Rhondda Records logo 2
 
Rhondda Records Home Page
 
 
Peace Page
A Page from the Rhondda dedicated to Peace
 
 
One Union
A Page to help unity among working people
 
 
The Miners' Next Step and Donbass news
A pamphlet,a song and a future for loving people everywhere
 
 
Rhondda Records Cartoon Page
A page to help the Rhondda laugh
 
 
Quotations Page
Words said in truth or jest
 
 
Your Health Page
A page to help your health - be positive !
 
 
Africa Page
Africa - news, progress, events
 
 
genuine leftwing Mass events Page
Some activities you just might like to aid Peace
 
 
Discussion Page
Let's open up and share (communicate)
 
 
Poisoning Earth and our terrible fate, if, if, if
Human degradation ruining our beautiful planet
 
 
Siarad Gwmraeg? A page for Welsh patriots
Wales News and our Welsh language News
 
 
Poetry and Literature in Wales & the World, Page
Poetry and Literature in Wales
 
 
Rhondda Records' Top Recommended Books Page
Great Thinkers point the way forward
 
 
FOLK REVOLUTION
A Page for those who DO care about true folk
 
 
Richard Gould's Page
Move over Titch Gwilym and Micky Gee, Richard Gould IS the new Welsh virtuoso
 
 
Efran Kaye's Page
The master of music, Efran Kaye is here!
 
 
Glynbyerful Male (voice) Choir's Very Own Page
a choir from all the Glyns of the Rhondda for nutters
 
 
Rhondda History Page
A page to help those who want to know the Rhonddas past
 
 
Penrhys, Rhondda Page
A page telling the story of a unique magical village - Penrhys, in the Rhondda !
 
 
Poet's Page
music and opinion from Wales' wandering poet.
 
 

Africa Page

Focus on Mother Africa, news and events

A ''rousing'' dance song 
for everyone who loves
Mother Africa


 
 
 
President of Ethiopia visited 
development projects
 in Bahir Dar
June 16th, 9:12am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Ethiopian President Taye Atske-Selassie and senior 
government officials, today, visited important 
development projects in the city of Bahir 
Dar, in the northern Amhara region.
 
Selassie and the delegation inspected infrastructure 
initiatives, including the newly built bridge over the 
Abay River and the corridor around Lake Tana, 
the latter as part of an urban growth plan 
aimed at further integrating that 
reservoir with the city, Fana 
Broadcaster reported.
 
By improving accessibility in five key directions 
around the lake, the project expands social 
and economic opportunities.
 
The new bridge, one of the city's most important 
infrastructure achievements, significantly aids 
traffic flows, while enhancing Bahir Dar's 
tourist appeal and... supporting its 
broader development goals.
 

_________________________


 
Most news outlets are ignoring Africa -
as the war on Iran, etc, is crowding
out other news.... so...... here's an
article to tickle Africa's interest.

Enjoy!
 
Why African Nations Should
Lean Towards.... BRICS
by Kungu Al-Mahadi Adam
 
In recent years, the BRICS group—Brazil, Russia, India, China, 
and South Africa—has risen as a formidable player in global 
affairs, positioning itself as an alternative to the Western-
dominated geopolitical order, led by the United States.
 
With Donald Trump’s re-election as U.S. President, tensions 
between the U.S. and BRICS have intensified. Trump has 
openly criticized BRICS --- threatening tariffs and 
economic measures, if these nations pursue 
initiatives like a new currency to challenge
 the dominance of the U.S. dollar.
 
This hostility underscores the U.S. perception of BRICS, as 
a threat, particularly as a source of geopolitical power for 
developing countries ---- including those in Africa. In this 
context, African nations have a compelling opportunity 
to lean more towards BRICS.... during Trump’s time.
 
By doing so, they can unlock economic opportunities, assert 
their political sovereignty, push for reforms in global 
governance, diversify their international 
partnerships, and pursue shared 
development goals.
 
Economic Opportunities
 
A primary reason for African nations to deepen ties with BRICS
 is the substantial economic potential these countries offer. 
BRICS nations, especially China, have become major 
investors in Africa, driving infrastructure 
development, trade, and 
economic growth.
 
China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) --- exemplifies this 
commitment, with projects like the Mombasa-Nairobi 
railway in Kenya.... and the Addis Ababa-Djibouti 
railway transforming transportation and trade 
across East Africa. These initiatives improve
 connectivity, create jobs, and boost local 
economies, offering tangible benefits
to 
African populations.
 
Beyond China, other BRICS members contribute significantly. 
Russia ---- has expanded its footprint in Africa’s energy and 
security sectors, collaborating on nuclear power projects 
in Egypt and South Africa and supplying arms to various 
nations. India has strengthened trade ties, focusing on 
agriculture, plus pharmaceuticals, and information 
technology, while also providing development
 assistance through platforms like the 
India-Africa Forum Summit.
 
Brazil shares its expertise in tropical agriculture, helping African
 countries enhance food security and productivity. South Africa, 
as both a BRICS member and an African nation, plays a 
unique role in facilitating cooperation between the 
bloc and the continent.
 
Additionally, the New Development Bank (NDB), established by 
BRICS, supports infrastructure and sustainable development 
projects, some of which benefit African nations. Unlike 
Western aid, which often comes with stringent 
political or economic conditions, BRICS 
investments tend to prioritize mutual 
benefit - over interference.
 
This transactional approach, appeals to African leaders, seeking 
to preserve their autonomy while securing resources for growth. 
By aligning with BRICS, African nations can tap into alternative 
funding streams, reducing reliance on Western financial
institutions and - potentially - negotiating more 
favourable terms.
 
Politically, BRICS offers African nations a partnership that aligns 
with their aspirations for sovereignty and independence. The 
bloc champions a multipolar world order, challenging the 
hegemony of Western powers, particularly the US.
 
This vision resonates with African countries that have endured 
centuries of colonization, exploitation, and marginalization by 
Western nations. BRICS summit declarations consistently 
emphasize sovereignty, non-interference, and mutual 
respect—principles that contrast with the U.S.’s 
history of imposing sanctions, military 
interventions, or conditional aid... 
on African states.
 
For example, while the U.S. has sometimes tied assistance to 
political reforms or human rights demands, BRICS countries 
generally refrain from such criticism, offering a partnership 
model that respects African autonomy.
 
This approach --- allows African leaders to pursue their own 
development paths without external pressure. By leaning 
towards BRICS -- African nations can strengthen their 
position on the global stage --- asserting their right 
to self-determination in a world often dominated
 by Western interests.
 
A Voice for Africa
 
BRICS also provides African nations - with an ally in advocating 
for a more equitable international system. The BRICS bloc has 
consistently called for reforms in the global governance 
institutions like the International Monetary Fund (IMF), 
the World Bank, and the United Nations Security 
Council (UNSC), which are widely criticized for 
favoring Western powers. 
 
African countries, despite their significant numbers, have long 
been underrepresented in these bodies. BRICS’s push for 
change—such as expanding the UNSC to include more
developing nations — could open opportunities 
for African states to gain greater influence, 
potentially securing permanent seats.
 
By collaborating with BRICS, African nations can amplify their 
demands for fair representation and decision-making power. 
This partnership offers a platform to address historical 
imbalances -- and ensure that global policies better 
reflect the needs and priorities of the developing 
world. In an era where Trump’s administration 
appears focused on maintaining the U.S. 
dominance.... aligning with BRICS, 
strengthens Africa’s ability to 
advocate for a more just 
global order.
 
Trump’s confrontational stance towards BRICS, including threats 
of tariffs and economic penalties, highlights the risks of over-
reliance on the U.S. For African nations, diversifying partner-
ships is a strategic necessity. Programs like the African
 Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which grants duty
-free access to the U.S. market, are valuable but come 
with conditions and could be disrupted by shifts in 
U.S. policy. A more hostile Trump administration 
might further complicate these arrangements, 
leaving African economies exposed.
 
Engaging with BRICS offers a buffer against such uncertainties. 
By building stronger ties with Brazil, Russia, India, China, and 
South Africa, African countries can expand their trade, 
investment, and development options. 
 
This diversification enhances economic resilience, allowing 
nations to navigate global tensions ---- without being overly 
dependent on any single power. In a volatile geopolitical 
climate, having multiple partners........ is not just an 
advantage — it’s a safeguard.
 
Shared Goals
 
BRICS and African nations, share common challenges and 
ambitions, including poverty reduction, industrialization, 
and sustainable development. This alignment creates 
a foundation for meaningful collaboration.
 
For instance --- India’s expertise in information technology, could 
help African countries develop digital economies, while China’s 
manufacturing prowess could support industrialization efforts. 
Russia’s advancements in energy and Brazil’s agricultural 
innovations offer additional avenues for cooperation. 
Meanwhile, South Africa’s experience as a 
developing economy within BRICS, 
provides insights.. relevant to 
the continent’s needs.
 
In areas like renewable energy, BRICS countries have made 
significant progress that could benefit Africa’s efforts to 
address energy, poverty, and climate change. 
 
By partnering with BRICS, African nations... gain access to 
technology, expertise, and markets that accelerate their
 development. This synergy -- fosters a relationship 
grounded in mutual benefit, where both sides 
work towards ----- lifting populations out of 
poverty and building sustainable futures.
 
Critics of closer ties with BRICS point to potential risks. Some 
argue that the bloc lacks cohesion, with members like India 
and China clashing over territorial issues, or Brazil and 
South Africa grappling with domestic instability.
 
Others warn of over-dependence on China, which dominates 
BRICS economically, raising concerns about debt traps or 
resource exploitation. These are valid considerations, 
as some BRICS investments have been criticized 
for prioritizing strategic interests, over 
African development.
 
However, African nations can address these challenges through 
strategic engagement. They can negotiate terms that protect 
their sovereignty and ensure equitable partnerships,
 engaging not just with China but with all BRICS 
members --- to balance influence.
 
By diversifying within the bloc and beyond, African countries 
can mitigate risks while maximizing benefits. The key is to 
approach BRICS as a partner, not a savior, leveraging
 these relationships to advance national interests.
 
Leaning towards BRICS offers a path to diversify 
economic and political partnerships, to assert 
sovereignty --- and reform global governance, 
while pursuing shared development goals.
 
The economic investments from China’s railways to India’s tech 
initiatives, the political alignment on sovereignty, and the push 
for a fairer world order all present compelling reasons to 
deepen ties. While challenges like dependency and 
bloc cohesion exist ------ they can be managed, 
through careful strategy and negotiation.
 
In an increasingly multipolar world, African nations could seize 
this moment to chart their own course. By aligning with BRICS 
during Trump’s administration, they can reduce vulnerability 
to U.S. policies, tap into new opportunities, and strengthen 
their global standing.
 
The potential rewards—economic growth, political empowerment, 
and sustainable progress—make this a journey worth embarking 
on, positioning Africa as a proactive player in shaping the future
 
Kungu Al-Mahadi Adam is a Ugandan journalist
with a passion...... for current African Affairs.
 
 
 
__________________________________________



Protests broke out in Kenya: 
cars were set on fire, and 
tear gas was used
by Alexander Gatsak (Nairobi)
June 12th, 1:55pm
(Rossiyskaya Gazeta) 
 
Mass riots broke out in the Kenyan capital, triggered by 
the sudden death in prison of a popular blogger in the 
country, Albert Ojwang. The influencer was arrested
on charges of ''inciting hatred'' against law 
enforcement agencies.
 
Demonstrators tried to break through to the police headquarters 
and the National Assembly building. The security forces pushed 
back the crowd using tear gas. Several cars were set on fire 
during the protests. The unrest is expected to continue 
until the end of the day.
 
The protesters are convinced that the police are responsible for 
the blogger's death. They are demanding the resignation of 
Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagata.
 
The Russian Embassy in Nairobi has urged 
its compatriots to refrain from visiting
the 
capital's centre.
 


___________________________________________
 
 
 
Madrid to host world conference 
on people of African descent
June 12th, 11:02am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Reina Sofia Museum and the Senate of Spain will host
 the world conference on people of African descent, from 
October 14 to 16,the Equality Ministry confirmed 
on Thursday.
 
Under the name AFROMADRID 2025, the event will address 
current racism, hate regimes, and authoritarianism, Pan-
Africanism, the ideological construction of racial 
segregation, and establishing a development 
fund for people of African descent.
 
Restorative justice, the challenges of women of African descent, 
or inclusive public policies, with the active participation of civil 
society, international organizations, and governments, will be 
other issues for the participants to address.
 
The Conference’s theme will be “People of African Descent: 
Strength for Social Transformation. Recognition and 
Restorative Justice,” and will include 200 
prominent figures, and international 
organizations, academicians, 
and activists.
 
Doudou Diene, president of Afromadrid’s scientific committee, 
stressed that the meeting will work to build a multicultural 
society in which people of African descent ---- are not 
conceived as victims, but as a transforming force.
 
The Conference is sponsored by the African-Spanish Association, 
consisting of Active Africa, Movement Against Intolerance, the 
Anna Perenna Women of the World, and Esport Solidari, 
and the Equality Ministry.
 
 
_____________________________________
 
 
 
South Africa: Dialogue... on 
the employment of people 
with disabilities
June 12th, 10:17am
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The Ministry of Employment and Labour of South Africa 
is hosting a two-day policy dialogue ---- focused on the 
“Transition of people with disabilities to employment”.
 
According to a ministerial statement, the event seeks to foster
debate and contribute to the development of a national policy 
framework ------ that will significantly improve employment
opportunities for people with disabilities in South Africa.
 
These sessions bring together key national stakeholders such 
as representatives from the Department of Basic Education 
(DBE), the Department of Higher Education and Training 
(DHET), the National Treasury, the Department of 
Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities 
(DWYPD).
 
Diplomats from the EU, employers’ organizations, organizations of 
Persons with Disabilities (OPD), Sectorial Education and Training 
Authorities (SETA) and various NGOs are attending the meeting.
 
The Minisry´s document explains that through dialogue, they 
will explore strategies to create career pathways, address 
misconceptions and build on existing initiatives, such as 
Supported Employment Enterprises (SEE) to empower 
people with disabilities.
 
According to the program, the event includes updates on the 
social impact of gender-based education, and the quality
 of products made by people with disabilities.
 
 
__________________________________________
 
 
 
Angola and China --- sign agreements 
on health and economic partnership
June 12th, 10:11am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Angola and China signed two legal instruments today
 for cooperation in health and economic partnership 
for development, reported the Foreign Ministry.
 
The signing took place in the context of the Ministerial 
Conference of Coordinators for the Implementation of 
the Results of the China-Africa Cooperation Forum, 
held in Changsha, Hunan province, in China, in 
the presence of Angolan Foreign Minister,
Téte António.
 
The Protocol between the governments of Angola and China 
for the dispatch of a medical team to the African nation is 
aimed at “building a Community of Human Health” and 
deepening cooperation in this area, according to the 
Foreign Ministry’s statement.
 
This instrument specifies ----- that the Chinese side will be 
responsible for sending a group of 12 specialists in fields 
specified by the Angolan side - to the African country, 
whose mission will be to exchange experiences 
and provide medical assistance (-- except for 
medico-legal activities) to the population,
 in close collaboration with local 
health professionals.
 
“Both parties will urge hospitals --- to establish cooperative 
relationships, promote research and academic exchange,
 provide training, and offer free consultations and 
specialty development,” the document adds.
 
Meanwhile, the Framework Agreement on Economic Partnership 
for Shared Development ---- seeks to establish closer ties and 
promote not only relations between China and Angola, but 
also.... between the Asian nation and the rest of the 
African countries.
 
It also aims to pursue inclusive growth, by encouraging 
African manufacturing and agricultural transformation 
and modernization, improving the competitiveness of 
African countries in the global market, & supporting 
their integration into the global economy.
 
Further, it seeks to promote international trade and investment 
to play an important role in promoting diversified economic 
transformation and high-quality development, as well as 
strengthening the capacity of African countries... to
 produce and export high value-added products.
 
 
 
__________________________________________________


 
Paramilitaries announce control 
of key border triangle in Sudan
June 11th, 3:11pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Rapid Support Forces (RSF, English) announced 
today the capture of the strategic border triangle 
between Sudan, Egypt and Libya, after the 
withdrawal of the army.
 
According to press reports.... the paramilitaries described 
it as a significant victory, while the army stated that the 
withdrawal was part of broader defensive measures.
 
The Sudanese military accused Libyan General Khalifa 
Haftar's forces of directly supporting the RSF in a 
recent attack on its border positions.
 
For the first time, authorities in Khartoum openly blamed 
Haftar since the start of the war in April 2023.
 
The army denounced the action as a violation of 
Sudanese sovereignty and international law.
 
The ongoing hostility between the Sudanese army, led by 
Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, & the RSF under the command
 of Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo has caused the death
of tens
 of thousands of people .........and the
displacement of 
13 million.
 
The United Nations called it the world's worst 
humanitarian crisis, with famine spreading.
 
In this scenario, Sudan also accused the 
United Arab Emirates of arming the RSF.
 
 
 
______________________________



 Angola and Cuba for collaborating
 on Labour and Social Security
June 11th, 2:27pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Cuba and Angola are working today on the signing of
 a collaboration agreement between the Ministries 
of Labour and Social Security of the Caribbean 
nation... and Public Administration, Labour 
& Social Security of the African country.
 
The Cuban head of the portfolio, Marta Elena Feitó, and her 
Angolan counterpart Teresa Rodrigues Dias, spoke on the 
subject the day before, in Geneva, Switzerland, on the
 sidelines of the International Labour Conference.
 
Through his account on the social network X, Feitó alluded to
 the bilateral meeting and the preparation for the signing of a 
collaboration agreement between both countries; 
meanwhile, the Angola Press Agency (Angop) 
reported this Wednesday that the parties 
addressed collaboration in 
vocational training.
 
Training in areas such as information and communications 
technologies, agribusiness, creative economy and 
musical arts were among the interests of the 
Angolan side, according to Angop.
 
They also evaluated the possibility of collaborating in Angola 
in sectors that represent the greatest challenges, such as 
the training of cadres in technical areas and support for 
the National Development Plan, through the National 
Institute of Employment and Vocational Training.
 

 
_________________________________________
 


Russia sets grain supply
 record ------ to Egypt
June 11th, 12:29pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Russia supplied Egypt with more than 10 million tons of grain 
in one year, which made it a key component for the Arab 
country's baking industry, Russian ambassador in 
Cairo, Georgy Borisenko, said today.
 
The total volume of Russian grain supplies to Egypt reached 
an unprecedented figure in the world market last year 2024, 
well, no one in the world market has bought grain in such
 volumes, the diplomat highlighted, in an interview with 
the Sputnik news agency.
 
Borisenko emphasized, that Russia has never sold 
as much bread to any other country... as to Egypt.
 
According to the ambassador, Russian grain is actively used
 in bread production in Egypt, and he expressed hope that 
this cooperation between Moscow and Cairo, in the 
agricultural sector, will be further strengthened.
 
Previously, the Russian Ministry of Agriculture reported that 
the planting campaign in Russia in 2025 is advancing at an 
accelerated pace, meanwhile, buckwheat supplies to 
China in March almost tripled .....and reached an 
all-time high.
 
Likewise, the Slavic country intends to increase the volume 
of its grain exports to Indonesia, through the KSK terminal
 in the port of Novorossiysk.
 
 
_________________________________________________
 
 
They consider that Luanda 
can become pan-African 
cultural capital 
June 11th, 6:19am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Luanda can and should assert itself as a pan-African cultural 
capital, considered the organizers of the Luanda Art Fair, 
for which, the main city of Angola is preparing today.
 
The general director of the event, Dominick A Maia Tanner, 
appreciated that this second edition is scheduled for June 
25 to 28, it must contribute to this purpose, by being a 
point of convergence for music production in the 
country, the region and the continent.
 
In this regard, the representative of the Africell company, 
Dinamine Chongolola, highlighted at a press conference
 the presence of artists from the provinces of Huíla and 
Benguela --- as well as creators from the Democratic 
Republic of the Congo and São Tomé and Príncipe.
 
He also highlighted the efforts of the telecommunications 
company Africell and the Africell Impact Foundation, the 
company's arm for investments in art and culture, for 
continuing to support this type of event that opens 
space to both established and new artists.
 
Representatives of different galleries that will be present during 
the event also spoke about the opportunities for new talents, 
such as Palomino Artes, which is participating for the
 first time.
 
Elizabeth Pozo specified that they arrive at the Fair with a 
selection of Angolan and Cuban artists, who will not only 
exhibit paintings, but will also have installations.
 
Alexandra Gonçalves, from The Art Affair gallery, highlighted
 that this is an opportunity to promote national art and, in 
particular, emerging talents.
 
He drew attention to the fact that the country has a nascent
 art market and events like this are essential for its growth 
and consolidation.
 
The Art Affair will be represented with three artists and 
two photographers, said Gonçalves, who insisted ---- 
that the Angolan people deserve to enjoy art, see 
how far creativity can take us and recognize
 the great potential that exists.
 
Xavier Narciso, from the Tamar Golan Gallery, highlighted 
the presence of students from the Faculty of Art of the 
University of Luanda among the 15 artists who will 
lead the event, with around 80 works.
 
