Rwanda sues Britain --- over
migration deal cancellation
Alexey Merkulov (Tunisia)
January 28th, 7:12pm
(Rossiyskaya Gazeta)
To share
Rwanda has filed a lawsuit with the Permanent Court of
Arbitration in The Hague -- against the UK over Prime
Minister Kier Starmer's unilateral cancellation of
the 2024 migration agreement.
This was announced by the government of the East African
country in a statement on the social media platform X
(formerly Twitter, blocked in Russia).
Under the terms of the agreement signed before Sturmer came
to power, London was obliged to pay Rwanda for accepting
illegal migrants who arrived in the UK. During the entire
duration of the scheme, only four people voluntarily
went to Rwanda.
The Rwandan government claims that the UK requested in 2024
to cancel two payments of £50 million ($69 million) scheduled
for April 2025 and April 2026, ahead of the official termination
of the agreement. Kigali was willing to agree on the
condition --- of terminating the agreement and
negotiating new financial terms. However,
the negotiations never materialized.
"Discussions between Rwanda and the UK did not take place,
and the amounts remain payable under the contract," the
Rwandan government said in a statement.
"The Rwanda scheme was a complete disaster, spending 700
million pounds of taxpayers' money to send just four
volunteers," Starmer's spokesperson told reporters
- according to Reuters. He added that London
"will strongly defend its position to protect
British taxpayers" and will continue to
"focus on effective ways to combat
illegal migration..... rather than
resorting to costly tricks."
As a reminder, relations between London and Kigali deteriorated
last year when the UK suspended some aid due to accusations
of Rwanda's support for the March 23 Movement (M23) in the
eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Kigali categorically denies any support for M23
and blames the DRC and Burundi forces for
the resumption of fighting.
_______________________________________________
DRC: Kinshasa and UN launch
humanitarian response plan
January 28th, 6:40pm
(africanews)
The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo - is
calling for $1.4 billion to provide for those in the country
who are struggling, as the fighting rages on between
the M23 rebels and the Congolese army.
Bruno Lemarchand, UN Humanitarian Coordinator in the DRC,
said, "in Congo, there are currently 5.3 million people
internally displaced within their own country,
mainly because of conflict. There are also
4.1 million people who have returned
recently, including three million in
2025 - due to the M23 crisis.''
''The challenges facing humanitarians - are numerous. There are
major financial challenges - due to a drastic and sudden drop in
funding. This has happened within just a few months, meaning
many organisations are no longer able to operate," he added.
The UN humanitarian co ordinator also pointed out how
difficult humanitarian work on the ground.... can be.
"There are also security challenges on the ground. The DRC
is a dangerous operating environment for humanitarians.
In 2025, 13 humanitarian workers lost their lives, and
there were around 700 security incidents affecting
aid workers. Another challenge is violations of
international humanitarian law and human
rights," said Lemarchand.
As well as the fighting in the country, the DRC is facing a
string of other issues as the minister of social affairs
and humanitarian action explained.
"The DRC has to take care --- not only of internally displaced
people and vulnerable populations inside the country, while
dealing with three major shocks -- conflict, climate hazards
and epidemics. The Congolese government must also
support its citizens who are now refugees in other
countries. We ourselves have gone into the field
and seen NGOs packing up and shutting down
.....because there are no longer enough
resources," said Ève Bazaiba.
Since 2021, the M23 group, which the UN accuses of being
backed by Rwanda, has fought with the Congolese army,
claiming some 7,000 lives... last year alone.
______________________________________________
Gold mine collapse in Southern
Sudan kills 13, injures 6
January 28th, 4:47pm
(africanews)
A partial collapse at a gold mine in Southern Sudan has killed
13 people and injured six, the state mining company said
on Wednesday.
The accident happened last Friday at five abandoned shafts
in the Umm Fakroun mine in South Kordofan, according to
the Sudanese Mineral Resources Company (SMRC).
Since fighting began in April 2023 between the army and the
paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, both sides have relied
heavily on the country’s gold industry, alongside
foreign support, to fund the war.
“The shafts were abandoned and officially closed, but
some miners entered them illegally,” the SMRC said.
Despite the war, Sudan’s gold production reached 70 tonnes in
2025, the highest in five years. However... much of the gold is
smuggled across borders into Chad, South Sudan, and Egypt
before reaching global markets like the UAE. Only 20 tonnes
were exported through official channels last year, said
Finance Minister Gibril Ibrahim.
Sudan, Africa’s third-largest country, is a leading gold producer,
but most mining is small-scale and artisanal --- like at Umm
Fakroun. These mines often lack proper safety measures
and use harmful chemicals, causing widespread
health problems.
Before the war pushed 25 million Sudanese into severe food
insecurity, artisanal gold mining employed over two million
people. The ongoing conflict has killed tens of thousands
and displaced around 11 million people.
[Rhondda Records adds - strange, isn't it
that a muslim country directly abuttingIsrael should have so many problems]
___________________________________________
Ethiopian police arrest 22 -- in
human trafficking crackdown
January 28th, 3:37pm
(africanews)
Ethiopian police have arrested 22 people accused of smuggling
nearly 2,000 migrants, in a network that reportedly caused at
least two deaths and earned millions for those involved.
Ethiopia is a key departure point for migrants
heading to the Gulf and Europe.
Authorities said the suspects ran “criminal gangs” and gave
migrants false promises of a better life in Europe after
crossing through Libya. Instead, migrants were held
in warehouses, forced to contact their families for
ransom, and effectively kept as hostages -------
until payment.
The gang is believed to have made over 2.16 billion birr
($13 million) from smuggling around 1,800 people,
resulting in at least two deaths and
15 disappearances.
In August, Ethiopia sentenced five traffickers to death,
though the country has not carried out an execution
since 2007, according to the World Coalition
Against the Death Penalty.
