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Focus on Mother Africa, news and events

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

 
South African president -- will visit 
Indonesia, Vietnam and Malaysia
October 21st, 10:28am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, will begin 
tomorrow, the 22nd, an official tour.. of three Southeast 
Asian nations, with the aim of strengthening strategic 
and economic links with a region of growing 
global influence.
 
The agenda, which runs from October 22 to 28, according to
 a presidential statement released today, includes state 
visits to Indonesia and Vietnam, and a working visit to 
Malaysia, where the president will also attend the 
47th Summit of the Association of Southeast 
Asian Nations (ASEAN) as a guest of
 the Presidency.
 
Local analysts consider that this tour reflects Pretoria's foreign 
policy, aimed at diversifying its international alliances and 
building bridges of economic and political cooperation 
with key actors in a global context in transformation, 
beyond traditional partners.
 
According to the text.... the first stop will be in Indonesia, at the 
invitation of his counterpart - President Prabowo Subianto. The 
official program in Jakarta includes a private meeting between 
both leaders and subsequent expanded bilateral talks with 
their ministerial delegations.
 
Discussions are expected to focus on expanding cooperation in 
key sectors - such as trade, agriculture, tourism and defence, in 
order to diversify trade in a volatile global context. The bilateral 
relationship, formalized in 1994, the document recalls, has its 
roots in historical ties dating back to the 17th century and 
solid political solidarity. Indonesia was a frontal critic of 
the apartheid regime and a strong supporter of the 
South African liberation movement.
 
Currently, both nations are partners within the BRICS bloc, 
adding an additional strategic dimension to their 
relationship ---- and reinforcing their shared 
commitment to South-South cooperation.
 
Prior to the state visit, the statement reveals, a South Africa-
Indonesia Business Forum was held, focused on identifying 
investment opportunities in mining, manufacturing, 
infrastructure and the green economy.
 
Ramaphosa will subsequently travel to Vietnam for a state visit on 
October 23 and 24, where it is expected to deepen an economic 
association that has shown sustained growth in recent years.
 
The tour will conclude in Malaysia, where from October 25 to 28, it 
will hold high-level work meetings. His participation in the ASEAN 
Summit underlines South Africa's commitment to South-South 
dialogue - and strengthening interregional cooperation.
 
 
________________________________________________
 


Polisario Front ------ Offers Direct Talks 
With Morocco Under UN Supervision
October 21st, 8:50am
(teleSUR)
 
On Monday, Polisario Front leader Brahim Ghali sent a letter 
to United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres 
expressing his willingness.. to “engage in direct and 
serious negotiations with the Kingdom of Morocco”
 under the auspices of the United Nations.
 
The letter includes a Polisario proposal ---- to hold a referendum 
supervised by the United Nations and the African Union and to 
convey the Sahrawi State’s readiness... to negotiate with 
Morocco “the establishment of strategic and mutually
 beneficial relations between the two countries.”
 
The letter was presented to the UN secretary-general under the 
title “Proposal of the Polisario Front for a Mutually Acceptable 
Political Solution Providing for the Self-Determination of the 
People of Western Sahara and Restoring Regional Peace 
and Stability.”
 
The Polisario offered “good-faith, unconditional negotiations” 
based on “the spirit and content of the expanded proposal, 
with a view to achieving a peaceful and lasting solution 
that ensures the self-determination of the 
Sahrawi people.”
 
The Sahrawi independence movement described the resolution 
of the conflict as “urgent” and called for moving away from 
“solutions based on the status quo and unilaterally 
imposed,” urging all sides to “have the political 
courage and foresight needed - to 
work together.”
 
The Polisario Front said its proposal responds to United Nations 
Security Council (UNSC) resolutions that stress the importance 
of both parties “broadening their positions” ....in order to 
promote a solution.
 
On Oct. 31, the UNSC is scheduled to discuss the extension of 
the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western
 Sahara (MINURSO).
 
Peace negotiations remain stalled despite ongoing contacts 
by the UN secretary-general’s personal envoy for Western 
Sahara, Staffan de Mistura.. who last visited the Sahrawi 
refugee camps in Algeria’s Tindouf region in September.
 
Morocco proposes granting the territory autonomy under its 
sovereignty. In 2020, however.. the Polisario Front declared 
the 1991 ceasefire with Rabat void, reiterating its demand
 for self-determination through a referendum.
 
A Stalemate Between Sovereignty and Independence
 
Western Sahara, a former Spanish colony, is considered a non-
self-governing territory in the process of decolonization. 
Morocco currently controls about 80% of the area, but 
the United Nations has not recognized Moroccan 
sovereignty over it.
 
The conflict between Morocco and the Polisario Front centres 
on the disputed territory of Western Sahara, located on 
Africa’s northwest coast. After Spain withdrew in 
1975, both Morocco and Mauritania claimed 
the territory.
 
The indigenous Sahrawi people, represented by the Polisario 
Front — a liberation movement founded in 1973 — sought 
independence rather than integration with either 
neighbouring country.
 
Morocco, however, asserted historical sovereignty over the 
territory, while the Polisario Front, backed by Algeria, 
declared the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic 
(SADR) in 1976, claiming full independence.
 
A protracted war between Morocco and the Polisario Front, lasted 
from 1975 to 1991. During that period, Morocco gained control of 
about two-thirds of Western Sahara and built a heavily fortified 
sand wall, known as the “Moroccan Berm,” to secure its hold
 on the region.
 
The Polisario Front operated mainly from refugee camps in Tindouf, 
Algeria, conducting guerrilla warfare against the Moroccan forces. 
The United Nations brokered a ceasefire in 1991 and established 
MINURSO to organize a self-determination referendum. However, 
disputes over voter eligibility and political disagreements have 
delayed the vote.... indefinitely.
 
The conflict remains unresolved. Morocco considers Western 
Sahara an integral part of its national territory and proposes 
limited autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty, while the 
Polisario Front continues to demand full independence 
for the Sahrawi people.
 
Sporadic clashes --- have resumed since 2020, and diplomatic 
tensions persist among Morocco, Algeria, and other regional 
actors. Despite international efforts, including UN-led 
negotiations, the status of Western Sahara, remains 
one of Africa’s longest-running and most complex 
territorial disputes.
 
 
_______________________________________________
 

 
G20 Incorporates Environmental 
Issues Proposed by South Africa
October 21st, 7:39am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The G20 incorporated for the first time in its history, under the 
management of South Africa, two crucial issues on its global 
agenda: air quality and crimes that affect the environment.
 
The adoption was materialized through the Cape Town Ministerial 
Declaration on Air Quality & the Ministerial Declaration on Crimes 
Affecting the Environment, marking a unanimous recognition of
 its urgency ......and its transversal impact on populations, 
ecosystems and economies.
 
In this regard --- the Minister of Forests, Fisheries and Environment, 
Dion George, highlighted that this diplomatic achievement reflects 
the leadership of the African nation during his presidency -- of the 
G20 Working Group on Environmental and Climate Sustainability.
 
“These issues reflect the daily realities of our citizens: the air they 
breathe, the security of their natural heritage and the rule of law 
that protects it. We managed to place these critical issues at
 the top of the global agenda, protecting our people and our
 environment, ensuring that justice and health go hand in
 hand”, he said.
 
The Declaration on Environmental Crimes calls for strengthened 
international cooperation to combat the illegal wildlife trade,
deforestation, illegal mining and waste trafficking, and 
trans-national crimes that undermine environmental 
security, societies, and economic integrity.
 
The document commits forum members, to foster synergies 
between policies and sectors, mobilize financial resources, 
improve data and monitoring systems and expand support
 to the communities most affected by air pollution.
 
Together, both statements represent a turning point on the global 
environmental agenda - and reflect South Africa's position, which 
links environmental protection to social & economic well-being. 
 
The results of these decisions will be integrated into the 
G20 Leaders' Declaration, to be considered at the next 
Johannesburg Summit.
 
In parallel to this achievement, the South African government 
reaffirmed its position ahead of the 30th Conference of the 
Parties (COP30) of the United Nations Framework 
Convention on Climate Change ---- which will be 
held in Belém, Brazil, from November 10 to 21.
 
The Minister demanded a significant increase in climate finance 
for developing economies, stressing that this support --- should
 not generate new debt burdens.
 
“Nations with developing economies require predictable and 
accessible financing, expanded for mitigation, adaptation 
and loss and damage”, he said.
 
These resources should be in the form of grants and concessional 
financing, not through new loans, the minister declared during 
the National Consultation of Social Actors for COP30, 
held in Johannesburg.
 
George stressed that climate finance is central to meaningful 
action and recalled that developed countries have a legal 
obligation, under Article 9.1 of the Paris Agreement, 
to provide this support.
 
The minister also referred to the New Quantified Collective Goal, 
adopted at COP29, and the Roadmap from Baku to Belém, 
which aims to mobilize 1.3 trillion dollars annually,
 by 2035.
 
“The world must move from promises to practice. Every decision
 in Belém must come ---- with an implementation, financing and 
accountability plan”, he concluded.
 
 
_______________________________________________
 
 
 
Paramilitaries -- bomb 
the Khartoum airport
October 21st, 7:38am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Sudanese paramilitaries bombed Khartoum international airport 
with drones today, less than 24 hours after its reopening.
 
The air terminal was recovered by the Army -- last March, after 
almost two years in the hands of the so-called Rapid Support 
Forces (RSF), almost since the start of the war in April 2023.
 
According to the Sudanese news portal Sudan Tribune, the 
airport's air defense intercepted several drones, although 
several possible impacts were seen.
 
It has not yet been reported by the authorities, whether there 
are victims.... as well as the extent of the damage left by 
the attack.
 
The air terminal of this capital was scheduled to begin its 
nationwide reopening tomorrow, Wednesday, after 
numerous renovation works, after having 
suspended its operations after the 
outbreak of a war between the 
official Army, and the RSF.
 
 
__________________________________
 
 
 
Angola aspires to a 10%
 mining share of GDP
October 21st, 7:34am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Angola creates conditions today for the diversification and 
growth of mining production, with a view to achieving a 
10 percent participation of the sector in the Gross 
Domestic Product (GDP) by 2035.
 
Currently mining represents 2% of GDP, focused fundamentally 
on diamond extraction, an issue that must be transformed 
with ongoing projects linked to the production of gold,
 iron, copper, phosphate and rare earth minerals.
 
The opportunities that the country offers in this area, the 
existing challenges and the sustainability of initiatives 
were addressed this Tuesday at the Angola Mining 
Summit 2025, at the Talatona Convention Centre,
 in Luanda, which brought together business
people and investors from the sector.
 
Engineer Joao Chimuco, executive director of the National Mineral 
Resources Agency (ANRM), pointed out that the country has only
 40 percent of the territory geologically mapped, therefore, the 
potential identified so far.... might be even greater.
 
Angola can become an important player on the international stage, 
he noted, but it must first work on issues such as insufficient 
infrastructure, including the lack of electrical energy in 
mining enclaves which lack transmission networks,
 despite the fact that the country generates 
more electricity ....than it consumes.
 
He also indicated the need to advance rail 
connections for the transportation 
of materials.
 
Other challenges identified are illegal mining activity, 
especially gold and diamonds, in addition to the low 
processing of raw materials, locally.
 
Chimuco explained that the national strategy towards 2035 
includes five fundamental pillars, among which the 
diversification of mining production stands out, 
to reduce dependence on diamonds, and 
along this path.... progress is already 
being made ------ in projects for the 
extraction of copper and niobium.
 
Likewise, the local transformation of materials, the promotion 
of investments, establishing modern legal regulation, as well 
as defending the sustainability of all projects.... constitute 
essential axes.
 
This Tuesday's meeting was held under the motto Mining, 
innovation and sustainability in Angola, and was 
organized by the ANRM and the Brazilian 
Mining Institute.
 
The Angolan Secretary of State for Mineral Resources, 
Janio Correa Victor, and the executive director of the 
Brazilian Mining Institute, Gustavo Cruz, led the 
work sessions.
 
At the opening, Correa Victor highlighted the role of the event 
in sharing knowledge, debating strategic issues, generating 
partnerships and identifying spaces for investment.
 
Among the issues addressed during the meeting were 
current trends on critical minerals --- and the 
innovation and sustainability of projects
 in the sector, among others.
 
 
___________________________________________
 
 
 
US and EU Funding Cuts - Push Nigeria to
the Brink of a Major 
Hunger Emergency
October 21st, 4:29am
(teleSUR)
 
As U.S. and Western funding declines, aid agencies warn of a 
worsening hunger crisis in northern Nigeria, where millions 
rely on shrinking humanitarian assistance.
 
Food and nutrition insecurity in northeast Nigeria was exacerbated 
by tightening constraints on humanitarian access, increased food 
prices, and supply chain disruptions... associated with events in 
Ukraine. Nigeria’s rural population struggled to grow food on 
unsafe or damaged land. Retailers of food and fuel 
dependent on imports faced challenges in 
managing the steep decline in the value
 of the naira against other currencies. 
 
As the current decade approaches its mid-point, Nigeria remains 
far from its goal of achieving zero hunger by 2030. The WFP has 
been providing General Food Assistance (GFA) through Cash-
Based Transfers (CBT) to internally displaced persons (IDPs)
 and other food insecure people in North-East Nigeria since 
2016. WFP has scaled up its activities over the years to 
support IDPs and vulnerable beneficiaries affected by 
crises in both urban and rural areas to reach almost 
1 million people with cash based transfers in 2022.
 
Nigeria is facing an escalating hunger emergency as international 
aid agencies warn that funding cuts — led by a drastic reduction
 in U.S. assistance — are crippling efforts to support millions of 
displaced people in the country’s conflict-affected north. The 
World Food Programme estimates that 600,000 children are 
at risk of dying from malnutrition ------- if relief operations 
continue to shrink.
 
Humanitarian groups report that, while needs across Nigeria have 
surged ---- resources have plummeted. The WFP has already been 
forced to close more than 150 nutrition clinics that once treated 
malnourished children and infants.
 
“There are millions of people --- who need our help,” said Ancel 
Kats of the WFP in Nigeria. “But the funding isn’t forthcoming.”
 
Until earlier this year, the US provided over half of Nigeria’s 
humanitarian aid. That support collapsed shortly after 
President Donald Trump announced the dismantling
 of the U.S. Agency for International Development 
(USAID), causing an abrupt drop in foreign aid. 
Several European governments have also 
reduced their ''development'' budgets, 
deepening the financial strain on 
relief programs.
 
Aid organisations managed to absorb some of the shortfall in the 
first half of the year, but the effects are now stark. The WFP 
faces a funding gap - of more than $115 million in Nigeria 
alone and is cutting its help ---- across the continent.
 
In the town of Bama, in Borno State — one of the epicentres 
of the displacements caused by ongoing violence ------- food
distributions are NOW being cut back. “They all depend 
on WFP to distribute this food for them to eat,” said 
Soumbami Tukunabo... an ''aid worker'' with the 
Italian organisation -- InterSOS. “It would be
 very bad to tell them that - due to funding
cuts there is going to be a 
reduction
in caseloads.”
 
