Africa Page

Mother Africa

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Angola: Demand for the end of blockade

of Cuba stands out in diplomatic area

Luanda, October 15th, 3:55pm

(Prensa Latina)

Angolan President João Lourenço today highlighted the support of

his country's position in demanding the end of the economic

blockade on Cuba, as part of the diplomatic action of

recent years.

During his State of the Nation address, the president said that the

issue has been present in the speeches made at the last United

Nations General Assemblies, where Angolan diplomacy.... also

defended multilateralism and a reform of the Security Council.

"We advocate for more inclusive reforms, for restorative justice for

Africans and Afro-descendants in the face of the crime of slavery,

and for solidarity.... with all oppressed peoples," said the head of

state, who also noted the defense of peace & international law.

He also referred to the search for diplomatic solutions to the conflicts

in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in Europe, in the

Middle East, in the Persian Gulf and in other parts of the planet.

"This stance contributed to the international recognition of Angola

as one of the main African mediators; a role that was reinforced

with my designation as Champion of the African Union for

Peace and Reconciliation," he said.

Addressing the National Assembly, Lourenço reviewed the actions

promoted to intensify political influence in Africa and in the world

in general, mainly thanks to its work in facilitating dialogue and

mediation in conflicts, as well as in the capacity to host large

events and receive high-level international authorities.

He commented on the visits of various heads of state or government,

the three-day visit of Pope Leo XIV to Angola and the presidency of

regional and continental organizations - such as the International

Conference on the Great Lakes Region and the African Union.

He dwelt on the work carried out as a mediator for the conflict in the

DRC, as part of which a ceasefire agreement was signed in July

2024, while after the departure from those functions, his role

remained relevant, hence they were invited to the signing

ceremony of the Washington Agreement between the

DRC and Rwanda, in December 2025.

"On that occasion, we warned about the need --- to materialize in

practice the agreements reached. As we pointed out at the time,

it is easy to sign an agreement; the most difficult thing –

although possible – is to implement it. After almost

10 months, the facts show that we were right,"

he said.

He mentioned the holding of summits such as Financing for

Infrastructure Development in Africa; the 7th from the

African Union-EU; the extraordinary meeting of the

African Union on the improvement of mechanisms

for the prevention, management and resolution

of conflicts in Africa, and that of the United

Nations Alliance of Civilizations.

He considered as another important event in the framework of

diplomacy the 2026 celebration of the second International

Women's Forum for Peace and Democracy - & the different

editions of the Pan-African Forum for the Culture of Peace

and Non-Violence, known as the Luanda Biennial.

___________________________________________________

Angolan President calls for

consensus.... to apply

municipal power

October 15th, 12:51pm

(Prensa Latina)

Angolan President João Lourenço today called for consensus

among the deputies of the National Assembly (parliament) to

move forward with the legislative package and implement

municipal power.

During his State of the Nation address, the president stressed

that the Executive has adopted measures for the

decentralization of state power, but stressed

---- that the country needs to create and

implement municipal power.

He recalled that the Government presented to Parliament a

legislative package composed of 13 bills, of which 10

were approved and three are pending examination;

while the deputies of the National Union for the

Total Independence of Angola (UNITA) made

a proposal --------- that was rejected.

He specified that the approval of these laws does not require

a two-thirds majority, but an absolute majority is sufficient,

something that the party in power: Popular Movement

for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA)... has.

However, he emphasized that "it is not highly recommended that

an issue of such delicacy be approved by a single party and

applied by the Executive," so he urged legislators and the

different parliamentary groups to make the difficult

effort of overcoming differences and bringing

positions closer, to conclude the issue.

He pointed out that the main source of discord and, therefore, of

stagnation, is regarding whether municipal elections should be

held gradually or simultaneously in all municipalities, which

he considered that for a country that is carrying out this

process for the first time --- is complex, from an

organizational point of view.

During his speech, the president referred to the progress made

in different sectors, such as the strengthening of the national

health system, in education, sports infrastructures and the

system of cultural institutions.

He also alluded to the positive economic results of recent years,

actions in the areas of defense, environment, diplomacy and

social development.

This is the last State of the Nation address made by João Lourenço,

who ends his presidency next year and according to the

Constitution, cannot run for a third term.

___________________________________________________

Youth and children: priorities in the

new stage of Angola's Executive

Luanda, October 15th, 10:16am

(Prensa Latina)

Angolan President João Lourenço today highlighted childhood

education, youth care and increasing the labour supply ---- as

priorities of the Executive, in his State of the Nation address.

The president - announced the holding of a national youth conference,

with the participation of young people from all regions of the country,

social sectors and organizations, with a view to listening to their

criteria and suggestions .....to promote their more effective

participation in the national development process.

Angola is a young country, the head of state stressed before the

National Assembly (parliament), and remarked that betting on

youth is investing in the present and future of the country.

Lourenço also emphasized --- education and child protection, and

announced that during the 5th session of the current legislature,

which opened on Thursday, a proposal to revise the Penal Code

will be presented --- to toughen the penalties established for

crimes against minors.

No child should be a victim of violence, abuse or neglect, said the

president, who summarized the work of the Executive not only in

the last year, but since they took office in 2022 and, in some

cases, referred to the progress made since 2017, when he

first held the presidency.

He acknowledged the persistence..... of inadequacies in some public

services, the difficulties that a part of the Angolan people are going

through and the challenges that remain, however, he affirmed that

the foundations for Angola's development are solid and that the

country is at a point of no return ------ to advance towards the

developed nation they yearn for.

He reaffirmed the Executive's commitment to good governance

and to work to consolidate a fairer State, closer to the citizens

and more efficient in public services.

On this path, he called for the sum of efforts to continue in the

construction of that country, with a future of greater dignity

and prosperity for all.

He summarized..... that Angola lives in peace,

reconciled and with many challenges ahead.

____________________________________________________

Elections confirmed in Somalia
for next year

Mogadishu, October 15th, 10:02 am

(Prensa Latina)

Somalia's Electoral Commission confirmed today in a statement

that parliamentary elections in this country would be held on

April 15, and presidential elections on May 15.

The announcement comes amid an increasingly fractured political

landscape and concerns about growing instability in the nation,

historically characterized by a system based on the leaders

of the various clans that make up the country's

demographic structures.

The current president.... Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, ended his

term earlier this year --- although his government declared a

transitional period in May, delaying the scheduled elections.

Somalia is also affected by Islamist groups such as Al Shabab,

which carries out continuous attacks against military

installations, and intends to establish a state.....

founded on Islam.

A country in the Horn of Africa, Somalia is also enduring

years of fragmentation and war between political clans,

with extreme outside ''influence'' by the West.

_________________________________________________________

Malnutrition on the rise
reported in Nigeria

Abuja, October 15th, 9:44am

(Prensa Latina)

Hospital admissions due to malnutrition increased by 20%

in Nigeria compared to last year, a report by the

International Committee of the Red Cross

announced today.

The agency also pointed out that pregnant and breastfeeding

women are the main victims of this scourge, and points to

the city of Mubi, in Adamawa state, as the region most

affected by the food crisis, where admissions to

health centres increased by almost 25%.

Political observers attribute this growth in malnutrition in

Nigeria to insecurity, climate, and the difficult economic

situation in the worst-affected regions.

The United Nations also predicts that in 2026, more than

34 million people in Nigeria will lack enough food for

their families, the highest figure in six years.

In addition, in central and northwestern Nigeria, armed gangs

operate to carry out mass assaults and kidnappings for

ransom, which has already caused damage to the

agricultural regions and the displacement of

peasant populations in the face of the

prevailing vandalism.

Also operating in northern regions of the country, Africa's most

populous, are several Islamist groups dedicated to re-affirming

pre-colonised Nigeria, now reduced to kidnapping and armed

attacks on Christian villages, schools and churches.

__________________________________________________________

Nigeria praised Ethiopia's border

surveillance technology

Addis Ababa, October 15th, 9:18am

(Prensa Latina)

A Nigerian military delegation praised Ethiopia's border

surveillance system developed by the Customs

Commission, calling it impressive during a

visit today to the Artificial Intelligence

(AI) Institute.

The delegation made up of members of the Nigerian Armed

Forces Command and General Staff College toured the

facility to learn about its work in the development of

AI technologies and their application to national

security, law and order and public services.

The institute's officials informed visitors about their vision

to become a leading centre for the development of the

sector in Africa.

Nigerian military officials noted that the system could make

a significant contribution to monitoring import and export

trade, strengthening border control and improving the

efficiency of customs operations.

They also learned about the Ethiopian centre's work on

smart cities and police stations, designed to support

crime prevention.

On the basis of these experiences, they underlined the

importance of African countries modernizing their

security and crime prevention systems

through technology.

The heads of the Institute of Artificial Intelligence reaffirmed

their commitment to work beyond Ethiopia's borders,

collaborating with other nations to help safeguard

the continent's digital sovereignty and promote

AI capabilities.

The visit also included discussions on possible areas of future

cooperation, reflecting the growing opportunities for Addis

Ababa and Abuja to exchange expertise and collaborate

on technology-based security solutions.

__________________________________________________________

Curfew extended in Mauritius

....amid violent protests

Port Louis, October 15th, 8:56am

(Prensa Latina)

The government of Mauritius extended the curfew over a third

of the island, after violent protests left more than 100 people

detained by the police, it was learned here today.

The measure was decided the day before, given the continuity

of the demonstrations and will be in force until tomorrow,

Friday, with effect in ten administrative regions.

The protests are against water shortages and the rising cost

of living but authorities reported looting, arson and damage

to public property, including police stations, where seven

officers were injured.

For his part, Prime Minister Navin Ramgoolam warned that no one

has the right to take justice into their own hands or take the law

into their own hands.

The government also blamed drug trafficking groups for the

protests, which are stirring up discontent, and the

Education Ministry also suspended classes on

Thursday and Friday in all kindergartens,

primary and secondary schools.

Mauritius is an island nation in the Indian Ocean, with great tourist

development .......due to its beaches and coral reefs, and since its

independence in 1968, it has maintained good economic growth

in various areas but its economy was affected by the pandemic

in 2019.

_______________________________________________________

Residents of Tigray, Ethiopia,

Reject Illegal Group and

Seek Peace

Addis Ababa, October 15th, 8:55am

(Prensa Latina)

Residents of Mekelle, capital of the Tigray region, today

condemned the illegal group TPLF for subjecting the

population to suffering in its quest for power and

pledged to participate ------ in establishing a

lasting peace.

On September 23, the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF)

occupied the airports of Mekelle, Axum and Shire, detained

federal personnel and consequently disrupted civilian

air services.

Official sources confirmed the destruction and looting of

infrastructure and public resources, the militarization of

schools and the forced participation of young people,

including children, in the Front's clashes with the

Ethiopian National Defence Forces.

Speaking to Fana Media Corporation, residents said the group's

coercive recruitment of young people, coupled with their

constant drive for conflict, caused severe hardship in

communities already grappling with hunger, fear

and anguish.

Afeworki Asgedom, one of the interviewees, confirmed that he

was forcibly recruited by the TPLF and sent into combat, in

addition to his escape as the opportunity that allowed him

to survive what he described as a destructive campaign.

He denounced the group as oppressive and repressive, stating

that it did not bring any benefit - to the people of Tigray region.

Asgedom stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation

with the federal government's efforts to restore peace in that

state and pledged to contribute to achieving that goal.

Another Mekelle resident, Birhan Gebrecherkos, recalled the

harsh conditions endured by communities, where people

suffered hunger and anxiety as the TPLF forcibly

recruited young people - for war. According to

him, this practice aggravated the difficulties

that the inhabitants were already facing.

Gebrecherkos stressed that since then, some calm has returned

to the capital and other areas of the Tigrayan region, adding

that residents are leaving behind a period marked by fear

and suffering.

He also expressed the community's willingness to collaborate

with the federal government to ensure lasting peace and

help repair the damage caused to the population.

Finally, Teklay Mesle, another resident, warned that the insatiable

pursuit of power by the illegal Tigary People's Liberation Front

had plunged communities into unnecessary suffering.

Mesle recalled how the group sent young people—including

children taken from their mothers—to war, with no regard

for the hardships that ordinary families had to endure.

He said the group's recent warmongering rhetoric intensified

public unease, though he added that Mekelle is now

beginning to enjoy a calmer atmosphere. He

celebrated the return of greater calm and

that the situation is stabilizing.

He considered that achieving comprehensive and lasting peace

requires more than government initiatives -- and urged the

regional community and all parties concerned... to

assume their respective responsibilities.

Residents' testimonies highlight the human cost of coercive

mobilization and conflict, while underlining the importance

of community participation .....and cooperation from all

parties to ensure lasting peace in the Tigray region.

_________________________________________________________

United Nations funding to benefit

the northern Ethiopian regions

Addis Ababa, October 14th, 12:48pm

(Prensa Latina)

The United Nations allocated $8.5 million from the Central

Emergency Response Fund (CERF) to support life-saving

humanitarian assistance and the protection of civilians

in Ethiopia's northern regions, it is announced today.

A statement from the United Nations (UN) said that the aid was

announced by the under-secretary-general for humanitarian

affairs & emergency relief coordinator of the organization,

Tom Fletcher.

This assistance will benefit more than 202,700 people in the

Tigray, Amhara, Afar and Benishangul-Gumuz regions, plus

other areas with acute humanitarian needs.

The funding will prioritize those affected by new or secondary

displacement, communities experiencing disruptions in

essential services, and places where a humanitarian

response capacity remains limited, the text said.

It will also help address urgent needs in multiple sectors,

including water, sanitation and hygiene, housing, health,

nutrition and protection, as well as response facilitators

and shared services.

"The additional resources will complement the significant

response efforts already underway by the government

and humanitarian partners," stated UN Resident, and

Humanitarian Coordinator in Ethiopia Ozonnia Ojielo.

This latest allocation brings CERF's total support to the African

country in 2026 to more than $22.5 million, including funding

for early action interventions in areas affected by El Niño

-induced dry conditions in the Afar and Amhara regions.

__________________________________

Ethiopia .....and the synergy

applied in its foreign policy

by Nara Romero Rams

Addis Ababa, October 14th, 12:25pm

(Prensa Latina)

In a new phase of foreign policy under the Medemer government

(synergy, in Amharic), which goes beyond maintaining relations

with other countries, Ethiopian Diplomacy Day is

commemorated today.

For the next five years, Addis Ababa is positioned to defend its

sovereignty, expand strategic options, promote development

interests ------- and participate more actively in shaping the

international environment in which its future will unfold.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed emphasized an active and influence-

projecting foreign policy, peaceful engagement with its

neighbouring countries, and the pursuit of reliable

maritime access through negotiation and

mutual benefit.

For his part, President Taye Atske-Selassie articulated the ambition

to take Ethiopia beyond international acceptance ---- and into

greater influence.

Selassie mentioned active, alternative, adaptive diplomacy and

agenda-setting as four interconnected principles to understand

how the Medemer State seeks to engage the world, preserve

its strategic autonomy and connect international relations

with its national transformation.

Their importance lies in how they work together: activity creates

opportunities, alternatives expand options, adaptation allows

for effective responses to change, and agenda-setting seeks

to influence the questions and outcomes that shape

international affairs.

For the Ethiopian government, an active diplomatic posture

begins with the recognition that geography and history

alone - do not guarantee influence.

A country must consistently engage, build relationships,

negotiate, participate in international institutions, and

make its interests understood in different political

and economic environments.

This means maintaining a broad presence in bilateral diplomacy,

regional cooperation, continental institutions, and global fora,

and linking those engagements to the needs of its growing

economy and its long-term national ambitions.

As on other occasions, Ethiopia reiterates - that the search for

maritime access illustrates the relationship between national

ambition and the diplomatic method. It considers this track

to be an important economic and strategic interest ----

particularly in view of the demands of international

trade and its development trajectory.

The Government stated that it will pursue this goal through

peaceful engagement, negotiation, reciprocity and

mutual benefit.

SYNERGY AND DIPLOMACY

This is where Medemer's concept becomes relevant to foreign policy.

Understood as synergy, it emphasizes the relationship between

different capabilities and the value of uniting them towards

common goals.

In diplomatic matters, he suggests that international engagement

should not be separated from internal transformation.

Economic productivity strengthens a country's bargaining position;

institutional capacity supports the implementation of agreements;

national cohesion provides a stronger basis for sustained policy;

and credible international relations can open up opportunities

for investment, technology, trade and cooperation.