___________________________________
Burkina Faso votes to join Vienna Convention
as it continues path toward peaceful
nuclear power
January 28th, 2:29pm
(africanews)
Burkina Faso’s Transitional Assembly voted unanimously on
Tuesday to join the Vienna Convention on Civil Liability for
Nuclear Damage.
It’s a significant step towards realizing
Ouagadougou’s plans to build a
nuclear reactor.
The Convention sets a legal framework regulating
civil liability in the case of nuclear damage.
In June, the West African nation signed a deal with
Russia ---- to build a nuclear power plant.
It’s an opportunity for Burkina’s ruling junta to boost
energy capacity and improve energy security in
the country.
Russia’s state-owned nuclear company Rosatom
has signed around 20 nuclear energy
partnerships across Africa.
______________________________________________________
DRC prepares report on human
rights violations ---- by rebels
January 24th, 1:28pm
(Prensa Latina)
The Minister of Human Rights of the Democratic Republic
of Congo, Samuel Mbemba, announced today that the
Government will prepare a report on human rights
violations committed by the Congo River
Alliance-March 23 Movement
(AFC/M23).
After a meeting with the president of the National Human
Rights Commission (CNDH) and the president of the New
Congolese Civil Society ---- Mbemba said that the
preparation of the report is being carried out
one year after the occupation of the cities
of Goma, in the province of North Kivu,
and Bukavu in South Kivu.
The document will be prepared from 29 January to 7 February
2026, and aims to establish a rigorous, credible and
consolidated systematisation of the numerous
human rights violations perpetrated in these
cities, still under the control of AFC/M23..
with the support of Rwanda.
The minister also pointed out that the report will serve as
a tool for political advocacy, collective memory and a
basis for possible legal proceedings, Radio
Okapi reported.
_____________________________________________
Angola reaffirms commitment to
peace efforts in Central Africa
January 24th, 10:54am
(Prensa Latina)
Angolan President Joao Lourenco today ratified his country's
commitment to contribute effectively to peace and political
stability efforts in Central Africa, during a meeting of the
community of the area.
Speaking at the ninth extraordinary session of the conference of
heads of state and government of the Economic Community of
Central African States (ECCAS), held virtually, the president
assured that Angola will comply with the payment of
statutory contributions - on time.
The meeting was mainly dedicated to the election of
commissioners for the different areas of activity of
the regional organization, where Angolan Oluímo
Tavira da Silva was appointed as the new head
of the area of Common Market, Economic,
Monetary and Financial Affairs.
The Summit -- chaired by the current president of ECCAS, the
head of state of Equatorial Guinea, Teodoro Obiang Nguema
Mbasogo, also elected Chad as vice president of the CEEAC.
Also confirmed were the commissioners of Environment,
Natural Resources, Agriculture and Rural Development
(of the DRC; of Territorial Planning and Infrastructure
(of the Republic of the Congo) and Commissioner for
the Promotion of Gender and Human and Social
Development (of Cameroon).
Lourenco congratulated the new heads of the different areas
and remarked that they had to assume their functions as
soon as possible for the institution to become
fully operational.
__________________________________________
Warning of obstacles to caring for
all the victims of conflict in DRC
January 24th, 9:12am
(Prensa Latina)
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) today
warned about the security obstacles that hinder the work
of its teams in caring for the victims of the conflict in the
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
In particular, they referred to the escalation of armed violence
in South Kivu province, particularly in the territory of Fizi,
where clashes that began at the end of December 2025
have led to a drastic increase in the number of
gunshot wounds.
The ICRC deployed an emergency surgical team to support the
Fizi General Referral Hospital, which had to travel six days to
arrive from Uvira, when it could have made the journey by
boat - in three hours.
The head of the ICRC delegation in the DRC, François Moreillon,
said that such situations put people's lives at risk, delaying
crucial medical assistance for many of the wounded.
This also makes it difficult to transfer the wounded from
the combat zones to suitable health centres, as Red
Cross teams take several hours to arrive, which
often complicates the patients condition.
The ICRC reminded all parties to the conflict of their obligations
under international humanitarian law, which include facilitating
access to medical care for the wounded and sick, authorizing
their evacuation, including those on the opposing side,
ensuring access to health facilities and allowing the
passage of essential medical supplies.
__________________________________________
Xi Jinping congratulates Ugandan
leader .....after his re-election
January 24th, 5:02am
(Prensa Latina)
Chinese President Xi Jinping congratulated Ugandan President
Yoweri Museveni on his re-election, with a message that
highlighted the solid bilateral friendship, it was
reported today in the local press.
According to the official statement, in his letter the Asian leader
underlined the traditional ties between the two countries and
pointed out that, in recent years, Beijing and Kampala have
maintained firm mutual support on issues related to their
fundamental interests and key concerns.
The Chinese leader highlighted the fruitful results of practical
cooperation in multiple sectors, and effective coordination
on international and regional issues.
He said Museveni is an "old friend of the Chinese people"
because of his long-standing push to strengthen
bilateral relations.
Xi expressed his willingness to work with the Ugandan
president to bolster political trust ....and perpetuate
the historic friendship between the two nations.
He stressed the importance of fully implementing the
agreements reached at the Summit of the Forum on
China-Africa Cooperation held in Beijing.
The two countries established diplomatic relations in 1962
and elevated their ties to a comprehensive strategic
partnership in 2024, as part of a growing
South-South collaboration.
Uganda's Election Commission said on Saturday that
Museveni had won more than 70 percent of the vote
in the recent election, while his main rival, Bobi
Wine, was credited with 24 percent.
___________________________________________
Mali --- claims death in
combat of ''Islamists''
January 23rd, 1:02pm
(Prensa Latina)
The Malian military command today claimed responsibility
for the death in combat of an unknown number of
members of an Islamist group in the south
of the country.