The crisis extends beyond food relief. Since the end of USAID 
operations, Nigeria lost $600 million in health sector support 
— roughly one-fifth of its total health budget — threatening 
basic services such as disease prevention, maternal 
care, and nutrition programs.
 
As humanitarian funding recedes and displacement continues, 
aid agencies warn that Nigeria could face one of Africa’s 
gravest hunger crises in decades. Without renewed
 international commitment, they say, millions of 
lives may soon depend... on an aid system
...no 
longer able to respond.
 
 
______________________________________________________


 Culture unites peoples 
of Cuba and Angola
October 20th, 6:06pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
“La Bayamesa”, a war song that has become the national anthem 
of Cuba and a symbol of identity of the Caribbean nation, was 
heard today with an Angolan and Cuban accent in Luanda, 
just on the date of his 157th birthday.
 
Convened by the Cuban embassy to commemorate that event,
which consecrated October 20th --- as National Culture Day, 
representatives of both countries and guests of the 
accredited diplomatic corps attended the 
Dr. António Agostinho Neto 
Memorial Centre.
 
Music, dance, poems, plastic arts and a review of the history 
of the creation of the piece were among the elements of the 
program, which was witnessed by the Angolan Secretary of 
State for Culture, Maria da Piedade de Jesus, among other 
members of the Government and organizations.
 
The closeness between both peoples, the common history built 
over half a century - which will be celebrated next November 
15 - and even much earlier, made it possible for several of 
those present to sing as their own ------- the anthem that 
called on Cubans since 1868 to fight for their freedom.
 
The Cuban ambassador Oscar León highlighted the African 
footprint in the culture of his country -- which also has its
roots in these towns --- well, around 1,300,000 Africans 
were taken as slaves to the archipelago.
 
Their customs, traditions, rhythms and foods were integrated 
and today they are part of a cultural legacy enriched over
the centuries, which identifies and unites us, he noted.
 
The diplomat highlighted the efforts to preserve these ties and
 noted that a Memorandum of Understanding is ready to be 
signed between the Ministries of Culture of Angola and 
Cuba, which seeks to promote the reinforcement of 
collaboration in this area.
 
He commented that in the last two years exchanges between the 
two nations have been maintained, and mentioned in particular 
the visit of the Secretary of State for Culture, who participated 
in the Jazz Plaza Festival, the International Conference of the
 Decade of People of African Descent - and toured the Higher 
Institute of Art.
 
Pianist Dimbo Makiesse and tenor Isau Fortunato, who shared their 
art with those present, also spoke of their admiration for the music 
and musicians of the Caribbean nation.
 
The Cuban painter Yasiel Palomino, who has lived in Angola for 
almost 10 years, painted a piece during the celebration that 
he donated to the Agostinho Neto Memorial, as a symbol 
of friendship between both peoples.
 
The Angolan poet Jolena and the Cuban declaimer 
Miguel García .....completed the program.
 
Those present ...could also get a little closer to the seven Cuban 
elements that make up the Representative List of the Intangible 
Cultural Heritage of Humanity: the French Tomb, the Cuban 
Rumba, the Cuban Point ....and the Parrandas of the 
central region.
 
It is also made up of the Knowledge of the masters of light rum; 
Bolero, in conjunction with Mexico, and traditional knowledge 
and practices for the manufacture and consumption of 
cassava bread, in conjunction with the Dominican 
Republic, Haiti, Honduras, and Venezuela.
 
 
_____________________________________________



Post-election tension ---
escalates in Cameroon
October 20th, 10:57am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The tension in the Cameroonian political situation is more 
evident today ....due to accusations of electoral fraud 
in last week's presidential elections.
 
We are for alternation (in power), said Issa Tchiroma Bakary, 
who competed in the race with the incumbent president, 
Paul Biya, candidate for re-election in the elections on
 Sunday the 12th of this month.
 
Maneuvers are underway to use fraud and favour the 
president, Bakary said at a rally with his supporters.
 
Likewise, he urged the Constitutional Court 
to validate the will of the voters.
 
Just 48 hours after the closing of the voting centers, the 
opposition candidate, was proclaimed the winner of the 
consultation, an allegation that he repeats almost daily.
 
From Biya's side, silence persists about the accusations and 
the Electoral Commission limited itself to remembering that 
the Constitutional Court is the authority in charge of 
announcing and publishing the official results for 
which has a maximum period of 15 days 
from the close of voting.
 
 
____________________________________
 
 
 
Government reforms try to calm 
the young people in Morocco
October 20th, 5:48am
Prensa Latina) 
 
After weeks of protest demonstrations, the Moroccan 
Government agreed to several institutional reforms 
that contemplate improvements for Education 
and Health, it was learned here today.
 
The Cabinet reported - that the meeting of the Council of 
Ministers was held the day before - at the Royal Palace 
of this capital.. headed by monarch Mohamed VI, and
it was dedicated to the examination of the Finance
 bill for 2026..... presented by the Minister of
Economy 
and Finance, Nadia Fetá.
 
Political observers highlight this Monday -- that the reforms
 are trying to calm popular spirits, after several weeks of 
demonstrations... against the Government and the 
educational and health system, which left at 
least three dead and dozens arrested.
 
According to Minister Fetá, the changes... seek to achieve
a national development that combines social justice and 
integrated territorial development, which includes an 
increase in spending on education and health.
 
The proposals also contemplate intensifying efforts for 
the insertion of young people and women into the 
world of work, highlighted the Moroccan state 
news agency, MAP.
 
The demonstrations, which occurred, were considered the 
largest in Morocco in years and spread to several cities 
despite the lack of permits from the authorities.
 
Participants in the protests denounced widespread corruption 
while many schools and hospitals are underfunded ---- and 
remain in a sorry state.
 
This chaos unfolded amid political campaigns 
for the 2026 parliamentary elections.
 
The demonstrations - were also attended by representatives of 
opposition political parties, such as the United Socialist Party 
(PSU), which expressed concern about the repression of 
the authorities --- in numerous cities and towns.
 
 
_____________________________________


Türkiye increases trade
with Africa
October 18th, 12:34pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Türkiye's Minister of Commerce, Ömer Bolat, announced today 
that the volume of trade between his country and the African 
continent will reach 40 billion dollars this year, with the 
prospect of reaching 50 billion by 2028.
 
During the closing of the Türkiye-Africa Economic and Business 
Forum, held in Istanbul under the auspices of the Ministry of 
Commerce and in coordination with the African Union, 
Bolat highlighted that trade relations between 
Türkiye and Africa have increased sevenfold 
in the last two decades, consolidating an 
alliance based on mutual respect, 
equity and shared benefit.
 
The forum, organized by the Board of Foreign 
Economic Relations (DEIK), brought together 
government representatives, entrepreneurs 
and leaders of regional organizations 
under the motto “Strengthening 
Turkish-African relations to 
share mutual benefits”.
 
Bolat recalled that since 2003, the year in which Türkiye 
officially adopted a policy of openness towards Africa, 
strategic steps -- have been taken to strengthen 
cooperation. Among them, he highlighted that 
Ankara was recognized as an observer state 
of the African Union in 2005 and as a 
strategic partner in 2008, in addition 
to having signed multiple bilateral 
agreements with countries on 
the continent.
 
Likewise, he emphasized that institutions such as Turkish 
Airlines, the Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA), 
the Maarif Foundation and various Turkish civil society 
organizations have an active presence in the region, 
contributing to development in sectors such as 
education, infrastructure, health 
and transportation.
 
Our vision towards Africa is a partnership between equals, 
focused on justice and sharing benefits, stated the head 
of the Economy, who also highlighted --- that Turkish 
investments in Africa generate jobs for hundreds 
of thousands of people ....and promote 
local production.
 
 
________________________________________
 
 
 
South Africa promotes agricultural 
research in the face of 
climate change
October 18th, 6:54am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
South Africa's National Planning Commission (NPC) advances
 key research on agriculture and irrigation to counter climate 
change and ensure food security.
 
In this regard, Commissioner Lebogang Pheko warned about 
scenarios where crops such as wheat are scarce due to 
climatic variations, raising the costs of basic foods and 
threatening cultural traditions linked to food.
 
The NPC, an independent advisory body created by President 
Cyril Ramaphosa and custodian of the National Development 
Plan (NDP), prioritizes studies to eliminate poverty by 2030 
through economic growth, exports..... and greater 
labour absorption.
 
Pheko, one of the 26 commissioners and senior political 
economist, explained that the research addresses 
innovative agricultural methods, small business 
development, reduction of bureaucracy and 
water infrastructure, in a context of water 
scarcity aggravated by the climate.
 
Chapter six of the NDP highlights the rural agricultural potential 
to generate nearly one million jobs by 2030, with the plant 
industry as an engine of job creation and improvement of 
livelihoods, in the face of growing demand in South 
Africa and the south of the continent.
 
«We consider water scarcity and its impacts on harvest seasons 
and availability of traditional foods», Pheko explained, under-
lining the need to reconfigure the national agricultural 
footprint and attract young people to the sector, 
and integrating it ----- into the national 
construction discourse.
 
Data from the South African Chamber of Agricultural Business 
(Agbiz) indicates that agricultural exports reached a record 
of $13.7 billion in 2024, with 44 percent directed to Africa. 
Since 1994, the value and volume of the sector has 
doubled, directly employing 924 thousand people.
 
The NPC projects intergenerational scenarios beyond 2030, 
reimagining socio-agricultural, water and energy needs,
 in a complex economy due to extractive legacies 
and educational deficiencies.
 
Before the G20 Summit in November, the NPC advocates for 
African inclusion, global collaborations against crises such 
as climate change and food insecurity, taking advantage 
of the group's weight  ------ at 85 percent of world GDP.
 
 
___________________________________________
 
 

Cairo to Lead Global Push for Gaza 
Recovery; Funding and Planning 
Underway
October 18th, 5:39am
(teleSUR)
 
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty held a phone 
conversation Friday with Palestinian Prime Minister 
Mohammad Mustafa to advance preparations for 
a high-level conference on rebuilding the Gaza 
Strip, set to take place in Cairo........... in 
late November.
 
According to Foreign Ministry spokesman Tamer Khafagy, 
the two officials reviewed logistical and political details 
of the upcoming event, including its goals, anticipated 
outcomes, and mechanisms for coordinating 
international funding commitments. They 
also discussed the urgency of updating 
assessments.... of the extensive 
destruction across Gaza.
 
Abdelatty stressed that Egypt expects broad participation 
from governments and international organizations, noting
 the conference is being convened with key global 
partners under the mandate of the previously 
endorsed Arab-Islamic summit.
 
Prime Minister Mustafa praised Egypt’s diplomatic leadership 
and thanked Cairo for hosting the conference and pushing 
for a permanent halt to the war in Gaza. He also 
commended..... Egypt’s continued defense of 
Palestinian rights in international forums.
 
Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly confirmed that the 
reconstruction framework has already been endorsed by 
Arab and Islamic states, as well as by several major 
world powers. He added that now that the Gaza 
agreement has been signed, the overall vision 
is being converted into a detailed 
implementation plan complete 
with timelines.......... and 
funding channels.
 
 
_____________________________________________



Ural cars may be....... 
assembled in Uganda
October 17th, 2:16pm
 (Izvestia.ru)
 
A large-scale assembly plant for Ural cars may be 
established in Uganda. This was announced on 
October 17 by Vladlen Semivolos, Russia's
 Ambassador to Uganda, after the third 
meeting of the Intergovernmental 
Commission for Economic and 
Scientific-Technical 
Cooperation in 
Kampala.
 
"Among the specific projects approved at the meeting,
it is worth noting ----- the plans for companies of our 
countries, to create an enterprise for large-scale 
assembly of Ural cars in Uganda to meet the 
needs of East African countries," TASS 
quoted Semivolos as saying, on 
October 17.
 
According to the diplomat, the event also focused on 
cooperation in the fields of trade, industry, finance 
and banking, energy, agriculture, construction, 
transport, education, healthcare, and others. 
 
The parties signed a final protocol that outlined specific 
areas of trade, investment, and industrial cooperation 
for the foreseeable future.
 
Earlier, on May 23, it was reported that the Ural automotive 
plant opened a new building for the assembly of trucks of 
increased labour intensity. The opening of the site.. will 
allow to increase the total production capacity of the 
enterprise by more than 5.5 thousand cars per year.
 
 
_____________________________________



President of Angola received 
envoys.... from Zambia 
and Mozambique
October 17th, 12:44pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of Angola, Joao Lourenco, received today the 
Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of 
Zambia, Mulamba Haimbe, who gave the president a letter
 from his counterpart, Hakainde Hichilema.
 
The special envoy commented to the press after the meeting 
that the letter addresses aspects related to strengthening 
bilateral relations in various areas.
 
The Angolan head of state and president of the Popular 
Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) party,
also granted an audience on Friday to the general 
secretary of the Mozambique Liberation Front 
party (Frelimo), Ghakie Aboobacar.
 
Both parties spoke at the Presidential Palace of Ciudad Alta 
about the historic and friendly relations that exist between 
the two towns and political formations, according to what 
Aboobacar told the press.
 
On the same day, Lourenço also spoke with the president of the 
National Liberation Front of Angola (FNLA) party, Nimi a Simbi, 
with whom he discussed issues related to the current 
political situation in the country.
 
The FNLA leader commented - after the meeting, that he took the 
opportunity to thank the president for the decision to award the 
commemorative medal for 50 years of national independence 
to Álvaro Holden Roberto, one of the signatories of the Alvor 
Agreements and president of the FNLA for several decades.
 
 
______________________________________________________
 
 
 
Ambush causes casualties to 
Nigerian security forces
October 17th, 12:44pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
An ambush set by unknown persons on a caravan in the north 
of the country cost the lives of eight soldiers and police, 
official Nigerian sources admitted today.
 
The action occurred in the state of Zamfara, near 
Borno, headquarters of the Islamist group Boko 
Haram, suspected of the action, although the 
report only identifies the attackers as 
“bandits” and does not specify.
 
If the conjecture is proven, the ambush marks the restart of
the operations of that entity --- although the Islamic State 
also operates in the West African Province in the area.
 
The frequent attacks by both insurgents, are the main 
headache for the central government of this country, 
Africa's largest oil producer.
 
 
 
_________________________________________
 
 
 
South Africa promotes exports 
to Africa ......at trade fair
October 17th, 10:51am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
South Africa intensified its strategy of diversifying export 
markets to the African continent, after concluding an 
Export Symposium and Exhibition organized for 
this purpose.
 
The event, organized by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry 
and Competition (dtic), brought together more than 130 
local exporters from sectors with high added value 
and growth, for three days.
 
The director of Export Promotion of the dtic, Zanele Sanni, 
confirmed that the event reinforced the commitment to 
reduce dependence on a small group of traditional 
trading partners.
 
“The symposium - underlined the urgency of diversifying our 
markets and strengthening intra-African trade”, the official 
stated on the occasion -- by highlighting the key role of
the 
African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
 
Sanni also considered that this agreement represents a 
catalyst for the expansion of South African foreign 
sales, especially in the face of disruptions and
 increasing tariffs in the global market.
 