For Ethiopia, diplomacy and development are mutually

reinforcing rather than separate activities.

However, it recognizes real constraints to be addressed, such as

regional tensions, competing geopolitical interests, economic

pressures, and the expectations of international partners.

Their maritime ambitions require negotiated outcomes; their

diversified partnerships must produce practical benefits;

and its aspiration to influence global debates must be

backed by sustained diplomatic capacity.

These are not peripheral considerations, they are fundamental

to determine whether the four principles for foreign policy for

the next five years ....can translate into lasting gains.

_____________________________________

Ethiopian and Chinese Airlines

Agree to Expand Connectivity

Addis Ababa, October 14th, 11:20am

(Prensa Latina)

Ethiopian Airlines and China Southern Airlines today signed a codeshare

agreement to deepen their cooperation in direct air services between

the two countries and expand connectivity in their respective

regional markets.

According to Ethiopia's flag carrier, this alliance will allow customers

to access the networks of both companies, facilitating seamless

connections to destinations in Africa and Beijing.

Through this agreement, the parties seek to strengthen ties between the

two countries and expand travel options for passengers who require

onward connections within the African and Chinese markets.

The collaboration marks a further step in cooperation between the two

airlines, better integrating their networks and expanding access to

the destinations served.

Today, Ethiopian Airlines flies to 145 domestic and international

destinations, as well as taking on cargo operations on five

continents with a modern fleet of over 150 aircraft.

As a vision strategy for 2040, the airline announced plans to expand

to 243 routes, increase its fleet to more than 350 aircraft and carry

60 million passengers annually.

To support growth, it ordered 117 new aircraft

that will be delivered ....over the next 7 years.

_________________________________________

Addis Ababa ------- showcases its urban

development at African mayors' forum

Addis Ababa, October 14th, 11:18am

(Prensa Latina)

Addis Ababa today shares its experience of urban transformation

with municipal leaders from all over Africa by hosting, for the

second time, a forum within the African Mayors

Leadership Initiative (Amali).

The mayor of this capital, Adanech Abiebie, revealed on her social

networks that the Mayors' Leadership Forum, scheduled for

October 12 to 14, provides an opportunity to exchange

experiences, learn from each other and explore

approaches to urban development.

Abiebie noted that the city's transformation is guided by Prime Minister

Abiy Ahmed's vision, through investments in transportation, housing,

technology-based public services - and the development of future

generations, all with the aim of improving the lives of residents.

He stressed that the city leverages its own financial and knowledge

capabilities to develop solutions that can offer lessons to cities

across Africa ...and beyond.

He also highlighted Addis Ababa's commitment to becoming a city

where children can grow up with access to care, education and

better opportunities for the future. The strengthening of early

childhood development, he indicated, became a central

axis of the local development agenda.

During the forum, the mayor joined Amali leaders and other participants

to inaugurate a newly designed childcare centre in the capital. The

operating facility was named after Lisa Diego, whose contribution

to the program was described by the mayor as --- invaluable.

At the event, the Mayor of Addis Ababa expressed her gratitude to Big

Win Philanthropy Founder, Chairperson Jemmy Cooper, Executive

Director Kesetebrihan Admasu, as well as the initiative's

advisors and program leaders, for their contributions.

The meeting brings together African mayors around shared experiences

of urban development, an occasion that Addis Ababa uses to present

its ongoing transformation and approaches to strengthen capacities

at the municipal level.

____________________________________________

Djibouti Parliament Strengthens

Relations with China and India

Djibouti, October 14th, 6:36am

(Prensa Latina)

The president of the National Assembly of Djibouti, Dileita Mohamed

Dileita, received the ambassadors of China, Hu Bin, and India, Shri

M. Keivom, to strengthen parliamentary cooperation, the

newspaper La Nation reported today.

Dileita received Hu in audience on the occasion of the end of

his diplomatic mission in the country. The meeting was an

opportunity to review the state of friendly, collaborative

relations between the two countries, as well as the

progress of their strategic partnership.

Discussions also focused on the prospects for strengthening

interparliamentary cooperation, an important lever for

deepening ties between Djibouti and Beijing.

Dileita expressed his gratitude to the Chinese diplomat for his

personal commitment and contribution to strengthening

bilateral ties during his tenure.

On the other hand, during Keivom's courtesy visit, the

strengthening of bilateral relations and the

revitalization of the India-Djibouti

Parliamentary Friendship

Group were discussed.

This initiative aims to promote exchanges between the two

legislative institutions, strengthen institutional dialogue

& give new impetus to interparliamentary cooperation.

The President of the National Assembly spoke highly of the

friendly relations between Djibouti and India, reaffirming

the institution's readiness to contribute to building a

lasting and mutually beneficial partnership.

Through these two hearings, the legislative body reaffirmed the role

of parliamentary diplomacy in consolidating relations of friendship

and cooperation with Djibouti's partners.

__________________________________________________________________

Rwanda -- opens the door to

Formula 1's return to Africa

October 13th, 1:47pm

(Prensa Latina)

Formula 1 will return to Africa with a Grand Prix in Rwanda, after

signing a 10-year agreement today that will end an absence of

more than three decades.

The announcement brings the African continent back to the horizon

of motorsport's top category, the last chapter of which was written

there in 1993, when Frenchman Alain Prost won at the South

African circuit of Kyalami.

Rwanda plans to build a runway in Bugesera, about 40 kilometres

south of Kigali, near the future international airport, in a project

that will combine sporting requirements with tourism

development and infrastructure objectives.

The track must meet the Grade 1 requirements of the International

Automobile Federation (FIA), an essential condition to host a

Formula 1 race, while the length of the circuit and the

number of corners remain undefined.

The decision also responds to an aspiration held by Britain's Lewis

Hamilton, seven-time world champion, who for years defended the

need to recover an African race and maintained contacts with

representatives of Rwanda and South Africa.... to promote

that possibility.

The Rwandan bet also has a commercial dimension, as Formula 1

estimates that there are over 100 million fans in Africa and

highlights --- that about 60% of its followers in important

markets in sub-Saharan Africa are under 35 years old.

_________________________________________________________

Angolan President to Inaugurate

Memorial to Victims of Conflict

Luanda, October 13th, 8:10am

(Prensa Latina)

President João Lourenço returned to Luanda today, where tomorrow

he will inaugurate the Memorial to the Victims of Political Conflicts

in Angola, located in the Nueva Marginal area, next to the

Dr. Antônio Agostinho Neto Memorial.

The president returned to the capital after participating in Rome

in the World Food Forum, organized by the Food and Agriculture

Organization of the United Nations (FAO), where he also

announced the candidacy of Angolan Josefa Sacko

for the position of its director general.

After the inauguration of the Memorial..... a project dedicated to

remembering all those who lost their lives from November 11,

1975 to April 4, 2002, Lourenço has on his agenda... the

participation in the opening of the 5th ordinary period

of sessions of the current legislature, this October

15, and the speech on the State of the Nation.

The Memorial is conceived as a solemn space for reflection, homage

and preservation of the nation's recent history, and is expected to

become a symbol of peace and reconciliation in the country.

_______________________________________________________________

Ethiopia ---- rejects pressure

over Nile & Red Sea access

October 5th, 11:55am

(rt.ru)

Egypt, Eritrea, Sudan, and Somalia have declared that Nile

decisions require consultation and consensus amid a

longstanding dispute with Ethiopia over its dam.

Ethiopia has warned that coercion and aggression will not

undermine its interests in the Red Sea and Nile, one day

after Egypt, Eritrea, Sudan & Somalia declared maritime

governance the exclusive responsibility of coastal

states and rejected unilateral measures harming

downstream water supplies.

In a statement on Monday, Ethiopia’s Foreign Ministry cited the East

African country’s historical and geographical connections to the

Red Sea and its position as the source of the Blue Nile, saying

these realities cannot be altered by coercion, or by any sort

of destabilization measures.

“Actions taken through proxies or acts of aggression will not change

the facts on the ground,” the ministry said, declaring Ethiopia ready

to defend its sovereignty and “core national interests.”

The statement.. did not name the four countries, whose leaders met

in New Alamein, Egypt on Sunday for talks on regional security and

cooperation. In a joint declaration after the summit, Egypt, Eritrea,

Sudan, and Somalia reaffirmed......... “the principle of freedom of

navigation” and called for cooperation on transboundary rivers,

including the Nile, through.... “prior notification, consultation

and consensus.”

Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan have long clashed over the Grand

Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, Africa’s largest hydroelectric

dam with a generating capacity of 5,150 megawatts,

which Ethiopia built on the Blue Nile and

inaugurated in September 2025.

Egypt and Sudan fear its operation could threaten their water

supplies and demand a binding agreement on ...filling and

operation. Ethiopia considers the dam essential for

electricity generation and development and

maintains --- that it will not harm its

downstream neighbours.

According to the Foreign Ministry’s statement, the Blue Nile

originates almost entirely in the Ethiopian highlands and

supplies around 85% of the Nile’s total flow.

Ethiopia became landlocked when its former province, Eritrea,

gained independence in 1993 after a decades-long liberation

war. Its pursuit of sea access, which Ethiopia considers

vital to its economy and security, has fueled tensions

with neighbouring countries. In January 2024, it

signed a deal with Somaliland to obtain coast

line access for a naval base in exchange for

recognition. Somalia condemned the

agreement as a violation of

its sovereignty.

A Turkish-mediated agreement in December 2024 eased tensions

and provided for negotiations on commercial sea access... under

Somali sovereignty. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud

told Al Jazeera over the weekend that his government has

“no objection... to Ethiopia gaining access to the sea

through Somalia.” He said the country could offer

Ethiopia access to up to three ports for trade.

Ethiopia’s push for sovereign access to Eritrea’s Assab Port has

also strained relations with Eritrea, which accuses the country

of plotting to take its ports by force. The two countries broke

diplomatic ties last week after Ethiopia accused the

Eritrean authorities of financing armed groups

seeking to overthrow the PM, Abiy Ahmed.

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_______________________________

South Africa sees sharp rise

in multiracial households

October 5th, 11:40am

(rt.ru)

The share has jumped from 1.3% in 2001 to 11.4%

in 2022, according to Statistics South Africa.

Multiracial households have become increasingly common in South

Africa over the past two decades, with more than one in ten now

comprising people from different racial groups, Statistics South

Africa reported.

The proportion has risen from just 1.3% in 2001 and 1.7% in 2011 to

11.4% in 2022, with most of the change taking place in the decade

between the last two censuses. Statistics South Africa defines a

multi-racial household as one in which two or more people from

different population groups live together as one household.

These include black African, white, coloured, Indian or

Asian, and other population groups.

The report says the shift reflects changes in how South Africans live

and form families, with intermarriage, migration, urbanisation and

greater social mobility ....contributing to increasingly integrated

households. However, the picture differs considerably across

the country.

The Western Cape ---- has the highest proportion of multi-
racial households, where they account for almost 1 in 5
households. Gauteng follows, while Limpopo has the
lowest proportion.

This partly reflects the racial make-up of individual

provinces, with multi-racial households more

common in areas ------ with more diverse

populations, according to the report.

Johannesburg and Cape Town stand out among South Africa’s

metros, although multi-racial households are increasingly

found outside the country’s major cities. More than four

in five multi-racial households were located in urban

areas in each of the three censuses studied.

However, the proportion living outside urban areas has also grown,

from about 15% in 2001 to more than 18% in 2022. Indeed, about

two in five multi-racial households are now found in non-

metropolitan municipalities.

The make-up of these households - has changed substantially too.

In 2001, large households were common, with almost three in 10

multi-racial households containing six or more people. By 2022,

they accounted for fewer than one in 25. At the same time,

three-person households have become dominant. Fewer

than one in five fell into this category in 2001,

compared with almost half by 2022,

according to the Census figures.

”In terms of living arrangements and culture in general,

South African society continues to adopt new ways of

living, including mixed-race household formation, and

these emerging social interaction patterns have an

impact on household size,” says the agency.

Two-person households have also become

considerably more common, while the

proportion containing five people

has fallen sharply.

”The rise of multi-racial households in South Africa is a direct

reflection of democratic freedom in several aspects of life,”

says Statistics South Africa. According to the report, the

increase reflects greater cultural integration through

urbanisation, migration and education... as well as

the freedom to marry, cohabit and form families

across racial lines.

First published by IOL

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___________________________________________

Abiy Ahmed re-elected as

Ethiopia's prime minister

Addis Ababa, October 5th, 9:44am

(Prensa Latina)

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed was re-elected today in his

post for the next five years, during the first ordinary session of

the first year of the seventh legislature.

Ahmed Shide and Muferihat Kamil were elected as Speakers of

the House of People's Representatives (Parliament) and the

Federation House (Upper House), respectively.

Shide... served as finance minister, while

Kamil was the head of Labour and Skills.

The formation of a new government and the opening of Parliament

comes after elections in which over 54 million citizens registered

to vote - 42 political parties and 10,438 candidates participated.

The ruling Prosperity Party won 438 seats in parliament, clearing

the constitutional path to form and lead the federal executive

for the next legislative period.

__________________________________________

Ebola outbreak has

passed its peak –

DR Congo

October 5th, 9:30am

(rt.ru)

Infections are now concentrated in fewer areas as contact

tracing improves, the country’s health ministry has said.

The current Ebola outbreak has passed its peak, the DR Congo

Health Ministry said on Friday, citing a decline in new cases

in the country and a shrinking number of areas reporting

active transmission.

According to the statement, transmission is now concentrated in

individual health zones rather than across entire provinces. Of

the 63 health zones under surveillance, 12 have recorded no

new cases for at least 42 days, while another eight have

gone between 22 and 42 days, without reporting an

infection. The share of identified contacts being

monitored has nearly tripled, climbing from

around 28% in May .........to 82% by

September 28.

“The peak is really behind us,” Congolese Health Minister Roger

Samuel Kamba said at a press briefing in Kinshasa -- according

to the Congolese Press Agency. The trend allows health teams

to concentrate their response on areas where infections are

still being detected, Kamba added.

Despite the improving trend.... as cited by the minister, the virus

continues to spread in several parts of the country. The latest

Health Ministry data recorded 66 new confirmed cases, and

38 deaths, bringing the toll as of October 2nd........ to 8,442

infections and 4,080 deaths. The case fatality rate stood

at 48.3%.

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC)

warned on Thursday against interpreting a recent decline in

reported cases as evidence that the outbreak is easing,

stressing that insecurity has disrupted surveillance in

some affected areas. At the time of its briefing, 45 of

the 63 affected health zones --- were still reporting

active transmission.

“Falling in this curve doesn’t mean that the outbreak is totally under

control,” Africa CDC’s Wessam Mankoula said. “We cannot say, at

this stage, the outbreak is under control.”

DR Congo continues to grapple with instability as the M23

rebel group maintains control over parts of the country,

fueling clashes and humanitarian emergencies.

The World Health Organization (WHO)... has raised similar
concerns, warning that the insecurity in eastern Congo
has hampered surveillance, case detection and
contact tracing.

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________________________________

Ethiopia defends its interests in

Nile River and Red Sea debate

Addis Ababa, October 5th, 8:06am

(Prensa Latina)

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed today that any discussion

on the use and management of the Nile River and the issue of the

Red Sea must take into account the geographical reality and the

legitimate national interests of Ethiopia.

In a press release, the ministry noted that Addis Ababa is the source

of the Abay River – commonly known as the Blue Nile – whose flow

comes almost entirely from the Ethiopian highlands and

contributes about 85% of the total volume of water.

He also stated that the country maintains a geographical and

historical link with the Red Sea, located just 30 miles from

its coast.

"Therefore, any serious discussion on regional maritime affairs and

security architecture must take into account Ethiopia's legitimate

interests and its enduring link with the Red Sea," it stressed.

The Foreign Ministry specified that these facts cannot be

altered by political rhetoric, coercion or destabilization.

"Proxy actions or acts of aggression will not change the reality on

the ground or undermine Ethiopia's legitimate regional role and

responsibilities," he said.

Reaffirming the nation's commitment to peaceful understanding,

mutual respect and regional cooperation, the Ministry stated

that Ethiopia is ready to defend its sovereignty, territorial

integrity and core interests.

Finally, he urged all regional actors to address common challenges

through constructive dialogue and good-neighbourliness, rather

than by confrontation and zero-sum approaches.