This will not only allow us to know their work, but also to
apparent to others, he noted.
 
The director of the Palácio de Ferro, João Vigário, pointed 
out that the institution he directs cannot separate itself
 from the movements that have the artist as their 
epicentre, as is the case with the Fair.
 
He added that this is an opportunity for the Angolan people
 and considered that the event contributes to redefining 
the way Angolan art is seen inside and outside Angola.
 
“We have enormous potential in Africa, we need to create an 
infrastructure to make that potential visible - and that is our 
contribution”, said Maia Tanner.
 
 
 
________________________________________________



Uruguay demands that the UN 
replace its blue helmets 
in the DRC
June 10th, 12:34pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Uruguay today demanded that the United Nations 
Organization immediately take over the battalion 
of Uruguayan blue helmets deployed in the 
Democratic Republic of the Congo (RDC).
 
The request took place during a high-level meeting 
here, between senior officials of the government 
of the S. American country and representatives 
of the world organization.
 
The objective of the meeting was to agree on the 
strategic priorities of the new United Nations 
Cooperation Framework for Sustainable 
Development 2026-2030.
 
Defense Minister Sandra Lazo said at the forum that 
her country has many issues in common with the 
UN, but our main concern is “the urgent need 
to carry out the rotation'' of the Uruguay IV 
Battalion deployed in the African country.
 
He pointed out the lack of UN leadership to negotiate 
with the M23 rebel movement ------ which would
enable 
the departure of the blue helmets.
 
Currently, in the DRC, there are about 600 Uruguayan 
troops, of which, 200 want to return and expressed 
mental health problems, said the minister.
 
He said that there are Uruguayan soldiers who made 
their return on their own, with a prevalence of 
mental illnesses.
 
“Oh take over, or let the UN bring in those 200”, 
he stressed.
 
Lazo emphasized that if the United Nations cannot 
comply with these obligations, Uruguay would be 
responsible for returning its troops from the 
peace contingent.
 
He reiterated, that his portfolio and the Foreign Ministry 
have carried out several efforts, including an interview 
with the Minister of Defense of Rwanda, a country 
involved in the armed conflict in the DRC.
 
He announced that Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin will 
travel this week to the UN headquarters in New York, 
carrying a letter from the government -- demanding 
the repatriation of his uniformed personnel.
 
 
___________________________________
 
 
 
South Africa ---- reaffirms value of 
diplomacy before the G7 Summit
June 10th, 11:53am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, 
today reaffirmed the country's commitment 
to international diplomacy.
 
In statements to the press, the South African president 
- also highlighted the importance of the upcoming G7 
Leaders Summit as a key opportunity to strengthen 
global alliances and promote South African pro 
tempore leadership of the G20.
 
In that sense, Ramaphosa confirmed that South Africa 
has been officially invited to participate in the summit, 
which will be held in Kananaskis, Canada, from June 
14 to 17.
 
''Yes, let's go to the G7. We have been invited by Canada, 
which is the president of the G7 this year. I hope we 
can interact meaningfully with the leaders of that 
group", he said.
 
The South African president announced that he will take 
advantage of the event to hold bilateral meetings with 
the Chancellor of Germany, the Prime Minister of 
Canada and the President of the US, 
Donald Trump.
 
The G7, he maintained, gives us the opportunity to spread 
our message about the South African presidency of the 
G20 and how we want to achieve great results at the 
summit of the G20 in November, he explained.
 
In his remarks to the media in Pretoria, Ramaphosa also 
defended his recent visit to the White House, calling it 
a strategy to “reset” relations, with one of South 
Africa's main trading partners.
 
“We were not summoned. It was our initiative. In a phone 
call with President Trump, I expressed my interest in 
visiting him, and a date was quickly agreed upon,'' 
he clarified.
 
The President highlighted that during the meeting progress 
was made in cooperation between the departments of 
Commerce and Industry and International Relations 
....and the importance of the United States' 
participation in the next G20 summit 
that South Africa will organize in 
November, was stressed.
 
Trump acknowledged that the G20 is not fully 
effective without US participation, he said.
 
Finally, Ramaphosa emphasized the need to reposition 
South Africa in a turbulent geopolitical context, 
through active engagement with countries 
in Africa, the Middle East, Asia 
and Europe.
 
 
___________________________________
 


South Africa monitors new 
variant of Covid-19
June 10th, 10:35am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
South Africa closely monitors the emergence of a new 
variant of Covid-19, known as Nimbus or NB.1.8.1, 
associated with an increase in cases in 
Asian regions.
 
As recalled today by the South African Minister of Health, 
Aaron Motsoaledi, at the 4th meeting of the G20 Health 
Working Group, which is being held in Johannesburg, 
the World Health Organization (WHO) has classified 
it as a ''variant under surveillance.''
 
As of today, India is the latest country to experience a sudden 
increase in new COVID-19 cases associated with the variant, 
NB.1.8.1. In addition, the United Kingdom Health Security 
Agency reported the first 13 cases of this variant in the 
country, last week.
 
Faced with this situation -- the South African National Institute 
of Communicable Diseases (NICD) manages a comprehensive 
sentinel surveillance program that systematically tests to 
detect key respiratory viruses, such as SARS-CoV-2, 
influenza and RSV, Motsoaledi explained.
 
Currently, the Minister revealed, our data shows 
very low SARS-CoV-2 activity in South Africa.
 
''Crucially, the new variant remains a descendant 
of the Omicron lineage. This means that current 
recommendations for updated SARS-CoV-2 
vaccines remain effective,'' he added.
 
Therefore, he maintained, at the moment, no new 
specific public health measures are required by 
the population.
 
The fourth meeting of the G20 Health Working Group - which 
brings together leaders, experts and policy makers from the 
health sector from the world's largest economies - invited 
countries and international organizations, a week long, 
it will conclude on Friday.
 
Plenary sessions build on lessons learned from the COVID-19 
pandemic and address persistent barriers to accessing 
countermeasures, especially in low- and middle-
income countries.
 
According to the Ministry, the expansion of local and regional 
manufacturing capacity is prioritized, especially in regions 
such as Africa.
 
Delegates also explore opportunities for technology transfer, 
sustainable financing and regulatory harmonization to 
ensure timely and equitable access to vital tools 
during health emergencies.
 
 
___________________________________


Libyan Authorities Confirm
''Stability'' in Tripoli After 
Armed Clashes
June 9th, 12:34pm
(teleSUR)
 
The Libyan Defense Ministry --- has declared that 
the security situation in Tripoli remains stable, 
following overnight clashes ------- between 
government forces and armed militias.
 
Authorities confirmed that military units intervened 
swiftly, ensuring the withdrawal of armed groups 
and restoring compliance with the ceasefire 
agreements established in May.
 
The Defense Ministry warned against further violations, 
reaffirming its commitment to national security and 
its readiness --- to take necessary measures to 
prevent future escalations.
 
The latest violence follows deadly confrontations
in May, 
triggered by the assassination of the
Stability Support 
Apparatus leader.
 
Libya remains politically divided, with two rival 
administrations vying for control, since the 
postponement of presidential elections
 in 2021.
 
[Rhondda Records adds: After the West
criminally bombed Libya and murdered
its Progressive leader, Gaddafi.]
 
 
___________________________________
 
 
 
Ethiopia ranked as Africa’s fifth 
largest economy in 2024
June 9th, 10:59am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Ethiopia has ranked fifth among African nations with
 the largest economies in 2024, according to the 
International Monetary Fund (IMF), Fana 
Broadcasting Corporate noted
 on Sunday.
 
Ethiopia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) amounts to 
US$205.1 billion and globally ranks 57th according 
to the IMF.
 
Ahead of Ethiopia are South Africa, Egypt, Algeria and 
Nigeria, in that order, as the largest economies on
 the African continent. 
 
 
__________________________________
 
 
 
Niger: accuses Benin 
of kidnapping 5 of 
its nationals
June 9th, 9:53am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Niger on Sunday condemned the Benin government's 
involvement in the kidnapping of five of its citizens, 
in charge in Benin.. of controlling the oil cargo of 
the Wapco-Niger company, according to
 local television.
 
The kidnapped were supervising the loading of crude oil 
from this country to a Chinese vessel.. in the port of 
Seme-Kpodji and are still being held hostage by 
the Beninese authorities, said the National 
Council for the Safeguard of the 
Homeland (CNSP).
 
Niger - will take all necessary measures to secure the 
release of its kidnapped citizens, defend their rights 
and protect crucial interests of this country, said 
CNSP sources.
 
On the other hand, Porto Novo.. indicated that two 
Nigerien citizens arrested arrived in that nation 
with false documents and - in no way - are 
employees of the mentioned company.
 
But the authorities of this northwestern African state 
claimed that the vice general manager of Wapco-
Niger, Aminu Jadisatu Ibra, and four other 
executives of that company - were 
kidnapped in Benin.
 
Niger accuses President Patrice Talon 
------ of allowing violations of the oil 
transport agreement.
 
Niger’s Prime Minister, Ali Majaman Lamin Zein, accused 
the neighbouring country: of installing U.S. military 
bases there, where terrorist groups are being 
trained ---- and sent to destabilize this 
landlocked nation.
 
At the beginning of last May, Porto Novo banned the entry 
into national waters, of tankers which were to collect 
crude oil from the recently opened pipeline, which 
goes from Niger, to the export terminals in
the 
Gulf of Guinea.
 
However, last May 15, the Beninese authorities authorized 
the entry into Benin’s territorial waters of a tanker from 
China... whose National Oil and Gas Corporation
has 
participated in the construction of the 
aforementioned 1,980 km long pipeline.
 
CNSP spokesman, Major Colonel Amadou Abdramane, 
recalled the need to comply with the three main 
agreements: to regulate the transport of 
Nigerian crude oil for export 
through Benin.
 
 
 
_______________________________
 
 
 
Displaced people in DRC
province 
return to
their homes
June 9th, 9:15am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
A number of families displaced by recent clashes between
 the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo 
(DRC) and the rebels of the March 23 Movement (M23) 
are returning to their homes today.
 
According to the president of the civil society of Kanyabayonga, 
Daniel Kamwanga, since the calm in this rural commune and 
the end of clashes, people are gradually returning to their 
homes, noting that about 50% have already returned to 
their residences.
 
In particular, there are eight neighbourhoods in the Lubero 
territory, in the province of North Kivu, where civilians 
are back. The situation is not the same in the area 
of Bwito though, the source explained.
 
Kamwanga --- called for the army to keep pressure on the 
M23 so that the population can continue to return home.
 
On Saturday, the DRC Armed Forces retook control of 
Mirangi, Lusuli and Kyaghala villages, about 20 km 
from Kanyabayonga city.
 
The victory moved the fighting away from Kanyabayonga, 
but M23 rebels keep control of Lusogha and Bulindi 
villages, while clashes continues in Kikuku, the 
main town of Bwito chiefdom, and on the 
Kabasha-armoirie road in Virunga 
National Park... on the way to 
Rwindi, in Rutshuru.
 
 
_______________________________



India welcomes Africa's entry 
into the disaster platform
June 7th, 8:47am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Prime Minister of India... Narendra Modi, today, 
expressed his satisfaction with the incorporation 
of the African Union into the Conference on 
Disaster Resilient Infrastructure 2025 
(CDRI).
 
In a video message addressed to the International 
Conference on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure 
2025 the head of government emphasized the 
need to design viable programs and ensure
 that developing countries have access 
to financing.
 
Furthermore, he emphasized - considering small island 
developing States, as large oceanic countries, due to 
their vulnerability as they deserve special attention; 
and he stated that strengthening early warning 
systems and coordination - is crucial.
 
He also expressed his hope that the 
debate at this conference would 
consider these aspects.
 
He also thanked French President Emmanuel 
Macron for his support; The CDRI is held in 
France for the first time.
 
 
___________________________________
 
 
 
Warning about million-dollar losses 
in Africa - due to illicit finances
June 7th, 7:52am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Africa experiences significant losses, estimated 
at around $40 billion annually, due to illicit (IFF)
 financial flows in the extractive sector, the 
Ethiopia News Agency reported today.
 
The deputy executive secretary of the Economic 
Commission for Africa (ECA), Antonio Pedro, 
quoted by the local media -- explained that 
these losses not only hinder development 
progress they also exacerbate economic 
injustices & deprive African populations 
of access to essential resources.
 
Pedro maintained that the IFF in the extractive sector 
are one of the symptoms of a serious structural 
problem that aggravates the development 
of the continent, that is, its excessive 
dependence.. on the export of raw 
materials, an extractivist model 
and a construction inherited 
from the colonial era.
 
“Exporting raw materials -- is exporting jobs, a luxury that 
the continent cannot afford given the need to create at 
least 20 million jobs annually for young people. As 
such, addressing the IFFS and its root causes 
should be at the heart of Africa's 
development policy and 
action”, he noted.
 
He considered that solving these critical challenges 
is essential to foster African self-reliance and 
achieve sustainable development.
 
He indicated that, with the adoption of strategic frame-
works ---- such as the African Mining Vision and the 
African Green Minerals Strategy, which advocate 
for resource-driven industrialization and added 
value, they have the necessary instruments 
to guarantee that these natural resources 
promote economic emancipation.
 
He emphasized that the promotion of local content and 
the reform of global financial and governance systems 
are crucial to mitigate the Intergovernmental Forums 
on Forests ----- and promote the objectives of the
development of Africa.
 
He also highlighted the importance of global collaboration 
and sustainable development. Consequently, Pedro called 
on African nations: to unite & build a common voice and 
positions to defend their interests on the international 
platform effectively.
 
It is the joint responsibility of governments, mining companies,
local communities, financial institutions and other actors, to 
close perception gaps about what constitutes benefits and 
work together to prioritize sustainable development in the 
extractive sector.
 
The ECA deputy executive director's reflections, occurred 
during the High-Level Policy Dialogue held in New York, 
United States, last week, organized by the Office of 
the United Nations Special Adviser on Africa and 
the Permanent Observer Mission of the African 
Union to that multilateral organization.
 
 
____________________________________
 
 

Geographic indications.. and links 
with Slovenia in Ethiopian week
June 7th, 5:43am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The importance of geographical indications (IG) for the 
preservation of local products and the strengthening 
of relations with Slovenia ---- after the visit of its 
president, Natasa Pirc Musar, marked the 
week that ends today in Ethiopia.
 
The director general of the World Intellectual Property 
Organization (OMPI), Daren Tang, stated that the GI 
system --- will allow coffee, and honey, added to 
Addis Ababa's distinctive high-quality pottery 
and other heritage products, to add value 
and thrive.
 
This was expressed by Tang ------ when speaking at the 
International Conference on Geographical Indications, 
the latter a sign used in products with a specific 
origin and with qualities or reputation 
associated with that place. The 
event took place on June 3 
and 4 in this capital.
 
He specified that these variables are a means to promote 
employment, attract investments and take advantage of 
development. “That's why it's so exciting to see 
Ethiopia move towards geologics legislation, 
providing producers with additional social 
and economic protection”, he said.
 
He also considered the progress of the African Continental 
Free Trade Area in driving development goals and sharing 
Ethiopia's rich heritage with the world.
 
Reaffirmed WIPO's commitment to play its role and continue 
to collaborate with the African nation on its path towards 
a robust geographical indication system.
 
In terms of foreign policy, Ethiopia and Slovenia strengthened 
their relations after the working visit of the president of
that European nation, Natasa Pirc Musar, on June 5.
 
During his stay.. he held talks with his Ethiopian counterpart, 
Taye Atske Selassie, on a wide range of multilateral issues, 
including the reform of the UN Security Council and 
conflicts that threaten global peace and security, 
as well as the rules-based international order.
 
The agenda also included a meeting with Prime Minister 
Abiy Ahmed and a courtesy visit to the Vice President 
of the African Union Commission, Selma Malika 
Haddadi, at the headquarters of the
 continental organization.
 
Musar and Haddadi -- discussed strengthening cooperation 
between Africa and Europe, reforms of the United Nations 
Security Council and shared priorities within the 
AU-EU Partnership.
 
 
______________________________________


"We're going home." PMC
Wagner leaves Mali
by Varvara Koshechkina (editor of 
the Operational Information Dept)
June 6th, 2:41pm 
(Lenta.ru)
 
Private military company (PMCs) Wagner 
completes its mission after three and a 
half years of cooperation with the 
authorities and Armed Forces of 
the Republic of Mali. This is 
stated by the company.
 
The decision was made in connection with the 
fulfillment of all the set goals of the contract.
 
''For 3.5 years, the band members have been fighting 
alongside the people of Mali against terrorism. We 
we have completed the main task — all regional 
capitals — have returned to the control of the 
legitimate authorities. Mission completed. 
PMC Wagner returns home.'' Press 
service of PMC Wagner.
 
PMCs participated in the rearmament and training 
of the Malian Armed Forces ------ as well as in the 
creation of an effective system of anti-terrorist 
operations.  Mali's Minister of Defense and 
Veterans' Affairs - General Sadio Camara, 
called the presence of PMCs, "a symbol 
of the country's newfound sovereignty" 
over its territory. 
 
During their stay in Mali, PMC fighters eliminated 
"4 leaders of terrorist associations, thousands 
of militants and 11 of their support bases."
 
"Wagner" was replaced by the "Afrika Korps" 
under the Ministry of Defense of Russia.
 
The most significant episode of my stay 
in Mali ------- was the capture of Kidal
 
''Assault operations in 2023 began immediately after
 the withdrawal of the last UN peacekeepers, who
 were used by the separatists..... as a cover. The
capture of Kidal was an important milestone
 ---- in the military campaign of the Malian
Armed 
Forces and the Wagner PMC,
against 
the militants. 
 
''The city was a symbol of Tuareg separatism, 
where the Malian army had not appeared 
for years.
 
''There were, however --- setbacks. In July 2024, in 
northern Mali --- government troops and Wagner 
fighters were ambushed by Tuareg separatists. 
Dozens of PMCs were unable to escape.'' 
 
The Ukrainian authorities said they had helped 
prepare the operation. Subsequently - Mali 
and Niger severed diplomatic relations 
with Ukraine.
 
Wagner's actions in Africa were compared
------- to the feat of the Red Army soldiers
 
This statement was made....... by Fidel Guanjica, 
Special Adviser to the President of the Central 
African Republic (CAR) --- at an evening in
honour 
of the 80th anniversary of
the Victory. 
 
He praised the feat of the peoples of the USSR 
during the Great Patriotic War and added that 
the fight against Nazism continues today. 
 
"Our cooperation today -- corresponds to what 
it was 86 years ago, when we fought against 
Nazism," Guanjica said.
 
Meanwhile, the commander of the PMC "Wagner" 
Dmitry Podolsky, with the call sign Salem, said 
that the soldiers are equal to their ancestors 
who fought in the Great Patriotic War. 
 
Salem mentioned the operations of the Wagner 
PMC in Africa and Syria, as well as during the 
special military operation. He noted - the 
capture of Palmyra, Artemivsk (Ukraine
name Bakhmut) and Soledar. 
 
According to the commander, in two months in Mali, 
the Russian PMCs achieved what France could not
 do....... in several years of Operation Barkhan.
 

 
_____________________________________________
 

 
DRC opens new cycle
in UN peace fund
June 6th, 9:49pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (RDC).... 
inaugurated a new cycle of the United Nations' 
Peacebuilding Fund....  corresponding to the 
period 2025-2029, the Ministry of Planning 
and Coordination of Development Aid 
reported today.
 
The deputy prime minister and head of that 
portfolio, Guylain Nyembo, and the United 
Nations resident coordinator in the DRC, 
Bruno Lemarquis, were in charge of the
 launch ceremony, made the day before.
 
This fourth cycle of the Fund is structured around
 three main priorities ----- including strengthening 
governance, and prevention and peacebuilding 
mechanisms.
 
Supporting.. the resilience of vulnerable 
communities, including addressing the 
root causes of conflict, particularly 
those related to natural, mining 
and territorial resources, is 
another objective.
 
The priorities are completed by the protection of 
the civilian population - the promotion of human 
rights & justice, including transitional justice, 
as part of the gradual and responsible 
withdrawal... of the United Nations 
Stabilization Mission in the DRC.
 
Nyembo declared that --- restoring peace throughout 
the national territory is a non-negotiable imperative.
 “Because peace ------ paves the way towards 
sustainable development”.
 
Lemarquis, for his part, highlighted the importance 
of an efficient use of allocated funds, to maximize 
their impact.
 
 
_________________________________________________
 
 
 
DRC government and opposition 
leader - unite to resolve conflict 
June 6th, 7:31am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The President of the Democratic Republic of the 
Congo (RDC), Félix Tshisekedi... and opposition 
leader Martin Fayulu is betting today on unity 
to find a solution to the conflict in the east 
of the country - and avoid balkanization.
 
The day before, the president spoke with the main 
figure of the Commitment to Citizenship and 
Development party (Ecide) & the Lamuka 
platform, just 72 hours after he publicly 
requested a meeting with the head of 
state, after seven years of breaking 
any collaboration.
 