The program included four panel discussions on export 
financing, inclusive growth ....and the role of trade 
agreements in accessing new destinations.
 
Buyers from Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, Egypt and Malawi 
participated in business rounds with South African 
companies in automotive components, 
technology, agribusiness, mining 
machinery and brand services.
 
“That the majority of buyers are African confirms our ambition 
to direct export growth towards the continent, with value-
added manufactured products”, Sanni stressed.
 
At the expo, delegates asked the government to accelerate 
the finalization of rules of origin for sensitive sectors, a 
step considered crucial to building regional value 
chains and generating employment.
 
In this regard, the Vice Minister of Commerce, Zuko Godlimpi, in 
charge of the opening, announced that the Export Symposium 
will evolve..... and expand to other African countries, to 
showcase its manufacturing capabilities.
 
“Each African nation has the potential to produce value-added 
goods, supply each other and strengthen intra-African trade, 
exceeding the current levels of 15 to 16 percent”, he said.
 
 
__________________________________
 
 
 
Post-election tensions 
increase in Cameroon
October 17th, 9:59am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The perpetrators of the fire at an office of the Popular 
Democratic Movement (MPD - in government) in the 
autonomous county of Daxchang (west) remain
 anonymous today.
 
The action occurred on Wednesday - amid political tensions 
unleashed by the self-proclamation of victory in last week's 
presidential election by Tchiroma Bakary, 43 --- who vied
with President Paul Biya, 93 years old, and 43 years in 
power --- as his rival candidate for re-election.
 
The local authorities announced an investigation 
to find the perpetrators of the intentional fire.
 
The post-election incidents are added to those generated by the 
actions of an armed militia created by the English-speaking 
community, based in the northwest and southwest of 
Cameroon, whose members denounce what they 
describe as discrimination by the French-
speaking majority that monopolizes 
the government - and the 
instruments of power: 
the Armed Forces 
and the Police.
 
The attack on the ruling party headquarters heralds the 
outbreak of violent incidents -- if the result favours 
President Biya.. whose health was questioned 
months ago, but they seem dissipated after 
the president's return to the country......
 from a private visit to Europe.
 
 
______________________________________
 
 
 
Communist Party of Cuba greets
 XXII National Conference 
of ZANU-PF 
October 17th, 8:27am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba 
today sent a message to the XXII National Conference 
of the African National Union of Zimbabwe – Patriotic 
Front (ZANU-PF).
 
On behalf of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of 
Cuba we send a fraternal greeting to the dear colleagues and 
brothers of ZANU-PF, at the same time, we wish you success
 in holding your XXII National Conference, indicates the 
message presented by the Ambassador, Suselys
 Pérez Mesa.
 
On this very significant occasion -- he adds -- we ratify the will to 
continue deepening excellent interparty relations, based on the 
Exchange and Cooperation Agreement, signed in January 2025
 ....during the visit of the member of the Political Bureau and 
Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Simbarashe Mumbengegwi.
 
The message thanks ZANU-PF and the people of Zimbabwe for 
their unwavering solidarity in the fight to lift the criminal and 
genocidal economic, commercial and financial blockade, 
imposed more than six decades ago ------ by the US.
 
It also recognizes the position of the African nation in 
demanding the elimination of Cuba from the list of 
States supposedly sponsoring terrorism.
 
According to the Communist Party of Cuba, in the face of the 
resurgence of fascist forces and the indiscriminate use of 
force, we must continue to promote unity between leftist 
and progressive forces ---- in defense of peace around 
the world.
 
Be convinced that we will continue working together to face 
the great global challenges, concludes the message to the 
XXII National Conference of ZANU-PF, to the event in this 
city, about 260 kilometres southeast of Harare.
 
 
______________________________________
 
 
 
South Africa participates in 
G7 development meeting
October 17th, 7:30am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
South African Planning Minister, Maropene Ramokgopa, 
heads his country's delegation at the G7 Development 
Ministerial Meeting being held today in Washington.
 
In accordance with an official statement to this effect 
released here, Ramokgopa will reaffirm in the 
conclave -- South Africa's efforts to promote 
collective actions ---- that accelerate the 
fulfillment of both national and global 
development objectives.
 
South African participation.. also seeks to continue the work 
carried out in his current pro tempore presidency of the G20.
 
Under the minister's leadership, the G20 development meeting 
last July in South Africa's Kruger National Park adopted the 
Skukuza Ministerial Declaration by consensus. This 
document established key positions on universal 
social protection --- and the fight against illicit 
financial flows.
 
At that meeting, Ramokgopa presented a statement on 
the financing of Global Public Goods, which included 
principles for international cooperation and the 
proposal to create an Ubuntu Commission to
 follow up on these initiatives.
 
The G7 meeting takes place within the framework of the annual 
meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World 
Bank Group. In addition to her intervention at the 
ministerial forum, the S. African representative 
will hold bilateral and strategic meetings.
 
According to local analysts, South Africa's presence 
in this forum reinforces its active role in global 
development governance, promoting the 
consensus reached, during his recent 
G20 presidency, and advocating --- 
for more effective South-North
 cooperation mechanisms.
 
 
____________________________



Malagasy military leader promises
 civilian government ....soon
October 16th, 2:26pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
In Madagascar there was no coup d'état, the Constitutional 
Court declared a presidential vacancy and we took office, 
the head of the military movement that governs the 
country explained today.
 
A Coup d'état is when armed men assault the Executive mansion 
and there is bloodshed, General Michael Randrianirina told 
reporters, as the visible head of the movement that put 
the Malagasy president, Andry Rajoelina, to flight....
 now missing.
 
The president's escape was advised, after several days of street 
protests called by the online platform Generation Z
Madagascar - which at its peak - was joined by
military groups.
 
Protesters denounced the lack of public services and 
job opportunities in this African island country in
the
 Indian Ocean.
 
The soldier - who spoke without documentary support, also 
promised the formation of a “government made up mostly 
of civilians” ...shortly ------- without specifying the date
or 
political inclination of the members of that 
hypothetical cabinet.
 
 
___________________________________________
 
 
 
African Union demands: to restore 
Malagasy constitutional order
October 16th, 1pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The African Union (AU) reported today that it will send a high-
level delegation to Madagascar, which will dialogue with the 
parties in conflict in that country, with a view to peacefully 
restoring constitutional order.
 
An official note from the continental organization specified that
 the President of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali 
Youssouf, stressed, in this sense, the urgency --- of joining 
diplomatic efforts to establish genuine and constructive
 talks between authorities, political parties, and 
other actors.
 
After considering that such actions are carried out jointly, with the
 Community of Southern African States, the AU document detailed 
that in addition to the beginning of dialogue and consultations at 
the national level, it is expected to restore stability, social 
cohesion and the defense of governance in the country.
 
The declaration is made after the day before the AU Peace and 
Security Council suspended the participation of Madagascar 
and its institutions in all the organization's activities until 
constitutional order is restored.
 
This takes place shortly after an elite unit of the Malagasy Army 
staged a military coup in the country, and the Constitutional 
Court (TC) issued a resolution ------- on the vacancy in 
the Presidency.
 
The new Malagasy military authorities indicated that Colonel 
Michael Randrianina will be sworn in tomorrow before the 
TC, and will replace Andry Rajoelina as president of the 
country, who, after denouncing a coup d'état against 
him, took refuge -- in a place that had not been told.
 
Along with the announcement of the formation of a Transitional 
National Defense Council, the president to be confirmed 
expressed that among the first measures he will adopt
 are the annulment of the 2010 Constitution and 
other State bodies.
 
The situation in Madagascar became even more tense and 
volatile last weekend when the military joined popular 
protests, which began three weeks ago.
 
During the massive mobilizations, the protesters demanded, 
among other demands -- an end to government corruption, 
nepotism and stopping the increase in the cost of living, 
local media reported.
 
 
___________________________________________
 
 
 
Foreign Ministers of Venezuela and 
Tunisia strengthen friendship 
and cooperation
October 16th, 12:34pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Foreign Minister of Venezuela, Yván Gil, and his Tunisian 
counterpart, Mohamed Ali Nafti, held a meeting today in the 
capital, to continue strengthening their ties of friendship 
and cooperation.
 
The meeting was held in the context of the final day of 
the Intermediate Summit of Foreign Ministers of the 
Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), which met for two
 days in Kampala, Uganda.
 
Gil thanked the head of Foreign Affairs, Migration and Tunisians 
Abroad for his country's solidarity in the face of the threats 
facing Venezuela and the Caribbean --- he published on 
his Telegram account.
 
The senior diplomats reaffirmed their “firm 
commitment --- to the unity of our people”.
 
As part of his agenda in the North African state, the Venezuelan 
Minister for Foreign Affairs also met yesterday with his Cuban 
counterpart, Bruno Rodríguez, to whom he expressed “deep 
gratitude for his unwavering voice in denouncing the 
dangerous military deployment of the US ---- in 
the Caribbean”.
 
The Bolivarian Foreign Minister denounced: that 
this threat “puts the lives of our people at risk”.
 
Venezuela will always reject the criminal blockade imposed 
on Cuba, as well as the unilateral coercive measures that 
affect the Venezuelan people, he stressed.
 
Gil also spoke with his counterpart from Iran, Seyed Abbas 
Araqchi, on which occasion they reviewed the broad and 
strategic bilateral alliance, which “is based on friend-
ship and the shared objective of defending our self-
determination and sovereignty”.
 
He also thanked Iran for its firm stance towards the hostilities of 
the United States Government and its unconditional support in
 the midst of ------- the disinformation campaign and threats 
directed against Venezuela.
 
The senior Bolivarian diplomat also met the day before with 
the Palestinian ambassador to the UN, Riyad Mansour, 
and he reaffirmed “Venezuela's firm solidarity with 
the Palestinian people --- and their legitimate 
historical right - to return to their lands 
and rebuild their homeland”.
 
 He considered this a fight for justice, that 
the people of the world will continue to 
firmly support.
 
The Bolivarian minister... also spoke with the Minister of
Foreign Affairs of Uganda, Haji Abubaker Jeje Odongo,
and with his 
counterpart from Belarus,
Maksim Ryzhenkov.

In a 
Special Statement released here, the NAM 
expressed its deep concern about the
ongoing developments ------ in the 
Caribbean region.
 
 
_________________________________________
 
 
 
Automotive sales in South
 Africa --- rise 1.9 percent
October 16th, 12:33pm
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
South Africa's automotive sales grew 1.9 percent year-on-year 
during August 2025, according to constant price inflation -
adjusted data from 2019, the national statistics agency, 
Stats SA, revealed today.
 
According to the report, the main boost came from the sale of 
new vehicles, which increased 9.4 percent and contributed 
2.4 percentage points to the overall result. Sales of 
accessories also contributed, with an increase of
 4.8 percent and an incidence of 0.9%.
 
In contrast, fuel marketing registered a drop of 4.2 percent,
 which subtracted 1.1 percentage points from the total 
performance of the sector.
 
Compared with July 2025, seasonally adjusted 
automotive sales rose 0.5 percent.
 
That result, adds Stats SA, adds to previous monthly increases 
of 0.9 percent in July and 0.4 percent in June, reflecting a 
moderate growth trend.
 
Additionally, during the quarter ended August 2025, the sector's 
sales increased 2.8 percent compared to the same period of
 the previous year.
 
In that period, new vehicles led growth with an increase
 of 10.2 percent, contributing 2.6 percentage points.
 
They were followed by accessories, with an increase of 6.4% 
and a contribution of 1.3 points, and used vehicles, which 
grew 2.5 percent and added 0.5 percentage points.
 
On the other hand.... when comparing the quarter ended in August 
with the previous three months, a seasonally adjusted growth of 
1.5 percent was observed. In that case, used vehicles led the 
rebound ---- with an increase of 3.3 percent, followed by new 
vehicles with 2.2 percent and accessories with 1.0 percent.
 
 
[Rhondda Records adds: lies -
damn lies - statistics - and
adjusted statistics!]
 
 
_____________________________________________
 
 
 
South African wholesale trade 
reports growth in August
October 16th, 11:34am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
South Africa's wholesale trade sector recorded year-on-year 
growth of 1.7 percent in August this year, measured at 
constant prices, as reported today by the national 
statistics office, Stats SA.
 
Official data, seasonally adjusted and based on 2019 prices, 
confirm a positive trend in wholesale sales volume.
 
Stats SA's monthly analysis reveals a one percent increase 
during August compared to July, thus marking three 
consecutive months of bullish behaviour, after 
the increases of 0.3 percent and 0.7 percent 
registered in July and June respectively.
 
The quarterly report also reflects 0.6 percent growth in 
seasonally adjusted sales.... during the three months 
ended August 2025, compared to the immediately 
preceding period.
 
When examining the results, at current prices, the 
sector's performance shows greater dynamism.
 
According to the Stats SA report, sales in nominal terms 
registered a year-on-year increase of 2.8 percent 
during the eighth month of the year.
 
That result was mainly driven by three specific categories: food, 
beverage and tobacco wholesalers experienced growth of 11.4 
percent; distributors of other miscellaneous goods recorded an 
increase of 17.6%; and operators working on commission or 
contract showed the most significant progress, with 36.5%. 
 
In contrast to these positive results, the solid, liquid and gaseous 
fuels category presented a negative performance, with a 
contraction of 4.6 percent that placed it as the main
 drag factor for the global indicator.
 
The quarterly outlook at current prices maintains this trend.
 
In the three-month period ending in August, wholesale sales 
showed growth of 0.8 percent compared to the same 
period a year earlier.
 
The same sectors that drove monthly growth maintained their 
leadership in the quarterly analysis: food, beverage and 
tobacco distributors (6.0 percent), operators by 
commission or contract (26.5 percent) and 
traders of other goods (8.1 percent).
 
 
_________________________________________
 
 
 
The Sudanese president - coordinates 
positions with Egyptian counterpart
October 16th, 10:44am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The civil war in Sudan and the common position on the dam 
built by Ethiopia on the Nile River focused the agenda of 
the Sudanese and Egyptian leaders, according to 
reports circulated here today.
 
The meeting between the Egyptian president, Abdel Fattah 
el Sissi, and General Abdel Fattah a Burhan, president of 
the Sudanese Sovereign Transitional Council (CST), 
examined the impact of the Ethiopian reservoir 
and concluded that it led to the recent floods 
in their respective countries, according to 
summaries from official sources here.
 
The construction of the Great Renaissance Dam has all the signs 
of becoming a conflict between Cairo and Addis Ababa, because 
the first depends on the waters of the Nile for its economy and 
the consumption of a population that grows by the day.
 
Ethiopians assure that the reservoir will in 
no way ....harm Egyptian rights and needs.
 
Regarding the Sudanese conflict, although implicitly, Egypt 
supports the CST in the two and a half year war with the 
Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia, led by General 
Mohamed Handan Dagalo, who.. according to 
unofficial sources - receives weapons and 
drones from the UAE, whose authorities 
refute any involvement.
 
Months ago, the RSF announced the integration of a government 
that will govern the areas under its control, but its possibilities 
of influence were dissipated by the African Union, that urged 
to ignore that parallel cabinet.
 