_____________________________________________

Ethiopian troops now retake

regional capital from rebels

October 5th, 7:45am

(rt.ru)

The advance comes amid fighting against an alliance seeking

to overthrow Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government.

Ethiopian government forces and allied fighters have retaken the

capital of the northern Tigray region, which rebels seized less

than two weeks ago.

Fighters from the pro-government Tigray Peace Forces (TPF)

announced in a post on Facebook on Sunday that they had

“completely taken control” of Mekelle.

Footage shared by the TPF and dated October 3 shows armed

men in military uniforms and vans moving through the streets,

with horns sounding as people cheer. The forces entered the

city centre on Saturday afternoon, followed by federal

troops, Reuters reported, citing a source close

to the militia.

The Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), which governs the

region, acknowledged its retreat ---- in a statement posted on

Facebook. It said the regional administration “has decided

to temporarily leave Mekelle and operate from another

location, while our forces continue carrying out

their military operations.”

Residents reported looting of government offices during the

withdrawal, while internet and cellphone disruptions have

hampered any verification of developments, AP reported.

Federal troops also recovered Mekelle’s airport, which TPLF

fighters seized on September 23, prompting Ethiopian

Airlines to suspend flights to the city ....and two

other Tigrayan destinations.

The East African country has struggled to secure lasting stability

since an African Union-mediated peace agreement signed in

November 2022 ended the 2-year Tigray war, which killed

hundreds of thousands.

The conflict grew out of a power struggle between the federal

government and the TPLF, whose decades of dominance in

national politics ended when Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed

took office in 2018. Disputes over disarmament,

territory, and the return of displaced people,

remain unresolved.

The latest escalation followed the formation of an opposition

alliance between the TPLF and six other armed groups,

including former battlefield enemies, seeking to

oust Abiy.

On September 24, the Ethiopian National Defense Force said

it had killed 272 TPLF fighters and wounded another 260 in

a counteroffensive. Tigray’s regional authorities said their

troops entered a “defensive battle” after federal forces

attacked them with aircraft, drones, and artillery.

The fighting has also deepened a regional diplomatic crisis, with

Ethiopia accusing Egypt, Eritrea, and Sudan of supporting the

rebels. All three deny the allegations.

Ethiopia announced the closure of its embassy in Eritrea - and

expelled ten Eritrean diplomats on Thursday, citing Asmara’s

“direct and indirect acts of hostility.” Eritrea responded by

severing ties, claiming Addis Ababa was plotting to take

its ports and backing Eritrean opposition groups to

pursue regime change. Addis Ababa also ordered

an Egyptian diplomat to leave within 48 hours.

Cairo retaliated ------ by giving an Ethiopian

Embassy counselor the same deadline.

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____________________________________

Humanitarian operations are halted

--- by violence in DRC, OCHA warns

Kinshasa, October 5th, 00:51am

(Prensa Latina)

The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs

(OCHA) warned about the suspension of operations

of some organizations in the Democratic Republic

of Congo (DRC) due to the escalation of violence

affecting Ituri today.

According to a report by this United Nations agency, in the eastern

Congolese province, particularly in the territory of Djugu, the most

recent clashes caused the death of at least 16 civilians and the

displacement of over 13,000 people, and makes aid ''difficult''.

"At least five humanitarian organizations have suspended or

reduced their operations, limiting the population's access to

food, health care, nutrition services, cash assistance, and

water and sanitation support," OCHA warned. He added

that some 10,000 people or more are at risk of losing

access to urgent assistance, while another 50,000

displaced people at the Rhoe site are at risk of

not receiving the aid they need.

According to OCHA, the escalation of violence also hampers

the Ebola response, by disrupting community engagement

and surveillance activities, as well as delaying the

transport of samples to laboratories.

The agency reiterated the need --- for safe, sustained and

unhindered humanitarian access, as well as to maintain

international support for the Ebola response and

life-saving humanitarian operations.

_________________________________________

Angolan President calls:

--- for more commitment

to African development

Luanda, October 3rd, 2:18pm

(Prensa Latina)

Angolan President João Lourenço today called for a greater

commitment to the development of the African continent,

translated into political, technical and financial support,

and concrete actions for transformation.

Delivering the closing speech at the summit of the founding
members of the African Union Development Agency (AUDA

-NEPAD), held in the Egyptian city of El Alamein, the

president stressed the strategic role of this

structure and the importance of turning

decisions ---- into reality.

Lourenço remarked that one of the steps that follow this meeting

is the maximum adaptation of the projects to be implemented to

the reality of the member states.

"The effectiveness of continental action - is ultimately measured by

its ability to deliver results on the ground. It is there, together with

our populations, where continental policies and strategies take

concrete expression, and where citizens -- must perceive the

benefits of the decisions we make at the continental level,"

he said.

He insisted that the commitments resulting from the summit

be effectively executed, as no declaration... replaces the

value of implementation.

The Angolan president, who addressed the audience as president of

the Guidance Committee of the Heads of State and Government of

AUDA-NEPAD, highlighted the quality of the day's debates, which

allowed the 25-year history of the organization to be reviewed.

In the same way, he pointed out, they allowed us to look to

the future with a sense of responsibility and with a clear

awareness of the challenges ahead.

"Our deliberations unequivocally concluded that the next chapter of

AUDA-NEPAD must be characterized by stronger African ownership,

greater institutional effectiveness and a culture of results-oriented

implementation," he said.

It maintained that Member States should ensure ---- that

the structure had the necessary resources, technical

capacities and institutional conditions - to fully fulfil

the mandate entrusted to it.

At another point in his participation in the event, the Angolan

president commented on the agency's progress, such as the

extension of its portfolio of programmes, the strengthening

of support to member states, plus, the mobilisation of

investments, and the consolidation of strategic

partnerships in essential areas ---- such as

infrastructure, food systems and health.

___________________________________________

Angola launches campaign to

advance voter registration

Luanda, October 3rd, 1:19pm

(Prensa Latina)

The Government of Angola today began a campaign to advance the

registration of citizens aged 18 and over in the electoral registry,

with a view to the 2027 elections.

Called "Angola calls you", the action, which seeks to raise

awareness and social mobilization in pursuit of the

updating of personal data, will be carried out

every Saturday and Sunday until the end

ofDecember, throughout Angola.

Organized by the Ministries of Telecommunications, Information

Technologies and Social Communication; of Territorial

Administration, and Justice and Human Rights, the

campaign focuses on the updating of personal

data, proof of life and the processing or

collection of the Identity Document,

mandatory for the elections.

Angola began the electoral registration and proof of life on June 15,

and as of September 23, according to the national director of the

Electoral Registry Pascoal Santana, two million 500 thousand

citizens had completed the process, out of a figure of more

than 16 million ---- that is expected to be reached.

The closure of this action, which is carried out in the Single

Windows for Public Service, as well as in embassies and

consulates outside the country.... is set for March 31,

2027, so the Government decided to move forward

to increase the rate of registration.

In Luanda, the action began this Saturday

in the municipalities of Cazenga, Viana,

Cacuaco and Kilamba.

_________________________________________

France.... to support access to justice

for victims of sexual violence in DRC

Kinshasa, October 3rd, 12:36pm

(Prensa Latina)

France will support access to justice for victims of sexual violence

in conflict zones in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), for

which it will contribute more than 1.3 million euros for the

period 2026-2028.

The cooperation project was established on the basis of a letter of

intent signed by the Congolese Minister of Justice, Guillaume

Ngefa Atondoko Andali, and the French Minister for Europe

and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, who concludes

his visit to this African nation today.

Called "Support for the rule of law in favour of victims of sexual

violence in conflict zones," the initiative seeks to facilitate

free access for victims to judicial mechanisms and

strengthen mechanisms aimed at ensuring

their reparation.

The National Fund for Reparations for Victims of Conflict-Related

Sexual Violence and Crimes against Peace and Security of

Humanity (Fonarev) and the DRC Ministry of Justice, will

shake hands for its implementation, Actualité.CD said.

The project includes the coverage of procedural expenses and

lawyers' fees, the deployment of mobile legal clinics to bring

services closer to the population and the organization of

itinerant hearings.

Other aspects included in its design are the training of magistrates,

judicial police officers and lawyers... in order to improve the

documentation of crimes, the conduct of investigations

and the judicial treatment of files.

Trust... is a wonderful thing!

___________________________________

EU escalates ‘neo-colonial’

cocaine-linked African

sanctions

October 1st, 1:50pm

(rt.ru)

Sierra Leone has insisted -- it does

not depend on cash from Brussels.

The EU Commission has halted foreign aid payments to Sierra Leone

ostensibly over a Dutch demand that Freetown must extradite a

convicted drug trafficker. The move has escalated a dispute

that has led the West African country to accuse the

Netherlands’ government of neo-colonialism.

Dutch Justice and Security Minister David van Weel announced the

suspension on X on Thursday while attending a meeting of EU

justice and home affairs ministers in Luxembourg.

He described the move as “a good start” to efforts to strengthen

the “EU sanctions regime against organized crime.”

The dispute centres on Jos Leijdekkers, known as “Bolle Jos,” who

was handed a 24-year sentence in the Netherlands in June 2024,

for cocaine trafficking, an armed robbery and ordering a murder.

He remains on the Dutch police’s most-wanted list. He has also

reportedly received prison sentences totaling around 100

years, in Belgium.

Sierra Leone --- had been due to receive €18 million (about $20.3

million) in aid before year-end for education, food programs and

infrastructure, public broadcaster NOS reported.

A further €22.5 million (about $25.4 million) pledged for 2027

could also be suspended if Sierra Leone continues to refuse

cooperation, Van Weel said. The Commission has not yet

publicly announced the suspension.

Reuters reported early last year, citing sources with direct

knowledge of the matter, that Leijdekkers had found

refuge and high-level protection in Sierra Leone

and was married to President Julius Maada

Bio’s daughter Agnes.

Footage verified by the agency ....showed the fugitive seated

two rows behind Bio at a church service on January 1, 2025.

In a statement that month, Sierra Leone’s Information Ministry said

Bio had no knowledge of Leijdekkers’ identity .....or the allegations

against him. It noted that the president attended numerous family

events and public gatherings during the holiday season, where

he was photographed with many attendees.

The government announced a “transparent and thorough”

investigation and pledged cooperation with the Dutch

authorities, Interpol, and other international law

enforcement agencies.

The Netherlands submitted an extradition request to the West

African country in February 2025. The two countries lack a

bilateral extradition treaty.

Speaking on Sierra Leonean broadcaster AYV’s State of the Nation

on September 9, Chief Minister David Moinina Sengeh said

the country’s intelligence services do “not know where

Leijdekkers is.”

The minister accused Van Weel of acting like a “neo-colonialist.”

He said Sierra Leone is an independent country ------ that does

“not live on EU aid.”

Van Weel dismissed the accusation as “ridiculous”

in comments to NOS reported last month.

Sengeh also accused The Hague of double standards, saying it

had refused to extradite Netherlands-based government critic

Abdul Kamara (‘Adebayor’), whom Freetown accuses of

inciting violence, including riots in August 2022, that

left at least 26 civilians and 6 police officers dead.

Sierra Leone.. is a key transit hub for cocaine trafficked from South

America to Europe, according to assessments by Interpol and the

2025 Global Organized Crime Index. Spanish authorities seized

30.2 metric tons aboard a cargo ship that had departed from

Freetown in May this year, arresting 23 people, including

Dutch and Filipino nationals.

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______________________________________

West pushing Africa to skip

Russia summit – Moscow

October 1st, 12:50pm

(rt.ru)

The continent’s states face attempts to discourage them

from attending the October gathering, Foreign Ministry

spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has said

Western countries are pressuring African states ------ in an attempt to

prevent them from attending the upcoming Russia-Africa Summit in

Moscow, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova

said on Wednesday.

The alleged pressure... comes ahead of the October 28-29 gathering.

The leaders of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger are expected to attend,

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Aleksandr Alimov said on Thursday.

The three Sahel states have strengthened ties with Moscow in

recent years.

“We are certainly observing attempts by our detractors in Western

nations to pressure African partners in an effort to prevent them

from coming to Moscow,” Zakharova said.

She described it as a continuation.. of the colonial approach toward

Africa, stating that “former colonial powers are failing to keep pace

with a changing world” and Western countries continue to seek to

dictate foreign policy choices to African states.

The spokeswoman did not name the countries involved or provide

specific examples. She said -- African states pursue independent

foreign policies based on their national interests and expressed

confidence that the summit would be held --- with broad
African representation.

In September, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov singled out

France, claiming that President Emmanuel Macron would use a

trip to Africa to try to dissuade African leaders from attending

the summit. Lavrov said Moscow’s suspicions were based

on “certain facts,” but did not provide details.

Earlier this year, Zakharova raised similar concerns, saying Russia

had encountered attempts to obstruct African participation in the

2023 summit and ministerial conferences in Sochi in 2024, and

Cairo in 2025.

Ahead of the St. Petersburg summit in 2023, Kremlin spokesman

Dmitry Peskov accused the US, France, and other Western

countries of using their diplomatic missions in Africa to

pressure governments to prevent active participation.

He said such efforts ---- denied African states the

sovereign right to choose their own partners.

Tensions over African countries’ ties with Moscow.. have also spilled

into economic relations. Senior US lawmakers that year, questioned

South Africa’s eligibility for trade benefits under the African Growth

and Opportunity Act (AGOA), citing Pretoria’s ''military ties''
with Russia, and sought to move an annual US-Africa
trade forum ...out of the country.

Washington has publicly claimed that African countries should be

free to choose their own partners. “America will not dictate

Africa’s choices. Neither should anyone else,” then-US

Secretary of State Antony Blinken, said in 2022.

The inaugural Russia-Africa Summit in Sochi in 2019, drew official

delegations from all 54 African countries, with 45 represented by

heads of state or government.

The second summit in St. Petersburg in 2023 drew official

delegations from 48 countries, with 27 represented by a

head of state or the second-highest-ranking official.

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_______________________________________________

Close ally of Zimbabwe's President

just killed --- in a helicopter crash

October 1st, 9:30am

(rt.ru)

Businessman Wicknell Chivayo and his wife are among

the six victims, a family spokesperson has said

A helicopter carrying six people, including a close ally

of Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa,

crashed in the country’s east on Wednesday,

leaving no survivors, officials have said.

The aircraft came down at about 5 PM local time near Waddilove

Mission in Marondera district, east of the capital, Harare,

Zimbabwean police said in a statement, later the

same day.

According to government spokesman Nick Mangwana, the

helicopter was carrying a high-profile businessman, three

other passengers and two pilots. “Current information

indicates that there were no survivors in this crash,”

Mangwana wrote on X, adding that the police “will

confirm the names of the victims in due course.”

State-owned newspaper The Herald identified businessman

Wicknell Chivayo and his wife, Lucy Muteke, as among the

dead, citing a family spokesperson.

Chivayo founded Intratrek Zimbabwe, an energy and infrastructure

company awarded the contract to develop the country’s 100-

megawatt Gwanda solar project. He was a prominent

supporter of Mnangagwa and the ruling ZANU-PF

party. He visited the president at his rural home

on New Year’s Day this year and joined him

during a meeting with South African

President, Cyril Ramaphosa, at

Mnangagwa’s private farm

in May.

Kenyan President William Ruto also confirmed the couple’s deaths

in a condolence message on X on Thursday, describing Chivayo

as “a dear friend whose warmth touched many people.”

“I will remember him for his friendship, his energy and his deep

conviction in the possibilities of our continent,” Ruto said. He

extended condolences to the victims’ families, President

Emmerson Mnangagwa and the people of Zimbabwe.

A helicopter scheduled to transport Mnangagwa --- crashed at

Masvingo Airport on September 15, 2024, after experiencing

what officials described as a technical fault. The president

was not aboard, and no fatalities were reported.

Other southern African countries have also recorded such

accidents, some involving senior officials. A helicopter

crash - by Danielskuil in neighbouring South Africa’s

Northern Cape, killed all three aboard in October

2025. Malawi’s Vice President, Saulos Chilima

and eight others ...died in a military plane

crash --- in the country’s mountainous

north.. in June 2024. Zambia’s Vice

President Mutale Nalumango and

all other passengers and crew

escaped injury - in a military

helicopter takeoff accident

at Nakonde on July 9th...

this year.

The cause of Wednesday’s crash has yet to be established.

