Morocco exceeds 14 million tourists
Rabat, September 7th, 12:40om
(Prensa Latina)
Some 14.1 million tourists visited Morocco until
last August, media outlets reported today.
According to the figures released, this number of visitors
represents an increase of 4.5 percent compared to the
same stage in 2025.
The Ministry of Tourism, Crafts and Social and Solidarity
Economy said there are about 608,000 more tourists.
He added that Morocco also exceeded two million visitors
in the month of August, an increase of three percent
compared to August 2025.
That organization considered that these numbers are a
reflection of the solid recovery of tourism and the
ability of the sector to maintain a sustained rate
of influx, especially in the summer stage.
Minister Fatim-Zahra Ammor, stressed at a press conference
that this growth is part of a dynamic that he called on to
continue and pointed out that the 2023-2026 Roadmap
allows efforts to be concentrated on... strengthening
the competitiveness of tourism.
The strategy aims to consolidate the national tourism offer and
strengthen the contribution of the sector to the economy and
employment, the official said.
He pointed out that the investments made in the tourism area are
beginning to produce effects both in the number of visitors
and in the economic and social impact.
_____________________________________
Ethiopia expresses interest in
energy investments at the
Dubai forum
Abu Dhabi, September 7th, 10:25am
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopia plans to expand its clean energy generation capacity
and increase the export of electricity to countries of the
Common Market for Electricity in East Africa & beyond,
President Taye Atske-Selassie said here today.
Speaking at the 15th Annual Investment Congress, held at
the Dubai World Trade Centre from September 7 to 9,
Selassie mentioned clean energy as the first of
5 strategic investment priorities
for the continent.
He described this initiative as a key driver for industrial
transformation and sustainable economic growth,
urging African countries - to accelerate their
investments in solar, wind, geothermal
and hydropower.
At the same time, he specified that they diversify their energy
matrix to meet the growing demands of industrialization.
He acknowledged the sector's progress.... in countries such as
Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, Ghana
and Kenya, stressing that an expanded and reliable energy
supply is essential -------- for Africa's industrial and
economic transformation.
For Ethiopia, the head of state said, renewable energies represent
much more than a source of electricity. "Clean energy is not
simply a national asset, but a foundation..... for rapid
economic growth," he said.
He reported that Addis Ababa has an estimated potential of 60,000
megawatts of renewable energy ,and aims to reach a generation
capacity of 15,000 megawatts by 2030, with plans to expand
electricity supplies through the East African Common
Electricity Market.
It also plans to extend this service to neighbouring nations through
this regional network, thus strengthening its role in the energy
integration of the area, he said. He highlighted that Ethiopia's
relatively affordable, reliable electricity supply is attracting
more investment...... in advanced digital infrastructure.
Beyond the energy sector, the Ethiopian president identified
agriculture, critical minerals, infrastructure and strategic
corridors, as well as human capital, as four additional
priorities for Africa's investment and
economic transformation.
He considered that infrastructures and strategic corridors are
essential for the economic integration of the continent,
especially at the current time..... when it seeks to
strengthen physical and digital connectivity.
Human capital was identified as the fifth priority. In this regard,
Selassie urged African countries....... to transform their young
populations into engines of innovation, entrepreneurship
and economic growth through increased investment
in skills and technology.
_____________________________________
Tanzanian president's
husband.... dies
Dodoma, September 7th, 9:05am
(Prensa Latina)
The Tanzanian government announced today the death of Hafid
Ameir Hassan, husband of the country's president, Samia
Suluhu Hassan, while receiving treatment in a hospital
in Zanzibar.
The death was announced by the vice president, Deogratius
Ndejembi, who added... that Hassan suffered from a
cardiovascular condition, and expressed his
condolences to the family.
The Tanzanian leader took office as the country's first female
president after the death of President John Magufuli, and
subsequently won her second term in an election
held in 2025 with over 97 percent of the vote.
Candidates from the two main opposition
parties were barred from running.
The presidents of Kenya, William Ruto, and Burundi,
Evariste Ndayishimiye, sent their condolences to
the family of President Samia Suluhu.
_______________________________________
Mali stunned Spain at
Basketball World Cup
(female)
Berlin, September 5th, 12:20pm
(Prensa Latina)
The Malian national team surprised Spain today
in the Women's Basketball World Cup held here.
The African team won 82 points to 73, in what
was the first big surprise of the competition.
It was only the second win in tournament history
for the African country, which had previously
beaten Senegal in extra time during the
2010 edition.
Mali trailed by two points at halftime but
outscored Spain with a 31-19 run in the
third quarter, to take the lead.
Atlanta Dream player Sika Koné in the WNBA led
the Africans with 19 points, and scored two
three-pointers during the decisive drive,
in addition to grabbing 10 rebounds.
Djeneba N'Diaye also scored 19 points for Mali,
while Iyana Martin scored 20 for Spain.
In the other game that ended on Saturday,
Hungary beat Nigeria 71-67, and then
Germany-Japan and France-South
Korea, will compete.
___________________________________
Digital platform modernizes port
and cargo services in Ethiopia
Addis Ababa, September 5th, 8:03am
(Prensa Latina)
The Ethiopian Maritime Transport and Logistics (ESL) company,
today has a self-service digital platform for customers, as part
of efforts to modernize port and cargo operations, and
streamline import and export procedures.
The web and mobile platform provides features including consumer
registration, cargo tracking, booking, delay management, digital
payments and claims handling. It also incorporates AI-assisted
chatbots to provide faster assistance to users.
The Deputy Director General of the Ethiopian Maritime Authority,
Fraol Tafa, stated that digital technologies are increasingly
transforming almost every aspect of daily life and have
become essential to modern logistics operations.
Tafa revealed that terminal management systems will be
implemented soon, further transforming the sector by
making operations smarter and more efficient.
He added that investments in logistics ultimately benefit
consumers and urged public and private stakeholders
to adopt modern digital systems to reduce costs,
improve cargo tracking and strengthen
service delivery.
ESL CEO Abdulber Shemsu Ahmed said the new platform
is part of the company's broader modernization efforts
to respond to the demands of the African country's
fast-growing economy.
Ahmed said it integrates previously fragmented processes
and eliminates manual paperwork that contributed to
delays and errors, thereby reducing transaction
times and improving operational efficiency.
Meanwhile, the CEO of the Ethiopian-Djibouti Railways Joint
Stock Company, Takele Uma, referred to the government's
support for the ongoing reforms in the logistics sector.
Uma said the technology would enable clients to receive
improved and more effective services, adding that the
government is working ------- to transform ESL into a
leading institution in East Africa.
The platform... is aligned with the Digital Ethiopia 2030
agenda, which seeks to accelerate end-to-end digital
transformation across the country's trade corridors.
_______________________________________________________
Sudanese paramilitary allies
leave 21 dead in Kordofan
Khartoum, September 4th, 11:14am
(Prensa Latina)
A violent attack on villages inhabited by the Otoro tribe, native to the
Nuba mountains, left at least 21 dead and dozens injured, including
women and children, medical sources learned here today.
The Sudanese Doctors' Network denounced ---- in a statement
issued the day before, that the attack was attributed to the
Sudan People's Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N), a
rebel group allied with the so-called Rapid Support
Forces (RSF), in the African country.
The massacre occurred in the regions of Debi and Luweri, the
scene of other clashes with the rebel group in recent months
over territorial disputes. This area is inhabited by this ethnic
minority community south and west of Kauda, in the
southern state of South Kordofan.
According to sources, this vandalism has already led to
the displacement of many civilians in the area, despite
a ceasefire recently reached between the parties.
The new inter-ethnic attacks come amid heavy fighting
between the army and the RSF for control of the
country's southern borders.
Since mid-April 2023, Sudan has been mired in an internal war, after
power disputes between army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the
leader of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, Mohamed Hamdan
Daglo, having been fuelled by the UAE, Israeli and Ukrainian
''intelligence'' services.
___________________________________
Violence against undocumented
foreigners continues in S Africa
Pretoria, September 4th, 10:13am
(Prensa Latina)
New violent anti-immigrant protests in the South African city of
Durban left several injured among the members of a camp for
undocumented foreigners, it was learned here today.
The wounded, who some sources place at five, mainly from the
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), were attacked the day
before by a mob of anti-immigrant demonstrators who also
clashed with police forces.
The port city of Durban has been the epicentre of several weeks of
action against irregular migration in which at least four foreigners
have died and tens of thousands have fled the country,
according to official figures.
The foreigners had moved to the site in search of protection from
mobs of South Africans who attack undocumented immigrants.
Some estimates already place more than 200,000 people who have
fled in the face of the anti-immigrant attacks, which have already
left four dead and dozens injured.
The government in Pretoria condemned in a statement last June all
forms of intimidation, harassment and violence directed against
anyone, regardless of nationality or immigration status.
However, violent South African groups blame the economic problems
suffered by the southern country's society and high crime rates on
undocumented immigrants.
Meanwhile, countries such as Zimbabwe, Ghana, Nigeria, Uganda,
Kenya, Malawi and Lesotho have already repatriated thousands
of their citizens, while others issued security alerts.
_____________________________________________________
Kenya looks to China.. to
boost industrial upgrade
Source: Xinhua
September 4th, 9:45am
Kenya will deepen collaboration with China to upgrade its
manufacturing capacity, boost exports of value-added
products, and create jobs for the youth, senior
officials said on Thursday at the 9th Kenya
International Industrial Expo in Nairobi,
the Kenyan capital.
Joseph Mutavi Kithu, national director of the Kenya National
Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI), a trade lobby,
stated that China offers strategic leverage for the East
African nation's industrial revival.
Kithu observed that the advanced manufacturing capabilities
of China, built on modern technology, a skilled workforce,
and reliable supply chains, can support Kenya's
industrial development.
"We are going to bring more tools from China so that we
can now start producing here in Kenya," Kithu said.
"We are also encouraging the Chinese people to establish
businesses here because when you are producing here,
it would be easier to reach the market," he added.
Kithu stressed -- that ordinary Kenyan citizens will benefit as
the country strengthens industrial collaboration with China,
leading to reduced prices for consumer goods.
He highlighted --- China's competitive edge in green energy,
noting that increased access to Chinese solar equipment
will boost power reliability and lower energy costs for
regular households.
Deepening Kenya-China industrial ties is a central theme
of the three-day Kenya International Industrial Expo, as
the 2026 Kenya Investment and Trade Fair... is
concurrently held.
Organized by Afripeak Expo Kenya Ltd and co-organized by
the KNCCI and Kenya Investment Authority (Invest Kenya),
the event features over 100 Chinese enterprises
showcasing innovations in manufacturing,
green mobility, healthcare,
and construction.
Pius Rotich, director of manufacturing sector investments
of Invest Kenya, said at the opening ceremony, that the
government has created a conducive policy and the
regulatory environment to attract Chinese
investments in local manufacturing,
boost exports, and address the
trade imbalance.
Rotich noted that industrial machinery imported from China
has modernized production lines for local manufacturers,
enhancing the competitiveness of Kenyan products in
both regional and global markets.
"We want to see how we can cooperate more with China
in our manufacturing sector, and achieve our long-term
vision of growth and transformation," Rotich said.
The Kenya International Industrial Expo has evolved over
the years from a conventional trade fair into a major
platform for fostering industrial cooperation, cross
-border investments, and technology exchanges,
according to Gao Wei, managing director of
Afripeak Expo Kenya Ltd.
"One of the most significant features of this year's exhibition
will be the increased presence of industrial technologies,
including laser engraving, laser cutting and advanced
processing equipment," Gao said.
Muhamed Swaleh, a local entrepreneur, said he visited the
exhibition to explore partnerships with Chinese firms
specializing in modern industrial machinery.
He noted that Kenya is ripe for an industrial takeoff, as the
country has promoted the strong ties built between local
entrepreneurs and their Chinese peers ---- to facilitate
technology and knowledge transfers.
______________________________________
African body calls for leveraging
AI for regional development
Addis Ababa, September 4th, 6:03am
(Prensa Latina)
IGAD member states should leverage artificial intelligence (AI)
to accelerate development, deepen regional integration and
address common challenges in the Horn of Africa, an
official source summarised here today.
Speaking at a stakeholder consultation workshop on the regional
AI framework and strategy, the Executive Secretary of the
Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD),
Workneh Gebeyehu, noted that this set of
technologies should be considered a
key factor to advance the agenda
on regional integration, peace
and development.
The consultation scheduled for 4 and 5 September brings together
policymakers, technical experts, academics, private sector
representatives and development partners in Ethiopia
to help develop a practical regional framework
and strategy on AI for the African body.
Gebeyehu considered that artificial intelligence has the potential to
boost food security and agriculture, improve predictive climate
models and early warning systems for droughts and floods,
as well as expand access to health care through
technology-based diagnostics and
disease surveillance.
He also underscored the need to ensure data sovereignty,
accountability and regional regulation, stating that IGAD
countries must ensure that their information is
controlled, managed and used for their
own interests.
In that regard, he advocated closer cooperation among
Member States through data sharing, resource pooling
and policy harmonization, noting that regional
collaboration can achieve what no country
could achieve alone.
Gebeyehu laid out a three-pronged strategy to boost the tool
in the region: targeted investments in areas where AI can
generate the greatest impact on development, the
elimination of critical gaps in infrastructure,
policies, and human capabilities -- and the
creation of a robust regional ecosystem.
He also highlighted the need for cross-border initiatives,
institutional cooperation and harmonised policies to
support the growth of an effective regional
AI ecosystem.
For his part, the Director of IGAD Affairs at the Ministry of
Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, Ketema Haile, said that his
country recognizes AI as a transformative tool for
national and regional development.
Haile expressed Addis Ababa's commitment - to work closely
with the African entity and other member states to advance
a safe, inclusive and human-centred agenda across the
region on this set of technologies.
______________________________________
Ethiopia highlights cooperation with
BRICS ------ for Africa's development
Addis Ababa, September 4th, 5:07am
(Prensa Latina)
The BRICS group creates ample opportunities for Africa to take
advantage of finance, technology transfers and strategic
partnerships while advancing its economic
transformation, an official source was
quoted as saying today by the
local press.
In an interview with DD India on the 18th Summit of the bloc and
reproduced here by Fana Media Corporation, Ethiopian envoy
Nebiyu Tedla stressed that this mechanism provides an
important platform for African countries to deepen
engagement with major emerging economies and
translate existing trade relations into more
focused and strategic partnerships.
Tedla noted that most BRICS members are already the main
trading partners of the continent's nations, providing a
solid economic foundation for broader cooperation.
Beyond trade to capacity building, innovative financing,
technology transfers and strategic investment, he said,
would further strengthen the contribution of the group
to Africa's development.
The Ethiopian envoy said that African countries are seeking
transformation in sectors such as agriculture, information
and communication technologies, mining, connectivity,
tourism and services.
Stronger engagement with BRICS members in these areas,
he added, could support national development priorities
and expand the opportunities....... for sustainable
economic growth.
He stressed the importance of the expanded membership of the
BRICS, noting that the inclusion of countries with diverse
civilizations, cultures, political systems and economic
models enhanced the representativeness of the
grouping and created greater opportunities
for members to exchange experiences
and learn from each other.
Ethiopia joined in 2024 and since then actively participated in
the engagements of senior officials and ministerial positions
under the presidencies of Russia, Brazil and India, he said.
Regarding the upcoming summit .....scheduled in New Delhi on
September 12-13, the envoy revealed that Ethiopia expects a
consensual outcome document that will provide strategic
direction for future BRICS engagements, while
addressing the interests of all members.
He said the meeting will also provide Addis Ababa with an
important multilateral platform to engage with partner
countries, including in efforts to mobilize support for
the hosting of the 32nd UNs' Climate Change
Conference (COP32) in November 2027.
________________________________________
Ethiopia: BRICS can reform the
global financial architecture
Addis Ababa, September 4th, 4:58am
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopia sees the BRICS as an important platform to advance the
reform of the global financial architecture and strengthen the
representation of developing and emerging economies in
international decision-making.
Ethiopian envoy Nebiyu Tedla stressed that the growing
economic weight of the Global South must be more
fully reflected in global institutions.
Tedla included in the latter - their decision-making and voting
structures, arguing that developing countries should have a
significant voice in shaping systems that directly affect
their interests.
He said Ethiopia's commitment to the New Development Bank
(NDB) is part of this broader effort to expand development
financing options for emerging economies.
He recalled that Addis Ababa applied to join the NDB shortly after
becoming a member of the BRICS in 2024, and its application
was approved by the bank's Board of Governors in
December 2025.
He stressed that relevant Ethiopian institutions worked to complete
the ratification process, and that the Council of Ministers finalized
its part while waiting for the House of People's Representatives
(parliament) to complete the process.
NDB membership, he said, will give Ethiopia ...additional access to
development finance and allow for closer cooperation with other
emerging economies and the bank's management, to advance
bankable development projects.
He revealed -- that Ethiopia seeks to translate the collective
understandings and decisions reached through the BRICS,
into stronger bilateral cooperation with member countries
....including India.
He also said that they are making efforts to facilitate a bilateral
meeting between Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and his Indian
counterpart, Narendra Modi, on the sidelines of the
conclave, based on the recent visit of the leader
of the Southeast Asian nation to Addis Ababa,
and the agreements reached during that visit.
At another point in the interview, the Ethiopian envoy also stressed
the need to harmonize world institutions with contemporary
realities, taking into account --- that many were created
after World War II and must be more representative
and respond to the current challenges.
He identified the reform of the United Nations Security Council as
particularly important for developing countries and Africa, given
their central role in addressing those international issues - that
frequently affect the continent and the Global South in general.
__________________________________________________________
Ebola case fatality rate in
DRC close to 50 percent
Kinshasa, September 3, 12:43pm
(Prensa Latina)
The National Institute of Public Health of the Democratic Republic
of Congo (DRC) reported today that 3,039 people lost their lives
as a result of Ebola, and the fatality rate is almost 50 percent.
According to an institutional bulletin, confirmed cases amounted
to 6,250 since the declaration of the outbreak four months ago,
and the number of recovered patients is now 1,400.
During the last 24 hours, 64 new cases and 25 deaths
were registered, the authorities said.
The case fatality rate stands at 48.6 percent, with a contact
tracing rate of cases that amounts to 89 percent.
According to the World Health Organization, the outbreak in DRC is
already the deadliest in the country's history, surpassing the one
recorded between 2018 and 2020, with projections pointing to it
being able to surpass the one recorded between 2014 & 2016 in
West Africa, which left 28,616 cases & 11,325 deaths in Guinea,
Liberia and Sierra Leone.
___________________________________________
Experts seek to improve health
guarantees --- for African youth
Conacry, September 3rd, 10:53am
(Prensa Latina)
Guinea today hosts the second day of work of the XII African
Conference on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights,
which focuses on the guarantees of quality health care
for young people.
This regional event will run until September 5. and seeks
to generate commitments for the protection, health and
rights of African adolescents and young people.
Under the theme: Sexual and reproductive health and rights of
adolescents and young people in Africa in the face of multiple
crises, participants highlighted the need ---- to strengthen
information and prevention, and to take into account
their needs in health policies and systems.