The communication, which praises “the professionalism of
the military» and affirms that in their flight the insurgents
abandoned motorcycles, weapons, ammunition,
explosives to make handmade bombs, food
and solar panels.
The operation occurred in the town of Sikasso, on the border with
Burkina Faso, the scene last Sunday of an attack by Islamists
that caused 11 casualties to police officers operating
a checkpoint.
Along with Niger and Burkina Faso, Mali is part of the Alliance of
Sahel States, so it is assumed that the Malian raid is part of
military cooperation between the members of that
trilateral group.
_______________________________________________________
Exhibition ---- opens celebrations for
90 years of the Ethiopian Air Force
January 23rd, 9:49am
(Prensa Latina)
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed attended the opening ceremony of the
2026 Aviation Expo today, as part of the celebrations for the
90th anniversary of the Ethiopian Air Force.
Under the theme “Flying forward, building a shared future”, the
exhibition shows the country's commitment to promoting the
development of the aerospace sector and industry, the
Office of the Head of Government specified in its
social network account X.
Likewise, strengthen international partnerships and position
Ethiopia as a regional and continental centre for innovation,
skills development and sustainable aviation growth.
The event brings together government officials, industry
leaders, manufacturers, service providers and aviation
experts to explore cutting-edge technologies, improve
safety standards, expand infrastructure and improve
operational efficiency.
It includes about 20 high-end aviation technology companies
from around the world, as well as about 17 companies
working in the country.
Recently, Air Force First Air Division Commander Brigadier
General Brook Seifu, reported at a press conference the
program of national and international activities
scheduled for January 23 to 27 on the
occasion of the anniversary.
Seifu explained that the events held under the theme “The
Ethiopian Air Force: a symbol of freedom and unity” are
designed to strengthen public engagement, promote
aviation excellence and enhance cooperation in
Africa and beyond.
He mentioned the 10 kilometre race in the city of Bishoftu,
with the aim of deepening the connection between that
military command and the community, as well as the
Black Lion Air Show 2026 with aerial performances,
advanced fighter aircraft and the participation of
representatives from the United Arab Emirates,
Russia, the Czech Republic and Morocco.
Another event that stands out - is the Third Forum of the
African Air Forces of the Future, which will meet under
the theme “Cooperation and collaboration for a safe
and sustainable world”, he added.
The meeting, attended by 38 commanders and veterans,
is expected to address shared challenges such as
regional security treatments, humanitarian
crises and environmental sustainability.
Aviation technology was first introduced in Ethiopia on
August 12, 1928 and its Air Force was officially
established as a national institution on
November 28, 1935.
_______________________________________________
Sudanese government reaffirms control
over the country's capital
January 23rd, 9:18am
(Prensa Latina)
The Sovereign Transitional Council ( CST, recognized government)
today reaffirmed its control over this city, the country's capital,
with the holding of a meeting of the Council of Ministers,
according to an official report.
Several laws were approved at the meeting, says the communication
disseminated through official sources ...without going into details
about the nature of the legislation, adopted by decree in the
absence of a parliament.
The government operates with a high level of efficiency, said
Sudanese Information Minister Khalid Aleisir, signatory of
the text.
Since the outbreak of the conflict between the CST and the Rapid
Support Forces militia, the contenders have been fighting for
control of territories and it was not until the end of last
year that the Army was able to evict its rivals from
this capital ...and the twin city of Omdurman,
located on the east bank of the Nile River
as it passes through this capital.
The conflagration between the CST and the RSF caused the largest
refugee crisis in history, 14 million displaced, 24 thousand dead,
most civilians caught between two fires and the devastation
of this northeast African country.
The restart of government work, however, does not mean the end
of what has been called the forgotten war in Sudan, since the
RSF controls areas in the interior of the country.
________________________________________________
Ethiopian Foreign Minister highlighted
talks with his German counterpart
January 23rd, 7:21am
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos today highlighted
talks with his German counterpart, Johann Wadephul, to
strengthen bilateral and multilateral ties.
Timothewos, on his account on the social network X, revealed
that during the dialogue held the day before they stressed the
need to expand trade, investment and tourism, as a reflection
of the 120 years of diplomatic relationship.
A statement from the local Foreign Ministry reported that both
parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening ties
with a renewed focus on diplomacy, trade, investment
and regional peace and security. They also agreed
to deepen cooperation .....amid the evolution of
regional and global dynamics.
They expressed that recent discussions between Ethiopian Prime
Minister Abiy Ahmed and German Federal Chancellor Friedrich
Merz on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Johannesburg,
South Africa, in 2025 they injected new impetus into
relations between the two countries.
Wadephul reaffirmed his country's commitment to expanding
cooperation with Ethiopia, underscoring the country's
strategic role as host to the African Union and
its influence in the region.
He also highlighted the potential for local investment for German
companies, citing the Bishoftu International Airport project as
a key opportunity, and he expects the European nation's
private sector presence to grow further in light of the
macroeconomic reforms underway here.
He praised Addis Ababa's efforts to promote peace and stability
in the Horn of Africa, including its support for peacekeeping
operations in Somalia.
He considered the Ethiopian request - for access to the sea -
appropriate and reasonable, given the country's population
of over 130 million, while extending his congratulations on
its selection to host the 32nd United Nations Climate
Change Conference in 2027.
For his part, Timothewos -- called on Germany to strengthen its
support in technology transfer, industry and trade to continue
advancing political and development cooperation.
He recalled that both countries share a long-
standing diplomatic relationship that
spans more than 120 years.
Wadephul arrived in this capital the day before and met with
Ahmed and the president of the African Union Commission,
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf.
________________________________________________
South Africa's Kruger park suffers
'devastating' damage from floods
January 22nd, 9:17pm
(africanews)
South Africa's iconic Kruger National Park suffered major
damage to critical infrastructure in recent flooding, with
the cost of repairs estimated to run over 30 million
dollars, officials said on Thursday.