The Sudanese civil war caused the largest refugee crisis in history, 
14 million displaced, in addition to 24 thousand deaths, a higher 
number of injuries and the devastation of this northeastern
 African country.
 
 
__________________________________________
 
 
 
Angola recognizes Cuba's role 
in 50 years of independence
October 16th, 9:22am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Angola recognized Cuba's support in various areas during the 50 
years of the country's independence, to be commemorated on 
November 11 and whose preparation for the celebration.....
 is underway today.
 
During the State of the Nation speech... Angola's President,
Joao Lourenco said that the cooperation received from
the Caribbean 
nation was essential to guarantee the
defense of sovereignty, 
as well as for the training
of professionals in all areas of 
knowledge
.....and medical care for the population.
 
Before the deputies to the National Assembly, at the opening 
ceremony of the 2025-2026 parliamentary year held the 
day before, the president highlighted the importance 
for the country of sending thousands of students 
to Cuban lands.
 
This action allowed the talent of hundreds of young people 
who now contribute to Angolan development..... to 
germinate, he noted.
 
In this sense, the work of the members of the Association of 
Former Angolan Students in Cuba, the Caimaneros, stands
 out, who in addition to their functions in different sectors 
of society, offer social projection actions such as health
 fairs in communities --- for free.
 
It should also be noted that when independence was proclaimed, 
Angola had only 19 doctors, an aspect that has been reversed -
with the support of the island and other countries, an example 
of which was the graduation on October 14 of 399 specialists 
in general and family medicine, with the mentorship of a 
hundred professionals from the Caribbean nation.
 
In the speech, Lourenço alluded to the military cooperation 
provided by Cuba and in particular, to the victory achieved 
in Cuito Cuanavale on March 23, 1988, “thanks to ------- the 
important contribution of Cuban internationalist fighters”.
 
This triumph, constituted a decisive turning point for the liberation 
of Southern Africa, leading to the signing of the New York 
Accords and the implementation of Resolution 435/78 
of the United Nations Security Council, which led to
 the independence of Namibia.
 
This contribution of Cubans has also been recognized with the 
presentation of commemorative medals for the 50 years of 
Angola's independence to three figures linked to 
military cooperation.
 
The first head of Cuba's military mission in this country,
Commander Raul Diaz-Arguelles, received distinction 
in the Peace and Development Class posthumously; 
army Corps General, Leopoldo Cintra Frías, was 
given the Independence Class personally; and 
posthumously they awarded the Peace and 
Development Class to Brigadier General 
Rafael Moracen Limonta.
 
In the province of Cuanza Sur, a hospital named Raul Diaz-
Arguelles, was also inaugurated, and, according to the 
president at its inauguration on October 21, 2024, it 
is a recognition of the thousands of Cubans who 
fought in Angolan lands -------- to preserve its
independence and sovereignty.
 
In the State of the Nation speech, the Angolan president ratified 
Angola's commitment to Cuba in the fight to lift the economic 
blockade imposed by the United States more than 60 years 
ago; a position that he also defended in his words at the 
most recent session of the UN General Assembly.
 
 
 
____________________________________________
 
 
 
DRC without new Ebola 
cases in two weeks
October 16th, 7:32am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Ministry of Health of the Democratic Republic of the Congo 
(DRC) reported that the Ebola outbreak in Kasai province 
maintains a favourable trend - without any registration 
of new cases ---- in the last 17 days.
 
According to the agency, since the declaration of the health 
emergency in September, 53 confirmed patients have been 
reported, with 43 deaths, as well as 11 probable cases.
 
However, prevention actions, among which the vaccination 
of more than 27,600 people stands out, have allowed for 
positive developments in the fight against the disease, 
despite some logistical challenges, the ministry said
 in a statement.
 
The DRC Government faces the Ebola outbreak.... with the 
collaboration of several institutions, including the World 
Health Organization (WHO), which contributed to 
implementing a treatment centre in Bulape, 
the epicentre of the epidemic, equipped
 with 32 beds.
 
The enclave includes a two-bed intensive infectious 
disease treatment unit, which provides vital care 
to critically ill patients.
 
This is the first time that the WHO has carried out this 
innovation, having previously only carried out 
simulations in Uganda and Ghana.
 
At the same time, we are working on dialogue with neighboring
 communities to provide advice on prevention, collect samples
 for analysis or improve surveillance and early diagnosis.
 
Another line of work has been the supply of drinking 
water to the community and health centres.
 
The DRC continues to confront Ebola while also fighting two 
other epidemics: that of Mpox, which in the last week 
registered 679 new cases, without deaths, and  
experiencing a significant decrease in the 
''positive'' rate.
 
The provinces of Sankuru and South Kivu continue to be the 
most affected, while specific vaccination campaigns are 
carried out.
 
The other health emergency is cholera, which in the last 
week reported 1,148 cases and 25 deaths, for a fatality
 rate of 2.1 percent.
 
South Kivu, Tanganyika and North Kivu present the most 
complicated situation and in this case an immunization 
campaign is also carried out.
 
 
_________________________________________


Mali announces death of 
insurgents -- in offensive
October 15th, 12:19pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Malian Army's containment maneuver against 
Islamist groups resulted in the death of around 
20 armed men, a military report claims today.
 
The clash occurred in the town of Dougabougou....... during 
an operation to contain the actions --- of two branches of 
Al Qaeda & Islamic State that restarted in recent weeks.
 
The communication from the military command also assures 
that the insurgents were seized with weapons and other 
means used in their actions against military bases and 
villages populated by unarmed civilians, whose 
houses they burned, in addition to looting
 their crops and livestock.
 
The report ends with the vow - that the armed 
forces -- “remain committed to the people to 
protect them and preserve their security”.
 
 
_____________________________________________
 
 
 
Foreign Minister of Venezuela --- 
at the NAM meeting in Uganda
October 15th, 12:07pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Foreign Minister of Venezuela, Yván Gil, on behalf of 
President Nicolás Maduro, participated today in Uganda 
in the 19th Intermediate Summit of Foreign Ministers 
of the Non-Aligned Movement.
 
Through his Telegram social network account, the senior 
diplomat stated that he had the opportunity to - “agree 
with important allies ---- those who expressed their 
deep solidarity in the face of the military threat 
in the Caribbean”.
 
He noted that the threat represents a serious risk
to international peace, security and stability.
 
Under the pretext of fighting drug trafficking... the United States 
government deployed a military contingent in Caribbean waters 
since August of 8 missile ships, a nuclear-powered submarine, 
fighter planes and about 10 thousand troops.
 
The Bolivarian Executive, denounced to the world, and the United 
Nations Security Council ----- the escalation of war that has as its 
fundamental purpose the theft of the vast natural wealth of the
country, including oil reserves --- considered to be the largest 
on the planet.
 
 
_____________________________________
 
 
 
They will award medals for Angolan 
independence to Savimbi 
and Roberto
October 15, 2025 | 11:34
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of Angola, Joao Lourenco, announced today - 
that medals for the 50 years of national independence will 
be awarded to the signatories of the Alvor Agreements: 
António Agostinho Neto, Holden Roberto and 
Jonas Savimbi.
 
When delivering the speech on the State of the Nation, in front of 
the deputies to the National Assembly, the president meant that
it is a recognition .....within the framework of the spirit of 
forgiveness, peace, reconciliation and national unity 
that the date demands.... to be celebrated next 
November 11.
 
The decision was received with a standing ovation, since the issue
 had been the subject of strong debates within Parliament, since 
Savimbi's name, as founder of the National Union for the Total 
Independence of Angola (Unita), and Roberto, of the National 
Liberation Front of Angola (FNLA), had been excluded.
 
Both historical figures, who played a key role, in signing the 
aforementioned agreements, were at the centre of conflict
after the civil war that broke out in 1975 --- and kept the 
country in conflict ------ until 2002.
 
“We do not doubt that this gesture, added to the work we have 
done to dignify the victims of political conflicts and provide 
comfort to their families, is an indelible contribution to 
national reconciliation”, said President Lourenco.
 
He recalled that the path to freedom that is now celebrated 
was not easy and cost the lives of many, brought mourning 
and pain to families and shed the blood of many Angolans.
 
The same thing happened later.. with the “27 long years of war 
between children of the same land, which decimated the lives 
of millions of Angolans, they physically and mentally 
mutilated several generations and postponed our 
dreams of the dawn of November 11, 1975”,
he noted.
 
He added that achieving peace was very difficult, it required 
magnanimity, serenity and the capacity for forgiveness; as 
well as patriotic commitment, to create a solid unity of 
Angolans, rebuild the country, build the nation and 
lay the foundations for development.
 
He stated that the commemorative medals for the half century 
of independence are a fair recognition of the sacrifices that 
millions of people make every day --- so that the country 
grows and becomes one land of prosperity.
 
Also to those who, throughout these 50 years, both national and 
foreign citizens, gave their contribution to bequeath a free land
 to new generations.
 
“This - is a good way to contribute to strengthening the nation and 
inspiring our collective path”, the president said -- noting that the 
date is much more than a number, “it is synonymous with peace, 
forgiveness and the willingness to fight together ----- to achieve 
our dreams”.
 
Excited to tears, the president affirmed that united Angola will 
win, and added: that this is “a nation that learns from its 
mistakes, overcomes its challenges and celebrates 
its achievements”, a country that everyone has 
built together --------- for 50 years.
 
 
___________________________________________________________
 
 
 
Everything ready in South Africa 
for national school exams
October 15th, 10:35am
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The South African Council for Educational Quality, Umalusi, 
today declared the national evaluation system ready for 
the 2025 final exams, that will mobilize more than a 
million students throughout the country.
 
According to Umalusi CEO, Mafu Rakometsi, although an audit 
identified areas for improvement, these do not compromise 
the credibility of the evidence. «The system is prepared 
for the conduct, administration and management of 
the exams», he stated.
 
The audit covers..... all evaluation entities, including the 
departments of Basic Education & Higher Education, 
the Independent Examination Institute and the 
South African Institute for Comprehensive 
Evaluation. More than 900 thousand 
students ---- will take the Higher 
National Certificate.
 
In total, according to the Ministry, 766,543 full-time and 137,018 
part-time candidates are registered for the tests, which will be 
carried out in more than 9,400 exam centres.... nationwide.
 
The qualification process will run from November 15 
to December 18, according to the ministry.
 
In this regard, Umalusi senior manager Mary-Antoinette Dliwayo 
explained that the audit verified the registration of candidates,
the safety of materials, & the preparation of the qualification 
centres. «All the questions have been moderated externally 
and there are adequate security measures», she assured.
 
Rakometsi also issued a strong warning -- against any 
irregularities in the exams, calling fraud - «a criminal
practice compromising the integrity of the system».
 
Likewise, he called on parents and communities to support 
students --- and protect educational centres from protests.
 
 
______________________________________


President Nandi-Ndaitwa --- Russia 
and Namibia.. have a long history
October 14th, 10:09pm
(RT.ru)
 
Russia and Namibia.. have a long history of cooperation, and
the two countries will continue to work together, President
 Nhamo Nandi-Ndaitwa said in an interview with RT.
 
"When we were fighting in the jungles of Angola, the Russians 
were with us through the USSR. When we needed to unite in 
order to stand up to.. what was then the strongest army on 
the African continent - the apartheid South African Armed 
Forces, the Russians came to our aid. And even after our 
independence, this has continued," the politician was 
quoted by RT Telegram channel.
 
Last year, Namibia also announced ---- strong
political and economic relations with Russia.
 
 
______________________________________________


South African president - reaffirms 
ministers' subjection to the law
October 14th, 11:21am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, told Parliament today 
that no member of his Cabinet is above the law and that any 
credible allegations of corruption must be investigated.
 
During a question and answer session at the National Council 
of Provinces, the president emphasized that --- if a Minister is 
charged with corruption or another serious crime, he must 
leave his position while the judicial process lasts.
 
«The fight against corruption must be based 
on the rule of law», he emphasized.
 
Ramaphosa also highlighted his government's efforts since 2018 
to rebuild law enforcement agencies ---- and strengthen the 
independence of the judiciary. He mentioned significant 
progress in investigations by the Special Investigation 
Unit (SIU), the Falcons... and the Anti-Corruption 
Investigation Directorate.
 
«These organizations have shown --- that they are not afraid to act. 
At this time, senior officials from the government, state companies 
and the private sector face trials for alleged corruption», the head
 of state stressed.
 
Regarding the accusations about his alleged link with Hangwani 
Maumela, involved in a corruption case at Tembisa Hospital, 
Ramaphosa described them as unfounded. He clarified 
that his only connection was a marriage, dissolved 
43 years ago, with an aunt of Maumela's, whom 
he did not meet personally until 2024.
 
The president expressed his confidence in the work of the SIU, 
which is already investigating the case, and urged allowing 
the institutions --- to do their work without interference.
 
He further stressed that the introduction of a monitoring 
mechanism ensures that IUS referrals are effectively
 implemented.
 
«To overcome the scourge of corruption, we must ensure that 
due process is followed without fear, favoritism or prejudice», 
concluded the South African president.
 
 
_________________________________________
 
 
 
South African vice president 
will travel to Türkiye - for 
bilateral commission
October 14th, 11:14am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
South African Vice President Paul Mashatile, a visit to Türkiye 
will begin tomorrow the 15th to co-chair the first session of 
the Binational Commission with the aim of strengthening 
cooperation between the two nations.
 
According to an official statement released today, in this capital, 
the high-level meeting, held in Ankara, allows materialization of 
an agreement signed in 2012 to establish this dialogue 
mechanism at the level of vice presidents.
 
Mashatile and his Turkish counterpart 
------ will lead the discussions.
 
The large delegation accompanying Mashatile - includes 
the Ministers of International Relations, Ronald Lamola;
 Defense, Angie Motshekga; Commerce and Industry, 
Parks Tau; Science and Technology, Bonginkosi 
Nzimande; and Tourism, Patricia De Lille.
 
He is also accompanied by the Vice Ministers of Sports,
 Peace Mabe; Higher Education, Nomusa Dube-Ncube; 
and Agriculture, Zoleka Capa.
 
This broad government representation, according to local 
analysts, reflects the strategic importance that South 
Africa attaches to this bilateral partnership.
 
According to the text, the commission's agenda is focused 
on --- promoting and coordinating political, economic and 
social collaboration. The signing of several cooperation 
agreements - in sectors such as justice, security and 
the economy is planned, as well as a review of the
 existing instruments.
 
In addition to the work sessions, the South African vice 
president's agenda includes a courtesy visit to Turkish 
President Recep Erdogan.
 
Likewise, Mashatile will participate in Istanbul 
in the fifth Türkiye Business Forum – Africa.
 
The vice president will also speak at the South Africa-Türkiye 
Business Council, with the aim of attracting investment and 
strengthening commercial ties. The economic forum is 
scheduled to close on October 17.
 
 
__________________________________________
 
 

Angola graduates 399 general 
& family medicine specialists
October 14th, 10:37am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Ministry of Health of Angola (Minsa) today held the 
graduation ceremony --- for 399 general and family 
medicine specialists, from 17 provinces of the 
country, aimed at strengthening the primary 
care system.
 