The conference is attended by government officials,
researchers, health professionals, civil society
representatives, technical and financial
partners, and young people, from
several African countries.
On the opening day, Prime Minister Amadou Oury Bah
considered health, education and the protection of
youth - essential for the development of Africa.
He advocated for: awareness-raising strategies adapted to
the realities and aspirations of young people... that favour
their participation & achieve lasting behavioural changes.
For her part, Guinea's Minister of Health and Public Hygiene,
Khaite Sall, reaffirmed the commitment to continue the
transformation of the health system and improve
access to health care in Guinea.
He stressed - that health is a strategic investment in
the country's human capital, dignity and future, in
line with.... the ambitions of the Simandou 2040
sustainable and responsible socio-economic
development programme.
Demographics indicate, that Africa is currently the
youngest continent in the world, with almost 60%
of its population under the age of 25.
The organizers of the event highlighted that there are
gaps in the implementation of programs -- marked by
crises: by the cuts in Western funding, humanitarian
emergencies, climate change, among other factors.
__________________________________________
Senegal's National Assembly
approves 2 laws for analysis
Dakar, September 3rd, 10:47am
(Prensa Latina)
Two laws related to the regulation of special funds and
health in the prison environment are advancing today
in the National Assembly of Senegal.
The legislative body reported that, after examining the
proposals, they were declared admissible, which
allows the projects to continue through the
legislative procedures.
The first proposal seeks to strengthen the regulation of special
funds and the second proposal is related to the conditions and
organization of health care for people deprived of liberty.
In accordance with Article 69 of the Internal Regulations of the
National Assembly, after the analysis both proposals will be
sent to the President of the Republic for his opinion, the
statement said.
________________________________________
Sudan Airstrike Destroys Tons of Food
Khartoum, September 3rd, 8:55am
(Prensa Latina)
An airstrike destroyed 50 tons of food destined for people
displaced by armed conflicts in South Kordofan, Sudan,
the World Food Program (WFP) denounced today.
The report said that the shipment should make it possible
to feed for a month some 6,000 people who face food
insecurity in these areas.
He said that the shots hit two vehicles clearly identified
with WFP emblems, that were heading towards Kadugli.
He noted that in that region the organization provides food
assistance to some 60,000 people who face emergency
or more severe levels of food insecurity.
Data from the UN agency indicate that since January there
have been 8 attacks of this type that damaged facilities
and hindered their work. These actions aggravate the
working conditions of humanitarian organizations
in Sudan, the report states.
For its part, the International Organization for Migration
reported that some 730 people were displaced from
the town of Abassiya, in South Kordofan, to areas
of North Kordofan, due to the violence.
The United Nations calls on the parties to the conflict
to respect international humanitarian law, protect
civilians --------- and guarantee the safety of
humanitarian and health workers.
____________________________________
Egyptian President Receives
Italian Foreign Minister
Rome, September 3rd, 7:49am
(Prensa Latina)
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi received Italian
Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani in Cairo today, who is
visiting the country with the aim of strengthening
bilateral relations, Nova news agency reported.
During the meeting... the president invited Italian Prime Minister
Giorgia Meloni to visit Egypt to "continue the coordination and
consultations on matters of mutual interest," Ambassador
Mohamed al-Shenawi, spokesman for the Egyptian
presidency, confirmed in a statement issued
after the meeting.
According to the text, in the exchange the Italian delegation
was given a letter from Sisi addressed to Meloni, in which
he congratulates her government for being "the longest
in office in the history of the Italian Republic since the
end of World War II".
The Egyptian presidency added that, in the letter, Sisi also
highlighted the "remarkable development" of bilateral
relations in various sectors ..and invited Meloni to
visit Egypt.
With the Egyptian authorities, the Italian Foreign Minister
will discuss cooperation on key regional issues and the
development of economic and trade relations.
Together with his counterpart Badr Abdelatty, the Italian
deputy prime minister will chair the Italian-Egyptian
Joint Commission, the official website of the
Rome Foreign Ministry reported.
The Italian delegation is also made up of the Minister of
Environment and Energy Security, Gilberto Pichetto
Fratin, and the Minister of Labour and Social
Policies, Marina Calderone.
_____________________________________
Death toll rises to more than
3,000 from Ebola outbreak
in DRC
Kinshasa, September 2, 12:12pm
(Prensa Latina)
The authorities of the Democratic Republic of Congo
confirmed today that the Ebola outbreak declared in
mid-May has already exceeded the threshold of
three thousand deaths.
According to the National Institute of Public Health,
about 6,200 confirmed cases were reported in the
six provinces affected by the disease.
To date, 6,186 cases have been registered, with
3,077 deaths, the institutional bulletin said.
The outbreak in DRC is already the deadliest in the
country's history, surpassing the one recorded
between 2018 and 2020, with projections
pointing to it being able to surpass the
one recorded between 2014 and
2016 in West Africa, which left
28,016 cases..... and 11,325
deaths in Guinea, Liberia
and Sierra Leone......
according to data
from the WHO.
Ebola is a serious, often fatal, disease in humans.
According to the medical literature, the viruses
causing it belong to the genus Orthoebolavirus
of the Filoviridae family.
To date, six species of Orthoebolavirus have
been identified, of which three are known
to cause large outbreaks: Ebola Virus,
Sudan Virus and Bundibugyo Virus.
Experts point to fruit bats of the Pteropodidae
family as responsible, as they are natural
hosts of the Orthoebolavirus.
The virus can be transmitted to humans when
people have close contact with the blood,
secretions, organs, or other body fluids
of infected animals, such as fruit bats,
chimpanzees, gorillas, porcupines,
that are found sick or dead in
the rainforest.
Individuals cannot transmit the disease before
they have symptoms, and they remain
infectious as long as their blood
contains the virus.
_______________________________________
AU and the International Finance
Corporation talk ''partnership''
Addis Ababa, September 2, 8:28am
(Prensa Latina)
The African Union (AU) and the International Finance
Corporation (IFC) today analyzed the deepening of
the strategic partnership between Africa and the
World Bank to promote the continent's
development priorities.
The topic was the focus of discussions between AU
Commission Chair Mahmoud Ali Youssouf and IFC
Director General Makhtar Diop, in which they
also discussed mobilizing African capital,
including resources managed by pension
and institutional funds, to invest more
actively in infrastructure, industries
and transformative projects
in Africa.
Youssouf underlined.... the importance of accelerating
intra-African trade and addressing persistent barriers
to integration, such as poor infrastructure, non-tariff
barriers, regulatory fragmentation and obstacles to
the free movement of goods, capital and energy.
He emphasized strengthening manufacturing capacity
for pharmaceuticals and vaccines in Africa through
the African Medicines Agency, harmonizing
regulatory standards, and creating
reliable continental markets for
African-made medical devices.
He also underlined the need to accelerate the digital
transformation of the AU and to strengthen peace,
security and political stability, as fundamental
for investment and sustainable development.
The meeting - also highlighted the importance of Mission
300, regional energy markets and clusters of electricity
systems, private sector investment in the transmission
infrastructure, and in the development of integrated
transport, energy and finance corridors.
Mission 300 is an initiative launched in 2024 by the
African Development Bank and the World Bank to
bring electricity to 300 million people in Africa
by 2030.
Finally, Youssouf and Diop reaffirmed their commitment
to continue working together for a more integrated,
self-reliant, digitally connected Africa, capable
of financing its own development.
The World Bank's International Finance Corporation
is the largest development institution ---- focused
exclusively on the private sector in emerging
markets and emerging countries.
(Rhondda Records adds -
What a pathetic sell-out)
_______________________________________
Weighing Africa's energy potential ---
on the way to international summit
Windhoek, September 1, 1:54pm
(Prensa Latina)
Namibia is organising the African International Energy, Oil and
Gas Summit from today focused on finding ways to reduce the
investment gap in the energy sector .....and accelerate the
development of infrastructure.
The organizing committee, in collaboration with the
Namibian University of Science and Technology,
launched an international call for delegates,
sponsors and exhibitors... interested in
participating from October 20 to 24
in the 2026 edition of this
great event.
Under the theme - 'Giving new impetus to energy and land
governance in Africa', the meeting aims to bring together
politicians, energy sector leaders, investors and experts
to address challenges related to energy financing and
governance on the continent.
According to analysts, Africa has significant resources of oil,
gas, solar, hydroelectric and wind energy, but suffers from a
significant deficit of infrastructure & access to electricity,
so this meeting is very much in tune with reality.
Data from the International Energy Agency (IEA) indicate that
over 600 million Africans do not have access to electricity,
while the fragility of electricity grids causes losses for
the continent of about 130 billion dollars in gross
domestic product ---- each year.
Although considerable in the continent's potential, Africa
also captures less than three percent of global energy
investments, the IEA adds.
The summit organizers said the meeting will examine ways
to reduce risks for investors, mobilize more cross-border
finance, and tap carbon markets.
They added -- that high-level meetings are planned, that will bring
together ministers, technology operators, investors and financial
institutions around projects & partnerships in the energy sector.
The Network of Excellence on Land Governance in Africa,
the Nigerian Crude Oil Refinery Owners Association,
African Energy World, African Energy Vault Ltd,
Transcontinental University in the US & the
African Academy of Energy.... are also
collaborating in preparation for
the event, they said.
Rhondda Records adds:
Sad future for Africa after all those heroes
died fighting for an Africa free from the
West and its predatory ''loans.''
Why aren't you storming the walls
of the BRICS Development Bank?
_____________________
New ECOWAS mandate with
an eye on ---- regional unity
Abuja, September 1, 12:28pm
(Prensa Latina)
With a call for unity, solidarity and mutual respect, a new
mandate began in the Commission of the Economic
Community of West African States (ECOWAS)
- media outlets highlighted today.
On taking over the presidency of ECOWAS, Birame Diop of Senegal
urged members to work collectively to build a "united, coherent
and effective" institution.
He considered that such a body must be able to respond to the
aspirations & challenges of the region, and pointed out that
the strength of regional integration must be measured by
the Community's ability to remain united and pursue
common objectives.
Diop also stressed the importance of opening a new page
for the integration of West Africa, marked by peace,
dignity and shared prosperity.
ECOWAS will have to strengthen actions in the areas of
regional cohesion, security, economic integration and
cooperation among its member states.
_______________________________________________
Zambian President sworn
in ....for his second term
Lusaka, September 1, 11:22am
(Prensa Latina)
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema was sworn in
for a second term today with a call for national unity.
The ceremony was held at the National Heroes Stadium in this
capital, in the presence of several African leaders... including
William Ruto of Kenya, Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe,
Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah of Namibia, and Samia Suluhu
Hassan of Tanzania, as well as a large audience of
political supporters.
Meanwhile, the main opposition leader and second in the votes
in the recent presidential elections, held on August 13, Brian
Mundubile, is in prison, accused of high treason.
According to political observers, the election was marred
by accusations of intimidation, pro-government bias and
restrictions on the opposition.
The official results released gave Hichilema 60 percent
of the votes, followed by Mundubile with 38 percent.
Hichilema's first term was characterized by an economic boom
.....that did not result in better living conditions for the most
impoverished sectors of society, and left high inflation.
World Bank data indicate that more than 70 percent of
Zambia's 22 million people live below the poverty line.
______________________________________________
Ethiopia's religious institutions --
called on to foster national unity
Addis Ababa, September 1, 8:52am
(Prensa Latina)
President Taye Atske-Selassie today urged religious institutions
to strengthen their role in preserving Ethiopia's moral values
and fostering national unity.
Selassie, speaking at the ceremony for the 15th anniversary
and the 18th Ordinary General Assembly of the Ethiopian
Inter-religious Council, called the meeting an important
forum to reflect on the country's past, celebrate the
unity of its people and discuss its many shared
national aspirations.
He noted that over the past 15 years, the Council demonstrated
its value by helping to lay a solid foundation for the nation's
growth. He stressed that Ethiopia was built thanks to the
ideas, work and prayers of successive generations.
He also affirmed that the foundations are based on faith, respect
for human dignity and a deep appreciation of diversity and unity.
He considered that religious institutions long played a fundamental
role in the formation of public morality and character. Emphasizing
the responsibility of religious leaders, the president pointed to
their role as key guardians of public ethics. In this sense, he
called for redoubling efforts to educate young people and
protect them against imported ideologies, and fads.
He urged religious institutions to actively teach against
practices contrary to Ethiopian culture and morals,
such as deceit, falsehood, theft, corruption,
cruelty and indifference to human life.
He also stressed the importance of guiding those who travel
along destructive paths.... towards constructive citizenship.
The Ethiopian president described religious leaders as beacons
of guidance in difficult times, calling them apostles & sahaba
(companions, in Amharic) of dialogue, unity, forgiveness and
reconciliation, during periods of division.
He welcomed its active participation in Ethiopia's recent National
Dialogue process, noting that it contributed to fostering stability,
truth and lasting peace.
He concluded by reiterating that the Government recognizes and
values ------ the important contribution of religious institutions to
sustainable peace, social cohesion and national development.
___________________________________________
Rights protection, Ethiopia
responds to refugee crisis
Addis Ababa, September 1, 8:49am
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopia is promoting a response strategy to the refugee crisis
that links the protection of rights and dignity with integration,
economic participation and access to development
opportunities, it was announced today.
Ethiopian Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tironeh said this on his
social networks after visiting the headquarters of the Refugee
and Returnee Service to discuss the important institutional
reforms carried out via the institution's own capacities.
Tiruneh noted that these reforms go beyond improving the physical
working environment, also encompassing the strengthening of the
organizational culture, the improvement of the quality of service
and the creation of a lasting organizational capacity.
He stressed ---- that the coordinated efforts of the Service's
management, its staff and refugee communities — both at
headquarters and in the offices of the eight regions and
25 reception centres — demonstrate that meaningful
institutional transformation is possible, through
commitment, collaboration and self-reliance.
He particularly highlighted the implementation of the "Bounty of
the Basket" initiative in areas such as livestock development,
fruit and vegetable production, poultry farming, beekeeping
and plant cultivation.
These efforts, he said, demonstrate that institutional reform
should not be measured solely by improvements in the
workplace, but also by productivity, livelihoods, and
the tangible results generated.
Ethiopia... is currently hosting more than 1.1 million refugees from
various countries, a responsibility that the Deputy Prime Minister
says goes beyond safeguarding their rights & dignity to include
strengthening their integration with host communities... and
expanding their access to development opportunities.
He identified the implementation of digital ID as an important
step - to facilitate greater social and economic participation.
He commended the progress made by the Refugee & Returnee
Service and urged the continuation of these efforts with
renewed determination, increased ambition and a
sustained commitment to delivering results.
_____________________________________
Ethiopia reveals regional benefits
of the new Nile River reservoirs
Addis Ababa, September 1, 5:55am
(Prensa Latina)
As the debate on Ethiopia's plans to build more dams on the Nile
River reignited, an expert from the Ministry of Water and Energy
today exposed the regional benefits and environmental impact.
The chairman of the Ethiopian Revival Grand Dam (GERD) Advisory
Team on Transboundary Waters and the Ethiopian Renaissance
Grand Dam (GERD), Fekahmed Negash, explained.. that the
reservoirs located downstream in Egypt suffer from high
evaporation rates due to Egypt's hot desert climate.
Negash noted that the deep and narrow gorges of the Addis Ababa
Highlands give much more favourable conditions for water storage.
He argued that these cooler areas would ultimately benefit all the
countries in the Nile basin.
He contrasted these conditions with those of the Aswan Grand Dam,
whose vast reservoir is located in Egypt's hot, desert environment
and is exposed to substantial evaporation losses. He estimated
that the dam loses between 15 and 16 billion cubic metres of
water, annually, through evaporation.
The former member of Ethiopia's negotiating team for GERD and
former executive director of the East Nile Regional Technical
Office said the potential benefits of accumulating in the
Ethiopian highlands go beyond reducing evaporation.
He identified the decrease in sedimentation as another important
advantage for downstream countries, particularly Egypt.
Large amounts of sediment transported from Ethiopia's highlands
accumulate in Lake Nasser, behind the Aswan Grand Dam,
gradually reducing its storage capacity, he said.
While severe flooding is relatively rare, he stressed that extreme
events can pose significant risks to downstream infrastructure.
He recalled that, during a big flood in 2005, Egyptian engineers
opened the western spillway and diverted billions of cubic
meters of water ..into the Toshka Valley. Increased
storage capacity in Ethiopia, could help regulate
extreme flows within the basin and reduce the
pressure major floods put on downstream
infrastructure, he said.
Another benefit - is the development of a cascade dam system in
Ethiopia to generate electricity above domestic needs, creating
opportunities for downstream countries to access clean and
affordable energy.
Such energy cooperation could provide an additional basis for
economic integration among Nile basin countries, he added.
Finally, he argued that water storage should be approached
from a basin-wide perspective, rather than focusing solely
on the interests of each individual country.
____________________________________________
The US authorities have sent more than
100 migrants..... to African countries
instead of their countries of origin,
CBS News reports
August 31, 3:18pm GMT
(Pravda.En)
Over the past 10 days, more than 100 deportees
have been sent to eight African countries.
Some of the migrants had criminal records, but many had not
committed any crimes other than illegally crossing the
border with the US. More than 30 countries have
agreed to accept illegal immigrants from the
USt, including some in Latin America.
Source: MAX "mir_tass"
_________________________________
Thailand sees Ethiopia as its gateway
to a greater presence in Africa
Addis Ababa, August 31, 11:45am
(Prensa Latina)
Thailand believes that strengthening ties with Ethiopia will serve
as a springboard for broader cooperation between Africa and
Asia, by offering a key platform to expand a Thai presence
on the African continent.
This was expressed.. by Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign
Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow after his official visit to Addis
Ababa in which he defined two strategic objectives: to
strengthen the bilateral relationship with that country
and to expand collaboration with Africa through the
African Union, Fana Media Corporation said today.
During his stay, which began last Friday, a memorandum of
understanding was signed to establish periodic high-level
political consultations. According to Phuangketkeow,
this mechanism ........will strengthen political
commitment and boost cooperation
in various fields.
He also stressed the importance of intensifying high-level
contacts and exchange of visits to further advance
bilateral relations.
The establishment of the Thai embassy in Ethiopia with a
resident ambassador who will represent the country to
Addis Ababa and, simultaneously, to the African Union
was also announced.
He said this move would strengthen Bangkok's diplomatic
presence in Africa and facilitate greater interaction with
countries across the continent.
He identified Ethiopia and Thailand.... as countries capable of
contributing to building stronger bridges between the AU and
the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), the
latter of which is made up of 11 member states since
the accession of East Timor and represents a
market and political bloc of almost 700
million people.
As both the AU and ASEAN play ....increasingly influential roles in
world affairs, he stressed the importance of closer interregional
cooperation to address common challenges. "We need to build
bridges both within and between regions," he said.
Phuangketkeow said safeguarding the rules-based international
order, preserving free trade and strengthening the multilateral
trading system -------- within the framework of the World
Trade Organization, are areas....... where African and
ASEAN countries could deepen their cooperation.