Torrential rains and floods last week forced the world-famous
safari destination, which is nearly the size of Wales, to halt
day visits and airlift guests and staff to safety...... as
swollen rivers swallowed large stretches of land.
While there had been no loss of life within the park, parts of
it were still underwater a week later and 15 camps
remained closed, SANParks CEO Hapiloe Sello
told reporters.
More than 500 members of staff were "stuck" at camps
within the reserve, waiting for the water to recede
so they could leave, she told reporters.
"In the Kruger National Park alone, the damage to critical
infrastructure is so widespread that SANParks' earliest
estimates are that the damage will be in excess of
half a billion rands ($30.6 million)" - environment
minister Willie Aucamp said at a media briefing.
SANParks is a public body that manages
South Africa's 21 national parks.
Staff and tourist accommodation has been destroyed
and there was "devastating" damage - to bridges,
roads and water and electrical infrastructure,
he said.
The loss of tourism revenue from the flagship park -
could put "the sustainability of the entire network
of parks at risk" because of the impact on
SANParks' operating budget.
Kruger's fauna -- including the famed Big Five grouping
of elephant, rhino, lion, leopard and buffalo -- had
largely escaped the flooding because animals
had sensed the danger .......and moved to
higher lying areas.
"We have not seen one single carcass
of any animal," Aucamp said.
The government has set up a fund - to support the site's
recovery, which is in a region increasingly vulnerable
to climate change and natural disasters, he said,
calling for local and international donations.
Dozens of people lost their lives and hundreds of
thousands were displaced in northeastern
South Africa and neighbouring
Mozambique in the flooding,
caused by weeks of
intense storms
and rains.
______________________________________________
Mali's authorities create a new ministerial-
level post to oversee the mining sector
January 22nd, 5:10pm
(africanews)
Mali has created a new ministerial-level post to oversee the
mining sector, tightening the government's direct grip on
the country's crucial gold industry, and has appointed
a former Barrick Mining executive to the job.
The legal texts establishing the role state that the minister
will have the power to supervise the implementation of
mining policy, monitor compliance with the mining
code, and review reports submitted by licence
holders – responsibilities previously held by
the Ministry of Mines.
According to a presidential decree dated 19 January, Hilaire
Bébien Diarra, an earth sciences specialist who left Barrick
to join the government last year while still leading talks for
the company over the Loulo-Gounkoto complex, has
been appointed to the post.
The Malian national was named special adviser to the presidency
during a bitter dispute over the country's largest industrial gold
mine, as Assimi Goïta's government demanded higher taxes
and a bigger state stake in mining projects.
His appointment was widely seen as a
strategic setback for the Canadian
company. Diarra ...was not
immediately available
for comment.
Mali is one of Africa's top gold producers, and several national
mining forums in recent years have called for stronger
structures to ensure security, compliance with
standards, and consideration of community
impacts in the sector.
A senior government official said the presidency has now
taken the lead in supervising the mining industry - with
major operating permits decided at presidential level,
as are contract negotiations, including the dispute
with Barrick – which are also handled from the
presidential palace. The Finance Ministry
now oversees tax matters, while the
Mines Ministry focuses
on regulation.
Diarra's promotion comes... as Mali tightens its control over the
mining sector, the country’s main source of revenue, through
a 2023 mining code that the government said in December
had allowed it to recover 761 billion CFA francs (about
$1.2 billion) in arrears.
But the tougher code has unsettled mining operators and fuelled
a two‑year standoff with Barrick, contributing to a 23% drop in
industrial gold output in 2025, according to provisional data
from the Mines Ministry.
__________________________________________________________
President in charge of Venezuela
welcomed the re-election of
her Ugandan peer
January 19th, 1:31pm
(Prensa Latina)
The president in charge of Venezuela, Delcy Rodríguez,
today welcomed the re-election of the president of
Uganda, Yoweri Museveni.
On her Telegram account, the president highlighted that
Museveni's “exemplary leadership” at the head of the
Non-Aligned Movement strengthened the voice of
the Global South.
“We reaffirm our South-South brotherhood and our
commitment to a multicentric and pluripolar
world order.. of peace, sovereignty and
justice among nations”, she noted.
''Long live the Venezuela-Uganda friendship!
He emphasized.
___________________________________________
Nigerian Army eliminates
more than 40 extremists
January 19th, 11:17am
(Prensa Latina)
The Nigerian Army reported today that it killed more than
40 members of the Boko Haram group in the northern
state of Borno through an air attack.
A statement from the Air Force specified that the bombings
against formations considered terrorists occurred on the
15th and 16th of this month in the communities of
Musarram and Azir, around Lake Chad.
The fighter jets hit militants from Boko Haram, a branch of
the Province group of the Islamic State of West Africa,
...after intelligence reports revealed that radical
elements were preparing to attack the city
of Baga and other nearby areas, military
agency spokesman Ehimen
Ejodame said.
According to Ejodame, after the military actions, the
possibilities of assaults by insurgents decreased,
allowing the situation in Borno to be stabilized,
which has been the epicentre of fighting
between the Army and extremist
entities for about 17 years.
On repeated occasions, the Nigerian government
declared the need to continue with uniformed
operations, in coordination with community
militias, to achieve peaceful coexistence
in areas surrounding Lake Chad, and
other areas.
Nigeria, in addition to suffering systematic assaults
by Boko Haram, faces attacks from criminal
groups or armed bandits who often
kidnap people to demand
ransom payments.
______________________________
National disaster declared in
South Africa due to floods
January 19th, 10:18am
(Prensa Latina)
The South African government declared a national disaster
situation after heavy rains and floods caused 30 deaths
and extensive material damage to infrastructure in
the north of the country, a state source
reported today.