Zimbabwe’s Air Force has previously complained of an

aging fleet, saying Western sanctions had hampered

purchases of replacement aircraft, Reuters

reported ....after the fatal 2021 crash.

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__________________________________________

New anti-immigrant

demonstrations in

South Africa

Pretoria, September 30th, 1:50pm

(Prensa Latina)

New demonstrations against illegal immigration took place today in

the South African city of Durban, the main scene of demonstrations

in recent times.

This time the participants also spoke out against the gender-

based violence and attacks by criminal gangs that occurred

in Johannesburg and other cities.

On the other hand, this Wednesday, September 30, was the

unofficial deadline set by nationalist groups for irregular

immigrants to leave the country.

South Africa has experienced an intense anti-immigration campaign

in recent months, which left episodes of violence against foreign

citizens in several cities and as a result of which several

immigrants were killed.

This wave of anti-immigrant violence caused the hasty departure of

more than 200,000 people from the country, according to figures

published by African governments repatriating their citizens.

_____________________________________________________

DR Congo politician killed for

defending Ebola measures

– ruling party

September 30th, 1:10pm

(RT.ru)

The UDPS has linked the attack to Marie-Celestin
Karondwa’s support for measures against
the disease.

An official from the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s ruling party

has died after being attacked following a radio appearance in the

Ebola-hit eastern city of Butembo, local media reported

on Monday.

Marie-Celestin Karondwa, a spokesperson for the Union for

Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS) in Butembo, was

assaulted on Sunday and later died from his injuries, the

Congolese Press Agency (ACP) reported - citing a party

statement. His property was also looted and his home

set on fire.

As quoted by Reuters, the party said he was “an innocent victim for

having ‌defended the party’s position on the existence of the Ebola

virus disease... and the threat it poses to the population.”

The motive remains unclear, although the party has linked the

attack to his public support for measures against Ebola. The

UDPS called for an investigation and for those responsible

to be brought to justice.

The killing comes -- amid resistance to the Ebola response in

eastern DR Congo. The World Health Organization (WHO)

has said insecurity and attacks on health facilities are

complicating efforts to contain the outbreak by

restricting access for response teams,

disrupting surveillance ...and

discouraging people from

seeking care.

The WHO recorded 12 attacks on health care between the

declaration of a public health emergency of international

concern on May 17 and mid-August, with additional

incidents under verification. Similar resistance

has hampered efforts to contain previous

Ebola outbreaks in the region.

The Ebola response is also being complicated by insecurity

and mass displacements. The WHO has said conflict is

restricting access for response teams and hampering

disease surveillance, contact tracing, and access

to care.

The outbreak has meanwhile continued to grow. As of September

27, DR Congo had recorded 8,116 confirmed cases and 3,924

deaths, according to the country’s National Institute of

Public Health (INSP). The case fatality rate stood

at 48.3%.

The disease is caused by the Bundibugyo species of Ebola virus.

There is currently no approved vaccine or specific treatment for

the strain, although candidate vaccines and treatments are

being studied, according to the WHO.

Russia --- has provided assistance to countries affected by the

outbreak. Rospotrebnadzor has sent specialists to Uganda

and supplied Russian-developed PCR diagnostic tests to

Uganda, DR Congo, and the Republic of Congo.

In July, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Moscow

was prepared to establish mass production of a vaccine

adapted to the Bundibugyo strain once it obtained

the necessary biological material.

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_____________________________________________

Mali takes its case against Ukraine

to the UN. What -------- is behind it?

September 30th, 12:55pm

(RT.ru)

Kiev is aiding jihadists and separatist rebels that have
joined forces against Bamako, the African country’s
foreign minister, has stated.

Mali has taken its case against Ukraine to the UN again, two years

after severing diplomatic ties with Kiev over a rebel ambush that

killed dozens of Malian soldiers and allied Russian forces.

Malian Foreign Minister, Abdoulaye Diop, told the UN General

Assembly on Monday that Ukraine is aiding armed groups

in the Sahel and urged the international community

to respond.

Why has Mali raised the accusation again?

Diop’s remarks follow a series of coordinated militant raids in Mali

and new reports of Ukrainian assistance with drone operations.

Pointing to attacks on April 25 and July 4, he said they exposed a

“dangerous connection” between jihadists and separatist rebels,

and accused Kiev of aiding forces --- that threaten his country’s

territorial integrity.

“Ukraine is just the visible part of the iceberg,” he said,
claiming the violence was part of a wider effort to
destabilize the Sahel states and obstruct their
break with former colonial influence.

The April offensive by the Al-Qaeda-linked Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam

wal-Muslimin (JNIM) and the Tuareg-led Azawad Liberation Front

(FLA) struck several cities and killed Malian Defense Minister

Sadio Camara. Mali’s army said it repelled assaults on

military sites and key infrastructure with support

from Russia’s Africa Corps, killing more than

200 militants.

Malian Prime Minister Abdoulaye Maiga described the offensive

as an attempt to seize power. The Russian Defense Ministry

acknowledged the assault, saying it amounted to an

attempted coup and claimed that the attackers

had received training involving Ukrainian and

European mercenary instructors.

How did the dispute with Ukraine begin?

In July 2024, Tuareg rebels -- ambushed Malian troops and Wagner

Group contractors near Tinzaouaten, close to the Algerian border.

Ukrainian military intelligence spokesman Andrey Yusov later

said the rebels had received “necessary information”

that enabled the operation, adding that “there

will be a continuation.”

Yuriy Pyvovarov, then Ukraine’s ambassador to Senegal,

shared Yusov’s interview on Facebook, writing, “The

work will continue. There will certainly be other

results.” Senegal --- summoned him over the

post, while Mali --- cited the remarks as

evidence of Kiev’s involvement, and

severed diplomatic ties.

What has been reported about any

Ukrainian involvement since then?

Le Monde reported in 2024 that Ukrainian intelligence had taught

Tuareg rebels to build and operate explosive drones, citing

sources close to the group. This month, CNN interviewed

Ukrainian personnel who said about 15 specialists were

assisting the FLA with unmanned aircraft. One

described remotely directing rebel

drone missions.

Fousseynou Ouattara, the vice president of the defense commission

of Mali’s transitional council, told TASS in July - that the authorities

had identified fighters who had received drone training in Ukraine.

Malian outlet Bamada also reported that soldiers recovered a drone

bearing Ukrainian writing and documents allegedly linked to

Ukrainian intelligence during operations against JNIM.

What has Ukraine said?

Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry has rejected the Sahel states’ terrorism

allegations, describing them as “groundless and untrue” and

calling Mali’s decision to sever ties “hasty.” In August 2024,

it said Bamako had provided no evidence of Ukrainian

involvement in the Tinzaouaten attack. Ukraine’s

military intelligence agency also referred CNN

to earlier official remarks when approached

for comment on its September report of

Ukrainian drone specialists assisting

rebels in Mali.

Is Mali alone in making the accusation?

Niger and Burkina Faso -- have also accused Ukraine of supporting

armed groups. The three Alliance of Sahel States (AES) members

filed a complaint with the UN Security Council in August 2024.

During a televised interview on Sunday -- reviewing his four years in

office, Burkina Faso’s interim President Ibrahim Traore said he had

placed Ukraine on his country’s “map of enemies.” Speaking

about what he described as attempts to destabilize Mali

and Niger, he warned these were “only the beginning.”

He cited Pyvovarov’s comment, saying the diplomat

had “clearly stated that they were involved” in

supporting armed groups in the Sahel.

What does Moscow say?

Russia backs the Sahel states’ accusations. Last month, Russia's

Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov accused Kiev of “state terrorism”

against countries in the region, citing reports ------- of serving

Ukrainian troops joining attacks alongside armed groups.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova previously said

Kiev was opening a “second front” against Russia in Africa,
by supporting militants in countries friendly to Moscow.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister, Georgy Borisenko, told TASS on

July 17 that Ukrainian instructors trained in drone warfare were

embedded with Islamist militants in Mali. He also alleged

a Ukrainian involvement in attacks on Russian interests

in Libya, and support for paramilitary forces in Sudan,

extending Moscow’s accusations beyond the Sahel.

Why have the Sahel states turned to Russia?

Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso ------ ended defense ties with France,

accusing it of failing to contain the insurgency and interfering in

their affairs. They have strengthened their counterterrorism, in

cooperation with Russia.

Nearly 49,000 people have been killed in violence linked

to militant Islamist groups in the Sahel since 2022, the

Africa Centre for Strategic Studies said in August.

Mali and Russia... signed a military cooperation agreement in June

2019. Bamako sought Russian private military assistance in 2021.

Wagner was replaced by Russia’s Defense Ministry-run Africa

Corps in June 2025. The corps operates at an African

governments’ official request, Lavrov said

last month.

At the UN on Monday, Diop said the AES remained open to

partnerships, respecting its members’ sovereignty. “We

do not accept dictates; rather, we seek sincere and

healthy cooperation,” he said.

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___________________________________________

Five crew members killed ---- on

ship hijacked by Somali pirates

Mogadishu, September 30th, 12:34pm

(Prensa Latina)

Five crew members of an oil tanker hijacked by Somali pirates

were killed shortly before a rescue operation began, maritime

authorities in Puntland, a break-away parcel of coast land in

northern Somalia, on the Bab al Manded trait..... said today.

The Palauan-flagged oil tanker MT Honour 25 was hijacked on

April 21 and released the day before... after Somali pirates

killed five crew members and injured four others, before

a ''rescue operation'' by the Puntland Maritime Police

Force (PMPF) began.

According to the Pmpf, in the development of the operation

16 pirates were arrested, while another number, still

undetermined, managed to ......escape.

In recent times, there has been a boom in pirate activities
in that region... after they had decreased in the current
decade due to the patrols of ships from the EU and
other countries, which shrank after the conflict
with Iran and Yemen began.

Along with Somaliland (east), Puntland is one of two Somali
separatist regions, the former with limited regional

recognition, but - apart from the UK's MI6 -

no international support.

____________________________________________

South African President Announces

Measures ---- to Combat Femicides

Pretoria, September 30th, 11:44am

(Prensa Latina)

The President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, announced new

measures to combat violence against women, especially those

femicides that occurred in Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg,

it was learned here today.

In a national address, Ramaphosa said the day before that the

nation is angry and the women of South Africa are angry, and

this anger is justified --- so he shares that anger.

Since mid-July, 11 women have been murdered and the

discovery of their bodies has raised the alarm about

the rise in levels of violence against women.

Meanwhile, the authorities are investigating whether a serial

killer or several are responsible, and dangerous and high-

risk areas must be identified throughout the country.

Four people were said to be in custody and a nationwide

multi-disciplinary emergency response was set up to

investigate the killings in Ekurhuleni, where the

victims were in their 20s and 30s, and some

showed signs of sexual assault.

According to the United Nations, South Africa

has one of the highest rates of femicide

in the world.

__________________________________________

Sudan demands UN action

against external backers

of armed rebels

September 29th, 10:25am

(rt.ru)

Khartoum’s foreign minister -- has accused the Security
Council of failing to identify and condemn the
paramilitary group’s sponsors.

Sudan has called for international action against foreign parties

supporting the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF)

opposing the government, and accused the UN

Security Council of failing to identify and

condemn the group’s sponsors.

Sudanese Foreign Minister Mohieldin Salim Ahmed Ibrahim made the

appeal at the UN General Assembly in New York on Monday, saying

external support for the RSF ----------- is prolonging the war.

“Pressure must be exerted on the regional sponsors

------- and certain neighbouring states,” Ibrahim said.

The foreign minister accused ''unnamed countries' -' of allowing

weapons and supplies to reach the RSF through their territory

and enabling attacks by the paramilitary group and

mercenaries to be launched from outside

Sudan’s borders.

He also claimed - hospitals had been established in

neighbouring states to treat wounded RSF fighters.

Ibrahim said the UN Security Council had failed to identify

and condemn the RSF’s sponsors, which he accused of

recruiting foreign mercenaries... providing political

backing to the paramilitary group - and financing

media platforms spreading what he described

as disinformation --- against the Sudanese

Armed Forces (SAF).

Sudan has previously accused the United Arab Emirates (UAE) of

providing military support to the RSF, allegations Abu Dhabi has

repeatedly denied. Khartoum has also accused neighbouring

Ethiopia ------- of allowing its territory to be used for drone

attacks against Sudan, a claim Addis Ababa denies.

The accusations come weeks after a UN fact-finding mission found

reasonable grounds to believe that a transnational network had

supplied the RSF with weapons, logistics, training and foreign

personnel. Investigators --- identified the private entities and
intermediaries operating from countries, including the UAE,

with transit routes through Chad, southeastern Libya

and Somalia.

Ibrahim said peace would require the RSF to be disarmed and

its weapons to remain under the control of state institutions.

He also called for attacks on civilians and infrastructure ---

to end.

Diplomatic efforts to end the war have intensified on the sidelines of

the UN General Assembly in New York. Russian Foreign Minister

Sergey Lavrov discussed ways to resolve the conflict with his

Sudanese counterpart last week, while the African Union

and the US called for an immediate humanitarian truce

followed by a durable ceasefire and a Sudanese-led

political process.

Washington does not regard either side as representing legitimate

constitutional rule in Sudan. Khartoum strongly rejected the US

position, calling for respect for the country’s sovereignty and

national institutions and warning against legitimizing the

RSF ....through force.

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__________________________________________

Dozens of human skulls..

found in Nigerian forests

September 29th, 10:25am

(rt.ru)

Suspects in the case fled - during raids on criminal camps in

Abia State, police spokesperson Maureen Chinaka has said.

At least 28 skulls of suspected kidnap victims have been

recovered from outlaw forest hideouts in southeastern

Nigeria, the African nation’s law enforcement

authorities have reported.

Police found the skulls and other bones during raids on Saturday in

the Umuaku and Nneato forests of Abia State. The suspects fled

before officers could arrest them, the police spokesperson

Maureen Chinaka said.

“The criminal camps were subsequently dismantled. Investigations

are ongoing, while monitoring of the area continues, and efforts

are intensified - to apprehend the fleeing suspects,” Chinaka

said in a statement.

The remains were found...... during a weekend of mass abductions

elsewhere in Africa’s most populous nation. Armed men seized at

least 47 farmers harvesting peanuts in Niger State on Saturday,

while about 40 women were kidnapped in neighbouring

Zamfara on Sunday, AFP reported, citing security

reports and a local source. The Nigerian Army

said it foiled two other abduction attempts

in Zamfara on Sunday ----- and rescued

10 people.

Nigeria has faced a security crisis for more than a decade, marked

by kidnappings by armed gangs. Security consultancy SBM

Intelligence recorded 7,825 people abducted nationwide

between July 2025 and June 2026, a 66% rise on the

previous year.

The police raids in Abia took place in Umunneochi district --- where

gunmen have targeted travelers and residents for years. The state

government ordered more checkpoints and told people living in

the forests to leave - after the kidnapping of Methodist Church

leader Samuel Kanu-Uche there, in 2022.

A local archbishop described Umunneochi at the time

as a “money making centre ------- for kidnappers.”

The violence has continued despite a nationwide security

emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu, the

recruitment of more police personnel and forest

guards, and increased security cooperation....

with the US.

Around 200 US were deployed to Nigeria in February to support

counterterrorism operations. Most have since withdrawn, and

Nigeria said the main force is expected to leave by the end

of September, with a smaller ''advisory'' team remaining.

US Africa Command --- called the mission a success, saying a joint

operation killed Abu-Bilal al-Minuki and other senior Islamic State

figures and disrupted the group’s wider network.

Nigerian opposition politician Samuel Memeh disagreed,

telling RT the deployment: “has not yielded significant

improvements” in security.

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_____________________________________________

Mapping began in Kinshasa

with a view to the general

census in DRC

Kinshasa, September 28th, 3:30pm

(Prensa Latina)

Cartographic operations for the second General Population and

Housing Census (RGPH-2) in the Democratic Republic of

Congo (DRC) began today in Kinshasa and will
last for a month.

It involves the cartographers touring the neighbourhoods

of the Congolese capital in order to identify homes and

infrastructure and prepare a map that will allow the

count scheduled for July 2027, to be carried out.

For the deployment of the forces on the ground, team leaders

concluded their training last Friday, who are in charge of

supervising over 1,800 cartographer operators, who

also received training.

The DRC is carrying out its second general census 42 years

after the first and only one carried out so far, so its results

are of particular importance to get closer to the reality

of the Congolese population, for decision-making.

