that 

occurred in August 2020 and May 2021, and it is also 

affected by continuous attacks by armed 

Islamist groups.

 

 

____________________________________________

 

 

 

South Africa rejects US program

 for...... Afrikaner ''refugees''

October 31st, 10:57am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The South African government today described as “worrying 

and factually inaccurate” the refugee program established 

by the US - for Afrikaner South Africans.

 

In an official statement - when responding to President Donald 

Trump's decision to set a quota of 7,500 places for that group, 

the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation 

(DIRCO) stressed that the US initiative is based on 

the discredited theory... of a “white genocide”

in South Africa, lacking reliable evidence 

and openly rejected by prominent 

members of the Afrikaner 

community itself.

 

The Foreign Ministry emphasized ----- that while the national 

Constitution guarantees the right of any citizen to emigrate 

through legal channels, there is a critical difference 

between voluntary migration and refugee status, 

the confusion of which has significant legal 

consequences for individuals and 

undermines international 

protection systems.

 

“A program --- designed to facilitate your immigration and 

resettlement as refugees, is fundamentally flawed. The

limited acceptance of this offer by South Africans is a 

telling indicator of this reality”, the Ministry said.

 

In the text, DIRCO recalled that South Africa values its strategic 

partnership with the US and stays committed to collaborating 

on issues of mutual concern - through dialogue and shared 

respect for international law and national sovereignty.

 

The government response comes after the Trump administration 

released a document the day before that would keep the U.S. 

refugee system largely closed in 2026 to millions of people

 fleeing conditions unsafe in the world, except for that

 specific program.... for Afrikaners.

 

 

_____________________________________



The death toll in El Fasher, Sudan, 

---------- has reached about 2,000

October 30th, 11:45pm

(Izvestia.ru)

 

In Sudan's El Fasher, the death toll after the city was captured 

by rebels from the Rapid Response Force (RRF) reached 

around 2,000, according to the newspaper Akhbar 

al-Asr on October 30.

 

The Yale University Humanitarian Research Laboratory 

confirmed mass killings in Al-Fashir, using satellite

 images and videos... describing the situation as 

potentially equivalent to an ethnic cleansing.

 

"In two days, the militants killed about 2,000 people, 

most of whom were women, children, and the 

elderly," local medical organizations said.

 

At the same time, the Sudanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs 

demanded -- that two senior officials of the World Food 

Programme (WFP) leave the country within 72 hours.

 

Earlier, on October 29, it was reported that more than 460 

people were killed ------ as a result of the assault on the 

maternity hospital in El Fasher by the SBR militants. 

 

The conflict between the SBR - backed clandestinely by the 

West, under the command of General Mohammed Hamdan 

Dagalo, and the Sudanese army, has been ongoing since 

April 2023 and during this time, according to the WHO, 

there have been 185 attacks on medical facilities, 

which have resulted in the deaths of more than 

1,200 people.

 

 

_______________________________________________







DRC Armed Forces --- accuse 

rebels of violating ceasefire

October 30th, 1:52pm

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo

accused the Congo River Alliance-March 23 Movement 

(AFC/M23) of violating the ceasefire and reaffirmed 

the defense of the national territory under 

any circumstances.

 

Through a statement released today by the Congolese press, 

the Ministry of National Defense and Veterans Affairs 

blamed the rebels, with the help of Rwanda, for

 attacking several of their positions ------ and 

boycotting the ongoing peace processes.

 

Army spokesman Major General Sylvain Ekenge stated when 

reading the note -- that the AFC/accusations/M23 of attacks 

by the Armed Forces against insurgent positions are false, 

and said that the rebels themselves, are responsible.

 

He added that instead of being the target of Army operations, 

what has occurred is a reinforcement of the rebel coalition 

forces, both in personnel and equipment, coming from 

Kigali, as well as repeated attacks against the 

positions of forces loyal to Kinshasa.

 

The AFC/M23, since the Permanent Ceasefire Monitoring 

Mechanism and Report Verification was agreed on 

October 14, has reported on several occasions 

bombings and attacks by the Congolese 

Armed Forces and their allies, in 

the province of North Kivu.

 

The media have also reported these attacks, mainly carried 

out by the militias called Wazalendo, but with the use of 

heavy weapons and drones.

 

These accusations, however, were refuted in the statement, 

where they also pointed out that the population living in 

the areas occupied by the AFC/M23 suffers serious 

atrocities and human rights violations --- and is 

often used as a human shield by the rebels.

 

“The government of the Republic has the sacred duty 

to protect its population and cannot, under any 

circumstances, subject it to further suffering”, 

he stated and added that the main concern 

continues to be --- the restoration of the

 integrity of the national territory.

 

“The Armed Forces of the Republic remain mobilized, 

disciplined - and committed to defending territorial 

integrity, the protection of the civilian population 

and the restoration of peace --- in all occupied 

areas”, the text noted.

 

 

________________________________

 

 

New protests ---- after 

elections in Tanzania

October 30th, 1:18pm

(Prensa Latina) 

 

New anti-government demonstrations took place today in 

Tanzania, after the elections the day before, which 

caused a curfew, the deployment of the Army 

and a cut in Internet access in several 

cities in the country.

 

After the announcement, through state television, that the 

president, Samia Suluhu Hassan, had an advantage in 

counted votes, hundreds of protesters took to the 

streets for a second day of demonstrations in 

these controversial elections.

 

Attendance at schools this Wednesday was considered low, 

and in the afternoon, protesters set fire to a bus, attacked 

police stations and stormed voting centres, especially 

in the city of Dar es Salaam, considered the 

economic capital of the country.

 

On this day, the demonstrations appeared again -- despite the 

curfew - and cities such as Dar es Salaam, Arusha or Mbeya 

woke up with violent clashes and the streets blocked, 

according to local media.

 

The current president, Samia Suluhu Hassan ---- is seeking 

re-election for the ruling party - the Chama Cha Mapinduzi 

(CCM), which has led the country since its independence

in 1961,against a total of 17 other assorted parties.

 

Samia took office after the death of her predecessor John 

Magufuli in 2021 and ran for the first time as a candidate 

in a presidential election.

 

According to analysts, Samia has a good chance of achieving  

victory, after the National Electoral Commission disqualified 

the candidate of the main opposition party currently in the 

country, the Alliance for Change and Transparency (ACT).

 

The Commission ruled that ACT candidate Luhaga Mpina 

be disqualified --- over alleged complaints that his party 

failed to comply with primary nomination procedures.

 

Mpina is a former member of the CCM and the Government, 

whom he recently left --------- to join the opposition.

 

Local media highlight that this opens the way.... for the CCM 

candidate, Samia Suluhu, since the main opposition leader, 

Tundu Lissu, of the Chadema party, was arrested four

months ago on charges of alleged treason, charges 

he flatly denied.

 

 

__________________________________________________

 

 

 

DRC and Angola -- prepare 

economic forum for 2026

October 30th, 11:06am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The Governments of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and 

Angola are preparing today the third bilateral Economic Forum, 

scheduled for February 2026 in Muanda, kongo Central 

Province, western Congo.

 

The meeting, whose objective ------- is to strengthen bilateral 

cooperation and promote trade between both neighbouring 

countries, will address issues such as the elimination of 

barriers to formal trade, Radio Okapi said.

 

A Congolese delegation, led by the deputy prime minister and 

the head of the National Economy, Daniel Mukoko Samba, 

traveled this week to Luanda -- where they met with 

several members of the Angolan Government -- as

did those responsible for the Planning portfolios, 

Víctor Hugo Guilherme, and for Industry and

 Commerce, Víctor Fernandes.

 

They also held preparation exchanges for next year's meeting 

with the Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Carmen 

Sacramento Neto, taking into account that this is a sector 

prioritized by the country and where it is expected to 

increase imports to the DRC

 

The delegation also spoke with the Minister of State for 

Economic Coordination, José de Lima Massano, in 

which they advocated taking advantage of 

the shared economic potential -- and 

revitalizing trade.

 

The High Representative of the Congolese head of state, 

Tony Kanku, was among the members of the delegation, 

which also worked ---- to revitalize the alliance with the 

Angolan state oil company, Sonangol.

 

 

__________________________________________________

 


 

South Africa and Switzerland 

---- strengthen economic ties

October 30th, 10:52am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, and his Swiss 

counterpart Karin Keller-Sutter, said bilateral economic 

relations were strengthened here today during a 

working breakfast with business leaders.

 

The meeting, described as unprecedented - for its innovative 

format (on a train trip) - featured representatives from major 

Swiss industries and focused on cooperation opportunities 

in industrial modernization, life sciences, logistics, 

financial services and skills development.

 

During the meeting, Ramaphosa expressed his appreciation for

 the opportunity to interact directly with Swiss businessmen 

during the second day of his state visit, highlighting the 

extended level of discussions and exposure to the 

business community ---- in the presence of the 

president and other government officials.

 

“Some of you are already invested in South Africa and we are 

here to appeal for you to invest even more. So don't think 

that this is a free train trip, we want more investments”, 

said the South African president ---- in a jovial, but 

serious tone.

 

Keller-Sutter, for his part, described the meeting as a 

continuation of the productive commitments that 

have characterized the state visit, underscoring 

the fine relationship.... between both nations.

 

The Swiss president recalled the signing of several 

memoranda of understanding during the previous 

day to deepen bilateral cooperation in various 

fields, pointing out the representation of 

top-level Swiss companies at the 

railway meeting.

 

According to South African analysts, President Ramaphosa's 

current state visit to Switzerland represents a significant 

milestone in bilateral relations, laying the foundation

 for expanded economic cooperation that benefits 

both nations.

 

 

___________________________________________________

 


 

South Africa: promotes solidarity and 

development agenda ------ at the G20

October 30th, 10:40am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

South Africa uses its pro tempore presidency of the G20 ---- to 

place Africa's experiences at the centre of global discourse 

and contribute significantly to international dialogue.

 

As stated today by Deputy Minister of the Presidency Kenny 

Morolong in a G20 Social Dialogue taking place in the local 

community of Frankfort, in the central province of the Free 

State, that role is crucial for his country, Africa and the 

developing world --- home to the majority of the poor 

and rural communities.

 

On this occasion, the senior official recalled how the South 

African presidency not only seeks global visibility, but also 

aligns the international cooperation agenda --- with 

community priorities, actively working to reduce

 inequalities between rural and urban areas, 

rich and poor, and digitally connected 

and unconnected people.

 

Among the priority areas, he highlighted the transformation 

of the digital economy, where internet access should be 

treated as a basic right, not as a luxury, as it is a 

gateway to education, employment 

and innovation.

 

Under the G20 Digital Economy Working Group, South Africa 

advocates for universal broadband access, digital skills 

development and inclusive data policies, along with 

investments in digital public infrastructure for 

efficient and secure government services.

 

Equally crucial is a commitment to artificial intelligence and 

data governance that works in the public interest, with 

ethical standards that prevent bias in algorithms, 

protect privacy and ensure that African data 

develops tools that reflect their realities 

and languages.

 

South Africa assumed the presidency of the G20 on December 1, 

2024, marking the start of the fourth consecutive presidency of 

the Global South, the first by an African state and the second

 year of full membership of the African Union in the group.

 

The upcoming G20 Summit will be held on November 22 and 

23 in Johannesburg under the theme «Solidarity, Equality,
Sustainability», which reflects national values and the 

South African historical journey.

 

 

_________________________________________________


 



General elections are 


passing calmly in 


Tanzania


October 29th, 1:01pm


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The polling stations opened today in Tanzania for the elections 


to elect the future president of the nation, on a day where 


calm prevailed throughout this African country.


 


The elections will decide the president, members of Parliament


 and representatives of local councils, for a five-year term.


 


However, political observers this Wednesday highlight the 


concerns of human rights groups about the arrest of 


important opposition figures, candidates for the 


first magistracy, before the votes.


 


Meanwhile, the current president, Samia Suluhu Hassan, is 


seeking re-election for the ruling party, the Chama Cha 


Mapinduzi (CCM), which has led the country since its 


independence in 1961, compared to a total of 


17 parties that presented candidates.


 


Samia took office after the death of his predecessor John 


Magufuli in 2021 and for the first time will run as a 


candidate in a presidential election.


 


The CCM spokespersons pointed out that their candidacy is 


due to the need to maintain unity to ensure the victory of 


the party and serve the citizens again.


 


According to analysts, Samia has a good chance of achieving a 


victory, after the National Electoral Commission disqualified 


the candidate of the main opposition party currently in the 


country, the Alliance for Change and Transparency (ACT).


 


The Commission ruled that the ACT candidate Luhaga Mpina 


be disqualified -------- over alleged complaints that his party 


had failed to comply with primary nomination procedures.


 


Mpina is a former member of the CCM and the Government, 


whom he recently left ....and joined the opposition.


 


Local media highlight --- that this opens the way for the CCM 


candidate, Samia Suluhu - since the main opposition leader, 


Tundu Lissu, of the Chadema party was arrested 4 months 


ago on charges of alleged treason, charges which he 


flatly denied.


 


 


______________________________________________


 



 


Namibia condemns US blockade 


of Cuba at the UN and calls for 


its end


October 29th, 12:53pm


 (Prensa Latina) 


 


Namibia demanded today in the UN General Assembly -- the 


immediate end of the economic, commercial and financial 


blockade imposed by the United States against Cuba.


 


By intervening before the vote on the resolution presented 


by Cuba against the measure, Namibia reaffirmed its vote


 in support of ending the blockade - and called on other 


member states to do the same, in solidarity with the 


Cuban people


 


The African country described the siege, in force for 66 years, 


as «inhuman and unilateral», violating international law and 


the Charter of the United Nations, that seeks to develop 


friendly relations - based on respect for equal rights 


and the self-determination of peoples.


 


In its speech, the Namibian delegation highlighted how Cuba 


brought peace to Namibia by fighting side by side with its 


people during the fight for independence, also hosting 


numerous refugees and subsequently contributing 


to national reconstruction.


 


He stressed that, however.... the right to development of the 


Cuban people continues to be undermined by the unilateral 


coercive measures imposed by the United States, severely 


affecting Cuba's import of food, essential equipment 


and materials.


 


In this context, the representative of Namibia recognized 


the resilience of the Cuban people and their enormous 


contributions to the well-being of millions of people


 in the world through their solidarity in cases of 


natural disasters.... its scientific-technical 


advances, its training of professionals 


-- and sending medical collaborators 


to numerous nations.


 


Likewise, the African representative cited the words of 


former US President Barack Obama in his State of the 


Union address of January 20, 2015, when he urged


 the lifting of the blockade (-- which Washington 


presents as an ''embargo'') considering it 


an obsolete policy ----- that had not 


worked...... for 50 years.


 


He regretted that, on the contrary, since June 2017 the US 


government has intensified measures against the island, 


emphasizing that the blockade hinders international 


cooperation --- and thus Namibia's --- with Cuba.


 


Finally, Namibia called on the UN Secretary General to use his 


good offices to facilitate dialogue between both countries, in 


the hope of eliminating restrictions that affect generations 


of Cubans.


 


In the subsequent vote, the Cuban resolution was approved 


in the plenary session of the UN General Assembly by 165 


nations, with 7 votes against and 12 abstentions, in the 


midst of great pressure and international blackmail 


carried out by Donald Trump's administration ---- 


against Cuba's proposal.


 


 


____________________________________________


 


 


 


South Africa ---------- will hold a debate 


within the G20 on local communities


October 29th, 11:45am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The South African government will carry out an outreach 


program tomorrow, the 30th, within the framework of 


the G20 --- aimed at the population, as part of its 


presidency of the group ------ the Ministry of 


International Relations and Cooperation


 reported today.


 


The activity, organized together with the University of
South Africa and the Municipality of Rustenburg, will
take place under the theme “Inclusive economic
growth ---- and a just transition..... for
sustainable development”.


 


In accordance with a ministerial statement to this end,
the pro tempore South African presidency of the G20,
exercised under the motto “Solidarity, Equality,
Sustainability”, represents a crucial moment
to shape global dialogues and promote
inclusive growth, peace...... and
sustainable development.


 


As the first African country ----- to host the G20 Leaders
Summit, South Africa seeks to amplify the continent's
voice..... in discussions on global governance and
economic reform.


 


The meeting is part of national efforts to “bring the G20 to
the people”, guaranteeing that communities, companies,
academics and civil society actively participate in
conversations about how global economic
decisions --- can be translated into
tangible local benefits,
the text adds.


 


The debate will focus on inclusive growth and “just
transition”, particularly in sectors such as mining,
agriculture and tourism, with emphasis on how
all social segments - including women, young
people & local communities can participate 


equitably in economic opportunities.


 


 


__________________________________________





 Italian ministers... tour African 

countries to ''strengthen ties''

October 28th, 8:55am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Italy, Antonio Tajani, began 

today together with the head of the Interior, Matteo 

Piantedosi, a tour of..... Mauritania, Senegal and 

Niger, aimed at strengthening ties between 

Rome and those African countries.

 

A statement released by the Italian Foreign Ministry, indicates 

that the first stop of the tour will be in the Mauritanian capital, 

Nouakchott, where Tajani and Piantedosi will meet with the 

prime minister, Mokhtar Ould Diay, as well as with the 

heads of Foreign Affairs, Mohamed Salem Ould 

Merzoug; and from the Interior, Mohamed 

Ahmed Ould Mohamed Lemine.

 

Italy considers Mauritania to play an important role in that region, 

and to be a growing political and economic partner, which 

motivated the opening in 2024 of the embassy of this 

European country in Nouakchott, as part of a 

process that, in the last decade, included 

new diplomatic headquarters in Niger, 

Guinea, Burkina Faso and Mali.

 

The objective of this mission is, according to this official document 

“to strengthen collaboration with three key West African countries, 

prioritizing institutional stabilization, socioeconomic development, 

the fight against jihadist violence and the fight against illicit 

trafficking in weapons, drugs and human beings”. 

 

These nations offer interesting prospects for growth and economic

 collaboration, which Rome intends to promote.. with the so-called 

Mattei Plan, which is why a Business Forum will be organized in 

Dakar, capital of Senegal, to revitalize the economic presence 

in the region, which already has more than 170 active 

Italian companies.

 

In Dakar, senior Italian officials will meet with Senegalese 

President Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye, as well as 

Foreign Minister Cheikh Niang and Interior 

Minister Mouhamadou Bamba Cissé.

 

Senegal is a strategic economic partner for Italy and represents 

the fourth largest destination market for its exports in sub-

Saharan Africa and the second among West African 

countries, the text notes.

 

The mission will conclude in Niger with meetings between Tajani 

and Piantedosi with President Abdourahamane Tiani; with the 

chancellor, Bakary Yaou Sangaré, and with the Minister of 

the Interior, Mohamed Boubacar Toumba.

 

They will also maintain contact with General Ivan Cioffi, 

commander of the contingent of the Italian Support 

Mission to Niger (Misin).

 

In statements to the newspaper Il Messaggero, Tajani recognized 

that this mission is part of the purpose of the EU “to be Africa's 

main interlocutors and not delegate this role to China 

and Russia”. (RR adds - tell that to Libya!)

 

“Africa is a rich continent, inhabited in many parts by poor 

populations”, he said, specifying that “Italy wants to play 

a leading role in an area as crucial in the Sahel as Niger, 

which is also rich in raw materials - such as uranium”.

 

 

___________________________________________________

 

 

 

They advocate in Angola ------ for an 

alliance for the progress of Africa

October 28th, 8:22am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The president of the African Union Commission (AUC), Mahmoud 

Ali Youssouf, today advocated for a greater alliance between 

the countries of the continent to carry out projects that 

lead to the progress of Africa.

 

Speaking at the third Summit on Financing for Infrastructure 

Development in Africa, which is taking place until October 

31 in Luanda, Angola, Youssouf highlighted that the 

continent needs to invest 130 billion dollars 

annually to close its gap in this area.

 

The head of the CUA meant that this is the backbone of 

the African Continental Free Trade Area and economic 

sovereignty, hence the priority given to it by the 

continental entity.

 

In this regard, he reported that through the Program for 

Infrastructure Development in Africa, 16 thousand 

kilometers (km) of roads have already been 

executed, four thousand railways.... and 

30 million people were given access

 to energy.

 

He added that the next phase will expand these actions 

by mobilizing national resources, innovative financing 

and stronger global alliances.

 

“Africa integration is not a dream; it is our method”, said 

Youssouf, who insisted that the countries of the 

continent must move from a logic of aid --- 

to the logic of alliances.

 

He added that, beyond financial instruments, it is necessary to 

strengthen collective coherence and, despite a geopolitical 

context of fragmentation, move forward with a mentality 

of cooperation --- defined by Africans themselves.