The National Disaster Center announced in a statement
that the greatest impacts were recorded in the
northern provinces of Limpopo and
Mpumalanga ---- where the afore
mentioned deaths occurred
in the last few hours.
The torrential downpours in the north of this country, in
addition to causing disappearances & the destruction
of roads and bridges, caused the closure of Kruger
Park and the evacuation of hundreds of tourists
from that area, television media reported.
After visiting areas in Mpumalanga province, South Africa's
President Cyril Ramaphosa, guided the Ministry of Finance
and other organizations, to provide help and apply a “get
to work” strategy in the face of disasters that occurred
in various territories, published the digital newspaper
Eyewitness News.
The Head of State ......also guided the rescue teams to
continue their work to help victims in damaged areas.
According to reports, as a result of gales the previous year
in the South African province of the Eastern Cape, in the
south of the country, more than 100 civilians died and
thousands more were affected.
__________________________________________________
Egypt ratifies support for Palestinians
and the agreement on Gaza
January 17th, 2:08pm
(Prensa Latina)
Egypt today ratified its support for the new committee
of Palestinian technocrats in charge of temporarily
directing the Gaza Strip, as part of agreements
reached to end Israeli aggression against
the territory.
During a meeting here with committee chairman Ali Shaath
and other members of the team, the head of the Egyptian
General Intelligence Service, Hassan Rashad ------ they
emphasized Cairo's firm commitment to the success
of the organization and its support in fulfilling its
responsibilities.
According to a statement, Shaath expressed his gratitude
for this North African nation's support for Gazans,
especially his total rejection of the forced
displacement of the population and his
support for the Palestinian cause.
He explained that the group's priorities --- will be to improve
humanitarian and living conditions in the coastal enclave,
devastated after two years of Israeli aggression.
He also highlighted the importance of reopening all border
crossings in the territory, which remain closed by order of
Benjamin Netanyahu's government, a decision rejected
by the international community.
____________________________________________
Two candidates ---- for leadership of
the Angolan Women's Organization
January 17th, 1:59pm
(Prensa Latina)
Emília Carlota Dias and Graciette Sungua... will be the
two candidates who will compete from today for the
leadership of the Angolan Women's Organization
(OMA) during its eighth scheduled ordinary
congress from February 28 to March 1.
The ninth ordinary meeting of the WCO National Committee,
held during this day, held a vote and announced the names
of those who will run in the election for the position of
general secretary of the organization, female arm of
the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola
(MPLA) party.
The candidates were the ones who obtained the greatest
number of votes of the 188 delegates from 21 provinces
of the country who participated in the Committee
meeting, in an election that was held by
secret ballot.
Emília Carlota Dias led the vote with 115 votes,
while Graciette Sungua obtained 49.
__________________________________________
Nigeria takes bronze -- in
the African Football Cup
January 17th, 1:34pm
(Prensa Latina)
The Nigerian national team took bronze today in the
African Cup of Nations soccer tournament, by
beating their Egyptian counterpart 4-2 in
a penalty shootout at the Mohamed
V Stadium.
After several skirmishes - by both squads - throughout the
match, the teams remained undefeated, until Éric Chelle's
Super Eagles took the podium by missing only 1 penalty,
for two by the Pharaohs.
Akor Adams, Moses Simon, Alex Ibowi and Ademola
Lookman sent the ball into the back of the net
to take the epic victory.
Tomorrow, Sunday, the champions will be decided
--- between the teams from Morocco and Senegal.
_______________________________________
Some 100 thousand displaced in the DRC
due to violence by outside armed groups
January 17th, 1:17pm
(Prensa Latina)
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of
Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) warned today of
the displacement... of some 100 thousand
people ---- in the territory of Djugu, ituri
Province in the DRC, due to violence.
The fighting since the beginning of December between
Lendus militias and armed groups such as the Ituri
Patriotic Resistance Force (FRPI) and the Congo
Development Cooperative (Codeco), mainly in
the areas of Fataki, Damas, Mangala, Bambu
& Kilo, have caused panic in the population.
In its new report, OCHA noted that violence today
seriously affects the civilian population, with
around 39 deaths recorded since the
beginning of January, and at
least 40 injured.
“Many victims -- have difficulty accessing adequate medical
care -- due to the limited capacity of local health centres,
which are currently overwhelmed. In the Salama health
area, the local centre receives up to 100 patients a
day”, Actualité.CD reported --- quoting the report.
Ituri is also one of the provinces most affected by the
actions of the Allied Democratic Forces, a group
affiliated with the Islamic State that last year
murdered more than 200 people in various
villages in that province and North Kivu.
_____________________________________
Venezuela sends a message of solidarity
and friendship to the Congolese people
January 17th, 9:25am
(Prensa Latina)
The government of Venezuela today sent a message of
solidarity and friendship to the Congolese people on
the occasion of the anniversary of the murder of
Patrice Lumumba, independence and anti-
colonial leader who left a deep mark
throughout Africa.
On his Telegram account, Foreign Minister Yván Gil,
expressed that his fight was not in vain: the Congo
proclaimed its independence on July 1, 1960,
with Lumumba as Prime Minister of the
Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Gil recalled that the leader of the DRC was assassinated
on January 17, 1961 in a coordinated plan between the
US UK and Belgian governments, using accomplices
and a Belgian execution squad to carry it out.
“Lumumba, he noted, is remembered as a national hero
and an icon of anti-colonial and anti-imperialist
resistance around the world”.
______________________________________
Angola supported initiatives for
peace in the DRC at a meeting
in Togo
January 17th, 9:23am
(Prensa Latina)
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Angola, Téte António,
affirmed today that his country maintains its support
for dialogue initiatives for stability and peace in the
east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
During his speech ----- at the high-level meeting on the
Coherence and Consolidation of the Peace Process
in the DRC and the Great Lakes Region, held in
Lomé, Republic of Togo, the minister noted
that the response to the conflict.... is in
talks and not military confrontation.