After almost two hours of conversations ----- Fayulu 
told the press that he proposed to the president to
create a command for the country and asked him 
to meet with the bishops of the National 
Episcopal Conference of the Congo 
(Cenco) and the pastors of the 
Church of Christ in the 
Congo (ECC).
 
“The country is in a very difficult situation. They 
attack us from everywhere. We need national 
cohesion. I came to tell you that we don't 
have 36 solutions”, he noted.
 
He added that, with all the crises faced: social, 
political and security, the solution is social 
dialogue, therefore - he asked Tshisekedi 
to discuss together with Cenco and ECC
 the social pact they propose, to which
 the president promised to give a 
quick response.
 
Regarding possible participation in the 
institutions, he maintained that it was 
not a point addressed at the meeting.
 
Fayulu, who is considered Tshisekedi's strongest 
opponent, after questioning his election as 
president in 2018, on June 2nd, called for 
joining forces to confront the dangerous 
situation in the country ----- which was 
praised by the Congolese president, 
as proof of patriotism.
 
Upon receiving him this Thursday at the 
Presidential Palace -- the head of state 
said he was pleased with the meeting 
and promised an open conversation, 
stated the Congolese Presidency.
 
Fayulu was accompanied by his closest 
collaborators: Devos Kitoko; Prince 
Epenge; Alex Dende, also known 
as Lexxus Legal, and
 Chantal Moboni.
 
The DRC faces violence -- from armed groups in 
the east of the country, but fundamentally on 
the offensive of the rebel coalition Congo 
River Alliance-March 23 Movement 
(AFC/M23), that with the help of 
Rwanda has occupied a large 
part of the national territory, 
reviving fears - of possible 
dismemberment.
 
In his message on the 2nd, Fayulu -- in addition to 
requesting a meeting with Tshisekedi, urged the 
AFC coordinator, Corneille Nangaa, and former 
president, Joseph Kabila, to stop being 
complicit in the massacres and the 
delivery of national lands and 
resources to foreign forces.
 
“Congolese blood can no longer be shed with their 
complicity. No ambition is worth the price of the 
suffering of an entire people”, he said.
 
 
_______________________________________________


AU congratulated Democratic Congo 
& Liberia on election to UN Council
June 4th, 10:31am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud 
Ali Youssouf, today congratulated the Democratic 
Republic of the Congo and Liberia on their 
election ---- as non-permanent members 
of the United Nations Security Council.
 
The two nations join Somalia to represent the African 
Group for the period 2026-2027, said a statement 
from the continental organization.
 
Youssouf, the text added, praised the democratic 
processes that led to the election of these two 
Member States, underlining the confidence of 
the international community - in its ability to 
contribute significantly to the maintenance 
of global peace and security.
 
That choice comes at a time when Africa's voice and 
leadership are more vital than ever - in providing 
effective responses to complex international 
challenges to international stability, 
he noted.
 
He further highlighted that, as members of the “A3” of the 
Security Council, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, 
Liberia and Somalia have a collective responsibility to 
promote the African Union's positions on key issues 
in this regard.
 
The Chairman of the AU Commission - expressed the body's 
confidence in its coordinated and principled leadership in 
defending African interests -- promoting multilateralism
and
 ensuring that the continent's priorities are heard
and 
respected ---- at the highest levels of global 
decision-making.
 
He also thanked the outgoing members of the A3 
(Algeria and Sierra Leone) for their dedicated 
service, unwavering commitment --- and 
effective advocacy, during his tenure.
 
The African Union Commission, reiterated its full support 
for the new A3 members and reaffirms its commitment 
to working closely with them to strengthen Africa's 
role in global governance, in accordance with the 
principles of pan-African solidarity and the 
aspirations of the 2063 Agenda, the 
statement concluded.
 
 
_________________________
 
 
 
Portuguese Language Day --- union
 beyond borders according to UA
June 4th, 6:27am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The vice president of the African Union Commission (UA), 
Selma Malika Haddadi, highlighted the celebration of
 Portuguese Language Day ---- as an occasion that 
unites beyond borders and cultural differences 
--- a statement revealed today.
 
Haddadi, at the event held the day before at the AU 
headquarters, specified --- that the Portuguese 
language... “is a vessel of a shared history, 
a diverse culture and lasting solidarity 
that spans the continents from Lisbon
 to Luanda, Brasilia to Maputo, Dili to 
Bissau, Macau... to the beautiful 
islands of Cape Verde, and 
Sao Tome and Principe”.
 
It is a language that married into Africa's rich heritage 
----- to give birth to poetry, music, literature and 
storytelling, reflecting the unique nuances 
of nations that have it as their official 
language, he added.
 
He recalled that, since 1984, it has been one of the 
working languages of the Organization of African 
Unity, predecessor of the African Union. As a 
multilingual and multicultural institution, 
the continental organization continues 
to promote the use and learning of 
Portuguese, with the invaluable 
aid of the Cames Institute, 
he stressed.
 
In 2010, he continued, the Conference and Publications
 Management Directorate... introduced an electronic 
system to streamline translation services. Since 
then, more than 200 thousand pages of official 
documents have been translated into 
Portuguese, which underlines our 
commitment --- to linguistic 
inclusion, he stated.
 
The vice president of the AU Commission highlighted that, 
to strengthen cultural and linguistic ties between African 
nations, and in collaboration with the esteemed Cames 
Institute, the Department of Human Resources 
Management - successfully launched an 
intensive eight-week Portuguese 
language course.
 
Held from March 16 to June 11, the course uses the UA
 e-learning platform and has the active participation
 of 21 officials.
 
As enshrined in Agenda 2063 -- the African Union embraces 
Africa's diversity as a strength, he emphasized. Language 
is a central element of identity, inclusion & participation, 
a spirit shared by the continental organization and the 
Community of Portuguese Language Countries, as 
engines of unity and development.
 
He urged ----- to continue taking advantage of language as a 
bridge - between communities and institutions. Investment 
in multilingual education, translation and inclusive digital 
platforms will ensure that all our working languages, 
including Portuguese, remain accessible and 
empowered for future generations, 
he concluded.
 
 
______________________________________
 
 
 
South Africa and Lesotho -- 
strengthen trade relations
June 4th, 6:09am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Competition of 
South Africa (dtic) and the Ministry of Commerce, 
Lesotho Industry and Business Development 
agreed to strengthen bilateral trade 
and investment.
 
According to an official statement, the Lesotho Ministry
 is currently on a week-long fact-finding mission to 
South Africa on the regulatory framework and 
mechanism to boost trade deals.
 
Likewise, to exchange experiences on the best way 
to take advantage of trade agreements to promote
growth and development.
 
As explained by Xolelwa Mlumbi-Peter, Deputy Director 
General of Commerce at the dtic, the importance of 
sharing strategies for building resilience.... amid 
radical changes in global trade, is timely and 
can also boost the region's dynamism.
 
Earlier this year, the Ministry recalled, the heads of 
Commerce and Industry of both parties signed a 
Memorandum of Understanding during the 
Bi-national Commission (CBN), which 
offers an ideal platform to promote 
mutually beneficial commercial 
and investment relationships.
 
“We welcome the commitment between our two countries to 
collaborate to diversify production and take advantage of 
the trade agreements, of which, the Southern African 
Customs Union (SACU) is a part ----- they offer an 
effective platform to access global markets”, 
stated Mlumbi-Peter.
 
Both sides also agreed to strengthen cooperation on cross-
border standards and value chains in sectors such as 
automotives, clothing and textiles, cosmetics and 
essential oils, cannabis, fruits and vegetables, 
and leather and meat products, the 
text continues.
 
Furthermore, he concludes, both sides agreed to prioritize 
the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade 
Area & work together to conclude pending negotiations,
particularly in sectors such as clothing, textiles and 
automotives, which provide potential benefits for 
the growth of the economies of both countries.
 
 
__________________________________________
 
 
 
Law being drafted will protect
 local products in Ethiopia 
June 4th, 6:02am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The director general of the Ethiopian Intellectual Property
Authority, Woldu Yemessel, highlighted today the crucial 
role...... of the Geographical Indications Law ------ in the 
protection & promotion of local agricultural products.
 
Yemessel specified --- that products such as coffee, teff, honey, 
& fruits & spices are intrinsically linked to the land & culture
but run the risk of misappropriation, misrepresentation
and 
undervaluation in the global market ------
without 
effective legal support.
 
In this sense, he stressed, (IG) geographical indications are a
crucial way to safeguard intellectual property --- and a well-
established framework ensures that Ethiopian farmers 
and producers benefit from the authenticity and 
exclusivity of their products.
 
GIs are a sign used in products with a specific origin and 
with qualities, or reputation, associated with that place.
 
This topic is the centre of a two-day international conference 
that concludes this day here, and during which the Minister 
of Innovation and Technology Belete Molla, offered details 
of the legal framework.
 
Taking into account the firm commitment of the Ethiopian 
government to this cause, Molla explained that they are 
developing a specific law as part of the broader 
intellectual property reform agenda and the 
accession process ----- to the WTO.
 
These regulations will contribute to guaranteeing traceability
 and authenticity for consumers, empowering value chain
 actors and rural communities, it will protect against 
unfair competition and manipulation, and improve 
the market value and export potential of 
Ethiopian products, he announced.
 
 
____________________________________
 
 
 
Contributions of geographical
 indications to Ethiopian 
products stand out 
June 4th, 5:43am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The geographical indication system will allow coffee, honey, 
ethiopia's ceramics and other distinctive high-quality 
heritage products add value and thrive, an official 
source said during an event concluding today.
 
This was expressed by the director general of the World 
Intellectual Property Organization (OMPI), Daren Tang, 
when speaking at the International Conference on 
Geographical Indications (IG).
 
Tang specified that the IG is a means to promote employment,
 attract investments ----- and take advantage of development. 
“That's why it's so exciting... to see Ethiopia move towards 
geologics legislation, providing producers with additional 
social and economic protection”, he said.
 
He further considered the progress of the African 
Continental Free Trade Area, in driving 
development goals -- and sharing 
Addis Ababa's rich heritage 
with the world.
 
He reaffirmed WIPO's commitment to play its role and 
continue to collaborate with the African nation... on 
its path to a robust geographical indication system.
 
 
________________________________________


 Sudan’s New Prime Minister - Dissolves 
Caretaker Government Amid Ongoing 
Conflict
June 2nd, 2:08pm
(teleSUR)
 
Sudanese Prime Minister Kamil Idris has dissolved the 
country’s caretaker government, just one day after 
taking office, marking a significant shift in 
Sudan’s leadership.
 
Idris, the first prime minister since the 2021 military coup,
 was sworn in on Saturday, pledging to prioritize national 
security, stability, and reconstruction.
 
Since April 2023, Sudan has been engulfed in a civil war, with 
violent clashes between the military and the paramilitary 
Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The conflict has resulted
 in at least 24,000 deaths, although estimates 
suggest the toll is far higher.
 
More than 14 million people have been displaced, including 
over 4 million who fled to neighbouring countries. The war 
has been marked by mass atrocities, including ethnically 
motivated killings and sexual violence, particularly in 
Darfur, where famine has been declared --- in 
multiple locations.


In his first speech as prime minister, Idris urged countries 
supporting the RSF --- to cease “criminal operations” 
and vowed to serve Sudan with sincerity 
and dedication.
 
While no timeline has been given for appointing a new 
government, Idris’s move signals a potential political 
reorganization in Sudan’s fragile landscape.
 
 

____________________________________________
 
 
 
 Flooding in Nigeria’s Mokwa 
Leaves 200 Dead,
500 Missing
June 2nd, 2:03pm
(teleSUR)
 
At least 200 people have died and 500 remain missing after
 devastating floods swept through Mokwa, Niger State, 
following torrential rains last week.
 
Local authorities have called off rescue operations, 
fearing that no more survivors will be found.
 
The disaster, described as the worst flooding in the region
 in six decades, has displaced over 3,000 people, 
destroyed two roads and collapsed two 
bridges ------ severely disrupting 
transportation and trade.
 
 
Mokwa, a major agricultural hub, is where northern Nigerian 
farmers sell produce to traders from the south. The floods 
have devastated local markets, further exacerbating
 food insecurity.
 
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu expressed condolences 
to affected families, directing emergency relief efforts 
to accelerate recovery.
 
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) - has 
begun distributing aid, while officials warn that inadequate 
drainage infrastructure has worsened the crisis.
 
Scientists attribute Nigeria’s increasing flood disasters
to 
climate change, noting that extreme weather
events are 
becoming more frequent
and intense.
 


_______________________________________
 
 

Measures are adopted -- in the 
epicentre province of cholera 
in Angola
June 2nd, 12:57pm
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The province of Namibe, today the epicentre of the cholera 
epidemic in Angola, adopts measures to contain the 
advance of the disease, with more than 2,200 
registered cases and 48 deaths.
 
The vice governor for the Political, Social and Economic 
sector of the territory, Abel do Rosário Kapitango, 
responded to Prensa Latina that in the last 24 
hours, 83 new patients were certified and, 
although the figure is high, there is a 
decreasing trend.
 
He considered the active search for cases as one of the key 
points of the confrontation, in which the province's health 
teams work with the support of professionals sent by 
the Ministry of Health (Minsa).
 
Likewise, he mentioned the beginning of vaccination against 
cholera as an important action, based on the delivery of 
eight thousand doses given to Namibe by the Minsa.
 
Do Rosário Kapitango explained that the coastal strip is 
the most affected by the epidemic and specified that
 very vulnerable communities have been identified 
in these areas due to poor hygiene and access 
conditions to drinking water, hence among 
the actions the transfer of these people 
to safer areas is promoted.
 
He said that there is some resistance on a part of these 
populations, but the authorities... continue trying to 
persuade through dialogue, about the importance 
of continuing with this relocation.
 
In this regard, he pointed out that the new locations 
provide drinking water, food and some other issues, 
but acknowledged that these are emergency 
measures; that the fundamental thing is to 
continue working to guarantee a greater 
supply of quality water to communities.
 
Namibe is the Angolan territory where it rains the least 
and drought affects the populations quite intensely, 
therefore, among the Government's priority 
projects is the increase in connection 
to distribution networks.
 
Currently 40 percent of residents in densely populated 
areas do not have water connections, therefore, they 
have set themselves the challenge of increasing the 
collection of the liquid and installing 31,000 new 
connections until 2027, the vice governor 
pointed out.
 
Since the cholera epidemic was declared in Angola on 
January 7, almost the entire country has had the 
presence of the disease and the number of 
registered cases exceeded 24,000, with 
718 deaths.
 
This is the largest outbreak in recent years in the nation, 
which is among the most affected on the continent... 
along with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, 
Sudan and South Sudan.
 

 
__________________________________________________
 
 
 
Preparations revealed ----- for 
general elections in Ethiopia
June 2nd, 12:43pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) reported 
today on the preliminary actions underway for the 7th 
general elections scheduled next year in the 
African country.
 
NEBE President Melatwork Hailu explained that 
Proclamation No. 1162/2019 --- of the Code of 
Electoral Conduct, Registration of Political
 Parties and Elections, as amended, was 
presented to the House of People's 
Representatives for approval.
 
Hailu revealed that the provisions of the document include 
the virtual registration of candidates from anywhere.
 
He also announced the preparations of over 50,000
polling stations, to make them favorable for the 
electorate throughout the country.... as well 
as the online recruitment of officials who 
will participate in the elections.
 
 
 
____________________________________________



 Ghana beat Trinidad and Tobago
 in Unity Cup football
May 31st, 11:21am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Ghana beat Trinidad and Tobago 4-0 today and took 
third place in the Unity Cup soccer match for 
Afro-Caribbean teams.
 
The Black Stars relied on veteran captain Jordan Ayew, who 
opened the scoring in the sixth minute with a shot from 
outside the area and assisted Razak Simpson... to 
double the lead in the 12th.
 
The Leicester City striker gave another assist for the third, 
scored by Mohammed Fuseini, in the 41st minute, and 
the score was closed by Jabari St Hillaire's own 
goal in the 58th minute.
 
For Simpson and Fuseini they were their first
 goals...... with their country's national team.
 
Ghana did not have several important players ----- including Iñaki 
Williams, from Spanish Athletic Bilbao; Mohammed Kudus, from 
West Ham; Antoine Semenyo, from Bournemouth, and Thomas 
Partey, from Arsenal, these last three - in the English League.
 
''It's always good to look to the future and some of the guys 
took advantage of their opportunities and did really well,''
winning coach, Otto Addo said, after the game.
 
Later, the Unity final will be held in the British town
 of Brentford --- after a 21-year hiatus, between 
Jamaica and Nigeria.
 
 
___________________________________________
 
 

''Paramilitaries'' bomb hospitals and
neighbourhoods in El Obeid, Sudan
May 31st, 7:13am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
With heavy artillery, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF, English) 
today bombed 2 hospitals and residential neighbourhoods 
in the city of El Obeid, in the state of North Kordofan, 
central Sudan.
 
At least six people died and others were injured 
as a result of the attack, a military source
confirmed --- cited here by the media.
 
The administration of the Al-Daman hospital, affected by 
the bombing, announced its departure from service
''until further notice'' - as doctors make efforts to 
contain a cholera outbreak in Sudan's capital.
 
The director general of the World Health Organization, Tedros 
Adhanom Ghebreyesus, he expressed his ''horror'', for the 
attack and urged to stop attacks against healthcare 
facilities ----- and protect all infrastructure and 
its personnel.
 
The cholera epidemic spreads in Khartoum, where dozens 
of citizens died this week --- and doctors face difficulties
 treating patients amid supply shortages and cholera's 
rapid spread.
 
At the time, the director of the International Rescue Committee
 in Sudan, Etizaz Yousif, stated that the country is on the brink 
of a widespread public health catastrophe.
 
For its part, the World Food Program announced that one of 
its facilities was hit and suffered significant damage - due 
to frequent bombing by the RSF.
 
 
____________________________________________
 
 
 
They reaffirm commitment to inclusive 
participatory dialogue ---- in Ethiopia 
May 31st, 4:46am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission (ENDC) 
reaffirmed its commitment --- to ensuring that the 
ongoing process is inclusive and participatory 
during a  federal level consultation meeting 
that continues today.
 
Chief Commissioner Mesfin Araya --- underlined the 
determination of the ENDC, in close collaboration 
with interested parties, to meet the aspirations 
of the Ethiopian people and find lasting 
solutions -------- to the country's 
fundamental challenges.
 
Araya explained - that the incorporation of the Regional State of 
Tigray in the national dialogue and the meeting of contributions 
from the diaspora are fundamental priorities for the Commission.
 
He reiterated the willingness of that institution to play its role 
in fostering a debate --- that addresses the root causes of the 
country's problems through broad participation and inclusion.
 
He urged -- religious leaders, elders, political parties, media 
organizations, civic and professional associations, public 
figures, influential people and democratic and law 
enforcement institutions --- to contribute 
significantly to the success of this 
historic national dialogue.
 
For its part, commissioner Ambaye Ogato said the time 
has come for Ethiopia and its citizens to take bold and 
courageous steps to resolve the nation's complex 
challenges ---- through an inclusive debate.
 
Ogato called on the entire population to take over the process 
----- by contributing their knowledge, experience and time.
 
The ENDC, established on February 23, 2022, is responsible for 
facilitating dialogue on the country's most pressing issues. 
 
Since its inception, it has carried out extensive preparatory 
activities, including agenda meeting in different regions
 and social segments.
 
 
 
_____________________________________________
 
 
 
Links with Italy -- and confrontation
 with Mpox marked Ethiopia week
May 31st, 4:45am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The success... of the working visit by Prime Minister 
Abiy Ahmed to Italy, as well as the health actions 
implemented... in response to the detection of 
the Mpox virus, marked the week that ends 
today in Ethiopia.
 
Ahmed, leading a high-level delegation, completed a 
work agenda last Monday that included a meeting 
with Pope Leo XIV, official conversations with 
his Italian counterpart, Giorgia Meloni, and 
evaluations of joint projects with the 
Webuild Group, a company that
specializes in the design and 
construction of large 
infrastructures
 
Ethiopian Finance Minister Ahmed Shide stated that in
 extensive talks with the Supreme Pontiff both sides 
agreed to strengthen collaboration on education, 
world peace and bilateral and multi-
lateral commitments.
 
The Vatican also reaffirmed its commitment to 
supporting the educational development of 
the African country, he stressed.
 
Shide, in the case of the meeting with Meloni, stated that
 it focused on key bilateral issues that highlighted the
 growing collaboration between the two nations, 
with special emphasis on continued Italian 
support for economic reforms, energy 
development ------- and overall 
Ethiopian growth.
 
He highlighted -- the constant increase in Italian aid to the 
development of Addis Ababa in recent years. In addition, 
he revealed that both governments signed agreements
 in several critical areas, such as green development, 
urban infrastructure and macroeconomic reform.
 
The African minister revealed that investment was also 
a central issue in the talks, about which he stressed 
that the favorable investment climate in the country 
represented an opportunity........ to increase 
Rome's participation.
 
Both heads of government reaffirmed their commitment 
to promoting cooperation in sectors such as energy, 
infrastructure and finance, he added.
 
On the other hand, Ahmed met with the executive director 
of the Webuild Group, Pietro Salini. During the debate, 
the African leader invited the Italian company to 
expand its investments in priority sectors 
such as housing, energy, mining and 
fertilizer production.
 