He welcomed Ethiopia's progress towards accession to the WTO,
calling further integration into the international trading system
beneficial to the country's economic development.
He said Thailand seeks to expand bilateral trade and investment,
and share its development experience, especially in the areas
of a value added industry and agriculture.
________________________________________________
Strike ---- resumes at
Kenya's main airport
Nairobi, August 31, 11:42am
(Prensa Latina)
Workers at Kenya's international airport, Jomo Kenyatta, have
resumed a strike to demand unpaid wages, job security and
working conditions, union sources said here today.
The strike resumed the day before, due to the failure of negotiations
between the union and government officials, whose talks are due to
resume on Monday.
Meanwhile, passengers at the air terminal faced long delays after
air traffic controllers and airport staff stopped their work.
The employment outlook for Jomo Kenyatta workers worsened.. as a
result of the failure to resolve a previous labour dispute, which was
only temporarily resolved after the government's intervention.
The air terminal is considered one of the most important in
Africa due to the volume of passengers that pass through
its facilities.
In the previous crisis last February, the Airports Authority said that
the Kenya Aviation Workers' Union (Kawu) agreed to return to
work after mediation by the government and other officials
...without a text of the ''agreement''.
Earlier, in 2024, workers at the airfield went on strike to protest
against a government plan to award India's Adani Group
a tender to expand the airfield.
The organization said at the time that the agreement would leave
many workers unemployed and deprive the county's taxpayers
of higher profits. Later, this pact was cancelled.
_____________________________________
Israeli regime provides covert intelligence,
military assistance to Sudan’s
UAE-backed RSF militia:
Report
August 31, 11:27am
(PressTV)
The Israeli regime has been reportedly providing covert intelligence
and military assistance to the Sudanese army’s rival UAE-backed
Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia.
Africa Intelligence reported that RSF leadership has had secret
high-level military contact with the Israelis since before the
start of the war in Sudan.
Sudanese army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the UAE-backed
RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, commonly known by his
nom de guerre Hemedti, have been in a deadly power
struggle since 2023.
Hemedti, who was Burhan’s former deputy, secretly visited Tel Aviv
in May 2025 and February 2026 for meetings with the Israeli
Foreign Ministry’s Africa Division and Israeli officers
affiliated with spy agencies, according to the
Africa Intelligence report.
During the visits to Israel, Hemedti’s two brothers, Abdul Rahim
and Algoney, accompanied him. Abdul Rahim is the RSF’s
second-in-command.
Earlier reports about the links between the RSF
leadership and the Israelis emerged in 2022.
The Israeli newspaper Haaretz and Dutch investigative news outlet
Lighthouse reported that a jet delivered sophisticated EU-made
phone-surveillance and hacking equipment to the RSF.
The jet was linked to former Israeli spy Tal Dilian,
founder of the Cyprus-based Intellexa network.
Over 200 civilians killed as Sudan’s UAE-backed
RSF attacks Darfur displacement camps
Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces (RSF) killed more than 200
civilians in a series of assaults on displacement camps
and the surrounding areas of El Fasher.
The Israeli regime provides military aid to the RSF while
the UAE ------- remains the RSF’s principal backer.
The genocide-committing RSF receives its heavy weapons,
drones, armoured vehicles, ammunition, logistics, transit
routes, and foreign mercenaries, in particular from
Colombia, through all-out support provided by
the UAE.
Proof of the RSF genocide of non-Arab tribes in Sudan
has been documented by both the United Nations
and the United States, as well as various
international rights groups.
Sudan envoy demands action as El Fasher soaks in blood
The Sudanese envoy urges global action as El Fasher
descends into one of Sudan’s bloodiest chapters.
A coalition of international rights groups, which is led by the Raoul
Wallenberg Centre for Human Rights, lodged a petition last month
at the International Criminal Court (ICC) to open an investigation
into senior UAE officials - and other regional figures - for
complicity in the genocide in Sudan.
UAE officials ..have been enabling RSF to commit genocide, war
crimes, and crimes against humanity by intentionally supplying
the militia group - with the money, weaponry, and mercenaries
needed to carry out the atrocities, according to rights groups.
Survivors of the RSF genocide in Sudan lodged a separate
complaint, listing the Emirati government, particularly
Vice President Mansour bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, as
an accomplice in the crimes - for his role in
financing and supplying the RSF.
The UK government has been named as
another accomplice.... in the atrocities.
_________________________________________
Multinational delegation from Indian
''Defence'' College ....visits Ethiopia
Addis Ababa, August 31, 11:18am
(Prensa Latina)
A multinational delegation from the Indian Defense College visited
the Ethiopian Ministry of External Affairs today to ''learn about
the country's political and economic situation, as well as
its participation in regional and international affairs''.
The Director General of Middle East, Asia and Pacific Affairs of the
Ethiopian Foreign Ministry, Dewano Kedir, received the delegation
led by Major General Pawanpal Singh, a member of the senior
management team, within the framework of his work
agenda in Addis Ababa.
According to the State Ministry, Kedir during the welcome
underlined the long-standing historical ties... and ever-
expanding diplomatic relations between Ethiopia
and India.
He highlighted the growing strategic partnership between the two
countries, especially in the fields of trade and investment, and
noted the important contribution of Indian investors to the
national economy.
He also highlighted the solid and long-standing
bilateral cooperation..... in the defense sector.
The delegation indicated that its members, from India, Tanzania,
Bangladesh, Germany, Myanmar and Nepal, are touring various
institutions as part of their study tour.. in order to ''gain....... a
broader understanding of Ethiopia and its role in the region''.
______________________________________________________
Control of the capital
and other points in
Niger -- Regained
Niamey, August 31, 11:12am
(Prensa Latina)
The Nigerien military government claimed to have control of
the main points attacked by mutinous uniformed men this
weekend, it was learned here today.
According to eyewitnesses, life in this capital returned to normal
the day before, after soldiers loyal to the military junta in
command of the country put down a mutiny among
its ranks.
The most violent clashes occurred in the early hours of Saturday
when mutineers tried to storm the presidential palace.
In a statement read on public television over the weekend, Defense
Minister Gen. Salifou Mody said a group of soldiers tried to control
the barracks at Niamey's 101st air base and also attacked other
sensitive sites in the city of Niamey, but were blown up.
The sedition was the third military insubordination so far this year,
although the previous two incidents also involved Islamist groups.
The head of Niger's military junta, Gen. Abdourahmane Tiani, came
to power in a coup three years ago, but his government has been
constantly besieged by attacks by groups affiliated with the
so-called Islamic State and al-Qaeda.
________________________________________
Somalia... ''confirms'' death of
Al Shabaab intelligence chief
Mogadishu, August 31, 10:54am
(Prensa Latina)
The Somali government confirmed today the death of the
intelligence chief of the Islamist group Al Shabaab,
Abdulahi Hashi Hirshi Labayir, in an action
carried out in the south of the country.
According to the National Intelligence and Security Agency
(NISA), the operation was carried out in the Middle Juba
region on August 23.
NISA also added that Labayir, whose alias was "Ikhlas", joined
Al Shabaab in 2006 and had been the head of the intelligence
services of that organisation since 2013.
Somali security forces were also said to have killed two other
unidentified senior officials in the same operation against the
group near Basra, which was aided...... by unidentified
supernational assistance, according to the report.
Meanwhile, the Somali Ministry of Defense reported that actions
against Al Shabaab continue in the vicinity of Basra town, on
the border between the states of Middle Shabelle and
Lower Shabelle, in the south of the country.
Al Shabab is Islamist and carries out continuous attacks against
military and civilian facilities in Somalia, and aims to establish
an Islamic country.
They operate mainly in rural areas which are overwhelmingly
Islamist in central and southern Somalia, but carry out
actions in the capital ----- the only part of Somalia
held by a West-installed regime.
A country in the so-called Horn of Africa, Somalia is also enduring
years of fragmentation and war, with many difficulties in holding
any ........long promised, so-called democratic election.
__________________________________________________________
Africa looks inward to peace
and security challenges
Luanda, August 29, 12:09pm
(Prensa Latina)
Africa's peace and security environment faces increasingly
complex challenges, from the spread of terrorism and
violent extremism to internal crises, interstate
tensions and external clashes, an official
source acknowledged today.
The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, Mahmoud
Ali Youssouf, speaking at the 26th Extraordinary Session of the
Executive Council on the Strengthening of Mechanisms for
the Prevention and Resolution of Conflicts in Africa in
Angola, questioned the continental capacity to
address these challenges.
"Are we equipped to meet these challenges - with the strategies,
mechanisms and resources currently available? Is the African
Peace and Security Architecture adapted to these
circumstances?" he asked. If not, he stressed,
Africa must urgently move forward.....
with reforms.
Youssouf called for strengthening prevention and early warning,
including high-level political commitment - at the first signs of
crisis; better coordination between the AU Commission, the
Peace and Security Council, Member States and Regional
Economic Communities.
He also mentioned a holistic approach to combating
terrorism, noting that "a purely security-based
response has demonstrated its limitations."
Firmness against unconstitutional changes of government,
he stressed, must remain essential, and go hand in hand
with dialogue.
The Commission Chair also emphasized that funding for Africa's
peace agenda and the goal of "Silencing the Guns" by 2030
can no longer rely primarily on external resources.
He called for strengthening the AU Peace Fund
and renewed support for UN Security Council
Resolution 2719.
"Political will .....remains the cornerstone of our collective efforts,"
he said. The way forward, he said, must be guided by prevention,
coordination, sustainable financing, accountability, and
effective monitoring and evaluation.
Finally, he stated that greater vigilance, solidarity and
preparedness are essential - as Africa navigates an
increasingly turbulent geopolitical environment.
Convened under the leadership of Angolan President and AU
Champion for Peace and Reconciliation in Africa, João
Manuel Lourenço, the Executive Council leading up
to tomorrow's summit provides an opportunity for
heads of state and government to assess the
effectiveness of the existing continental
mechanisms for conflict prevention
and resolution.
It will also reaffirm African ownership of governance, peace
and security agendas, and the importance of adhering to
the principles and postulates of the AU Constitutive Act.
_____________________________________________
AU and Angola leaders dialogue on
the sidelines of continental events
Luanda, August 29, 11:49am
(Prensa Latina)
The president of the African Union (AU) Commission, Mahmoud Ali
Youssouf, spoke today with the president of Angola, João Manuel
Lourenço, on the sidelines of high-level events of the continental
organization that are meeting here.
On 29 and 30 August --- Luanda will host the 21st Extraordinary
Session of the Assembly and the 26th Ordinary Session of the
Executive Council on Strengthening Mechanisms for Conflict
Prevention and Resolution in Africa.
Youssouf expressed his deep gratitude to Lourenço, AU Champion
for Peace and Reconciliation in Africa, the Angolan people and
Government for hosting these important meetings.... and for
the warm hospitality extended to the visiting delegations.
He acknowledged their leadership and continued commitment
to advancing peace, security and reconciliation across the
continent, while providing an update on the prevailing
situation of peace and security.
He highlighted Angola's contribution to regional integration and
economic development, through strategic infrastructure
initiatives ...such as the Lobito Corridor.
The president of the AU Commission also reiterated his
appreciation for the Angolan leader's sustained
diplomatic commitment in support of peace
and conflict resolution, and urged him to
continue with his good offices to
advance security, stability and
regional integration in Africa.
The Executive Council meets this Saturday ----- and the meeting of
heads of state and government will be tomorrow. The meeting is
specifically dedicated to improving the continental capacity to
prevent, manage and resolve conflicts, a statement said.
The Luanda summit comes at a critical time when the continent is
not facing a single security crisis, but a web of interconnected
disputes and instability that stretches from the Sahel and the
Great Lakes to Sudan, the Horn of Africa and parts of
southern Africa.
__________________________________________________
Africa for a Coordinated
Conflict Response
Luanda, August 29, 11am
(Prensa Latina)
The member states of the African Union (AU) need a more
coordinated response for the prevention and resolution
of conflicts, Angolan Foreign Minister Téte António
said today.
In opening the extraordinary session of the AU Executive
Council, the Foreign Minister emphasized that this
meeting is the framework for transforming
political orientations ---- into concrete,
applicable and realistic proposals.
Such proposals must be able to create conditions
for heads of state and government - to take
decisions aimed at consolidating peace,
stability and development in Africa,
he said.
He pointed out that protracted conflicts, institutional
instabilities, transnational threats and economic
and social fragilities, are among the main
challenges affecting the continent.
This meeting is a prelude to a summit of AU leaders to
assess the effectiveness of the current continental
mechanisms for conflict prevention and resolution
and to define measures to strengthen the African
Peace and Security Architecture and the African
Governance Architecture.
According to the AU, the importance of the conclave... lies in
whether leaders can strengthen the Organization's capacity
to anticipate crises, prevent escalation and develop
African-led solutions - rather than respond after
conflicts have already taken hold.
________________________________________________________
In Angola, attendees ....at the
summit on conflict resolution
Luanda, August 29, 10:05am
(Prensa Latina)
Angolan President João Lourenço, today, received several
representatives of states and entities that will participate
in the summit dedicated to improving the continental
capacity to prevent, manage and resolve conflicts.
Among the government representatives who are already in Upper
City, Luanda, to attend a meeting organized by the African Union
are José Maria Neves, President of the Republic of Cape Verde
and Tiémoko Meyliet Koné, Vice President of Côte d'Ivoire.
Also present --- were Nardos Bekele-Thomas, Director General of the
African Union Development Agency; Rebeca Grynspan Mayufis, and
Carolyn Rodrigues-Birkett, candidates for the position of Secretary
General of the United Nations. Rodrigues-Birkett, is also the
current Ambassador and Permanent Representative of
Guyana to the UN.
According to the organizers, the meetings were part of the
preparations for the extraordinary meeting that is taking
place ...at a critical time for Africa.
______________________________________
Uganda Aims to Establish Sovereign
Currency Printing Facility: Minister
August 28, 1:19pm GMT
(Pravda.En)
The planned facility would support the country's goal of
producing key state instruments locally, including their
currency, passports, national ID cards, and academic
certificates, Uganda's Minister for the Presidency,
Babirye Milly Babalanda, noted in a statement.
An MoU with a German company sets in motion the technical,
security, feasibility, and commercial work needed for the
facility, the statement said.
According to Babalanda, the project.. supports President
Yoweri Museveni's vision, based on three key principles:
National Sovereignty: Uganda should produce
all its important state instruments locally;
Value Addition: Uganda should use its labour, skills, and
resources ....to produce more high-value goods and
services locally instead of relying on imports;
Capacity Building: Uganda --- should give young people,
engineers, and technicians, opportunities to acquire
modern security-printing skills.
Ugandan engineers and technicians will be involved
throughout the project - gaining skills in planning,
installation, testing, commissioning, operation,
and maintenance, she added.
Source: Telegram "sputnik_africa"
______________________________________
African countries advance
cooperation to prevent
diseases
Addis Ababa, August 28, 10:49am
(Prensa Latina)
A total of 13 African countries signed a memorandum
of understanding today to strengthen cross-border
cooperation in disease prevention, considered
an important step - towards improving
outbreak preparedness on
the continent.
The agreement signed by Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Angola,
Tanzania... Burundi, Central African Republic, Republic of
Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi, Rwanda,
South Sudan and Zambia ----- also provides for the
exchange of health information.
The agreement was announced during the 76th session
of the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional
Committee for Africa, held from August 24
to 28, in Addis Ababa.
The World Bank Senior Health Specialist, Tseganeh Amsalu,
referring to regional financing and cooperation, said that
the memorandum of understanding is designed to
institutionalize cooperation before disease
outbreaks occur.
Amsalu described the agreement as "an important critical
milestone" because it demonstrates the importance of
establishing cooperation proactively ---- rather
than waiting for outbreaks to occur.
For Ethiopia --- he reported that the WB pledged a high level of
support to strengthen disease prevention capacity, develop
health infrastructure and improve human resources.
He reaffirmed: the international organization's continued support
for the rest of the neighbouring countries ---- in efforts to protect
populations & economies from the impact of future outbreaks.
"This is a very critical stage in the preparation & response
to the outbreak on the continent," he said.
The signing of the memorandum of understanding comes as African
health ministers discuss a broader continental agenda, "A New Era
of Health for Africa: United Action for Vision 2035," which seeks
to accelerate progress toward universal coverage and
strengthen health security across the continent.
___________________________________________________
Thailand-Africa Initiative Relaunch
Strengthens South-South Nexus
Addis Ababa, August 28, 10:10am
(Prensa Latina)
The Thailand-Africa Initiative was relaunched today in Ethiopia,
a step that renews the focus of relations between the two
sides and South-South cooperation.
The proposal is a foreign policy framework launched by Bangkok
in 2013..... to build strong, results-oriented partnerships with
African nations.
The program was attended by Thai Deputy Prime Minister and
Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow and the Director
General for Middle East, Asia and Pacific Affairs at the
Ethiopian Foreign Ministry, Dewano Kedir.
The initiative aims to strengthen cooperation between
Thailand and African countries in the political,
economic and development fields.
Its relaunch comes as the Southeast Asian nation seeks to
further deepen its engagement with Africa and promote
mutually beneficial cooperation.
Phuangketkeow arrived in Ethiopia on Friday, for an official visit,
during which he is expected to hold talks with senior Ethiopian
government officials.... on ways to further strengthen the long-
standing relations between the two countries, and promote
political, diplomatic and economic cooperation.
_________________________________________________
Call for - accelerated response
to Ebola in Democratic Congo
Kinshasa, August 27, 12:01pm
(Prensa Latina)
The director of the African Centres for Disease Control, Jean
Kaseya, today called for speeding up the response against
Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The call was issued after Uganda's authorities declared
an end to the outbreak of the disease in Uganda.
"Uganda demonstrated -- that Ebola can be stopped when
leaders act decisively, communities are trusted --- and
public health systems reach the population quickly,"
Kaseya said in a statement.
This is a victory for Uganda and an important lesson for the
continent, and this achievement must now be protected
while accelerating the response in the DRC.
"We will only be safe when transmission is stopped everywhere,"
said the director of the Africa Centres for Disease Control.
Recently, the DRC authorities raised the number of confirmed
Ebola cases since the declaration of the outbreak on May 15
to 5,656, which has already left 2,715 dead.
This new appearance of the disease is considered
the deadliest in the history of the African country.
__________________________________________
Cubans in Angola reject U.S.
policy against the island
Luanda, August 27, 11:17am
(Prensa Latina)
The Association of the Community of Cuban Residents in Angola
(Accra) today described the U.S. policy against Cuba as a form
of systematic economic aggression against an entire people.
In a statement released by Accra, they pointed out ---- that the
humanitarian consequences cannot be ignored or normalized.
In the text, the organization expresses its firm support for the
Cuban government's condemnation of the U.S. decision to
extend the application of the so-called Trading with the
Enemy Act for another year, extending it ..........until
September 2027.
For Accra, this decision is an expression of a policy that for more
than six decades has hindered Cuba's economic and social
development, directly affecting the Cuban population.
"We are Cubans living outside our land, but we maintain historical,
family, cultural and affective ties with it that no border can erase,"
they said in the statement.