He praised the initiative of the event ...and expressed
solidarity with the tireless efforts made by Togolese
President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, in his
capacity as the designated mediator of the
African Union.
However, he noted that Angola observes with concern
the worsening insecurity of local populations and the
humanitarian crisis in eastern Congolese, a situation
that calls into question the tireless and significant
efforts within the framework of the UN Security
Council .....and the US and Doha Processes.
The meeting, convened by Togolese, seeks to strengthen
the coherence, complementarity and synergy of actions
within the framework of the unified African process,
under the leadership of African Union Mediation.
In this sense, the purposes of the meeting are to
update the architecture of Mediation, integrate
the Independent Joint Secretariat as support
for facilitators; and adopt the Mediation
Roadmap for the next 12 months, as
well as the semi-annual work
plans of the facilitators.
________________________________________
Rebels in the DRC still present in Uvira
despite announcement of withdrawal
January 16th, 2:32pm
(Prensa Latina)
The rebels of the Congo River Alliance-March 23 Movement
(AFC/M23) are still present today in the city of Uvira, south
Kivu Province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
---- despite withdrawal announcements.
The coordinator of the AFC/M23, Corneille Nangaa, shared
a statement this Friday, in which he maintained that,
unilaterally and as a part of confidence-building
measures to contribute to the success of the
Doha peace process, the insurgents had
decided to withdraw their forces
from Uvira.
They asked that, to prevent the DRC Army and its allies
from taking advantage of the withdrawal - to regain
control - and harm the population sympathetic to
the rebels, the guarantors of the peace process
must establish appropriate measures for the
management of the city, including
its demilitarization.
They also called for the protection of the population
and infrastructure and monitoring of the ceasefire
through the placement of neutral forces.
The AFC/M23 also assured - that it will not allow any action
by armed groups hostile to the government of Burundi...
that remain active in the DRC territories in its control.
This is the second time that the insurgents have announce
their withdrawal from Uvira, as they had already
announced it on December 15.
However, local media report -- that the rebels are still visible
in the city, that they are moving ''normally'' and there is no
indication that they are going to leave, while the officials
placed by them in government departments continued
to occupy their positions.
___________________________
The 2026 Dakar Rally has
been virtually decided
with one day left
January 16th, 11:05am
(Prensa Latina)
With his victory today, the Qatari Nasser Al-Attiyah (Dalcia)
virtually sealed the current Dakar Rally and also reached
fifty stages won.... in the history of these car contests.
Al-Attiyah, king of the penultimate segment of the
spectacular competition with a time of 3:21.52
hours, was seconded on the day by the US'
Mitch Guthrie, from Ford (01.04 minutes
away) and the Australian Toby Price
(01:25 minutes away) on a Toyota.
The victory also means an historic merit in Al-Attiyah's
record ---- which equals the Frenchman Stéphane
Peteerhansel and the Finnish Ari Vatanen
---- with 50 stages won.
The result ensures the leadership in the general
classification, of the representative of Qatar,
who accumulates 48:01.51 hours in the
13 stages covered.
In second place in the ranking - is the Spanish Nani Roma,
15:02 minutes from the top, while the Swede M. Ekström
completes the leading trio, at 23.21 minutes, both
behind the wheel of Ford cars.
Tomorrow, the last section will be run, of 100 kms
------ the shortest of all on the Dakar Rally route.
In the motorcycle race, Ricky Brabec, from the US,
repeated his stage success -- and is more than 3
minutes ahead of Argentine Luciano Benavides
in the general classification, a difference that
makes him the main candidate for the title
with only one day of racing left.
____________________________________________
They prepare a meeting - on peace
in the DRC & Great Lakes Region
January 16th, 8:29am
(Prensa Latina)
The preparatory work session for the High Level Meeting on
the Coherence and Consolidation of the Peace Process in
the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and the
Great Lakes Region.... started today --- in Togo.
The president of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud
Ali Youssouf, inaugurated the meeting attended by the
Panel of Facilitators made up of former leaders, the
Togolese Foreign Minister, Robert Dussey, heads
of the East African and Southern African
Development communities, among
other partners.
Youssouf reaffirmed Africa's unwavering commitment
to ending the crisis in eastern DRC and praised the
leadership of head of state -- Faure Essozimna
Gnassingbé --- in accepting the mandate of
serving as a mediator of the continental
organization, in accordance with the
values of Pan-Africanism.
Despite multiple mediation initiatives, violence persists in
Goma, Bukavu and Uvira, causing thousands of deaths
and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of
people. In that sense he emphasized that African
-led efforts, must now take priority, giving solid
meaning to the principle of “African Solutions
---to African Problems”.
He stressed the need ---- for a proactive and inclusive
framework that encourages dialogue between the
Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda,
involves neighbouring countries, addresses
the root causes of the conflict ------ and
safeguards Congolese sovereignty.
Likewise, to respond to the legitimate security concerns
of Kigali and Uganda, and support Burundi in managing
the growing refugee burden.
The chairman of the African Union Commission thanked
the governments of the US and Qatar for their decisive
role in complementing the organization's efforts.
He concluded by highlighting that Africa must
demonstrate courage, unity and collective
responsibility in the search for peace.
____________________________________________
Angola for more private investment
in exportable production
January 15th, 2:02pm
(Prensa Latina)
The president of Angola, Joao Lourenco, stated that the
country will encourage private investors to produce
more exportable items, to diversify national
income sources, particularly ....in
foreign currency.
After the inauguration of the first phase of an electrolytic
aluminum factory, in Barra do Dande, province of Bengo,
with an initial investment of 250 million dollars and the
capacity to produce 120 thousand tons annually; The
president highlighted the importance they attach
to these projects.
“The country cannot grow solely with public investment.