The minister of the sector, Silvia Lutucuta, classified the 
event as a victory, since these professionals are called 
to play a strategic role in the national health system, 
with work focused on prevention and continuity of 
care, which allows early diagnosis and support 
to communities.
 
“These are lives -- that will be saved, families - that will have 
access to decent care”, the owner stressed, who thanked
everyone who made it possible for such a large number 
of these specialists to graduate in the country ---- for 
the first time.
 
Based on the Minsa Emerging Training Program, in coordination 
with various institutions and among them the Family Medicine 
Coordination of the Cuban Medical Cooperation, the training 
process began in February 2021 and concluded in 
September of this year with the evaluation of 
professional courts. 
 
Some 110 Cuban tutors participated in the program, that was 
developed in 20 health centres, a maternal and child centre, 
80 municipal hospitals and six regional hospitals..... with 
rotations in general or provincial hospitals.
 
At the end of the third year of studies, 134 interns completed 
a three-month internship in Cuba, 110 in Brazil and 117 in 
Portugal, with the aim of consolidating practical and 
comprehensive training.... learning about the 
experiences of three reference contexts 
& acquiring clinical, communicative 
and behavioural skills.
 
The representative of the World Bank in Angola, Humberto Albino, 
expressed satisfaction with the way the process went, with 
rigorous training and fully achieved objectives.
 
The institution -- which provided financing for this project, 
recognized the work done to reach this moment, and he 
noted ---- that the technical competence and human 
commitment of the graduates ----- will make a 
difference for the Angolan people.
 
Minister Lutucuta commented that the intention is to form true 
health teams for communities, so that they not only continue 
working on the preparation of general and family medicine 
specialists, but that more than 700 nurses with powers
 for these functions.... favour the population.
 
On behalf of the graduates, Dr Kama Sandra Matondo said 
the training process was a transformative experience, 
during which they were challenged to be creative,
 resilient and proactive.
 
We work in contexts of significant limitations, where 
commitment is essential; We relearned the meaning 
of the word care, not only to treat diseases, but to
prevent, cure and restore hope, he added.
 
The result, he valued, are professionals committed to the life 
and well-being of the Angolan people -- who will now face a 
challenging stage, working together with other specialists 
and creating strong teams for quality primary care.
 
 
_____________________________________________
 
 
 
Senegal - thwarts journey of
undocumented immigrants
October 14th, 9:56am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The dream of 123 undocumented migrants.. of reaching 
Spanish territory faded TODAY after being intercepted 
in Senegalese territorial waters by Senegal's Navy.
 
Although the sources of the Senegalese naval corps 
remain silent ...about the port of departure and the 
nationality of the frustrated travelers, presumably
they are subjects of sub-Saharan countries that 
were trying to reach the Canary Islands.
 
Despite the dangers involved in crossing the waters of the 
Atlantic Ocean, especially in these months of cyclone 
formation --- thousands of people risk everything, 
including their lives, to flee conflicts, poverty 
------- and the lack of opportunities left by 
colonialism in their countries of origin.
 
In accordance with statistics from the International Organization 
for Migration, since the beginning of this decade, 5,610 people 
found their grave in the Atlantic when they were pursuing the 
chimera.... of reaching European shores.
 
 
___________________________________________
 
 
 
UK will support infrastructure 
development in South Africa
[speaking of chimeras!)
October 14th, 9:54am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
South Africa and the UK signed a memorandum of 
understanding for infrastructure cooperation, 
which includes a UK contribution of almost 
half a million dollars in expertise and 
capacity development.
 
According to a ministerial statement released here -- the 
South African Minister of Public Works & Infrastructure, 
Dean Macpherson... and his UK counterpart for Trade, 
Chris Bryant, signed the document in London, giving 
continuity to preliminary agreements established 
this year.
 
The collaboration will focus on three specific areas. The 
first is the “Capstone Project”, intended to support the 
launch of a Strategic Delivery Unit to streamline high
-impact projects within the S. African department.
 
The second, the “Speed Project”, will seek to optimize the 
management of public assets to improve efficiency in the 
use of resources. The 3rd line of action will strengthen 
a municipal program... that seeks to improve the 
execution of works at the local level, in 
selected municipalities.
 
On the occasion, Macpherson stated that this alliance shows 
how international collaboration can enhance infrastructural 
development and the state's capacity to execute projects.
 “This memorandum ------ marks an important step in our 
efforts to turn South Africa into a major construction 
site”, the incumbent stated.
 
The Minister emphasized, that the agreement consolidates 
the reforms within his portfolio, ensuring that the projects 
contribute to job creation & local economic development. 
 
“Our goal is to transform abandoned buildings
 into assets for communities”, he added.
 
The initiative, according to Macpherson, will lay the foundation 
for better project preparation, improved implementation and 
training of South African public sector teams, in line with 
the vision of using public goods for the common good.
 
 
_______________________________________________


The Russian Foreign Ministry welcomed 
the successful election - in Seychelles
October 13th, 5:06pm
(Izvestia.ru)

The Russian side - welcomes the successful holding of 
elections in Seychelles and is ready for cooperation. 
This was reported on October 13 on the website 
of the Russian Foreign Ministry.
 
"In Moscow, they were pleased to hear about the
successful elections in the Republic of
Seychelles,"
the statement said.
 
They added - that Russia is ready to strengthen 
traditionally friendly Russian-Seychellois ties 
in the economic, political, humanitarian, 
and other spheres.
 
According to the results of the 2nd round of the presidential 
election, Patrick Ermini, a candidate from the United 
Seychelles Party, was elected as the new 
head of state.
 
On September 4, Aeroflot announced that it would launch regular 
flights to the Seychelles from September 27 and to Sri Lanka 
from October 4. Flights to Mahe Airport in the Seychelles 
will be operated twice a week, on Wednesdays 
and Saturdays.
 
 
__________________________________________________
 
 
The Russian Embassy reported -- a tense
 situation in Madagascar due to protests
October 13th, 4:34pm
(Izvestia.ru)
 
The situation in Madagascar remains tense due to the 
anti-government protests that have been ongoing on 
the island since September 25. This was reported 
to Izvestia by the Russian Embassy in the 
country on October 13.
 
"Although there were no demonstrations today.. that 
were dispersed by law enforcement agencies, the 
confrontation continues at the political level,"
 the Russian diplomatic mission said.
 
They also clarified that there have been no recent 
requests for assistance, from Russian citizens.
 
On October 11th, it was reported - that the President of
Madagascar, Andry Rajoelina, could leave the capital,
Antananarivo... after the 
army refused to resist
demonstrations involving young people 
and students.

RT. ru adds today --- that it was reported that the 
President ....amid mass riots, left the country
on a 
French military plane.
 
 
_________________________________________



Chief of the General Staff 
of the Congo visits Cuba
October 13th, 1:27pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Army Corps General Roberto Legrá, first vice minister of 
the Revolutionary Armed Forces (FAR), today officially 
received Major General Guy Blanchard Okoi, Chief 
of the General Staff of the Congo Armed Forces.
 
At the mausoleum of El Cacahual.... the head of the General Staff of 
the FAR also offered the visiting delegation a detailed explanation 
about the history, symbolism and architecture of the mausoleum, 
highlighting its value as a sacred space....... dedicated to the 
memory of those who gave their lives for the Homeland.
 
The Congolese general laid a wreath in tribute to the heroes of 
Cuban independence, in a gesture of respect and admiration 
from his Government towards the history of struggle of the 
Cuban people.
 
As part of its stay in Cuba, the Congolese delegation plans to visit 
sites of historical and cultural interest, as well as FAR units and 
entities, with the purpose of strengthening ties of cooperation 
and friendship between both nations, Radio Rebelde reports.
 
El Cacahual treasures the remains of Lieutenant General Antonio 
Maceo and his assistant Captain Francisco Gómez Toro, as 
well as those of other Cuban patriots.
 
 
 
_____________________________________
 
 
 
Riots in Madagascar; 
president denounces 
October 13th, 1:01pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Calm reigns today in this capital after the massive protests 
the day before, which had the distinctive feature of the 
participation of the military.
 
For his part, the Malagasy President, Andry Rajoelina, 
denounced the existence of an ongoing coup d'état, 
although so far.... there is no civilian or military 
statement about it.
 
Street protests denounce the lack of public services
 in this African island country in the Indian Ocean.
 
Strictly speaking, the protest movement, called through the 
internet -- by a platform called Generation Z Madagascar, 
began last September and... after an unexpected pause 
they began again this Sunday, with no acts of violence 
-- unlike the previous ones -- when unofficial sources 
reported around twenty deaths ---- in clashes with
 law enforcement forces.
 
 
 
____________________________________


 

The DRC supports the FDLR's call
------- to lay down their arms
October 13th, 12:29pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Various voices today support the call of the Army of 
the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to the 
Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda 
(FDLR) to dispose of their weapons.
 
The United Nations Stabilization Mission in the DRC (Monusco) 
welcomed the call made on October 10, through which, they 
urged the FDLR to surrender to the Congolese authorities 
or to the UN force itself.
 
“We have taken note of the statement and will continue to 
coordinate with the Congolese authorities to better 
understand their expectations and identify 
concrete modalities.... through which 
Monusco can respond ----- in close 
consultation with all interested 
parties” --- Mission sources
told 
Actualité.CD.
 
They added that this approach is fully in line with the mandate 
of the blue helmets, particularly with regard to disarmament, 
demobilization, repatriation, and reintegration.
 
They noted that, despite the tense security situation, marked by 
movement restrictions in areas under the control of the Congo 
River Alliance-March 23 Movement rebellion (AFC/M23), they 
are willing to support the voluntary repatriation of members 
of foreign armed groups.
 
The US president's advisor for Africa, Massad Boulos, also
supported the call of the Congolese Army and considered
it to be a decisive step in the implementation of the 
Washington Peace Agreement between the
DRC 
and Rwanda.
 
The Deputy Prime Minister and Head of Foreign Affairs of Belgium, 
Maxime Prévot, also expressed satisfaction with the call to all 
factions of the FDLR to lay down their arms.
 
“The prohibition of any collaboration between the DRC Armed 
Forces and the FDLR, and the imposition of severe sanctions
 in case of violations of such collaboration are also crucial”, 
the diplomat said.
 
He added that it is essential that these unequivocal decisions
 are translated into concrete actions on the ground and that 
all parties contribute fully to the objectives of the 
Washington Peace Agreement.
 
The Army urged the FDLR to surrender to the Congolese 
authorities or Monusco with a view to their repatriation 
to Rwanda ------- in addition to warning against any 
resistance ..and reiterating that “disarmament 
through coercion or the use of force” could 
be implemented.
 
The Congolese military authorities, who did not specify the terms or
deadline for possible disarmament, also prohibited their troops 
from collaborating with the FDLR ----- under the penalty of
severe sanctions - and they encouraged the population
to disassociate 
themselves from the Rwandan rebels.
 
 
___________________________________________
 
 
 
Historical links between 
Cuba and Ethiopia 
stand out
October 13th, 11:16am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
For Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez and his 
Ethiopian counterpart, Gedion Timothewos 
Hessebon, the historical ties that unite 
both nations stood out here today.
 
During a meeting held in the context of the official visit 
made by the chancellor of the Antillean nation to this 
African country, the interlocutors highlighted the 
existing ties of friendship and solidarity.
 
I conveyed Cuba's interest in deepening bilateral relations, 
---- in terms of expanding economic-commercial and 
cooperation ties, the highest representative of
 Cuban diplomacy reported --- on his profile 
on the social network X.
 
Upon his arrival the day before at the Bole international airport, 
Rodríguez was received by the head of the State of Water and 
Energy, Asfaw Dingamo and by the Deputy Director General 
for Europe and America of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 
Mulie Tarekegn.
 
During his stay in Ethiopia, the Cuban Foreign Minister will hold 
meetings with high authorities of the government and the 
African Union Commission, within the framework of 
strengthening the historic ties of bilateral 
friendship and cooperation.
 
Also participating in the meeting of the foreign ministers on 
the Cuban side were the Cuban ambassador to Ethiopia, 
Meylin Suarez, and the Cuban ambassador to the 
African Union, Lucas Domingo Hernández.
 
 
 
____________________________
 
 
 
 
''Surprise'' floods cause damage
-------- in northwest Morocco
October 13th, 10:27am
(Latin Press) 
 
Still recovering from a ten-year drought, areas of northwest 
Morocco woke up today --- flooded by colossal downpours 
that caused flooding and the interruption of life --- due 
to their magnitude.
 
The report from the national meteorological entity estimated
 the amount of water that fell in the coastal province of 
Nador in just 24 hours ---- at 66 millimetres.
 
The town presents a «Venetian» landscape due to the 
flooding of streets, homes and submerged vehicles, 
according to testimonies from sources in the 
disaster area.
 
The same informants added that in the area there are 
3 wadis (dry river beds) -- that surpassed their banks.
 
In the last 10 years, Morocco -- like its neighbour Algeria --
has suffered from a lack of rainfall that forced emergency
economic measures, including the import of products, 
among them, rams --- during the celebration of the
fast 
festival in the Muslim month of Ramadan.
 
The natural disaster adds to a tense social situation due 
to the eruption of street protests, in which protesters 
criticize what they describe as official corruption 
and denounce the abandonment of the public 
health and education sectors.
 
Likewise, they condemn the waste of public funds in 
organizational events ---- such as the 2030 Football
 World Cup.
 
 
________________________________
 
 
 
President Rajoelina Leaves 
Madagascar ...on a French 
Military Plane
October 13th, 10:16am
(teleSUR)
 
His departure follows unrest and an 
Army unit’s claim of control over 
the armed forces.
 
On Monday, French outlet RFI reported that Madagascar’s 
President Andry Rajoelina left the country on Sunday 
aboard a French military aircraft.
 
“His destination has not yet been disclosed, amid growing 
speculation about his whereabouts following unrest in
 the capital,” online outlet Africalix said.
 
Earlier, the Office of the Presidency had announced that 
Rajoelina would ''address the nation'' in a speech 
scheduled for 7 p.m. local time on Monday.
 
On Sunday, an insurrectionary military unit, the Army Personnel 
and Services Administration Corps (CAPSAT), claimed to have 
taken control of the Armed Forces after urging soldiers on 
Saturday to “disobey” any orders to open fire on 
the population.
 
CAPSAT previously took part in the 2009 coup that overthrew 
then-President Marc Ravalomanana and brought Rajoelina
 to power for the first time. The president has not 
appeared in public since CAPSAT expressed 
support for the protests on Saturday.
 
Although the demonstrations initially began -- over recurring water 
and power outages, the movement —— driven by Generation
Z youth  —
  became anti-government and demanded
Rajoelina’s resignation. The organizers -- rejected
the president’s proposal for a national dialogue.
 
 
__________________________________


 Cuba and Benin reiterate their 
willingness to consolidate 
bilateral ties
October 11th, 11:36am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The governments of Cuba and Benin reaffirmed their willingness 
to strengthen ties of friendship and bilateral cooperation, the 
island's Ministry of Foreign Affairs assures today.
 