The president of the DRC, Félix Tshisekedi, said that "continuing

to plan without complete, reliable and up-to-date demographic

data would be tantamount to governing without visibility and,

therefore, would weaken the state's ability to accurately

meet the expectations of the population".

The inquiry is supported by the United Nations Population Fund

(UNFPA) in the use of pilot methods for conducting census

operations under difficult conditions.

The UN agency specified that demographic intelligence will be

used, based on the use of various mechanisms that take

advantage of new information and communication

technologies... to ensure full data collection.

______________________________________________

More than 5,000 civilians

fled the fighting in DRC

Kinshasa, September 28th, 2:40pm

(Prensa Latina)

More than five thousand civilians fled between Sunday night

and this morning to bases of the UNs Stabilization Mission

in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) in

Rhoe and Gina.

The displaced sought the protection of the peacekeepers due to

the clashes that occurred in these towns in the territory of

Djugu, in the province of Ituri, between 2 armed groups

...the so-called Cooperative for the Development of
Congo (Codeco) and the so-called Convention
for the Popular Revolution (CRP).

There were also confrontations between the Armed Forces of the

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the PRC, Radio Okapi

reported, citing a statement from MONUSCO.

The peacekeepers said that over 3,000 civilians gathered in the

vicinity of the Rhoe base and there were exchanges of fire

with the Codeco militia, both at this site and in Blukwa;

The medical team treated seven wounded civilians.

The deterioration of the security situation in the area led to

an increase in security operations by the blue helmets,

who carry out patrols in the Panga Panga, Risasi,

Gina and Nyampala axes, as well as along

National Highway 27, with the aim of

protecting the population.

________________________________________________

Weekend of violence in South Africa
Pretoria, September 28th, 2:21pm
(Prensa Latina)

A total of 27 people killed was the result of two incidents with

firearms that occurred in South Africa over the weekend, a

few hours apart, police sources highlight here today.

One of the shootings took place in a bar west of Johannesburg,

when men armed with assault rifles fired indiscriminately at

attendees, leaving a preliminary toll of 17 dead and

15 wounded.

Meanwhile, another shooting at a venue near Cape Town

caused 10 deaths and 11 injuries.

The police reported that the causes of both events are being

investigated, but there are still no results, nor have any

arrests been made.

In recent days, South Africa has been facing a new wave

of gun violence that has already left 38 people dead

in less than a week.

In another incident, 11 people lost their lives during another

shooting at a private party, including a pregnant woman.

Local authorities point out that the shootings are related to

criminal gangs fighting for control of territories ----- and to

establish control over areas in the country's main cities.

________________________________________________

Former president of Guinea Bissau

intends to participate in elections

Bissau, September 28th, 2pm

(Prensa Latina)

The deposed president of Guinea Bissau, Umaro Sissoco

Embaló, today expressed his intentions to return to the

country on Sunday to run as a candidate in the

next elections.

The presidential elections -- are scheduled

for December 6 and Embaló said, reports

the Jeune Afrique Magazine - that he

will run as a candidate despite

currently being in exile.

The former president left the country for Senegal, a day after the

military coup, after a disputed election in which both the ousted

president and the main opposition candidate, Fernando Dias da

Costa, were proclaimed winners.

Embaló assumed the presidency in February 2020, after defeating

in the second round the candidate of the PAIGC-CV, the founding

party of the nation, since the independence of Portugal, and

which has governed since 1974.

___________________________________

Cuba's speech broadcast from Zimbabwe

at the United Nations General Assembly

Harare, September 28th, 12:48pm

(Prensa Latina)

The law of the jungle cannot be the future of humanity, said the

coordinator of the Fidel Castro Chair in Zimbabwe, Mafa

Kwanisai, today commenting on the speech of Cuban

Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez at the UN.

The central message was pointed: the world cannot build peace

as long as powerful states continue to use military pressure,

economic coercion and political intimidation against

weaker nations, Mafa highlighted in his analysis

published in regional media, such as The

Panafrikanist and The Southern Africa

Eye News.

Sixty-six years after Fidel Castro appeared at the same rostrum

of the United Nations and demanded the disappearance of the

philosophies of plunder and war, Cuba took up that historic

argument with renewed urgency, the analyst observed.

He pondered... how the island's government claimed that

expansionism, military aggression, economic coercion,

and attacks on national sovereignty -- once again --

threaten the foundations of international law.

The United States has intensified what Havana describes as a

multidimensional campaign against Cuba, including severe

restrictions on fuel supplies, trade, financing, technology

and international business.

Mafa recalled that more than seven thousand containers were

stranded in the ports --- affecting food, medicine and medical

equipment in an economic war, ultimately directed against

the population.

If economic coercion becomes an accepted instrument of

international policy, all developing countries become

vulnerable, he warned.

Cuba's stance continues to resonate in much of the Global South.

Cuba's history has made sovereignty a fundamental pillar of its

political identity.

The foreign minister of the Caribbean island argued that

attempts -- to force political change through economic

asphyxiation are tantamount ------- to an attack on the

sovereignty for which generations of Cubans fought.

He rejected the characterization of Cuba as a threat to

the United States, instead highlighting its track record

of international cooperation ------ and longstanding

engagement with other developing countries.

The declaration offers another lesson, the professor said,

highlighting the recognition of the serious challenges of

the economy and the ongoing efforts to ''transform the

country's economic and social model'' --- while still

maintaining its full independence, sovereignty

and social achievements.

According to Mafa.... in The Panafrikanist and The Southern

Africa Eye News, Cuba explicitly advocated strengthening

the UN and bringing it closer to the peoples of the world.

It also reaffirms its solidarity with countries and peoples

facing colonial legacies, sanctions, interventions and

struggles for self-determination, including African

and Caribbean nations.

The most forceful phrase of the speech, he said, was also

the simplest: "The law of the jungle cannot be the future

of humanity." That warning should not be dismissed as

mere rhetoric.

The world requires sovereign nations, equal under international law,

that cooperate instead of coerce, that trade instead of suffocating,

that negotiate instead of threatening, and that build peace

instead of preparing for war.

As Cuba's foreign minister concluded, this alternative is not

inevitable. A better world is still possible if peoples and

ations fight with determination to build it, emphasized

he coordinator of the Fidel Castro Chair, attached to

the University of Midlands, in Zimbabwe.

___________________________________________

Ethiopia celebrates Meskel festival,

one of the largest in the country

Addis Ababa, September 26th, 12:27am

(Prensa Latina)

Followers of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church today celebrate Meskel,

considered one of the most important religious events in the

country, which commemorates the discovery of the

true cross on which Jesus was crucified.

Officially qualified as the Feast of Commemoration of the Discovery

of the True Holy Cross of Christ, it was inscribed in 2013 on the

Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of

Humanity of the United Nations Educational,

Scientific and Cultural Organization.

Although it is a Christian holiday in the Orthodox churches

of Ethiopia and Eritrea, most people participate, without

distinction of age, gender, language, ethnicity or

religious creed.

The arrival of Meskel coincides with the blooming of yellow

flowers (Adey Ababa, in Amharic), whose bright colours

are closely associated with this season.

Across the country, families and communities are celebrating

this new beginning with gatherings, traditional dishes, music,

greetings and customs that give Ethiopian New Year 2019 -

its distinctive character.

On the occasion of the two-day festivities, Prime Minister Abiy

Ahmed extended the invitation to foreign tourists - to discover

Ethiopia, also driven by measures aimed at facilitating travel

and access to the country.

For the visitor, it is an opportunity not only to witness a festival,

but to learn about a tradition, whose meaning endures through

the centuries.

According to legend, Queen Helena, mother of the Roman Emperor

Constantine the Great, discovered in the fourth century the cross

on which Jesus was crucified. The monarch prayed to know the

place and dreamed that she should make a bonfire, the smoke

of which would direct her to where the cross was.

The latter refers to the Demera festival, celebrated this afternoon,

and consists of erecting a bonfire and in its surroundings the

priests sing hymns, recite prayers and dance from before

sunset and until ....almost the end of the day.

The Ministry of Tourism launched a Digital Tourism Information

Centre at its headquarters in Addis Ababa, equipped with high-

tech screens and interactive devices, to provide visitors with

information in a more engaging way.

Meanwhile, the Visit Ethiopia digital platform is being upgraded

with artificial intelligence features, designed to provide more

personalized tourism services, as part of a broader effort,

to align Ethiopia's sector development ...with

digital transformation.

__________________________________________

Africa ------ must have a say in

global AI rules – South Africa

September 25th, 1:10pm

(rt.ru)

The continent’s resources and young population

give it a major role in emerging technologies,

Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola has said.

Africa must have a say in shaping the global rules that govern

artificial intelligence, South African Foreign Minister Ronald

Lamola has said, arguing that the continent should play a

greater role in emerging technologies.

Speaking at the 81st UN General Assembly in New York on

Thursday, Lamola linked Africa’s role in AI development to

the continent’s vast reserves of critical minerals and its

young population. He said these resources could help

narrow the gap between richer and poorer countries,

while African states could contribute to AI research

and innovation.

“Africa -- must have a stake in shaping the rules that govern

the development and deployment of artificial intelligence,”

the minister said.

Lamola also renewed Pretoria’s push for broader reform of

global institutions, particularly the UN Security Council.

Africa accounts for more than a quarter of UN member

states, yet has no permanent seat on the council.

Earlier this month, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa

proposed that BRICS establish an international mechanism

for the independent scientific assessment of AI. Speaking

at the group’s summit in New Delhi, he also called for

AI companies to face formal external checks, and

government oversight.

South Africa - is also developing its own AI industry. Johannesburg-

based company Lelapa AI has built language technology
designed for African languages ----- focusing on smaller
and more resource-efficient models that can operate
with limited computing power.

The African Union (AU) has also sought to give the continent a

greater role in global AI governance. Its Continental Artificial

Intelligence Strategy, adopted in 2024, calls for an Africa-

centred approach to the technology & the development

of common governance frameworks, to ensure its

responsible use.

Earlier this month, the AU brought together African diplomats in

Geneva to coordinate the continent’s position in international

negotiations on AI and digital policy. The bloc said African

countries could help shape global AI standards and rules

by presenting a common position in international talks.

_____________________________________________

Africa rejects new scramble for

minerals – Ghanaian president

September 25th, 1:05pm

(rt.ru)

The continent seeks equal partnership, John Mahama has

said and warning -- against predatory resource extraction.

Africa will not accept another era of colonial-style resource

extraction as global demand for critical minerals grows,

Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has told

the UN General Assembly (UNGA), calling for

structural reforms --------- to address

historical injustices.

The remarks come as the US and EU pursue deals with African

governments to secure minerals such as copper, cobalt, and

lithium for electric vehicles, batteries, and power grids,

while seeking to reduce their reliance on China.

African countries hold substantial deposits, but often export raw

minerals. A UN Trade and Development report published in June

says many mineral agreements still focus heavily on extraction

---- warning that resource-rich African countries could miss out

on the value generated by processing and manufacturing.

“Africa - will not remain a passive arena for a new scramble

for resources,” Mahama said on Thursday. He said African

countries must process their minerals at home, build

local industries, and retain much more of the

wealth they generate.

Several African governments have moved to tighten control over

their mineral resources in recent years. DR Congo, the world’s

largest cobalt producer, has banned exports of copper and

cobalt concentrates to encourage local processing under

an order reported in August. Zimbabwe also suspended

exports of raw minerals and lithium concentrates

in February.

Ghana has required licensed aggregators to refine gold locally since

September 1, with Mahama pledging to end raw mineral ore exports

by 2030. In July, the West African nation’s neighbour Mali created a

state body to oversee artisanal gold sales -- and curb smuggling,

while Niger nationalized the Somair uranium venture operated

by the French government-owned Orano, last year.

Aside from critical minerals, Mahama also renewed the call

for slavery reparations in his role as the African Union’s

champion for the campaign. In March, Ghana secured

a UN resolution recognizing the transatlantic slave

trade and chattel slavery as the gravest crimes

against humanity. It passed, with 123 votes.

The US, Israel, and Argentina ------- voted

against it. 52 countries ..abstained.

Mahama welcomed what he called - “positive overtures”

from countries, particularly the Netherlands, Germany,

and France, as well as from institutions, on reparatory

justice and restitution following the passage of the

“historic resolution.”

The Ghanaian leader, however, said real repair requires

“structural transformation,” including “dismantling the

persistent engines of exploitation: unfair global trade

regimes, continuing predatory resource extraction,

discriminatory credit ratings, [and] unsustainable

debt burdens.”

“Africa does not seek charity. Africa seeks

equal partnership,” Mahama declared.

__________________________________________

Eleven killed.. in South

Africa house shooting

September 25th, 11:55am

(rt.ru)

Police have launched a manhunt after gunmen

opened fire on a gathering south of Durban.

Eleven people have been killed and three others wounded

in a mass shooting in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal

province, police said on Wednesday.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS) --- armed

assailants entered a house in the Ziko area of KwaMakhutha,

south of Durban, on Tuesday night .....and opened fire on a

group of 14 people who were having a party inside.

The motive for the attack has not yet been established.

Ten people, including a pregnant woman, died at the scene,

while four others were taken to hospital, where one later

succumbed to gunshot wounds, local media reports.

KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda

said preliminary investigations indicated that some of the

victims had been on the radar of Crime Intelligence in

connection with suspected illegal activities.

Acting National Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng

Dimpane ordered the activation of a 72-hour operation to track

down those responsible. No arrests have been announced.

Dimpane said investigators were pursuing a “promising lead”, that

could help identify and apprehend the suspects. “Police must act

decisively, mobilise all the available resources and pursue those

responsible - until they are brought before the courts,” she said.

South Africa has seen a series of violent incidents in recent

weeks. Earlier this month, the body of a tenth woman was

discovered in Gauteng, amid a string of killings in the

province. The unidentified victim, believed to be in

her 20s, was found wrapped in plastic in a dam

in Moroka, Soweto. Police said at the time

that they were investigating whether

the deaths were linked.

The country continues to record high levels of violent crime

despite a recent decline in killings. The latest police

figures show that 5,427 murders were recorded

nationwide between April and June 2026,

down 5.9% from 5,770 in the same

period last year. Police also

recorded 6,958 attempted

murders during the three-

month period, a rise of

8.7% year-on-year.

_________________________

Ethiopia faces return to

war as fighting spreads

September 25th, 8:30am

(rt.ru)

The federal army says....... it killed 272

regional fighters in a counteroffensive.

Fighting has escalated between Ethiopian troops and Tigrayan

forces, triggering the suspension of flights to the holy town of

Lalibela amid fears of a return to full-scale war in the north

of the country.

Ethiopia’s federal army said it repelled attacks in Amhara’s North

Wollo Zone and killed 272 Tigrayan fighters and wounded 260

others in a counteroffensive. Northeast army commander

Lieutenant General Assefa Chekol said fighters from the

Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) and allied

groups attempted to break through at

several locations.

“The army is carrying out the crucial task of clearing the occupied

zone of the enemy by conducting targeted counter-attacks from

key military positions it holds,” Chekol said in a statement

on Thursday.

The suspension of flights to Lalibela, home to UNESCO-listed rock-

hewn churches, came a day after TPLF-linked forces seized the

airports in Mekelle, Axum, and Shire. Ethiopian Airlines also

halted flights to these three cities in Tigray.

The two sides give conflicting accounts of how the fighting began.

On Wednesday, an adviser to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed accused

the TPLF of launching an “all-out offensive” against government

positions in Amhara and Afar.

Tigray’s regional authorities said their troops entered a “defensive

battle” after federal forces attacked them with aircraft, drones,

and artillery on Tuesday.

“We are in the situation of a full-blown war now,” TPLF

Vice President Amanuel Assefa told AFP on Thursday.

The TPLF dominated Ethiopian politics for nearly three decades

before Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed took office in 2018. A power

struggle between his government and Tigray’s leaders

erupted into war in November 2020. Eritrean troops

and Amhara forces fought alongside the federal

army against the Tigrayan forces.

Hundreds of thousands died..... before an African Union-mediated

peace agreement was signed in 2022. The agreement ended the

large-scale war, but disputes over territory, a return of displaced

people, and the disarmament of Tigrayan forces are unresolved.

In May, the TPLF restored Tigray’s prewar regional council and

elected party leader Debretsion Gebremichael as president

after a dispute over the region’s leadership.