 

Integration between members has become a condition of 

strength, said the CUA president and stressed that if 

Africans do not dominate their own corridors, 

resources and networks, others will.

 

“What we are building here are not roads or bridges ---- we are 

building a connected, confident, sovereign Africa”, he stated.

 

He noted that an issue that demands attention is trust in African 

institutions and the continent's capabilities, one of the topics 

that will be debated on the summit panels.

 

The event, organized by Angola and the AU -- aims to 

mobilize capital ----- and accelerate the progress of 

strategic infrastructure projects throughout Africa.

 

 

_____________________________________________

 

 

 

South Africa and Switzerland.. will 

strengthen bilateral cooperation

October 28th, 7:15am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The South African president, Cyril Ramaphosa, will make a state 

visit to Switzerland on the 29th and 30th, following the formal 

invitation of the Swiss president, Karin Keller-Sutter 

revealed an official statement here today.

 

In accordance with the text issued by the Presidency, the visit 

seeks to consolidate the political, economic and social ties 

between both nations, with special emphasis on strategic 

areas such as trade, investments, etc, capacity 

development and scientific innovation.

 

Ramaphosa will be accompanied by a high-level delegation made 

up of the Minister of International Relations, Ronald Lamola; the 

head of Science, Technology and Innovation, Blade Nzimande; 

that of Higher Education, Buti Manamela, and the Vice 

Minister of Commerce, Zuko Godlimpi.

 

A priority objective of the bilateral agenda ---- will be the 

establishment of a youth cooperation framework, that 

facilitates training and technical education programs, 

aimed at equipping new generations with skills 

required in the modern economy.

 

According to the statement..... the state visit will include 

conversations on deepening cooperation in multilateral 

forums and identifying new investment opportunities in

 technological sectors, reinforcing a strategic 

partnership that spans decades.

 

South Africa is currently consolidating itself as Switzerland's 

main partner in scientific, technological and research 

matters on the African continent. The Swiss 

incorporation into the SKA Observatory 

in 2022..... has allowed us to expand 

collaboration -- in radio astronomy 

and space exploration, reflecting 

a shared commitment to global 

scientific progress, the 

statement recalls.

 

Bilateral relations, supported by 22 current agreements, are 

managed through High Level Consultation Mechanisms 

that include working groups on foreign policy, human 

rights, economic cooperation and scientific-

educational development.

 

In the commercial field..... Switzerland remains 

among South Africa's main European partners.

 

Official South African statistics... recorded a trade exchange 

of approximately $959 million during 2024, while the Swiss 

figures –which incorporate gold exports– raise the total 

volume to about eight thousand 580 million dollars, 

placing Switzerland as the African nation's sixth 

largest trading partner.

 

The commercial structure reflects economic complementarity: 

S. Africa exports precious metals (with gold predominating), 

machinery and agricultural products such as wines, fruits 

and nuts to the Swiss market, while mainly importing 

pharmaceutical products, medical equipment 

and specialized machinery.

 

 

 

___________________________________

 

 

 

Africa - seeks financial solution

 for infrastructure development

October 28th, 6:29am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The president of Angola and incumbent President of the African 

Union (AU), João Lourenço, today called for strengthening the 

continent's financial institutions --- to allocate resources to 

critical infrastructure..... for economic growth.

 

When inaugurating the third Infrastructure Financing Summit 

for Africa in Luanda, the president recalled that the deficit

 estimated by the African Development Bank for this area

 is between 130 billion and 170 billion dollars.

 

He added that the need to develop this area, is aligned with the 

AU Agenda 2063 and the acceleration objectives of the African 

Continental Free Trade Area, therefore, the event aims to 

debate figures, projects and financial mechanisms, as 

well as reaffirm the vision of a connected, modern 

and resilient Africa.

 

The lack of infrastructure ---- increases the cost of production and 

perpetuates regional inequalities, said Lourenço, who noted that 

the meeting is an opportunity ---- to strengthen commitment to

 pan-African financial institutions.

 

He also pointed out - that another issue to address this will be 

ways to reduce the risk perceived by international rating 

agencies -- which do not always fit the potential of 

African economies, or their history of regularly 

meeting their obligations to debt 

security holders.

 

“The Luanda Declaration, which will subsequently be presented to

 African Union bodies --- should consider concrete commitments to 

strengthen African financing mechanisms”, said the AU president.

 

He added that the document will summarize the political guidelines

 that will allow harmonizing actions in each country, to guarantee 

the effective mobilization of internal and external resources, 

addressing the challenges of greater connectivity and 

integration in Africa.

 

He mentioned that the meeting aims to find financial solutions for 

several infrastructure projects preselected within the framework 

of the Program for Infrastructure Development in Africa, thanks 

to preparatory work carried out between the AU Development 

Agency ......and the Alliance of African Multilateral 

Financial Institutions.

 

“Infrastructure development is a means to create jobs, promote 

intraregional and intra-African trade, foster regional and 

continental integration, increase the complementarity 

and competitiveness of our economies and improve 

the living conditions of our population”, 

he stressed.

 

The summit, which runs until October 31 with the presence 

of high-level figures from the continent, plans to mobilize 

financing for railways, ports, roads, renewable energy, 

water security, urban infrastructures and information

 and communication technologies.

 

Lourenço also commented with those present on Angola's 

progress in this area and the persistent challenges in 

terms of energy distribution networks, road, railway, 

port, airport infrastructure, etc, energy and 

telecommunications, among others.

 

 

________________________________________




 RSF claims control of army base 

in El Fasher ------ amid clashes

October 27th, 6:05pm

by Abdallah Hussain

Press TV, Khartoum

 

Fierce fighting continues in El Fasher, North Darfur, a city long 

under siege and now at the centre of Sudan’s escalating war.

 

The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) say they’ve 

captured the Sudanese army’s 6th Division HQ, 

the military’s last stronghold in the region.

 

But army sources deny the claim, saying 

combat is still underway inside the city.

 

 

_______________________________________

 

 

 

Angola's new copper mine --- will 

process about 300 tons per day

October 27th, 1:32pmm

(Prensa Latina) 

 

Tetelo, the new copper mine in the province of Uíge in Angola, 

will process four thousand tons of the mineral daily to obtain 

300 tons of concentrate, the ministry of the sector 

reported today.

 

The enclave, located in the Maquela do Zombo region, will be 

inaugurated on October 29 and its launch marks the rebirth

of copper exploration in the region, according to a note 

from the Ministry of Mineral Resources, Oil and Gas.

 

Tetelo will be exploited by Shining Star Icarus (SSI), SU, 

Limitada, and constitutes the first modern copper mine 

in Angola since national independence, with a global

 investment of 305 million dollars.

 

According to the portfolio -- the project presents solid economic 

indicators, including a Net Present Value (NPV) of $338 million, 

an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 40.9 percent and a 

recovery period of 4.1 years.

 

The studies carried out determined that the mining site 

will have an estimated useful life of 14 years.

 

The project currently employs 1,840 workers, 70 percent of 

whom are Angolans, but it is expected that throughout its 

development the number of direct and indirect jobs 

will exceed three thousand.

 

In this sense, the Ministry highlighted the policy of technical 

training, continuing education -- and local integration of the

company in charge, which will allow greater development 

of people and communities around the mine.

 

 

_______________________________________

 

 

 

Sustainable water development in 

Ethiopia -- favours Horn of Africa 

October 27th, 1:06pm

(Prensa Latina) 

 

Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh stated today that 

Ethiopia continues to play a fundamental role in the 

sustainable development of water and energy, 

while promoting shared regional prosperity.

 

Tiruneh, opening the Second Ethiopian Water and Energy Week 

at the Science Museum, explained that the country makes a 

tangible difference by improving the lives of millions of 

people through renewable energy, water, and green 

development initiatives.

 

“Ethiopia remains steadfast in its commitment to harness its rivers

 for the shared prosperity of the region, while ensuring access to 

the sea for its national interests”, he stressed.

 

In his opinion, Addis Ababa is becoming the regional energy 

centre and, to date, supplies renewable energy to Djibouti, 

Sudan and Kenya.

 

He specified that, as the country becomes an energy centre,

 it allows neighbouring countries to benefit from affordable 

and sustainable renewable energy, in addition to 

strengthening regional ties and promoting 

collective prosperity.

 

According to the deputy prime minister, the Great Ethiopian

 Renaissance Dam constitutes a beacon of the country's 

vision of a better future, a light for Africa, a symbol of 

unity and a testament to the power of cooperation 

between nearby nations.

 

“The dam will not only boost energy development, but also 

protect biodiversity, prevent flooding and provide stable 

water flow to downstream countries”, he added.

 

After emphasizing the importance of ensuring mutual benefit and 

cooperation, rather than competition, he explained why Ethiopia 

works with the clear conviction that its transboundary rivers 

are the basis of regional connectivity.

 

He reiterated that ensuring access to the sea ------ guarantees the 

future of the country, as its economy grows and is a vital step in 

deepening regional economic integration and fostering shared 

growth throughout the Horn of Africa.

 

“The sustainable development of water and energy resources, 

through cooperation, innovation and mutual trust, remains 

the basis of our common destiny”, he stressed.

 

In his opinion, access to the sea will open a new chapter 

in strengthening trade, improving economic integration 

and regional cooperation.

 

He concluded that Ethiopia will continue to play its leading role 

in ensuring Africa's sustainable water and energy security.

 

 

________________________________________

 

 

 

Government of Ethiopia --- and UN 

launched joint national programs

October 27th, 1:05pm

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the United 

Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the Ethiopian 

Ministry of Finance today launched new joint National 

Programs for the period 2025-2030.

 

Ethiopian State Minister of Finance, Semereta Sewasew 

stated -- that these UN agencies played a fundamental 

role in advancing the African country's development 

agenda. “Their strong collaboration has been 

essential in driving our national priorities 

and contributing to our development 

agenda”, he declared.

 

Sewasew, recognizing their strong collaboration and receptive 

support to Addis Ababa... over the years, noted that their 

contributions were crucial --- in governance, resilience, 

economic transformation, health & gender equality.

 

He urged greater synergy between UN agencies to ensure greater

 impact, taking into account that the programs are aligned with 

Ethiopia's Ten-Year Development Plan and the Local 

Economic Reform agenda.

 

“This joint launch is both a celebration of our collaboration 

and a reaffirmation of our shared responsibility to deliver 

results for the people of Ethiopia”, he said.

 

For his part, the UNFPA Country representative, Koffi Kouame, 

considered that this event is more than the beginning of two 

new programs: «It is a renewed alliance, based on 

collaboration, the shared results and synergy of 

our comparative strengths ----- to drive human

 development in Ethiopia».

 

Kouame revealed investments in sexual and reproductive health,

 women's empowerment and youth potential development, 

building on its global transformation goals to «end 

preventable maternal deaths, the unmet ''need'' 

for family planning, and ending gender-based 

violence and ''harmful practices''».

 

The tenth Country Program, with a budget of 140.04 million 

dollars, is aimed at more than 21 million women and 

young people in ten regions... and a municipal 

administration, he added.

 

Meanwhile, UNDP resident representative Samuel Doe highlighted 

that the new Country Program, with a value of 279.3 million 

dollars, will continue to consolidate a milestone in the 

national dialogue and support key areas, such as 

electoral assistance.

 

Doe specified that this United Nations program.. seeks to take 

advantage of the catalytic power of innovation and artificial 

intelligence to expand solutions regarding climate action, 

expansion of governance and job creation, especially 

for youth and women.

 

 

_________________________________________

 

 

 

Ethiopian exporters ------ are urged to

take advantage of African free trade

October 27th, 1:01pm

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The Ministry of Commerce & Regional Integration of Ethiopia 

today -------- urged the export sector to make the most of the 

opportunities offered by the African Continental Free

Trade Area (AfCFTA) to gain higher export growth.

 

In statements to the Ethiopia News Agency, the AfCFTA 

coordinator in that State portfolio, Samuel Gizaw, 

explained that implementation of the agreement 

presents great market potential, given Africa's

 large population.... and its growing annual 

Gross Domestic Product.

 

Gizaw emphasized that the business community 

and other stakeholders --- must actively take 

advantage of these opportunities.

 

He recalled that the continental initiative not only seeks to 

reduce tariffs, but also simplify complex trade procedures, 

which will improve competitiveness in the African market.

 

He highlighted.. the introduction of various incentives by the local 

government to accelerate export activities under the agreement. 

“The agreement will help our exporters become more 

competitive and increase export our trade at an 

accelerated pace”, he said.

 

On the other hand, representatives of export organizations 

confirmed that the implementation of the agreement has 

a positive impact --- by expanding destination markets 

and increasing competitiveness in African markets.

 

Chairman of the board of directors of the Ethiopian Association of 

Meat Producers and Exporters, Khalifa Hussein,told the same 

media outlet that the launch of the AfCFTA will provide 

ample market opportunities in African countries.

 

Hussein reported that foreign sales of these products have so far 

been directed mainly..... to Far Eastern countries; However, this 

agreement will contribute to diversifying export destinations.

 

Demand for meat products is high in many African countries, 

which will not only incentivize producers but also benefit

 the country's economy, he added.

 

He further explained that the agreement will facilitate trade 

relations with the countries operated by Ethiopian Airlines, 

Ethiopia's flag carrier, and will help address existing 

challenges, in particular tariff barriers, thus

improving competitiveness.

 

Likewise, the general director of the Ethiopian Association of 

Horticultural Producers and Exporters, Tewodros Zewde,

stated that implementation of the AfCFTA ------ will 

contribute to expanding export destinations 

in the horticultural sector.

 

Zewde noted that the initiative will allow Ethiopia to increase its 

sales volumes and further strengthen its economic growth, 

highlighting that it presents important opportunities, 

especially in horticulture.

 

The African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement 

was officially launched in Ethiopia ------ this month.

 

 

_________________________________________



South Africa promotes autonomous 

medical production in Africa

October 24th, 12:59pm

(Prensa Latina) 

 

South Africa called for increased investments in African 

scientific and manufacturing capabilities to ensure 

continental health security and cut dependence

 on medical imports.

 

As the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, 

Blade Nzimande, said here at the BIO Africa-CPHIA

 2025 Convention ----- health self-confidence 

constitutes a fundamental requirement - 

to achieve Universal Health Coverage 

on the continent.

 

«The Covid-19 pandemic --- highlighted the vulnerabilities of 

excessive dependence on imported health products, but 

also demonstrated the enormous potential .....of 

coordinated scientific and industrial action», 

the Minister stated ---- before delegates 

from multiple African countries.

 

On the occasion, Nzimande stressed the need for policymakers, 

researchers and scientists to understand... that a sustainable 

future for Africa cannot exist without strategic investments 

in sovereign capabilities for human development, 

particularly in the health sector.

 

Visionary political leadership and strategic commitment, he added,

 represent the critical driver for nations to build robust innovative 

ecosystems and resilient domestic manufacturing capabilities.

 

As a concrete part of that vision, the South African government 

has placed science, technology and innovation at the centre 

of its development strategy, implementing the Ten-Year 

Science Plan, Technology and Innovation (2022-2032).

 

The instrument identifies Health Innovation as a central priority, 

with specific training development goals throughout the value 

chain, from basic research to local vaccine manufacturing, 

with pharmaceutical and diagnostic ingredients.

 

Among the continental initiatives... Nzimande highlighted the 

Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Plan of the African Centres 

for Disease Control and Prevention, backed by an 

investment of $3.2 billion. This program seeks 

to ensure that by 2040 at least 60 percent 

of the vaccines used in Africa ---- are 

produced within the continent.

 

At the national level, South Africa develops its Vaccine Innovation 

and Manufacturing Strategy ------- complemented by technical 

cooperation from Germany, the EU & GIZ through initiatives 

such as SAVax and MAV+. These collaborations provide 

regulatory strengthening, business development, and 

the establishment of mRNA technology platforms.

 

 

____________________________________

 

 

 

South Africa ----- launches digital 

platform to combat tuberculosis

October 24th, 10:50am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The South African Ministry of Health today presented a national 

campaign against tuberculosis --- supported by a public control 

panel that monitors the progress of tuberculosis ---- with tests

in almost real time.

 

The system, described here as innovative at the national level,

was inaugurated by the Minister of the branch, Aaron 

Motsoaledi, at the Headquarters of the Health 

Laboratory Service.

 

The tool represents a commitment to the use of digital technology 

to promote health equity, as highlighted by the health portfolio.

 

«It is an investment in the power of data to save lives. Our political 

will to end tuberculosis is very strong and unwavering», the 

minister stated, during the launch.

 

This is part of collaborative efforts between the Ministry, the 

National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD) and 

the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS). Its 

central objective is to reduce the incidence and 

mortality from tuberculosis in South Africa 

by 2035.

 

The platform offers a detailed view..... of exam trends over time, 

allowing users to monitor progress and identify gaps. Provides 

performance tracking at all administrative levels, including 

province and district.

 

Additionally, data is disaggregated by age and gender 

to visualize which populations are being reached 

and which remain underserved.

 

Motsoaledi addressed the historical impact of gold mining 

on tuberculosis rates, noting that the mines generated 

significant silica dust. «Today we pay the price of 

that gold for the amount of tuberculosis that 

occurred in the gold mines», he stated.

 

The «End TB» campaign.. has also revealed gender disparities 

in healthcare seeking behaviour, in the country. Previous HIV 

testing campaigns showed that 65 percent of people tested 

were women, while men made up only 30.

 

The Minister announced that a priority focus is the 

development of a vaccine, expressing his hope 

that the corresponding clinical trials can be 

completed in three years.

 

 

___________________________________

 

 

 

African entity ------- advocates 

transparent Ivorian elections

October 24th, 10:31am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The Economic Community of West African States, today 

advocated for the holding of transparent, credible and

 peaceful elections in Côte d'Ivoire tomorrow.

 

Through a statement, the head of the observer mission of the 

subregional organization, the Nigerian Yemi Osinbajo, stated 

that the delegation is made up of 187 supervisors, which 

must demonstrate objectivity and impartiality when 

collecting and reporting information about the 

electoral process.

 

In these presidential elections, scheduled for this Saturday, 

the more than 8.7 million Ivorian voters called -------- must 

choose between 5 candidates, including 2 women, for 

the country's president, with the greatest chances 

of re-election.... for the current president, 

Alassane Ouattara.

 

Various sources indicate that, according to opinion polls, the 

outgoing Head of State, 83 years old, appears as a large 

favourite to win the vote, with the exclusion by the

electoral authorities -- of the candidacies of two 

of the main opponents, among them, former

 president Laurent Gbagbo.

 

During the previous democratic exercise, Ouattara, who focused 

his electoral campaign on solving economic & social problems 

& reinvigorating the industrialization of this African country, 

was re-elected --- for the third time --- with more than 94%

of the votes.

 

According to analysts, Ivory Coast -- one of the largest cocoa 

producing territories, is still suffering the effects of a bloody 

''civil war'' between 2002 and 2007 that left some 4,000

 dead and 750,000 people displaced.

 

In the event that none of the presidential candidates obtains 

more than 50 percent of the ballots in dispute, a second 

round of elections will be held, as provided by the 

electoral body.

 

 

__________________________________




South African president -- will visit 


Indonesia, Vietnam and Malaysia


October 21st, 10:28am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, will begin 


tomorrow, the 22nd, an official tour.. of three Southeast 


Asian nations, with the aim of strengthening strategic 


and economic links with a region of growing 


global influence.


 


The agenda, which runs from October 22 to 28, according to


 a presidential statement released today, includes state 


visits to Indonesia and Vietnam, and a working visit to 


Malaysia, where the president will also attend the 


47th Summit of the Association of Southeast 


Asian Nations (ASEAN) as a guest of


 the Presidency.


 


Local analysts consider that this tour reflects Pretoria's foreign 


policy, aimed at diversifying its international alliances and 


building bridges of economic and political cooperation 


with key actors in a global context in transformation, 


beyond traditional partners.


 


According to the text.... the first stop will be in Indonesia, at the 


invitation of his counterpart - President Prabowo Subianto. The 


official program in Jakarta includes a private meeting between 


both leaders and subsequent expanded bilateral talks with 


their ministerial delegations.


 


Discussions are expected to focus on expanding cooperation in 


key sectors - such as trade, agriculture, tourism and defence, in 


order to diversify trade in a volatile global context. The bilateral 


relationship, formalized in 1994, the document recalls, has its 


roots in historical ties dating back to the 17th century and 


solid political solidarity. Indonesia was a frontal critic of 


the apartheid regime and a strong supporter of the 


South African liberation movement.