The reaffirmation of the government's will was expressed during a
 meeting in Cotonou between the Cuban Foreign Minister, Bruno 
Rodríguez, and the Beninese Minister of Foreign Affairs and 
Cooperation, Olushegun Adjadi Bakari.
 
Rodríguez began an official visit to Benin, a West African 
nation, invited precisely by his counterpart.
 
According to the ministerial notification, «the parties ratified 
the positive and cordial nature of bilateral relations, based 
on friendship, solidarity and cooperation».
 
Both ministers, he adds, discussed issues of common interest 
«such as strengthening cultural ties, expanding cooperation 
--- and coordination in regional and international forums».
 
The head of Cuban diplomacy «conveyed the gratitude of the
 Cuban people and Government for the permanent support of 
the Republic of Benin to the fight against the economic 
blockade, commercial and financial tax on Cuba», 
he adds.
 
Also, it highlights, the support in the demand for the exclusion 
of Cuba from the list of State sponsors of terrorism, prepared 
unilaterally and illegally by the United States Government.
 
«The visit is a sign of Cuba's commitment to the development of 
relations with the Republic of Benin and to the strengthening of 
South-South cooperation, based on solidarity, reciprocity and 
mutual benefit», says the Cuban Foreign Ministry.
 
 
___________________________________
 
 
 
60 Killed in El-Fasher Massacre: 
RSF Drones, Artillery Devastate 
Civilian Refuge in Darfur
October 11th, 9:37am
(teleSUR)
 
RSF militias kill 60 civilians in El-Fasher, using drones 
and artillery, intensifying the siege and humanitarian 
crisis in Darfur ----- amid global inaction.
 
At least 60 civilians—including children, women, and the elderly
—were massacred in a displaced persons centre in El-Fasher, 
the capital of North Darfur, in what human rights groups 
describe as another chapter in the silent genocide 
unfolding in Sudan’s Darfur region.
 
According to the El-Fasher Resistance Committee, the Rapid
Support Forces (RSF) - Sudan’s foreign-backed paramilitaries
deliberately targeted the Dar al-Arqam displacement camp, 
where families had sought shelter from the war. “Children,
 women, and the elderly were killed in cold blood, and 
many were completely burned,” the committee 
reported, calling for ------ urgent international 
intervention against what it labeled ------ “a 
situation beyond disaster and genocide.”
 
El-Fasher remains the last major city in Darfur under Sudanese 
Army control --- making it a strategic target for the RSF. Since
the civil war erupted in April 2023 — triggered by a dispute 
between rival generals — the country has plunged into 
what humanitarian agencies call the world’s largest
 humanitarian emergency.
 
Today’s attack is part of a systematic RSF campaign to force the 
city’s surrender through terror. “Generally, the RSF has relied on 
aerial attacks to push civilians out of the city so they can 
capture it,” explained Mohamed Badawi of the African 
Centre for Justice and Peace Studies.
 
The humanitarian situation in El-Fasher is catastrophic. A UNDP 
report confirmed the total collapse of local markets, scarcity of 
affordable food, and road blockades preventing humanitarian 
aid, forcing the residents...... to survive on animal feed and 
discarded food scraps.
 
Research from Yale’s Humanitarian Research Lab, documents 
a methodical destruction campaign surrounding the city, with 
villages & displacement camps burned within a 57-kilometre
radius, providing evidence of ethnic cleansing, targeting non
-Arab communities. Investigators also identified an earthen 
barricade encircling El-Fasher ----------- strangling civilian 
movement and humanitarian access.
 
A World Looking Away
 
Despite a growing mountain of evidence and increasingly dire 
reports, the international community continues to exhibit a 
concerning and largely inexplicable silence regarding the 
escalating crisis. The International Committee of the 
Red Cross (ICRC) ------- a respected and impartial 
humanitarian organization, has meticulously 
documented and reported widespread, 
routine attacks on, and systematic 
looting of, vital health centres, 
severely impeding access to 
medical care for countless
numbers of individuals. 
 
Compounding this alarming situation, the World Health 
Organization (WHO) has highlighted the catastrophic 
collapse of the healthcare infrastructure in the 
Sudanese capital, Khartoum, noting that an 
astonishing 70% to 80% of all medical 
facilities ----- have been forced to 
cease operations.
 
“The scale of humanitarian needs in Sudan ------- is staggering. 
Unfortunately, cuts to international aid are adding salt to the 
wound,” warned Samuel Sileshi, emergency coordinator for 
Médecins Sans Frontières.
 
With tens of thousands killed and millions displaced, Sudanese 
civilians face only global indifference in what experts call one 
of the greatest human tragedies of our time.
 
Geopolitical Context
 
The El-Fasher massacre underscores the geopolitical complexity 
of Sudan’s conflict, where proxy interests fuel violence and 
deepen humanitarian collapse. The RSF’s advances not 
only challenge Sudan’s military control, but also 
destabilize the broader Sahel region, with 
potential repercussions for migration
 flows, border security, and 
regional alliances.
 
In this context, humanitarian actors stress that sustained 
pressure on foreign backers of the RSF and increased 
support for neutral aid channels.... are essential to 
prevent Darfur’s complete fall into the abyss.
 
 
_______________________________________
 
 

South African vice president ------- will 
visit Türkiye for bilateral commission
October 11th, 7:10am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
South African Vice President Paul Mashatile will make a 
working visit to Türkiye on the 15th to co-chair the first 
Binational Commission between both nations.
 
During his stay until October 17, according to a statement 
from the Presidency, Mashatile will hold meetings with 
his Turkish counterpart, Cevdet Yalmaz, within the 
framework of the mechanism established 
through an agreement signed in 2012.
 
The Binational Commission will function as a structured 
platform to strengthen and coordinate political, 
economic and social cooperation - between 
Pretoria and Ankara, according to official
 sources, according to the text.
 
The high-level dialogue will allow both parties to finalize 
pending agreements, reevaluate existing ones ----- and 
identify new areas of collaboration in sectors such 
as justice, security and social development.
 
Mashatile is expected to sign several cooperation instruments 
during his visit, which also includes a stop in Istanbul to 
participate in the V Türkiye-Africa Business Forum...
which will take place between October 16 and 17.
 
The South African delegation will be made up of the Ministers 
of International Relations, Ronald Lamola; Defense, Angie 
Motshekga; Commerce and Industry, Parks Tau; and 
Science and Technology, Blade Nzimande.
 
They will also be accompanied by the head of Tourism, Patricia 
de Lille, along with vice ministers of Sports, Higher Education 
and Agriculture, according to the official program released 
by the Presidency.
 
According to the statement -- South African participation in the 
business forum and bilateral meetings with key actors - seeks 
to boost trade relations with Türkiye, currently South Africa's 
main partner in Sub-Saharan Africa.
 
Mashatile will also speak at the South Africa-Türkiye Business 
Council and will maintain contacts with Turkish investors 
interested in the South African market, in addition to 
delivering the closing speech of the economic
 forum on 17 October.
 
 
________________________________


Angola continues renovation 
of port infrastructure
October 10th, 2:04pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of Angola, João Lourenço, today inaugurated 
infrastructure at the Port of Namibe, in the south of the 
country, which include the Sacomar Mineral Terminal 
and the Container Terminal.
 
The actions undertaken made it possible to provide the enclave 
with a greater cargo capacity, as it is expanded with a 288-
metre dock, capable of serving ships of up to 50,000 tons.
 
It is also designed for better operational efficiency, with 
cutting-edge technology to serve three thousand TEU 
containers through specialized areas for refrigerated 
cargo, safe storage and handling of bulk cargo.
 
The terminals were designed to meet the demands of 
international trade and boost exports and imports 
from the southern region of the country, which 
is on par with other projects planned in 
the territory.
 
In this regard, the head of state pointed out that the 
inaugurated facilities aim not only to receive 
minerals from the interior of the country, 
such as Huíla, Cubango and Cuando, 
but also from Namibe itself.
 
He announced that the renovation of the Namibe Bay dock 
is also in the pipeline, so... in a few years, the city of 
Mocamedes - will be completely modern, “with an
 infrastructure that will undoubtedly contribute 
to the economic development not only of the 
province, but also of the country”.
 
He also mentioned the projects linked to road and 
railway development ------ so that the Mocamedes 
railway is integrated with the port infrastructure.
 
He also announced - that the Executive plans to develop a 
national steel mill that will valorize the iron ore extracted 
from the Cassinga mines, in the province of Huíla, and 
from other places.
 
During his stay in Namibe, where he arrived the day before, 
from Brussels, Belgium, the president also inaugurated the 
provincial Cultural Centre, the result of the renovation of 
the old Studio Cinema ------ donated by the Japanese 
consortium Toyota Tsusho and TOA Corporation,
 in charge of building the port terminals.
 
Expanded and equipped with cutting-edge technology, the 
Mussungo Bitoto Cultural Centre now houses various 
artistic manifestations... that evoke the roots of 
Namibe and Angola, as well as the creative 
originality of humanity.
 
 
___________________________________



Senegal registers 17 deaths
from viral disease
October 10th, 12:32pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Senegalese Ministry of Health reported today that the 
death toll rose to 17, with 119 affected, in this country 
due to an outbreak of Rift Valley fever, an ailment 
transmitted by mosquitoes ....or animals 
contaminated with the virus.
 
Boli Diop, the director of disease supervision at the health entity, 
declared that there is concern in communities in the country, 
since the viral disease, which reappeared on September 21, 
could spread on a large scale in this West African territory.
 
In the 1980s, this disease... caused the death of more than 200 
people in Senegalese territory, according to medical statistics.
 
Officials from the World Health Organization indicated that to 
control the disease it is necessary to prevent outbreaks in 
animals through vaccination and not expose oneself to 
mosquito bites.
 
Among the damages that the so-called Rift Valley fever can 
cause in humans, in the most serious cases, are eye 
damage, brain inflammation or hemorrhagic fever, 
medical sources specify.
 
 
__________________________________________________
 
 
 
South Africa asks G20 ------ to 
prioritize those most in need
October 10, 2025 | 12:32
(Prensa Latina) 
 
South African Energy Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa 
today urged the G20 --- to turn its deliberations into a 
"beacon of hope" for the most vulnerable sectors.
 
When inaugurating the IV Ministerial Meeting on Energy 
Transitions in Ballito, northern Durban, the South 
African minister emphasized that the meeting 
must privilege people over profits ---- and 
particular economic interests.
 
«This moment should not be defined by powers of economic 
power or political will, but by our shared duty to the people 
we serve», Ramokgopa told representatives of the world's
 major economies.
 
In his speech, the Minister asked to bring to the fore -- the real 
experiences of those who struggle to survive in conditions of 
poverty, lacking access to electricity, clean water, sanitation 
and basic medical care.
 
«Billions of children grow up in poverty, without education, or 
opportunities, and without the simple right to dream without 
limits. This reality ---- must be the heart of our deliberations», 
he stressed, during his speech.
 
Ramokgopa also highlighted South Africa's leadership at the 
head of the G20 over the past year, an effort he described 
as an achievement, not only nationally, but for Africa --- 
and the entire Global South.
 
According to local analysts, the meeting in Durban represents 
both a conclusion and a beginning, according to the minister, 
who is confident that future presidencies --- will continue to 
drive the results achieved under South African leadership.
 
On the occasion, the head of Energy called on the participants 
to chart a different path --- that values people above capital, 
building a world where every person has the opportunity 
to not only survive, but thrive.
 
«Let us ensure that Durban is remembered as the moment where 
we reaffirm our commitment to affordable energy, fair energy 
transitions and a future where industrialization and 
sustainability go hand in hand», he concluded.
 
The IV Ministerial Meeting on Energy Transitions of the G20... 
meets with the participation of delegations from the twenty 
most developed economies and invited countries, within 
the framework of the pro tempore South African 
presidency of the forum.
 
 
______________________________________



UN denounces increase
 in violence in Sudan
October 10th, 11:55am
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The intensification of armed clashes between the Sudanese 
Army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) 
deteriorate the humanitarian situation and increase 
violence in this African country, the United Nations
denounced today.
 
In a statement released in this Sudanese capital, UN spokes-
person Stéphane Dujarric, warned that since the beginning 
of October, the death of more than 50 people has been 
reported in El Fasher region, capital of North Darfur.
 
According to the Sudan Doctors Network, in the last few hours 
an attack by the paramilitary group in the district caused the 
death of a dozen civilians, including children and women.
 
The recent attacks by the RSF in El Fasher -- against people 
gathered in mosques and the maternity ward of a hospital 
in that area, with dozens of deaths and injuries in both 
cases, the UN itself noted.
 
 
___________________________________
 
 
 
EU will invest more than 10 
billion USD, in South Africa
October 10th, 11:55am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, confirmed
#today an investment package from the EU for 11.5 billion
dollars for the 
country, aimed at promoting strategic
sectors... like renewable 
energy and
ecological transition.
 
During a press conference in Brussels with the president of the 
EU Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, the South African 
president described the agreement as the beginning of
 «a new era of cooperation» between both parties, as 
reflected here in a presidential statement issued for 
this purpose.
 
Resources will be directed towards the development of green 
hydrogen, renewable energy, critical minerals, vaccine 
production and electric batteries, in addition to 
modernizing infrastructure in rail transport, 
roads, ports and digital connectivity.
 
«These investments will help build the economy of the future in 
present-day South Africa», Ramaphosa highlighted, underlining
 the special focus on job training, small business development 
and scientific research.
 
According to official figures, the EU remains South Africa's 
main trading partner and source of direct foreign
investment, representing 41% of the total 
received by the African country.
 
More than 2,000 European companies currently operate in 
South Africa, generating more than half a million jobs.
 
The agreement, highlighted in the text, strengthens the objectives 
of the Clean Trade and Investment Partnership established during 
the bilateral summit in March 2024, seeking to promote 
technology transfer and sustainable industrial growth
 in African value chains.
 
Ramaphosa also expressed confidence that the collaboration will 
accelerate....... the just transition to a low-carbon economy and 
position Africa as «the next global clean production frontier».
 
Finally --- he thanked the European support for the South African 
presidency of the G20 and its agenda of solidarity, equality and 
sustainability, announcing that von der Leyen will participate 
in the G20 Leaders Summit in Johannesburg next November.
 
 
_________________________________________



 Tense pause in popular 
protests in Morocco
October 8th, 1:09pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The suspension of popular protests in this capital and other 
cities has organizational and regrouping purposes, the 
organizers clarified today.
 
Already in their second week, the marches criticize what they 
describe as administrative corruption, the waste of public
 funds in preparation for the 2030 Soccer World Cup 
and the abandonment of health and education.
 
The suspension of the protests expires this Thursday,
the eve of the speech that King Mohammed VI is 
due to give tomorrow, Friday, in parliament.
 
The statement clarifies that the pause also seeks 
“greater effectiveness ------- and planning”.
 
GEN Z 212, the website that called for the protests, urged 
NGOs and other social organizations in its statement to 
join the protest movement, which stars teenagers
and 
young people.
 