The latest escalation follows Sunday’s announcement of an

alliance between the TPLF and six other groups, including

its former Amhara foes, to remove Abiy’s government.

The African Union has condemned the violence, warning that “the

formation of new political and military alliances” risks further

destabilizing the region ....and “reversing the gains made to

silence the guns, since 2020.” It said the airport seizures

and detention of federal personnel violate the 2022

peace agreement, asking AU mediator and former

Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, to

re-engage with the parties.

The UN has called for civilian protection

and humanitarian access.

____________________________

Egypt rolls out first
homegrown robot

September 25th, 5:55am

(rt.ru)

The robotic arm contains around 80% locally

produced components --- and is being

deployed on a packaging line

Egypt has unveiled the first locally developed industrial

robot, as the country seeks to expand domestic

manufacturing and reduce its reliance on

imported industrial technology.

The robot was officially launched and handed over at a

ceremony attended by Industry Minister Khaled

Hashem on Wednesday. According to the

Ministry of Trade and Industry, it was

developed by Egyptian engineers,

with locally produced technology.

Local media reported that around 80% of its components

are domestically produced, with developers aiming for

90% .....once motor production is localized.

The robotic arm.. is already being used commercially. It is

being integrated.. into packaging equipment operated by

Egyptian manufacturer QB and is designed for industrial

packaging and automation on production lines.

Hashem said localizing the production of machinery and

manufacturing lines --- is a key part of Egypt’s national

industrial strategy. He added that the ‘Made in Egypt’

label is intended to reflect the country’s ability to

develop technology, and integrate into global

supply chains.

The ministry said it will monitor the robot’s performance in

industrial operations to assess its effectiveness --- and

encourage wider adoption by Egyptian factories.

Egypt is not the only African country developing local expertise

in industrial robotics. Tunisia’s TIRA Robots has developed

robotic arms for integration into production lines, while

other local engineering companies, including XPERT

-MECA, design automated machinery and integrate

industrial robots produced by manufacturers

such as KUKA.

Industrial automation - is also well established in South Africa and

Morocco, particularly in the automotive sector. Local companies

integrate foreign-made robots into production lines. Morocco-

based MTS Robotics ....develops automated systems for

welding, assembly, handling, and packaging.

Cairo has also seen locally developed robots outside the

industrial sector. In September, a team from Tanta

University won the national RoboDam 2026

competition with an autonomous robot

designed for cleaning operations.

The university said the system could be manufactured locally

at a significantly lower cost than imported alternatives.

____________________________________________________________

Sudan rejects interventionist

statements --------- by the US

Khartoum, September 24th, 11:46am

(Prensa Latina)

The Sudanese Foreign Ministry rejected the statements of the

US that put the Sovereign Transitional Council (CST), which

governs the country, and the rebel paramilitary forces

on an equal footing, it was learned here today.

Thus, Sudan's Foreign Ministry reaffirmed its national sovereignty,

in a statement issued the day before, and urged Washington to

dialogue positively with the country's current authorities.

In recent days, the US has exerted heavy pressure on Sudan's

military to agree to a 90-day ceasefire, amid a government

offensive against paramilitaries, who have lost control

of several regions in North Kordofan.

For its part, Khartoum rejects such a truce and argues that such a

step would allow the regrouping of the so-called Rapid Support

Forces (RSF) ------- and interrupts the advances made by the

army, recently.

As an additional pressure mechanism, the US denied CST President

General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan a visa to attend the UN General

Assembly in New York ----------- if he does not first accept the

proposed truce.

The Government of Sudan also considered that any effort to

achieve peace cannot ignore the external interference and

illicit sources of support for the rebellion, which contribute

to prolonging the war.

Since mid-April 2023, this African nation has been mired in an

internal war, after power disputes between army chief Abdel

Fattah al-Burhan and the leader of the paramilitary RSF,

Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, have been ''fuelled.''

The fighting is keeping more than 11 million Sudanese out

of their homes, in what experts say is the world's largest

displacement crisis.

The US fuelled war also destroyed countless livelihoods,

plunging the country into a complex spiral of hunger

and death.

___________________________________

Senegal partners with Turkish

company ......for new refinery

Dakar, September 24th, 11:28am

(Prensa Latina)

With an investment that should exceed two billion dollars,

a refinery with a capacity of four million tons per year

will be built in Senegal, a government statement

said today.

The partnership is between the African Refining Society (SAR) and

the Turkish company Yamata. The signing of the memorandum

was attended by the Director General of the SAR --- Mamadou

Abib Diop & the General President of Yamata, Cengiz Duyar.

The signing was attended... by the Senegalese

head of state, Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye.

The project also provides for the modernization of the Mbao

refinery, currently in operation, with an investment of

between 300 and 500 million dollars.

The Presidency indicated that the new refinery will cover

the national needs of petroleum products and generate

surpluses for the subregional market.

According to the report, more than 15,000 direct jobs are

expected to emerge during the construction phase,

especially ------ in the fields of engineering,

maintenance and industrial logistics.

The Government of Senegal assured that this agreement

represents a stage in the implementation of the energy

sovereignty objective.

_________________________________________

Niger's Heavy Military Casualties - in
Clash ....with US-backed ''Islamists''

Niamey, September 24th, 10:46am

(Prensa Latina)

The government of Niger confirmed today - the death

of several soldiers in combat with alleged Islamists

that occurred in the region of Tillabéri, in the west

of the country.

Without specifying the number of fatalities, the Niamey

authorities described the casualties as "numerous"

in their army and pointed out that the clash took

place in the so-called three-border area, with

Mali and Burkina Faso.

According to the Ministry of Defence, the soldiers were

taking part in a tracking operation, after a cattle theft

last Tuesday in the region of Abala ---- and were

ambushed the day before, by a column of

heavily armed men.

According to the source, after the fighting, the alleged

Islamists retreated to the north of the country, where

their main bases are located.

It was also said that search and security

operations continue ----------- to locate

fugitive enemies.

At the end of last August, the military ruling Niger

suffered an attempted coup d'état, which was

the third military insubordination so far this

year, although the two previous incidents

also involved so-called Islamist groups.

The head of Niger's military junta, Gen. Abdourahmane Tiani,

came to power in a coup 3 years ago, but his government

has been constantly besieged by attacks by groups

affiliated with the so-called Islamic State and

al-Qaeda... both controlled by the US.

________________________________________

Polisario criticises Chile's support

for Moroccan ''autonomy'' plan

Algiers, September 24th, 10:24am

(Prensa Latina)

The Popular Front for the Liberation of Saqya el Hamra and

Rio de Oro (Polisario), criticized the Chilean government

for supporting the Moroccan autonomy plan for the

territory of Western Sahara, it was learned

here today.

The Polisario also stressed, in a statement issued the day before,

that in this way Chile departs from the principles of the Charter

of the United Nations and International Law.

The document also points out that this decision constitutes a

serious setback, with respect to Chile's historical defense of

democracy, human rights, the self-determination of peoples

and international law, as well as its support for processes

of decolonization & self-determination, in Latin America

and the Caribbean.

The Chilean ''government'' announced on Monday, its recognition

of Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara and said it

considers the autonomy proposal presented by Rabat

as a political solution that it described as fair and

mutually acceptable.

Finally, the Polisario urges the current government of Chile

to reconsider this position and regain coherence with its

international obligations, adding that decolonisation

cannot be replaced by annexation, nor can the

rights of peoples be subordinated to

ideological interests.

_______________________________________

The ''Authenticity and Modernity Party''

with a majority in Moroccan elections

Rabat, September 24th, 9:59am

(Prensa Latina)

With 97 seats, the Authenticity and Modernity Party (PAM)

is marching today at the head of the Moroccan legislative

elections, which this time ----- had a record abstention of

60 percent !!!

The PAM is part of the government coalition also made up

of the National Rally of Independents (RNI), in second

place with 66 seats, and the Istiqlal Party (PI), which

is also part of the coalition, with 65 seats reached,

out of a total of 395 deputies to Parliament.

The figures were confirmed by Moroccan Interior Minister Abdeluafi

Laftit, who added that the Islamist Justice and Development Party

(PJD) has so far won 54 seats -- regaining its influence in relation

to the 2021 legislative elections, when it only managed to ''win''

12 representatives.

Also winning seats, among others, were Popular Movement (MP),

with 29 seats; the Socialist Union of Popular Forces (USFP),

with 26; the Party of Progress and Socialism (PPS), with

19 and the Constitutional Union (UC), with 17.

Political observers highlight on Thursday the poor

popular turnout in the elections with only 38%,

most especially ....among young people.

On the other hand, they highlight that the PAM is a party closely

linked to the Moroccan monarchy and will possibly be the one

to lead the next government, it was founded in 2008 by

Fouad Ali El Himma, very close, since childhood, to

King Mohammed VI, and a royal advisor.

____________________________________________

Djibouti and Ethiopia linked by

petroleum products pipeline

Djibouti, September 24th, 9:55am

(Prensa Latina)

Djibouti and Ethiopia announced here today a Petroleum Products

Pipeline that will reduce logistics costs and delays, strengthen

energy security and improve the efficiency of the corridor

between the two countries.

The significant strategic investment to connect Damerjog in

Djibouti with Dewele in Ethiopia will be developed through

a partnership between Ethiopian Investment Holdings

and the Dangote Group, a Nigerian industrial

conglomerate, placing African investment

at the centre of a major cross-border

infrastructure initiative.

With storage facilities -- supporting the pipeline on both sides of the

border, the project is poised to establish a more integrated system

for the movement and management of refined petroleum products

between the two countries.

The infrastructure, which extends for about 120 kilometres, will

establish an integrated oil logistics system - that connects the

maritime reception and coastal storage facilities in Damerjog

with similar and distribution facilities .....in the interior of

Ethiopian territory.

At the Djiboutian terminal, the refined petroleum products will be

received, transferred to storage facilities and then transported

by a multi-product pipeline to Dewele... for further distribution

in Ethiopia.

Djiboutian President Ismail Omar Guelleh, Ethiopian Prime Minister

Abiy Ahmed and Dangote Group Chairman Aliko Dangote presided

over the groundbreaking ceremony.

Ahmed, on his X social network account, stressed that, more

than an oil pipeline, this -- is an investment in future growth,

regional integration, and a more secure shared economic

future, with African investment ...at its core.

_______________________________________________

Côte d'Ivoire boosts cocoa

and coffee ......research

Abidjan, September 24th, 9:33am

(Prensa Latina)

Côte d'Ivoire will have a Coffee and Cocoa Institute, a scientific

centre for the development of these crops, which today place

this country as one of the world's leading producers.

The Government spokesman, Amadou Coulibaly, during the

inauguration of the works, pointed out that the centre will

incorporate cutting-edge technologies ------ and will have

highly specialized personnel.

He explained that it will work in a network with national

universities, regional centres of excellence and

prominent international organizations.

He added that the main objective of the new institution is clear:

to recover the scientific initiative in coffee & cocoa to respond

effectively to the challenges of competitiveness - and master

the standards imposed by the world market.

Cocoa represents 17 percent of the Gross Domestic Product,

so the creation of this institute constitutes an important

strategic advance for the Ivorian economy.

The research complex will be built on the premises of the National

Centre for Agricultural Research station, in Divo, in the centre-

west of the country, a place that houses an important

biological heritage.

The official indicated that one of the first challenges that the

institution will have to face is the Swollen Shoot disease.

This virus attacks plantations and has caused a

significant drop in Ivorian cocoa production

in recent years.

__________________________________________

Ethiopia's WTO accession

process in the final stretch

Addis Ababa, September 23rd, 11:59am

(Prensa Latina)

Ethiopia's accession process to the World Trade Organization

(WTO) has entered its final stretch, the Ministry of Trade and

Regional Integration confirmed today.

After a long period of talks, the ministry stressed that successfully

concluding the negotiation and achieving full WTO membership

will reinforce the country's ongoing economic reforms and

boost sustainable economic growth.

He affirmed that this objective remains a high national priority,

based on two fundamental pillars: multilateral negotiations

and bilateral market access agreements.

In the multilateral framework - Ethiopia passed multiple rounds

of review, responding to queries on macroeconomic and trade

issues raised by WTO member states, the source said. These

actions allowed the country to move to the final stage of

drafting the Working Group's report, he added.

In parallel --- the country conducted bilateral market access

negotiations with 17 countries. In this regard, it formalized

agreements with 11 of them, while talks with the other

six .....continue through diplomatic channels.

According to the ministry, accession to the WTO will provide

Ethiopia with a modern and predictable trading system,

allowing the nation to safeguard its interests, and

actively participate in the legal and legislative

processes governing global trade.

With more predictable and non-discriminatory export

procedures, it will generate greater opportunities to

attract foreign direct investment, he said.

Membership will also expand market access, support the

transition from commodity exports to greater integration

into global value chains, and strengthen its institutional

capacity..... by harmonizing its national legislation with

international standards.

To ensure that the country derives the maximum benefit

from accession, the Government undertook extensive

preparatory work that included boosting the global

competitiveness of domestic manufacturing, and

agriculture, enacting key legal reforms, and also

raising local business communities' awareness.

Looking ahead --- the ministry outlined key priorities to quickly

conclude the accession process, including preparing for the

eighth meeting of the Working Group, finalizing bilateral

negotiations with the remaining six nations, and

resolving issues ------ that require high-level

government decisions.

_______________________________________

Morocco ....experiences

legislative election day

Rabat, September 23rd, 8:04am

(Prensa Latina)

Morocco is experiencing an election day today in which

more than 15 million people are called to the polls, to

renew 395 seats in the House of Representatives.

These elections will also serve to determine the composition

of the next government. According to the plan, some 40,700

polling stations and 3,750 central offices will operate.

28 political formations participate and among the members of

Parliament currently in office who presented their candidacy

for these elections are 227 parliamentarians.

The organic law on the Moroccan House of Representatives

states that of the total number of seats, 305 are elected in

local constituencies and 90 in regional constituencies.

Seats are reserved for women.

Regional seats are distributed among the different areas of the

country, while local electoral constituencies are created by a

decree - that fixes the number of seats allocated.

This distribution takes into account the demographic

balance, the territorial dimension, and homogeneity.

In accordance with the constitutional provisions, the party that

leads the electoral results must be responsible for forming a

government. The King will then appoint the future head of

government from among the members of the party that

came first.

________________________________________

Ethiopia's e-mobility policies,

are an inspiration for Africa

Addis Ababa, September 23rd, 5:59am

(Prensa Latina)

Ethiopia's electric mobility policies inspire other African

countries to review and develop their own frameworks

to accelerate green transport, the Ethiopian News

Agency said today.

Nigerian industry entrepreneur Damilola Odunlade-Akeju,

a participant in the Nordic-African Summit on Electric

Vehicles held on September 16 in this capital, told

the news outlet that the continent is increasingly

looking at Ethiopian political orientation when

evaluating measures to accelerate the

adoption of the strategy.

Odunlade-Akeju, also founder and CEO of DriveMe Mobility, noted

that Ethiopia's experience ---- demonstrates the importance of

government policies to create an environment conducive to

the expansion of green transport, at a time when other

African countries are considering how to structure

their own sectors.

"Government policies will drive the adoption and advancement

of electric mobility across Africa," he said, while stressing the

need for clear policy guidance - to build trust among private

sector actors.

He considered that regulatory certainty - incentivizes private

companies to invest in electric mobility by offering a clearer

framework for market growth - and long-term participation.

The combination of government guidance and private initiative is

essential to accelerate the transition, since adequate policies

ensure that the emerging sector develops in a coordinated

manner, he said.

The Nigerian entrepreneur cited the growing use of electric buses

in Addis Ababa as an example of how green mobility can be

integrated into public transport.

Fostering understanding and awareness of green transport, along

with supportive policies and mass commuting solutions, can

help African countries move forward in their transition to

electric mobility, he concluded.

On the other hand, Norwegian founder and e-mobility advisor Jan

Tore Gjøby also highlighted Ethiopia's emerging experience to

the local news agency and stated that the country should

develop solutions tailored to its own needs, while taking

into account their relevance to the African market as

a whole.

Gjøby underlined the need for clear roadmaps, requirements and

common standards as Addis Ababa expands electric mobility.

In its view, coordinated systems are needed to ensure that

electric vehicles, charging infrastructure and electricity

grids ....work together effectively.