 


Currently, both nations are partners within the BRICS bloc, 


adding an additional strategic dimension to their 


relationship ---- and reinforcing their shared 


commitment to South-South cooperation.


 


Prior to the state visit, the statement reveals, a South Africa-


Indonesia Business Forum was held, focused on identifying 


investment opportunities in mining, manufacturing, 


infrastructure and the green economy.


 


Ramaphosa will subsequently travel to Vietnam for a state visit on 


October 23 and 24, where it is expected to deepen an economic 


association that has shown sustained growth in recent years.


 


The tour will conclude in Malaysia, where from October 25 to 28, it 


will hold high-level work meetings. His participation in the ASEAN 


Summit underlines South Africa's commitment to South-South 


dialogue - and strengthening interregional cooperation.


 


 


________________________________________________


 






Polisario Front ------ Offers Direct Talks 


With Morocco Under UN Supervision


October 21st, 8:50am


(teleSUR)


 


On Monday, Polisario Front leader Brahim Ghali sent a letter 


to United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres 


expressing his willingness.. to “engage in direct and 


serious negotiations with the Kingdom of Morocco”


 under the auspices of the United Nations.


 


The letter includes a Polisario proposal ---- to hold a referendum 


supervised by the United Nations and the African Union and to 


convey the Sahrawi State’s readiness... to negotiate with 


Morocco “the establishment of strategic and mutually


 beneficial relations between the two countries.”


 


The letter was presented to the UN secretary-general under the 


title “Proposal of the Polisario Front for a Mutually Acceptable 


Political Solution Providing for the Self-Determination of the 


People of Western Sahara and Restoring Regional Peace 


and Stability.”


 


The Polisario offered “good-faith, unconditional negotiations” 


based on “the spirit and content of the expanded proposal, 


with a view to achieving a peaceful and lasting solution 


that ensures the self-determination of the 


Sahrawi people.”


 


The Sahrawi independence movement described the resolution 


of the conflict as “urgent” and called for moving away from 


“solutions based on the status quo and unilaterally 


imposed,” urging all sides to “have the political 


courage and foresight needed - to 


work together.”


 


The Polisario Front said its proposal responds to United Nations 


Security Council (UNSC) resolutions that stress the importance 


of both parties “broadening their positions” ....in order to 


promote a solution.


 


On Oct. 31, the UNSC is scheduled to discuss the extension of 


the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western


 Sahara (MINURSO).


 


Peace negotiations remain stalled despite ongoing contacts 


by the UN secretary-general’s personal envoy for Western 


Sahara, Staffan de Mistura.. who last visited the Sahrawi 


refugee camps in Algeria’s Tindouf region in September.


 


Morocco proposes granting the territory autonomy under its 


sovereignty. In 2020, however.. the Polisario Front declared 


the 1991 ceasefire with Rabat void, reiterating its demand


 for self-determination through a referendum.


 


A Stalemate Between Sovereignty and Independence


 


Western Sahara, a former Spanish colony, is considered a non-


self-governing territory in the process of decolonization. 


Morocco currently controls about 80% of the area, but 


the United Nations has not recognized Moroccan 


sovereignty over it.


 


The conflict between Morocco and the Polisario Front centres 


on the disputed territory of Western Sahara, located on 


Africa’s northwest coast. After Spain withdrew in 


1975, both Morocco and Mauritania claimed 


the territory.


 


The indigenous Sahrawi people, represented by the Polisario 


Front — a liberation movement founded in 1973 — sought 


independence rather than integration with either 


neighbouring country.


 


Morocco, however, asserted historical sovereignty over the 


territory, while the Polisario Front, backed by Algeria, 


declared the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic 


(SADR) in 1976, claiming full independence.


 


A protracted war between Morocco and the Polisario Front, lasted 


from 1975 to 1991. During that period, Morocco gained control of 


about two-thirds of Western Sahara and built a heavily fortified 


sand wall, known as the “Moroccan Berm,” to secure its hold


 on the region.


 


The Polisario Front operated mainly from refugee camps in Tindouf, 


Algeria, conducting guerrilla warfare against the Moroccan forces. 


The United Nations brokered a ceasefire in 1991 and established 


MINURSO to organize a self-determination referendum. However, 


disputes over voter eligibility and political disagreements have 


delayed the vote.... indefinitely.


 


The conflict remains unresolved. Morocco considers Western 


Sahara an integral part of its national territory and proposes 


limited autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty, while the 


Polisario Front continues to demand full independence 


for the Sahrawi people.


 


Sporadic clashes --- have resumed since 2020, and diplomatic 


tensions persist among Morocco, Algeria, and other regional 


actors. Despite international efforts, including UN-led 


negotiations, the status of Western Sahara, remains 


one of Africa’s longest-running and most complex 


territorial disputes.


 


 


_______________________________________________


 



 


G20 Incorporates Environmental 


Issues Proposed by South Africa


October 21st, 7:39am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The G20 incorporated for the first time in its history, under the 


management of South Africa, two crucial issues on its global 


agenda: air quality and crimes that affect the environment.


 


The adoption was materialized through the Cape Town Ministerial 


Declaration on Air Quality & the Ministerial Declaration on Crimes 


Affecting the Environment, marking a unanimous recognition of


 its urgency ......and its transversal impact on populations, 


ecosystems and economies.


 


In this regard --- the Minister of Forests, Fisheries and Environment, 


Dion George, highlighted that this diplomatic achievement reflects 


the leadership of the African nation during his presidency -- of the 


G20 Working Group on Environmental and Climate Sustainability.


 


“These issues reflect the daily realities of our citizens: the air they 


breathe, the security of their natural heritage and the rule of law 


that protects it. We managed to place these critical issues at


 the top of the global agenda, protecting our people and our


 environment, ensuring that justice and health go hand in


 hand”, he said.


 


The Declaration on Environmental Crimes calls for strengthened 


international cooperation to combat the illegal wildlife trade,
deforestation, illegal mining and waste trafficking, and 


trans-national crimes that undermine environmental 


security, societies, and economic integrity.


 


The document commits forum members, to foster synergies 


between policies and sectors, mobilize financial resources, 


improve data and monitoring systems and expand support


 to the communities most affected by air pollution.


 


Together, both statements represent a turning point on the global 


environmental agenda - and reflect South Africa's position, which 


links environmental protection to social & economic well-being. 


 


The results of these decisions will be integrated into the 


G20 Leaders' Declaration, to be considered at the next 


Johannesburg Summit.


 


In parallel to this achievement, the South African government 


reaffirmed its position ahead of the 30th Conference of the 


Parties (COP30) of the United Nations Framework 


Convention on Climate Change ---- which will be 


held in Belém, Brazil, from November 10 to 21.


 


The Minister demanded a significant increase in climate finance 


for developing economies, stressing that this support --- should


 not generate new debt burdens.


 


“Nations with developing economies require predictable and 


accessible financing, expanded for mitigation, adaptation 


and loss and damage”, he said.


 


These resources should be in the form of grants and concessional 


financing, not through new loans, the minister declared during 


the National Consultation of Social Actors for COP30, 


held in Johannesburg.


 


George stressed that climate finance is central to meaningful 


action and recalled that developed countries have a legal 


obligation, under Article 9.1 of the Paris Agreement, 


to provide this support.


 


The minister also referred to the New Quantified Collective Goal, 


adopted at COP29, and the Roadmap from Baku to Belém, 


which aims to mobilize 1.3 trillion dollars annually,


 by 2035.


 


“The world must move from promises to practice. Every decision


 in Belém must come ---- with an implementation, financing and 


accountability plan”, he concluded.


 


 


_______________________________________________


 


 


 


Paramilitaries -- bomb 


the Khartoum airport


October 21st, 7:38am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


Sudanese paramilitaries bombed Khartoum international airport 


with drones today, less than 24 hours after its reopening.


 


The air terminal was recovered by the Army -- last March, after 


almost two years in the hands of the so-called Rapid Support 


Forces (RSF), almost since the start of the war in April 2023.


 


According to the Sudanese news portal Sudan Tribune, the 


airport's air defense intercepted several drones, although 


several possible impacts were seen.


 


It has not yet been reported by the authorities, whether there 


are victims.... as well as the extent of the damage left by 


the attack.


 


The air terminal of this capital was scheduled to begin its 


nationwide reopening tomorrow, Wednesday, after 


numerous renovation works, after having 


suspended its operations after the 


outbreak of a war between the 


official Army, and the RSF.


 


 


__________________________________


 


 


 


Angola aspires to a 10%


 mining share of GDP


October 21st, 7:34am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


Angola creates conditions today for the diversification and 


growth of mining production, with a view to achieving a 


10 percent participation of the sector in the Gross 


Domestic Product (GDP) by 2035.


 


Currently mining represents 2% of GDP, focused fundamentally 


on diamond extraction, an issue that must be transformed 


with ongoing projects linked to the production of gold,


 iron, copper, phosphate and rare earth minerals.


 


The opportunities that the country offers in this area, the 


existing challenges and the sustainability of initiatives 


were addressed this Tuesday at the Angola Mining 


Summit 2025, at the Talatona Convention Centre,


 in Luanda, which brought together business


people and investors from the sector.


 


Engineer Joao Chimuco, executive director of the National Mineral 


Resources Agency (ANRM), pointed out that the country has only


 40 percent of the territory geologically mapped, therefore, the 


potential identified so far.... might be even greater.


 


Angola can become an important player on the international stage, 


he noted, but it must first work on issues such as insufficient 


infrastructure, including the lack of electrical energy in 


mining enclaves which lack transmission networks,


 despite the fact that the country generates 


more electricity ....than it consumes.


 


He also indicated the need to advance rail 


connections for the transportation 


of materials.


 


Other challenges identified are illegal mining activity, 


especially gold and diamonds, in addition to the low 


processing of raw materials, locally.


 


Chimuco explained that the national strategy towards 2035 


includes five fundamental pillars, among which the 


diversification of mining production stands out, 


to reduce dependence on diamonds, and 


along this path.... progress is already 


being made ------ in projects for the 


extraction of copper and niobium.


 


Likewise, the local transformation of materials, the promotion 


of investments, establishing modern legal regulation, as well 


as defending the sustainability of all projects.... constitute 


essential axes.


 


This Tuesday's meeting was held under the motto Mining, 


innovation and sustainability in Angola, and was 


organized by the ANRM and the Brazilian 


Mining Institute.


 


The Angolan Secretary of State for Mineral Resources, 


Janio Correa Victor, and the executive director of the 


Brazilian Mining Institute, Gustavo Cruz, led the 


work sessions.


 


At the opening, Correa Victor highlighted the role of the event 


in sharing knowledge, debating strategic issues, generating 


partnerships and identifying spaces for investment.


 


Among the issues addressed during the meeting were 


current trends on critical minerals --- and the 


innovation and sustainability of projects


 in the sector, among others.


 


 


___________________________________________


 


 


 


US and EU Funding Cuts - Push Nigeria to
the Brink of a Major Hunger Emergency


October 21st, 4:29am


(teleSUR)


 


As U.S. and Western funding declines, aid agencies warn of a 


worsening hunger crisis in northern Nigeria, where millions 


rely on shrinking humanitarian assistance.


 


Food and nutrition insecurity in northeast Nigeria was exacerbated 


by tightening constraints on humanitarian access, increased food 


prices, and supply chain disruptions... associated with events in 


Ukraine. Nigeria’s rural population struggled to grow food on 


unsafe or damaged land. Retailers of food and fuel 


dependent on imports faced challenges in 


managing the steep decline in the value


 of the naira against other currencies. 


 


As the current decade approaches its mid-point, Nigeria remains 


far from its goal of achieving zero hunger by 2030. The WFP has 


been providing General Food Assistance (GFA) through Cash-


Based Transfers (CBT) to internally displaced persons (IDPs)


 and other food insecure people in North-East Nigeria since 


2016. WFP has scaled up its activities over the years to 


support IDPs and vulnerable beneficiaries affected by 


crises in both urban and rural areas to reach almost 


1 million people with cash based transfers in 2022.


 


Nigeria is facing an escalating hunger emergency as international 


aid agencies warn that funding cuts — led by a drastic reduction


 in U.S. assistance — are crippling efforts to support millions of 


displaced people in the country’s conflict-affected north. The 


World Food Programme estimates that 600,000 children are 


at risk of dying from malnutrition ------- if relief operations 


continue to shrink.


 


Humanitarian groups report that, while needs across Nigeria have 


surged ---- resources have plummeted. The WFP has already been 


forced to close more than 150 nutrition clinics that once treated 


malnourished children and infants.


 


“There are millions of people --- who need our help,” said Ancel 


Kats of the WFP in Nigeria. “But the funding isn’t forthcoming.”


 


Until earlier this year, the US provided over half of Nigeria’s 


humanitarian aid. That support collapsed shortly after 


President Donald Trump announced the dismantling


 of the U.S. Agency for International Development 


(USAID), causing an abrupt drop in foreign aid. 


Several European governments have also 


reduced their ''development'' budgets, 


deepening the financial strain on 


relief programs.


 


Aid organisations managed to absorb some of the shortfall in the 


first half of the year, but the effects are now stark. The WFP 


faces a funding gap - of more than $115 million in Nigeria 


alone and is cutting its help ---- across the continent.


 


In the town of Bama, in Borno State — one of the epicentres 


of the displacements caused by ongoing violence ------- food
distributions are NOW being cut back. “They all depend 


on WFP to distribute this food for them to eat,” said 


Soumbami Tukunabo... an ''aid worker'' with the 


Italian organisation -- InterSOS. “It would be


 very bad to tell them that - due to funding
cuts there is going to be a reduction
in caseloads.”


 


The crisis extends beyond food relief. Since the end of USAID 


operations, Nigeria lost $600 million in health sector support 


— roughly one-fifth of its total health budget — threatening 


basic services such as disease prevention, maternal 


care, and nutrition programs.


 


As humanitarian funding recedes and displacement continues, 


aid agencies warn that Nigeria could face one of Africa’s 


gravest hunger crises in decades. Without renewed


 international commitment, they say, millions of 


lives may soon depend... on an aid system
...no longer able to respond.


 


 


______________________________________________________



 Culture unites peoples 
of Cuba and Angola

October 20th, 6:06pm

(Prensa Latina) 

 

“La Bayamesa”, a war song that has become the national anthem 

of Cuba and a symbol of identity of the Caribbean nation, was 

heard today with an Angolan and Cuban accent in Luanda, 

just on the date of his 157th birthday.

 

Convened by the Cuban embassy to commemorate that event,
which consecrated October 20th --- as National Culture Day, 

representatives of both countries and guests of the 

accredited diplomatic corps attended the 

Dr. António Agostinho Neto 

Memorial Centre.

 

Music, dance, poems, plastic arts and a review of the history 

of the creation of the piece were among the elements of the 

program, which was witnessed by the Angolan Secretary of 

State for Culture, Maria da Piedade de Jesus, among other 

members of the Government and organizations.

 

The closeness between both peoples, the common history built 

over half a century - which will be celebrated next November 

15 - and even much earlier, made it possible for several of 

those present to sing as their own ------- the anthem that 

called on Cubans since 1868 to fight for their freedom.

 

The Cuban ambassador Oscar León highlighted the African 

footprint in the culture of his country -- which also has its

roots in these towns --- well, around 1,300,000 Africans 

were taken as slaves to the archipelago.

 

Their customs, traditions, rhythms and foods were integrated 

and today they are part of a cultural legacy enriched over

the centuries, which identifies and unites us, he noted.

 

The diplomat highlighted the efforts to preserve these ties and

 noted that a Memorandum of Understanding is ready to be 

signed between the Ministries of Culture of Angola and 

Cuba, which seeks to promote the reinforcement of 

collaboration in this area.

 

He commented that in the last two years exchanges between the 

two nations have been maintained, and mentioned in particular 

the visit of the Secretary of State for Culture, who participated 

in the Jazz Plaza Festival, the International Conference of the

 Decade of People of African Descent - and toured the Higher 

Institute of Art.

 

Pianist Dimbo Makiesse and tenor Isau Fortunato, who shared their 

art with those present, also spoke of their admiration for the music 

and musicians of the Caribbean nation.

 

The Cuban painter Yasiel Palomino, who has lived in Angola for 

almost 10 years, painted a piece during the celebration that 

he donated to the Agostinho Neto Memorial, as a symbol 

of friendship between both peoples.

 

The Angolan poet Jolena and the Cuban declaimer 

Miguel García .....completed the program.

 

Those present ...could also get a little closer to the seven Cuban 

elements that make up the Representative List of the Intangible 

Cultural Heritage of Humanity: the French Tomb, the Cuban 

Rumba, the Cuban Point ....and the Parrandas of the 

central region.

 

It is also made up of the Knowledge of the masters of light rum; 

Bolero, in conjunction with Mexico, and traditional knowledge 

and practices for the manufacture and consumption of 

cassava bread, in conjunction with the Dominican 

Republic, Haiti, Honduras, and Venezuela.

 

 

_____________________________________________





Post-election tension ---

escalates in Cameroon

October 20th, 10:57am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The tension in the Cameroonian political situation is more 

evident today ....due to accusations of electoral fraud 

in last week's presidential elections.

 

We are for alternation (in power), said Issa Tchiroma Bakary, 

who competed in the race with the incumbent president, 

Paul Biya, candidate for re-election in the elections on

 Sunday the 12th of this month.

 

Maneuvers are underway to use fraud and favour the 

president, Bakary said at a rally with his supporters.

 

Likewise, he urged the Constitutional Court 

to validate the will of the voters.

 

Just 48 hours after the closing of the voting centers, the 

opposition candidate, was proclaimed the winner of the 

consultation, an allegation that he repeats almost daily.

 

From Biya's side, silence persists about the accusations and 

the Electoral Commission limited itself to remembering that 

the Constitutional Court is the authority in charge of 

announcing and publishing the official results for 

which has a maximum period of 15 days 

from the close of voting.

 

 

____________________________________

 

 

 

Government reforms try to calm 

the young people in Morocco

October 20th, 5:48am

Prensa Latina) 

 

After weeks of protest demonstrations, the Moroccan 

Government agreed to several institutional reforms 

that contemplate improvements for Education 

and Health, it was learned here today.

 

The Cabinet reported - that the meeting of the Council of 

Ministers was held the day before - at the Royal Palace 

of this capital.. headed by monarch Mohamed VI, and

it was dedicated to the examination of the Finance

 bill for 2026..... presented by the Minister of
Economy and Finance, Nadia Fetá.

 

Political observers highlight this Monday -- that the reforms

 are trying to calm popular spirits, after several weeks of 

demonstrations... against the Government and the 

educational and health system, which left at 

least three dead and dozens arrested.

 

According to Minister Fetá, the changes... seek to achieve

a national development that combines social justice and 

integrated territorial development, which includes an 

increase in spending on education and health.

 

The proposals also contemplate intensifying efforts for 

the insertion of young people and women into the 

world of work, highlighted the Moroccan state 

news agency, MAP.

 

The demonstrations, which occurred, were considered the 

largest in Morocco in years and spread to several cities 

despite the lack of permits from the authorities.

 

Participants in the protests denounced widespread corruption 

while many schools and hospitals are underfunded ---- and 

remain in a sorry state.

 

This chaos unfolded amid political campaigns 

for the 2026 parliamentary elections.

 

The demonstrations - were also attended by representatives of 

opposition political parties, such as the United Socialist Party 

(PSU), which expressed concern about the repression of 

the authorities --- in numerous cities and towns.

 

 

_____________________________________



Türkiye increases trade
with Africa


October 18th, 12:34pm


(Prensa Latina) 


 


Türkiye's Minister of Commerce, Ömer Bolat, announced today 


that the volume of trade between his country and the African 


continent will reach 40 billion dollars this year, with the 


prospect of reaching 50 billion by 2028.


 


During the closing of the Türkiye-Africa Economic and Business 


Forum, held in Istanbul under the auspices of the Ministry of 


Commerce and in coordination with the African Union, 


Bolat highlighted that trade relations between 


Türkiye and Africa have increased sevenfold 


in the last two decades, consolidating an 


alliance based on mutual respect, 


equity and shared benefit.


 


The forum, organized by the Board of Foreign 


Economic Relations (DEIK), brought together 


government representatives, entrepreneurs 


and leaders of regional organizations 


under the motto “Strengthening 


Turkish-African relations to 


share mutual benefits”.


 


Bolat recalled that since 2003, the year in which Türkiye 


officially adopted a policy of openness towards Africa, 


strategic steps -- have been taken to strengthen 


cooperation. Among them, he highlighted that 


Ankara was recognized as an observer state 


of the African Union in 2005 and as a 


strategic partner in 2008, in addition 


to having signed multiple bilateral 


agreements with countries on 


the continent.