We necessarily need private investment in practically
all areas”, he maintained and added that, in addition
to generating jobs for young people, they allow us
to expand the range of products and services,
as well as exports.
In statements to the press after unveiling the plaque, and
touring the factory, that ----- in its first phase, will
create over 1,200 jobs, and pressing the button
that - symbolically - marked the beginning of
production, the head of state... said that
there is no agreement with exporting
almost exclusively crude oil.
He stressed that this reality - will change very soon, when
the Lobito Refinery is operational, but added that a large
part of the raw materials extracted from the country
need to be transformed, and those items imported
---- could also have value added to them.
He stressed, however, that private investment should not
be conditioned ...on tax benefits. “Any private investor
knows that the rule is to pay taxes. Those approved
taxes, currently are for everyone. They are not for
some and for... others. They are for everyone ---
in all sectors”, he specified.
The president said that there are other incentives for
industries, such as the low price of energy, since the
country has a surplus of generation that it needs to
export, but, first of all, increase your consumption
linked to the production of goods and services.
In this regard, he mentioned that all the powers of the State
are obliged to work together with the aim of not giving up
stopping vandalism against public property in general, a
fact that has affected transmission lines, towers and
cables, and that can affect industrial performance.
The inaugurated factory is part of a project called Huatong
Aluminum Industrial Park, located in the Barra do Dande
Free Trade Zone, which will have five phases of
development, with a total investment
estimated at 1.6 billion dollars
over a period of eight
to 10 years.
It is a collaboration between the Chinese consortium
Hebei Huatong Wire & Cables Group Co. Ltd. and
Huatong Angola Industry, Ltd., which is
expected to generate approximately
12 thousand jobs upon completion.
The Angolan president highlighted that aluminum is
an essential product for the industrialization of any
country just as much as cement and steel. Angola
already has the capacity to produce the first two,
so the interest is in developing the third, which
will allow the national industry ------- to take a
great leap.
______________________________________________
African entity celebrates 40 years
in favour of regional cooperation
January 15th, 1:04pm
(Prensa Latina)
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD)
today highlighted 40 years of its creation --- with a
purpose .....anchored in regional cooperation
and with a vision of the future - to deepen
integration, peace and resilience.
“A shared future. For four decades, IGAD has anchored
regional cooperation in the Horn of Africa, turning
dialogue into coordinated action that responds
to shared challenges --- and collective
aspirations”, the African entity
highlighted on social media.
The text specified that, from the delivery of timely
weather and climate predictions that inform
farmers and governments, the work stays
firmly focused on practical solutions to
favour the life ----- of its populations.
Likewise, it mentioned strengthening health systems
and preparing for pandemics through the supply of
medical equipment, essential medicines
and ambulances.
It further stressed that, through regional frameworks,
shared institutions and collective programs, IGAD
strengthened early warning systems, improved
climate resilience, supported cross-border
peace and livelihoods --- and promoted
economic integration and mobility
between Member States.
Looking ahead, he announced that “the journey continues,
with a renewed determination ----- to deepen integration,
expand impact and offer real solutions for a peaceful
IGAD region, resilient and prosperous”.
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development was
created in 1996, to replace the Intergovernmental
Authority on Drought and Development (Igadd)
founded in 1986.
Recurrent severe droughts and other natural disasters
between 1974 and 1984 caused widespread famine,
ecological degradation and economic hardship in
the East African region and, despite the efforts
of each country and the support of the world
community, the magnitude of the problem
demanded a regional approach.
In 1983 and 1984 --- six countries in the Horn of Africa
(Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, Sudan & Uganda)
took steps through the United Nations to establish
an intergovernmental development and drought
control body in their region.
The Assembly of Heads of State and Government.. met in
Djibouti in January 1986 to sign the agreement officially
launched by the Djibouti-based Igadd. Eritrea - became
the 7th member after achieving independence in 1993.
________________________________________________
More complete..... skeleton of
Homo habilis found in Kenya
January 15th, 11:23am
(Prensa Latina)
The discovery in Kenya -- of the most complete skeleton
of Homo habilis today reconfigures the view on human
origins, it reveals unpublished details of its anatomy
and confirms its key role in the evolution of
the species.
The bones were discovered in 2012 during a campaign
led by prominent paleontologist Meave Leakey, an
expert in the field of African paleoanthropology,
reports National Geographic.
Its exceptional preservation makes it the most complete
postcranial (under the head) evidence of this extinct
species, including mandibular teeth, arms,
clavicles, forearms, scapula, pelvis,
and sacrum fragments, says
the publication.
Identified as KNM-ER 64061, the fossil was located in East
Turkana, a region in the north of the country, and dates
back more than two million years, and all the pieces
belong to the same individual.
The research team, whose members include Stony Brook
University member (US), Fred Grine, and Catalan Institute
of Paleontology specialist Miquel Crusafont, Ashley
Hammond, he concluded.. that Homo habilis
measured around a metre 60 centimetres,
weighed just over 30 kilograms, and
had muscular strength.
Analyzes published in the scientific journal The Anatomical
Record also revealed that teething, with thick enamel and
strong jaws, indicates a varied diet, including meat in
times of scarcity, the ability to walk upright and
climb with agility.
This finding reinforces the idea that Homo habilis was a
versatile hominid, located at a point of evolutionary
transition.. between australopithecus and Homo
erectus, becoming a key piece to understand
how the human species began to expand
its capabilities.
______________________________________________
Emergency health operations
centre inaugurated in Angola
January 15th, 10:49am
(Prensa Latina)
Angola today inaugurated the national and regional
Public Health Emergency Operations Centres
(Coesp), to strengthen health security and
the capacity to respond to this type
of emergency.
With the presence of the minister of the sector, Sílvia
Lutucuta, the network was officially operational,
which includes the main H.Q. in Luanda and
nerve centres in Cabinda, Lunda-Sul, Uíge,
Huíla and Huambo, which will allow
faster, more coordinated actions.