Salini expressed the European company's willingness to 
undertake large-scale projects aligned with Ethiopia's 
development goals.
 
Another important health issue was the intensification of 
efforts by sector authorities to control the spread of the 
Mpox virus detected - so far - only in the town from 
Moyale, Oromia region, with 3 confirmed cases.
 
 
___________________________________________
 
 
 
Angola tries for the second successful
 day in the swimming championship
May 31st, 3:54am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Angolan national swimming team will launch today 
at the Alvalade pool in Luanda to seek a successful 
second day in the international championship of 
the sport called Independence Tournament.
 
The day before, the team won 20 medals, of which six 
were gold, five silver and nine bronze -- placing them
in second place by country, after Namibia (9-5-2) &
followed in the South Africa medal table, which on 
the first day of competition obtained three gold
 medals, three silver metals and one bronze.
 
For Angola, the most prominent figure -- was the young Santiago
 Guimarães, only 14 years old, who took home 3 gold medals 
for his performance in the 50 meter butterfly (27.32), in the
 100 metre backstroke (1:08.12) and in the 100 metres
 freestyle (56.07).
 
The Independence Tournament began this Friday with the 
participation of around 150 swimmers from Angola, 
South Africa, Namibia, Mozambique, Zambia, 
Portugal and Cape Verde.
 
The competition runs until tomorrow and is 
dedicated to the 50 years of national 
independence.
 
The host country has a team of 26 swimmers 
in the women's and men's categories.
 
This is the third international competition organized by 
the Angolan Swimming Federation in three years, 
the most recent - the All Africa Championships
 in 2024.
 



___________________________________________



African Union Issues Urgent Warning 
Cholera Surges Across 20 Countries
May 30th, 2:05pm
(teleSUR)
 
The African Union’s public health agency has sounded a critical 
alarm over a surging cholera outbreak, with 127,409 cases and 
at least 2,597 deaths recorded so far this year, marking one of 
the worst epidemics in recent memory.
 
Ngashi Ngongo, Executive Director of Africa CDC, confirmed that 
efforts are underway to coordinate a continent-wide response
 to tackle the rapidly spreading disease.
 
We are scaling up our response to a 
fast-spreading #cholera outbreak.
 
Drawing on lessons from the #mpox response ---- we’re working 
with partners to activate a coordinated, cross-border strategy 
focused on surveillance, lab systems, vaccine access, and 
health system resilience. See… pic.twitter.com/pZlUi5Ivqv
 
— Africa CDC (@AfricaCDC) May 27, 2025
 
“The situation is highly concerning. We need a unified strategy, 
not isolated country responses—just as we did with mpox,” 
Ngongo stated.
 
Between January and May 2025, cholera’s mortality rate ---- has 
reached 2%, surpassing the critical threshold set by the World 
Health Organization (WHO). The disease ---- caused by
 contaminated food and water, has thrived in areas
facing 
humanitarian crises, water shortages,
and poor 
sanitation infrastructure.
 
Africa CDC reports that four countries—DRC, Angola, Sudan, and 
South Sudan—account for 83% of infections and 92% of deaths. 
 
Sudan is experiencing an especially dire crisis, with 70 fatalities
 and 2,119 infections reported in just two days in Khartoum, 
amid ongoing civil war and healthcare system collapse.
 
Africa CDC is deploying specialized teams, medical supplies, 
and financial support to affected nations. Inspired by the 
2022–2023 mpox containment model, the agency is 
pushing for cross-border interventions and 
collaborative national strategies to halt
a further spread.
 
Though treatable, cholera remains highly lethal without timely 
care, causing rapid dehydration and death within hours —
especially in communities lacking health services.
 
With children and adults alike at risk, Africa’s ability to combat 
this outbreak hinges on expanding access to clean water,
sanitation, and emergency medical care, all of which 
remain structural challenges for many regions.
 
 
 
______________________________________
 
 
 
 
Deadly Crash in Libyan Desert 
Claims Lives of Sudanese
Migrants
May 30th, 1:51pm
(teleSUR)
 
Eleven Sudanese migrants and a Libyan driver were killed 
in a fatal collision between their vehicle and a truck - 90 
kilometres north of Kufra, Libyan authorities confirmed.
 
The victims included three women and two children, 
while a 65-year-old man and his 10-year-old son 
were injured in the crash.
 
This tragedy follows another deadly incident, earlier this
month, when seven Sudanese migrants died after their
vehicle broke down, leaving 34 stranded for days in
the desert.
 
Libya, plunged into chaos after the 2011 NATO-backed uprising 
that ousted Muammar Gaddafi, has become a major transit 
point for migrants fleeing war and poverty in Africa 
and the Middle East.
 
The country’s porous borders with Chad, Niger, Sudan, Egypt, 
Algeria, and Tunisia have enabled human traffickers to 
exploit instability, smuggling migrants into Libya
 in hopes of reaching Europe.
 
Since Sudan’s civil war erupted in 2023, thousands have fled 
to Libya, escaping violence, displacement, and famine, as
 the conflict continues to devastate the region.
 
 
_________________________________________________



Russian Ambassador announces work 
on creating a Russian military base 
in the Central African Republic
May 29th, 10:30pm
(Izvestia.ru)
 
Russia  -- hopes to reach an agreement with the Central African 
Republic on the deployment of a military base on its territory, 
the project is at the stage of interdepartmental elaboration, 
and the parties are discussing mutually acceptable 
conditions for its implementation. This was
reported to Izvestia by the Russian
Ambassador to Bangui... 
Alexander Bikantov.
 
"The issue of creating a military base in the Central African 
Republic --- is being worked out through the Ministry of 
Defense of the two countries. Mutually acceptable 
conditions for project implementation, are 
considered. We hope that in the future 
the parties will be able to reach the
necessary agreements," 
Bikantov said.
 
In March, Russian Deputy Defense Minister, Yunus-Bek 
Yevkurov, paid a working visit to the Central African 
Republic: he met with President Faustin-Arcange 
Touadera - and held talks with the Minister of 
National Defense and Army Reconstruction 
of the Central African Republic --- Claude 
Rameau Biro. During the visit --- it was 
agreed to expand cooperation in the 
defense and economic spheres.
 
The Russian side confirmed that it is ready
 to further assist the CAR authorities 
in strengthening security.


 
______________________________________


Personalities receive medal for 
50 years of independence 
of Angola
May 29th, 11:07am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of Angola, Joao Lourenco, today presided over 
the ceremony for the presentation of commemorative medals 
for the 50 years of national independence, which on this 
occasion will receive almost 700 personalities.
 
The decoration ceremony began this Thursday and took place
 in two sessions, during the morning and afternoon, due to 
the high number of people --- who received the award for
 their contributions to the country in different spheres.
 
In total there are 698 who were recognized, some posthumously, 
with the commemorative medals of the Independence class, 
and Peace and Development; of which 331 will be awarded 
this Friday in the continuation of the tributes.
 
This second award ceremony began with the distinction to 
María Eugenia Neto, widow of Dr. António Agostinho Neto, 
who was the first president of the country.
 
The writer was also not on the first award date, which took 
place on April 4, and during which 247 personalities 
received the award for their contribution to the
 liberation and development of the country.
 
Likewise, on this occasion the career of guerrillas, nationalists, 
artists, communicators and athletes was highlighted, among 
whom were names such as Adérito Bermiro Correa, Alves
 Bernardo Baptista “Nito Alves”, and musical bands like 
Jóvenes de Prenda and Kissanguela.
 
 
_____________________________________________
 
 
 
Cuba's support --- for the liberation of 
Southern Africa stands out in Angola 
May 29th, 11:48am
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
Various personalities today highlighted Cuba's role in the 
liberation of Southern Africa and the fall of apartheid, 
during an international conference in Luanda, 
capital of Angola.
 
The Minister of Telecommunications, Information 
Technologies and Social Communication - Mário 
Oliveira, who was in charge of the inauguration
 of the Conference on the Role of Frontline 
Countries in the Total Liberation of 
Southern Africa, highlighted the
fundamental military actions
 and Cuban support.
 
In particular he referred to the Battle of Cuito Cuanavale, 
whose triumph on March 23, 1988 marked the definitive 
turning point for the establishment of the agreements
 that led to the liberation of Namibia and accelerated 
the fall of apartheid.
 
General António dos Santos França “Ndalu”, for his part, he 
highlighted the prominence of the Armed Forces for the 
Liberation of Angola (Fapla) in combative actions 
with the support of Cuba and the then Union 
of Soviet Socialist Republics.
 
It meant that Cuito Cuanavale not only involved the withdrawal 
of South African military forces from Angolan territory and the
 maintenance of its integrity, but was crucial to Namibia's 
independence.
 
Former Mozambican president Joaquim Chissano also referred 
to the relevance of frontline countries for the overthrow of the 
colonial and racist apartheid regime that prevailed in South 
Africa, just as he highlighted the help of nations such as
 Algeria and Cuba.
 
Chissano highlighted the actions of countries such 
as Tanzania and Zambia, which prevented the 
expansion of apartheid in Angola 
and Mozambique.
 
The Conference, which took place this Thursday, at the 
Talatona Convention Centre, is part of the celebrations 
for the 50 years of Angola's independence and was 
sponsored by the Ministry of Telecommunications,
Information Technology & Social Communication,
 with the support of Ediciones Noviembre.
 
The minister of the branch - in his inaugural words, 
emphasized that his purpose is not only to honour 
the actions and heroes of the past, likewise, it is 
proposed to call for collective consciousness 
and look to the future, he said.
 
The meeting, held in hybrid format (in-person and virtual), 
included panels dedicated to the Role of Frontline 
Countries; Internationalist Military Articulation 
in the Liberation of Southern Africa; and the 
Role of Diplomacy... in the Liberation of
the 
Southern African Countries.
 
The event brought together representatives of liberation 
movements and veterans of the fight against apartheid, 
government representatives and diplomats, historians, 
researchers and academics from Africa and other 
countries such as Mozambique, Namibia,
 Russia and Cuba.
 
In addition to the panels, the event included the screening 
of documentaries, a photographic exhibition and the sale
 of books, essentially focused on the conference theme.
 
 
 
____________________________________________
 
 
 
South African Reserve Bank
 reduces repo rate
May 29th, 11:13am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Monetary Policy Committee of the Reserve Bank of 
South Africa (SARB) reduced the repo rate by 25 basis 
points, with effect from tomorrow the 30th.
 
This reduces the preferential rate 
on bank loans to 10.75 percent.
 
The repo rate, specialists recall, is an interest rate 
used by central banks to manage liquidity and
 control inflation.
 
It refers to the rate at which commercial banks can 
borrow short-term funds from a central bank, with 
a commitment to repurchase it at a slightly 
higher price.
 
As stated today by the governor of the SARB, Lesetja 
Kganyago, when presenting the statement from the
 Monetary Policy Committee, in the future the 
previous inflation forecasts... have been
 revised downwards.
 
This reflects the lower starting point, as well as an 
assumption of a stronger exchange rate and
 lower global oil prices, he added.
 
These factors offset the pressure on fuel costs arising 
from the fuel tax increase announced in the Budget. 
In addition, our previous forecast included VAT 
increases, which have now been cancelled, 
the official added
 
In South Africa, inflation returned to 
below 3.0 percent in April 2025.
 
“Now that inflation has slowed, we have the opportunity 
to ensure lower inflation... at low cost. This scenario 
illustrates that opportunity”, Kganyago continued.
 
While the inflation outlook appears favorable, the 
Monetary Policy Committee considered an 
adverse scenario, illustrating the 
upside risks.
 
Thus, South Africa's (PIB) Gross Domestic Product 
projections were cut and growth is expected to 
stand at 1.2 percent this year, increasing to 
1.8 percent by 2027.
 
The global environment remains difficult, making domestic 
reform.... crucial to achieving strong growth. The main 
contribution of the SARB - is to achieve price stability, 
and in that aspect there is some room to consolidate 
lower inflation & pave the way towards sustainably
 lower interest rates, Kganyago said.
 
“Other measures that would improve economic conditions 
include achieving a prudent level of public debt, 
continuing to renew and strengthen network 
industries, reduce managed price inflation 
and keep real wage growth in line with 
productivity gains”, he concluded.
 
 
___________________________________________
 
 

Guides on Labour Migration 2025 
approved in South Africa
May 29th, 10:41am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Council of Ministers of South Africa approved the 
so-called White Paper on the National Labour 
Migration Policy (PNML) 2025 for immediate 
implementation.
 
As stated at a press conference in this capital by the 
Minister of the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, 
this represents a significant step in the regulation 
of the movement and employment of foreigners 
in South Africa.
 
“Its goal --- is to strike a balance in various areas, including 
addressing South Africans' expectations for job prospects, 
given the increase in unemployment and the perception
 that foreigners restrict access to the labour market”, 
the official explained.
 
The new Policy introduces quotas on the total number of 
foreigners documented with work visas who can be 
employed in important economic sectors such as 
agriculture, hospitality and tourism, as well as 
construction, among others.
 
The provision, he explained, complements other government 
interventions on the issue such as the application of a list 
of sectors in which business visas cannot be granted 
to foreigners.
 
It also welcomes amendments -- to the National Small Business 
Act 1996 (Law 102 of 1996), as amended, to limit the creation 
of small, medium and micro businesses, and trade in certain 
sectors of the economy by foreigners, added the Minister.
 
 
 
__________________________________________
 
 
 
Between achievements and 
challenges, the Sahrawi 
cause advances 
May 29th, 9:51am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The achievements of the Polisario Front are innumerable, 
of great significance on the path towards the supreme 
objective of achieving total independence of the 
Sahrawi people and Western Sahara, stated 
today the ambassador to Argentina, 
Mohamed Ali.
 
The representative of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic 
(RASD) is a central figure at the II International Conference
 of Journalists and Media in Solidarity with the Sahrawi
 Cause that takes place in Buenos Aires and that 
concludes on Friday.
 
Among the main achievements in this fight against colonialism, 
first in Spain and now against which the monarchy of Morocco 
intensifies, Ali cited in statements to Prensa Latina the 
creation of the Polisario Front and the subsequent 
proclamation of the SADR.
 
The formation of the brave and combative Sahrawi army 
(ELPS), with great mobility and innovation in guerrilla 
warfare, that it has inflicted severe defeats first on 
Spanish colonialism and then on the Moroccan 
and Mauritanian occupier ----- is another 
achievement, the diplomat noted.
 
Besides, he referred to «the solid and firm organization that 
allowed the unity of the people to solidify and make the 
Sahrawis who fled their land have the possibility of 
enjoying the services more basic, such as food, 
health and education, which is bilingual, 
Arabic and Spanish.
 
Western Sahara is the only Spanish-speaking Arab country and 
along with Equatorial Guinea the only two Spanish-speaking 
nations in Africa, he noted and thanked Cuba for its 
educational cooperation to ensure the teaching 
of Cervantes' language, mainly among 
children and young people.
 
This collaboration was fundamental in the literacy campaign, 
which has been one of the greatest achievements of the 
SADR that placed the Sahrawi nation at the forefront
 in this sphere, on the continent.
 
An active diplomacy that has obtained recognition from the 
Sahrawi State by 84 countries, of which 29 are Latin 
American, is another success. Today the SADR is 
a full member of the African Union, meanwhile, 
for the UN and the EU, the Polisario Front, is 
the legitimate representative of the people 
of Western Sahara who have the right to 
self-determination, Ali asserted.
 
In the judicial field where we deal with illegal plundering 
by the Moroccan occupier and third countries that buy 
what was stolen ---- such as phosphates, fishing, and
agriculture - he noted - we are also in the battle for 
control of our airspace.
 
 
______________________________________


Israeli ambassador expelled 
from a university in Senegal
May 28th, 3:09pm
(Prensa Latina) 


In repudiation of the Zionist aggression against Palestine, 
Senegalese students booed Israeli ambassador Yuval 
Waks and expelled him from the grounds of Cheikh 
Anta Diop University, it was reported here today.


The Tel Aviv diplomat was supposed to attend a conference 
on international relations yesterday but was forced to leave 
the university campus by students carrying banners with 
slogans such as “Free Palestine” and “No to genocide.”


Local media reported today that the students opposed their 
university being used as a platform to justify Israeli actions 
and demanded an end to the war in Gaza and equal rights 
for the Palestinian people.


Political observers note that Wednesday marks 600 days 
since the Zionist military invasion of Gaza, which has
devastated the Palestinian enclave, killing over
 54,000 people ----- in a barbaric act of 
ethnic cleansing.



_____________________________________________________



Cuban General Awarded Medal 
for Angolan Independence
May 28th, 3:06pm
 (Prensa Latina) 


President Joao Lourenco -- decided to award the 
commemorative medal for the 50th anniversary 
of Angolan independence in the Independence 
category, to Cuban Army Corps General 
Leopoldo Cintra Frias, the 
Presidency announced.


This is the second Cuban to receive this recognition, as
 Cuban Brigadier General Rafael Moracen Limonta was 
previously posthumously awarded with the Peace & 
Development Class medal among the first group of 
148 people to receive it.


General Moracen, a Hero of the Republic of Cuba, received 
Angolan nationality in 2014 for his contribution to that 
country’s independence, a service record in which 
he highlighted the military training he provided 
to those fighting Portuguese colonialism.


Meanwhile, Army Corps General Cintra Frias, who served as 
Minister of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Cuba from 
2011 to 2021, served on an internationalist mission in 
Angola at various times and led decisive combat 
actions for the preservation of the country’s 
independence and integrity.


He served as Commander of the Southern Front of the 
Southern Troop Group during the confrontation with 
the South African Army’s invasion in 1975–1976 
and assumed command of the Cuban Military 
Mission in the African nation, twice.


Among the military actions in which he participated 
were the Battle of Cuito Cuanavale and the 
Southwestern Front offensive in Angola.


He holds the honorary title of Hero of the Republic of Cuba,
 and, according to the local press, granting him the 
decoration -- is a fair recognition not only of his 
contributions to the Angolan cause, but also 
of those of the Caribbean nation’s people -- 
to Angola’s independence & sovereignty.



____________________________________________



South Africa at peace initiative 
meeting for Congo and Sudan
May 28th, 3:01pm
 (Prensa Latina) 


South Africa's Minister of International Relations and 
Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, is participating in a 
new round of meetings in Kampala, aimed at 
achieving peace in the Democratic 
Republic of the Congo.
 
According to a statement from the Foreign Ministry, the 12th 
Summit of the Regional Oversight Mechanism of the Peace, 
Security and Cooperation framework for the Democratic 
Republic of Congo seeks to address the structural 
causes of instability and armed violence -- in the 
east of the country and the Great Lakes region.


The meeting allows for the analysis of a set of shared
 commitments between the Democratic Republic of 
Congo, neighbouring countries -- and regional and 
international actors involved in peace initiatives, 
the statement details.


The Regional Oversight Mechanism, the Ministry recalls, 
is the main decision-making body of the Security and 
Cooperation Framework and meets annually to 
assess implementation of the commitments.


The Foreign Ministry explains in the document that 
the 12th summit is being held in the context of the
 deteriorating political, humanitarian, and security 
situation in eastern Democratic Republic of the
 Congo since the beginning of 2025.


The situation has been aggravated, by the resurgence and 
continued territorial expansion of the March 23 Movement 
(M23)/Congo River Alliance, with the support of “some 
external actors,” which has led to numerous deaths, 
humanitarian crises, and increased tensions in
the 
region, the Ministry adds.


The Regional Oversight Mechanism of the Peace, Security and 
Cooperation framework for the Democratic Republic of Congo 
is expected to adopt an action plan that will revitalize the 
Security Framework established since its adoption
 in 2013.


Participants at the meeting in the Ugandan capital 
will also reflect.. on the current conflict in Sudan 
& the complex political situation in South Sudan.



_________________________________________________



South African government works 
to reduce the cost of living
May 28th, 2:57pm
 (Prensa Latina)
 
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa assured that 
the government is working to alleviate the growing 
pressure of the cost of living on households, with 
special attention to protecting the most 
vulnerable citizens.
 
During an oral response session in the National Assembly 
(Parliament), the president emphasized - that combating 
poverty and the cost of living is a fundamental priority
 for the Government of National Unity (GNU) and 
a central pillar of the Medium-Term 
Development Plan.
 
However, in his remarks, Ramaphosa acknowledged the 
severe financial pressure faced by many South Africans, 
overwhelmed by an increase in the cost of the average
 food basket of nearly 40% above inflation in 
recent years.
 
The President highlighted the framework of the country’s 
macroeconomic policy, including a target inflation rate, 
as a key factor in stabilizing prices and reducing the 
burden on consumers.
 
In this regard, he reported progress, such as the fact that food 
price inflation fell from 12,7% at the end of 2022 to 2,2% in 
March 2025, while headline inflation, which averaged 
4,4% in 2024, moderated further, reaching 2,7% 
in March 2025.
 
To further protect low-income households, he added, 
the government maintains VAT exemptions on 
essential foods such as corn flour, whole-
wheat bread, rice, milk, eggs, and 
other staples.
 