 


Likewise, he emphasized that institutions such as Turkish 


Airlines, the Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA), 


the Maarif Foundation and various Turkish civil society 


organizations have an active presence in the region, 


contributing to development in sectors such as 


education, infrastructure, health 


and transportation.


 


Our vision towards Africa is a partnership between equals, 


focused on justice and sharing benefits, stated the head 


of the Economy, who also highlighted --- that Turkish 


investments in Africa generate jobs for hundreds 


of thousands of people ....and promote 


local production.


 


 


________________________________________


 


 


 


South Africa promotes agricultural 


research in the face of 


climate change


October 18th, 6:54am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


South Africa's National Planning Commission (NPC) advances


 key research on agriculture and irrigation to counter climate 


change and ensure food security.


 


In this regard, Commissioner Lebogang Pheko warned about 


scenarios where crops such as wheat are scarce due to 


climatic variations, raising the costs of basic foods and 


threatening cultural traditions linked to food.


 


The NPC, an independent advisory body created by President 


Cyril Ramaphosa and custodian of the National Development 


Plan (NDP), prioritizes studies to eliminate poverty by 2030 


through economic growth, exports..... and greater 


labour absorption.


 


Pheko, one of the 26 commissioners and senior political 


economist, explained that the research addresses 


innovative agricultural methods, small business 


development, reduction of bureaucracy and 


water infrastructure, in a context of water 


scarcity aggravated by the climate.


 


Chapter six of the NDP highlights the rural agricultural potential 


to generate nearly one million jobs by 2030, with the plant 


industry as an engine of job creation and improvement of 


livelihoods, in the face of growing demand in South 


Africa and the south of the continent.


 


«We consider water scarcity and its impacts on harvest seasons 


and availability of traditional foods», Pheko explained, under-


lining the need to reconfigure the national agricultural 


footprint and attract young people to the sector, 


and integrating it ----- into the national 


construction discourse.


 


Data from the South African Chamber of Agricultural Business 


(Agbiz) indicates that agricultural exports reached a record 


of $13.7 billion in 2024, with 44 percent directed to Africa. 


Since 1994, the value and volume of the sector has 


doubled, directly employing 924 thousand people.


 


The NPC projects intergenerational scenarios beyond 2030, 


reimagining socio-agricultural, water and energy needs,


 in a complex economy due to extractive legacies 


and educational deficiencies.


 


Before the G20 Summit in November, the NPC advocates for 


African inclusion, global collaborations against crises such 


as climate change and food insecurity, taking advantage 


of the group's weight  ------ at 85 percent of world GDP.


 


 


___________________________________________


 


 



Cairo to Lead Global Push for Gaza 


Recovery; Funding and Planning 


Underway


October 18th, 5:39am


(teleSUR)


 


Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty held a phone 


conversation Friday with Palestinian Prime Minister 


Mohammad Mustafa to advance preparations for 


a high-level conference on rebuilding the Gaza 


Strip, set to take place in Cairo........... in 


late November.


 


According to Foreign Ministry spokesman Tamer Khafagy, 


the two officials reviewed logistical and political details 


of the upcoming event, including its goals, anticipated 


outcomes, and mechanisms for coordinating 


international funding commitments. They 


also discussed the urgency of updating 


assessments.... of the extensive 


destruction across Gaza.


 


Abdelatty stressed that Egypt expects broad participation 


from governments and international organizations, noting


 the conference is being convened with key global 


partners under the mandate of the previously 


endorsed Arab-Islamic summit.


 


Prime Minister Mustafa praised Egypt’s diplomatic leadership 


and thanked Cairo for hosting the conference and pushing 


for a permanent halt to the war in Gaza. He also 


commended..... Egypt’s continued defense of 


Palestinian rights in international forums.


 


Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly confirmed that the 


reconstruction framework has already been endorsed by 


Arab and Islamic states, as well as by several major 


world powers. He added that now that the Gaza 


agreement has been signed, the overall vision 


is being converted into a detailed 


implementation plan complete 


with timelines.......... and 


funding channels.


 


 


_____________________________________________






Ural cars may be....... 


assembled in Uganda


October 17th, 2:16pm


 (Izvestia.ru)


 


A large-scale assembly plant for Ural cars may be 


established in Uganda. This was announced on 


October 17 by Vladlen Semivolos, Russia's


 Ambassador to Uganda, after the third 


meeting of the Intergovernmental 


Commission for Economic and 


Scientific-Technical 


Cooperation in 


Kampala.


 


"Among the specific projects approved at the meeting,


it is worth noting ----- the plans for companies of our 


countries, to create an enterprise for large-scale 


assembly of Ural cars in Uganda to meet the 


needs of East African countries," TASS 


quoted Semivolos as saying, on 


October 17.


 


According to the diplomat, the event also focused on 


cooperation in the fields of trade, industry, finance 


and banking, energy, agriculture, construction, 


transport, education, healthcare, and others. 


 


The parties signed a final protocol that outlined specific 


areas of trade, investment, and industrial cooperation 


for the foreseeable future.


 


Earlier, on May 23, it was reported that the Ural automotive 


plant opened a new building for the assembly of trucks of 


increased labour intensity. The opening of the site.. will 


allow to increase the total production capacity of the 


enterprise by more than 5.5 thousand cars per year.


 


 


_____________________________________




President of Angola received 


envoys.... from Zambia 


and Mozambique


October 17th, 12:44pm


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The president of Angola, Joao Lourenco, received today the 


Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of 


Zambia, Mulamba Haimbe, who gave the president a letter


 from his counterpart, Hakainde Hichilema.


 


The special envoy commented to the press after the meeting 


that the letter addresses aspects related to strengthening 


bilateral relations in various areas.


 


The Angolan head of state and president of the Popular 


Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) party,


also granted an audience on Friday to the general 


secretary of the Mozambique Liberation Front 


party (Frelimo), Ghakie Aboobacar.


 


Both parties spoke at the Presidential Palace of Ciudad Alta 


about the historic and friendly relations that exist between 


the two towns and political formations, according to what 


Aboobacar told the press.


 


On the same day, Lourenço also spoke with the president of the 


National Liberation Front of Angola (FNLA) party, Nimi a Simbi, 


with whom he discussed issues related to the current 


political situation in the country.


 


The FNLA leader commented - after the meeting, that he took the 


opportunity to thank the president for the decision to award the 


commemorative medal for 50 years of national independence 


to Álvaro Holden Roberto, one of the signatories of the Alvor 


Agreements and president of the FNLA for several decades.


 


 


______________________________________________________


 


 


 


Ambush causes casualties to 


Nigerian security forces


October 17th, 12:44pm


(Prensa Latina) 


 


An ambush set by unknown persons on a caravan in the north 


of the country cost the lives of eight soldiers and police, 


official Nigerian sources admitted today.


 


The action occurred in the state of Zamfara, near 


Borno, headquarters of the Islamist group Boko 


Haram, suspected of the action, although the 


report only identifies the attackers as 


“bandits” and does not specify.


 


If the conjecture is proven, the ambush marks the restart of


the operations of that entity --- although the Islamic State 


also operates in the West African Province in the area.


 


The frequent attacks by both insurgents, are the main 


headache for the central government of this country, 


Africa's largest oil producer.


 


 


 


_________________________________________


 


 


 


South Africa promotes exports 


to Africa ......at trade fair


October 17th, 10:51am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


South Africa intensified its strategy of diversifying export 


markets to the African continent, after concluding an 


Export Symposium and Exhibition organized for 


this purpose.


 


The event, organized by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry 


and Competition (dtic), brought together more than 130 


local exporters from sectors with high added value 


and growth, for three days.


 


The director of Export Promotion of the dtic, Zanele Sanni, 


confirmed that the event reinforced the commitment to 


reduce dependence on a small group of traditional 


trading partners.


 


“The symposium - underlined the urgency of diversifying our 


markets and strengthening intra-African trade”, the official 


stated on the occasion -- by highlighting the key role of
the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).


 


Sanni also considered that this agreement represents a 


catalyst for the expansion of South African foreign 


sales, especially in the face of disruptions and


 increasing tariffs in the global market.


 


The program included four panel discussions on export 


financing, inclusive growth ....and the role of trade 


agreements in accessing new destinations.


 


Buyers from Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, Egypt and Malawi 


participated in business rounds with South African 


companies in automotive components, 


technology, agribusiness, mining 


machinery and brand services.


 


“That the majority of buyers are African confirms our ambition 


to direct export growth towards the continent, with value-


added manufactured products”, Sanni stressed.


 


At the expo, delegates asked the government to accelerate 


the finalization of rules of origin for sensitive sectors, a 


step considered crucial to building regional value 


chains and generating employment.


 


In this regard, the Vice Minister of Commerce, Zuko Godlimpi, in 


charge of the opening, announced that the Export Symposium 


will evolve..... and expand to other African countries, to 


showcase its manufacturing capabilities.


 


“Each African nation has the potential to produce value-added 


goods, supply each other and strengthen intra-African trade, 


exceeding the current levels of 15 to 16 percent”, he said.


 


 


__________________________________


 


 


 


Post-election tensions 


increase in Cameroon


October 17th, 9:59am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The perpetrators of the fire at an office of the Popular 


Democratic Movement (MPD - in government) in the 


autonomous county of Daxchang (west) remain


 anonymous today.


 


The action occurred on Wednesday - amid political tensions 


unleashed by the self-proclamation of victory in last week's 


presidential election by Tchiroma Bakary, 43 --- who vied


with President Paul Biya, 93 years old, and 43 years in 


power --- as his rival candidate for re-election.


 


The local authorities announced an investigation 


to find the perpetrators of the intentional fire.


 


The post-election incidents are added to those generated by the 


actions of an armed militia created by the English-speaking 


community, based in the northwest and southwest of 


Cameroon, whose members denounce what they 


describe as discrimination by the French-


speaking majority that monopolizes 


the government - and the 


instruments of power: 


the Armed Forces 


and the Police.


 


The attack on the ruling party headquarters heralds the 


outbreak of violent incidents -- if the result favours 


President Biya.. whose health was questioned 


months ago, but they seem dissipated after 


the president's return to the country......


 from a private visit to Europe.


 


 


______________________________________


 


 


 


Communist Party of Cuba greets


 XXII National Conference 


of ZANU-PF 


October 17th, 8:27am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba 


today sent a message to the XXII National Conference 


of the African National Union of Zimbabwe – Patriotic 


Front (ZANU-PF).


 


On behalf of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of 


Cuba we send a fraternal greeting to the dear colleagues and 


brothers of ZANU-PF, at the same time, we wish you success


 in holding your XXII National Conference, indicates the 


message presented by the Ambassador, Suselys


 Pérez Mesa.


 


On this very significant occasion -- he adds -- we ratify the will to 


continue deepening excellent interparty relations, based on the 


Exchange and Cooperation Agreement, signed in January 2025


 ....during the visit of the member of the Political Bureau and 


Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Simbarashe Mumbengegwi.


 


The message thanks ZANU-PF and the people of Zimbabwe for 


their unwavering solidarity in the fight to lift the criminal and 


genocidal economic, commercial and financial blockade, 


imposed more than six decades ago ------ by the US.


 


It also recognizes the position of the African nation in 


demanding the elimination of Cuba from the list of 


States supposedly sponsoring terrorism.


 


According to the Communist Party of Cuba, in the face of the 


resurgence of fascist forces and the indiscriminate use of 


force, we must continue to promote unity between leftist 


and progressive forces ---- in defense of peace around 


the world.


 


Be convinced that we will continue working together to face 


the great global challenges, concludes the message to the 


XXII National Conference of ZANU-PF, to the event in this 


city, about 260 kilometres southeast of Harare.


 


 


______________________________________


 


 


 


South Africa participates in 


G7 development meeting


October 17th, 7:30am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


South African Planning Minister, Maropene Ramokgopa, 


heads his country's delegation at the G7 Development 


Ministerial Meeting being held today in Washington.


 


In accordance with an official statement to this effect 


released here, Ramokgopa will reaffirm in the 


conclave -- South Africa's efforts to promote 


collective actions ---- that accelerate the 


fulfillment of both national and global 


development objectives.


 


South African participation.. also seeks to continue the work 


carried out in his current pro tempore presidency of the G20.


 


Under the minister's leadership, the G20 development meeting 


last July in South Africa's Kruger National Park adopted the 


Skukuza Ministerial Declaration by consensus. This 


document established key positions on universal 


social protection --- and the fight against illicit 


financial flows.


 


At that meeting, Ramokgopa presented a statement on 


the financing of Global Public Goods, which included 


principles for international cooperation and the 


proposal to create an Ubuntu Commission to


 follow up on these initiatives.


 


The G7 meeting takes place within the framework of the annual 


meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World 


Bank Group. In addition to her intervention at the 


ministerial forum, the S. African representative 


will hold bilateral and strategic meetings.


 


According to local analysts, South Africa's presence 


in this forum reinforces its active role in global 


development governance, promoting the 


consensus reached, during his recent 


G20 presidency, and advocating --- 


for more effective South-North


 cooperation mechanisms.


 


 


____________________________







Malagasy military leader promises
 civilian government ....soon


October 16th, 2:26pm


(Prensa Latina) 


 


In Madagascar there was no coup d'état, the Constitutional 


Court declared a presidential vacancy and we took office, 


the head of the military movement that governs the 


country explained today.


 


A Coup d'état is when armed men assault the Executive mansion 


and there is bloodshed, General Michael Randrianirina told 


reporters, as the visible head of the movement that put 


the Malagasy president, Andry Rajoelina, to flight....


 now missing.


 


The president's escape was advised, after several days of street 


protests called by the online platform Generation Z
Madagascar - which at its peak - was joined by
military groups.


 


Protesters denounced the lack of public services and 


job opportunities in this African island country in
the Indian Ocean.


 


The soldier - who spoke without documentary support, also 


promised the formation of a “government made up mostly 


of civilians” ...shortly ------- without specifying the date
or political inclination of the members of that 


hypothetical cabinet.


 


 


___________________________________________


 


 


 


African Union demands: to restore 


Malagasy constitutional order


October 16th, 1pm


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The African Union (AU) reported today that it will send a high-


level delegation to Madagascar, which will dialogue with the 


parties in conflict in that country, with a view to peacefully 


restoring constitutional order.


 


An official note from the continental organization specified that


 the President of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali 


Youssouf, stressed, in this sense, the urgency --- of joining 


diplomatic efforts to establish genuine and constructive


 talks between authorities, political parties, and 


other actors.


 


After considering that such actions are carried out jointly, with the


 Community of Southern African States, the AU document detailed 


that in addition to the beginning of dialogue and consultations at 


the national level, it is expected to restore stability, social 


cohesion and the defense of governance in the country.


 


The declaration is made after the day before the AU Peace and 


Security Council suspended the participation of Madagascar 


and its institutions in all the organization's activities until 


constitutional order is restored.


 


This takes place shortly after an elite unit of the Malagasy Army 


staged a military coup in the country, and the Constitutional 


Court (TC) issued a resolution ------- on the vacancy in 


the Presidency.


 


The new Malagasy military authorities indicated that Colonel 


Michael Randrianina will be sworn in tomorrow before the 


TC, and will replace Andry Rajoelina as president of the 


country, who, after denouncing a coup d'état against 


him, took refuge -- in a place that had not been told.


 


Along with the announcement of the formation of a Transitional 


National Defense Council, the president to be confirmed 


expressed that among the first measures he will adopt


 are the annulment of the 2010 Constitution and 


other State bodies.


 


The situation in Madagascar became even more tense and 


volatile last weekend when the military joined popular 


protests, which began three weeks ago.


 


During the massive mobilizations, the protesters demanded, 


among other demands -- an end to government corruption, 


nepotism and stopping the increase in the cost of living, 


local media reported.


 


 


___________________________________________


 


 


 


Foreign Ministers of Venezuela and 


Tunisia strengthen friendship 


and cooperation


October 16th, 12:34pm


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The Foreign Minister of Venezuela, Yván Gil, and his Tunisian 


counterpart, Mohamed Ali Nafti, held a meeting today in the 


capital, to continue strengthening their ties of friendship 


and cooperation.


 


The meeting was held in the context of the final day of 


the Intermediate Summit of Foreign Ministers of the 


Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), which met for two


 days in Kampala, Uganda.


 


Gil thanked the head of Foreign Affairs, Migration and Tunisians 


Abroad for his country's solidarity in the face of the threats 


facing Venezuela and the Caribbean --- he published on 


his Telegram account.


 


The senior diplomats reaffirmed their “firm 


commitment --- to the unity of our people”.


 


As part of his agenda in the North African state, the Venezuelan 


Minister for Foreign Affairs also met yesterday with his Cuban 


counterpart, Bruno Rodríguez, to whom he expressed “deep 


gratitude for his unwavering voice in denouncing the 


dangerous military deployment of the US ---- in 


the Caribbean”.


 


The Bolivarian Foreign Minister denounced: that 


this threat “puts the lives of our people at risk”.


 


Venezuela will always reject the criminal blockade imposed 


on Cuba, as well as the unilateral coercive measures that 


affect the Venezuelan people, he stressed.


 


Gil also spoke with his counterpart from Iran, Seyed Abbas 


Araqchi, on which occasion they reviewed the broad and 


strategic bilateral alliance, which “is based on friend-


ship and the shared objective of defending our self-


determination and sovereignty”.


 


He also thanked Iran for its firm stance towards the hostilities of 


the United States Government and its unconditional support in


 the midst of ------- the disinformation campaign and threats 


directed against Venezuela.


 


The senior Bolivarian diplomat also met the day before with 


the Palestinian ambassador to the UN, Riyad Mansour, 


and he reaffirmed “Venezuela's firm solidarity with 


the Palestinian people --- and their legitimate 


historical right - to return to their lands 


and rebuild their homeland”.


 


 He considered this a fight for justice, that 


the people of the world will continue to 


firmly support.


 


The Bolivarian minister... also spoke with the Minister of
Foreign Affairs of Uganda, Haji Abubaker Jeje Odongo,
and with his counterpart from Belarus,
Maksim Ryzhenkov.

In a Special Statement released here, the NAM 


expressed its deep concern about the


ongoing developments ------ in the 


Caribbean region.


 


 


_________________________________________


 


 


 


Automotive sales in South


 Africa --- rise 1.9 percent


October 16th, 12:33pm


 (Prensa Latina) 


 


South Africa's automotive sales grew 1.9 percent year-on-year 


during August 2025, according to constant price inflation -


adjusted data from 2019, the national statistics agency, 


Stats SA, revealed today.


 


According to the report, the main boost came from the sale of 


new vehicles, which increased 9.4 percent and contributed 


2.4 percentage points to the overall result. Sales of 


accessories also contributed, with an increase of


 4.8 percent and an incidence of 0.9%.


 


In contrast, fuel marketing registered a drop of 4.2 percent,


 which subtracted 1.1 percentage points from the total 


performance of the sector.


 


Compared with July 2025, seasonally adjusted 


automotive sales rose 0.5 percent.


 


That result, adds Stats SA, adds to previous monthly increases 


of 0.9 percent in July and 0.4 percent in June, reflecting a 


moderate growth trend.


 


Additionally, during the quarter ended August 2025, the sector's 


sales increased 2.8 percent compared to the same period of


 the previous year.


 


In that period, new vehicles led growth with an increase


 of 10.2 percent, contributing 2.6 percentage points.


 


They were followed by accessories, with an increase of 6.4% 


and a contribution of 1.3 points, and used vehicles, which 


grew 2.5 percent and added 0.5 percentage points.


 


On the other hand.... when comparing the quarter ended in August 


with the previous three months, a seasonally adjusted growth of 


1.5 percent was observed. In that case, used vehicles led the 


rebound ---- with an increase of 3.3 percent, followed by new 


vehicles with 2.2 percent and accessories with 1.0 percent.


 


 


[Rhondda Records adds: lies -


damn lies - statistics - and


adjusted statistics!]


 


 


_____________________________________________


 


 


 


South African wholesale trade 


reports growth in August


October 16th, 11:34am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


South Africa's wholesale trade sector recorded year-on-year 


growth of 1.7 percent in August this year, measured at 


constant prices, as reported today by the national 


statistics office, Stats SA.


 


Official data, seasonally adjusted and based on 2019 prices, 


confirm a positive trend in wholesale sales volume.


 


Stats SA's monthly analysis reveals a one percent increase 


during August compared to July, thus marking three 


consecutive months of bullish behaviour, after 


the increases of 0.3 percent and 0.7 percent 


registered in July and June respectively.


 


The quarterly report also reflects 0.6 percent growth in 


seasonally adjusted sales.... during the three months 


ended August 2025, compared to the immediately 


preceding period.