From Angola, a country with which Cuba maintains deep ties of
solidarity and friendship, we make our own the call to put an
end to a policy that has proven incapable of reaching a
constructive solution and that, on the contrary,
increases the suffering of the population,
they added.
We recognize and support the growing international demand
for an end to the blockade and respect for the right of the
Cuban people to live in peace, develop, and freely
decide their destiny, they emphasized.
"Cuba, is not a threat. The blockade does constitute a threat
to the well-being and development of our people," they said
in the statement.
____________________________________________
Ethiopia strengthens health
partnership with France
and S Korea
Addis Ababa, August 27, 10:06am
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopia's Minister of State for Health, Frehiwot Abebe, today
received delegations from France and S Korea to strengthen
the partnership in the sector ..........and explore
investment opportunities.
Abebe, speaking with French Ambassador for Global Health and
Chair of the Executive Board of Unitaid, Anne-Claire Amprou,
mentioned ongoing efforts to boost local manufacturing
capacity for essential pharmaceuticals, medical
equipment and medical oxygen.
These actions, he stressed, aim to ensure sustainable health
service delivery and consolidate Ethiopia as a regional and
continental hub. In that regard, he called for greater
support from Paris in these areas.
Amprou said his organization, is working closely with the Ethiopian
Ministry ------ to combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis, adding
initiatives to expand the use of rapid diagnostic technologies and
maternal health interventions to prevent postpartum hemorrhage.
On the other hand, the Ethiopian Minister of State held talks with a
high-level S Korean delegation led by Dr. Ji-ho Cha, in which she
invited investors from the South Asian nation .....to explore
investment opportunities in the local health sector.
Ethiopia is carrying out broader reforms, to strengthen domestic
production of medicines and medical supplies, improve service
delivery and turn the country into a regional hub..... for health
and medical tourism, Abebe said.
__________________________________________
Ethiopia and S Korea - evaluate
cooperation on green logistics
Addis Ababa, August 27, 9:51am
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopia and S Korea discussed, today, to expand bilateral
cooperation in the green logistics and smart mobility
sectors, the local Ministry of Transport and
Logistics reported.
Ethiopian Minister of State for the sector, Dhenge Boru, and a
delegation of S Korean researchers led by Yang Ho Lee
focused discussions on the Official Development
Assistance project, called the "Ethiopost
Green Logistics Transition Package".
The bilateral collaboration initiative is aimed at modernizing the
African country's national logistics and postal infrastructure
through sustainable and environmentally friendly
technologies. Lee noted that green logistics
and mobility ..are among S Korea's key
areas of investment in Ethiopia.
He acknowledged that the remarkable local progress in green
transport and environmental protection is a key factor for
Seoul's interest in investing in the country.
For his part, Boru stressed that the execution of the project is
progressing smoothly and is aligned with the strategic road
map of the transport and logistics sector, hence the
government's commitment to provide all the
necessary support.
He also stated that the integration of modern technologies into
operations is critical to improving the efficiency and overall
performance of logistics services.
The ministry further specified that Seoul's extensive practical
experience and advanced technological capabilities would
bring significant benefits to Addis Ababa.
The two sides concluded with the exploration of ways to
strengthen bilateral cooperation through knowledge
sharing and the collaboration of experts in green
logistics, smart mobility, and the application
of modern technologies.
______________________________________________
Staff - and funding - shortages,
obstacles to health in Africa
Addis Ababa, August 27, 1:42am
(Prensa Latina)
The shortage of professionals and funding are the main obstacles
facing health systems on the continent, warned the Federation
of African Medical Student Associations (Famsa) quoted
today by the Ethiopian News Agency.
The president of Famsa, Yusuf Auual Yehia, told the media outlet
that the migration of personnel is a major concern, as many
health workers move to Europe and North America
in search of better job opportunities.
Yehia warned of the financing gap as another major challenge,
especially for those countries that rely heavily on external
support to sustain services.
He explained that changes in the international environment
reduced the availability of external financing, putting
additional pressure on health systems across
the continent.
To address these challenges, he said, African countries must
strengthen their capacity to create sustainable systems
through increased investment in human resources,
domestic investment and local production.
In this regard, he stressed the importance.. of expanding the
manufacture of vaccines, medicines and pharmaceuticals
in Africa, considering that local production ------- could
strengthen health security and public confidence.
He noted that some African communities continue to face difficulties
in accepting imported immunogens, adding that developing local
manufacturing capacity for these drugs ..could help increase
confidence in health products made within the continent.
He also mentioned the economic benefits beyond the health sector
by reducing import costs, tariffs, taxes and other expenses
associated with the purchase of medicines, vaccines
and other health products.
The president of Famsa stressed that investment in national
production could create employment opportunities for
young people, increase incomes and contribute to
economic growth throughout the continent.
Cooperation among African countries and the exchange of
expertise could further boost efforts to strengthen health
and industrial capacities, as well as to make better use
of the continent's human resources, he said.
In his view, the future of health care in Africa is closely linked
to the continent's ability to invest in its people, expand local
production - and strengthen African countries' cooperation.
____________________________________________________
Regular AU-IGAD consultations
focusing on the situation
in Sudan
Addis Ababa, August 26, 11:30am
(Prensa Latina)
The top representatives of the African Union and the
Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD)
today held regular consultations on regional peace,
security and growth, with emphasis ---- on the
situation in Sudan.
AU Commission Chair Mahmoud Ali Youssouf and IGAD Executive
Secretary Workneh Gebeeyehu highlighted the important and
complementary role played by both sides, in supporting
Khartoum's efforts to restore constitutional order and
move towards a sustainable political settlement.
Youssouf welcomed Gebeyehu's recent visit to the African
country during which he met with senior Sudanese
officials, including the president of the
Sovereignty Council, General
Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan.
Gebeheyu, for his part, expressed appreciation for the
AU's continued diplomatic work ...and its efforts to
promote stability in Sudan and the entire region.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment -- to strengthening
coordination between the AU and IGAD to support a lasting
and inclusive peace through a political process, led and
owned by the Sudanese themselves.
They agreed on the importance of strengthening coordination and
complementarity with key international and regional partners ––
including the Quintet (AU, IGAD, Arab League, EU and UN), the
Quartet (the US, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the UAE), the EU
and the UN separately – to ensure greater coherence and
the effectiveness of international diplomatic efforts in
support of peace in Sudan.
___________________________________________
AU highlights Ethiopia's role in
promoting peace in Africa
Addis Ababa, August 26, 11:14am
(Prensa Latina)
The African Union today highlighted Ethiopia's fundamental role in
promoting peace and security on the continent and stressed the
need for countries to strengthen regional integration.
Speaking to the Ethiopian News Agency, the head of the Secretariat
of the Governance Architecture and the African Peace and Security
Architecture of the AU Commission Salah Hammad, said that Addis
Ababa, by hosting the H.Q. of the continental organization, is a
point of reference for numerous initiatives in favour of peace.
''Ethiopia has undoubtedly - become a point of reference for many
African initiatives aimed at promoting peace and security. In this
regard, we are convinced that Ethiopia plays a crucial role in
promoting peace and security across the continent,"
he stressed.
Hammad also stressed the importance of African integration
in addressing the challenges faced by landlocked countries,
mainly --- their access to the sea.
"Africa must be integrated as a continental entity and, in this way,
Ethiopia and all other landlocked countries will have access to
the sea as part of a united and peaceful Africa," he said.
He mentioned several issues, that he believed African leaders
should address as part of the continent's integration agenda.
First, he recalled that many of Africa's current borders were
inherited from colonial times, rather than being established
by the citizens themselves. In this regard he called for the
leaders to meet and renegotiate the existing borders,
since they divide peoples.
He continued with the need to promote the integration
agenda, promote dialogue and keep open the ways
to reach peaceful solutions.
"Thirdly, it is of utmost importance not to close the door
on any negotiation that leads to a solution that is
beneficial to all African member states,"
he stressed.
Reiterating his position on Africa's inherited borders, the AU
representative noted that the continent should rethink the
boundaries established during the colonial era, seeking
formulas that would foster cooperation.... rather
than division.
________________________________________
President of Ivorian parliament
concludes his visit to Vietnam
Hanoi, August 26, 6:04am
(Prensa Latina)
The president of the National Assembly of Côte d'Ivoire, Patrick
Achi, concluded today a 4-day official visit to Vietnam, during
which he met with the general secretary of the Communist
Party, To Lam.
As part of his agenda, he held talks with his host counterpart
Tran Thanh Man, and, at the meeting they reaffirmed the role
of parliamentary cooperation as a pillar of bilateral relations
and agreed to strengthen the exchange of experiences in
the legislative and supervisory fields, the Vietnam News
Agency reported.
During his stay, since last Saturday, he paid tribute to President
Ho Chi Minh and laid flowers in memory of Vietnam's heroes
and martyrs.
Achi's visit was the first to Vietnam by an African parliamentary
leader since the start of the mandate of the 16th National
Assembly... last April.
The two countries celebrated 50 years of diplomatic relations last
year, and the Speaker of the Ivory Coast parliament's stay in
Vietnam is seen as an opportunity to open a new stage in
ties of friendship and cooperation, as well as between
their respective legislative bodies.
Thanh Man and his counterpart visited a model agricultural
development in the southern city of Can Tho on Tuesday.
The Ivorian leader also visited and worked with the
Vietnam Academy of Agriculture.
__________________________________________
AU concerned about airstrikes
----- on the Chad-Sudan border
Addis Ababa, August 26, 5:27am
(Prensa Latina)
The African Union today expressed concern over the air strikes
that occurred on August 20 in the East Ennedi region, within
the territory of Chad, in the context of the ongoing conflict
in Sudan.
The president of the AU Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, in a
statement reiterated the continental organization's attachment
to strict respect for the sovereignty, unity & territorial integrity
of its member states, as well as the principle of the
inviolability of borders.
Youssouf called on all parties concerned to exercise the utmost
degree of self-discipline, to refrain from any action that could
exacerbate tensions between neighbouring countries and
to take all necessary measures to prevent the spread
of the conflict in Sudan beyond its borders.
He stressed the need to strengthen dialogue and cooperation
among countries in the region in order to prevent cross-
border incidents, improve the security of common
borders .........and reduce the risks of a
regional escalation.
Finally, he renewed the readiness of the African Union Commission
to support interested countries in any initiative that contributes to
de-escalation, preventing new incidents and preserving regional
peace and stability.
The Chadian army denounced on Saturday a drone attack on
a group of vehicles, without attributing this action to either
the army or an armed group from that country.
This is not the first incident to occur, as last March 17 people were
killed in a similar attack from Sudan in the Chadian city of Tiné
(east), also on the border between the two countries.
________________________________________________________
Tanzania Increases Power
Generation Capacity
Dodoma, August 25, 12:10pm
(Prensa Latina)
Tanzania... increases the electricity generation capacity to more
than 4,700 megawatts, which will allow it to export the surplus
and boost the country's industrial development.
The entry into operation of the Julius Nyerere hydroelectric plant
reinforced the energy capacity of the African nation that
consumes half of that figure, estimated at about
2,375 megawatts.
Several nations have shown interest in accessing such energy,
including Kenya, Zambia, the Democratic Republic of the
Congo and Burundi.
Analysts point out that, for Tanzania, the challenge goes beyond
simply exporting electricity, as it aims to take advantage of
these new capacities to support industrialization and
guarantee the supply to homes and businesses.
The commissioning of the new plant is an important step in
the national strategy to reduce electricity shortages and
position itself as a leading regional energy supplier,
experts said.
They added that, in the medium term, increasing electricity
exchanges could strengthen the interconnection and
stability of regional networks.
_________________________________________
Ethiopia presented progress in health to
the WHO Regional Committee for Africa
Addis Ababa, August 25, 6:55am
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopia has made progress in expanding the capacity of its health
sector and the domestic market share of locally manufactured
medicines and health products increased from eight to
44 percent, an official source revealed today.
Ethiopian Minister of Health Mekdes Daba, speaking at the 76th
session of the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional
Committee for Africa, highlighted the country's
strategic focus --- on local production and
self-sufficiency as fundamental pillars
of national health security.
He stressed that recent global challenges demonstrated
why ------- nations must develop an independent
manufacturing infrastructure.
"Health security cannot depend entirely on supply chains that are
beyond our control. Africa must – and is indeed increasing – its
capacity to meet the needs of Africans," he said.
Laying out several important achievements that reflect the
continuous transformation of Ethiopia's health system in
recent years, he mentioned that maternal mortality fell
to 141 per 100,000 live births, according to recent
demographic data.
Meanwhile, he continued, under-five mortality, fell from 67 to 51 per
thousand live births since 2016. In that same period, child wasting
experienced a significant reduction, going from 10 to five percent.
Primary health care coverage nationwide, increased from 64 percent
to 86.3 percent, supported by a growing workforce of about 325,000
professionals ------ and nearly half a million support staff members,
he reported.
Outpatient services recorded more than 233
million patient visits -- in the last year alone.
Regarding financial protection, the Ethiopian minister stated
that community health insurance currently covers 91% of
the country's districts, providing coverage to more than
69 million citizens.
"It's not just about numbers; they represent mothers who survived
childbirth, children who lived to celebrate their fifth birthday,
communities with access to health care ---- and a health
workforce that serves our population day and night,"
he said.
On the other hand, he stressed that the Community Health
Information System currently manages the records of
seven million households - and covers real-time data
of over 33 million citizens. Outbreak detection
capacity increased from 65 to 95%, while
coverage by rapid response teams
reached 93 percent.
He noted that the Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority reached WHO
Maturity Level 3, reinforcing the idea that localization remains a
fundamental health strategy and not merely an industrial policy.
Advocating for unified action across the continent, Daba urged
African delegates to prioritize domestic resource mobilization,
equity and local capacity building.
"Africa's health future will not be built by a single country, a single
institution or a single technology. We will build it together, our
African sisters and brothers," he concluded.
The WHO Regional Committee for Africa discussions, scheduled until
28 August, will assess progress towards regional health targets and
deliberate on new strategies and resolutions.
Participants will identify joint actions to strengthen systems,
move towards universal health coverage, improve security
and strengthen emergency preparedness .........across
the continent.
The Regional Committee, is the governing body of the WHO Regional
Office for Africa. It meets annually to define regional health policies,
review the work of the Organization - and set priorities to improve
the sector's performance across the continent.
_____________________________________________
Africa for greater responsibility
for the health of its population
Addis Ababa, August 25, 6:15am
(Prensa Latina)
The president of the African Union (AU) Commission, Mahmoud Ali
Youssouf, stressed today that Africa must progressively assume
greater responsibility for the health of its population, while
building stronger global alliances.
Speaking at the opening of the 76th session of the World Health
Organization's Regional Committee for Africa, Youssouf said --
that health security is key to achieving "the Africa we want".
He advocated for a coherent African health architecture, based on
greater preparedness, sustainable financing, digital innovation,
local production and effective institutions.
"Collaboration cannot replace ownership," he noted, and urged
that health priorities be increasingly financed with the
continent's own resources.
The AU Commission Chair called for moving "from commitments to
implementation" and dependency to greater health sovereignty,
thus ensuring concrete results for the peoples of Africa.
The session brought together health ministers and senior officials
from the 47 member states to discuss and approve regional
policies, strategies and plans to improve health care for
the continent's population.
______________________________________________
AU ...called Ethiopia's
national dialogue an
example for Africa
Addis Ababa, August 22, 12:14pm
(Prensa Latina)
The former president of Nigeria and High Representative of
the African Union, Olusegun Obasanjo, today described
Ethiopia's national dialogue as historic ---- and an
example for the rest of Africa.
Obasanjo, speaking at the closing ceremony of the conference,
noted that the main objective of the initiative ---- is to ensure
lasting peace, security and stability, in order to achieve the
conditions for the nation's development and growth.
Peace is so important and it is worth giving it one's all, he stressed,
noting that the preparation of this national dialogue took 4 years.
"It was a serious, big task. It is historic and an example for the
rest of us in Africa," he said.
The AU High Representative further stressed.. that there is no
substitute for debate and peace, and acknowledged that the
outcome recommendations will provide durable solutions
to a number of outstanding national issues.
He also stressed the need to further strengthen unity, development,
security, inclusion and prosperity. "We must promote - common
security, stability, shared responsibility and prosperity at the
national, bilateral, regional, continental and global levels,"
he said.
The former Nigerian president explained that peace, security,
stability, unity and sustainable development are essential
to promote the nation's growth and double its GDP
(gross domestic product).
He called for leaving behind the past - of conflict, war, violence,
division and destruction - while expressing his hope... that the
concluded national dialogue will lay the foundation for the
ideals of good governance with great attributes.
He congratulated Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and the National
Dialogue Commission on the successful conclusion and
great achievements of the dialogue.
The National Dialogue Conference began on July 15 focused
on eight fundamental pillars of the agenda: governmental
structure and political system; status of federal cities;
religious affairs; institutional strengthening, rule of
law and human rights; socio-economic issues.
Likewise, its nearly 4,000 participants addressed
corruption, good governance, and peacebuilding.
__________________________________________
National Dialogue Conference,
Ethiopia's shared aspirations
Addis Ababa, August 22, 11:59am
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopia's National Dialogue Conference represents a monumental
milestone that reinforces shared aspirations and unity, as well as
being a cornerstone of the nation's capacity for resolution, an
official source said today.
Ethiopian President Taye Atske-Selassie, speaking at the closing
of the event, thanked the nearly 4,000 participants – including
religious leaders, elders, women, youth, farmers, pastoralists,
academics, political representatives and civic groups –––
who carried the trust and voice of 130 million citizens.
Selassie also acknowledged the organization of a structured
process based on national knowledge and values, the
formulation of agendas focused on the interests of
the country and the establishment of clear
procedures for deliberation.
He stressed that while dialogue is a culture that has long been
rooted in the nation's social fabric, giving this traditional
practice form and structure makes it a fundamental
pillar for building a modern Ethiopia and a
safeguard against today's challenges.
He expressed his sincere gratitude to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed
for promoting the implementation of this initiative, as well as to
the House of People's Representatives, for providing it with a
solid legal basis.
Highlighting the historical value of dialogue, the Ethiopian president
outlined as key results the provision of an environment of maturity
where constructive ideas emerged from divergent perspectives,
for the sake of the common good, as well as political debates
that evolved from impulsive, to serenity and deep reflection.
Likewise, to lay the foundations to transform Ethiopia's political
landscape, away from confrontation and hostility, the definitive
overcoming of political disputes, violence and armed conflicts,
and to raise the level of social interactions by promoting
respectful language with a new standard for civilized
political discourse.
Citing more far-reaching narrative challenges..... the head of
state rejected political platitudes such as "Ethiopia is at a
crossroads" or - "Ethiopia is on the verge of collapse,"
noting that those who repeatedly propagate such
rhetoric seek their own benefit, rather than
follow the true path of the nation.
_____________________________________________
Venezuela and Africa establish roadmap
....to strengthen their mutual exchange
Caracas, August 22, 11:59am
(Prensa Latina)
The Government of Venezuela, ambassadors and heads of
Missions of the African Diplomatic Corps accredited in
Caracas established a strategic roadmap to
strengthen mutual exchange, it was
learned here today.