 
 
_____________________________________



Ethiopian PM’s visit to Italy 
described as a success
May 28th, 11:24am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The recent working visit of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy 
Ahmed to Italy, during which he met with Pope Leo XIV 
and his counterpart, Giorgia Meloni, was a success, 
an official source affirmed on Wednesday.
 
Ethiopian Finance Minister Ahmed Shide stated that
 in extensive talks with the Supreme Pontiff on 
Monday, both sides agreed to strengthen 
collaboration on education, world 
peace --------- and bilateral and 
multilateral engagements.
 
Shide underscored that the Vatican also reaffirmed 
its commitment to supporting the educational 
development of the African country.
 
The finance minister specified that --- in the case of the 
meeting with Meloni, it focused on key bilateral issues 
that highlighted the growing collaboration between 
the two nations, with emphasis ---- on Italy’s 
continued support for economic reforms, 
energy development, and overall 
Ethiopian growth.
 
He stressed the steady increase in Italian development 
assistance to Addis Ababa in the last few years. He 
also revealed that the two governments signed 
agreements in several critical areas, such as 
green development, urban infrastructure, 
and macroeconomic reform.
 
Investment was also a leading theme in the talks, on which
 the minister underscored that the favorable investment 
climate in the country represented an opportunity 
to increase Rome’s involvement.
 
 
 
____________________________________________________





Former President Kabila meets 
social leaders in DRC’s Goma
May 28th, 10:12am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Joseph Kabila, former president of the Democratic 
Republic of Congo (DRC), meets on Wednesday 
with several social leaders in Goma, North 
Kivu, described as citizen consultations.
 
His collaborators said the meetings, taking place in 
an area controlled by the rebels of the Congo River 
Alliance – the March 23 Movement (AFC/M23), aim 
to gather the concerns and proposals of several
 sectors in response to the security challenges 
in eastern DRC.
 
Kabila expects to talk with politicians, administrators, 
and security agents, Goma authorities, socio-cultural 
groups, religious leaders, women’s organizations, 
the Federal Electoral Commission, traditional 
chiefs, and community leaders.
 
At the end of these consultations, the former 
president plans to hold a press briefing
 in Goma.
 
Kabila arrived in Goma on Sunday in defiance of the 
Kinshasa Government and the Senate’s decision to
remove his parliamentary immunity - which would 
allow prosecutions to be brought against him for 
alleged complicity with the Rwanda-backed 
AFC/M23.
 
 
__________________________________________
 
 
 
Worrying increase ---- in 
cholera cases in Sudan
May 28th, 9:13am
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
Cholera cases in Sudan increased worryingly in
 recent days, medical sources announced here.
 
The non-governmental organization Doctors 
Without Borders (MSF) reported the day 
before --- a new outbreak that has 
already infected some 2,500 
persons, including 
172 fatalities.
 
MFS also said, that the disease caused the main 
damage here in Khartoum and nearby Odurman, 
yet cases were detected in other provinces.
 
According to Sudan’s coordinator for MSF, Joyce 
Bakker, the epidemic began earlier this month 
and has grown in strength, with too many 
patients already in critical condition 
arriving at health centres.
 
The MSF official called for international assistance 
including new temporary health facilities, water 
and hygiene programs.
 
Cholera is a rapidly developing and highly contagious 
waterborne infectious disease, that causes diarrhea 
and leads to severe dehydration and possible death
--- within hours when left untreated, as reported by 
the World Health Organization on Wednesday.
 
 
 
_______________________________________________




CERF allocates 750,000 dollars
 to fight cholera in DRC
May 27th, 11:08am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) has allocated 
750,000 dollars to support the fight against the spread of 
cholera in Maniema and Tshopo provinces in the 
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), media 
reported on Tuesday.
 
The disease, which has surpassed 1,000 cases since early 
2025 and has spread to several provinces, was declared 
an epidemic in seven provinces.
 
In particular, cholera cases have increased in the 
health zones of Kindu, Alunguli (Maniema), and 
Opala (Tshopo).
 
The financial support went to the United Nations Children’s
 Fund (UNICEF), the World Health Organization (WHO), and 
its partners to improve access to safe water, sanitation
infrastructure, and hygiene services.
 
It also expected to contribute to strengthening the prevention 
and control of epidemics and ensure rapid treatment of 
affected populations, Actualite CD reported.
 
The report also refers to Bruno Lemarquis, the humanitarian 
coordinator in the DRC, who stressed that the activation of 
the cholera prevention framework demonstrates the 
relevance of this approach: intervene in time to 
contain the epidemic, protect communities, 
and avoid the aggravation of the health 
and humanitarian situation.
 
 
 
___________________________________
 
 
 
 
UNHCR to close offices 
in Angola --- this year
May 27th, 10:31am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees... 
(UNHCR) will close its offices in Angola before the 
end of 2025, local press reported on Tuesday.
 
UNHCR representative in the country, Emmanuelle Mitte, 
stated that the UN agency’s withdrawal should take 
place as of the last quarter of this year, which is 
due to the shortage of funds, caused by the 
decrease in donations and funding, 
Jornal de Angola reported.
 
Mitte explained that the global situation of financial limitations 
significantly affects UNHCR’s actions to assist refugees and 
its full operation, but assured that the closure of its offices 
will not affect the support to the Angolan Government in 
assisting more than 56,000 refugees in the country.
 
UNHCR is active in Angolan territory, mainly in the provinces of 
Luanda and Lunda-Norte, where more than 6,000 Congolese, 
displaced by violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo 
(DRC) in 2017 and settled in Lovua, remain in the latter.
 
The representative on Angolan territory specified that the 
embassies of the United Kingdom, France, and China
-  visited that locality to evaluate the refugees’ 
current situation and subsequently... 
define funds for their assistance.
 
 
 
___________________________________
 
 
 
 
South Africa: Financial management 
of biodiversity protection improved
May 27th, 9:43am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
South African National Parks (SANParks) 
launched its first Biodiversity Offset 
Bank ---- in the capital.
 
In a statement, the government organization emphasized that 
biodiversity offsets are a viable and innovative financing 
mechanism for the expansion and management of 
protected areas. “SANParks’ collective efforts to
 finance and secure the future of our nation’s 
extraordinary biodiversity are evident in 
this unique opportunity to expand our 
network of protected areas -- while 
driving economic development,” 
the statement noted.
 
The SANParks Biodiversity Offset Bank, the first of its kind in 
South Africa, offers the country the opportunity to expand 
and improve protected area management and help 
developers achieve their environmental, social, 
and governance objectives, while supporting 
the State ----- in promoting inclusive and 
sustainable economic growth.
 
SANParks’ Vision 2040 focuses on building sustainable, 
inclusive protected areas designed to intentionally 
benefit both people and the environment, the 
document highlights.
 
Its cornerstone is the development of living megascapes: 
large areas where conservation catalyzes social and 
economic development.
 
 
 
__________________________

 

Lavrov says: Russia will continue to support 
African countries ---- in the field of security 
May 26th, 2:45pm
(RT.ru)
 
Russia will continue to provide assistance to African 
countries in ensuring food security and security. 
This was stated on May 26, by Russian 
Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
 
He noted that, for many years, Russia has supported the African 
peoples in their struggle for freedom and independence, as 
well as actively contributed to the formation of young 
states and their socio-economic development. 
 
Lavrov stressed that the Russian side will continue to 
strengthen the position of Africa as an original and 
influential centre of global development.
 
"We will continue to provide assistance to interested African 
countries -- in strengthening their defense capabilities and
countering terrorism, ensuring food and energy security,"
 the Minister said, at a reception ------- on the occasion 
of Africa Day.
 
Lavrov said on March 6, that Russia will continue to increase 
its assistance, in particular, in training military personnel in 
Africa, strengthening law enforcement agencies to 
increase the ability of African friends to fight the 
threats of terrorism, drug trafficking, and 
organized crime in the region.
 
Earlier, on February the 11th, Russia's Presidential Special 
Representative for the Middle East and Africa, Deputy 
Foreign Minister, Mikhail Bogdanov, told Izvestia 
that Moscow is ready ---- to help strengthen 
African states' own anti-crisis potential.
 
He added ------ that Russia conducts annual 
training courses for African peacekeepers.


 
____________________________________________



Conference of the African Insurance
 Organization meets in Ethiopia
May 26th, 11:39am
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The Deputy Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Temesgen Tiruneh, 
today.. opened the 51st Annual Conference and General 
Assembly of the African Insurance Organization (AIO) 
with delegates from 93 countries, key players,
industry leaders and development partners.
 
Under the theme: “Balancing the Accounts: Africa’s debt 
problem: Why national debt affects insurers,” the event 
..running until May 28, marks an important milestone 
for insurance business on the continent.
 
With the dynamic business environment and rich cultural 
heritage of Ethiopia as a backdrop, the conclave 
provides a vital platform ----- for innovation, 
collaboration and strategic discussion
 in the insurance industry.
 
Emerging trends, regulatory developments and market 
opportunities are some of the topics that will be the 
focus of discussions.
 
The AIO Conference is widely recognized as Africa’s 
premier insurance gathering ------- and provides 
opportunities for networking and knowledge 
sharing with the aim of promoting financial 
inclusion ------- and economic growth.
 
 
 
__________________________________________
 
 
 
 
At least 40 killed in attack 
by gunmen in Nigeria
May 26th, 10:55am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
New attacks by armed groups in eastern Nigeria killed
 at least 40 people, local media reported here today.
 
This time the attack occurred over the weekend in 
localities of Katim-Lamido, in the state of Taraba, 
according to the Christian Association of 
Nigeria (CAN).
 
The attackers killed people and burned their homes, 
according to CAN officials who deplored these 
criminal acts that terrorize the north of the 
African country.
 
Dominic Hassan, community leader of Karim-Lamido, 
confirmed the fact --- and affirmed that the groups 
were armed with guns and other weapons, and 
arrived on motorcycles at dawn.
 
Official media added that in the last 16 years, 
inter-community clashes --- and attacks by 
''Islamist'' groups, have displaced more 
than two million people --- and killed 
thousands of civilians in Nigeria.
 
Local authorities also point out that these attacks are 
often related to the activities of groups such as Boko 
Haram --- which collect taxes from fishermen and 
farmers, and --- when they are unable to pay, 
they kill or kidnap them and then demand 
ransom from their families.
 
In northeastern Nigeria, several armed factions are 
active, taking advantage of the lack of security
in 
the region --- for their profit motives.
 
Recently - about 40 farmers and fishermen were killed 
in an attack in the Borno region, according to reports.
 
 
 
_____________________________________________
 
 
 
 
Burundi and DRC reassess Addis 
Ababa Framework Agreement
May 26th, 10:53am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Burundi 
reassess the Regional Oversight Mechanism (ROM)
 of the Peace, Security, & Cooperation Framework
 for the DRC & the region, local press informed 
on Monday.
 
Evariste Ndayishimiye, President of Burundi and Chair of 
the ROM, visited Kinshasa on Sunday, and met with his 
Congolese counterpart, Felix Tshisekedi, with whom 
he addressed the issue, a press release from the 
Presidency of the DRC reported.
 
Ndayishimiye and Tshisekedi reassessed the Addis Ababa 
Framework Agreement signed by 11 countries more than
 a decade ago, a few days before the ROM summit 
scheduled for May 28 in Kampala, Uganda.
 
The two presidents did not make any statements to reporters, 
but the Burundian Presidency specified that this trip was 
part of the consultations launched in preparation for 
the meeting, during which ----- Ndayishimiye will 
hand over the reins of the ROM.
 
This 12-year mechanism aims to contribute to maintaining 
stability and promoting development in the region.
 
The Addis Ababa Framework Agreement was signed by 11 
states and 4 international and regional institutions: the 
United Nations (UN), the African Union (AU), the 
International Conference on the Great Lakes 
Region (ICGLR), & the Southern African 
Development Community (SADC).
 
 
 
__________________________________




Ethiopia seeks cooperation with 
Brazil in aviation & technology
May 24th, 9:28am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Deputy Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Temesgen 
Tiruneh, reported today on social networks that 
he held productive conversations with several 
companies in São Paulo, on cooperation in 
the aviation and technology sector.
 
Tiruneh, who participated in the Second Brazil-Africa 
Dialogue on Food Security, Combating Hunger and 
Rural Development held from May 20 to 22 in the
capital of Brazil, visited the Embraer facilities, 
leading manufacturer of commercial, military 
and agricultural aircraft.
 
The South American company expressed great 
interest in collaborating with institutions in 
the Ethiopian aviation sector, he said.
 
He also toured the São José dos Campos Technological 
Innovation Park, which supports startups (emerging 
companies) and promotes innovative projects 
in aerospace and technology activity.
 
He said park representatives praised the Ethiopian 
government's focus on technology and innovation.
 
The African nation, which is driving its digital 
transformation through initiatives such as 
“Ethiopia Digital 2025”, is committed to 
collaborating with similar institutions
 to boost the sector, he said.
 
We agreed on key areas of cooperation to support 
Addis Ababa's continued technological 
transformation, and all its efforts 
in developing its professional 
capabilities, he concluded.
 
 
 
_______________________________
 
 
 
Africa Day, moment of 
remembrance and 
communion
May 24th, 7:18am
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The commemoration of Africa Day --- to be celebrated 
this May 25, is a moment of memory and communion 
among all Africans, said today, the Chairman of the 
African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf.
 
During an event held at the headquarters of the continental 
organization, Youssouf referenced this year's UA theme 
“Justice for Africans and Black people through 
reparations” which certainly brings memories 
and a story to the surface, often painful, 
ancient and contemporary.
 
He specified that justice has not yet been done, for the crimes 
committed during periods of slavery and colonization against 
tens of millions of Africans, and that reparations are delayed
 in coming.
 
However, Africa does not languish in the wounds and bitterness 
of the past, he asserted. “Africa continues to make sacrifices 
again and again, to free itself from the horrors of conflict, 
underdevelopment and wars”, he stressed.
 
He explained that his administration, through the aspirations of 
its people translated into the Charter of the Organization of the 
African Union (OUA), founded on May 25, 1963, and then in the 
Constitutive Act of the African Union, it took a position, with 
strength and determination, on the international stage.
 
With more than 2.5 billion hectares of arable land in 2050 on the 
continent, countless mineral resources, inexhaustible water 
sources and exceptional sunshine, Africa ----- has all the 
assets.. to make the dream of all citizens come true, 
he stressed.
 
“Today --- we will not see Afro-pessimism. The continent is 
advancing by leaps and bounds and the macroeconomic 
progress of many African countries is cited as an
 example”, he continued.
 
African women and youth --------- are taking their destiny into their
 hands, organizing, demanding and acting to improve their daily 
lives, while governments invest in infrastructure and develop 
realistic and pragmatic policies, he mentioned.
 
He assured that Africa can no longer be ignored. Its membership 
in the G20 is not only a deserved participation, but it is a global 
recognition of the importance of the continent, he considered.
 
He recalled the primary duty of Member States -- to develop a 
viable value chain on the continent through a value addition 
transformation process. Our outstanding African Free 
Trade Area, is the market destined to absorb the 
African goods, he added.
 
The president of the AU Commission warned that international 
geopolitics -------- is carried out at the expense of Africa and 
influential global powers do not pay adequate attention 
to us, or to our ambition as a continent.
 
Before concluding, he highlighted that “panafricanism was built
by our ancestors --- not only on the basis of the legitimate
aspirations of our people, but more broadly... about a 
series of strategic objectives that reflect critical
thinking: for the future of this continent and
 its people”.
 
 
 
___________________________________
 
 
 
Prime Minister of Ethiopia, visited 
technology companies in France 
May 24th, 5:27am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, visited several 
industries in France, focusing mainly on technology and 
artificial intelligence, as part of his working visit, the 
Office of the African Head of Government 
reported today.
 
Ahmed - and the accompanying high-level delegation - 
toured Station F, a private sector business incubator 
for technology startups, & the largest development 
centre for startups - in the world.
 
The source specified that Addis Ababa's startup ecosystem
 is still in its early stages, but demonstrates great potential 
driven by a young and technologically savvy population, 
as well as growing digital connectivity.
 
In this sense, the government adopted measures to support 
innovation through initiatives such as the ''Ethiopia Digital 
202'' strategy, which aims to create an enabling 
environment for startups --- especially in 
the financial technology, agricultural
technology & e-commerce sectors.
 
Likewise, a comprehensive legislative framework, known as 
the Startups Proclamation, which seeks to establish legal 
and institutional support mechanisms for the sector and 
addresses key challenges such as limited access to 
financing and regulatory barriers.
 
On the other hand, the African leader visited the Nokia France 
headquarters in this capital, a nerve centre for research and 
development in 5G and 6G technologies, cybersecurity, 
artificial intelligence and optical networks.
 
The program included a sample of fibre optic sensors, 
energy savings and a tour of 5G laboratories, which 
provided valuable information for Ethiopia on 
innovation, infrastructure development 
and intersectoral collaboration.
 
Finally, the Ethiopian delegation toured the facilities of Thales 
Research & Technology (TRT) France, a multidisciplinary 
research centre of the Thales Group, which serves as a 
cornerstone for the company's global research efforts 
with a focus on advanced fields such as aerospace,
 defense and artificial intelligence.
 
These visits -------- underline the importance of international
commitment & knowledge sharing to accelerate Ethiopia's 
digital transformation... & position the country as a future 
centre of innovation and technology ---- in Africa, the 
source stressed.
 
Ahmed arrived in France on Thursday to complete a working 
visit that included bilateral talks with President Emmanuel 
Macron -- to review progress in the implementation of the 
agreements reached during the visit from the dignitary
to Addis Ababa, in December 2024.
 
 
___________________________________
 
 
 
Ethiopia consolidated its position
 as an event organizer in Africa
May 24th, 4:54am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The celebration of important regional and international 
events in modern facilities ------ which contributed to 
consolidating Ethiopia's organizational capacity,
 marked the week that concludes today.
 
The XX Regional Conference of the International Labour
Organization (OIT) for Labour Base Professionals met 
from May 19 to 23 at the African Union Conference 
Centre, under the theme “Resilient communities 
and healthy environments: Approach to the 
Intensive Employment Investment 
Program (EIIP)”.
 
Policymakers, planners, professionals and global 
researchers participated to exchange ideas on 
policies and programs, that promote decent 
jobs and sustainable livelihoods in Africa.
 
The head of the ILO Department of Employment, 
Development and Investment, Mito Tsukamoto, 
praised Ethiopia for its leadership -- in 
promoting sustainable and inclusive 
employment policies across Africa.
 
Tsukamoto -- speaking to the Ethiopia News Agency -- said 
Addis Ababa provided a crucial platform for policymakers
 to design inclusive employment strategies. He also 
reaffirmed the international organization's 
continued support to promote 
sustainable job creation 
on the continent.
 
“The PIIE demonstrates, at the community level, how these 
initiatives can generate inclusive prosperity and essential 
infrastructure”, he noted. He recalled that this initiative 
launched in the 1970s was exhaustively tested 
and perfected.
 
He added that these South-South collaboration events, are 
essential, and we deeply thank the Ethiopian government 
for bringing together key ministers.... to guide Africa's 
public policies.
 
The event was organized by the Ministry of Urban
 and Infrastructure and the Ethiopian Highway 
Administration, in conjunction with the ILO.
 
On the other hand, participants in the leading event in Africa 
on digital identity “ID4Africa 2025”, held from May 20 to 23, 
stated that Ethiopia is an example for the continent by 
ensuring inclusive service and accessibility.
 
Under the motto ''Digital identity at scale: prioritizing use, 
accelerating impact'', the event brought together more 
than two thousand delegates from more than 95 
countries in a program that included: keynote 
presentations, round tables, national reports
 and an important exhibition that highlighted 
cutting-edge solutions for this activity.
 
Ethiopia was selected to host this year's event at the 2024 
Annual General Meeting, held in Cape Town, South Africa. 
 
ID4Africa Chief Executive Joseph Atick cited the country's 
strong political will, preparedness of its infrastructure and 
commitment to inclusive digital transformation, as key 
factors for selection.
 
ID4Africa is a pan-African movement committed to supporting 
African nations in building strong and responsible identity 
ecosystems that drive socio-economic development,
 digital transformation and humanitarian initiatives.
 
For the Horn of Africa ---- the Third Water Forum of the
 Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) 
was important, focused on strengthening regional 
efforts on groundwater governance.
 
From May 19 to 21, the meeting took place in this capital 
under the theme “Building a Platform for Sustainable 
Regional Cooperation in Groundwater”, which 
brought together representatives of the 
member states of the African entity, 
international organizations, 
technical experts ---- and 
development partners.
 
Key priorities were addressed in the discussions: 
harmonizing policies, engaging stakeholders at 
all levels, strengthen institutions, and aligning 
national efforts with the Authority's Regional
 Groundwater Roadmap.
 
The results of the forum will contribute to IGAD's broader 
commitment to integrated source management, climate 
resilience and sustainable development in the region.
 


____________________________________



 
Brazil and Angola strengthen 
commercial ties despite 
bird flu
May 23rd, 11:34am
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva today received his Angolan 
counterpart, João Lourenco, within the framework of Africa 
Week in Brazil and to debate the fight against hunger and 
bilateral cooperation.
 