 


When examining the results, at current prices, the 


sector's performance shows greater dynamism.


 


According to the Stats SA report, sales in nominal terms 


registered a year-on-year increase of 2.8 percent 


during the eighth month of the year.


 


That result was mainly driven by three specific categories: food, 


beverage and tobacco wholesalers experienced growth of 11.4 


percent; distributors of other miscellaneous goods recorded an 


increase of 17.6%; and operators working on commission or 


contract showed the most significant progress, with 36.5%. 


 


In contrast to these positive results, the solid, liquid and gaseous 


fuels category presented a negative performance, with a 


contraction of 4.6 percent that placed it as the main


 drag factor for the global indicator.


 


The quarterly outlook at current prices maintains this trend.


 


In the three-month period ending in August, wholesale sales 


showed growth of 0.8 percent compared to the same 


period a year earlier.


 


The same sectors that drove monthly growth maintained their 


leadership in the quarterly analysis: food, beverage and 


tobacco distributors (6.0 percent), operators by 


commission or contract (26.5 percent) and 


traders of other goods (8.1 percent).


 


 


_________________________________________


 


 


 


The Sudanese president - coordinates 


positions with Egyptian counterpart


October 16th, 10:44am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The civil war in Sudan and the common position on the dam 


built by Ethiopia on the Nile River focused the agenda of 


the Sudanese and Egyptian leaders, according to 


reports circulated here today.


 


The meeting between the Egyptian president, Abdel Fattah 


el Sissi, and General Abdel Fattah a Burhan, president of 


the Sudanese Sovereign Transitional Council (CST), 


examined the impact of the Ethiopian reservoir 


and concluded that it led to the recent floods 


in their respective countries, according to 


summaries from official sources here.


 


The construction of the Great Renaissance Dam has all the signs 


of becoming a conflict between Cairo and Addis Ababa, because 


the first depends on the waters of the Nile for its economy and 


the consumption of a population that grows by the day.


 


Ethiopians assure that the reservoir will in 


no way ....harm Egyptian rights and needs.


 


Regarding the Sudanese conflict, although implicitly, Egypt 


supports the CST in the two and a half year war with the 


Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia, led by General 


Mohamed Handan Dagalo, who.. according to 


unofficial sources - receives weapons and 


drones from the UAE, whose authorities 


refute any involvement.


 


Months ago, the RSF announced the integration of a government 


that will govern the areas under its control, but its possibilities 


of influence were dissipated by the African Union, that urged 


to ignore that parallel cabinet.


 


The Sudanese civil war caused the largest refugee crisis in history, 


14 million displaced, in addition to 24 thousand deaths, a higher 


number of injuries and the devastation of this northeastern


 African country.


 


 


__________________________________________


 


 


 


Angola recognizes Cuba's role 


in 50 years of independence


October 16th, 9:22am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


Angola recognized Cuba's support in various areas during the 50 


years of the country's independence, to be commemorated on 


November 11 and whose preparation for the celebration.....


 is underway today.


 


During the State of the Nation speech... Angola's President,
Joao Lourenco said that the cooperation received from
the Caribbean nation was essential to guarantee the
defense of sovereignty, as well as for the training
of professionals in all areas of knowledge
.....and medical care for the population.


 


Before the deputies to the National Assembly, at the opening 


ceremony of the 2025-2026 parliamentary year held the 


day before, the president highlighted the importance 


for the country of sending thousands of students 


to Cuban lands.


 


This action allowed the talent of hundreds of young people 


who now contribute to Angolan development..... to 


germinate, he noted.


 


In this sense, the work of the members of the Association of 


Former Angolan Students in Cuba, the Caimaneros, stands


 out, who in addition to their functions in different sectors 


of society, offer social projection actions such as health


 fairs in communities --- for free.


 


It should also be noted that when independence was proclaimed, 


Angola had only 19 doctors, an aspect that has been reversed -


with the support of the island and other countries, an example 


of which was the graduation on October 14 of 399 specialists 


in general and family medicine, with the mentorship of a 


hundred professionals from the Caribbean nation.


 


In the speech, Lourenço alluded to the military cooperation 


provided by Cuba and in particular, to the victory achieved 


in Cuito Cuanavale on March 23, 1988, “thanks to ------- the 


important contribution of Cuban internationalist fighters”.


 


This triumph, constituted a decisive turning point for the liberation 


of Southern Africa, leading to the signing of the New York 


Accords and the implementation of Resolution 435/78 


of the United Nations Security Council, which led to


 the independence of Namibia.


 


This contribution of Cubans has also been recognized with the 


presentation of commemorative medals for the 50 years of 


Angola's independence to three figures linked to 


military cooperation.


 


The first head of Cuba's military mission in this country,
Commander Raul Diaz-Arguelles, received distinction 


in the Peace and Development Class posthumously; 


army Corps General, Leopoldo Cintra Frías, was 


given the Independence Class personally; and 


posthumously they awarded the Peace and 


Development Class to Brigadier General 


Rafael Moracen Limonta.


 


In the province of Cuanza Sur, a hospital named Raul Diaz-
Arguelles, was also inaugurated, and, according to the 


president at its inauguration on October 21, 2024, it 


is a recognition of the thousands of Cubans who 


fought in Angolan lands -------- to preserve its


independence and sovereignty.


 


In the State of the Nation speech, the Angolan president ratified 


Angola's commitment to Cuba in the fight to lift the economic 


blockade imposed by the United States more than 60 years 


ago; a position that he also defended in his words at the 


most recent session of the UN General Assembly.


 


 


 


____________________________________________


 


 


 


DRC without new Ebola 


cases in two weeks


October 16th, 7:32am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The Ministry of Health of the Democratic Republic of the Congo 


(DRC) reported that the Ebola outbreak in Kasai province 


maintains a favourable trend - without any registration 


of new cases ---- in the last 17 days.


 


According to the agency, since the declaration of the health 


emergency in September, 53 confirmed patients have been 


reported, with 43 deaths, as well as 11 probable cases.


 


However, prevention actions, among which the vaccination 


of more than 27,600 people stands out, have allowed for 


positive developments in the fight against the disease, 


despite some logistical challenges, the ministry said


 in a statement.


 


The DRC Government faces the Ebola outbreak.... with the 


collaboration of several institutions, including the World 


Health Organization (WHO), which contributed to 


implementing a treatment centre in Bulape, 


the epicentre of the epidemic, equipped


 with 32 beds.


 


The enclave includes a two-bed intensive infectious 


disease treatment unit, which provides vital care 


to critically ill patients.


 


This is the first time that the WHO has carried out this 


innovation, having previously only carried out 


simulations in Uganda and Ghana.


 


At the same time, we are working on dialogue with neighboring


 communities to provide advice on prevention, collect samples


 for analysis or improve surveillance and early diagnosis.


 


Another line of work has been the supply of drinking 


water to the community and health centres.


 


The DRC continues to confront Ebola while also fighting two 


other epidemics: that of Mpox, which in the last week 


registered 679 new cases, without deaths, and  


experiencing a significant decrease in the 


''positive'' rate.


 


The provinces of Sankuru and South Kivu continue to be the 


most affected, while specific vaccination campaigns are 


carried out.


 


The other health emergency is cholera, which in the last 


week reported 1,148 cases and 25 deaths, for a fatality


 rate of 2.1 percent.


 


South Kivu, Tanganyika and North Kivu present the most 


complicated situation and in this case an immunization 


campaign is also carried out.


 


 


_________________________________________



Mali announces death of 

insurgents -- in offensive

October 15th, 12:19pm

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The Malian Army's containment maneuver against 

Islamist groups resulted in the death of around 

20 armed men, a military report claims today.

 

The clash occurred in the town of Dougabougou....... during 

an operation to contain the actions --- of two branches of 

Al Qaeda & Islamic State that restarted in recent weeks.

 

The communication from the military command also assures 

that the insurgents were seized with weapons and other 

means used in their actions against military bases and 

villages populated by unarmed civilians, whose 

houses they burned, in addition to looting

 their crops and livestock.

 

The report ends with the vow - that the armed 

forces -- “remain committed to the people to 

protect them and preserve their security”.

 

 

_____________________________________________

 

 

 

Foreign Minister of Venezuela --- 

at the NAM meeting in Uganda

October 15th, 12:07pm

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The Foreign Minister of Venezuela, Yván Gil, on behalf of 

President Nicolás Maduro, participated today in Uganda 

in the 19th Intermediate Summit of Foreign Ministers 

of the Non-Aligned Movement.

 

Through his Telegram social network account, the senior 

diplomat stated that he had the opportunity to - “agree 

with important allies ---- those who expressed their 

deep solidarity in the face of the military threat 

in the Caribbean”.

 

He noted that the threat represents a serious risk

to international peace, security and stability.

 

Under the pretext of fighting drug trafficking... the United States 

government deployed a military contingent in Caribbean waters 

since August of 8 missile ships, a nuclear-powered submarine, 

fighter planes and about 10 thousand troops.

 

The Bolivarian Executive, denounced to the world, and the United 

Nations Security Council ----- the escalation of war that has as its 

fundamental purpose the theft of the vast natural wealth of the

country, including oil reserves --- considered to be the largest 

on the planet.

 

 

_____________________________________

 

 

 

They will award medals for Angolan 

independence to Savimbi 

and Roberto

October 15, 2025 | 11:34

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The president of Angola, Joao Lourenco, announced today - 

that medals for the 50 years of national independence will 

be awarded to the signatories of the Alvor Agreements: 

António Agostinho Neto, Holden Roberto and 

Jonas Savimbi.

 

When delivering the speech on the State of the Nation, in front of 

the deputies to the National Assembly, the president meant that

it is a recognition .....within the framework of the spirit of 

forgiveness, peace, reconciliation and national unity 

that the date demands.... to be celebrated next 

November 11.

 

The decision was received with a standing ovation, since the issue

 had been the subject of strong debates within Parliament, since 

Savimbi's name, as founder of the National Union for the Total 

Independence of Angola (Unita), and Roberto, of the National 

Liberation Front of Angola (FNLA), had been excluded.

 

Both historical figures, who played a key role, in signing the 

aforementioned agreements, were at the centre of conflict

after the civil war that broke out in 1975 --- and kept the 

country in conflict ------ until 2002.

 

“We do not doubt that this gesture, added to the work we have 

done to dignify the victims of political conflicts and provide 

comfort to their families, is an indelible contribution to 

national reconciliation”, said President Lourenco.

 

He recalled that the path to freedom that is now celebrated 

was not easy and cost the lives of many, brought mourning 

and pain to families and shed the blood of many Angolans.

 

The same thing happened later.. with the “27 long years of war 

between children of the same land, which decimated the lives 

of millions of Angolans, they physically and mentally 

mutilated several generations and postponed our 

dreams of the dawn of November 11, 1975”,

he noted.

 

He added that achieving peace was very difficult, it required 

magnanimity, serenity and the capacity for forgiveness; as 

well as patriotic commitment, to create a solid unity of 

Angolans, rebuild the country, build the nation and 

lay the foundations for development.

 

He stated that the commemorative medals for the half century 

of independence are a fair recognition of the sacrifices that 

millions of people make every day --- so that the country 

grows and becomes one land of prosperity.

 

Also to those who, throughout these 50 years, both national and 

foreign citizens, gave their contribution to bequeath a free land

 to new generations.

 

“This - is a good way to contribute to strengthening the nation and 

inspiring our collective path”, the president said -- noting that the 

date is much more than a number, “it is synonymous with peace, 

forgiveness and the willingness to fight together ----- to achieve 

our dreams”.

 

Excited to tears, the president affirmed that united Angola will 

win, and added: that this is “a nation that learns from its 

mistakes, overcomes its challenges and celebrates 

its achievements”, a country that everyone has 

built together --------- for 50 years.

 

 

___________________________________________________________

 

 

 

Everything ready in South Africa 

for national school exams

October 15th, 10:35am

 (Prensa Latina) 

 

The South African Council for Educational Quality, Umalusi, 

today declared the national evaluation system ready for 

the 2025 final exams, that will mobilize more than a 

million students throughout the country.

 

According to Umalusi CEO, Mafu Rakometsi, although an audit 

identified areas for improvement, these do not compromise 

the credibility of the evidence. «The system is prepared 

for the conduct, administration and management of 

the exams», he stated.

 

The audit covers..... all evaluation entities, including the 

departments of Basic Education & Higher Education, 

the Independent Examination Institute and the 

South African Institute for Comprehensive 

Evaluation. More than 900 thousand 

students ---- will take the Higher 

National Certificate.

 

In total, according to the Ministry, 766,543 full-time and 137,018 

part-time candidates are registered for the tests, which will be 

carried out in more than 9,400 exam centres.... nationwide.

 

The qualification process will run from November 15 

to December 18, according to the ministry.

 

In this regard, Umalusi senior manager Mary-Antoinette Dliwayo 

explained that the audit verified the registration of candidates,

the safety of materials, & the preparation of the qualification 

centres. «All the questions have been moderated externally 

and there are adequate security measures», she assured.

 

Rakometsi also issued a strong warning -- against any 

irregularities in the exams, calling fraud - «a criminal

practice compromising the integrity of the system».

 

Likewise, he called on parents and communities to support 

students --- and protect educational centres from protests.

 

 

______________________________________



President Nandi-Ndaitwa --- Russia 

and Namibia.. have a long history

October 14th, 10:09pm

(RT.ru)

 

Russia and Namibia.. have a long history of cooperation, and

the two countries will continue to work together, President

 Nhamo Nandi-Ndaitwa said in an interview with RT.

 

"When we were fighting in the jungles of Angola, the Russians 

were with us through the USSR. When we needed to unite in 

order to stand up to.. what was then the strongest army on 

the African continent - the apartheid South African Armed 

Forces, the Russians came to our aid. And even after our 

independence, this has continued," the politician was 

quoted by RT Telegram channel.

 

Last year, Namibia also announced ---- strong

political and economic relations with Russia.

 

 

______________________________________________



South African president - reaffirms 
ministers' subjection to the law

October 14th, 11:21am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, told Parliament today 

that no member of his Cabinet is above the law and that any 

credible allegations of corruption must be investigated.

 

During a question and answer session at the National Council 

of Provinces, the president emphasized that --- if a Minister is 

charged with corruption or another serious crime, he must 

leave his position while the judicial process lasts.

 

«The fight against corruption must be based 

on the rule of law», he emphasized.

 

Ramaphosa also highlighted his government's efforts since 2018 

to rebuild law enforcement agencies ---- and strengthen the 

independence of the judiciary. He mentioned significant 

progress in investigations by the Special Investigation 

Unit (SIU), the Falcons... and the Anti-Corruption 

Investigation Directorate.

 

«These organizations have shown --- that they are not afraid to act. 

At this time, senior officials from the government, state companies 

and the private sector face trials for alleged corruption», the head

 of state stressed.

 

Regarding the accusations about his alleged link with Hangwani 

Maumela, involved in a corruption case at Tembisa Hospital, 

Ramaphosa described them as unfounded. He clarified 

that his only connection was a marriage, dissolved 

43 years ago, with an aunt of Maumela's, whom 

he did not meet personally until 2024.

 

The president expressed his confidence in the work of the SIU, 

which is already investigating the case, and urged allowing 

the institutions --- to do their work without interference.

 

He further stressed that the introduction of a monitoring 

mechanism ensures that IUS referrals are effectively

 implemented.

 

«To overcome the scourge of corruption, we must ensure that 

due process is followed without fear, favoritism or prejudice», 

concluded the South African president.

 

 

_________________________________________

 

 

 

South African vice president 

will travel to Türkiye - for 

bilateral commission

October 14th, 11:14am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

South African Vice President Paul Mashatile, a visit to Türkiye 

will begin tomorrow the 15th to co-chair the first session of 

the Binational Commission with the aim of strengthening 

cooperation between the two nations.

 

According to an official statement released today, in this capital, 

the high-level meeting, held in Ankara, allows materialization of 

an agreement signed in 2012 to establish this dialogue 

mechanism at the level of vice presidents.

 

Mashatile and his Turkish counterpart 

------ will lead the discussions.

 

The large delegation accompanying Mashatile - includes 

the Ministers of International Relations, Ronald Lamola;

 Defense, Angie Motshekga; Commerce and Industry, 

Parks Tau; Science and Technology, Bonginkosi 

Nzimande; and Tourism, Patricia De Lille.

 

He is also accompanied by the Vice Ministers of Sports,

 Peace Mabe; Higher Education, Nomusa Dube-Ncube; 

and Agriculture, Zoleka Capa.

 

This broad government representation, according to local 

analysts, reflects the strategic importance that South 

Africa attaches to this bilateral partnership.

 

According to the text, the commission's agenda is focused 

on --- promoting and coordinating political, economic and 

social collaboration. The signing of several cooperation 

agreements - in sectors such as justice, security and 

the economy is planned, as well as a review of the

 existing instruments.

 

In addition to the work sessions, the South African vice 

president's agenda includes a courtesy visit to Turkish 

President Recep Erdogan.

 

Likewise, Mashatile will participate in Istanbul 

in the fifth Türkiye Business Forum – Africa.

 

The vice president will also speak at the South Africa-Türkiye 

Business Council, with the aim of attracting investment and 

strengthening commercial ties. The economic forum is 

scheduled to close on October 17.

 

 

__________________________________________

 

 


Angola graduates 399 general 

& family medicine specialists

October 14th, 10:37am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The Ministry of Health of Angola (Minsa) today held the 

graduation ceremony --- for 399 general and family 

medicine specialists, from 17 provinces of the 

country, aimed at strengthening the primary 

care system.

 

The minister of the sector, Silvia Lutucuta, classified the 

event as a victory, since these professionals are called 

to play a strategic role in the national health system, 

with work focused on prevention and continuity of 

care, which allows early diagnosis and support 

to communities.

 

“These are lives -- that will be saved, families - that will have 

access to decent care”, the owner stressed, who thanked
everyone who made it possible for such a large number 

of these specialists to graduate in the country ---- for 

the first time.

 

Based on the Minsa Emerging Training Program, in coordination 

with various institutions and among them the Family Medicine 

Coordination of the Cuban Medical Cooperation, the training 

process began in February 2021 and concluded in 

September of this year with the evaluation of 

professional courts. 

 

Some 110 Cuban tutors participated in the program, that was 

developed in 20 health centres, a maternal and child centre, 

80 municipal hospitals and six regional hospitals..... with 

rotations in general or provincial hospitals.

 

At the end of the third year of studies, 134 interns completed 

a three-month internship in Cuba, 110 in Brazil and 117 in 

Portugal, with the aim of consolidating practical and 

comprehensive training.... learning about the 

experiences of three reference contexts 

& acquiring clinical, communicative 

and behavioural skills.

 

The representative of the World Bank in Angola, Humberto Albino, 

expressed satisfaction with the way the process went, with 

rigorous training and fully achieved objectives.

 

The institution -- which provided financing for this project, 

recognized the work done to reach this moment, and he 

noted ---- that the technical competence and human 

commitment of the graduates ----- will make a 

difference for the Angolan people.

 

Minister Lutucuta commented that the intention is to form true 

health teams for communities, so that they not only continue 

working on the preparation of general and family medicine 

specialists, but that more than 700 nurses with powers

 for these functions.... favour the population.

 

On behalf of the graduates, Dr Kama Sandra Matondo said 

the training process was a transformative experience, 

during which they were challenged to be creative,

 resilient and proactive.

 

We work in contexts of significant limitations, where 

commitment is essential; We relearned the meaning 

of the word care, not only to treat diseases, but to

prevent, cure and restore hope, he added.

 

The result, he valued, are professionals committed to the life 

and well-being of the Angolan people -- who will now face a 

challenging stage, working together with other specialists 

and creating strong teams for quality primary care.

 

 

_____________________________________________

 

 

 

Senegal - thwarts journey of

undocumented immigrants

October 14th, 9:56am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The dream of 123 undocumented migrants.. of reaching 

Spanish territory faded TODAY after being intercepted 

in Senegalese territorial waters by Senegal's Navy.

 

Although the sources of the Senegalese naval corps 

remain silent ...about the port of departure and the 

nationality of the frustrated travelers, presumably

they are subjects of sub-Saharan countries that 

were trying to reach the Canary Islands.

 

Despite the dangers involved in crossing the waters of the 

Atlantic Ocean, especially in these months of cyclone 

formation --- thousands of people risk everything, 

including their lives, to flee conflicts, poverty 

------- and the lack of opportunities left by 

colonialism in their countries of origin.

 

In accordance with statistics from the International Organization 

for Migration, since the beginning of this decade, 5,610 people 

found their grave in the Atlantic when they were pursuing the 

chimera.... of reaching European shores.