A post by the Venezuelan Minister for Foreign Affairs and
International Trade, Félix Plascencia, announced the
working meeting held the day before at the H.Q. of
the Foreign Ministry, where he conveyed the
greetings of the president in charge,
Delcy Rodríguez.
At the meeting "we established a strategic roadmap" aimed
at strengthening mutual exchange and consolidating the
historical ties of brotherhood between Venezuela and
Mother Africa... to advance a common agenda of
dialogue and cooperation for the benefit of
both peoples, he explained.... on his
Instagram account.
The African continent and the Bolivarian Republic - strengthened
their diplomatic relations in 1999 with the arrival of Commander
Hugo Chávez to power, who encouraged a new type of
relationship -- to link up with that part of the world,
which had previously, under rightwing regimes,
been ignored.
Before that date, Venezuela barely maintained diplomatic ties with
eight African nations, four of them in the north and the rest in the
south of the continent, and in half a century only 30 cooperation
agreements had been signed.
Bolivarian diplomacy ...currently maintains relations with the vast
majority of the 54 states of that region, and signed a total of 500
cooperation agreements in areas such as energy, oil, education,
mining, agriculture, science and technology in just over 20
years, according to official sources.
______________________________________________
President of the Ivorian Parliament
arrives in Vietnam for official visit
Hanoi, August 22, 10:18am
(Prensa Latina)
The president of the National Assembly of Côte d'Ivoire,
Patrick Achi, arrived today in this capital to begin an
official visit to Vietnam... until the 26th.
Achi's trip, the second by a parliamentary leader of the African
country to Hanoi in three years after the one made by Adama
Bictogo, in June 2023, comes at the invitation of his
Vietnamese counterpart, Tran Thanh Man.
As part of his agenda, the parliamentary leader will be received by
his host counterpart Thanh Man and pay a courtesy visit to the
General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam and
President of the Republic, To Lam, according to the
Vietnam News Agency.
The visit takes place ...shortly after Vietnam and Côte d'Ivoire
commemorated the 50th anniversary of the establishment of
diplomatic relations, on October 6, 2025. It is the first time
that the National Assembly of Côte d'Ivoire has organized
a delegation to conduct studies and exchange in-depth
experiences with the National Assembly of Vietnam.
Côte d'Ivoire is Vietnam's largest trading partner in Africa, although
both sides believe that there is still ample scope to expand trade.
To that end, the two countries are making progress in negotiations
and signing key legal instruments, including the Agreement on
the Promotion and Protection of Investments, the Treaty for
the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Memorandum
of Understanding on Economic and Trade Cooperation.
__________________________________________________
Significant increase in Turkish
exports to Africa reported
Ankara, August 22, 7:35am
(Prensa Latina)
Türkiye's exports to African countries increased by 12.6%
year-on-year during the first seven months of the year
and exceeded 13.3 billion dollars.
According to data released by Anadolu Agency, Turkish sales to
Africa registered an increase of 16.3% in July compared to the
same month of the previous year, reaching approximately
2.3 billion dollars.
Egypt was the top African destination for Turkish exports during
July, with a year-on-year growth of 49.3% and a volume worth
$426.2 million.
In the first seven months of the year, Turkish exports to the
Egyptian market exceeded 2.3 billion U.S. dollars, an
increase of 26.1%.
Nigeria recorded one of the fastest growth rates among
major African markets, with an increase of 52.1% and e
xports of $453.2 million.
South Africa also saw positive developments,
rising 31.3% --------- to $479 million.
Chairman of the Coordination Council of Turkish-African Business
Councils of the Türkiye Council on Foreign Economic Relations
Osman Aksoy explained that trade growth is mainly supported
by three factors: logistics capacity, the activity of Turkish
contractor companies and economic diplomacy.
Aksoy noted that the expansion of Turkish Airlines and maritime
networks, along with Turkish projects, in sectors such as ports,
roads, housing and airports, have contributed to strengthening
Türkiye's commercial presence... in Africa. Among the most
competitive sectors he mentioned are industrial machinery
and equipment, electronics, automotive, chemicals, iron
and steel, textiles, food, and construction materials.
The business representative said that the next stage should focus
on moving from the export of products to the development of joint
investments, local production, distribution networks, and shared
financing mechanisms.
Relations between Türkiye and Africa have undergone significant
expansion over the past few decades. According to the data, the
number of Turkish embassies on the continent rose from 12 in
2002 to 44 in 2023, while Turkish Airlines currently connects
Türkiye with over 60 African destinations, facilitating trade
and business exchanges.
________________________________
Digital platforms for procedures
launched
in Burkina Faso
Ouagadougou, August 21, 12:18pm
(Prensa Latina)
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Burkina Faso today has
three digital platforms to simplify administrative,
protocol and consular services.
Foreign Minister Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré pointed out
that these projects benefit the Burkinabe diaspora and
diplomatic missions abroad.
He also urged diplomatic missions to regularly update
the platforms, while inviting users to use them and
transmit their observations.
The inauguration of the sites was attended by members of
the diplomatic corps accredited in this African nation and
other government authorities.
According to the Foreign Ministry, one of the online sites
is the Burkinabe Diaspora Portal, which will enable
residents abroad to register in the consular
register and request appointments for
certain consular procedures.
Another platform, called E-Protocole, is intended for
embassies and international organizations
accredited in Burkina Faso.
This website provides applications for diplomatic cards,
access cards to the official lounges of Ouagadougou
and Bobo-Dioulasso airports, plus applications for
special authorisations.
The third platform centralises the Ministry's website and those
of its 52 diplomatic missions and consular posts, which will
strengthen the visibility of Burkinabe diplomacy and
improve access to information, the Foreign
Ministry stressed.
______________________________________
U.N. Calls for Strengthening Aid
to Congo --- in the Face of
Ebola Spread
UN, August 21, 9:37am
(Prensa Latina)
The United Nations today reiterated its call to strengthen aid to
the Democratic Republic of Congo in the fight against the
Ebola epidemic, considered the deadliest in its history.
On its official website, the UN considered that international
assistance must be urgent and pointed out that its teams
on the ground are running out of funds to help the sick.
The multilateral organization indicated that, since May 15 of this
year, over 5,000 infections and more than 2,000 deaths were
reported, including health workers.
About 900 people remain isolated or hospitalized.
We only have funds for the next few weeks. Each delay in funding
makes this epidemic more lethal, difficult to stop, and costly.
Therefore, we need that international support
immediately, said UN Senior Coordinator
Julien Harneis.
The disease spreads exponentially. Half of the deaths occurred in
the last 20 days. Infections are growing faster than the response,
he said.
In addition, he pointed out that difficult working conditions
hinder the work of health personnel on the front line.
In three months --- 160 members of the aid
teams fell ill and 43 of them died, he said.
"Conditions on the ground are extremely complex, but we will
continue to deploy all necessary humanitarian and medical
assistance until the task is completed," he said.
___________________________________________________
Ethiopia for regional cooperation
----- for resilient health systems
Addis Ababa, August 21, 9:36am
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopia's Health Minister Mekdes Daba, today, urged stronger
regional cooperation and public-private partnerships - to build
resilient and self-sufficient health systems across East Africa.
Speaking at the opening of the 13th International Conference and
Exhibition of East African Health Federations in 21-23 August in
this capital, Daba said that health security, financing, supply
chains, technology, and climate change all extend beyond
national borders --- and require joint solutions.
He stated that Ethiopia is committed to strengthening local
pharmaceutical and medical manufacturing, research and
development to reduce vulnerability to potential external
supply disruptions.
"The pandemic has left this lesson - unequivocally clear: the
region cannot afford to do it again. We cannot afford to be
shut down without having medicines close to us,"
he stressed.
He also called for greater investment in specialized health care,
including cardiac care, oncology, neurosurgery, children's
health care and complex surgeries.
In this case, he continued, stronger regional linkages can
expand health services and cross-border referrals.
In this regard, he reported that Ethiopia is working to create a
more predictable environment for investment in health, while
strengthening regulation and patient protection.
He mentioned.. that the local Food and Drug Authority reached
the World Health Organization's maturity level 3, while urging
stronger regulatory capacity in East Africa.
He also said Addis Ababa expanded primary health care,
infrastructure and its workforce, while the rate of
skilled attendance at births exceeded 64%,
.....according to the country's latest
Demographic & Health Survey.
The minister also highlighted -- the expansion of digital health and
telehealth. He linked health to climate, food and nutrition through
a One Health approach, citing the Green Legacy Initiative & the
Seqota Declaration (aimed at eradicating child malnutrition)
as examples of integrated development efforts.
The Ministry's Registry of Master Centers accounts for more than
30,000 private facilities, he said, creating a basis for investment
and the better planning of services.
"Health is not simply seen as an investment that is lost, but
an investment that generates returns," he said. Finally, he
underlined the government's commitment to conceive of
health care as an investment in people & the economy.
_________________________________________________________
Nigeria expects increased
economic growth
Abuja, August 20, 1:02pm
(Prensa Latina)
Nigeria projected economic growth of 4.2 percent for the
second half of 2026, media outlets reported today.
A report on the country's economic outlook detailed ----- that
this growth will be supported by higher crude oil production.
It added that recent reforms have improved macroeconomic
stability, but have not yet translated into household well-
being and business conditions.
Nigeria's gross domestic product grew 3.89 percent year-on-year
in the first quarter of 2026, compared with 3.13 percent in the
same period of 2025, it stated.
In addition, it pointed out that the development of Information and
Communication Technologies, the Finance and Insurance sector
and the Construction and Agriculture sector ..contributed to
this growth.
Among other economic aspects of Nigeria, the report said that the
volume of operations in the foreign exchange market increased
43.6 percent month-on-month to 12.92 billion dollars in June.
Foreign direct investment remained weak at just $135.1 million,
accounting for 1.3 percent of total flows, he said.
Likewise, for companies, especially micro, small and medium-
sized ones, access to credit is still a major limitation.
The document pointed out that the main challenge for the second
half of the year will be to transform macroeconomic stabilization
into greater purchasing power of households, stronger SMEs,
greater productivity and productive investment.
____________________________________
UNICEF warns of monkeypox
infections in Guinea Bissau
UN, August 20, 12:30pm
(Prensa Latina)
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) warned today about
the increase in the number of minors suspected of suffering from
monkeypox in Guinea Bissau.
Through its official websites, the agency assured that it
contributes to strengthening surveillance, prevention
and work with communities in the face of the risk
of unidentified chains of transmission.
Although the seven cases confirmed since July 4 are adults,
half of the 46 suspected people are under 15 years of age
and the authorities fear that there are more undetected,
UNICEF said.
He also expressed concern about the presence of 16 children
under the age of four, a group that faces a higher risk of
developing complications.
"This is the first time cases have been reported in Guinea Bissau,
turning a small outbreak into a major public health event," said
UNICEF Deputy Representative Sandra Martins.
Martins warned that the surveillance system is "extremely fragile"
and there is a risk that some infections will go unnoticed,
particularly among the most vulnerable.
He also pointed out that the confirmed cases do not seem to be
related to each other, so the authorities assess the possibility
of the existence of undetected chains.
UNICEF said it is working with the Ministry of Public Health,
the World Health Organization (WHO) and other partners to
strengthen surveillance and contact tracing, improve
infection prevention and control measures, and
strengthen access to water, sanitation and
hygiene in health facilities.
Monkeypox is caused by the mpox virus and can cause a painful
rash, swollen lymph nodes, fever, headache, muscle pain, back
pain, and a lack of energy.
According to the WHO, most people recover
completely, but some become seriously ill.
It is mainly transmitted by close contact with someone who is sick,
from contaminated objects, puncture wounds and by bites or
scratches from infected animals, among others.
____________________________________
Nicaragua welcomes re-election
of Zambian president
Managua, August 20, 11:31am
(Prensa Latina)
The co-presidents of Nicaragua, Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo,
congratulated Hakainde Hichilema on his re-election as president
of Zambia, local media reported today.
In a message, the Nicaraguan leaders on behalf of the People and
Government of Reconciliation and National Unity and on their
own, greeted the ruler for the renewal of his mandate, which,
they pointed out, ratifies the confidence of the people in the
leadership of the African country.
The Co-Chairs expressed their confidence that the people of Zambia
will continue to advance along paths of well-being and prosperity,
while highlighting the commonalities between the two peoples in
upholding the right to live in a just, free and peaceful world, as
well as independence, sovereignty and self-determination.
They also reiterated the willingness of the Government of Nicaragua
to continue strengthening the relations of friendship and solidarity
that have historically united the peoples and governments of
both nations.
"From our Nicaragua, Blessed and Always Free, receive our Fraternal
Embrace and the Affection of the Nicaraguan People," says the
message addressed to President Hichilema.
_____________________________________
Nigerian Civil Society... for Reviewing
Early Childhood Education Programs
Abuja, August 20, 11:28am
(Prensa Latina)
Civil society organizations in Nigeria called on the National
Assembly --- to examine the policy frameworks, sources of
financing, educational materials --- among other aspects..
underpinning early childhood education programs today.
During a media briefing on children, family values, education and
public policy, the African Policy Research and Advisory Centre
(Cafpra) led the proposal that calls on lawmakers for a
closer review.
CAFPRA Executive Director Segun Adebayo called for consultation
with parents, educators, civil society groups, children's rights
advocates, and community leaders before adopting policies
and programs related to children and youth.
He argued that Nigeria should not automatically adopt international
policy frameworks without first assessing their compatibility with
the country's laws, culture, family structures and
institutional realities.
According to Cafpra, concepts such as.. bodily autonomy, sexual
rights, and gender identity must be clearly defined before being
incorporated into legislation, government policies, or
educational materials for children.
The organization considered that there should be greater
transparency in the development, financing and
implementation of programs that affect
children and young people, so it
invited government agencies
to disclose their objectives,
sources of financing - and
activities agreements.
_____________________________________
Xi congratulates Hichilema on
his presidential re-election
in Zambia
Beijing, August 20, 9:38am
(Prensa Latina)
Chinese President Xi Jinping congratulated Hakainde Hichilema
on his re-election as president of Zambia and expressed his
willingness to deepen the comprehensive strategic
partnership of cooperation between the
two countries.
Xi recalled in his message that the two leaders met twice in recent
years and jointly guided the development of bilateral relations.
He highlighted the continued deepening of political mutual trust
and the fruitful results of practical cooperation between China
and Zambia.
He also noted the close coordination and cooperation
of the two nations in multilateral affairs.
Xi affirmed that he attaches great importance to the development of
ties with Zambia ....and expressed his willingness to work together
with Hichilema to implement the outcomes of the Beijing Summit
of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.
The Chinese president also advocated -- promoting traditional
friendship, maintaining firm mutual support and continuously
raising the level of win-win cooperation.
According to Xi, these efforts will make it possible to take the
China-Zambia comprehensive strategic partnership of
cooperation to new stages and better benefit the
people of both countries.
China and Zambia have maintained diplomatic relations since 1964
& their cooperation includes sectors such as infrastructure, trade,
mining and agriculture, as well as close coordination within the
framework of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.
__________________________________________
Lesotho, in collaboration with the UN,
strengthens the use of remittances
Addis Ababa, August 20, 8:20am
(Prensa Latina)
Lesotho, in collaboration with the Economic Commission for Africa
(ECA) and the United Nations, strengthened its capacity to take
advantage of remittances, diaspora investment, skills and
networks for national and sustainable development, it
was announced today.
A statement from the ECA reported that the topic was the focus
of the workshop on the National Remittances and Investment
Framework held in Maseru on August 18, with the
participation of policymakers, financial
institutions, private sector reps,
development partners and
other stakeholders.
The meeting was part of the Regional Commission's programme
on strengthening the link between migration and development
in Africa, which supports six countries.. to integrate diaspora
contributions into national development plans & strategies.
The Director of Financial & Private Sector Affairs at Lesotho's
Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, Maseeiso
Lekholoane, called for the diaspora to be seen as no
longer primarily a source of family remittances
and to be recognized as a strategic partner
in development.
Lekholoane underscored its potential contribution via financial
capital, skills, knowledge, entrepreneurship, technology and
international networks, identifying agriculture and
agribusiness, manufacturing & tourism, among
others, for productive investment.
For his part, the Chief of Section of the ECA Subregional Office for
North Africa, Khaled Hussein, highlighted the magnitude of the
opportunity presented in Lesotho.
Hussein revealed that remittances account for about 21%
of the country's gross domestic product (GDP), while the
savings of overseas residents offer additional potential
for development financing.
He warned - that those remittances are a solid financial source for
Maseru's economy, but dependence comes with risks, hence
the need to strengthen data, financial regulation and the
business environment to channel a greater proportion..
towards long-term investments such as renewable
energy and tourism.
The workshop placed the Lesotho experience in
the broader context of African financing.
According to the ECA, Africa received approximately $124 billion in
remittances in 2025, along with an estimated $53 billion from the
diaspora abroad, while facing an estimated annual financing
gap of between $400 billion and $1.2 trillion.
The participants analyzed how to allocate a greater proportion of
these remittances and the savings of residents abroad, beyond
family consumption, towards productive investment, business
development, job creation and long-term capital formation.
____________________________________________
Ethiopia & Russia are committed
to strengthening technological
cooperation
Addis Ababa, August 20, 6:53am
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopia and Russia --- are working to further strengthen their
cooperation in technology, with research and development,
human capital development and technology transfer...
among key areas, an official source said today.
This was expressed by Russia's ambassador in Addis Ababa, Evgeny
Terekhin, on a visit to the Institute of Artificial Intelligence. He also
highlighted the long-standing bilateral relations and strong
cooperation between the two countries.
Terekhin underlined the willingness of Russia and Ethiopia to further
strengthen their cooperation in research and development, human
capital development and technology transfer.
For his part, the institute's Director General, Worku Gachena,
provided an update on the key activities carried out by the
centre as part of the country's digital transformation.
Gachena stated that research and development activities
promote significant progress in the priority social and
economic sectors, at a national level.
He considered that the technology partnership between Ethiopia
and Russia is aligned with the broader BRICS agenda of
leveraging artificial intelligence for shared
development and mutual benefit.
_____________________________________________
International partners...... acknowledge
progress in Ethiopian national dialogue
Addis Ababa, August 20, 6:13am
(Prensa Latina)
Representatives of Ethiopia's international development partners
today highlighted the ongoing National Dialogue Conference and
the information received on the progress and main advances of
the process.
The delegation is composed of members from several countries that
support the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission (ENDC), with
the coordination of the United Nations Development Programme
and the Ministry of Finance.
During their visit to the conference site, which has been hosted by
the Addis Ababa International Convention Centre since 15 July,
the delegation toured the facilities and saw the National
Dialogue process.
The commissioners of the ENDC offered information on the main
events and activities undertaken within the framework of the
great event that brings together 4,000 delegates from all
sectors of the country, and the diaspora.
The agenda of debates includes topics on the construction of the
state, identity and history; the structure of government, including
federalism and power centres; the situation in the federal cities,
including Addis Ababa; religious affairs; and institution-building
with a focus on the rule of law and human rights.