 
____________________________________________________
 
 
 
Angola --------- will host African
 development finance summit
October 8th, 12:26pm
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
Angola will host, from the 28th to the 31st of this month in 
Luanda, the third Summit on Financing for Infrastructure 
Development in Africa, which aims to mobilize up to 
160 billion dollars, they reported today.
 
The Minister of Public Works, Urban Planning and Housing, 
Carlos Alberto dos Santos, explained in a conference held 
at the Aníbal de Melo Press Centre, that the event is 
organized by the Government of Angola and the 
African Union Development Agency 
(AUDA-Nepad).
 
To date, more than two thousand delegates are expected 
to participate in the event, including heads of State and 
Government, representatives of financial institutions, 
and members of the private sector, specialists and 
other guests, with the vision of ------ mobilizing 
financial resources.
 
They also intend to share good practices and promote 
sustainable investment in critical infrastructure
 for the development of the continent.
 
He added that -- in the national context, it will allow us to 
celebrate what has been achieved in this matter - in the 
country's 50 years of independence. At the same time
 it will show efforts in the rehabilitation & expansion 
of infrastructure.... in line with the Sustainable 
Development Goals and Agenda 2063 of 
the African Union.
 
Dos Santos pointed out that there will be thematic sessions, 
bilateral meetings, business meetings, and presentations 
of projects linked to this sector ------ as well as an 
assessment of the two previous summits.
 
The president of the Board of Directors of the Private Investment 
and Export Promotion Agency (Aipex), Arlindo Rangel, noted 
that the country will present 16 structural projects related 
to transportation and logistics, renewable energy sources
 and information and communications technologies.
 
The Lobito Corridor, port infrastructure and electrical 
networks ----- stand out in the Angolan portfolio.
 
 
_________________________________________________
 
 
 
South Africa..... mediates the
South Sudan peace process
October 8th, 12:21pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
South African Vice President Paul Mashatile, arrived in Juba 
today for a two-day working visit as special envoy to South 
Sudan, with the aim of promoting the implementation of 
the revitalized 2018 Peace Agreement.
 
During his stay, according to the visit program released here, 
Mashatile will hold talks with President Salva Kiir Mayardit 
and other signatories of the agreement, with the purpose 
of evaluating progress in the peace process.... and 
promoting stability in the African nation.
 
«We returned to this large city of Juba, to consult with relevant 
parties, and track progress in implementing the provisions and 
commitments of the Agreement», the South African envoy 
stated upon arrival.
 
Among the central points of the discussions are the drafting of 
a new Constitution, transitional security arrangements and 
preparations for the elections scheduled for December 
2025, all crucial elements ------- for the country's 
political transition.
 
The South African delegation was received by the Minister of 
Foreign Affairs of South Sudan, Monday Semaya Kumba, 
along with other senior diplomatic officials from both 
countries, which reflects the importance that both 
nations give to this mediation process.
 
South Sudan, Africa's youngest nation, continues to implement 
the peace process under the auspices of the Revitalized 
Agreement, signed in September 2018 - that seeks to 
put an end to years of internal conflict --- that have 
seriously affected the population, the text recalls.
 
Mashatile's visit represents South Africa's continued commitment 
to the peaceful resolution of conflicts on the continent, playing a 
facilitating role in complex political processes.... that require a
consensus among multiple actors.
 
According to local political analysts, the diplomatic effort is part 
of South Africa's foreign policy tradition of promoting stability 
and development in Africa, prioritizing inclusive dialogue 
as a mechanism ......to achieve lasting solutions --- to 
political challenges.
 
The success of this peace process is considered vital not only for 
the stability of South Sudan, but also for regional security in 
East Africa, an area that has experienced various 
interconnected conflicts.
 
Mashatile and his delegation are expected to hold intensive 
meetings over the next 48 hours with all interested parties, 
seeking to build a consensus that will unblock - pending 
obstacles in the peace agreement's implementation. 
 
 
_______________________________________________________
 
 

''Islamist'' groups in Mali - block the 
entry of fuel ---- into the country
October 8th, 12:18pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Fuel shortages in Mali worsen by the day after several weeks 
of a blockade imposed by Islamist groups on transport from 
Senegal and the Ivory Coast, local media stress today.
 
While, long lines are spreading at gasoline stations in this capital 
and residents are beginning to feel the consequences of the 
attack on oil vehicle caravans by the so-called Support 
Group for Islam and Muslims (Jnim). 
 
For political analysts, the blockade poses enormous risks to 
the fragile local economy as Mali is ranked as the 6th least 
developed nation in the world, with almost half of its 
population ...below the poverty line.
 
For its part, the Mali Oil Importers Association said more than 
100 tankers had been burned & destroyed by Khnim fighters.
 
Meanwhile, to try to reverse the situation, the Malian army 
began escorting some truck convoys on the roads 
between Bamako and the borders with Senegal 
and Ivory Coast.
 
Islamist factions such as (Jnim), an affiliate of Al Qaeda in
 the Sahel, claimed responsibility for the latest attacks 
against the convoys.
 
Mali also faces the coalition of Tuareg groups, known as Berbers, 
determined to achieve the separation of the northern region 
from the rest of the country & create an independent state.
 
Nation of the Sahel, Mali lives mired in a deep political crisis, 
which has increased after successive coups d'état that 
occurred in August 2020 and May 2021, and it is also 
affected by continuous attacks... by armed groups.
 
 
______________________________________________________
 

 
Burkina Faso arrests 
eight alleged spies.. 
for European NGOs
October 8th, 10:56am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Burkina Faso's government today - reported the arrest 
of eight people who work for an alleged humanitarian 
organization, based in the Netherlands -- under the 
charge of espionage in favour of foreign powers.
 
Burkinabe Security Minister Mahamadou Sana indicated 
that these individuals, who work for the International 
Security Organization based in the European state, 
were ''dedicated'' ..... to providing confidential 
security information.
 
According to the source, the entity collected and recorded 
confidential information about the Army of this country, 
which included, among other data, areas of operation, 
routes followed & number of operational personnel.
 
In addition to revealing the positions of military personnel, the 
denounced NGO surreptitiously and illegally dedicated itself 
to the systematic collection of “all types of information 
related to political activities, administrative and 
security of the country”, summarized the 
head of Security.
 
Directors of the questioned NGO rejected the arrests, for their 
part, and alleged that this entity has operated in this West 
African territory since 2019 to support other NGOs based 
here with information.
 
The authorities of Burkina Faso.... where a military junta has 
governed since 2022, reiterated on several occasions, their 
commitment to defending national sovereignty in a context 
marked by an uptick in insecurity fueled by the activity of 
extremist groups, such as the Islamic State.
 
 
______________________________________________
 

 
South Africa consolidates 
African priorities in 
G20 presidency
October 8th, 10:51am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The South African Presidency of the G20 consolidates itself as
 an African platform, that prioritizes continental development 
and the reform of the global financial architecture, the Vice 
Minister of International Relations, Alvin Botes, stated.
 
Speaking at a public dialogue of the Southern African Liaison 
Office (SALO), Botes stressed that the upcoming G20 summit
 in Johannesburg, next November ------- will mark an historic 
milestone, as it is the first to be celebrated on African soil.
 
«This - is not a G20 that simply takes place in Africa, it is an 
African G20 at its core, which defends the aspirations of 
emerging economies», the diplomat stated during his 
speech at the event organized by SALO.
 
In his speech, Botes also stressed that South African 
management, under the motto «Solidarity, Equality, 
Sustainability», is guided by the legacy of historic 
leader Oliver Reginald Tambo, and the principles 
of the Bandung Conference: focused on justice 
and equity, on the multilateral stage.
 
Among the concrete achievements...... the vice chancellor 
highlighted the creation of the Extraordinary Committee 
of Experts on Global Inequality, chaired by Nobel Prize 
winner Joseph Stiglitz, and the G20 Cooperation 
Agenda with Africa (ACA), which functions as 
a roadmap for investments in productive
 sectors on the continent.
 
The senior official also pointed out progress in the recanalization 
of Special Drawing Rights, towards African development banks,
and in the reform of Multilateral Development Banks ------
all 
historical demands of the region.
 
The South African presidency has organized G20 meetings in 
countries such as Egypt, Nigeria and Ethiopia, expanding 
continental participation. In addition -- it has placed 
crucial issues such as fair energy transition, food 
security and artificial intelligence governance 
- on the agenda. 
 
Botes also emphasized how Africa is no longer a peripheral actor 
in the global economy, but rather affirms its legitimate place in 
international economic governance, with the African Union
--- as a full member of the G20.
 
The diplomat concluded by reaffirming the commitment that the
 legacy of South Africa's pro tempore presidency constitutes: a 
tangible economic transformation for Africa, ensuring that the 
continent's resources drive both its growth ------ and 
sustainable development.
 
The Johannesburg summit, scheduled for November 22-23, is 
expected to be a defining moment to demonstrate that the 
leadership of the Global South can deliver substance, 
stability and solidarity, on the international stage.
 
 
______________________________________________________
 
 
 
South Africa: denies funding 
return of detained activists
October 8th, 10:23am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Government of South Africa today denied financing the return 
of local activists of the Sumud Global Flotilla, detained in Israel, 
and specified that its management was strictly diplomatic -
to facilitate their repatriation.
 
In a statement, the Foreign Ministry categorically denied the 
allegations about state financing, explaining that the return
 of the citizens was paid for by their families and 
solidarity groups.
 
“The role of the South African Government has been diplomatic 
facilitation and contact with all relevant parties”, stressed the 
Ministry of International Cooperation and Relations.
 
The activists, including Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandla Mandela and 
writer Zukiswa Wanner, arrived at OR Tambo International 
Airport today.
 
Previously, after their release, they had landed in Jordan, where 
they were received by the South African ambassador to that 
country, Tselane Mokuena.
 
The Chancellor, Ronald Lamola, reiterated the deep gratitude of 
the South African Executive to all the actors who cooperated 
to reach a successful solution.
 
The Sumud Global Flotilla, an international civil society initiative, 
set sail from Barcelona, Spain, at the beginning of September 
with the aim of delivering humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip 
and making the critical Palestinian situation ----- apparent.
 
The vessels were intercepted by Israel in international waters, 
resulting in the arrest of more than 470 people on board 
who were held for several days in Israeli territory.
 
 
____________________________________


133 people linked to drugs
 arrested in Nigeria
October 6th, 12:24pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Nigerian police reported today that they arrested 133 alleged 
criminals in Jigawa state following a raid in which they 
seized a huge one in that territory amount of drugs.
 
Command spokesman Lawan Shiisu Adam said that among the 
narcotics seized were marijuana and Exol and D5 tablets, 
substances considered very dangerous.
 
Through the coordinated state operation, cash and means of 
transportation were also recovered, including a motorcycle
 linked to drug trafficking, the source said.
 
He further stated that the suspects, who will be tried by courts, 
are being held under arrest on charges of alkaloid trafficking, 
possession of prohibited substances, and related crimes.
 
In Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa with more than 
200 million inhabitants -- police raids against drug traffickers 
and alkaloid distributors are frequent, considering that drug 
consumption affects the high rates of assaults and violent 
crimes in this African country.
 

______________________________________
 

 
ICC condemns African
militia chief... from
Darfur, Sudan
October 6th, 11:35am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The International Criminal Court (ICC) -- today convicted 
Ali Muhammad Ali Abd Al Rahman, head of a Sudanese 
militia, for war crimes and crimes against humanity 
committed twenty years ago during the civil war 
in the region.
 
Known by the nom de guerre Ali Kushayb, he was found 
guilty of multiple crimes, including rape, murder and 
torture committed in the Sudanese capital 
between 2003 and 2004.
 
The courtroom is ''convinced'' that the accused is guilty 
beyond a reasonable doubt of the crimes with which
 he is accused, declared Judge Joanna Korner, 
president of the ICC. The sentence will
be 
pronounced later, he said.
 
The prosecutor accused Abd Al Rahman of being a senior 
official in the Arab militias called Yanjawid, and of 
actively participating in the commission of the 
crimes. However --- he always denied the 
accusations, although he voluntarily 
surrendered in 2020.
 
Fighting began in 2003 in Darfur when rebels, claiming to be 
victims of ethnic discrimination, took up arms against the 
government of Al Bashir --- who reacted by deploying 
Yankee militias, formed by members of nomadic 
groups in the region.
 
According to the UN, the conflict in Darfur, which 
ended in 2020, left 300,000 dead and
2.5 
million displaced.
 
But since April 2023, Sudan has been experiencing a war 
between the army and the paramilitaries of the Rapid 
Support Forces (FSR).
 

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


_______________________________________
 
 
 
Sahrawis condemn trade pact 
between the EU and Morocco
October 6th, 10:51am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Polisario Front describes the trade agreement between 
the EU and Morocco as a clear violation of international 
legality, in a statement circulated today in the Capital.
 
The pact between the EU and Rabat came into force last 
Friday, which ignores the rights of the Sahrawi people 
and their legitimate representative, El Frente 
Polisario, the text alleges.
 
It is a clear violation of judicial rulings issued by courts on 
the occupied territory, adds the statement released by 
the SPA news agency.
 
We strongly condemn this new agreement that includes 
products from Western Sahara controlled by the Rabat 
army, which ignores the rights of the Sahrawi people 
and their legal representative.
 
The Polisario Front is the political arm of the Sahrawi Arab 
Democratic Republic, whose People's Liberation Army 
fights the Moroccan military forces that occupy 
areas of that territory.
 
 
_______________________________________
 
 

South African companies seek to 
expand exports at European fair
October 6th, 10:21am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
South African companies participating in the Anuga 2025 fair, 
in Cologne, Germany, hope to conclude new contracts and 
expand their presence in European markets, supported 
by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and 
Competition (Dtic).
 
According to a ministerial statement circulated here today, the 
event, which runs until the 8th, is the largest world food and 
beverage fair, and brings together producers, international 
distributors and buyers, with the intention of facilitating 
access to global markets and promoting export-
based industrialization.
 
Anuga, with 36 editions held, attracted more than 7,900 companies 
from 118 countries and some 140,000 visitors from more than 200 
nations in 2023, consolidating itself as a strategic platform for
 the diversification of South African exports.
 
South African participation in Anuga - is part of the DTIC's strategy 
to diversify markets and strengthen the country's export capacity, 
aiming at job creation and sustainable economic development 
through dynamic and competitive foreign trade.
 
Thus, according to reports from the event, Thobeka Ndabula, 
general director of Zazi Productions of Johannesburg, 
highlighted the opportunity to present its ready-to
-drink juices and nuts to European importers.
 
He stated that the company will expand its production capacity 
to respond to external demand and hopes to reach concrete 
agreements during the fair.
 
For his part, Theo Adams, manager of Kaukou, a honeybush tea 
producer in the Cape Garden Route region, aimed at increasing 
its international sales --- and consolidating its presence in the
Europe market, where they already have a limited presence.
 
Meanwhile, Chantelle De Bruyn-Motshabi, the director of Buttercup 
Farmhouse, located in Bloemfontein, expressed enthusiasm ---- for 
introducing his unique plant-based coffee and for opportunities to 
build lasting relationships with international buyers and retailers.
 