 

 

___________________________________________

 

 

 

UK will support infrastructure 

development in South Africa

[speaking of chimeras!)

October 14th, 9:54am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

South Africa and the UK signed a memorandum of 

understanding for infrastructure cooperation, 

which includes a UK contribution of almost 

half a million dollars in expertise and 

capacity development.

 

According to a ministerial statement released here -- the 

South African Minister of Public Works & Infrastructure, 

Dean Macpherson... and his UK counterpart for Trade, 

Chris Bryant, signed the document in London, giving 

continuity to preliminary agreements established 

this year.

 

The collaboration will focus on three specific areas. The 

first is the “Capstone Project”, intended to support the 

launch of a Strategic Delivery Unit to streamline high

-impact projects within the S. African department.

 

The second, the “Speed Project”, will seek to optimize the 

management of public assets to improve efficiency in the 

use of resources. The 3rd line of action will strengthen 

a municipal program... that seeks to improve the 

execution of works at the local level, in 

selected municipalities.

 

On the occasion, Macpherson stated that this alliance shows 

how international collaboration can enhance infrastructural 

development and the state's capacity to execute projects.

 “This memorandum ------ marks an important step in our 

efforts to turn South Africa into a major construction 

site”, the incumbent stated.

 

The Minister emphasized, that the agreement consolidates 

the reforms within his portfolio, ensuring that the projects 

contribute to job creation & local economic development. 

 

“Our goal is to transform abandoned buildings

 into assets for communities”, he added.

 

The initiative, according to Macpherson, will lay the foundation 

for better project preparation, improved implementation and 

training of South African public sector teams, in line with 

the vision of using public goods for the common good.

 

 

_______________________________________________





The Russian Foreign Ministry welcomed 


the successful election - in Seychelles


October 13th, 5:06pm


(Izvestia.ru)



The Russian side - welcomes the successful holding of 


elections in Seychelles and is ready for cooperation. 


This was reported on October 13 on the website 


of the Russian Foreign Ministry.


 


"In Moscow, they were pleased to hear about the
successful elections in the Republic of
Seychelles," the statement said.


 


They added - that Russia is ready to strengthen 


traditionally friendly Russian-Seychellois ties 


in the economic, political, humanitarian, 


and other spheres.


 


According to the results of the 2nd round of the presidential 


election, Patrick Ermini, a candidate from the United 


Seychelles Party, was elected as the new 


head of state.


 


On September 4, Aeroflot announced that it would launch regular 


flights to the Seychelles from September 27 and to Sri Lanka 


from October 4. Flights to Mahe Airport in the Seychelles 


will be operated twice a week, on Wednesdays 


and Saturdays.


 


 


__________________________________________________


 




 


The Russian Embassy reported -- a tense


 situation in Madagascar due to protests


October 13th, 4:34pm


(Izvestia.ru)


 


The situation in Madagascar remains tense due to the 


anti-government protests that have been ongoing on 


the island since September 25. This was reported 


to Izvestia by the Russian Embassy in the 


country on October 13.


 


"Although there were no demonstrations today.. that 


were dispersed by law enforcement agencies, the 


confrontation continues at the political level,"


 the Russian diplomatic mission said.


 


They also clarified that there have been no recent 


requests for assistance, from Russian citizens.


 


On October 11th, it was reported - that the President of
Madagascar, Andry Rajoelina, could leave the capital,
Antananarivo... after the army refused to resist
demonstrations involving young people 
and students.

RT. ru adds today --- that it was reported that the 


President ....amid mass riots, left the country
on a French military plane.


 


 


_________________________________________


Chief of the General Staff 


of the Congo visits Cuba


October 13th, 1:27pm


(Prensa Latina) 


 


Army Corps General Roberto Legrá, first vice minister of 


the Revolutionary Armed Forces (FAR), today officially 


received Major General Guy Blanchard Okoi, Chief 


of the General Staff of the Congo Armed Forces.


 


At the mausoleum of El Cacahual.... the head of the General Staff of 


the FAR also offered the visiting delegation a detailed explanation 


about the history, symbolism and architecture of the mausoleum, 


highlighting its value as a sacred space....... dedicated to the 


memory of those who gave their lives for the Homeland.


 


The Congolese general laid a wreath in tribute to the heroes of 


Cuban independence, in a gesture of respect and admiration 


from his Government towards the history of struggle of the 


Cuban people.


 


As part of its stay in Cuba, the Congolese delegation plans to visit 


sites of historical and cultural interest, as well as FAR units and 


entities, with the purpose of strengthening ties of cooperation 


and friendship between both nations, Radio Rebelde reports.


 


El Cacahual treasures the remains of Lieutenant General Antonio 


Maceo and his assistant Captain Francisco Gómez Toro, as 


well as those of other Cuban patriots.


 


 


 


_____________________________________


 


 


 


Riots in Madagascar; 


president denounces 


October 13th, 1:01pm


(Prensa Latina) 


 


Calm reigns today in this capital after the massive protests 


the day before, which had the distinctive feature of the 


participation of the military.


 


For his part, the Malagasy President, Andry Rajoelina, 


denounced the existence of an ongoing coup d'état, 


although so far.... there is no civilian or military 


statement about it.


 


Street protests denounce the lack of public services


 in this African island country in the Indian Ocean.


 


Strictly speaking, the protest movement, called through the 


internet -- by a platform called Generation Z Madagascar, 


began last September and... after an unexpected pause 


they began again this Sunday, with no acts of violence 


-- unlike the previous ones -- when unofficial sources 


reported around twenty deaths ---- in clashes with


 law enforcement forces.


 


 


 


____________________________________





 


The DRC supports the FDLR's call

------- to lay down their arms

October 13th, 12:29pm

(Prensa Latina) 

 

Various voices today support the call of the Army of 

the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to the 

Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda 

(FDLR) to dispose of their weapons.

 

The United Nations Stabilization Mission in the DRC (Monusco) 

welcomed the call made on October 10, through which, they 

urged the FDLR to surrender to the Congolese authorities 

or to the UN force itself.

 

“We have taken note of the statement and will continue to 

coordinate with the Congolese authorities to better 

understand their expectations and identify 

concrete modalities.... through which 

Monusco can respond ----- in close 

consultation with all interested 

parties” --- Mission sources
told Actualité.CD.

 

They added that this approach is fully in line with the mandate 

of the blue helmets, particularly with regard to disarmament, 

demobilization, repatriation, and reintegration.

 

They noted that, despite the tense security situation, marked by 

movement restrictions in areas under the control of the Congo 

River Alliance-March 23 Movement rebellion (AFC/M23), they 

are willing to support the voluntary repatriation of members 

of foreign armed groups.

 

The US president's advisor for Africa, Massad Boulos, also
supported the call of the Congolese Army and considered

it to be a decisive step in the implementation of the 

Washington Peace Agreement between the
DRC and Rwanda.

 

The Deputy Prime Minister and Head of Foreign Affairs of Belgium, 

Maxime Prévot, also expressed satisfaction with the call to all 

factions of the FDLR to lay down their arms.

 

“The prohibition of any collaboration between the DRC Armed 

Forces and the FDLR, and the imposition of severe sanctions

 in case of violations of such collaboration are also crucial”, 

the diplomat said.

 

He added that it is essential that these unequivocal decisions

 are translated into concrete actions on the ground and that 

all parties contribute fully to the objectives of the 

Washington Peace Agreement.

 

The Army urged the FDLR to surrender to the Congolese 

authorities or Monusco with a view to their repatriation 

to Rwanda ------- in addition to warning against any 

resistance ..and reiterating that “disarmament 

through coercion or the use of force” could 

be implemented.

 

The Congolese military authorities, who did not specify the terms or
deadline for possible disarmament, also prohibited their troops 

from collaborating with the FDLR ----- under the penalty of
severe sanctions - and they encouraged the population
to disassociate themselves from the Rwandan rebels.

 

 

___________________________________________

 

 

 

Historical links between 

Cuba and Ethiopia 

stand out

October 13th, 11:16am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

For Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez and his 

Ethiopian counterpart, Gedion Timothewos 

Hessebon, the historical ties that unite 

both nations stood out here today.

 

During a meeting held in the context of the official visit 

made by the chancellor of the Antillean nation to this 

African country, the interlocutors highlighted the 

existing ties of friendship and solidarity.

 

I conveyed Cuba's interest in deepening bilateral relations, 

---- in terms of expanding economic-commercial and 

cooperation ties, the highest representative of

 Cuban diplomacy reported --- on his profile 

on the social network X.

 

Upon his arrival the day before at the Bole international airport, 

Rodríguez was received by the head of the State of Water and 

Energy, Asfaw Dingamo and by the Deputy Director General 

for Europe and America of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 

Mulie Tarekegn.

 

During his stay in Ethiopia, the Cuban Foreign Minister will hold 

meetings with high authorities of the government and the 

African Union Commission, within the framework of 

strengthening the historic ties of bilateral 

friendship and cooperation.

 

Also participating in the meeting of the foreign ministers on 

the Cuban side were the Cuban ambassador to Ethiopia, 

Meylin Suarez, and the Cuban ambassador to the 

African Union, Lucas Domingo Hernández.

 

 

 

____________________________

 

 

 

 

''Surprise'' floods cause damage

-------- in northwest Morocco

October 13th, 10:27am

(Latin Press) 

 

Still recovering from a ten-year drought, areas of northwest 

Morocco woke up today --- flooded by colossal downpours 

that caused flooding and the interruption of life --- due 

to their magnitude.

 

The report from the national meteorological entity estimated

 the amount of water that fell in the coastal province of 

Nador in just 24 hours ---- at 66 millimetres.

 

The town presents a «Venetian» landscape due to the 

flooding of streets, homes and submerged vehicles, 

according to testimonies from sources in the 

disaster area.

 

The same informants added that in the area there are 

3 wadis (dry river beds) -- that surpassed their banks.

 

In the last 10 years, Morocco -- like its neighbour Algeria --

has suffered from a lack of rainfall that forced emergency
economic measures, including the import of products, 

among them, rams --- during the celebration of the
fast festival in the Muslim month of Ramadan.

 

The natural disaster adds to a tense social situation due 

to the eruption of street protests, in which protesters 

criticize what they describe as official corruption 

and denounce the abandonment of the public 

health and education sectors.

 

Likewise, they condemn the waste of public funds in 

organizational events ---- such as the 2030 Football

 World Cup.

 

 

________________________________

 

 

 

President Rajoelina Leaves 

Madagascar ...on a French 

Military Plane

October 13th, 10:16am

(teleSUR)

 

His departure follows unrest and an 

Army unit’s claim of control over 

the armed forces.

 

On Monday, French outlet RFI reported that Madagascar’s 

President Andry Rajoelina left the country on Sunday 

aboard a French military aircraft.

 

“His destination has not yet been disclosed, amid growing 

speculation about his whereabouts following unrest in

 the capital,” online outlet Africalix said.

 

Earlier, the Office of the Presidency had announced that 

Rajoelina would ''address the nation'' in a speech 

scheduled for 7 p.m. local time on Monday.

 

On Sunday, an insurrectionary military unit, the Army Personnel 

and Services Administration Corps (CAPSAT), claimed to have 

taken control of the Armed Forces after urging soldiers on 

Saturday to “disobey” any orders to open fire on 

the population.

 

CAPSAT previously took part in the 2009 coup that overthrew 

then-President Marc Ravalomanana and brought Rajoelina

 to power for the first time. The president has not 

appeared in public since CAPSAT expressed 

support for the protests on Saturday.

 

Although the demonstrations initially began -- over recurring water 

and power outages, the movement —— driven by Generation
Z youth  ——  became anti-government and demanded
Rajoelina’s resignation. The organizers -- rejected

the president’s proposal for a national dialogue.

 

 

__________________________________





 Cuba and Benin reiterate their 

willingness to consolidate 

bilateral ties

October 11th, 11:36am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The governments of Cuba and Benin reaffirmed their willingness 

to strengthen ties of friendship and bilateral cooperation, the 

island's Ministry of Foreign Affairs assures today.

 

The reaffirmation of the government's will was expressed during a

 meeting in Cotonou between the Cuban Foreign Minister, Bruno 

Rodríguez, and the Beninese Minister of Foreign Affairs and 

Cooperation, Olushegun Adjadi Bakari.

 

Rodríguez began an official visit to Benin, a West African 

nation, invited precisely by his counterpart.

 

According to the ministerial notification, «the parties ratified 

the positive and cordial nature of bilateral relations, based 

on friendship, solidarity and cooperation».

 

Both ministers, he adds, discussed issues of common interest 

«such as strengthening cultural ties, expanding cooperation 

--- and coordination in regional and international forums».

 

The head of Cuban diplomacy «conveyed the gratitude of the

 Cuban people and Government for the permanent support of 

the Republic of Benin to the fight against the economic 

blockade, commercial and financial tax on Cuba», 

he adds.

 

Also, it highlights, the support in the demand for the exclusion 

of Cuba from the list of State sponsors of terrorism, prepared 

unilaterally and illegally by the United States Government.

 

«The visit is a sign of Cuba's commitment to the development of 

relations with the Republic of Benin and to the strengthening of 

South-South cooperation, based on solidarity, reciprocity and 

mutual benefit», says the Cuban Foreign Ministry.

 

 

___________________________________

 

 

 

60 Killed in El-Fasher Massacre: 

RSF Drones, Artillery Devastate 

Civilian Refuge in Darfur

October 11th, 9:37am

(teleSUR)

 

RSF militias kill 60 civilians in El-Fasher, using drones 

and artillery, intensifying the siege and humanitarian 

crisis in Darfur ----- amid global inaction.

 

At least 60 civilians—including children, women, and the elderly

—were massacred in a displaced persons centre in El-Fasher, 

the capital of North Darfur, in what human rights groups 

describe as another chapter in the silent genocide 

unfolding in Sudan’s Darfur region.

 

According to the El-Fasher Resistance Committee, the Rapid
Support Forces (RSF) - Sudan’s foreign-backed paramilitaries

deliberately targeted the Dar al-Arqam displacement camp, 

where families had sought shelter from the war. “Children,

 women, and the elderly were killed in cold blood, and 

many were completely burned,” the committee 

reported, calling for ------ urgent international 

intervention against what it labeled ------ “a 

situation beyond disaster and genocide.”

 

El-Fasher remains the last major city in Darfur under Sudanese 

Army control --- making it a strategic target for the RSF. Since

the civil war erupted in April 2023 — triggered by a dispute 

between rival generals — the country has plunged into 

what humanitarian agencies call the world’s largest

 humanitarian emergency.

 

Today’s attack is part of a systematic RSF campaign to force the 

city’s surrender through terror. “Generally, the RSF has relied on 

aerial attacks to push civilians out of the city so they can 

capture it,” explained Mohamed Badawi of the African 

Centre for Justice and Peace Studies.

 

The humanitarian situation in El-Fasher is catastrophic. A UNDP 

report confirmed the total collapse of local markets, scarcity of 

affordable food, and road blockades preventing humanitarian 

aid, forcing the residents...... to survive on animal feed and 

discarded food scraps.

 

Research from Yale’s Humanitarian Research Lab, documents 

a methodical destruction campaign surrounding the city, with 

villages & displacement camps burned within a 57-kilometre
radius, providing evidence of ethnic cleansing, targeting non

-Arab communities. Investigators also identified an earthen 

barricade encircling El-Fasher ----------- strangling civilian 

movement and humanitarian access.

 

A World Looking Away

 

Despite a growing mountain of evidence and increasingly dire 

reports, the international community continues to exhibit a 

concerning and largely inexplicable silence regarding the 

escalating crisis. The International Committee of the 

Red Cross (ICRC) ------- a respected and impartial 

humanitarian organization, has meticulously 

documented and reported widespread, 

routine attacks on, and systematic 

looting of, vital health centres, 

severely impeding access to 

medical care for countless

numbers of individuals. 

 

Compounding this alarming situation, the World Health 

Organization (WHO) has highlighted the catastrophic 

collapse of the healthcare infrastructure in the 

Sudanese capital, Khartoum, noting that an 

astonishing 70% to 80% of all medical 

facilities ----- have been forced to 

cease operations.

 

“The scale of humanitarian needs in Sudan ------- is staggering. 

Unfortunately, cuts to international aid are adding salt to the 

wound,” warned Samuel Sileshi, emergency coordinator for 

Médecins Sans Frontières.

 

With tens of thousands killed and millions displaced, Sudanese 

civilians face only global indifference in what experts call one 

of the greatest human tragedies of our time.

 

Geopolitical Context

 

The El-Fasher massacre underscores the geopolitical complexity 

of Sudan’s conflict, where proxy interests fuel violence and 

deepen humanitarian collapse. The RSF’s advances not 

only challenge Sudan’s military control, but also 

destabilize the broader Sahel region, with 

potential repercussions for migration

 flows, border security, and 

regional alliances.

 

In this context, humanitarian actors stress that sustained 

pressure on foreign backers of the RSF and increased 

support for neutral aid channels.... are essential to 

prevent Darfur’s complete fall into the abyss.

 

 

_______________________________________

 

 


South African vice president ------- will 

visit Türkiye for bilateral commission

October 11th, 7:10am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

South African Vice President Paul Mashatile will make a 

working visit to Türkiye on the 15th to co-chair the first 

Binational Commission between both nations.

 

During his stay until October 17, according to a statement 

from the Presidency, Mashatile will hold meetings with 

his Turkish counterpart, Cevdet Yalmaz, within the 

framework of the mechanism established 

through an agreement signed in 2012.

 

The Binational Commission will function as a structured 

platform to strengthen and coordinate political, 

economic and social cooperation - between 

Pretoria and Ankara, according to official

 sources, according to the text.

 

The high-level dialogue will allow both parties to finalize 

pending agreements, reevaluate existing ones ----- and 

identify new areas of collaboration in sectors such 

as justice, security and social development.

 

Mashatile is expected to sign several cooperation instruments 

during his visit, which also includes a stop in Istanbul to 

participate in the V Türkiye-Africa Business Forum...

which will take place between October 16 and 17.

 

The South African delegation will be made up of the Ministers 

of International Relations, Ronald Lamola; Defense, Angie 

Motshekga; Commerce and Industry, Parks Tau; and 

Science and Technology, Blade Nzimande.

 

They will also be accompanied by the head of Tourism, Patricia 

de Lille, along with vice ministers of Sports, Higher Education 

and Agriculture, according to the official program released 

by the Presidency.

 

According to the statement -- South African participation in the 

business forum and bilateral meetings with key actors - seeks 

to boost trade relations with Türkiye, currently South Africa's 

main partner in Sub-Saharan Africa.

 

Mashatile will also speak at the South Africa-Türkiye Business 

Council and will maintain contacts with Turkish investors 

interested in the South African market, in addition to 

delivering the closing speech of the economic

 forum on 17 October.

 

 

________________________________



Angola continues renovation 

of port infrastructure

October 10th, 2:04pm

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The president of Angola, João Lourenço, today inaugurated 

infrastructure at the Port of Namibe, in the south of the 

country, which include the Sacomar Mineral Terminal 

and the Container Terminal.

 

The actions undertaken made it possible to provide the enclave 

with a greater cargo capacity, as it is expanded with a 288-

metre dock, capable of serving ships of up to 50,000 tons.

 

It is also designed for better operational efficiency, with 

cutting-edge technology to serve three thousand TEU 

containers through specialized areas for refrigerated 

cargo, safe storage and handling of bulk cargo.

 

The terminals were designed to meet the demands of 

international trade and boost exports and imports 

from the southern region of the country, which 

is on par with other projects planned in 

the territory.

 

In this regard, the head of state pointed out that the 

inaugurated facilities aim not only to receive 

minerals from the interior of the country, 

such as Huíla, Cubango and Cuando, 

but also from Namibe itself.

 

He announced that the renovation of the Namibe Bay dock 

is also in the pipeline, so... in a few years, the city of 

Mocamedes - will be completely modern, “with an

 infrastructure that will undoubtedly contribute 

to the economic development not only of the 

province, but also of the country”.

 

He also mentioned the projects linked to road and 

railway development ------ so that the Mocamedes 

railway is integrated with the port infrastructure.

 

He also announced - that the Executive plans to develop a 

national steel mill that will valorize the iron ore extracted 

from the Cassinga mines, in the province of Huíla, and 

from other places.

 

During his stay in Namibe, where he arrived the day before, 

from Brussels, Belgium, the president also inaugurated the 

provincial Cultural Centre, the result of the renovation of 

the old Studio Cinema ------ donated by the Japanese 

consortium Toyota Tsusho and TOA Corporation,

 in charge of building the port terminals.