Likewise, socio-economic development and resource
management; the fight against corruption; and
peacebuilding and national reconciliation.
_____________________________________________
Risks to aid workers
in Africa - warning
Dakar, August 19, 12:33pm
(Prensa Latina)
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian
Affairs (OCHA) warned today about the risks and dangers
faced by humanitarian workers in Africa.
This Wednesday is World Humanitarian Day, so OCHA called
for protection for civilians and workers who are in areas of
conflagration in the region.
He noted --- that millions of people are exposed amid armed conflict
and increased violence, thousands are forcibly displaced, and
face difficulties in accessing food, health care, education
and essential services.
According to OCHA figures, in 2026 there are five humanitarian
workers who have died, nine injured and 14 - were kidnapped.
The head of OCHA's Regional Office for West and Central Africa,
Charles Bernimolin, urged the parties to the conflict to ensure
the safety of these aid workers, "the women and men who
bring the aid are not targets," he said.
Bernimolin called for respect for international law, safe and
unhindered humanitarian access and accountability for
the perpetrators of attacks on these workers.
The United Nations organization also stressed its concern about
the growing use of drones and other emerging technologies in
conflicts, which contributes to increasing the danger to
humanitarian operations.
Other OCHA data indicate that 15,352 people died
between January and the end of July 2026.
He also mentioned that the reduction in humanitarian funding
comes at a time when needs are increasing, forcing aid
organizations to make difficult decisions.. which limit
the ability to reach the most vulnerable populations.
____________________________________________
Ecuador's Intelligence Chief
Dies in Kenya Plane Crash
Quito, August 19, 11:50am
(Prensa Latina)
The head of Ecuador's National Intelligence Centre
Michele Sensi-Contugi, and his wife, Stephany
Hollihan, died today in a helicopter crash
that occurred in northern Kenya.
Local Ecuadorian media reported the news, although
an official statement from the Executive is expected.
The crash occurred near Mount Ololokwe in Samburu County,
where the aircraft crashed while covering the route between
Loisaba and Ewasonyiro, according to the Kenya Civil
Aviation Authority.
The agency reported the death of seven people, including
six tourists and the pilot, although so far, it has not
officially released the nationalities of the victims
or the causes of the accident.
Sensi-Contugi, a businessman and politician close to
President Daniel Noboa, had led the intelligence
agency since August 2024.
Previously, in April of that year, he was appointed Minister
of Government, replacing Mónica Palencia, a position he
held for a few months before Noboa entrusted that
portfolio to Arturo Félix Wong.
Sensi-Contugi also served as a delegate of the Executive
on the boards of public companies, including.... the
Electric Corporation of Ecuador, the Ecuadorian
Oil Fleet and Petroecuador.
The agency he currently headed was originally created as the
Strategic Intelligence Centre (CIES) and adopted the name
National Intelligence Centre in July 2025.
______________________________________
WHO: Ebola epidemic
remains unchecked
Geneva, August 19, 9:03am
(Prensa Latina)
The Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO),
Tedros Adhanom warned that the Ebola epidemic in the
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remains
uncontrolled to this day.
The WHO's alarm message was issued after almost five thousand
infected people were reported, mainly in the DRC with more than
two thousand 300 deaths.
"The outbreak is driven by insecurity and displacement, as well as
intense population movements along roads, rivers and mining
routes," the health agency official stressed.
He stressed that the epidemic continues to be dangerous, and
"we have to be honest: the epidemic is far from under control."
What is worrying is that the victims are registered outside the
treatment centres and outside the lists of known contacts,
said the director at the second meeting of the Emergency
Committee of the International Health Regulations.
"Each of these deaths points to a chain of transmission
that we have not yet located," Adhanom warned.
In his opinion, the epidemic will continue until all those
chains of transmission are not registered and broken.
We are strengthening surveillance, expanding health care
capacity, supporting safe burials, and promoting clinical
trials for vaccines and treatments, the WHO Director-
General concluded.
_________________________________________________________
DRC & Tanzania formalize framework
for critical minerals management
Kinshasa, August 19, 12:41am
(Prensa Latina)
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Tanzania formalized a
technical cooperation framework focused on the management of
critical minerals and the exchange of strategic geological data,
the Congolese Presidency said today.
As part of DRC President Felix Tshisekedi's visit to Zanzibar, where
he spoke with his counterpart, Samia Suluhu Hassan, the two
governments also set the guidelines for the technical
assessment of mutually beneficial opportunities
in the oil and natural gas sectors.
The talks allowed the heads of state to reaffirm their commitment
to strengthen bilateral relations and cooperation in the face of
regional challenges and problems; while in the economic
sphere they promoted the revitalization of the Joint
Permanent Commission and the establishment of
a strategic alliance.
They also discussed... the modernization of transport infrastructure
along the Central Corridor, an effort that includes the rehabilitation
of port infrastructure in Dar es Salaam, Kigoma and Kalemie,
plus the strengthening of lake transport and progressive
rail interconnection.
The project also includes the deployment of a cross-border fibre
optic backbone, all of which should contribute to boosting
economic zones and facilitating trade flows.
According to the account of the Congolese Presidency in X,
Tanzania took the opportunity to reaffirm its commitment
to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC in
the face of the situation in the east of the country,
and both heads of state demanded immediate
respect for international law.
They referred in particular to the withdrawal of foreign
forces from Congolese territory, as well as the
cessation of hostilities.
The Tanzanian president also pledged to send emergency
health assistance to the DRC, as a show of solidarity in
the face of the Ebola epidemic, and assured that her
country is ready to provide the necessary aid.
________________________________________________
Hakainde Hichilema is
re-elected President
of Zambia
Lusaka, August 18, 1:15pm
(Prensa Latina)
The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) today
declared Hakainde Hichilema as re-elected
president in the 2026 general elections.
According to the published data, Hichilema obtained
about 60% of the votes cast in a race for the
presidency, in which more than a dozen
candidates faced each other.
In last Thursday's votes, some five million votes were cast,
of which Hichilema obtained 2,965,326 ballots in his
favour, and his closest rival, Brian Mundubile, of
the National Reconciliation Party for Unity
& Prosperity, received 1,856,217 votes.
In these elections, deputies to the National Assembly
and the regional and local authorities, were elected.
The national electoral process was overshadowed by the
halt of the counting of ballots after violent incidents
involving several voting centres, the ECZ said.
Under Zambia's electoral law, the candidate who obtains
more than 50 percent of the valid votes is declared the
winner in the first round.
____________________________________________
Cuba highlights --- words
of Namibian president
on Fidel's centenary
Havana, August 18, 11:16am
(Prensa Latina)
Cuban President Miguel-Diaz-Canel today highlighted the words
spoken by the president of Namibia, Netumbo Nandi, on the
occasion of the celebrations for the centenary of
Fidel Castro in that African nation.
"The firm words of the sister president of Namibia, Netumbo Nandi,
on the occasion of the Centennial of Commander in Chief Fidel
Castro Ruz, accompanied by his people and other main
leaders of his nation, are moving and comforting to
#Cuba," Diaz-Canel wrote on his official profile
in X.
The Cuban president added that "We will never fail the legacy
of #Fidel and the love that he sowed in us for Africa."
On the same digital platform, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno
Rodríguez thanked Netumbo Nandi for his statement,
while highlighting the brotherhood, solidarity and
cooperation between the two countries.
"The brotherhood, solidarity and cooperation between the two
peoples were forged in the just struggle against apartheid in
southern Africa and for the independence of the beloved
Namibian people," said Rodríguez.
The Namibian president paid tribute --- to the historic leader of the
Cuban Revolution at the island's diplomatic mission in Windhoek,
where she stressed ...that Fidel sowed seeds of generosity and
internationalism, and described him as a dear friend of Africa
and one of the most important leaders of the 20th century.
The president said that the history of Namibia's independence
cannot be told without the participation of Fidel Castro and
the Cuban people.
He also recalled Cuban support against apartheid and demanded
an end to the U.S. blockade against the Caribbean nation, a
policy that he described as inhumane and contrary to
the principles of the United Nations (UN).
The Namibian leader also urged the new generations to defend
freedom and human dignity through sacrifice, courage and
collective unity.
____________________________________________________
Ethiopia outlines actions
to prevent child wasting
Addis Ababa, August 18, 9:01am
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopia - is intensifying its efforts to prevent child wasting through
government leadership, greater investment, strengthening health
systems and community participation, an official source
said today.
The chief of staff of the Ministry of Health, Mebratu Massebo,
speaking at a regional evaluation and learning meeting on
the subject, said that Addis Ababa attaches greater
priority to the prevention of this condition and
works to strengthen the health system.
It also ensures that communities play a leading role
in the implementation of the programs.
Massebo said that ending childhood pathological weight loss,
requires more than treating acute malnutrition, and stressed
the importance of prevention, the early detection of risks,
community-based systems and access to health
services and essential nutritional supplies.
He also mentioned that Ethiopia brings together the efforts of
various ministries to address the multiple factors that
contribute to malnutrition, such as food insecurity,
poverty, climate shocks and displacement.
He said the country's system allows the Ministry of Health
to coordinate with sectors such as agriculture, education,
social protection, women's affairs and disaster
risk management.
He added that the government increased its financial
commitment to nutrition – including funding
programmes against severe acute
malnutrition – making it a
top budget priority.
He recalled that the annual budget quintupled last year and
wa increased by 26% in the current period, while high-
lighting the importance of precise data to guide
government decisions.
In this regard, the Chief of Staff explained the use of
information from various nutrition and health
platforms to improve the quality of data
and strengthen interoperability.
For his part, the representative of the World Health Organization
and head of the mission in Ethiopia, Francis Chisaka Kasolo,
said that Africa continues to bear one of the highest
burdens of child wasting.... worldwide.
Kasolo called for sustained political commitment, predictable
investments, stronger partnerships and national systems
capable of preventing malnutrition, detecting it early
and providing timely and quality care.
The regional review meeting brought together representatives
from 11 African countries and regional and international
partners to assess progress made over the past
three years in preventing child wasting.
_________________________________________
Electricity rates are
''partially updated''
in Angola
Luanda, August 15, 3:47pm
(Prensa Latina)
Angola's Regulatory Institute of Electricity and Water Services
(Irsea) reported today the partial update of tariffs for medium
and high voltage public services, which affects the
commercial, service and industrial sectors.
According to a note from the institution, this adjustment (increase)
will be applied to the 2025-2028 tariff cycle, as well as to the
Required Annual Revenues (RAR) of public companies in
the sector, in accordance with the General Electricity
Law, tariff regulations and the guidelines of the
National Development Plan (PND) 2023-2027.
The measure does not cover residential consumers......while the
amounts for the social, single-phase domestic and three-phase
domestic categories remain unchanged, the statement added.
Irsea explained that the revision applies mainly to medium and
high voltage customers with a contracted power equal to or
greater than 2000 kVA, belonging to the commercial,
service and industrial sectors.
He specified - that a specific tariff regime will come into force
for them, with greater adjustment to the costs of production,
transport, distribution and marketing of energy, in addition
to the operational regime of the network.
According to the institution, the action seeks to strengthen the
financial sustainability of the electricity sector, guarantee the
maintenance and modernization of infrastructure and
contribute to improving the quality, continuity and
reliability of the electricity supply.
They also hope that it will contribute to attracting new public
and private investment to the sector and promoting more
balanced rates, aligned with the efficient costs of
providing the service.
________________________________________
Congo reaffirms - its commitment to
development on Independence Day
Brazzaville, August 15, 2:59pm
(Prensa Latina)
Congolese President, Denis Sassou-N'Guesso, ratified the
commitment to accelerating the country's development,
as they celebrate today the 66th anniversary of its
independence from France, on August 15, 1960.
In a message to the nation on the date.... the president said
that the occasion invites collective reflection, & magnifies
the national identity, at a time when work is being done
with the objective of achieving -------- a faster march
towards development.
He reaffirmed the political will to prioritize that commitment,
good governance, the mobilization of adequate resources
and the consistent management of projects, as well as
the proper execution of the economic and financial
reforms under way.
The head of state highlighted the resilience of the people,
who have assumed their destiny with optimism and
confidence, and once again placed their trust in
the Government during the general elections
held on March 15.
"The acceleration of the march towards development will not be
reduced.... to a single phrase of style or a slogan," emphasized
Sassou-N'Guesso, who maintained that as announced earlier,
the implementation of visa waivers........ will begin for all
African countries.
On the occasion of the 66th anniversary of national independence,
a civil and military parade was held, which was led by the
Congolese President and Supreme Commander of
the Armed Forces.
Prime Minister, Anatole Collinet Macosso, also addressed a
congratulatory message to the people on the anniversary,
in which he called to be resilient in the face of the tests
of the moment and to serve as a boost for the
development of the country and the
continent - which will be effective
with work, unity and solidarity,
he said.
_________________________________
Fidel Castro's vision of solidarity
and legacy stand out --- in Benin
Cotonou, August 15, 12:55pm
(Prensa Latina)
The solidarity vision of the historical leader of the Cuban Revolution,
Fidel Castro (1926-2016), and the importance of his legacy for the
new generations .......were exalted in Benin during a tribute
for his centennial, Prensa Latina learned today.
Through a space called "Meeting of generations of Beninese
graduates in Cuba: Fidel in our lives", people who studied in
the Caribbean nation, members of the diplomatic corps
accredited in the country, Cuban residents and
friends in solidarity with the island, reflected
on the life and work of the statesman.
The meeting, which was also attended by Deputy Degla Assouan
Comlan Benoit, also became a stage for the condemnation of
the US' economic, commercial and financial blockade, as
well as for a reaffirmation of friendship between Cuba
and Benin.
Sponsored by the Embassy of the Caribbean nation in this African
country & the Association of Beninese Trained in Cuba (ABeFoC),
the event became a space to share experiences of those who
studied on the island and assessments of the impact of that
period on their lives and the ideas of Fidel Castro.
Graduates from different specialties.. offered their testimonies and
assured that the ideas and example of the Cuban leader continue
to guide their work in Benin, in addition to thanking Cuban
solidarity with the world and especially with Africa and
their country.
Ambassador Denisse Amaro ---- when addressing those present,
recalled Fidel Castro's vision of solidarity and his commitment
to the training of young Africans ---- as a founding pillar of
South-South cooperation.
At another point in his speech, he denounced the intensification of
the economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed by the
US, which severely affects vital sectors, such as health and
energy in Cuba, while thanking Benin --- for its gestures
of support.
On behalf of the Beninese government, the Deputy Secretary
General of the Foreign Ministry..... Amour-Marie Ako,
congratulated the Cuban people & government
on the centenary of the statesman (August
13, 1926), a date of true celebration.
He also highlighted.. Fidel Castro's legacy in Africa
and the good state of the cooperative relationship
between Benin and Cuba.
On the occasion, the exhibition Urgent Poster x Cuba was
also presented, a sample of silkscreen posters created
by visual artists from various countries that denounce
the U.S. blockade and call for solidarity with the
Caribbean nation.
______________________________
Signing of agreements seals
rapprochement between
Egypt and Turkiye
Cairo, August 15, 12:53pm
(Prensa Latina)
The signing of several cooperation agreements between
Egypt and Turkiye confirms that both countries are
transitioning today from the cold Arctic...
to warm areas.
The pacts, which cover the spheres of transport, infrastructure,
logistics connectivity, investment and free trade, were signed
by the respective foreign ministers, the Egyptian Badr
Abdelatty & his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan,
in the Mediterranean city of El Alameinn, the
official announcement said.
The rapprochement between the two countries was almost palpable
in recent months due to high-level meetings focused on the crisis
in the Persian Gulf, a cause of concern for both Muslim states.
Ties between Cairo and Ankara fell to sharp levels, after the 2013
overthrow of President Mohamed Morsi, a member of the Muslim
Brotherhood executive, a group with which the ruling party in
Turkiye had privileged relations.
The thaw between Cairo and Ankara ......transcends the sphere of
economic and technical collaboration, particularly after Turkiye,
Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, signed the Mecca mutual defense
agreement last week ---- that noted the crisis caused in the
Persian Gulf by the attacks of the US&Israel against Iran.
Unconfirmed versions mention the possibility that Egypt is
considering joining the agreement, an addition that
would give it the surname of strategic since it
establishes that aggression against one of
the members will be considered an
action against all.
Egypt would add geographical, historical, territorial weight,
control of the Suez Canal and mass demographics with its
112,716,600 inhabitants.
Given this provision, the mere fact that Pakistan possesses
nuclear weapons is a retaining wall for Israel, which also
has them, although........ it does not admit or deny it.
Tel Aviv's ambitions to annex territories ranging from the Nile
Rivers in Egypt to the Euphrates in Iraq are a source of
concern for more than one government in the Levant.
In Turkiye's terms, recent statements by Benjamin
Netanyahu's likely successor as head of the
Israeli government, Naftali Bennet, are
viewed with caution since without
much protocol, he assured that
one of his first acts as ruler,
will be to "settle accounts
with Turkiye".
_____________________________
Ethiopian National Dialogue,
a model ------- for solving
challenges in Africa
Addis Ababa, August 15, 12am
(Prensa Latina)
The National Dialogue underway today in Ethiopia emerges as
a distinctive African model for resolving complex political and
social challenges through a grassroots-driven process, an
official source said.
The president of the Ethiopian Institute of Public Diplomacy, Yassin
Ahmed, speaking to the Ethiopian News Agency noted that the
Ethiopian experience marks a significant departure from
similar initiatives that were traditionally shaped by
political agreements between elites, party
leaders and state actors.
Ahmed noted that in much of Africa, those processes often follow
a top-down approach -- in which agreements are reached at the
leadership level before being presented to the general public.
While such processes may produce political settlements, they may
not fully reflect the concerns and aspirations of citizens in diverse
communities, he stressed.
Ethiopia, he emphasized, took a different path. "What distinguishes
Ethiopia's National Dialogue is that it was launched on the
principle of dialogue from the bottom to the top, rather
than the other way around," he recalled.
The scholar noted that the national dialogue began with
extensive consultations in communities across the
country, bringing together clan elders, religious
leaders, women, youth, farmers, academics
and civil society representatives.
He stressed that these consultations were aimed at identifying
citizens' concerns and priorities before being elevated to the
national agenda.
He described the approach as a significant institutional and
political shift in Ethiopia's modern history. "For decades,
national political problems were largely addressed
through hierarchical and elite-driven systems,"
he said.
However, he reflected, "the current process reverses that logic
by placing local communities and ordinary citizens at the
starting point of national deliberations."
Ahmed argued that this citizen-centred approach offers an
important lesson for African countries seeking lasting
solutions ..........to deep-seated political and
social challenges.
By grounding dialogue in local participation, governments
can strengthen public ownership of national processes
and improve the legitimacy of outcomes, he said.
He also considered that the importance of Ethiopia's
experience is closely linked..... to the scale and
diversity of the country.
"With a population of more than 130 million and a rich mosaic
of ethnic groups, languages and cultures, managing national
diversity through dialogue... is an extraordinarily complex
task," he acknowledged.