Lutucuta highlighted the event as a fundamental milestone
in strengthening epidemiological surveillance, prevention
and response to health emergencies and, he pointed
out - its implementation --------- responds to the
recommendations of International
Health Regulations.
This investment, he added, places Angola at a new level
of preparation to face outbreaks, epidemics and other
threats to public health; hence, the intention is to
expand the centres to all the provinces of the
country by 2027, with specialized training
for technicians --------- in epidemiology,
surveillance, logistics, and incident
management and rapid response.
The representative of the World Health Organization (WHO)
in the country, Indrajit Hazarika, appreciated that the
creation of this network demonstrates the firm
commitment of the Angolan Government to
immunization --- with more effective
interventions.... to save lives
and protect communities.
He ratified WHO's commitment to supporting national
institutions in these tasks --- to work towards the
health of the Angolan people.
The national director of Public Health, Helga Freitas,
highlighted that the Coesp will allow for greater
coordination between the various sectors and
integrated action -- from the central to the
municipal level for early risk diagnoses
-- plus a continuous analysis of the
epidemiological situation and
an effective coordination
of responses.
The National Immunization Strategy 2026-
2030 was also launched on the day.
______________________________________________
Voting on presidential elections
in Uganda ........is underway
January 15th, 10:42am
(Prensa Latina)
The Ugandan presidential elections take place today amid
complaints from the opposition about delays in polling
stations in this capital and other cities.
The favourite candidate to win... is incumbent President
Yoweri Museveni, to whom his supporters attribute the
prevailing political stability and economic growth.
In the opposite corner of Museveni, who is seeking a
seventh consecutive term, appears the popular pop
music singer Bobby Wine, who warned of popular
protests if suffrage fraud is proven.
Since the eve of the call in the country, the blocking
of the internet and the reinforcement of the police
presence and military patrols.... has been in
force --- as a precaution against disorder.
________________________________________________
Ethiopia and the EU addressed
bilateral and regional issues
January 15th, 10:14am
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos received
today the Deputy Secretary General for Political Affairs
of the European External Action Service, Olof Skoog,
to address bilateral and regional issues.
During the meeting, Timothewos emphasized: that the EU
and its Member States remain reliable partners of Addis
Ababa, describing the relationship as a crucial
partnership based on shared values and
aspirations, the local Foreign
Ministry reported.
He highlighted national efforts for regional integration,
aligned with the EU Global Gateway initiative, and
the African country's commitment to advancing
economic integration --- in the Horn of Africa.
Referring to the ongoing macro-economic reforms, the
head of Ethiopian diplomacy, welcomed companies
taking advantage of the favourable local business
climate ..and encouraged increased investment.
Skoog, for his part, reaffirmed the strategic partnership
between Ethiopia and the EU, highlighting the support
of the EU for the aforementioned economic reforms.
He congratulated Addis Ababa on its election as the venue
for the 32nd United Nations Climate Change Conference
in 2027 ---- and expressed the EU's willingness to
cooperate on current and future initiatives.
The debate covered other issues related to regional peace
and security, and both sides agreed to continue working
on areas of common interest.
___________________________________
Development of financial entities,
a government task in Ethiopia
January 15th, 9:52am
(Prensa Latina)
The Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed ---- affirmed
today - that development and institutional preparation
are fundamental responsibilities of the government,
and in that sense, they adopted new measures to
strengthen financial and economic entities.
Ahmed highlighted on his account on social network X
that the conference “Finance for Ethiopia”, held this
day with the main public financial institutions and
the financial sector.... provides an important
platform to reflect on the reform process
and future priorities.
I emphasize that the event is an opportunity to highlight
the progress made in fiscal management, plus the
modification.. of the monetary and financial
sector, income administration, and the
development of the capital market,
investment governance and
the ''transformation'' of
public companies.
Likewise, he continued, it emphasizes the fundamental
role of coordination and connectivity -- in maintaining
the momentum of reforms and advancing Ethiopia's
broader agenda of economic transformation.
The Office of the Ethiopian Head of Government reported
that the conference brought together the six major
institutions that shape the country's financial
and income systems -------- to present and
evaluate their performance to date.
According to the source, those involved revealed
their strategic priorities for the next five years.
Over the past five years ---- Ethiopia has undertaken far-
reaching macroeconomic reforms that have produced
tangible progress in expanding financial inclusion.
From the transition to a market-based exchange rate
regime to the implementation of local economic
modifications and digitalization of payment
systems, the period was characterized ---
by bold, commendable government
actions ....aimed at strengthening
itscompetitiveness - throughout
the financial sector.
______________________________
Venezuela --- thanks Namibia
for its message of solidarity
January 15th, 9:48am
(Prensa Latina)
The Foreign Minister of Venezuela, Yván Gil, today
expressed his most sincere gratitude -- on behalf
of his Government, for the message of solidarity
sent by the President of Namibia, Netumbo
Nandi-Ndaitwah.
On his Telegram account, the senior diplomat noted
that the message was transmitted by the Namibian
Prime Minister, Elija Ngurare -- who was “kind
enough to visit our embassy and sign the
book of condolences in memory of the
more than 100 people murdered in
the illegal bombing perpetrated
by the United States”.
Likewise, we deeply value Namibia's firm rejection of
the kidnapping of constitutional president Nicolás
Maduro and his wife, deputy Cilia Flores,
he noted.
Gil appreciated Ngurare's successful call for the unity of
our peoples in the defense of international law and the
Charter of the United Nations, stating: “they are in a
critical situation after the events of January 3”.
On that date, United States military forces bombed the
Venezuelan states of La Guaira, Miranda, Aragua and
Caracas, and kidnapped Maduro and Cilia, in whose
operation 32 Cubans in charge of protecting the
Bolivarian head of state ...fell fighting.
_______________________________________