 

Expanded and equipped with cutting-edge technology, the 

Mussungo Bitoto Cultural Centre now houses various 

artistic manifestations... that evoke the roots of 

Namibe and Angola, as well as the creative 

originality of humanity.

 

 

___________________________________





Senegal registers 17 deaths
from viral disease


October 10th, 12:32pm


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The Senegalese Ministry of Health reported today that the 


death toll rose to 17, with 119 affected, in this country 


due to an outbreak of Rift Valley fever, an ailment 


transmitted by mosquitoes ....or animals 


contaminated with the virus.


 


Boli Diop, the director of disease supervision at the health entity, 


declared that there is concern in communities in the country, 


since the viral disease, which reappeared on September 21, 


could spread on a large scale in this West African territory.


 


In the 1980s, this disease... caused the death of more than 200 


people in Senegalese territory, according to medical statistics.


 


Officials from the World Health Organization indicated that to 


control the disease it is necessary to prevent outbreaks in 


animals through vaccination and not expose oneself to 


mosquito bites.


 


Among the damages that the so-called Rift Valley fever can 


cause in humans, in the most serious cases, are eye 


damage, brain inflammation or hemorrhagic fever, 


medical sources specify.


 


 


__________________________________________________


 


 


 


South Africa asks G20 ------ to 


prioritize those most in need


October 10, 2025 | 12:32


(Prensa Latina) 


 


South African Energy Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa 


today urged the G20 --- to turn its deliberations into a 


"beacon of hope" for the most vulnerable sectors.


 


When inaugurating the IV Ministerial Meeting on Energy 


Transitions in Ballito, northern Durban, the South 


African minister emphasized that the meeting 


must privilege people over profits ---- and 


particular economic interests.


 


«This moment should not be defined by powers of economic 


power or political will, but by our shared duty to the people 


we serve», Ramokgopa told representatives of the world's


 major economies.


 


In his speech, the Minister asked to bring to the fore -- the real 


experiences of those who struggle to survive in conditions of 


poverty, lacking access to electricity, clean water, sanitation 


and basic medical care.


 


«Billions of children grow up in poverty, without education, or 


opportunities, and without the simple right to dream without 


limits. This reality ---- must be the heart of our deliberations», 


he stressed, during his speech.


 


Ramokgopa also highlighted South Africa's leadership at the 


head of the G20 over the past year, an effort he described 


as an achievement, not only nationally, but for Africa --- 


and the entire Global South.


 


According to local analysts, the meeting in Durban represents 


both a conclusion and a beginning, according to the minister, 


who is confident that future presidencies --- will continue to 


drive the results achieved under South African leadership.


 


On the occasion, the head of Energy called on the participants 


to chart a different path --- that values people above capital, 


building a world where every person has the opportunity 


to not only survive, but thrive.


 


«Let us ensure that Durban is remembered as the moment where 


we reaffirm our commitment to affordable energy, fair energy 


transitions and a future where industrialization and 


sustainability go hand in hand», he concluded.


 


The IV Ministerial Meeting on Energy Transitions of the G20... 


meets with the participation of delegations from the twenty 


most developed economies and invited countries, within 


the framework of the pro tempore South African 


presidency of the forum.


 


 


______________________________________



UN denounces increase
 in violence in Sudan


October 10th, 11:55am


 (Prensa Latina) 


 


The intensification of armed clashes between the Sudanese 


Army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) 


deteriorate the humanitarian situation and increase 


violence in this African country, the United Nations


denounced today.


 


In a statement released in this Sudanese capital, UN spokes-


person Stéphane Dujarric, warned that since the beginning 


of October, the death of more than 50 people has been 


reported in El Fasher region, capital of North Darfur.


 


According to the Sudan Doctors Network, in the last few hours 


an attack by the paramilitary group in the district caused the 


death of a dozen civilians, including children and women.


 


The recent attacks by the RSF in El Fasher -- against people 


gathered in mosques and the maternity ward of a hospital 


in that area, with dozens of deaths and injuries in both 


cases, the UN itself noted.


 


 


___________________________________


 


 


 


EU will invest more than 10 


billion USD, in South Africa


October 10th, 11:55am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The president of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, confirmed
#today an investment package from the EU for 11.5 billion
dollars for the country, aimed at promoting strategic
sectors... like renewable energy and
ecological transition.


 


During a press conference in Brussels with the president of the 


EU Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, the South African 


president described the agreement as the beginning of


 «a new era of cooperation» between both parties, as 


reflected here in a presidential statement issued for 


this purpose.


 


Resources will be directed towards the development of green 


hydrogen, renewable energy, critical minerals, vaccine 


production and electric batteries, in addition to 


modernizing infrastructure in rail transport, 


roads, ports and digital connectivity.


 


«These investments will help build the economy of the future in 


present-day South Africa», Ramaphosa highlighted, underlining


 the special focus on job training, small business development 


and scientific research.


 


According to official figures, the EU remains South Africa's 


main trading partner and source of direct foreign


investment, representing 41% of the total 


received by the African country.


 


More than 2,000 European companies currently operate in 


South Africa, generating more than half a million jobs.


 


The agreement, highlighted in the text, strengthens the objectives 


of the Clean Trade and Investment Partnership established during 


the bilateral summit in March 2024, seeking to promote 


technology transfer and sustainable industrial growth


 in African value chains.


 


Ramaphosa also expressed confidence that the collaboration will 


accelerate....... the just transition to a low-carbon economy and 


position Africa as «the next global clean production frontier».


 


Finally --- he thanked the European support for the South African 


presidency of the G20 and its agenda of solidarity, equality and 


sustainability, announcing that von der Leyen will participate 


in the G20 Leaders Summit in Johannesburg next November.


 


 


_________________________________________





 Tense pause in popular 

protests in Morocco

October 8th, 1:09pm

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The suspension of popular protests in this capital and other 

cities has organizational and regrouping purposes, the 

organizers clarified today.

 

Already in their second week, the marches criticize what they 

describe as administrative corruption, the waste of public

 funds in preparation for the 2030 Soccer World Cup 

and the abandonment of health and education.

 

The suspension of the protests expires this Thursday,

the eve of the speech that King Mohammed VI is 

due to give tomorrow, Friday, in parliament.

 

The statement clarifies that the pause also seeks 

“greater effectiveness ------- and planning”.

 

GEN Z 212, the website that called for the protests, urged 

NGOs and other social organizations in its statement to 

join the protest movement, which stars teenagers
and young people.

 

 

____________________________________________________

 

 

 

Angola --------- will host African

 development finance summit

October 8th, 12:26pm

 (Prensa Latina) 

 

Angola will host, from the 28th to the 31st of this month in 

Luanda, the third Summit on Financing for Infrastructure 

Development in Africa, which aims to mobilize up to 

160 billion dollars, they reported today.

 

The Minister of Public Works, Urban Planning and Housing, 

Carlos Alberto dos Santos, explained in a conference held 

at the Aníbal de Melo Press Centre, that the event is 

organized by the Government of Angola and the 

African Union Development Agency 

(AUDA-Nepad).

 

To date, more than two thousand delegates are expected 

to participate in the event, including heads of State and 

Government, representatives of financial institutions, 

and members of the private sector, specialists and 

other guests, with the vision of ------ mobilizing 

financial resources.

 

They also intend to share good practices and promote 

sustainable investment in critical infrastructure

 for the development of the continent.

 

He added that -- in the national context, it will allow us to 

celebrate what has been achieved in this matter - in the 

country's 50 years of independence. At the same time

 it will show efforts in the rehabilitation & expansion 

of infrastructure.... in line with the Sustainable 

Development Goals and Agenda 2063 of 

the African Union.

 

Dos Santos pointed out that there will be thematic sessions, 

bilateral meetings, business meetings, and presentations 

of projects linked to this sector ------ as well as an 

assessment of the two previous summits.

 

The president of the Board of Directors of the Private Investment 

and Export Promotion Agency (Aipex), Arlindo Rangel, noted 

that the country will present 16 structural projects related 

to transportation and logistics, renewable energy sources

 and information and communications technologies.

 

The Lobito Corridor, port infrastructure and electrical 

networks ----- stand out in the Angolan portfolio.

 

 

_________________________________________________

 

 

 

South Africa..... mediates the

South Sudan peace process

October 8th, 12:21pm

(Prensa Latina) 

 

South African Vice President Paul Mashatile, arrived in Juba 

today for a two-day working visit as special envoy to South 

Sudan, with the aim of promoting the implementation of 

the revitalized 2018 Peace Agreement.

 

During his stay, according to the visit program released here, 

Mashatile will hold talks with President Salva Kiir Mayardit 

and other signatories of the agreement, with the purpose 

of evaluating progress in the peace process.... and 

promoting stability in the African nation.

 

«We returned to this large city of Juba, to consult with relevant 

parties, and track progress in implementing the provisions and 

commitments of the Agreement», the South African envoy 

stated upon arrival.

 

Among the central points of the discussions are the drafting of 

a new Constitution, transitional security arrangements and 

preparations for the elections scheduled for December 

2025, all crucial elements ------- for the country's 

political transition.

 

The South African delegation was received by the Minister of 

Foreign Affairs of South Sudan, Monday Semaya Kumba, 

along with other senior diplomatic officials from both 

countries, which reflects the importance that both 

nations give to this mediation process.

 

South Sudan, Africa's youngest nation, continues to implement 

the peace process under the auspices of the Revitalized 

Agreement, signed in September 2018 - that seeks to 

put an end to years of internal conflict --- that have 

seriously affected the population, the text recalls.

 

Mashatile's visit represents South Africa's continued commitment 

to the peaceful resolution of conflicts on the continent, playing a 

facilitating role in complex political processes.... that require a

consensus among multiple actors.

 

According to local political analysts, the diplomatic effort is part 

of South Africa's foreign policy tradition of promoting stability 

and development in Africa, prioritizing inclusive dialogue 

as a mechanism ......to achieve lasting solutions --- to 

political challenges.

 

The success of this peace process is considered vital not only for 

the stability of South Sudan, but also for regional security in 

East Africa, an area that has experienced various 

interconnected conflicts.

 

Mashatile and his delegation are expected to hold intensive 

meetings over the next 48 hours with all interested parties, 

seeking to build a consensus that will unblock - pending 

obstacles in the peace agreement's implementation. 

 

 

_______________________________________________________

 

 


''Islamist'' groups in Mali - block the 

entry of fuel ---- into the country

October 8th, 12:18pm

(Prensa Latina) 

 

Fuel shortages in Mali worsen by the day after several weeks 

of a blockade imposed by Islamist groups on transport from 

Senegal and the Ivory Coast, local media stress today.

 

While, long lines are spreading at gasoline stations in this capital 

and residents are beginning to feel the consequences of the 

attack on oil vehicle caravans by the so-called Support 

Group for Islam and Muslims (Jnim). 

 

For political analysts, the blockade poses enormous risks to 

the fragile local economy as Mali is ranked as the 6th least 

developed nation in the world, with almost half of its 

population ...below the poverty line.

 

For its part, the Mali Oil Importers Association said more than 

100 tankers had been burned & destroyed by Khnim fighters.

 

Meanwhile, to try to reverse the situation, the Malian army 

began escorting some truck convoys on the roads 

between Bamako and the borders with Senegal 

and Ivory Coast.

 

Islamist factions such as (Jnim), an affiliate of Al Qaeda in

 the Sahel, claimed responsibility for the latest attacks 

against the convoys.

 

Mali also faces the coalition of Tuareg groups, known as Berbers, 

determined to achieve the separation of the northern region 

from the rest of the country & create an independent state.

 

Nation of the Sahel, Mali lives mired in a deep political crisis, 

which has increased after successive coups d'état that 

occurred in August 2020 and May 2021, and it is also 

affected by continuous attacks... by armed groups.

 

 

______________________________________________________

 


 

Burkina Faso arrests 

eight alleged spies.. 

for European NGOs

October 8th, 10:56am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

Burkina Faso's government today - reported the arrest 

of eight people who work for an alleged humanitarian 

organization, based in the Netherlands -- under the 

charge of espionage in favour of foreign powers.

 

Burkinabe Security Minister Mahamadou Sana indicated 

that these individuals, who work for the International 

Security Organization based in the European state, 

were ''dedicated'' ..... to providing confidential 

security information.

 

According to the source, the entity collected and recorded 

confidential information about the Army of this country, 

which included, among other data, areas of operation, 

routes followed & number of operational personnel.

 

In addition to revealing the positions of military personnel, the 

denounced NGO surreptitiously and illegally dedicated itself 

to the systematic collection of “all types of information 

related to political activities, administrative and 

security of the country”, summarized the 

head of Security.

 

Directors of the questioned NGO rejected the arrests, for their 

part, and alleged that this entity has operated in this West 

African territory since 2019 to support other NGOs based 

here with information.

 

The authorities of Burkina Faso.... where a military junta has 

governed since 2022, reiterated on several occasions, their 

commitment to defending national sovereignty in a context 

marked by an uptick in insecurity fueled by the activity of 

extremist groups, such as the Islamic State.

 

 

______________________________________________

 


 

South Africa consolidates 

African priorities in 

G20 presidency

October 8th, 10:51am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The South African Presidency of the G20 consolidates itself as

 an African platform, that prioritizes continental development 

and the reform of the global financial architecture, the Vice 

Minister of International Relations, Alvin Botes, stated.

 

Speaking at a public dialogue of the Southern African Liaison 

Office (SALO), Botes stressed that the upcoming G20 summit

 in Johannesburg, next November ------- will mark an historic 

milestone, as it is the first to be celebrated on African soil.

 

«This - is not a G20 that simply takes place in Africa, it is an 

African G20 at its core, which defends the aspirations of 

emerging economies», the diplomat stated during his 

speech at the event organized by SALO.

 

In his speech, Botes also stressed that South African 

management, under the motto «Solidarity, Equality, 

Sustainability», is guided by the legacy of historic 

leader Oliver Reginald Tambo, and the principles 

of the Bandung Conference: focused on justice 

and equity, on the multilateral stage.

 

Among the concrete achievements...... the vice chancellor 

highlighted the creation of the Extraordinary Committee 

of Experts on Global Inequality, chaired by Nobel Prize 

winner Joseph Stiglitz, and the G20 Cooperation 

Agenda with Africa (ACA), which functions as 

a roadmap for investments in productive

 sectors on the continent.

 

The senior official also pointed out progress in the recanalization 

of Special Drawing Rights, towards African development banks,

and in the reform of Multilateral Development Banks ------
all historical demands of the region.

 

The South African presidency has organized G20 meetings in 

countries such as Egypt, Nigeria and Ethiopia, expanding 

continental participation. In addition -- it has placed 

crucial issues such as fair energy transition, food 

security and artificial intelligence governance 

- on the agenda. 

 

Botes also emphasized how Africa is no longer a peripheral actor 

in the global economy, but rather affirms its legitimate place in 

international economic governance, with the African Union

--- as a full member of the G20.

 

The diplomat concluded by reaffirming the commitment that the

 legacy of South Africa's pro tempore presidency constitutes: a 

tangible economic transformation for Africa, ensuring that the 

continent's resources drive both its growth ------ and 

sustainable development.

 

The Johannesburg summit, scheduled for November 22-23, is 

expected to be a defining moment to demonstrate that the 

leadership of the Global South can deliver substance, 

stability and solidarity, on the international stage.

 

 

______________________________________________________

 

 

 

South Africa: denies funding 

return of detained activists

October 8th, 10:23am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The Government of South Africa today denied financing the return 

of local activists of the Sumud Global Flotilla, detained in Israel, 

and specified that its management was strictly diplomatic -
to facilitate their repatriation.

 

In a statement, the Foreign Ministry categorically denied the 

allegations about state financing, explaining that the return

 of the citizens was paid for by their families and 

solidarity groups.

 

“The role of the South African Government has been diplomatic 

facilitation and contact with all relevant parties”, stressed the 

Ministry of International Cooperation and Relations.

 

The activists, including Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandla Mandela and 

writer Zukiswa Wanner, arrived at OR Tambo International 

Airport today.

 

Previously, after their release, they had landed in Jordan, where 

they were received by the South African ambassador to that 

country, Tselane Mokuena.

 

The Chancellor, Ronald Lamola, reiterated the deep gratitude of 

the South African Executive to all the actors who cooperated 

to reach a successful solution.

 

The Sumud Global Flotilla, an international civil society initiative, 

set sail from Barcelona, Spain, at the beginning of September 

with the aim of delivering humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip 

and making the critical Palestinian situation ----- apparent.

 

The vessels were intercepted by Israel in international waters, 

resulting in the arrest of more than 470 people on board 

who were held for several days in Israeli territory.

 

 

____________________________________




133 people linked to drugs


 arrested in Nigeria


October 6th, 12:24pm


(Prensa Latina) 


 


Nigerian police reported today that they arrested 133 alleged 


criminals in Jigawa state following a raid in which they 


seized a huge one in that territory amount of drugs.


 


Command spokesman Lawan Shiisu Adam said that among the 


narcotics seized were marijuana and Exol and D5 tablets, 


substances considered very dangerous.


 


Through the coordinated state operation, cash and means of 


transportation were also recovered, including a motorcycle


 linked to drug trafficking, the source said.


 


He further stated that the suspects, who will be tried by courts, 


are being held under arrest on charges of alkaloid trafficking, 


possession of prohibited substances, and related crimes.


 


In Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa with more than 


200 million inhabitants -- police raids against drug traffickers 


and alkaloid distributors are frequent, considering that drug 


consumption affects the high rates of assaults and violent 


crimes in this African country.


 



______________________________________


 



 


ICC condemns African
militia chief... from
Darfur, Sudan


October 6th, 11:35am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The International Criminal Court (ICC) -- today convicted 


Ali Muhammad Ali Abd Al Rahman, head of a Sudanese 


militia, for war crimes and crimes against humanity 


committed twenty years ago during the civil war 


in the region.


 


Known by the nom de guerre Ali Kushayb, he was found 


guilty of multiple crimes, including rape, murder and 


torture committed in the Sudanese capital 


between 2003 and 2004.


 


The courtroom is ''convinced'' that the accused is guilty 


beyond a reasonable doubt of the crimes with which


 he is accused, declared Judge Joanna Korner, 


president of the ICC. The sentence will
be pronounced later, he said.


 


The prosecutor accused Abd Al Rahman of being a senior 


official in the Arab militias called Yanjawid, and of 


actively participating in the commission of the 


crimes. However --- he always denied the 


accusations, although he voluntarily 


surrendered in 2020.


 


Fighting began in 2003 in Darfur when rebels, claiming to be 


victims of ethnic discrimination, took up arms against the 


government of Al Bashir --- who reacted by deploying 


Yankee militias, formed by members of nomadic 


groups in the region.


 


According to the UN, the conflict in Darfur, which 


ended in 2020, left 300,000 dead and
2.5 million displaced.


 


But since April 2023, Sudan has been experiencing a war 


between the army and the paramilitaries of the Rapid 


Support Forces (FSR).


 



 [Rhondda Records adds:
the ICC ------ is racist.]




_______________________________________


 


 


 


Sahrawis condemn trade pact 


between the EU and Morocco


October 6th, 10:51am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The Polisario Front describes the trade agreement between 


the EU and Morocco as a clear violation of international 


legality, in a statement circulated today in the Capital.


 


The pact between the EU and Rabat came into force last 


Friday, which ignores the rights of the Sahrawi people 


and their legitimate representative, El Frente 


Polisario, the text alleges.


 


It is a clear violation of judicial rulings issued by courts on 


the occupied territory, adds the statement released by 


the SPA news agency.


 


We strongly condemn this new agreement that includes 


products from Western Sahara controlled by the Rabat 


army, which ignores the rights of the Sahrawi people 


and their legal representative.


 


The Polisario Front is the political arm of the Sahrawi Arab 


Democratic Republic, whose People's Liberation Army 


fights the Moroccan military forces that occupy 


areas of that territory.


 


 


_______________________________________


 


 



South African companies seek to 


expand exports at European fair


October 6th, 10:21am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


South African companies participating in the Anuga 2025 fair, 


in Cologne, Germany, hope to conclude new contracts and 


expand their presence in European markets, supported 


by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and 


Competition (Dtic).


 


According to a ministerial statement circulated here today, the 


event, which runs until the 8th, is the largest world food and 


beverage fair, and brings together producers, international 


distributors and buyers, with the intention of facilitating 


access to global markets and promoting export-


based industrialization.


 


Anuga, with 36 editions held, attracted more than 7,900 companies 


from 118 countries and some 140,000 visitors from more than 200 


nations in 2023, consolidating itself as a strategic platform for


 the diversification of South African exports.