At the same time, the interviewee emphasized that
meaningful political participation cannot coexist
with armed confrontation.
In his view, participation in the National Dialogue requires a
commitment to peaceful political engagement, arguing
that violence and military activity undermine the
necessary conditions for inclusive
democratic deliberation.
He recalled that the national dialogue was established through
legislation passed by the House of People's Representatives
(Parliament) and is administered by an independent
commission that provides the process with an
official legal basis ....and the institutional
mechanism to address key issues.
The Ethiopian experience demonstrates that inclusive national
dialogue can serve as a practical framework for diversity
management, consensus-building and addressing
complex policy issues in pluralistic African
societies, he said.
As African countries continue to seek sustainable approaches
to peacebuilding and democratic governance, Ethiopia's
grassroots-to-national model offers a potentially
important contribution to the continent's
evolving dialogue architecture,
he concluded.
________________________________________
Angola reaffirms commitment ----
to make a better world possible
Luanda, August 14, 4:20pm
(Prensa Latina)
Cuba's collaborators in Angola today reaffirmed the commitment
to continue with the idea of Fidel Castro (1926-2016) to make a
better world possible, on the 100th anniversary of the birth of
the historic leader of the Cuban Revolution.
In a ceremony attended ...by members of the diplomatic mission,
headed by the ambassador, Oscar León, the collaborator Yaime
Jouver read a letter addressed to the Cuban statesman, in
which she declared that those who work in this land
are continuators of his work.
On behalf of doctors, teachers, builders, miners, athletes, workers
of the anti-vector campaign and specialists from other branches,
he said they continue to carry in their hands the knowledge,
work, solidarity and will to serve that they learned from
him and the Revolution.
"Angola knows very well the meaning of Cuban solidarity. This
land keeps the memory of thousands of compatriots who
arrived yesterday with a rifle, a scalpel, a book, a tool
or a flag ---- and who were willing to give the best of
themselves ......for a cause that went far beyond
our borders," he said.
He added that today the mission is different, but the essence is
the same: to serve and defend human dignity, each one from
his or her position.
"You taught us that solidarity could not just be a nice word, but
a way of acting. You taught us that a revolutionary must be
wherever he is needed. You taught us: that the homeland
does not end at its borders when it comes to defending
the life and dignity of other peoples," he emphasized.
The collaborator pointed out that, as Fidel Castro's centennial
arrived on August 13, the Cubans who work here want to
remember him working.... and honour him ..by doing
his work.
"From Angola, where so many Cubans left a part of their lives and
where others continue to write new pages of solidarity, we raise
our voices to say: your work lives on, in every patient served,
in every child who learns, in every finished work, in every
athlete who exceeds his own limits, and in every
protected community."
Jouver stressed that it is also present in all those who have
the conviction that being an internationalist is one of the
noblest ways of being Cuban.
At the event, the ambassador, Oscar León; the director of the
company Antex Angola, Ernesto Gutiérrez, and the Minister
Counselor of the Embassy, Guillermo Hernández,
presented diplomas of recognition to
outstanding collaborators of the
companies Antex Angola, and
Imbondex Turística, and the
Meditex clinic.
Those present also enjoyed fragments of interviews with
personalities who knew Fidel Castro, and referred to his
personality, his character ...and his qualities.
______________________________________________
Thousands of participants in the
half marathon..... in Brazzaville
Brazzaville, August 14, 1:25pm
(Prensa Latina)
Thousands of people participated today in the Brazzaville
International Half Marathon, whose starting signal was
given by the president of Congo, Denis Sassou-
N'Guesso, on the Alfred Raoul Boulevard,
said the Presidency in X.
The important event is held as part of the festivities for the 66th
anniversary of Congo's independence, on August 15, and on
this occasion athletes from 38 countries participated.
Held since 2003, the Brazzaville International Half Marathon has
established itself as one of the most important sporting events
in the country, bringing together amateur runners, professional
athletes and international elites.. around an emblematic route
in the heart of Brazzaville.
According to the Central African Information Agency, more than 140
international athletes and 150 qualifiers representing the different
departments of Congo... were present in this edition.
The race has grown considerably over the years, as evidenced
by the fact that in 2023 it registered around 1,100 participants
and, last year, it exceeded 6,000.
_______________________________________
Ebola spreads to
another DRC
province
Kinshasa, August 14, 1:19
(Prensa Latina)
The health zone of Buta, in the province of Bas-Uélé in the
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), was incorporated
into those affected by the Ebola epidemic, the
Congolese Ministry of Health reported
today ....on its account in X.
The ministry noted that since the declaration of the outbreak
of the disease on May 15, six provinces have registered
cases of the disease: Haut-Uélé, Ituri, North Kivu,
Tshopo, the recently added Bas-Uélé, and
South Kivu, which has not had any
patients for more than 42 days.
Overall in the country, as of August 12, 4,665 cases of Ebola
were confirmed, of which 965 have recovered and 2,184
died, for a case fatality rate of 46.8 percent.
Currently, 634 patients are in isolation or hospitalized, while
the contact tracing rate has reached 84.2 percent.
"Surveillance remains active, with 1,531 alerts registered, of
which 1,388 have been verified. Prevention interventions
continue around sources of transmission, in particular
by establishing response rings and disinfecting
exposed areas," the ministry report added.
At the suggestion of the World Health Organization, the DRC
decided to use the Ervebo vaccine as a countermeasure
against the Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo
strain of the virus, for which --- there is no specific
treatment or vaccines so far.
This approach helps protect people now while generating the
rigorous evidence needed to guide a broader response, the
Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention said.
____________________________________________________
Morocco reinforces
border security
with Ceuta
Rabat, August 14, 12:55pm
(Prensa Latina)
Morocco today reinforced security in the border areas with the
Spanish enclave of Ceuta and maintains a strong security
device at the Bab Ceuta crossings, as well as the
beaches between Fnideq and Belyounech.
The authorities said that the objective is to deter possible
irregular movements after a campaign spread through
social networks that calls for a massive crossing on
August 15.
They pointed out that National Security forces, the Royal
Gendarmerie, the Auxiliary Forces and units of the
Royal Armed Forces are participating in
the operation.
This new increase in tensions comes after several waves
of crossing attempts in recent weeks, some of which
included ...dangerous swimming to the enclave.
Thousands of people are currently returning from Ceuta.
The number of people who crossed in a week
amounted to 80 thousand.
For its part, the Moroccan Ministry of the Interior reiterated
its warning about the human and legal risks involved in
this type of action, while specifying that the security
services work together with Spain.
_______________________________________
Burkina Faso and Burundi with
------ over a dozen agreements
Ouagadougou, August 14, 11:59am
(Prensa Latina)
Burkina Faso and Burundi today have more than a dozen
agreements in areas such as security, civil protection,
air services, risk prevention & disaster management,
among others.
The two countries held the first session of their Joint
Cooperation Commission, according to a statement
from the Burkinabe Ministry of Foreign Affairs,
which included agreements... on agriculture
and livestock, health, employment, youth,
sport, technical & vocational education,
higher education and research.
Agreements were also established for the reciprocal recognition
of driving licenses, abolishing visas for holders of diplomatic,
service and ordinary passports, the text added.
He added that a total of 14 agreements were established
and were signed by the foreign ministers of the
two countries.
Burkinabe Foreign Minister Karamoko Jean Marie Traoré
considered that these signatures constitute a starting
point and not a culmination.
For his part, Burundi's head of diplomacy, Edouard Bizimana,
called for accelerating implementation of the agreements,
promoting reciprocal investments and strengthening
partnerships between the private sectors of
both countries.
The two delegations... decided to establish sectoral
committees to follow up on the commitments made.
__________________________________________
DRC President calls for more debate
in parliament on referendum law
Kinshasa, August 14, 7:05am
(Prensa Latina)
The president of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Felix
Tshisekedi, asked to debate again the referendum law already
approved by both chambers and with the approval of the
Constitutional Court, the local press highlight today.
The regulation, which sets out the conditions for the organisation
of referendums in the DRC, will return to the National Assembly
(lower house) during its ordinary session in September 2026.
According to the publication 7sur7.cd, the new deliberation aims,
in particular, to incorporate interpretative clauses formulated by
the Constitutional Court in its judgment, with the purpose of
having a text that offers greater clarity and legal certainty.
Beyond this, the Econews portal recalled ....that more than 60 civil
society organizations sent a letter to the head of state requesting
that the legislation not be enacted --- due to the possible political
repercussions of the project in today's socio-political context.
The issue of the referendum --- remains a central point of tensions
between the government and part of the opposition --- in talks on
a possible national dialogue, said Actualité.CD, who referred to
how the opposition C64 coalition has turned the Constitution
and the referendum into ------- two of its red lines.
___________________________________________________
Viet Nam–Uganda Business Forum –
The Pearl of Africa took place
in Ha Noi on Wednesday.
by Thuy Dung
August 13, 9am
(VGP)
Prime Minister attends Viet Nam-South Africa
Business Forum in Johannesburg, Premier
entry point - for Vietnamese enterprises
into Africa
PM’s official visits help shape new vision
for cooperation with Middle East–Africa.
The event was jointly organized by the High Commission of
Uganda in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and the Viet Nam
Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI).
The event is part of the "The Pearl of Africa – Uganda Business
Forum & Expo Viet Nam Chapter", seeks to deepen Viet Nam-
Uganda bilateral relations --------- and position Uganda as the
premier entry point for Vietnamese enterprises into Africa.
In his opening remarks, VCCI Vice Chairman Nguyen Quang
Vinh emphasized that the strong participation of business
representatives from both countries at the forum - was a
clear testament to the growing interest of the business
communities in strengthening investment cooperation
between Viet Nam and Uganda.
The forum is not only a platform for sharing market information
but also an opportunity to promote business connections,
build cooperative and partnership relations, and open
up new opportunities for businesses from both
countries, he noted.
Noting that Viet Nam-Uganda economic cooperation remains
modest compared with its potential, Deputy Minister of
Foreign Affairs Le Anh Tuan... recommended that the
relevant authorities of the two countries --- closely
coordinate... to support businesses in accessing
market information, cooperation opportunities
...lists of priority products, and each other's
investment policies.... as well as their
business environments.
Uganda's Ambassador to Viet Nam Betty Bigombe said, the
forum is a platform to translate the longstanding friendship
between Uganda and Viet Nam into tangible trade
and investment.
"With Viet Nam's industrial expertise and Uganda's resources,
cheap labour and access to African markets, we have a
unique opportunity to forge partnerships that create
jobs and shared prosperity", she shared.
Uganda and Viet Nam established
diplomatic relations in 1973.
Bilateral trade between Uganda and Vietnam remains modest
yet it is expanding rapidly, signaling strong potential for
growth. In 2024, total trade stood at US$22.1 million,
and by 2025 it had grown more than fourfold to
approximately US$95.47 million.
On investment.. Viet Nam has pledged approximately US$40
million in Uganda, focused mainly on mining & construction.
A central feature ....will be targeted business-to-business and
government-to-business matchmaking, networking sessions,
and site visits. Policy dialogue will address regulatory
alignment, including negotiations on a bilateral
investment treaty as well as a double
taxation agreement.
The forum in Ha Noi featured panel discussions on doing business
in Uganda, leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area
(AfCFTA) for Asian enterprises, and agro-industrialization
and value addition.
Over 300 participants joined the event, including government
delegations from Uganda and Viet Nam, CEOs and investors
from leading Vietnamese conglomerates, members of the
Ugandan private sector and diaspora, SMEs, financial
institutions, and development partners.
__________________________________________
EU Renews Sanctions Against
Pan-Africanist Nathalie Yamb
for another Year
August 12, 6:29pm
(Pravda.En)
"I received a letter from the EU Council announcing its intention
to renew my sanctions for one year. Reason: I was appointed
special advisor to the President of Niger, with a diplomatic
passport, as well as my 2019 Sochi speech. This is not
a joke! What can I say?", she stated on X.
Nathalie Yamb has been banned from
entering the EU ......since June 2025.
Subscribe to @sputnik_africa
Sputnik Africa | X
_______________________________
Strong winter conditions...
affect South Africa parts
Pretoria, August 12, 12:40pm
(Prensa Latina)
In several regions of South Africa, snowfall, heavy rain and
winds caused the closure of schools, disruptions in the
electricity supply and put emergency services ----
on alert.
The authorities considered the current weather conditions
extreme and called on the population to avoid dangerous
means of heating, that could cause fires ...or poisoning.
According to reports from transport institutions, the storm
affects traffic ....and slows down movement on the roads.
They recommended extreme caution, limiting non-essential
travel and finding out about the state of the roads --- before
getting behind the wheel.
The spokesman for the provincial transport department in
KwaZulu-Natal, Ndabezinhle Sibiya, said the sky stayed
overcast from Cedara to Midway, it was raining
between Harrismith and Van Reenen, and
snow had begun to disappear in the
direction of Memel.
Lucky dabs!
__________________________________
Cause of Egypt's road
disaster determined
Cairo, August 12, 12:03
(Prensa Latina)
A tire blowout was the cause of the road disaster in the province
of Ismailia (northeast), the experts' investigation ruled today.
In the early hours of Tuesday, two light trucks carrying
workers collided head-on, killing 18 passengers and
injuring 30, according to updated reports from the
Health Ministry.
The magnitude of the catastrophe prompted Egyptian President
Abdel Fattah El Sisi to order a swift and thorough investigation
into the causes to determine the circumstances and
responsibilities of the accident.
The tragedy was caused by the explosion of the right rear tire
of one of the vehicles whose driver lost control and caused
the collision, according to the official report of the experts
of the National Prosecutor's Office in charge of the
investigation, based on the examination of the
scene of the collision and the testimonies
of only some of the survivors.. since 20
are in critical condition.
The fact brought to public attention that during the past year
in Egypt deaths from traffic accidents increased 10.8% to
5,829 and injuries a similar percentage to 84,553,
according to a recent report.... by the Central
Agency for Public Mobilization & Statistics.
_____________________________________________
UN alert on cholera spread
in six African countries
Dakar, August 12, 11:45am
(Prensa Latina)
Cholera.. is spreading through some six countries in Africa and
the greatest risk is for millions of children, the United Nations
Children's Fund (UNICEF) warned today.
It also requested $15 million - to strengthen the response to
active outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo,
the Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Chad, Cameroon and the
Central African Republic.
UNICEF considered that strengthening access to drinking water,
sanitation and hygiene, as well as epidemiological surveillance,
oral vaccination and community mobilization, is essential --- to
contain the spread.
Seasonal rainfall, floods, population displacements and cross-
border movements favour the spread of this waterborne
disease, especially among children.
Speaking to the press, UNICEF's regional director for West and
Central Africa, Gilles Fagninou, assured that this outbreak is
no longer limited by borders, while calling for urgent action
and greater regional solidarity.
The organization works with national and local authorities, the
World Health Organization, Africa CDC and other partners to
improve cross-border coordination along the main
transmission axes, he said.
UNICEF also pointed out that the requested funding will be
used to intensify --- over the next six months, emergency
interventions against cholera in West & Central Africa.
However, he specified that the emergency response must be
accompanied by sustainable investments in drinking water,
sanitation, hygiene and health systems ------- to prevent
recurrent outbreaks.
Data released by the United Nations indicated that in the Central
African Republic, children under 10 years of age account for 44
percent of the reported cases, while in Chad about two-thirds
of infections correspond to children under 15 years of age
and in Cameroon, the median age of patients is 10 years.
Nigeria is facing the largest outbreak on record in the region, with
over 50,000 cumulative cases and 338 deaths since January 1,
2026. In particular, a major outbreak was reported in Borno
State at the end of July.
The Democratic Republic of Congo recorded over 30,400 cases
and nearly 700 deaths, the highest death toll among the six
countries currently affected.
__________________________________
Chad Celebrates 66 Years of Freedom
With Grand Parade & Patriotic Spirit
August 11th, 6:14pm
(Pravda.EN)
Formerly a French colony, Chad was declared an independent
and sovereign country on August 11, 1960, by President
François Tombalbaye.
The capital, N'Djamena, hosted a grand military parade led by
Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Débrey Itno. The vibrant
festivities welcomed distinguished international guests,
including the President of Madagascar, Michael
Randrianirina --- and Guinea-Bissau's Horta
Inta-A Na Man.
In a poignant tribute to the nation's heroes, the Chadian president
laid a commemorative wreath.. honouring the martyrs who made
the ultimate sacrifice to defend Chad’s freedom & sovereignty.
Sputnik Africa | X
_____________________________________
Djidji Ayokwe - ready for
display in Côte d'Ivoire
Yamoussoukro, August 11, 12:49pm
(Prensa Latina)
The Museum of Civilizations in Abidjan, in Ivory Coast, will host for
its exhibition the Djidji Ayokwe, a conversation drum looted by
French colonialism in 1916, media outlets reported today.
Last Friday, citizens were able to come to see it and participate
in the ceremony that took it in a military parade through the
Yopougon district of Abidjan, before continuing to the
village of Adjame, where the imposing wooden
drum ...was created.
The black, white and red instrument is more than 3 metres long and
weighs 430 kilograms and was used by the Ebrie tribe to transmit
messages, warn of danger, call for war .....or summon villagers
to ceremonies.
The celebration - which coincided with the African country's
independence day, was attended by the Minister of Culture,
Françoise Remarck, traditional leaders and hundreds of
local residents.
Last March, the piece arrived back in Ivory Coast.... and was
part of a list of 148 objects requested from France for return.
______________________________________________________________
Egypt sends new
survival convoy
for Gazans
Cairo, August 11, 8:51am
(Prensa Latina)
With the first light of dawn today, the humanitarian aid caravan
sent by the Red Crescent to the hundreds of thousands of
people threatened with famine left Gaza from this capital.
The convoy, the third in less than a week, is carrying "thousands
of tons of packages of food, flour, medicines, medical supplies
and other essentials for survival, in particular fuel" destined
for the few medical posts left standing... by the genocidal
Israeli campaign of almost three years against the strip,
60 percent of which it occupies and refuses to evict.
Since the beginning of the campaign, Zad Al-Izza Egypt, through
the SRCS, has dispatched over a million tons of supplies to
Gaza with the support of 750,000 volunteers who are in
charge of the selection, handling and loading of the
supplies, according to the humanitarian agency,
the Muslim equivalent of the International
Red Cross.
At the same time, the Egyptian government announced today
the shipment of aid to southern Lebanon, where thousands
of people had to flee their homes due to a lethal offensive
by the Tel Aviv army that destroyed their homes and
cost the lives of thousands of unarmed civilians.
____________________________________________________
Ethiopia... expands high-speed mobile
network in collaboration with China
Addis Ababa, August 11, 5:25am
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopia's high-speed mobile network has - so far - reached
92% of the population.. in the service area assigned to the
Chinese technology & telecommunications company ZTE.
In joint work with the local state telecommunications company
Ethio Telecom, progress is being made in a broad program of
modernization and expansion of the network, aimed at
increasing connectivity and supporting the digital
transformation of the country.