Also the reception at the Planalto Palace, capital headquarters 
of the Executive Branch, occurred around the II Brazil-Africa 
Dialogue on Food Security, Combating Hunger and Rural 
Development, which brings together leaders and 
representatives of countries from that 
continent, in Brasilia.
 
Lourenço's visit reinforces bilateral ties, in a context of trade 
growth, especially in agricultural exports, in the midst of 
the alert for an outbreak of bird flu in southern Brazil.
 
The stay is also marked by the signing of agreements
 in key areas such as education, health and tourism.
 
In 2023, a member of the ruling Workers' Party visited 
Angola, where 7 technical cooperation agreements 
were formalized.
 
Since then, trade ties have intensified. Brazilian exports to
 the African country increased 20.2 percent in 2023,
 reaching $492.7 million - with an emphasis on 
products such as sugar, poultry and pork, 
and oils.
 
So far in 2025, between January and April, Brazil exported to 
Angola for 190.9 million dollars, an increase of 28.6 percent 
compared to the same period of the previous year.
 
Leading products this year include steel, molasses and 
poultry, which alone accounts for 20 percent of total 
exports, according to official data.
 
However, the growing relationship - faces a technical 
challenge: the recent detection of the first outbreak 
of bird flu on a commercial farm in the state of Rio 
Grande do Sul triggered international alerts.
 
The disease, caused by an infectious virus, that 
primarily affects birds, could threaten Brazilian 
exports, particularly meat, such as chicken.
 
Given the situation, the Ministry of Agriculture 
implemented emergency protocols, including 
inspections within a 10-kilometre radius 
around the detected focus.
 
Until this Thursday, only a single outbreak 
was being investigated, with no 
confirmed expansion.
 
The virus had already been detected in 2023 in 
wild birds in the state Espiritu Santo (sudeste), 
but this ---- is the first time it has affected 
commercial production.
 
Despite concerns, the authorities are confident 
that the outbreak will not significantly impact 
exports, thanks to transparency, and the
health measures adopted.
 
 
_______________________________________________
 
 

Sudan rejects US accusations about 
''the use'' of chemical weapons
May 23rd, 10:40am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Sovereign Transitional Council (CST), which 
governs Sudan, today rejected accusations
from the US about the use of chemical 
weapons in the war against the
paramilitaries.
 
CST Information Minister Khalid al Aiser, said in a 
statement issued after threats of sanctions from 
Washington that such arguments are unfounded 
and constitute political blackmail & deliberate 
falsification of facts.
 
The day before, the United States called on the 
Sudanese government to cease the use of 
chemical weapons, without clarifying 
the date or place.. in which they 
would have been used.
 
Likewise, it directed restrictions on US exports to 
Sudan and access to US government credit lines.
 
 

_______________________________________
 
 
 
South Africa --- advocates at UNESCO 
for the fight against gender violence
May 23rd, 8:22am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The vice president of South Africa, Paul Mashatile --- stood 
out at the UNESCO Transforming MEN'talities Conference 
in Paris, the importance of international cooperation 
and social transformation to confront 
gender violence.
 
In his speech, Mashatile stressed that the world faces 
“serious persistent challenges” such as geopolitical 
instability, the rise of nationalism & protectionism, 
that threaten international cooperation and 
sustainable development.
 
These challenges, he highlighted, require 
“inclusive and coordinated responses”.
 
When addressing gender violence, Mashatile called
 this social phenomenon “one of the most serious
 current challenges”.
 
During his speech, the senior official praised the 
Transforming MEN'talities campaign -- led by 
UNESCO, for its innovative approach that 
includes men and boys in the fight 
against gender violence (GBV).
 
South Africa, he recalled --- as a pioneer in implementing
this initiative, has adopted three strategic approaches: 
the integration of the program in youth through Higher 
Health, research on the social and behavioral factors 
that perpetuate GBV, and regional and international
collaboration to expand the impact of the program.
 
Mashatile also highlighted - how gender violence is 
a structural problem, deeply rooted in traditional 
notions of masculinity ----- that perpetuate 
stereotypes and discrimination.
 
It has particular repercussions in terms of precariousness, 
poverty and social exclusion, so its overcoming must 
look at education and the transformation of 
mind sets, to build an egalitarian and 
resilient society.
 
Unless we transform the mindset of men in our 
communities, we will not be able to build the 
society we envision, Mashatile emphasized.
 
 
_________________________________
 
 
 
Most victims of murders on 
South African farms
 are black
May 23rd, 7:47am
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
South African Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, stated 
here today that the majority of victims of violence
 on the country's farms have, historically, been 
black people.
 
When presenting crime statistics for the fourth quarter of
 the previous fiscal year, January 2025, Mchunu said the 
history of South African farm killings has always been 
distorted and reported in an unbalanced manner; 
the truth is that the murders in those “places
 have always included African people, in 
greater numbers”.
 
The report showed a notable decline in farm attacks, 
with six incidents recorded in the fourth quarter, 
compared to 12 in the previous quarter.
 
The victims included 2 farm owners, 2
employees, a manager, and a resident.
 
Although the South African Police Service - does not 
classify crime statistics by race, Mchunu, this time, 
in the context of statements made on the subject 
by US President Donald Trump... the Minister 
revealed that the two farm owners killed 
during the fourth quarter, were black
 and non-white Africans.
 
Additionally, the two employees and the farm manager 
were also black, while the only resident, was white.
 
Mchunu reiterated SAPS' commitment to conducting 
thorough investigations to ensure justice is served.
 
In his speech, the official highlighted the central 
government's commitment to the National Rural 
Security Strategy, whose objective is to create 
a safe environment in these areas.
 
Starting this year, he revealed, “when we publish 
first quarter results, we will include other crime 
categories in the country.... to offer a more 
complete picture”.
 
Thus, he continued, murders in rural and urban areas, 
rather than just on commercial farms as is done now.
 
On the other hand, the Minister maintained that 
although land invasions occur, he rejected the
 idea that they reflect a government policy.
 
Land invasions are, in general, acts of desperation 
carried out by Africans who lack land and need 
to settle. It's something “sporadic and it's still
 illegal, hence the cases and investigations 
about it”, he explained.
 
In his speech Mchunu revealed that --- next week the 
Minister of Agrarian Reform and Rural Development, 
Mzwanele Nyhontso, will offer clarifications on the 
term “land appropriation” which, he maintained, 
 has recently been misused.
 
 
_______________________________



They describe their president's visit 
to the US as successful in 
South Africa.
May 22nd, 11:25am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Secretary General of the African National Congress (ANC, 
the main governing party in South Africa), Fikile Mbalula, 
today described President Cyril Ramaphosa's visit to 
the United States as a mission accomplished“.
 
The head of state... had to go to the White House to meet with 
President Donald Trump and clear things up for the first time, 
face to face. President Ramaphosa must be applauded for 
this, said the party leader.
 
''He did it for his country. Not, by itself, to protect the interests 
of South Africans, and I think -- yesterday's restart meant 
diplomatic channels will be opened. Therefore, it is a
 great achievement for South Africa'',
 Mbalula highlighted.
 
The day before, Trump repeated in the Oval Office -- before the 
press and Ramaphosa, with false graphic arguments or taken 
out of context, accusations of alleged genocide against the 
white population in South Africa.
 
We collect refugees from many, many places, if we perceive 
that there is persecution or genocide, Trump said, referring 
to the recent arrival of several dozen members of South 
Africa's white Afrikaner minority, descendants of 
Dutch colonisers who arrived in the country
 in 1652.
 
Ramaphosa rejected that nationals who traveled to the 
United States are refugees, because they do not fit 
the description that they suffer political, religious
 or economic persecution.
 
Although the final result of the South African president's visit 
to the United States remains to be seen.. in the opinion of 
local analysts, it is possible that it helps at least in part 
to smooth things over between the two countries.
 
 
 
______________________________________
 

 
Ethiopia seeks access to the sea based 
on mutual respect and cooperation
May 22nd, 9:12am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Ethiopia's strategic search for maritime access is based on 
the principle of mutual respect, transparency and regional 
cooperation, an official source stated today.
 
This was expressed by the head of Training and Education of 
the Ethiopian Defense Forces, Lieutenant General Yimer 
Mekonnen, opening a high-level conference titled 
«Navigating Economic and Security Cooperation
 between the Gulf and the Horn of Africa: 
Opportunities, Challenges and 
Future Directions».
 
Mekonnen stressed that the collaboration between the Horn 
of Africa and the Gulf region is not merely diplomatic; It is
 a question of regional stability. “Ethiopia seeks not only 
assistance, but also - to reliably contribute to peace, 
security and development throughout the region”, 
he asserted.
 
For his part, the executive director of the (IFA) Institute of 
Foreign Affairs, Jafar Bedru, considered that the call 
reflects the collective determination to foster 
meaningful commitment, build mutual 
understanding and promote a shared 
vision for regional peace, security 
and prosperity.
 
Bedru expressed the IFA's commitment to generating practical 
research, empowering foreign policy actors and serving as a 
centre of thought leadership in diplomacy, peace and 
international cooperation.
 
The theme of this year's dialogue --- is economic and security 
cooperation: opportunities, challenges and future directions 
summarize both urgency and opportunity, he stressed.
 
The selection of the topic reflects the growing need to develop
 a more coordinated and coherent response to the complex 
and interrelated dynamics that make up this geostrategic 
maritime space, he continued.
 
Considering the Red Sea and Gulf of Eden corridor as a crucial 
geopolitical interface, he highlighted that, from Ethiopia's 
perspective, stability --- the long-term governance and 
accessibility of that space is of utmost importance.
 
He reiterated that Addis Ababa's pursuit of guaranteed 
maritime access is not a passing concern, it is a 
permanent national imperative, driven by the 
vision of security, economic viability and 
regional integration.
 
The third regional consultative forum on the Red Sea 
and Gulf of Aden is organized by the IFA and the 
War College of the Ethiopian Defense Force.
 
 
_____________________________________
 
 
 
Tanzanian authorities block access 
to X networking platform
May 22nd, 8:01am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Government of Tanzania blocked access to social 
network X --- after several cyberattacks on official 
accounts --- that published false content 
information, official sources pointed 
out here today.
 
Tanzanian police released a statement Thursday 
explaining that hackers used their account to 
publish pornographic images and fake ads, 
including a statement -- about the alleged 
death of President Samia Suluhu Hassan.
 
According to sources, investigations are underway to reach
 the culprits and government spokesman Gerson Msigwa, 
described the cyberattacks as a minor incident and 
assured citizens ------ that Tanzania's digital 
infrastructure remains secure.
 
For political observers, this situation occurs in the midst of 
growing political tension in the country ahead of the next 
general elections scheduled for October.
 
In recent days, several foreign activists and jurists...... were 
detained at Dar Es Salaam airport upon arrival in Tanzania, 
for attempting to attend the preliminary hearing of the 
trial against the Tanzanian opposition leader, Tundu 
Lissu, prosecuted for an alleged crime of treason 
and for publication of false information.
 
Lissu -- is the president of the Democracy and Progress Party 
(Chadema), an opponent of the current government chaired 
by Samia Suluhu Hassan.
 
 
__________________________________________
 
 
 
ILO praised Ethiopia's leadership 
in employment policies in Africa
May 22nd, 5:52am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The International Labour Organization (OIT) praised Ethiopia 
for its leadership in promoting sustainable and inclusive 
employment policies across Africa, during the 
XX Regional Conference for Labour Base 
Professionals, that meets today.
 
The head of the ILO Department of Employment, Development 
& Investment, Mito Tsukamoto, expressed this while greeting 
Addis Ababa for the success of the conclave scheduled for 
May 19 to 23 in this capital --- under the theme “Resilient 
Communities and a Healthy Environment: The Intensive 
Employment Investment Program Approach (PIIE)”.
 
Tsukamoto, speaking to the Ethiopia News Agency, said Addis 
Ababa provided a crucial platform for policymakers to design 
inclusive employment strategies. He also reaffirmed the 
international organization's continued support ---- to 
promote sustainable job creation across Africa.
 
“The PIIE demonstrates, at the community level, how these 
initiatives can generate inclusive prosperity and essential 
infrastructure”, he noted. He recalled that this initiative 
launched in the 1970s --- was exhaustively tested 
and perfected.
 
“These South-South collaboration events are essential, and 
we deeply thank the Ethiopian government for bringing 
together key ministers to guide the continent's
 public policies”, he added.
 
A joint statement by more than 25 participating African 
members highlighted the critical role of employment-
intensive investment programs, and reaffirmed their 
commitment to improving skills through technology,
 as well as fostering strong alliances for their
effective implementation.
 
In this regard, Tsukamoto recognized the immense, 
although often underutilized, potential of Africa.
 
She noted the large young African population, the dominance
of the informal sector, limited access to education and 
training ---- as important challenges, particularly for 
women and marginalized groups, including 
people with disabilities.
 
“It is essential to include vulnerable populations, young people, 
people with disabilities and other groups, providing them with 
decent jobs that generate income and strengthen the local 
economies”, he emphasized.
 
He specified that it would be aligning perfectly with the 
objectives of the regional conference on employment, 
as we explore ways to build resilient communities 
across Africa.
 
Despite these challenges, he expressed optimism --- that the 
meeting would contribute significantly to expanding decent 
work opportunities across the continent.
 
He mentioned the urgent need for African countries to prioritize 
employment-based investment and collaborate effectively to 
leverage their human and material resources.
 


________________________________________



Ugandan Ambassador said that coffee 
from the country will fill the shelves 
of Russian stores
May 21st, 8:30pm
(RT.ru)
 
Ugandan coffee will appear in large volumes
 in Russian stores, Ugandan Ambassador to
 Russia Moses Kawaaluuko Kizige said.
 
He noted that the country is working on
 expanding coffee supplies to Russia.
 
"We are talking about both green coffee beans and 
roasted ones. By September-October of this year 
....the volumes will increase significantly,"
TASS 
quoted him as saying.
 
Earlier, the Russian Foreign Ministry said that Moscow
 is ready to support Burkina Faso in ensuring national 
security and solving socio-economic problems.
 
Russian leader Vladimir Putin, during talks with the head 
of Burkina Faso, Ibrahim Traore, announced a twofold
 increase in the quota for students from the African 
country in 2024-2025.
 


_____________________________________________



 Cuba celebrates Africa Day
May 21st, 2:13pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Representatives of Cuban institutions and members 
of the diplomatic corps accredited in Havana, paid 
tribute today, to African independence fighters, 
in the context of the day for Africa Day.
 
The wreath placed in the capital's African Heroes Park 
was remembered on May 25, 1963 when 32 leaders 
of States from that continent met in Addis Ababa 
to form the Organization of African Unity,
 today, the African Union (UA).
 
At the ceremony, the ambassador of the Republic of 
the Congo... and dean of the African Diplomatic 
Group in Cuba, Rosalie Kama Niamayoua, 
announced upcoming cultural & sports
activities, that will take place in the
Cuban capital, in the context of 
the celebrations.
 
Authorities from the Communist Party of Cuba,
 the Government, the Ministry of Foreign 
Affairs, and the Cuban Institute of 
Friendship with the Peoples... 
also attended the activity.
 
The day of commemoration for Africa Day began
 in Cuba on May 15 -- after its inauguration by 
the president of the National Assembly of 
People's Power (Parliament), Esteban 
Lazo, in the National Capitol, 
the HQ of the Legislature.
 
On that occasion, the president of the Council of 
State also stressed that the most just causes in
 Africa, always had the determined support of 
Cuba, at the same time, he highlighted, the 
unbreakable ties of brotherhood, and the 
cooperation programs established in 
various areas, with nations of 
that continent.
 
He took the opportunity to reiterate the gratitude 
of this Caribbean nation for the permanent 
solidarity received from Africa.


 
___________________________



 Trump insists --------- on 
his false accusations 
against South Africa
May 21st, 1:25pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of the United States, Donald Trump, 
repeated today -- without evidence -- before his 
South African counterpart, Ciryl Ramaphosa,
- accusations of alleged genocide against 
the white population in the southern 
country, a statement his guest 
completely rejected.
 
Trump received Ramaphosa at the White House this 
Wednesday on a visit that captured interest given 
the tension between both nations... since the 
Republican returned to the Oval Office.
 
The US president alleged that «many people are very 
concerned about South Africa» ....and made false 
accusations about a genocide in the country.
 
«We collect refugees from many, many places, if we 
perceive that there is persecution or genocide», 
said Trump, who counted Elon Musk among 
those present, the tycoon and ally born in 
South Africa.. who became a staunch 
critic of his homeland.
 
The day before, the US Government expressed that
it was “open” ..that the meeting between Trump 
and Ramaphosa would serve to restart the 
bilateral relationship.
 
The disagreements between the two countries 
escalated with the expulsion in March of the 
then Pretoria ambassador in Washington, 
Ebrahim Rasool, who was declared 
persona ‘non grata’ ........after 
criticizing Trump's policies.
 
In addition, ties deteriorated due to the United States' 
reaction to a sovereign law in South Africa, passed 
in parliament, regarding land expropriation.
 
Trump denounced that this law paves the way for 
possible human rights violations against South 
Africa's white Afrikaner minority, that is, the 
descendants of Dutch colonizers who 
arrived in the country from 1652.
 
That is why the Republican administration implemented 
a program that will welcome Afrikaners who claim to 
suffer “unjust racial discrimination” ---- which will 
earn them refugee status in the United States.
 
On May 12, the Trump Administration received a group of 
59 white South Africans who came under that category, 
stating that they face discrimination and violence in 
their country, which South Africa denies.
 
Ramaphosa rejected that nationals who traveled to
the United States are refugees -- because they do
not fit the description that they suffer political,
religious or economic persecution.
 
Another dispute between the two countries has to do
with the position of the United States towards Israel
and against the Palestinian population, especially
in the Gaza Strip. For his actions, Pretoria sued
Israel - for genocide - at the International
Criminal Court.
 
Ramaphosa arrived in the United States on Monday
and his stay.. will end tomorrow. According to the
South African Presidency -- both dignitaries will
address «bilateral, regional and global issues
of interest».
 
 
 
___________________________________________
 
 
 
Billions --- to be invested in
infrastructure announced 
in South Africa
May 21st, 12:31pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
South African Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana, 
announced today that the Government will invest 
in the medium term almost one billion rands 56 
million dollars) in infrastructure projects.
 
This amount, he revealed during the presentation of 
the third version of the National Budget before 
Parliament, is dedicated to boosting the 
prospects for economic growth --- and
 improving access to basic services.
 
Increased investment in infrastructure, through Operation 
Vulindela ----- will expand energy generation capacity,
modernize and expand the transportation network 
and improve the sanitation and water services, 
with the aim of stimulating public-private 
collaborations, Godongwana said.
 
While South Africa's debt service costs remain high, 
the Minister expressed confidence that by fiscal 
year 2025/26, public debt will stabilize at 
77.4% of GDP.
 
That figure, he said, is 1.2% higher than that 
projected in the budget presented on March
 12, and is mainly due to lower nominal GDP.
 
According to Godongwana, this represents that, for 
fiscal year 2025/26, South Africa will spend around
R1.2 billion a day, servicing debt ($67 million).
 
This exceeds what the country spends on basic 
services such as health, police and basic 
education, Godongwana lamented.
 
 
____________________________________
 
 
Colombia and Kenya ----
reinforce collaboration 
on feminist issues
May 21st, 11:59am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Colombia and Kenya today reinforce collaboration 
on issues that make up the feminist agenda of 
each of the countries as part of the
implementation of a project in
south-south Cooperation.
 
According to a statement from the Foreign Ministry, 
a technical delegation from the African nation is 
currently visiting this capital with the aim of
--- sharing and strengthening institutional 
knowledge on prevention mechanisms, 
attention to, and judicialization of, 
gender-based violence.
 
As specified in the note - the Ministry of Foreign 
Affairs of Colombia highlights implementation 
of the bilateral initiative in order to improve 
the socioeconomic conditions of women,
 identifying opportunities to share legal 
knowledge & strengthen regulatory 
frameworks in both States.
 
This project is the result of the agreements 
established after the official visit of the 
Colombian vice president  -- Francia 
Márquez, to Nairobi in May 2023.
 
Regarding the meeting ---- the vice president 
highlighted that the exchange experience
is a clear example of how --- from the 
Global South --- strategic alliances 
can be built that allow progress 
in guaranteeing the rights of 
women and girls.
 
“It is a commitment to equality, justice 
and peace”, he stressed.
 
During the visit, both parties will talk, among 
others, about issues associated with ethnic
 justice models, criminal policy with a
 gender focus.
 
The project between Colombia and Kenya 
has two main objectives: institutional 
strengthening in both countries to 
confront gender-based violence 
and the construction --- of a 
document: recommending 
improvements in access 
mechanisms to justice
 in Colombia.
 
It is expected to be an input for decision-
making by the competent authorities, 
the Foreign Ministry statement said.
 
 
_______________________________________



Nigeria’s Food Crisis Deepens 
----- as Climate Change and
Policy 
Failures Take Toll
May 20th, 12:14pm
(teleSUR)
 
The once-thriving rivers of northern Nigeria now lie dry 
and cracked, exposing the country’s deepening food 
insecurity as climate change intensifies and 
government solutions fall short.
 