________________________________________

Ethiopia to form Government

and Parliament on 5 October

Addis Ababa, September 23rd, 4:37am

(Prensa Latina)

Ethiopia... will form its government for a five-year term

after electing the House of People's Representatives

(Parliament) on October 5th, the president of the

legislative body, Tagesse Chafo, said today.

These acts will mark the beginning of the next legislature

and the constitution of the federal executive branch --- in

accordance with the country's constitutional framework

...after the conclusion of the Seventh General Elections

held on June 1, Chafo said.

He recalled that 42 political parties, 10,438 candidates and

more than 54 million voters participated in the elections,

while describing the electoral process as peaceful,

democratic, fair and credible.

Citing Article 50 (3) of the Constitution, the President noted that the

House of People's Representatives --- is the supreme organ of the

federal government and is accountable to the Ethiopian people.

Meanwhile, he added, Article 58 (2) establishes that the mandate of

Parliament begins on the Monday of the last week of September.

Under Article 56 of the Constitution, the political party or coalition

that wins the majority of seats in the House organizes and directs

the executive branch of the federal government, he said.

Consequently, the government will be constituted for the new

five-year term and the legislative body will begin its sessions

on October 5, 2026.

Chafo affirmed the completion - of all the

necessary preparations for such events.

_______________________________________

Cuba congratulates Mali on

the 66th anniversary of

its independence

Havana, September 22nd, 9:46am

(Prensa Latina)

Cuba congratulated the Republic of Mali today on the occasion of

the 66th anniversary of the proclamation of its independence on

September 22, 1960.

A message from the Foreign Ministry of the Caribbean nation from

Havana described the West African nation as "sisterly", while

signing, "we ratify the will to strengthen the traditional

relations of friendship and cooperation that unite

both countries".

Diplomatic relations between Mali and Cuba - were established on

December 18, 1960, just two months after Malian independence

from French colonialism was proclaimed. They are based on

deep historical bonds of friendship and respect.

Last June, the President of the National Transitional Council

(CNT), Malick Diaw, received the Cuban Ambassador to Mali,

Viviana Hernández, in a first audience marked by cordiality

and fraternity.

During the meeting, both sides underlined --- the ties of sincere

friendship and fruitful cooperation between the two countries

in the fields of health, education, culture and human

resources training, developed over almost 66

years of uninterrupted diplomatic relations.

Mali's solidarity with the Cuban people has also been

demonstrated and sustained, one of the most

striking examples of which ---- is its vote

against the economic, commercial

and financial blockade ----
imposed by the US.

_____________________________________

Kenyan military plant 20,000 trees

Nairobi, September 22nd, 8:47am

(Prensa Latina)

Some 20,000 trees were planted in Kenya in a reforestation

operation promoted by the Defence Forces (KDF), a

statement from the military command said today.

With this operation, carried out in Kiambu County, the military,

members of the Kenyan Army's Mechanical and Electrical

Engineer Corps, reaffirm their commitment to climate

resilience .......and landscape restoration, the

text highlighted.

This joint initiative reflects the expansion of the scope of the KDF's

Environmental Soldier program, an internal framework aimed at

integrating environmental management into the day-to-day

activities of military personnel, they noted.

The military commanders responsible for the operation stressed

that environmental protection ---- is an essential element for

national and community security.

The representative of the Green of Africa Foundation, Jedidah

Wanyekis, highlighted the collaboration with KDF to reverse

the trend of environmental degradation in Kenya and urged

long-lasting cooperation between state institutions, civil

society and local communities.

_________________________________________

Electoral campaigns
close in Morocco

Rabat. September 22nd, 8:32am

(Prensa Latina)

The electoral campaigns culminate today in Morocco, a day before

the call to the polls - to choose the deputies to occupy the 395

seats in the House of Representatives.

These elections will also serve to determine

the composition of the next government.

The organic law on the Moroccan House of Representatives

states that of the total number of seats, 305 are elected in

local constituencies and 90 in regional constituencies.

Regional seats ...are distributed among the different areas of the

country, while local electoral constituencies, are created by a

decree establishing the number of seats allocated to each.

This distribution takes into account the demographic balance,

the territorial dimension and the homogeneity of its

geographical scope.

In accordance with the constitutional provisions, the party that

leads the electoral results must be responsible for forming a

government. The King will then appoint the future head of

government from among the members of the party

that came first.

For these elections, 1,850 lists of candidacies have been presented

throughout the country, with a total of 7,288 candidacies, which

represents an average of more than 18 candidacies per seat,

according to data from the Ministry of the Interior.

28 political formations participate and among the members of

Parliament currently in office who presented their candidacy

for these elections, are 227 parliamentarians.

________________________________________________

Ethiopia and Finland agreed

to strengthen bilateral ties

Addis Ababa, September 22nd, 4:15am

(Prensa Latina)

The presidents of Ethiopia, Taye Atske-Selassie, and Finland,

Alexander Stubb, agreed to further strengthen their bilateral

relationship and deepen collaboration on issues of common

interest in the regional and multilateral spheres, the Fana

Media Corporation reported today.

Selassie and Stubb met on the sidelines of the 81st session

of the U.N. General Assembly in New York, the source said.

Both leaders agreed to continue the momentum of the relationship

between Ethiopia and Finland and to continue collaborating on

issues of shared interest in regional and multilateral forums.

Last June, Addis Ababa and Helsinki held the second Political

Consultation in Helsinki, during which... they reviewed the

current state of relations and explored ways to deepen

cooperation in the political, economic, trade,

education and climate-related sectors.

The meeting was co-chaired by the Ethiopian Foreign Ministry's

Director General for US and European Affairs, Meles Alem, and

the Finnish Undersecretary of State for Foreign Affairs ----

Outi Holopainen.

Both sides stressed the value of regular political consultations and

their shared commitment to further strengthen the long-standing

partnership between Ethiopia and Finland.

______________________________________________________

Migrants' Rights Focus AU-IOM

Dialogue at the United Nations

Addis Ababa, September 22nd, 3:31am

(Prensa Latina)

The African Union (AU) Commission and the International

Organization for Migration (IOM) analyzed the protection

of migrants' rights, and the legal channels for such

displacements, an official source reported today.

AU Commission Chair, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf.. and IOM Director

General, Amy Pope, discussed these issues on the sidelines of

the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in

New York, a statement revealed.

Youssouf stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation

between the two sides - to foster safe, orderly and regular

migration, while promoting the meaningful participation

of the African diaspora in development & investment

on the continent.

The latter, he added, includes skills development, knowledge

transfers and the retention of critical capacities in Africa.

He also highlighted the role of the African Continental Free Trade

Area in advancing regional economic integration, as well as

facilitating the mobility of labour and skills across

the continent.

At the conclusion of the meeting, they reaffirmed their shared

commitment to protect the rights and dignity of migrants and

to strengthen international cooperation on migration.

___________________________________________________

Senegal --------- establishes financial

agreements for urban development

Dakar, September 21st, 12:34pm

(Prensa Latina)

Senegal is advancing urban development projects for which it

established financial agreements with companies from Italy

and France, a statement by the Ministry of Urban Planning,

Territorial Collectivities and Territorial Planning ----

announced today.

The text noted -- that the minister of that portfolio, Moussa Bala

Fofana, led a mission from September 9 to 15, 2026 in order to

establish new sources of financing and strengthen alliances

for urban projects in Senegal.

The investment agreement signed with the IDA International Group

and the THESAN Foundation is for 3.5 billion euros over 7 years.

As planned, a first pilot project valued at 50 million euros will

be launched immediately, the entity said.

In France, the Senegalese delegation exchanged with the Auchan

group in Villeneuve-d'Ascq and also held talks with the company

Nhood and Projex, with whom they focused on urban renewal,

the transformation of peripheral areas, new cities and other

projects that combine housing, shops and services.

The report detailed that teams from several of these groups

are expected to travel to Senegal to identify possibilities

for collaboration and land that can host future projects.

The Senegalese delegation also exchanged with the groups

participating in the Thiès eco-neighbourhood project

---- which covers an area of 1,600 hectares and

foresees, in a first phase, the construction

of 2,000 homes, from January 2027,

he reported.

For Minister Bala Fofana, the policy he follows should make it

possible to better direct investments towards projects that

strengthen national capacities in the sectors of urban

planning, construction and spatial planning.

_____________________________________________

African body and Qatar

discuss cooperation

at UN

UN, September 21st, 12:12pm

(Prensa Latina)

The executive secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on

Development (IGAD), Workneh Gebeyehu -- and the Minister of

State for Foreign Affairs of Qatar, Soltan bin Saad Al Moraikhi,

spoke here today, about regional cooperation, peace.....

and security.

At the dialogue, on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United

Nations General Assembly, they agreed to deepen their bilateral

cooperation to foster greater stability and shared prosperity in

the IGAD region and the Middle East.

Gebeyehu stressed on his account on the social network X

that "the IGAD region and the Middle East share more than

geography; Our peace, security and prosperity ------ are

deeply interconnected."

At the head of the African body's delegation participating in the UN

General Assembly, his agenda includes meetings with member

states, the multilateral organization, the African Union,

development partners and international institutions,

in order to strengthen cooperation ------ in favour of

climate stability & resilience in the Horn of Africa.

In parallel, it will promote greater investment in early warning

systems, anticipatory action and regional preparedness - to

protect lives and livelihoods from El Niño and increasingly

frequent extreme weather events.

At a time when conflicts, climate impacts and humanitarian crises

are testing the international system, IGAD's executive secretary

will advocate a renewed commitment to a multilateralism that

is effective ...according to official sources.

__________________________________________________

AU and Algeria discuss continental issues

.....in the framework of the UN Assembly

UN, September 21st, 8:43am

(Prensa Latina)

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

Ali Youssouf, spoke today - with the Minister of Foreign Affairs

and the National Community Abroad of Algeria, Ahmed Attaf,

on continental peace and security.

The two sides, on the sidelines of the 81st session of the

United Nations General Assembly, exchanged views on

peace and security in the Sahel.

In that regard, Youssouf praised Algeria's important role

in promoting stability, including through the AU Peace

and Security Council.

For his part, Attaf reported on the tenth edition of Amnesty Month

in Africa, held in Algiers on 14 and 15 September, which focused

on disarmament and efforts to curb the illicit proliferation of

small arms and light weapons, landmines - and explosive

remnants of war.

They reaffirmed the importance of strengthening African

cooperation and collective action to promote peace

and stability .......across the continent.

______________________________________________

Oman and Angola call for

dialogue and expand

cooperation

Muscat, September 19th, 1:54am

(Prensa Latina)

Oman and Angola have called for an immediate ceasefire in conflicts

in Africa, the Middle East and Eastern Europe ....while agreeing to

expand their bilateral cooperation in the economic, energy
and diplomatic sectors, the Omani press reported today.

The position was set out in a joint statement released after the

state visit made by the Sultan of Oman, Haitham bin Tariq, to

Angola on 17 and 18 September, at the invitation of

President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço.

During their talks in Luanda, the two leaders expressed concern

about the ongoing conflicts in Africa, the Middle East & Eastern

Europe, called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and

urged the parties involved - to resort to dialogue to reach

lasting solutions.

On the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, Lourenço expressed

solidarity with the affected countries and spoke out for the

restoration of normality, in addition to highlighting Oman's

efforts to lower tensions & promote a negotiated solution.

On Palestine, the two heads of State reaffirmed their support

for the right of peoples to self-determination, the principle

of peaceful coexistence and United Nations resolutions,

and condemned all human rights violations and

indiscriminate attacks against civilians.

They also defended the primacy of international law,

respect for the sovereignty of States ------- and

non-interference in their internal affairs.

On the bilateral level, Haitham bin Tariq and Lourenço agreed

to deepen relations between Muscat & Luanda and explore

new opportunities -- in diplomacy, oil, energy, mineral

resources, finance, tourism, agriculture, fisheries,

transport, logistics... and housing.

The leaders also witnessed the exchange of 10 legal instruments

of cooperation and three memorandums of understanding

between state-owned enterprises.

The two sides also agreed to hold regular political consultations to

assess the implementation of commitments ...and to hold the next

round of such meetings in Muscat ---- together with the inaugural

session of the bilateral commission, on a date to be set

through diplomatic channels.

The Omani sultan concluded his two-day state visit to Angola on

Friday and, before leaving, thanked Lourenço for the reception

given to his delegation and highlighted the results achieved

to strengthen the partnership between the two countries.

_______________________________________________

Conference in Africa focusses ----- on

Digital psychiatry and mental health

Addis Ababa, September 19th, 12:25am

(Prensa Latina)

African psychiatrists analyze today in Ethiopia how artificial

intelligence (AI) and digital psychiatry can expand access

to quality mental health care on the continent.

The joint conference of the associations of Psychiatrists of

Ethiopia and the African Association of Psychiatrists is

being held on September 18 and 19 under the theme:

"Digital psychiatry in Africa: leveraging AI for

accessible and quality mental health care",

at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum

in this capital.

Ethiopian Health Minister, Mekdes Daba, highlighted that AI

and digital psychiatry ..are increasingly important tools for

reaching patients and responding to the growing demand

for mental health services.

Daba underscored --- the importance of adopting these tools

while maintaining technological sovereignty in the sector,

and advocated for the use of adaptive sciences that

respond to Africa's specific needs.

In his opinion, the time has come to take advantage

of innovative technologies to improve health care

on the continent.

For his part, the president of the Ethiopian Association of

Psychiatrists, Atalay Alem, described the theme of the

conference as timely and reaffirmed the commitment

to collaborate with the Ministry of Health and other

stakeholders to boost mental health care.

Alem highlighted the growth of the group to reach

194 members ---- thanks to the continuous

professional training carried out

in recent years.

Likewise, he mentioned the importance of collaboration

with continental, & international medical associations,

indicating that the Association strengthens alliances

to promote the advancement of the profession.

He emphasized the need for stronger laws, policies and

guidelines to regulate the development & deployment

of ......artificial intelligence and digital psychiatry -

across Africa.

The president of the African Association of Psychiatrists,

Vuyiso Talatala, expressed his gratitude to the Ethiopian

Association --- for its contributions to the continental

organization and for hosting the conference.

Through a video message, Talatala pointed out that the

meeting offers an important platform for specialists to

reinforce research and exchange ideas, experiences

and knowledge.

He expressed hope that it would also lead to the identification

of practical ways to apply artificial intelligence to psychiatry

and to expand access to mental health care across Africa.

_______________________________________________________

Regional El Niño Forum Sets

Weekly Agenda in Ethiopia

Addis Ababa, September 19th, 12:04am

(Prensa Latina)

The High-Level Regional Forum on preparedness for the El Niño

phenomenon in the Horn of Africa, a platform that discussed

preparedness measures and anticipatory action, marked

the week that ends today in Ethiopia.

The event convened by the Intergovernmental Authority on

Development (IGAD) was held from 15 to 17 September to

assess preparedness at the national and regional levels,

identify risks and priority work, plus strengthen cross-

border coordination and promote early financing.

He convened ministers, government representatives, technical

experts and partners to agree on the measures needed to

protect vulnerable communities, livelihoods and critical

infrastructure from el Nino's expected impacts.

The forum included on its final day - a ministerial segment that

endorsed the IGAD Ministerial Call to Action and the Regional

Technical Report on Preparedness and Anticipatory Action,

thereby strengthening collective action .......to move from

foresight - to action.

It was reported during the meeting that the Horn of Africa faces

the possibility of an intense El Niño episode during the season

from October to December 2026, with an increased probability

of abundant rainfall and the associated risks of torrential

rains and flooding in various areas of the region.

Faced with this scenario, Ethiopia's Deputy Commissioner for

Disaster Risk Management, Aydrus Hassan, pointed out that

the possible impacts of the weather phenomenon require

political leadership, national ownership --------- and

regional solidarity.

Hassan said they also require timely funding

and anticipatory measures that go beyond

technical readiness.

He said Ethiopia is strengthening its disaster risk management

system to make it more multisectoral, anticipatory, impact-

based and able to address multiple hazards.

He explained that it integrates monitoring, forecasting,

impact assessment, early warning, preparedness,

anticipatory action, and response.

The country is also strengthening its national self-sufficiency,

including through its Disaster Risk Response Fund, which

provides predictable funding for disaster preparedness,

early warning, anticipatory action, response, and

resilience building.

At the regional level --- IGAD and its Centre for Climate

Prediction and Application are working to strengthen

cross-border information exchanges, plus joint risk

analyses, interoperable early warning systems,

and coordinated anticipatory action, he said.