 


South African participation in Anuga - is part of the DTIC's strategy 


to diversify markets and strengthen the country's export capacity, 


aiming at job creation and sustainable economic development 


through dynamic and competitive foreign trade.


 


Thus, according to reports from the event, Thobeka Ndabula, 


general director of Zazi Productions of Johannesburg, 


highlighted the opportunity to present its ready-to


-drink juices and nuts to European importers.


 


He stated that the company will expand its production capacity 


to respond to external demand and hopes to reach concrete 


agreements during the fair.


 


For his part, Theo Adams, manager of Kaukou, a honeybush tea 


producer in the Cape Garden Route region, aimed at increasing 


its international sales --- and consolidating its presence in the


Europe market, where they already have a limited presence.


 


Meanwhile, Chantelle De Bruyn-Motshabi, the director of Buttercup 


Farmhouse, located in Bloemfontein, expressed enthusiasm ---- for 


introducing his unique plant-based coffee and for opportunities to 


build lasting relationships with international buyers and retailers.


 


 


_________________________________________



The Secret Hand of the West: How the
 Ukrainians Ended Up on the Side
of the Rebels in Sudan


by Peter Ermilin


0ctober 6th, 2:33am


(Pravda.ru)


 


Ukrainian mercenaries... were eliminated during the fighting in 


Darfur, where they supported the rebels from the group Rapid 


Support Forces (RSF, "Rapid Reaction Forces"), according to


 the US military magazine Military Watch Magazine (MWM). 


 


In a new article that the author publishes, of a translation 


of Pravda.Ru, the author tells about the defeat of foreign 


mercenaries and the role of Ukraine in African conflicts.


 


Ukrainian mercenaries were eliminated during operations in the 


Darfur region of Sudan ----- after they were sent to support the 


Western-backed rebel group Rapid Support Forces, which is 


waging war - against the Sudanese state. The Sudanese 


Armed Forces reported -- that the Ukrainian units were 


neutralized during the 6th Infantry Division's offensive 


against the besieged city of El Fasher, the capital of 


North Darfur.


 


The offensive also resulted in "heavy losses of manpower and 


equipment." The attack also resulted in the elimination of 


Colombian mercenaries. The armed forces' statement 


noted that among the foreign specialists who were 


eliminated were "engineers in the field of drones 


and electronic systems" who were "trying to


 infiltrate the outskirts of the city."


 


The deployment of Ukrainian personnel ------ to support rebellions 


against governments outside the Western sphere of influence is 


not the first time this has happened. Ukrainian drone operators 


have been active in Syria since 2023, where they have 


assisted Western, Turkish, and Israeli groups fighting 


against the Syrian government. 


 


In several West African countries from where French forces have 


recently been expelled, particularly in Mali, it has also been 


widely reported that Ukrainians are providing assistance 


to rebels, particularly in the field of drones. These 


accusations were supported by videos showing 


the rebels posing with Ukrainian soldiers.


 


A Sudanese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said in June that 


Ukraine's actions were carrying out the West's "dirty work" 


in several African countries. Ukrainian forces were also 


seen in Hong Kong in 2019 ------ where they supported 


Western-backed riots against the local government.


 


The Rapid Support Forces group makes extensive use of foreign 


mercenaries ---- who make up the bulk of its personnel. These 


mercenaries, are predominantly from Chad and other Central 


African countries. Sudanese sources also report that a 


small number of Australian specialists are working 


with the RSF ------- providing command and 


management services.


 


Since 2024, Colombian mercenaries have made up a significant 


portion of the RSF contingent, as confirmed by both Sudanese 


and Colombian government sources. In early August, the 


Colombians suffered particularly heavy losses -- when 


the Sudanese Air Force shot down a transport plane 


near Nyala Airport in southern Darfur. The plane 


was carrying over 40 Colombian contractors.


 


 


___________________________________



Nicaragua greeted Lesotho

 for the 59th anniversary of

 its independence

October 4th, 1:35pm

 (Prensa Latina) 

 

The Government of Nicaragua conveyed its greetings to the 

Kingdom of Lesotho on the occasion of celebrating today 

the 59th anniversary of the independence of that 

African nation.

 

In a message addressed to His Majesty, King Letsie III, 

the Sandinista Executive expressed its most sincere 

congratulations to the people and Government of 

that country, highlighting the ties of friendship 

and respect that unite both nations.

 

“From our Nicaragua, Always Blessed and Always Free, receive

 the greetings and respect of the Nicaraguan people to the 

people of Lesotho”, the message signed by co-presidents 

Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo, concluded.

 

The independence of Lesotho, a former British colony, marked the 

beginning of a stage of political and social self-determination for 

that nation located in southern Africa -- recognized for its active 

participation in the Southern African Development Community 

and in international forums ---- in favour of sustainable 

development and peace.

 

 

_______________________________

 

 

 

Monusco: condemns increase 

in violence in eastern DRC

October 4th, 10:48am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The United Nations Stabilization Mission in the Democratic 

Republic of the Congo (Monusco) strongly condemned the 

escalation of violence in the territory of Djugu, province 

of Ituri, through a statement released today.

 

The message rejected actions such as those that occurred on 

October 2, when clashes between elements of the Congo 

Development Cooperative (Codeco) and the Zaire group 

in the village of Maze caused the death of about 13 

people, including displaced civilians and at least 

seven members of armed groups.

 

Monusco also noted that on the night of October 2 to 3, shots 

attributed to unidentified men were recorded in Gina, about 

30 kilometres northeast of Bunia ---- which caused the 

displacement of approximately 2,500 civilians to the 

UN force base, where they received protection.

 

The note highlighted the deep concern about these acts 

of violence, which could constitute serious violations 

of international humanitarian law and fundamental 

human rights.

 

It expressed its condolences to the affected families and 

communities and reaffirmed his full solidarity with them, 

while - urgently - urging the Congolese authorities to 

conduct impartial investigations and bring those 

responsible to justice, without delay.

 

The deputy special representative of the UN Secretary General 

in the DRC for Protection and Operations, and acting head of 

Monusco, Vivian van de Perre, said it meant that the blue 

helmets reinforced their presence at critical points in 

Ituri, intensified patrols and closely coordinated 

the protection of civilians with the Army.

 

“Monusco urges --- all armed groups to strictly respect the 

commitments made under the Aru II Peace Agreement, 

immediately cease hostilities against the civilian 

population and adopt a non-violent path 

towards lasting peace”, the 

statement said.

 

The message added a strong condemnation of the militarization 

of internally displaced persons settlements and reiterated its 

determination to collaborate with Congolese authorities and 

local communities to prevent further attacks, protect the 

most vulnerable, reduce tensions...... and support the 

stabilization of areas affected by armed violence.

 

 

 

__________________________________





They urge ------ the establishment of 


African Union financial institutions


October 3rd, 12:30pm


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The eighth session of the Specialized Technical Committee (CTE) 


on Finance, Monetary Affairs, Economic Planning and Integration 


concluded today with a call to accelerate the establishment of


 the African Union's financial institutions.


 


The event, held in Johannesburg, South Africa, under the motto: 


“Reducing the health financing gap in Africa -- in a changing 


geoeconomic context: challenges and possible solutions”, 


he also spoke out in favour of strengthening the 


continent's credit rating agency.


 


Participants also urged Finance Ministers and Central Bank 


Governors to push forward recommendations on debt, 


domestic resource mobilization, health financing 


and Africa's common position on global 


financial reforms.


 


These efforts are essential to guarantee compliance with the 


objectives of the 2063 Agenda for financial sovereignty and 


inclusive growth, highlighted the meeting, which included


 high-level dialogues and technical debates.


 


During these days - the report on Africa's progress and challenges 


on the path towards integration was also presented, which noted 


that despite the progress, intra-african trade is still below 16 and 


18 percent, while free movement protocols.... remain unratified.


 


The AU Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, 


Integration & Minerals, Francisca Tatchouop Belobe, commented 


on the publication that offers crucial information to accelerate 


the 2063 Agenda and deepen continental integration.


 


In this regard, he mentioned that industrialization and value 


addition are still in their infancy, meanwhile, most regional 


integration programs lack sufficient funds.....  and depend 


too much on external financing to reach their objectives.


 


He also addressed the challenge of peace and investing in 


shared infrastructure: transportation, energy, water and 


digital connectivity.... since no country can integrate 


in isolation.


 


 


_______________________________________________________


 


 


 


Government ready to hear complaints, 


says Moroccan prime minister


October 3rd, 11:02am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, assured today that his 


government, is ready to meet the demands of the protesters who 


have been shaking this North African country for nearly a week.


 


The street demonstrations here and in other cities, causing three 


deaths and hundreds of arrests and injuries - demand attention 


from the education and health sectors ---- which they consider 


abandoned, while the authorities spend enormous resources 


in preparations for the 2030 Soccer World Cup, scheduled 


for this capital.


 


The head of the Government said in a meeting with his ministers 


that political parties ask protesters to control themselves, be 


aware, sacrifice, be good citizens and love their country, 


but they don't listen.


 


He added that the Protesters --- have 


not made a single public statement.


 


The street demonstrations, rudely confronted by the Royal 


Gendarmerie, carried out mostly by young people, broke 


out at the beginning of this week, called by the 


GENZ 212 platform ------- which declared a 


“strategic withdrawal” the day before.


 


For its part, hours ago, the Moroccan Prosecutor's Office issued 


a statement in which it warned that the demonstrations are not


part of the right to expression and threatened the participants 


with severe prison sentences, including life imprisonment.


 


 


_______________________________________________


 



 


DRC and Rwanda meet again 


to reach a peace agreement


October 3rd, 10:58am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


For the third time, representatives of the Democratic Republic of 


the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda met to address the completion of 


the peace agreement signed on June 27, radio Okapi 


reported today.


 


The meeting of the Joint Oversight Committee (IOC), held
the day before with the participation of mediators from
the US, Qatar, Togo (facilitator of the African Union)
and the African Union Commission, recognized
the persistence ----- of challenges to the
implementation of the agreement.


 


In this sense..... the neutralization of the Democratic Liberation 


Forces of Rwanda and its associated factions was mentioned, 


as well as the withdrawal of forces from Rwanda and the


 lifting of defensive measures.


 


Both parties finalized the operation order presented by the Joint 


Security Coordination Mechanism, said the source, who added 


among the aspects awaiting implementation, is access of the 


International Committee of the Red Cross -- to all detainees.


 


During the meeting they highlighted the urgency of complying with 


what was agreed in the documents and translating it into facts, 


as well as abandoning all hostile rhetoric, particularly in 


international forums.


 


The Committee is due to hold its fourth meeting following the 


Joint Security Coordination Mechanism, which is scheduled 


for October 21 and 22.


 


Meanwhile, in the east of the DRC, tensions are increasing in the 


territories of Uvira, in the province of South Kivu, and Walikale, 


in North Kivu, with a notable reinforcement in men and teams 


by the Congo River Alliance-March 23 Movement (AFC/M23), 


which has the support of Kigali.


 


 


_______________________________________________



Protests in Madagascar
 are paused

October 2nd, 1:01pm

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The deep political crisis on this African island in the 

Indian Ocean went on pause today after opposition 

protesters declared a “strategic withdrawal”.

 

For their part, the ambassadors of six countries: Germany, 

France, Great Britain, Japan, South Korea, Switzerland 

and the EU called on the government and protesters 

to start a constructive dialogue.

 

Earlier this week, in an apparent effort to calm things down, 

Malagasy President Andry Rajoelina dissolved the cabinet, 

but the street protests continued and to date have left a 

trail of 22 dead among the Protesters.

 

The riots led by young people were triggered, due to what 

protesters describe as bad government and the serious 

problems faced by all public services.

 

 

_______________________________

 

 

 

Pro-government candidates win 

legislative elections in Gabon

October 2nd, 11:54am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

Opposition parties today denounce what they describe as 

massive fraud in the legislative elections won by the 

candidates of the political group in government.

 

In the first round of the elections, the candidates of the 

Democratic Union of Builders party monopolized 55 

of the 145 seats in the National Assembly.. in 

accordance with the calculation released

 by the Ministry of the Interior.

 

The second consultation is scheduled for October 11, 

although one of the protest leaders, Alain Claude 

Bilié-By-Nze -- of the Together for Gabon Party, 

demanded an annulment of the consultation, 

for what he described.. as “huge frauds” 

and irregularities during the vote.

 

In the second call, 77 constituency seats will be in dispute

 in which none of the candidates obtained the majority 

required to claim victory.

 

 

_____________________________


 

 

Díaz-Canel describes meeting
with the Foreign Minister of
Namibia --- as excellent 

October 1st, 12:08pm

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The president of Cuba, Miguel Díaz-Canel, today described 

as excellent the meeting he held with the chancellor of 

Namibia, Selma Ashipala-Musavyi.

 

“We treasure the historical friendship that 

unites us”, he highlighted.

 

During the dialogue, held the day before, the head of state 

highlighted that the newly established Intergovernmental 

Commission between Havana and Windhoek - will mark a 

milestone in strengthening and expanding bilateral ties, 

which he classified as: at an “excellent political level” 

....and in progress in the economic, commercial and 

cooperation fields.

 

Díaz-Canel stressed that this mechanism “we only establish it 

with very sister nations, such as you”, at the same time, he 

highlighted the deep historical and emotional significance 

of the visit of the African delegation.

 

«This visit, for us, has several meanings: one is the continuity 

of our relations, of our historical relations, honoured by the 

friendship between the founding father of the Republic of 

Namibia, Sam Nujoma, and Commander in Chief Fidel 

Castro, and they have continued in all these years», 

he stated.

 

The Cuban president described the ties between both nations as 

endearing and unique relationships, based on affection, respect, 

solidarity, affection and mutual admiration.

 

He ratified the willingness.. to “continue expanding our 

collaboration, in all the sectors that you have raised 

--- in this Intergovernmental Commission: health, 

education, construction, hydraulic resources, 

in biotechnology, also cultural, educational, 

and sports exchange, receiving students

 from Namibia in Cuba, and in any other

 sector or field ..we can”.

 

For her part, the Namibian Minister of International Relations

 and Trade... thanked the head of state for the welcome and 

conveyed “warm greetings from your brother,
our President”.

 

Regarding the Intergovernmental Commission, she pointed 

out that for her country's leadership --- it represents
“a very important, profound mechanism”.

 

The chancellor valued that although times are difficult, «they also 

represent an opportunity for the countries of the South to unite 

and reject what is happening, and also to show the world 

that we ...have everything we need”.

 

 

_____________________________________

 

 



The first Cuba-Tanzania Workshop

on Traditional Medicine


prospers 

October 1st, 11:15am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

The Cuba-Tanzania workshop on traditional medicine, the first of 

its kind on the Caribbean island and accredited by the National 

Council of Scientific Health Societies --- until tomorrow, brings
together specialists from both nations in this capital.

 

It is a space for technical and scientific dialogue that is committed 

to the consolidation of good practices in this area, with the 

participation of representatives of universities, 

pharmacists and traditional medicine 

practitioners, as published on its 

website by the Ministry of 

Health (Minsap).

 

Relevant topics are addressed --- such as the Cuban program for the

development and generalization of natural and traditional medicine; 

Tanzania's experience in complementary medicine; the cultivation 

and collection of medicinal plants in the Greater Antilles; and the 

pharmaceutical productions, using natural products.

 

According to Dr. Johann Perdomo, head of the Department of Natural 

and Traditional Medicine at Minsap, this event called Cuba-Tanzania 

Scientific Exchange Workshop 2025, responds to an initiative 

promoted by the Tanzanian embassy in Cuba and Minsap, 

says the source.

 

It reaffirms the commitment of both countries to the sustainable 

development of ancestral medical practices, integrated into 

public health systems, for the benefit of their people, 

noted the doctor.

 

 

_________________________________

 


Forestry and fishing drive


 coastal development


 in South Africa


October 1st, 9:55am


(Prensa Latina) 


 


The forestry and fishing sectors are today considered essential 


drivers for rural and coastal development in South Africa, 


contributing significantly to the economic growth of


 South Africa, said the minister of the sector, 


Dion George.


 


For the head of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment, the key role of 


these industries allows not only to promote job creation, but also...


support thousands of families and promote social transformation in 


regions usually marginalized from the national economic narrative.


 


Recent data put forward by the Ministry before the press show 


solid growth in agriculture, forestry and fishing ...during 2024 


and the first half of 2025, periods in which other productive 


branches faced difficulties.


 


At the centre of that push is the Commercial Forestry Master Plan, 


approved in 2019, which seeks inclusive development ----- by 


transferring state plantations to local communities.


 


That strategy, George said, has opened up new opportunities in 


wood production and processing, creating jobs in rural areas.


 


In the fishing field, the government has formally recognized 


nearly 10,000 artisanal fishermen grouped in 171 


cooperatives - distributed in four provinces.


 


Supported by co-management programs, controlled abalone 


breeding and technical advice, these groups access 


resources that increase their income and 


economic resilience, he added.


 


In this context, the «Fishing for Freedom» campaign has revitalized


 South African ports, transforming them into poles of diversified 


economic activity that includes fish processing, ship repair, 


tourism and hospitality services.


 


The Minister stressed --- that each strengthened cooperative and 


each restored port demonstrate that environmental protection


 and job creation ------ are not antagonistic objectives, 


but complementary.


 


“Sowing trees, empowering cooperatives and revitalizing ports are 


clear examples that rural and coastal economies.. do not wait on 


the sidelines, but rather, lead South Africa's growth narrative”, 


he concluded.


 


 


______________________________________________________________







DRC: Conflicts killed over 

1,080 citizens since June

October 1st, 8:38am

(Prensa Latina) 

 

From June to this day, the United Nations Organization 

Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of

 the Congo (MONUSCO) has killed 1,087 civilians

 in acts of violence in the Ituri and North

 Kivu provinces.

 

The UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative in the DRC 

and head of that force, Bintou Keita, made the remark to the 

Security Council and emphasized that peace in the country 

remains a promise, as there are gaps between progress 

in the signed documents and the reality on the ground.

 

Keita explained in a meeting on Tuesday the current situation 

in eastern Congo, marked by the violence of hundreds of 

armed groups and the occupation of territories by the 

Congo River Alliance-March 23 Movement (AFC/M23), 

with which the clashes continue.

 

Despite the Security Council’s decisions and the progress 

represented.. by the agreement signed in Washington 

between the DRC and Rwanda, and the Declaration 

of Principles between the Congolese government 

and AFC/M23 rebels, there is no real ceasefire.

 

Keita also lamented the funding shortage for aid to 

vulnerable populations, which is increasing daily 

due to violence and displacement.

 

 

_________________________________
 


 


 


Tinubu Marks Nigeria Independence Day 


With Optimism - on Economic Recovery


October 1st, 5:31am


(teleSUR)


 


Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said on Wednesday, 


that the country is starting to overcome the worst cost


-of-living crisis in a generation ----- and defended his 


government’s tough economic reforms ------- as 


“fundamental” ---- to reviving the weakened 


national economy, as Nigeria celebrates 


65 years of independence.


 


“I am pleased to report that the worst is behind us. The sacrifices


 are beginning to bring relief. Our economy, is recovering: in the 


second quarter of 2025 --- GDP grew by 4.23%, inflation fell
to 20.12% in August, and foreign reserves reached $42 billion, 


the highest level since 2019,” Tinubu stated, in a speech 


marking the country’s 65th Independence Anniversary.


 


Tinubu... defended his government’s sweeping reforms — most 


notably scrapping fuel subsidies and unifying exchange rates


— measures that fueled inflation and public anger but which 


he argued were --- unavoidable --- to rescue Nigeria’s 


struggling economy.


 


He argued that Nigeria faced a choice between economic collapse


 and bold action, and that his administration opted for reform — a 


decision he says is now beginning to yield results.. less than


 three years later.


 


He called on state governments to work with Abuja, in reshaping 


Africa’s largest economy from one driven by consumption ---


 to one rooted in production


 


Nigeria, home to over 230 million people and a leading oil 


producer, is pushing for renewed growth. Tinubu has set


 a target of 7% annual GDP expansion by 2027, aiming 


to lift millions out of poverty ---- and quadruple the 


economy’s size.. by 2030.


 


Since taking power in May 2023, the president has devalued the 


naira and removed subsidies on fuel and electricity — policies 


that unleashed the worst cost-of-living crisis in decades but, 


he maintains, are ''laying the groundwork'' for recovery.


 


 


____________________________________


All Africa music winners

Image: Sudan's Wazza instrument

will africa solve hunger by 2030?

Image: bust of queen Nefertiti

ONE UNION

Two weeks before Brexit, the African Union

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

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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.

Rise up, Africa!




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