Nigeria—Africa’s most populous nation—declared a food 
security emergency in mid-2023, yet nearly a year later, 
the crisis has worsened:
 
Food inflation -- exceeded 35% in 2024, doubling the 
price of staple foods like rice, maize, and tomatoes.
 
Rivers in Sokoto and Zamfara that once sustained 
irrigation now appear seasonal at best.
 
Erratic rainfall and prolonged drought threaten crops 
and livestock, with dehydration worsening among
 farming communities.
 
Dr. Fatima Garba, an agricultural economist, criticized 
the lack of preparedness, stating: “Farmers don’t 
have modern irrigation, drought-resistant seeds,
 or access to real-time weather data. The tools 
they need are stuck in research institutes or 
policy documents.”
 
Faced with crop failures and declining incomes, young
 Nigerians are abandoning agriculture in favour of:
 
Urban migration
 
Informal mining
 
Joining criminal networks out of desperation
 
Meanwhile, banditry and herder-farmer 
conflicts force many to flee their land 
entirely, escalating insecurity.
 
Despite the government’s 2023 emergency 
declaration, food security initiatives have 
suffered from corruption, bureaucracy, 
and underfunding:
 
A Kebbi solar-powered irrigation project
 ran out of funds halfway.
 
Resettlement programs in Borno stalled 
due to budget constraints.
 
Private investment in agriculture remains low 
due to insecurity and policy uncertainty.
 
International agencies such as the World Food 
Programme and FAO warn that while Nigeria 
isn’t classified as a famine zone yet, the 
situation is rapidly deteriorating—with 
undernourishment rising, especially 
among children under five.
 
Observers see this crisis - as a test of Nigeria’s 
political will, with 70% of the population under 
30 and 40% of youth unemployed. Experts 
advocate --- for strategic grain reserves, 
climate-resilient farming, and modern 
irrigation systems ------ but trust in 
leadership.... is low.
 
For now, the rains remain late, the fields remain dry, 
and millions of farmers wait, uncertain if their next 
harvest will even come.
 
 
 
_________________________________
 


Climate forecasts --- vital to 
mitigate droughts & floods 
May 20th, 8:16am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Given the severe droughts and floods in the Horn of Africa, 
accurate climate forecasts are essential to mitigate the 
situation, protect the population and livelihoods, an 
expert warned in an event that concludes 
here today.
 
Ethiopian Water and Energy Minister Habtanu Itefa speaking at 
the 70th Great Horn of Africa Climate Outlook Forum (Ghacof 
70), he highlighted the vital role of the conclave in fostering 
collaboration between scientists and policy makers.
 
Itefa specified that this year's Ghacof theme, «Climate services 
to close the early warning gap», is particularly relevant given 
the alarming concern about drought in the region.
 
He noted that key sectors such as agriculture, food security, 
water resources, hydropower, tourism and health are 
particularly vulnerable to adverse climate effects 
such as droughts and floods.
 
He stressed the urgency of the forum ---- to provide accurate 
scientific guidance to policy makers and ensure the timely 
dissemination of crucial weather and climate information, 
especially to vulnerable communities.
 
For his part, the director general of the Ethiopian Meteorological 
Institute, Fetene Teshome, echoed these concerns and, for his 
part, he emphasized the high susceptibility of the Great Horn 
of Africa to climate-related risks.
 
Teshome explained that intensifying climate change and 
seasonal disturbances are causing erratic rainfall, 
prolonged dry periods and excessive rainfall, 
which increases vulnerability --- and 
significantly affects agriculture
 and the economy.
 
«With increasing climate variability and climate change, the
 role of climate information in minimizing risks and 
optimizing opportunities is undeniable», 
he added.
 
The two-day forum, an annual meeting organized three times a 
year by the Centre for Climate Predictions and Applications 
of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, brings 
together climate scientists, meteorologists, industry 
experts and policy makers from across the region 
and beyond.
 
The platform seeks to improve early warning systems for 
climate change, floods and landslides - expected due to 
rainfall, between normal and above normal, scheduled 
between June and September 2025.
 
 
________________________________________
 
 
 
Giant puppet dance in Senegal 
warns about climate collapse
May 20th, 7:31am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
A parade of giant artists and puppets today invades the 
Senegalese capital and other cities of this African 
country with the purpose of raising awareness 
among the general public through art about
 the dangers of climate change.
 
This capital corresponds to the third stop on a 20 thousand 
kilometre journey that began in Kinshasa, capital of the 
Democratic Republic of the Congo (RDC), whose 
route will end in August in the Arctic Circle.
 
Its objective is to raise awareness among the world's 
population about the impact of climate change ---- 
through this theatrical and ecological odyssey.
 
The biggest show seen in this region is called “The Herds”,
 an emotional theatre experience that travels the roads 
of different urban centres around the world.
 
This project arises from the need ------ to create a new 
interaction with the ecosystem; We want to inspire 
climate action through participatory art and 
renew our link with nature, stated the 
artistic director of the initiative ---- 
Amir Nizar Zuabi, of Palestinian 
origin and resident in London.
 
Before “The Herds” Nizar Zuabi created ''The Walk: Little 
Amal's Journey'', a giant 3.6 metre high puppet of a 
refugee girl - who began her journey on the border 
between Syria and Turkey, ending in Manchester,
 after traveling through 18 countries.
 
I am Palestinian, I belong to the town with one of the largest 
refugee communities in the world, for me it was very 
important to tell the story of Amal, reflected 
the artist.
 
Most of the migrants and refugees I met along the way... are 
climate expatriates. The people I met in southern Europe 
came from the Sahel because they are fleeing because 
of a climate issue; It is the region of the planet where 
the climate has collapsed, and they are forced to 
embark on endless routes to escape hunger, 
explained the set designer.
 
After visiting the DRC and Nigeria, “The Herds” landed
 in Senegal in May with four public shows that toured
 different neighbourhoods of this capital.
 
We collaborate with different artistic collectives, with design, 
theatre and performance schools to create the project and 
adapt it to each location, adds Nizar Zuabi; here we have
collaborated with more than 80 local artists in the 
creation of giant puppets to raise awareness 
among the population about the need to 
act to save the planet, he added.
 
Life-size puppets of giraffes, wildebeest, elephants or 
gorillas made of cardboard parade through the 
streets of the Ouakam neighbourhood in 
Dakar, an important stop on your 
journey from the DRC 
to Norway.
 
The climate crisis has a devastating impact on Africa, 
here is the origin of all the disaster that threatens us, 
said Nizar Zuabi.
 
 
 
________________________________________
 
 
 
''Islamist attacks'' cause human
 displacement in Nigeria
May 20th, 7:01am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The increase in Islamist attacks in northeastern Nigeria 
has already caused the displacement of some 20,000
people from the town of Marte, local media say. 
 
According to the authorities, the recent invasions by 
suspected militants of Boko Haram and its West 
African faction, (Iswap), led to armed clashes
 that have already left dozens dead.
 
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum reported the 
deaths of 5 soldiers in a clash with Islamists last 
week, after the attackers - briefly - seized a 
military base.
 
According to the official, the nearby town of Rann and
 the village of Kalawa Balge, where 23 farmers were 
apparently killed, were also attacked.
 
The sources added that in the last 16 years, Islamists 
displaced more than two million people and killed 
thousands of civilians.
 
Likewise, local authorities point out that these attacks have
 to do with the activities of Islamist groups... such as Boko 
Haram, which collect taxes from fishermen and farmers, 
and when they cannot pay, they are murdered or 
kidnapped and then demand a ransom from 
their relatives.
 
In northeastern Nigeria, several armed groups operate 
and take advantage of the lack of security in the 
region... for their profit.
 
Recently, 40 farmers and fishermen were killed in an
 Islamist attack, also in Borno, according to reports.
 
Currently, the Nigerian army is carrying out armed 
operations in that region to try to combat Islamist 
groups, an objective that it has not been able to 
achieve, so far.
 
 

____________________________________



 
Uruguay insists on replacing 
its blue helmets in the DRC
May 19th, 11:53am
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The Minister of Defense of Uruguay, Sandra Lazo, urged the 
United Nations ---- to accelerate the replacement of the  
country's contingent.. in the Democratic Republic of 
the Congo (RDC), which stays delayed today.
 
Lazo urged the world body to assume its leadership in peace 
missions to accelerate the return of the Uruguayan blue 
helmet battalion, postponed for several months.
 
He explained his participation in a forum on blue helmet 
missions recently held in Berlin and sponsored by the 
United Nations, which included meetings with the 
Rwandan Defense Minister, a regime involved 
in the armed conflict in the DRC.
 
''All the steps we take are aimed at ensuring that whoever has to 
make decisions, which is the international organization, truly 
and effectively complies with that leadership. Let them 
dialogue with whoever has to dialogue, but we need
to return our contingent'', he emphasized.
 
The head of Defense assured that the relief troops are “pronta” 
to travel to the African country and fulfill their role which, she 
said, “is not being a belligerent party”, but “safeguarding the 
civilian population”.
 
Lazo spoke with the press ------ within the framework of the 
celebrations for the 214th anniversary of the Battle of the 
Stones, which mark an important victory commanded 
by José Artigas --- against royalist troops.
 
As part of the commemoration, President Yamandú Orsi 
presented the military medal Outstanding Valour to the 
family of Rodolfo Álvarez -- a blue helmet who died on 
January 25 in the Congo during an attack attributed 
to the M23 rebel movement.


 
________________________________
 
 
 
Third Water Forum... of an African
 regional entity meets in Ethiopia 
May 19th, 10:51am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Strengthening regional efforts in groundwater governance
 is the focus today ----- of the Third Water Forum of the 
Intergovernmental Authority on Development
(IGAD) which is hosted by Ethiopia.
 
The three-day event under the theme “Building a Platform for 
Sustainable Regional Cooperation in Groundwater” brings 
together representatives of IGAD Member States, 
international organizations, technical experts 
and development partners.
 
On their first day... the discussions addressed key priorities: 
harmonizing policies, engaging stakeholders at all levels, 
strengthening institutions and aligning national efforts 
with the African regional entity's Regional Ground- 
water Roadmap.
 
With contributions... from the United Nations Educational, 
Scientific and Cultural Organization, the United Nations 
Economic Commission for Europe, the World Bank and 
Member States, the session underlined the shared 
commitment to transforming cooperation in this 
area into a cornerstone of regional resilience 
and sustainability.
 
Groundwater resources are crucial for the socioeconomic 
development and environmental sustainability of the 
Horn of Africa, the regional entity said.
 
With growing demand driven by climate variability, urbanization 
and population growth, the management of shared resources 
such as the Dawa, Shabelle and Northern Basin systems of 
Ethiopia, it requires coordinated and innovative solutions 
that transcend national borders.
 
The results of the forum, will contribute to IGAD's broader 
commitment to integrated source management, climate 
resilience and sustainable development in the region.
 
 
 
______________________________________________________


Italian PM Meloni Announces Summit 
on African Lobito Corridor Project
May 19th, 9:35am
(teleSUR)
 
The Western powers seek to secure the world’s 
largest reserves of cobalt, copper and coltan.
 
On Monday, Italian Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, announced a 
summit with several countries, focused on the Lobito Corridor
—a major African railway project through which the West 
aims to control and exploit African resources.
 
The conference, scheduled for June 20th, in Rome, will be 
co-chaired by Meloni and the EU Commission President 
Arsula von de Leyen. It will also include large 
transnational financial institutions.
 
The summit aims to “consolidate the work carried out so far” 
and “announce the completion of new projects,” Meloni said 
at a meeting on her “Mattei Plan,” which funds initiatives in 
African countries.... to curb Mediterranean migration.
 
She intends to align the Mattei Plan with the European “Global 
Gateway” strategy to boost investments in Africa. In the lead
-up to the Rome summit, Meloni expressed support for 
“continuing to work with the United States, on the 
major Lobito Corridor infrastructure project,”
 as well as with Gulf countries.
 
The Lobito Corridor, is a railway line in the heart of Africa, where 
China and the West ------ are competing to secure mineral supply 
chains. The project aims to link ports on Africa’s Atlantic coast 
with mining regions in the Democratic Republic of Congo and 
Zambia, via Angola.
 
Currently... the corridor consists of a 1,300-kilometre railway line
from the port of Lobito on Angola’s Atlantic coast to the Angolan 
city of Luau on the border with the DRC. From there, it continues 
another 400 kilometres to the Congolese mining city of Kolwezi, 
near the Zambian border.
 
Plans are in place to build another 800 kilometres of track 
to extend the railway into Zambia. The United States 
even envisions the corridor eventually reaching 
Africa’s eastern coast.
 
After decades of neglect, the route has regained interest from 
Western powers, especially in their race to secure valuable 
raw materials. Both Zambia and the DRC hold some of the 
world’s largest reserves of cobalt, copper and coltan.
 
The US&EU support the development of the Lobito Corridor 
in an effort to curb China’s growing influence, as Beijing
has 
already become a key commercial player on
the continent.


 
___________________________________
 
 
 
They remember the National
Hero of Cuba --- in Egypt
May 19th, 9:05am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Cubans, Latin Americans and Egyptians commemorated today 
in this capital the 130th anniversary of the fall in combat of 
the National Hero of that Caribbean island, José Martí, 
during the fight for the independence of that country.
 
Representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited here 
gathered in front of Martí's bust, located in Al Horreya 
Park, from Egyptian parties and friends of the 
Antillean country to remember and honour 
the most universal of Cubans.
 
We meet to pay well-deserved tribute to Martí, for the validity 
of his political and social thought and the depth of his ideas, 
stated the Cuban ambassador to Egypt, Alexander Pellicer.
 
He was a man of letters who transcended his time, but he never 
hesitated to sacrifice his vocation as an intellectual to fight for 
the freedom of the country and was faithful to his ideas until 
he died on the battlefield, he stressed.
 
The diplomat highlighted that with “his physical departure the 
great organizer and ideologist of the Revolution was lost (...) 
but he left a vast literary and political work, and a legacy
 that continues today”.
 
Martí was a great Latin Americanist and a faithful follower 
of the ideas of the Liberator Simón Bolívar and other 
heroes of our America, he assured.
 
Pellicer also detailed his work as a writer, diplomat and 
statesman, as well as his desire to unite the Latin 
American people ----- in a great homeland.
 
For his part, Ashraf Mounir, director of the Americas of 
the Egyptian Foreign Ministry, highlighted the legacy 
of the Cuban hero and the links between both 
nations - in various matters.
 
As an example of the ties, he cited the historical relations 
between former president Gamal Abdel Nasser and the 
leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro.
 


_________________________________
 


South Africa condemns Israeli 
actions in the Gaza Strip
May 17th, 10:11am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
South Africa condemned the massacre of 143 
Gazans by Israeli troops on May the 15th, 
coinciding with the commemoration of 
the 77th anniversary of the Nakba, 
which marks the beginning of 
the displacement of the
Palestinians in 1948.
 
In a Foreign Ministry statement, Pretoria recalls how as
famine worsens in Gaza - and ceasefire efforts remain 
stalled, israel's complete blockade of aid to the Strip 
and its restrictions on humanitarian access --- 
contravene the State's obligations under 
international humanitarian law -- and 
the Convention for the Prevention 
and Punishment of the Crime 
of Genocide.
 
Israel's persistent and serious violations are part of a broader 
strategy to expel Palestinians from its territory, subjecting 
them to famine and making the Gaza Strip uninhabitable, 
it is added in the document.
 
Consequently, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlights, South 
Africa reiterates its call for an immediate ceasefire and the 
resumption of a political process to end the Israeli 
occupation of Palestinian territories.
 
The international community, the text highlights, must act 
decisively ---- to hold Israel accountable for violations of 
international law, particularly humanitarian and
human
 rights law.
 
This includes, he details, the implementation of effective 
measures to end the occupation, the policies and 
practices of collective punishment in force 
and the illegal blockade imposed on 
the Gaza Strip.
 
Furthermore, the South African Foreign Ministry continues, 
the practice of arbitrary and administrative detentions, 
as well as acts of torture and ill-treatment against 
Palestinian detainees, in particular children, 
must immediately cease.
 
These actions clearly violate international humanitarian law, 
including the 4th Geneva Convention, and the international 
human rights norms and standards enshrined in the 
Convention on the Rights of the Child and the 
Convention against Torture & Other Cruel, 
Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or 
Punishments, lists Pretoria.
 
Thus, he demands, it is imperative that all Palestinian 
detainees held without due process be released and 
that all victims, especially children ---- receive 
adequate compensation and rehabilitation, 
in accordance with international law 
and justice.
 
The credibility of the international order - depends on 
the consistent application of international law and 
accountability for all violations, regardless of 
who their author is, the text concludes.
 
South Africa, in its recent submissions to the International 
Court of Justice -- during hearings on Israel's Obligations 
in relation to the Presence and Activities of the United 
Nations, other international organizations and third 
States in, and in relation to, the Occupied 
Palestinian Territory, stated that Gaza... 
has become an extermination camp.
 
 
 
__________________________________________
 
 
 
South Africa hopes --- the G20 will 
boost global economic recovery
May 17th, 9:46am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Deputy Minister of the Presidency of South Africa, 
Nonceba Mhlauli, stated this week that the main 
objective of the Group of Twenty (G20) is to 
increase multilateral cooperation for the 
recovery of the global economy.
 
Speaking at a G20 conference held at Tshwane University of 
Technology (TUT) in this capital, the senior official recalled 
how the G20, initially, focused on general macroeconomic 
issues, but for years it has included, among other topics, 
trade and climate change on its agenda.
 
They also include sustainable development, health, 
agriculture, energy, the environment and the fight 
against corruption.
 
The G20 was promoted to the category of Heads of State and 
Government after the global economic and financial crisis of 
2007, & in 2009, when it became clear that the coordination 
necessary to confront the crisis would only be possible at 
the highest political level, Mhlauli continued.
 
Since then, he highlighted ----- the Group's leaders have met 
periodically.. and the forum has become the main stage for 
international economic cooperation focused on increasing
multilateral cooperation to stabilize the global financial 
system, promote long-term sustainable growth and 
strengthen global economic governance.
 
It is in this context, he stressed, that South Africa will take 
advantage of the pro tempore presidency to focus on 
inclusive and sustainable economic growth that 
benefits its citizens.
 
This Presidency seeks to demonstrate -- that the country is 
open for business. South Africa is an attractive destination 
for business services and has a sophisticated digital 
infrastructure, including mobile networks and 
high-speed broadband, he added.
 
In the economic sphere, the G20 will be a great boost, 
especially in areas such as tourism - and hospitality. 
Thus, he said, the more than 200 planned meetings 
related to this mechanism have already begun in 
the nation, which presents opportunities for the 
growth of tourism, manufacturing, trade and 
other investments.
 
We also focus intensely on youth employment, 
reducing the gender gap, reducing inequality 
and protecting the environment, he revealed.
 
Likewise, he highlighted that the G20 will open new 
possibilities in artificial intelligence, which has the 
potential to provide unprecedented economic 
and social opportunities.
 
 
________________________________________
 
 
 
They point out the role of AI 
in achieving Agenda 2063 
objectives in Africa
May 17th, 8:39am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, emphasized today 
that Africa is entering a new era ---- where local (IA) artificial 
intelligence can drive inclusive prosperity and help achieve 
the goals of Agenda 2063.
 
This was expressed by Ahmed when speaking at the ''AI event 
for Africa'' under the motto ''Leveraging AI for Prosperity and 
Collaboration in Africa'', organized as part of the Ethiopian 
Technology Exhibition 2025, which meets from May 16 to
18, at the Addis Ababa International Convention Centre.
 
“We must own our data. Data sovereignty is not just about 
technology, but about trust, identity, and the power to 
shape our own future. Our systems must remain 
secure and our data must serve our people”, 
he stressed.
 
He specified that Africa is not here to reach others, but to lead. 
Our digital transformation is based on values, inclusion and a 
future where AI empowers communities ----- and leaves no 
one behind.
 
He noted that Ethiopia leads by example by investing in 
artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure and skills 
development ---- to build a future-proof society.
 
Through initiatives such as the Ethiopian Institute of AI, digital 
identity and the ''Five Million Programmers'' programme, the 
African country translates the vision into tangible impact.
 
Looking ahead to 2030, the head of government stressed
 that Africa must shape AI on its own terms, in an
 ethical, inclusive and sustainable way.
 
For her part, the vice president of the African Union Commission 
(UA), Selma Malika Haddadi, gave a visionary speech on “The 
role of AI in shaping Africa's future”, highlighting innovation, 
the participation of all individuals and the bold path ahead 
for the continent.
 
“The adoption of the continental organization's Continental AI 
Strategy marks an important step in building a vibrant, 
inclusive and sustainable African ecosystem, that 
shapes the global sector from an African 
perspective”, he asserted.
 
Hadaddi said it is imperative -- to develop our individual and 
collective talent, data sets and AI computing infrastructure 
capabilities, to empower our citizens and transform Africa.
 