He considered these efforts important given the risks

affecting shared watersheds, livestock corridors,

markets and population movements.

The Ethiopian deputy commissioner urged the African body's

member states to ensure the availability of funding before

disasters occur and to translate the high-level regional

call to action ------ into concrete commitments.

He added that international assistance should

complement national leadership - rather than

replace it.

He further underscored the need to link forecasts,

activation mechanisms, financing and action to

protect lives, livelihoods and achievements.

The World Meteorological Organization predicts that

the 2026 El Niño phenomenon will become a very

intense, potentially historic event, which will

peak at the end of the year and last.......

until 2027.

__________________________________________

About 50 dead in Nigeria.... due to

possible intake of methyl alcohol

Abuja, September 17th, 10:38am

(Prensa Latina)

The Nigerian authorities confirmed today that some 50

deaths and more than a hundred affected are the

result of a collective poisoning, apparently by

the ingestion of methyl alcohol, in the

south of the country.

Ondo state health commissioner Banji Ajaka announced

that a total of more than 180 people are believed to be

affected, in areas of the towns of Odigbo and Irele.

Meanwhile, police said 15 individuals were arrested in

connection with the tragedy and in connection with

the illegal production of beverages, some

suspected of using methanol.

In addition, methanol, also known as methyl alcohol, is

a substance used in various industrial processes,

including solvents and fuels but is not suitable

for human consumption - specialists pointed

out here on Thursday - because it is highly

toxic, with irreversible damage to health.

___________________________________________

Zimbabwe Anti-Sanctions Trust

Supports BRICS Against

Cuba Blockade

Harare, September 17th, 8:47am

(Prensa Latina)

The Zimbabwe Anti-Sanctions Trust (ZAST) today highlighted

the inclusion of the pronouncement against the US blockade

against Cuba in the Declaration of the BRICS Summit held

in New Delhi, India, on September 12.

ZAST said it welcomes and strongly supports the position

expressed by the BRICS leaders with deep concern over

the tightening of encirclement measures against the

Caribbean island and the documented effects
on its economy, energy supply and

humanitarian situation.

According to the Zimbabwe Anti-Sanctions Trust, the decision

to insist on the need - to end economic, trade and financial

provisions within the framework of the broader principles

of sovereign equality, international law, multilateralism

and the right to development - is significant.

According to the demonstration, most countries express

opposition to unilateral and secondary sanctions

because of their potential consequences for

human rights, health and food security.

As an organization created to defend against the adverse

effects of sanctions on Zimbabwe and to promote

international solidarity against unilateral

coercive measures, ZAST expressed

its solidarity with the people and

Government of Cuba.

At the same time, he highlighted the position of the BRICS

(economic and trade association of emerging economies

(in principle Brazil, Russia, India, China & South Africa)

to support Latin America and the Caribbean as a zone

of peace based on mutual respect, the peaceful

settlement of disputes and non-interference.

The New Delhi Declaration represents an important

reaffirmation of the principle that international

economic relations --- should promote

development and cooperation.

ZAST calls on governments, civil society organizations,

academics, and people's organizations across Africa

and the Global South.... to continue a constructive

dialogue -- on the humanitarian and development

consequences of unilateral coercive measures.

We also encourage greater South-South cooperation,

solidarity and collective defence in favour of a just

and representative international system, with the

immediate end of the economic, commercial, &

financial embargo imposed by Washington on

Cuba............... for more than six decades.

___________________________________________

Ethiopia and CargoAi partnership

digitizes air cargo operations

Addis Ababa, September 17th, 7:30am

(Prensa Latina)

Ethiopian Cargo and Logistics Services and CargoAi, a leading

company in vertical AI (artificial intelligence) ...for the airline

sector, partnered to further enhance the digital operations

of the African company, it was announced today.

A statement from Ethiopian Airlines Group noted that this

collaboration marks an important milestone in Ethiopia

Cargo's digital roadmap, enabling the airline to offer

real-time fare visibility and electronic booking

capabilities to freight forwarders around

the world ........through CargoAi's

advanced platform.

Thanks to this integration, more than 30,000 freight forwarders

will gain seamless access to global freight capacity and rates,

both via the digital enabler marketplace and through direct

connections to major transport management systems.

This ensures greater visibility and automation, as well as

enabling access to multiple booking environments

across the Ethiopian freight service network.

Advert ends: fees placed.

_______________________________________________

Ethiopia presents vision

on nuclear science at

IAEA conference

Addis Ababa, September 17th, 6:54am

(Prensa Latina)

Ethiopia.... laid out its vision to harness nuclear science and

technology, as part of its national transformation agenda,

during the 70th General Conference of the International

Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Fana Media Corporation

reported today.

The meeting, scheduled for September 14 to 18 in Vienna,

Austria, brings together IAEA member states to promote

cooperation in the areas of safety and security,

safeguards and peaceful applications,

among unspecified ''others''.

Ethiopia's Deputy Permanent Representative to the United

Nations Office & other international agencies in Geneva,

Hailesilassie Suba, detailed the government's vision &

plans for the development and peaceful application

of nuclear energy.

Suba also presented the political, legal and institutional

measures underway to support the sector.

He highlighted the role of nuclear science and technology

in strengthening the African nation's energy security and

expanding its contribution to health care, agriculture,

industry and scientific research.

He reaffirmed the commitment to ensure that nuclear

technology is developed and applied safely, and

exclusively for peaceful purposes, while

strengthening cooperation with the

IAEA and other stakeholders.

During the conference, the Ethiopian delegation held

discussions with the Acting Director of the agency's

Africa Division, Gashaw Gebeyehu, and officials

from the Office of Legal Affairs, focusing on

ways to further strengthen cooperation.

Consultations are expected to continue in Addis Ababa

and Vienna to advance the implementation of the

agreed areas of collaboration.

Ethiopia's participation in the conference reflects its

continued commitment to international nuclear

cooperation, while promoting its national

priorities in science, technology,

energy and development.

___________________________

China urges strengthening

defense cooperation

with Africa

Beijing, September 17th, 4:46am

(Prensa Latina)

China today called for strengthening defense cooperation

with Africa, deepening strategic coordination and

improving exchange mechanisms at all levels.

In a speech at the 4th China-Africa Peace and Security

Forum in Beijing, Defense Minister Dong Jun said this

year.. is the 70th anniversary of the establishment

of diplomatic relations between Beijing and the

countries of the African continent.

The minister noted that both sides remained united in

the struggle against imperialism and colonialism and

cooperate ---- to promote peace and development.

According to Dong, these efforts made it possible

to establish a path of defense cooperation,

characterized by mutual support

and shared security.

He affirmed..... that China-Africa security cooperation

benefits both sides and contributes to world stability.

In this regard, he urged preserving traditional friendship

and promoting long-term cooperation based on equality

and mutual benefit.

Dong noted that the Chinese military is willing to work

with African countries to strengthen strategic

coordination and improve exchange

mechanisms at all levels.

He also proposed deepening regional cooperation in

maritime security & enhancing defense capabilities

in emerging areas.

He also called for more concrete results to contribute

to building a China-Africa community with a shared

future for the new era.

According to a report by the Xinhua news agency,

the African representatives participating in the

forum considered China to be an important

partner for the countries of the continent

and expressed appreciation for its

assistance and support in the

development of its defense

and military capabilities.

The forum was attended by defense officials and

military representatives from the African Union

and 41 countries of the continent, as well as

diplomatic envoys accredited to China.

On the subject, the Chinese Minister of Defense

called on Tuesday to strengthen international

cooperation in security matters during the

opening of the 13th Xiangshan Forum in

Beijing, which brings together

representatives of over

100 countries.

_________________________

The President of South Africa.... has

temporarily canceled public events

due to health reasons

September 16th, 9:18pm

(Izvestia.ru)

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has temporarily withdrawn

from public events due to health problems. The disease manifested

itself after the head of state returned from the BRICS summit held

in India. The information was published tonight.

«The Presidential Administration reports that ------- due to illness,

President Ramaphosa is currently exempt from participating in

public events. President Ramaphosa, who returned from the

BRICS summit in India on Monday, was recommended rest

and recovery by his medical team», —as written in a

statement from the Office of the President of South

Africa on the social network X.

However, the office did not disclose the nature of the South African

leader’s illness. The President of South Africa also asked relevant

ministers to represent it at planned public events.... if possible.

Ramaphosa reported on September 13, that the information

announced by Russian president Vladimir Putin, impressed

upon the South African side hope for resolving the conflict

in Ukraine. It is noted -- that Putin spoke about various

processes involving different parties...... in order to

achieve peace.

They held a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the BRICS
summit in New Delhi. The Russian leader emphasized ---
that Moscow is grateful to South Africa for supporting
its initiatives at the UN.

The countries will also work on the issue of
increasing trade turnover, Putin added.

_____________________________________________

Electric mobility must be a driver

of development ------- in Africa

Addis Ababa, September 16th, 11:15am

(Prensa Latina)

Africa must ensure that its transition to electric mobility becomes

an engine of industrial development, instead of transforming the

continent into just another market for imported products, an

official source urged today.

Ethiopia's Minister of Transport and Logistics, Alemu Sime, opening

the Nordic-African Summit on Electric Vehicles 2026, added that

the continent should participate in the entire electric mobility

value chain by strengthening their assembly and

manufacturing - locally.

Sime, in this regard, called for developing engineering and software

capabilities, investing in research and development, integrating

local supply chains and establishing battery management,

second life and recycling systems.

"The future of African electric mobility must be built for, built by,

and owned by Africa's institutions, youth, and communities,"

he stressed.

He considered that Ethiopia's green transformation lays a solid

foundation .......for the country's transition to electric mobility.

Local renewable energy potential can also contribute to reducing

dependence on imported petroleum products, improving urban

air quality, creating green industries and jobs, and supporting

its climate commitments, he said.

However, he explained that Ethiopia's transition to electric mobility

must go beyond simply increasing the number of electric vehicles.

He pointed out --- that financing will be essential, since investments

are required not only in means, but also in charging infrastructure,

the modernization of the electricity grid, digital platforms,

manufacturing, maintenance and training.

"Public resources alone will not be enough," he said, calling

for partnerships between governments, development

finance institutions, commercial banks, investors

and industry, including the use of patient

capital and appropriate risk-

sharing mechanisms.

The Ethiopian minister also called on African countries to establish

compatible standards, charging systems, payment platforms and

communication technologies to facilitate cross-border mobility,

as well as trade and investment at the regional level.

The Nordic-African Summit on Electric Vehicles, which began in

Oslo last May -- and whose next stage takes place in Ethiopia,

links the continent's transition to technology & investment

from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden,

focusing on infrastructure, financing, regional

integration, and manufacturing, among

others which I..... will not detail.

It brings together... governments from both sides, industry leaders,

utilities, investors, development finance institutions, researchers

and technology providers.... to drive electric mobility in Africa.

_________________________________________________________________

Council of Ministers of African body

emphasizes --------- regional unity

Djibouti, September 16th, 10:50am

(Prensa Latina)

The challenges facing the Horn of Africa require a regional

response, and no member state can isolate itself from the

instability of a neighbouring country to advance peace,

governance and resilience, IGAD said today.

The Final Declaration of the 74th Extraordinary Session of the

Council of Ministers of the Intergovernmental Authority

(IGAD), held the day before - welcomed Sudan's

resumption of its membership in the African

body last February, the re-opening of the

organisation's headquarters and other

rapprochement actions promoted

by Djibouti.

The text acknowledged ---- that five of the seven member
states (Djibouti, Ethiopia, S. Sudan, Kenya and Somalia)
had ratified the 2023 IGAD Treaty and deposited their
revalidation instruments ....with the executive
secretary, Workneh Gebeyehu..... in his
capacity as the legally designated
depositary.

In this way, the two-thirds threshold necessary for the entry into

force of the Treaty was reached, replacing the Agreement by

which the African entity was established in 1996.

Gebeyehu will notify its entry into force.

The Council of Ministers expressed its concern about the situation

outside the region, such as the war in Gaza, tensions in the Middle

East and the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

He underlined its direct impact through disruptions in shipping,

rising fuel and food prices, reduced humanitarian funding,

and the weakening of multilateral consensus precisely

when the region needs sustained and coordinated

international support.

The Declaration further mentioned the humanitarian situation in

the region, where an estimated 49 million people are acutely

food insecure and the number of internally displaced

persons - exceeds 19 million.

He warned about the current situation in Sudan, where almost

19.5 million people suffer from crisis levels of hunger and

ome 825,000 children under five years of age are

expected to suffer from severe acute

malnutrition in 2026, while nearly

nine million people will continue

being displaced by the conflict.

He also warned of profound geopolitical and security changes in

the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden ---- driven by intensifying strategic

competition, conflict, instability in coastal areas ......a growing

external military presence & threats to commercial shipping.

He stated that these dynamics directly affect the peace, security

and economic interests of IGAD member states. He expressed

concern about the resurgence of piracy off the coast of

Somalia and in the Gulf of Aden.

He expressed his deep gratitude to President Ismaïl Omar

Guelleh, the Government and the people of Djibouti for

hosting the ministerial meeting, as well as for the

four decades of constant support as the H.Q.

of the secretariat of the regional entity

since its foundation in 1986.

______________________________

Mali and Algeria outline route

for ..their joint collaboration

Bamako, September 15th, 11:06am

(Prensa Latina)

Mali and Algeria are working today to define a roadmap that will

promote bilateral cooperation projects, as part of the official

visit to Bamako by Algerian Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb.

Mali's Prime Minister Abdoulaye Maïga received Ghrieb the day

before, at the beginning of the work of the delegations that

both of them are chairing and that are engaged in defining

priority sectors -------- to advance the collaboration plan

between both nations.

The agenda emanating from this joint work should be presented

to the leaders of both countries during the next official visit of

President Assimi Goïta to Algeria, the date of which is yet to

be determined.

The Algerian leader described this exchange of visits as "a new

stage" in the historic relations between Algiers and Bamako,

while expressing his country's willingness to reactivate

institutional cooperation mechanisms, in particular

the Algerian-Malian Grand Joint Commission.

He pointed out that work is being done to update the

legal framework.... that regulates bilateral relations.

According to experts, both nations could make progress on projects

- that include the trans-Saharan highway and the African fibre optic

backbone network and considered that these two infrastructures

are intended to facilitate exchanges between Algeria and the

Sahel countries.

They mentioned the branch road that connects Bamako with

Tamanrasset and extends over about 2,500 kilometres, of

this work ....there are about 400 kilometres to be built.

These infrastructures could offer Mali, a landlocked country,

greater access to Algerian ports and promote trade with

North Africa, they said.

Ghrieb's visit follows the normalisation that began in July this year

with the return of ambassadors and the reopening of airspace

between the two countries.

_______________________________________________

World Athletics Championships ----

will be in Africa for the first time

Budapest, September 15th, 8:43am

(Prensa Latina)

The 2029 World Outdoor Athletics Championships will be held in

Nairobi, the International Federation of the discipline (World

Athletics) announced today.

The capital of Kenya beat London, Rome and Munich in the votes,

and will become the first city in Africa to host this event,

considered the third most watched globally after the

Olympic Games and the World Cup.

In the case of the German city, it will have the consolation of being

the scene of the 2031 World Championships, according to

the athletics governing body ...after a meeting of

its council in Budapest.

The president of World Athletics, the British Sebastian Coe,

declared at a press conference that it was not an easy

decision for the Council because all the candidacies

were outstanding.

Bringing our championships to Africa for the first time

will be historic. Nairobi has submitted a convincing

and emotional bid, he stressed

In this way, the main athletic event on the planet can be seen live

in Asia, Africa and Europe in its next three editions, since next

year's ....will be held in Beijing.

It was important that the World Cup came to Africa when we had

the right host, the right bid and the right circumstances, he said.

Kenya failed in its bid for 2025, but had already hosted the 2007

ecumenical cross-country events in Mombasa, the U-18 World

Cup in 2017 and the U-20 World Cup in 2021, the latter two

in Nairobi.

Coe commented that after what happened in its previous attempt,

the African organizing team returned with a more solid proposal

and a renovated Kasarani Stadium.

The world will come to a country where running is more than

a competition. It is our national history, and where every

generation believes that the next world champion can

emerge from Kenya, said Kenyan head of the sport,

Salim Mvurya.

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