The topic was the focus of talks between the Ethiopian company's
chief executive, Frehiwot Tamru, and a high-level delegation of
the Chinese company led by its executive vice president and
chief operating officer, Xie Junshi, as well as the review of
the Network Expansion and Modernization Agreement.
The latter was formalized during the Mobile World Congress 2026
held last March in Barcelona, Spain. Considered the world's
largest mobile technology and innovation event, its
discussions and presentations highlighted the
era of artificial intelligence, advanced
networking and new devices.
According to official sources, the modernization program
covers 879 sites within ZTE's service area.
To date, 462 Radio Access Network (RAN) sites have been renewed,
including the deployment of LTE layers at 180 sites, LTE upgrades
at 248 sites, & a complete software replacement at another 102.
The remaining components are in the implementation phase,
including 124 new sites, the reallocation of U2100 band
frequencies at 272 sites, and the installation of 115
sites with solutions for rural areas.
The modernized infrastructure is expected to provide a stronger
digital foundation for Ethiopia's growing economy and improve
connectivity for millions of people.
Tamru commended ZTE --- for its contribution to the successful
implementation of the modernization program, highlighting its
importance - in achieving the goals of the first year of Ethio
Telecom's strategy called "Next Horizon: Digital Strategy
and Beyond 2028."
It also requested the continued support of the Chinese company
as it moves through the next phase of modernization and
expansion of the network, which includes more
ambitious goals.
Another central topic of the talks ...was expanding access to
affordable smartphones. Both companies agreed to explore
innovative device financing solutions, that enable more
consumers to purchase those devices and take full
advantage of the expanding 4G network.
For his part, Xie praised Ethio Telecom's progress and
strategic direction, reaffirming his company's
commitment to maintaining collaboration
with the Ethiopian operator.
______________________________________________
Angolan Religious Leader...
Concerned About Growing
Intolerance
Luanda, August 10, 5:28pm
(Prensa Latina)
The president of the Episcopal Conference of Angola and São Tomé
(Ceast) and archbishop of Saurimo, Monsignor José Manuel
Imbamba, today expressed his concern about the signs
of growing intolerance and violence in the country.
During a meeting with the president of the National Assembly, Adão
de Almeida, both parties discussed the current Angolan social and
political context, the Parliament's website indicated.
Imbamba said the hearing served to analyze the latest developments
in the country and identify ways in which institutions can contribute
positively to the promotion of a culture of coexistence, pluralism,
social friendship and dialogue.
In this regard, the archbishop condemned the events that took place
over the weekend in the province of Uíge, where an activity of the
National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA)
party led to ''violent repression''.
"We cannot justify any type of violence, any type of intolerance... or
any situation that threatens peace or social coexistence," he said,
adding that after half a century of independence the country
needs to make a qualitative leap in citizen coexistence
and nation-building.
He considered that, one of the current challenges, is to strengthen
education for citizenship, since he valued that until now too much
energy has been concentrated on training militants, instead
of citizens aware of their rights, duties & responsibilities.
He also reflected that Parliament should be an example of dialogue,
tolerance and democratic coexistence, ''bringing together
representatives of different political forces'', the
source said.
[RR adds - is that the same UNITA that - backed by the West
- took up arms against any move by Angola towards
socialism, fighting a decades-long vicious war
won by Cuban troops fighting & dying side
by side with their brother Angolans?
Yes - it is! Monsignor José
Manuel Imbamba..... is
a very arch bishop.]
________________________________________
Nigeria moves towards..
a more stable economy
Abuja, August 10, 12:59pm
(Prensa Latina)
A report by the Nigerian Revenue Service (NRS) states today
that the national economy moved from a macroeconomic
crisis to a more stable and resilient footing.
He added that the economy is fully on the road to recovery and
attributed the progress to reforms pushed under President
Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to the published data, Nigeria's debt/Gross Domestic
Product ratio fell for the first time in more than 10 years, from
38 percent in 2023 to 32.3 percent in 2026.
External reserves for trade and emergencies multiplied, the NRS
said, while placing that capital at 51.9 billion dollars in July
2026, compared to 3.99 billion dollars in 2023.
In terms of tax collection, important progress was also shown,
which according to the report, was due to the increase in the
digitization of this process, four new tax reform laws, a
reform of the revenue service and an executive order
that closed the legal loopholes used to evade taxes.
Oil, which remains the central pillar of the Nigerian economy,
has also rebounded, with production rising from about 1.2 to
1.3 million barrels per day in 2023 to 1.73 million barrels per
day... in July 2026, a level equivalent to 104 percent of the
country's quota under the Organization of the Petroleum
Exporting Countries, he pointed out.
The NRS said - these numbers show an economy that has
overcome its toughest period and is on a stronger footing.
_____________________________________________________________
Ethiopia's Dialogue Conference
Deliberations Phase Concludes
Addis Ababa, August 10, 10:28am
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopia's National Dialogue Conference concludes its deliberation
phase today and tomorrow they will be presented to the defined
consultation groups, said the chief commissioner of the entity
responsible for the process, Mesfin Araya.
In the current stage, two groups of 250 participants compiled and
documented observations that will be analyzed by 500 strategic
consultation groups (10 members each), the latter in charge of
preparing the final agenda, Ayara said in statements to media.
He further explained that the differences of opinion, arguments,
and occasional emotional exchanges observed at the start of
the process are natural indicators of broad participation
and vitality in the consultation.
He noted that participants expressed a variety of views because
they saw the consultation as an opportunity to reflect on issues
of both immediate and long-term national importance.
However, he stressed that excessive emotional exchanges are not
acceptable under the internal rules of procedure of the Ethiopian
National Dialogue Commission, which is promoting the initiative.
"One of the principles of the consultation process is respect. The
second.... is to talk, listen and get to the centre," he said, urging
participants to uphold these principles throughout the process.
He stressed that the 4,000 delegates were not meeting to seek
solutions to individual issues raised by villages or local areas,
but to deliberate on national issues... with Ethiopia - in focus.
The advice generated through the consultation will be transmitted
to police institutions, legislators, legal interpreters, political
parties and civil society organizations, he revealed.
On the other hand, the chief commissioner dismissed rumours
that decisions would be made through majority voting or
under internal or external pressure.
He explained that the current debates and disagreements
among participants represent the "divergence" phase of
the consultation process and are therefore a normal
part of the deliberations. Eventually, he added,
they will move into a "convergence" phase,
during which, participants will reserve
individual positions and work toward
common ideas centred on Ethiopia.
He considered that the consultation process is progressing well
and, after a month of intensive work, it is expected to conclude
it within the next one to two weeks. The Commission will
present its proposals to the executive body, while the
implementation of the recommendations will be
monitored and made public, he announced.
________________________________________
Guinea Demands France Return
Skull of Anti-Colonial Hero
Bokar Biro: Media
August 6th, 9:05pm
(Pravda.EN)
Guinea has formally requested the remains of the last Almamy
of Fouta Djallon—who was beheaded in 1896—along with his
relatives, Culture Minister Moussa Moïse Sylla was quoted
as saying.
The remains are currently kept at the Musée de l'Homme in Paris,
where they have been held - as war trophies. They were located
after an earlier request .......for the repatriation of Samory
Touré's remains.
A 2023 French law on human remains allows for restitution in such
cases. A Guinean scientific committee is now preparing for the
return, which is expected to take place within 1 to 2 years.
Once repatriated, the remains will be buried
with dignity ....and accorded a state funeral.
Source: Telegram "sputnik_africa"
______________________________________
New airport terminal
inaugurated in Bahir
Dar, Ethiopia
Addis Ababa, August 6th, 12:36pm
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed today inaugurated the new
terminal of the Bahir Dar Dejazmach Belay Zeleke International
Airport, considered a milestone for one of the main gateways
to the country.
Ahmed stressed on his account on the social network X that
this project represents much more than a modern terminal.
"Following the challenges that Bahir Dar has faced in the recent
past, it is a testament to resilience, recovery and a continued
commitment to the future," he said.
He said the new facility -- the second largest after Addis Ababa's
Boles International Airport, significantly increases capacity and
improves the passenger experience, thanks to expanded
aircraft infrastructure, optimal access roads and
modern services designed to meet the
growing needs of the region.
Along with the urban transformation shaping the city - this new
terminal positions Bahir Dar, in the northern region of Amhara,
as a key node for both domestic and international flights, the
Ethiopian head of government said.
He called on the community to preserve peace in order to
reap the economic benefits offered by this dynamic city.
On the other hand, he explained that the new facility stands as
a great victory for the Ethiopian Airlines Group, the Amhara
region and the nation as a whole.
However, he stressed that maintaining this momentum depends
to a large extent on addressing two key pillars ------- through
continued efforts.
The first critical imperative, he listed, involves expanding
municipal revenues to maintain and take advantage of
these investments. Despite being home to top-notch
infrastructure, the city of Bahir Dar currently ranks
seventh among Ethiopian cities in revenue
generation, he revealed.
To maintain new green spaces, corridor developments and
public services operating seamlessly, local financial
capacity must grow to reflect the city's modern
stance, transforming Bahir Dar into an
economically self-sufficient hub for
visitors and investors alike,
he added.
As a final prerequisite, he mentioned preserving
regional peace, without which long-term
economic prosperity and vibrant
tourism .....cannot flourish.
__________________________________________
Benin recognises Ethiopia's
digital progress as a
model for Africa
Addis Ababa, August 6th, 2:40am
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopia's digital transformation is an exemplary model from which
other African countries can learn, said Benin's Minister of Digital
Transformation and Innovation, Mahuna Akplogan, who
continues an official visit here today.
Akplogan's remarks, leading a Beninese delegation, came after
touring the Modern Ethiopian Service for Organized Benefits
(Mesob) and national identification benefit centres.
She revealed that Porto Novo is keen to learn from the
Addis Ababa experience and adopt best practices
in the delivery of digital services.
"Ethiopia has recently shown that the country has been able to
be very effective in digital transformation and innovation of
the services offered to citizens," she acknowledged.
She highlighted that the Digital Strategy Ethiopia 2025 provided a
solid foundation for the sector's advancement, paving the way
for Digital Ethiopia 2030, which sets more ambitious targets.
She added that Benin aims to understand Ethiopia's approach to
digital transformation, while exploring areas of cooperation
between the two countries.
For his part, Mesob CEO Yonas Alemayehu stated that the visit
provided an opportunity ------ to share Ethiopia's experience in
building an integrated digital government services platform.
Alemayehu stressed that the one-stop shop evolved in one year
from a comprehensive service centre to a unified platform and
is preparing to launch an intelligent self-service system.
He reported that the Beninese delegation showed particular
interest in Mesob's institutional integration model, in
addition to identifying it as a possible avenue to
address similar challenges in their own
digital service systems.
Ethiopia's National Director of Identification, Yodahe
Zemichael, gave visitors an update --- on the
development of national technological
capacity for these services.
Zemichael recalled that the initiative aligns with the African
Union's vision of facilitating the movement of people
across the continent and supporting trade and
economic integration.
He added that they held discussions on possible cooperation
between Ethiopia and Benin on digital identity and other
technology-driven projects.
The Beninese delegation arrived in this capital last Tuesday
to complete a 5-day agenda aimed at deepening bilateral
collaboration in the sector and governance.
_____________________________________________
Egypt's categorical rejection
of the displacement of the
Palestinian people
Cairo, August 5th, 1pm
(Prensa Latina)
The "categorical rejection of the displacement of the Palestinian
people from Gaza and the West Bank under any pretexts" was
expressed by Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty
in statements circulated today to the press.
In this regard, he stressed that his country "completely rejects
any unilateral measures aimed at the annexation of the West
Bank of the Jordan and East Jerusalem".
In that context, he called for intensified international efforts to
halt the recent deterioration and to establish an independent
Palestinian State on the borders existing on 4 June 1967.
Last week, the Egyptian minister telephoned Palestinian Authority
President Mahmoud Abbas to condemn what he bluntly called the
Israeli genocide in the Gaza Strip.
Days ago, the Egyptian Red Crescent delivered another shipment
of food, medicine, medical supplies and fuel destined for the
hundreds of thousands of Gazans living in refugee camps
due to the destruction of their homes by almost three
years --- of Israeli bombardment of the Palestinian
coastal strip.
The latter have cost the lives of almost 74,000 civilians, more
than half of them women and children, a figure that grows
daily -- for what few hesitate to describe as genocide.
At the end of last week, 600 former officials and officers of the
Israeli intelligence services sent a letter to US President
Trump, in which they denounced the growing terrorism
of the inhabitants of the settlements created by the
Israeli occupiers in the West Bank.
_________________________________________________
Peace, security and preparations
for COP32 are focused on in the
Ethiopia-AU dialogue
Addis Ababa, August 5th, 11:03am
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos, spoke today
with the Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission,
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, on regional peace and security
and preparations for COP32 in 2027.
The meeting, held at the headquarters of the local Foreign Ministry,
focused on the evolving stability situation in the Horn of Africa
and the importance of strengthening cooperation between
the two sides on key continental and global priorities.
A major focus of the discussions was Ethiopia's preparations to
host the 32nd United Nations Climate Change Conference
(COP32) November 2027, an event that will attract
world leaders, policymakers, climate experts
and international partners.
Timothewos and Youssouf ---- emphasized the need for close
coordination between the Commission and Addis Ababa as
the host nation to ensure the successful organization of
the historic climate summit.
The dialogue ...underscored the growing bilateral partnership
to promote peace and security, while strengthening Africa's
collective climate agenda.
He also reaffirmed Ethiopia's position as a leading hub of
continental diplomacy and international engagement,
as it steps up preparations to host COP32.
_________________________________________________
Venezuela and Egypt reaffirm
strengthening friendship
and cooperation
Caracas, August 5th, 10:31am
(Prensa Latina)
The governments of Venezuela and Egypt today reaffirmed their
commitment to strengthen the historical ties of friendship and
cooperation between the two countries, plus ....integration
between the two regions.
The Venezuelan Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Trade,
Félix Plascencia, announced it on his Instagram account .....after
holding a "fruitful conversation" by telephone with his Egyptian
counterpart, Badr Abdelatty.
In his message, the senior Bolivarian diplomat -- expressed gratitude
to the foreign minister of the North African state for Egypt's "timely
solidarity in the face of the earthquakes of June 24 in Venezuela."
During the dialogue, they also discussed opportunities to
strengthen bilateral cooperation, especially in trade,
investment and energy matters.
They valued Egypt's experience in reconstruction processes.... after
large-scale natural disasters and "invited experts from that country
to participate in the recovery and reconstruction efforts" carried
out by the Venezuelan government.
_________________________________________________
Progress in Ethiopia-Oman
relations ...are highlighted
Addis Ababa, August 5th, 7:49am
(Prensa Latina)
Relations between Ethiopia and Oman are experiencing rapid
progress in various sectors, especially in the political and
economic spheres, said the kingdom's ambassador here,
Afkar Bin Nazem, quoted today by the Ethiopian
News Agency.
Speaking to the news outlet, Nazem said that the strong and long-
lasting ties between the two countries are gaining momentum
thanks to the commitment of their leaders.
He revealed that earlier this year, Addis Ababa and Muscat signed a
memorandum of understanding on political consultations and that
the first round of bilateral consultations was subsequently held.
This step, he stressed, expanded the scope of cooperation
and coordination between the two sides.
On the current expansion of the collaboration, he mentioned the
impact on the volume of bilateral trade: Oman ....imports coffee,
sesame and livestock, while exporting construction materials,
including iron and plastic products, to Ethiopia.
He considered that economic relations are well positioned
to continue growing, given the existing investment
opportunities and the mutual desire to expand
trade cooperation.
He also.. praised Ethiopia's rapid progress in various sectors
since assuming its diplomatic duties here about a year ago.
The diplomat said visitors from his country expressed
admiration --- for Addis Ababa's achievements in
development, and hopes this will encourage
more Omani tourists to visit.
He said that both nations are working to expand cooperation
in the fields of investment, tourism and people-to-people
exchanges, in addition to promoting official and
commercial visits.
Before concluding, he reaffirmed Oman's desire to continue
strengthening its relations with Ethiopia in a manner that
serves the common interests ...of both countries and
their peoples.
___________________________________________________
Angola prepares summit on conflict
prevention ------------ and resolution
Luanda, August 5th, 6:30am
(Prensa Latina)
Angola is making progress today in preparations for an
extraordinary summit of heads of state & government
of the African Union on the strengthening of conflict
prevention and resolution mechanisms.
The meeting, scheduled to take place in Luanda on 29 and 30
August, is to analyse the challenges of peace and security
on the continent and to consider proposals aimed at
strengthening existing mechanisms for the
prevention of confrontations and the
search for solutions.
The day before, delegations from Angola and the African Union met,
led by the director for Africa, the Middle East and Regional
Organizations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Jorge
Catarino Cardoso, and the secretary of the African
Union Commission, Dalitso Dikirani Bonongwe.
Both sides assessed the main technical and organisational aspects
for the meeting, including the draft work programme and the
measures needed to ensure that it takes place.
The summit completes a series of meetings that have been
held in Luanda this year, whose focus - has been on peace.
On July 9 and 10, the second International Women's Forum for
Peace and Democracy took place here; while on the 16th and
17th of the same month, the 3rd edition of the United Nations
Alliance of Civilizations Initiative was held, in which several
heads of State and Government participated..... both
physically and virtually.
_____________________________________________________
More than 48,000 displaced
in 15 days in DRC province
Kinshasa, August 5th, 6:02am
(Prensa Latina)
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian
Affairs (OCHA) reported that the fighting in the province of
South Kivu, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
caused the displacement of over 48,000 people.
The institution warned that the figure is the result of the last
15 days of clashes in the so-called highlands, made up of
the territories of Uvira, Fizi and Mwenga, where civilian
casualties and damage to critical infrastructure... are
also reported to date.
He added that insecurity has forced people to flee their homes,
disrupting their access to essential services, while road
closures, damage to infrastructure and disruptions to
telecommunications hinder humanitarian access,
medical evacuations and the delivery of aid.
In this regard, OCHA said that since January more than 80 people
injured by armed violence and explosive remnants of war have
not been able to access the treatment they need.
The agency insisted - that all parties to the conflict must "protect
civilians, facilitate safe and sustained humanitarian access, and
restore telecommunications.... which remain critical for civilian
protection, public health initiatives & humanitarian operations."
The situation of violence in this area generated the call
for a "ghost town" day this Wednesday - to protest the
phenomenon and as a wake-up call to the authorities.
The intention of the call not to leave home is to demand that
the Government urgently increase the supply of modern
equipment to the Armed Forces and the militias called
Wazalendo to guarantee the defense of the highlands
and plateaus of Uvira and Fizi.
According to the call, which was promoted by the New Congolese
Civil Society, the protest also aims to denounce "the silence and
hypocrisy of the international community" in the face of the
advance in Uvira of the Congo River Alliance-March 23
Movement (AFC/M23), supported by Rwanda,
despite the agreements signed.
"For the sake of our safety, we urge you to remain in your homes
this Wednesday, August 5, 2026 to express our discontent and
indignation at the deteriorating security situation in the
medium and high altitude regions of Uvira and Fizi,"
the statement said.