The forum is organized by the Information Network Security 
Administration together with the Ethiopian Institute of 
Artificial Intelligence, with the Cybersecurity 
Council, as co-host.
 
 
_________________________________________
 
 
 
African Union, UN and Arab League 
addressed the crisis ------- in Sudan
May 17th, 8:38am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The highest representatives of the African Union (UA)... the
UN and the Arab League addressed the situation in Sudan 
within the framework of the 34th Arab Summit meeting 
today in Iraq, a statement revealed.
 
The president of the AU Commission, Mahmoud Ali 
Youssouf, the secretaries general of the United 
Nations, Antonio Guterres, and the Arab 
League, Ahmed Aboul Gheit, chaired 
the meeting.
 
The parties expressed deep concern.... about the worsening 
conflict and humanitarian crisis in Khartoum, and called for 
urgent international action to end the violence, guarantee 
humanitarian access and support a lasting ceasefire, 
the AU press release stated.
 
They agreed to continue coordinating efforts for a peaceful 
resolution of the war and reaffirmed their commitment to 
the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of Sudan.
 
The day before, Youssouf and his accompanying delegation
 were received by Iraqi President Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid 
at Al-Salam Palace. The meeting focused on boosting 
relations between Baghdad and Africa -- as well as 
exploring opportunities for strategic cooperation 
with the African Union Commission.
 
They also spoke with Gheit about strengthening the 
alliance between both organizations in terms of 
development and diplomacy.
 
Youssouf reported on the AU's continued efforts to promote 
political dialogue in Sudan and Libya, as well as support
 for ''stabilization'' in Somalia.
 
Both stressed the importance of strengthening multilateral 
cooperation to address shared regional challenges.
 
For his part, Gheit extended an invitation to Youssouf 
to visit the Arab League headquarters for further 
consultations and to advance concrete 
joint actions.
 
The Baghdad Summit scheduled for this day will seek 
to forge a unified Arab position, address critical
 regional issues such as Gaza and Syria, 
and strengthen the nation's role.
 
 
_________________________________________
 
 
 
Business and financial forums set 
the weekly agenda in Ethiopia
May 17th, 8:38am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The High Level Business Forum “Investing in Ethiopia 2025” 
and the million-dollar agreements signed, as well as the 
Ethiopian Financial Forum and the debates generated, 
they marked the information agenda, in the week 
that ends here today.
 
With the aim of strengthening the country's economic prospects 
and promoting collaboration, the event “Investing in Ethiopia 
2025” (Invest Ethiopia) met on May 12 and 13, co-organized 
by key government institutions, the private sector and 
development partners.
 
Ethiopian President Taye Atske-Selassie highlighted the 
platform as a national effort to build a tradition of 
continuous deliberation that ensures policies 
evolve, according to the needs and crucial 
contributions of investors.
 
Selassie highlighted the economic reforms undertaken over 
the past six years to sustain growth, attract foreign direct 
investment and drive structural transformation.
 
“These reforms - guarantee macrofinancial stability, eliminate 
regulatory barriers and open key economic sectors, such as 
finance, banking and telecommunications, to foreign 
investment, radically transforming Ethiopia's 
economic future”, he asserted.
 
He highlighted the strategic advantages of Addis Ababa, 
by referring to its position as the second most populous 
country in Africa, with a dynamic market of 130 
million people.
 
The business forum concluded, with the signing of five 
major investment offers totaling more than $1.6 billion.
 
The chief commissioner of the Ethiopian Investment 
Commission, Zeleke Temesgen, signed the 
agreements with the representatives of 
Sessar Advanced Energy Solutions, a 
planned investment of approximately 
$100 million in the first phase and 
an additional $150 million in the 
second phase to support local 
solar energy development.
 
With Hanergy New Energy Technology Company Limited 
& Jandu, $360 million was allocated to establish a 
solar cell manufacturer.
 
In the case of the agreement with Huawei Mining Processing 
Company Limited, the amount amounting to around $500 
million will be used for exploration, mineral processing 
and the development of a special economic zone
 focused on minerals.
 
Meanwhile, with Sequa Mining and Processing PLC (, a joint 
venture between China and Ethiopia), approximately $600 
million will be used to develop coal mining projects.
 
Finally, the $14 million agreement with Solar Manufacturing 
Development PLC aims to further increase its Ethiopian 
solar cell capacity.
 
Another important event held during the week that just 
concluded was the Ethiopian Financial Forum 2025, 
an event that sought to align stakeholders with 
the sector's national agenda ---- strengthen 
collaboration and promote investments.
 
The Addis Ababa Science Museum hosted the event on May 15 
and 16, organized by National Bank (NBE) in collaboration with 
state telecommunications company Ethio Telecom, which 
brought together political leaders, financial institutions, 
development partners, private sector actors and 
members of the diaspora.
 
The occasion was propitious for NBE Governor Mamo Mihretu to 
highlight the important international support for the ongoing 
macroeconomic reform agenda. 
 
In that sense, he mentioned the financial support and debt 
service relief of partners in the Middle East, China
 and the Paris Club countries.
 
Mihretu highlighted exceptional volume financing provided by 
the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank that 
reflects the strength of the country's change efforts.
 
He recalled that the regulations are focused on fundamental 
political areas —monetary, exchange rate and governance 
of the financial sector— with the aim of making the
 financial system more competitive, market-
oriented, open to foreign investment, 
digital and inclusive.


 
_______________________________________
 


South Africa will host G20 
Science and Technology 
meeting
May 16th, 7:57am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Ministry of Science, South Africa's Technology and 
Innovation organizes the second meeting of the G20 
Research and Innovation Working Group and the 
G20 Initiative on Bioeconomy, which will 
begin on the 25th.
 
The meeting --- under the pro tempore presidency of South 
Africa, according to an official statement on the matter, 
will take place until the 28th at the University of the 
eastern province of Mpumalanga.
 
The event will be attended by Algeria, Egypt and Nigeria, 
African members of the G20, as well as 15 African 
countries invited by South Africa, the ministry 
details in the text.
 
The second GIWG meeting will discuss the progress of the 10 
outcomes agreed upon during the first meeting held at Free 
State Provincial University in February 2025, and a virtual 
follow-up meeting held on April 9 and 10.
 
The second meeting of the G20 GIWG will also discuss
 the draft G20 Ministerial Declaration for Research 
and Innovation.
 
The document highlights how just five years from the 
deadline of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for 
Sustainable Development, the RIWG and the 
GIB must urgently work on cooperation to 
preserve biodiversity and use science, 
technology and innovation to solve 
the many challenges facing 
the world.
 
The second meeting of the RIWG and GIB coincides 
with the Africa Day commemorations, and the 
Department will organize a Science Leaders 
Dialogue, G20 Africa Technology and 
Innovation on May 25, the text adds.
 
Participants in the dialogue will address in particular 
the role of artificial intelligence in implementation 
of the African Union Science, Technology and 
Innovation Strategy (STISA-2034).
 
 
_______________________________________



Statement from the Cuban 
Foreign Ministry published
 in Uganda
May 16th, 7:16am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Ugandan newspaper UG Diplomat published in its 
pages the recent statement of the Cuban Ministry of 
Foreign Affairs “Repeating a lie does not make it 
true: Cuba does not support terrorism”, widely 
commented on here today in diplomatic media.
 
The newspaper highlights aspects of the statement where 
it is highlighted that with this act, the United States 
Department of State ----- turns the fight against 
international terrorism ---- into a unilateral 
political exercise against any countries  
that do not submit to its hegemonic 
interests.
 
The document also recalls that exactly one year ago, when 
the previous US government excluded Cuba from the same 
list, it recognized the value of bilateral cooperation in law 
enforcement, including in jointly confronting terrorism.
 
Last Wednesday, the Ugandan newspaper also published the 
statement by the Ministers of Health of the Non-Aligned 
Movement ------ praising Cuba's contributions to 
international medical cooperation -- while 
condemning efforts to discredit their 
global health missions.
 
Uganda, likewise, has always voted at the United Nations 
against the unjust economic, commercial and financial 
blockade of the United States against Cuba, imposed 
for more than six decades.
 
 
________________________________


Victims increase in Chad -- due
 to ''inter-community clashes''
May 16th, 6:48am
 (Prensa Latina)
 
 The government of Chad acknowledged the death of another 
35 people in the latest inter-community clashes that have
occurred in this country, local media report here today.
 
The events occurred in Mandakao village, in the province 
of Logone Occidental, in the southwest of the country, 
according to Government spokesman Gassim Cherif 
Mahamat, the day before.
 
Mahamat stated, that the Government condemns these 
barbaric acts as firmly as possible and reports that all 
necessary measures are being taken to identify them, 
locate - and bring to justice - the perpetrators 
and accomplices.
 
Meanwhile, another 19 people died between Wednesday 
and Thursday --- in clashes between farmers and 
shepherds in the department of Lac Iro, in 
the southern province of Moyen-Chari, 
according to local police.
 
In African countries like Chad, clashes between nomadic 
Muslim herders and Christian farmers are frequent over 
control of fertile lands, dedicated to grazing animals 
or promoting cash crops.
 
 
____________________________________________________



Ethiopian Technology Exhibition 
2025 -------- opens its doors 
May 16th, 5:34am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Ethiopian Technology Exhibition 2025 (Tech Expo 2025) 
started here today, an international event that will show the 
rapid transformation of the local sector and advances in 
key areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence,
smart cities and financial technology, among others.
 
The Addis Ababa International Convention Centre will host 
until May 18, the event organized by the Information 
Network Security Administration (INSA) and the 
Ethiopian Institute of Artificial Intelligence 
(EAII), with the Cybersecurity Council 
as co-host.
 
INSA CEO Tigist Hamid said at a recent press conference 
that the exhibition is unprecedented, unique ----- for its 
organization, the diversity of its participants and its
thematic scope, which positions it as the largest 
technology exhibition in East Africa.
 
Hamid specified that, with an estimated participation of more 
than 10 thousand interested parties, Tech Expo 2025 will 
serve as a fundamental platform to show the rapid local 
technological transformation, aligned with the nation's 
Ethiopia Digital 2025 strategy.
 
The latter, about to end, prepared the African country to 
launch the 2030 digital strategy, he stressed. In that 
sense, the international event supports the 
commitment to sustained progress and 
turning Addis Ababa into a digital 
centre, he added.
 
For his part, the general director of the EAII, Worku Gachena, 
highlighted the strategic importance of the exhibition to
 promote Ethiopia's technological image, and create
 links with the market.
 
Gachena stated that the institute is dedicated to implementing 
artificial intelligence solutions in all sectors, addressing data-
related challenges ------ and the development of a qualified 
workforce. This exhibition will be a vital showcase of 
our achievements, he said.
 
He also highlighted the opportunity --- for the exchange of 
experiences in the sector, in particular the promotion of 
the broad participation of private technological actors.
 
Another important element of the exhibition is that it aligns 
with the digitalization strategy of the African Union's 
Agenda 2063, he concluded.
 
 
 
________________________________



 Pedestrians and cyclists focus --- on
event 
in Africa for global campaign
May 15th, 10:07am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The role of non-motorized transportation in advancing 
equitable mobility, healthy and climate resilience in 
Africa -- focused on an event of the VIII UN World 
Road Safety Week.... that continues today.
 
The Technology, Innovation, Connectivity and Infrastructure 
Development Division of the Economic Commission for 
Africa (ECA), in collaboration with the Government of 
Ethiopia and key development partners, organized 
the meeting to present their new strategies ---- 
and commitments.
 
Ethiopian Minister of State for Transport and Logistics, Bareo 
Hassen highlighted the government's deep responsibility for 
sustainable mobility and praised the ECA's continued 
collaboration, a statement said.
 
Hassen underlined the country's comprehensive policy 
framework, which includes a 30-year transportation 
roadmap, integrated national infrastructure 
standards and ongoing efforts to promote 
walking and cycling..... through 
inclusive design.
 
Likewise, planning based on equity and citizen 
participation, such as car-free days. “Walking 
and cycling are not symbolic ----- they are 
practical. "We are already implementing 
our strategy in 41 cities ..and hope to 
reach 69 by the end of our 10-year 
plan", he said.
 
The director of the Technology, Innovation, Connectivity and 
Infrastructure Development Division of the ECA, Robert 
Lisinge - emphasized the Commission's support for 
road safety, through policy advice, data systems, 
national assessments & capacity development.
 
For his part, the head of the Security and Protection Service, 
Ricardo Freitas da Silva, highlighted the importance of 
enforcing transit rules -- both in host countries and 
among UN staff.
 
''Failures in traffic rules and regulations are the main cause 
of the accidents we are experiencing. Commitment to 
these rules is crucial, and violations should not be 
ignored - or overlooked - without adequately 
addressing incidents'', he emphasized.
 
The VIII United Nations Road Safety Week, which meets from 
May 12 to 18 under the motto “Let's make walking and 
cycling safe”, is a global call for active mobility to be 
safe, accessible and integrated... into urban and 
transport planning.
 
Africa, with the world's highest rates of pedestrian 
and cyclist deaths ---- faces an urgent need to act,
the ECA statement warned.
 
 
_______________________________________
 
 
 
President of Ethiopia provides 
recommendations for the 
financial sector 
May 15th, 9:45am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The need for Ethiopia's financial sector to expand its customer 
base, its geographical reach and lead the country's digital 
transformation focused today on the intervention of 
President Taye Atske-Selassie, in a forum.
 
Opening the Ethiopian Financial Forum 2025 which will sit at 
the Addis Ababa Science Museum for two days, Selassie 
considered three key recommendations to ''maintain 
momentum and maximize our success''.
 
First, he urged the sector to dramatically expand its size and 
reach within the economy ----- by pursuing two interrelated 
imperatives: aggressively expanding its geographic 
and customer-based reach, at the same time, 
transforming the ecosystem, by focusing
 on improving service standards.
 
''We must all lead Ethiopia's digital transformation and 
position the financial ecosystem as the backbone of 
the country's progress'', he noted, considering that 
the Ethiopia Digital 2025 strategy is becoming a 
reality -------- across the board.
 
For third place, the African president said that, with the aim of 
guaranteeing the sustainable growth of the sector, “financial 
inclusion and investment in human capital, are imperative”.
 
On the other hand, when analyzing the economic context, 
the dignitary noted that the previous “state system was 
not conducive to the development of a modern 
financial sector that would address the 
urgent needs of private companies 
through innovation, and the rapid 
delivery of consumer services”.
 
He recalled that this situation generated significant pressure on 
the macroeconomy, forcing the country to rely heavily on large
-scale debt to finance public investment”. This, he stressed, 
caused an enormous burden.......... on sustainability and 
debt servicing.
 
With the launch of the economic reform program in 2023, 
long-standing problems were addressed, such as high 
inflation, increased debt, bad loan portfolios in state 
banks and a serious exchange crisis, he asserted.
 
He mentioned the support provided by the International 
Monetary Fund, the largest concessional financing in 
the history of that international organization, and 
the loans approved by the World Bank, the 
largest in recent years....... to maintain 
the momentum of the reform.
 
The Financial Forum is organized by the National 
Bank of Ethiopia in collaboration with the state 
telecommunications company Ethio Telecom 
and brings together policy makers, financial 
institutions, development partners, actors 
from the private sector......... and the 
diaspora community.
 
 
_______________________________________
 
 
 
Unicef recognizes Angola's progress
----- in its commitment to children
May 15th, 9:35am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Unicef deputy representative in Angola, Cristina Bargiolo, 
recognized the country's progress..... in fulfilling its 
commitments to child protection programs.
 
Speaking at the conference on juvenile justice in this capital, 
the official stated that, at a time when the 50th anniversary 
of Angolan National Independence is being celebrated, it 
is important to highlight how Angola has taken clear 
steps, both in the legislative and political spheres, 
that demonstrate its commitment to the Rights 
of the Child.
 
“Angola was one of the first countries in the world to 
ratify the Convention on the Rights of the Child in 
1990, a document ----- that represents the 
unequivocal and prominent recognition 
and guarantee of the rights of the 
child, within the framework of 
human rights in general”, 
he stated.
 
For his part, the member of the Superior Council of the 
Angolan Judiciary, Carlos Cavuquila, referred to the 
need to expand integrated child support centres 
throughout the country, as they are currently 
only present in the provinces of Luanda,
Moxico, Malanje and Huíla.
 
The official expressed his hope that as soon as possible 
it will be defined who should assume responsibility for 
coordinating the process, be it the Ministry of 
Justice, the Ministry of the Interior, the 
Ministry of the Family or ...another 
institution.
 
For his part, the vice governor of Luanda for the political, 
social and economic sector, Manuel Gonçalves, 
highlighted the value of the conference for 
dialogue, reflection and coordination of 
strategies that strengthen child 
protection mechanisms 
in Angola.
 
Gonçalves advocated for the urgent need
to ensure that no child........ is left behind.
 
 
 
_____________________________________
 


Amnesty Report Exposes 
Exploitation of Kenyan 
Domestic Workers in 
Saudi Arabia
May 14th, 1:09pm
(teleSUR)
 
Amnesty International has released a damning report 
detailing the abuse and exploitation of Kenyan 
domestic workers ----- in Saudi Arabia ---
documenting over seventy cases of 
deception, forced labour --- and 
inhumane working conditions.
 
Many workers were misled by recruitment agents 
....promised jobs in beauty and hospitality, but 
instead, forced into domestic servitude. 

Bigeni Maina Mwangi, one of the 
survivors, shared:
 
“The contract I signed in Nairobi was changed 
the moment I landed. The agent said I had 
no choice --- but to work.”
 
Mwangi ....worked 17 months without pay, only to be sent 
home empty-handed. After a brief attempt at finding a 
better job in Dubai, she returned to Oman in 2020, 
where her conditions worsened.
 
The report urges Kenyan and Saudi authorities to implement 
labour protections, prosecute abusive employers, and ban 
exploitative recruitment agencies.
 
Another survivor, Mejuma Shaban Ali --- described her ordeal as 
“a prison”, recounting how she escaped her employer’s house 
disguised as taking out trash, only to be denied assistance 
by the embassy ---- and forced into illegal labour.
 
More than 150,000 Kenyans - work as domestic workers in Saudi 
Arabia, often subjected to extreme conditions. Amnesty Kenya’s 
Executive Director Irungu Houghton called the system “modern 
slavery”, demanding urgent policy reforms and ------- stronger 
embassy intervention.
 
In recent months, Kenya’s government has cracked down on 
rogue recruitment agencies, repatriating over 100 workers 
stranded in Myanmar and Thailand. However - activists 
warn that deeper structural protections are needed 
--- to prevent further abuses.
 
 
____________________________________
 
 
 
Eastern Congo’s Mining Crisis: 
Conflict, Exploitation, and 
Regional Tensions
May 14th, 1:05pm
(teleSUR)
 
In the resource-rich hills... of North Kivu’s Masisi territory, 
thousands of artisan miners extract strategic minerals 
such as coltan, cassiterite, and manganese, vital for 
global technology industries. However... the region 
remains embroiled - in decades of armed conflict, 
with over 100 militias vying for territorial control.
 
The Rubaya mining site, now controlled by the M23 armed 
group, lies at the heart of these tensions. The Congolese
 government accuses M23 of seizing mineral resources 
and --- illegally .......smuggling them into Rwanda, 
exacerbating instability.
 
Miners, however, say daily life remains unchanged, with some 
citing less harassment under rebel rule, compared to past 
militia control by the Wazalendo, a militia allied with the 
Congolese army.
 
For miners like Jean Baptiste Bigirimana, 
wages remain desperately low:
 
“I get $40 a month, but that’s not enough. 
Children need clothes, education, 
and food.”
 
Trader Bahati Moïse -- who resells coltan -- lamented the 
disconnect between the global reliance on Congolese 
minerals and the conditions of those who mine them:
 
“The world knows that 'phones are made from coltan 
that comes from here, but ----- look at our lives. 
We can’t continue like this.”
 
In April, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio oversaw a peace
 pledge between Congo and Rwanda, aiming to stabilize the 
region ---- and secure U.S. access to Congo’s minerals. 

President Felix Tshisekedi sought US investment
in exchange for diplomatic intervention --------- 
to reduce the armed violence.
 
While the deal offers hope ------- for stability, analysts question 
whether economic incentives alone can end militia violence 
that has defied peacekeeping efforts, since the 1990s.
 
 

All Africa music winners

Sudan's Wazza instrument

will africa solve hunger by 2030?

bust of  queen Nefertiti

ONE UNION

Two weeks before Brexit, the African Union
 announced a new single African passport
that permits holders to enter any of the
 54 AU member states without a visa –
an interesting turn in African history
which NO-ONE in the West knows
or cares about !  What a stunning
reflection of how far our mindset
and media are, from the 'world
community' we say we love.

__________________________________


The above is one reason why Rhondda Records
is devoting this page to Africa - and there
are so many other reasons!

Here are two - one bad - one good.

I was stunned, when I read a year or so
ago, that 40% of Africa has no regular
electricity supply! How could this be?

And, second, Africa is not only the
Mother of the human species...
it is, now, becoming the hope
of the new multipolar world.

Rise up, Africa!




Text-only version of this page  |  Edit this page  |  Manage website  |  Website design: 2-minute-website.com