 
_________________________________________


The Secret Hand of the West: How the
 Ukrainians Ended Up on the Side
of 
the Rebels in Sudan
by Peter Ermilin
0ctober 6th, 2:33am
(Pravda.ru)
 
Ukrainian mercenaries... were eliminated during the fighting in 
Darfur, where they supported the rebels from the group Rapid 
Support Forces (RSF, "Rapid Reaction Forces"), according to
 the US military magazine Military Watch Magazine (MWM). 
 
In a new article that the author publishes, of a translation 
of Pravda.Ru, the author tells about the defeat of foreign 
mercenaries and the role of Ukraine in African conflicts.
 
Ukrainian mercenaries were eliminated during operations in the 
Darfur region of Sudan ----- after they were sent to support the 
Western-backed rebel group Rapid Support Forces, which is 
waging war - against the Sudanese state. The Sudanese 
Armed Forces reported -- that the Ukrainian units were 
neutralized during the 6th Infantry Division's offensive 
against the besieged city of El Fasher, the capital of 
North Darfur.
 
The offensive also resulted in "heavy losses of manpower and 
equipment." The attack also resulted in the elimination of 
Colombian mercenaries. The armed forces' statement 
noted that among the foreign specialists who were 
eliminated were "engineers in the field of drones 
and electronic systems" who were "trying to
 infiltrate the outskirts of the city."
 
The deployment of Ukrainian personnel ------ to support rebellions 
against governments outside the Western sphere of influence is 
not the first time this has happened. Ukrainian drone operators 
have been active in Syria since 2023, where they have 
assisted Western, Turkish, and Israeli groups fighting 
against the Syrian government. 
 
In several West African countries from where French forces have 
recently been expelled, particularly in Mali, it has also been 
widely reported that Ukrainians are providing assistance 
to rebels, particularly in the field of drones. These 
accusations were supported by videos showing 
the rebels posing with Ukrainian soldiers.
 
A Sudanese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said in June that 
Ukraine's actions were carrying out the West's "dirty work" 
in several African countries. Ukrainian forces were also 
seen in Hong Kong in 2019 ------ where they supported 
Western-backed riots against the local government.
 
The Rapid Support Forces group makes extensive use of foreign 
mercenaries ---- who make up the bulk of its personnel. These 
mercenaries, are predominantly from Chad and other Central 
African countries. Sudanese sources also report that a 
small number of Australian specialists are working 
with the RSF ------- providing command and 
management services.
 
Since 2024, Colombian mercenaries have made up a significant 
portion of the RSF contingent, as confirmed by both Sudanese 
and Colombian government sources. In early August, the 
Colombians suffered particularly heavy losses -- when 
the Sudanese Air Force shot down a transport plane 
near Nyala Airport in southern Darfur. The plane 
was carrying over 40 Colombian contractors.
 
 
___________________________________


Nicaragua greeted Lesotho
 for the 59th anniversary of
 its independence
October 4th, 1:35pm
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The Government of Nicaragua conveyed its greetings to the 
Kingdom of Lesotho on the occasion of celebrating today 
the 59th anniversary of the independence of that 
African nation.
 
In a message addressed to His Majesty, King Letsie III, 
the Sandinista Executive expressed its most sincere 
congratulations to the people and Government of 
that country, highlighting the ties of friendship 
and respect that unite both nations.
 
“From our Nicaragua, Always Blessed and Always Free, receive
 the greetings and respect of the Nicaraguan people to the 
people of Lesotho”, the message signed by co-presidents 
Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo, concluded.
 
The independence of Lesotho, a former British colony, marked the 
beginning of a stage of political and social self-determination for 
that nation located in southern Africa -- recognized for its active 
participation in the Southern African Development Community 
and in international forums ---- in favour of sustainable 
development and peace.
 
 
_______________________________
 
 
 
Monusco: condemns increase 
in violence in eastern DRC
October 4th, 10:48am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The United Nations Stabilization Mission in the Democratic 
Republic of the Congo (Monusco) strongly condemned the 
escalation of violence in the territory of Djugu, province 
of Ituri, through a statement released today.
 
The message rejected actions such as those that occurred on 
October 2, when clashes between elements of the Congo 
Development Cooperative (Codeco) and the Zaire group 
in the village of Maze caused the death of about 13 
people, including displaced civilians and at least 
seven members of armed groups.
 
Monusco also noted that on the night of October 2 to 3, shots 
attributed to unidentified men were recorded in Gina, about 
30 kilometres northeast of Bunia ---- which caused the 
displacement of approximately 2,500 civilians to the 
UN force base, where they received protection.
 
The note highlighted the deep concern about these acts 
of violence, which could constitute serious violations 
of international humanitarian law and fundamental 
human rights.
 
It expressed its condolences to the affected families and 
communities and reaffirmed his full solidarity with them, 
while - urgently - urging the Congolese authorities to 
conduct impartial investigations and bring those 
responsible to justice, without delay.
 
The deputy special representative of the UN Secretary General 
in the DRC for Protection and Operations, and acting head of 
Monusco, Vivian van de Perre, said it meant that the blue 
helmets reinforced their presence at critical points in 
Ituri, intensified patrols and closely coordinated 
the protection of civilians with the Army.
 
“Monusco urges --- all armed groups to strictly respect the 
commitments made under the Aru II Peace Agreement, 
immediately cease hostilities against the civilian 
population and adopt a non-violent path 
towards lasting peace”, the 
statement said.
 
The message added a strong condemnation of the militarization 
of internally displaced persons settlements and reiterated its 
determination to collaborate with Congolese authorities and 
local communities to prevent further attacks, protect the 
most vulnerable, reduce tensions...... and support the 
stabilization of areas affected by armed violence.
 
 
 
__________________________________



They urge ------ the establishment of 
African Union financial institutions
October 3rd, 12:30pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The eighth session of the Specialized Technical Committee (CTE) 
on Finance, Monetary Affairs, Economic Planning and Integration 
concluded today with a call to accelerate the establishment of
 the African Union's financial institutions.
 
The event, held in Johannesburg, South Africa, under the motto: 
“Reducing the health financing gap in Africa -- in a changing 
geoeconomic context: challenges and possible solutions”, 
he also spoke out in favour of strengthening the 
continent's credit rating agency.
 
Participants also urged Finance Ministers and Central Bank 
Governors to push forward recommendations on debt, 
domestic resource mobilization, health financing 
and Africa's common position on global 
financial reforms.
 
These efforts are essential to guarantee compliance with the 
objectives of the 2063 Agenda for financial sovereignty and 
inclusive growth, highlighted the meeting, which included
 high-level dialogues and technical debates.
 
During these days - the report on Africa's progress and challenges 
on the path towards integration was also presented, which noted 
that despite the progress, intra-african trade is still below 16 and 
18 percent, while free movement protocols.... remain unratified.
 
The AU Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, 
Integration & Minerals, Francisca Tatchouop Belobe, commented 
on the publication that offers crucial information to accelerate 
the 2063 Agenda and deepen continental integration.
 
In this regard, he mentioned that industrialization and value 
addition are still in their infancy, meanwhile, most regional 
integration programs lack sufficient funds.....  and depend 
too much on external financing to reach their objectives.
 
He also addressed the challenge of peace and investing in 
shared infrastructure: transportation, energy, water and 
digital connectivity.... since no country can integrate 
in isolation.
 
 
_______________________________________________________
 
 
 
Government ready to hear complaints, 
says Moroccan prime minister
October 3rd, 11:02am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, assured today that his 
government, is ready to meet the demands of the protesters who 
have been shaking this North African country for nearly a week.
 
The street demonstrations here and in other cities, causing three 
deaths and hundreds of arrests and injuries - demand attention 
from the education and health sectors ---- which they consider 
abandoned, while the authorities spend enormous resources 
in preparations for the 2030 Soccer World Cup, scheduled 
for this capital.
 
The head of the Government said in a meeting with his ministers 
that political parties ask protesters to control themselves, be 
aware, sacrifice, be good citizens and love their country, 
but they don't listen.
 
He added that the Protesters --- have 
not made a single public statement.
 
The street demonstrations, rudely confronted by the Royal 
Gendarmerie, carried out mostly by young people, broke 
out at the beginning of this week, called by the 
GENZ 212 platform ------- which declared a 
“strategic withdrawal” the day before.
 
For its part, hours ago, the Moroccan Prosecutor's Office issued 
a statement in which it warned that the demonstrations are not
part of the right to expression and threatened the participants 
with severe prison sentences, including life imprisonment.
 
 
_______________________________________________
 

 
DRC and Rwanda meet again 
to reach a peace agreement
October 3rd, 10:58am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
For the third time, representatives of the Democratic Republic of 
the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda met to address the completion of 
the peace agreement signed on June 27, radio Okapi 
reported today.
 
The meeting of the Joint Oversight Committee (IOC), held
the day before with the participation of mediators from
the US, Qatar, 
Togo (facilitator of the African Union)
and the African Union 
Commission, recognized
the persistence ----- of challenges to
 the
implementation of the agreement.
 
In this sense..... the neutralization of the Democratic Liberation 
Forces of Rwanda and its associated factions was mentioned, 
as well as the withdrawal of forces from Rwanda and the
 lifting of defensive measures.
 
Both parties finalized the operation order presented by the Joint 
Security Coordination Mechanism, said the source, who added 
among the aspects awaiting implementation, is access of the 
International Committee of the Red Cross -- to all detainees.
 
During the meeting they highlighted the urgency of complying with 
what was agreed in the documents and translating it into facts, 
as well as abandoning all hostile rhetoric, particularly in 
international forums.
 
The Committee is due to hold its fourth meeting following the 
Joint Security Coordination Mechanism, which is scheduled 
for October 21 and 22.
 
Meanwhile, in the east of the DRC, tensions are increasing in the 
territories of Uvira, in the province of South Kivu, and Walikale, 
in North Kivu, with a notable reinforcement in men and teams 
by the Congo River Alliance-March 23 Movement (AFC/M23), 
which has the support of Kigali.
 
 
_______________________________________________


Protests in Madagascar
are paused
October 2nd, 1:01pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The deep political crisis on this African island in the 
Indian Ocean went on pause today after opposition 
protesters declared a “strategic withdrawal”.
 
For their part, the ambassadors of six countries: Germany, 
France, Great Britain, Japan, South Korea, Switzerland 
and the EU called on the government and protesters 
to start a constructive dialogue.
 
Earlier this week, in an apparent effort to calm things down, 
Malagasy President Andry Rajoelina dissolved the cabinet, 
but the street protests continued and to date have left a 
trail of 22 dead among the Protesters.
 
The riots led by young people were triggered, due to what 
protesters describe as bad government and the serious 
problems faced by all public services.
 
 
_______________________________
 
 
 
Pro-government candidates win 
legislative elections in Gabon
October 2nd, 11:54am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Opposition parties today denounce what they describe as 
massive fraud in the legislative elections won by the 
candidates of the political group in government.
 
In the first round of the elections, the candidates of the 
Democratic Union of Builders party monopolized 55 
of the 145 seats in the National Assembly.. in 
accordance with the calculation released
 by the Ministry of the Interior.
 
The second consultation is scheduled for October 11, 
although one of the protest leaders, Alain Claude 
Bilié-By-Nze -- of the Together for Gabon Party, 
demanded an annulment of the consultation, 
for what he described.. as “huge frauds” 
and irregularities during the vote.
 
In the second call, 77 constituency seats will be in dispute
 in which none of the candidates obtained the majority 
required to claim victory.
 
 
_____________________________

 
 
Díaz-Canel describes meeting
with the 
Foreign Minister of
Namibia --- as 
excellent 
October 1st, 12:08pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of Cuba, Miguel Díaz-Canel, today described 
as excellent the meeting he held with the chancellor of 
Namibia, Selma Ashipala-Musavyi.
 
“We treasure the historical friendship that 
unites us”, he highlighted.
 
During the dialogue, held the day before, the head of state 
highlighted that the newly established Intergovernmental 
Commission between Havana and Windhoek - will mark a 
milestone in strengthening and expanding bilateral ties, 
which he classified as: at an “excellent political level” 
....and in progress in the economic, commercial and 
cooperation fields.
 
Díaz-Canel stressed that this mechanism “we only establish it 
with very sister nations, such as you”, at the same time, he 
highlighted the deep historical and emotional significance 
of the visit of the African delegation.
 
«This visit, for us, has several meanings: one is the continuity 
of our relations, of our historical relations, honoured by the 
friendship between the founding father of the Republic of 
Namibia, Sam Nujoma, and Commander in Chief Fidel 
Castro, and they have continued in all these years», 
he stated.
 
The Cuban president described the ties between both nations as 
endearing and unique relationships, based on affection, respect, 
solidarity, affection and mutual admiration.
 
He ratified the willingness.. to “continue expanding our 
collaboration, in all the sectors that you have raised 
--- in this Intergovernmental Commission: health, 
education, construction, hydraulic resources, 
in biotechnology, also cultural, educational, 
and sports exchange, receiving students
 from Namibia in Cuba, and in any other
 sector or field ..we can”.
 
For her part, the Namibian Minister of International Relations
 and Trade... thanked the head of state for the welcome and 
conveyed “warm greetings from your brother,
our President”.
 
Regarding the Intergovernmental Commission, she pointed 
out that for her country's leadership --- it represents
“a very important, profound
 mechanism”.
 
The chancellor valued that although times are difficult, «they also 
represent an opportunity for the countries of the South to unite 
and reject what is happening, and also to show the world 
that we ...have everything we need”.
 
 
_____________________________________
 
 
The first Cuba-Tanzania Workshop
on Traditional Medicine
prospers 
October 1st, 11:15am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Cuba-Tanzania workshop on traditional medicine, the first of 
its kind on the Caribbean island and accredited by the National 
Council of Scientific Health Societies --- until tomorrow, brings
together specialists from both nations in this capital.
 
It is a space for technical and scientific dialogue that is committed 
to the consolidation of good practices in this area, with the 
participation of representatives of universities, 
pharmacists and traditional medicine 
practitioners, as published on its 
website by the Ministry of 
Health (Minsap).
 
Relevant topics are addressed --- such as the Cuban program for the
development and generalization of natural and traditional medicine; 
Tanzania's experience in complementary medicine; the cultivation 
and collection of medicinal plants in the Greater Antilles; and the 
pharmaceutical productions, using natural products.
 
According to Dr. Johann Perdomo, head of the Department of Natural 
and Traditional Medicine at Minsap, this event called Cuba-Tanzania 
Scientific Exchange Workshop 2025, responds to an initiative 
promoted by the Tanzanian embassy in Cuba and Minsap, 
says the source.
 
It reaffirms the commitment of both countries to the sustainable 
development of ancestral medical practices, integrated into 
public health systems, for the benefit of their people, 
noted the doctor.
 
 
_________________________________
 

Forestry and fishing drive
 coastal development
 in South Africa
October 1st, 9:55am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The forestry and fishing sectors are today considered essential 
drivers for rural and coastal development in South Africa, 
contributing significantly to the economic growth of
 South Africa, said the minister of the sector, 
Dion George.
 
For the head of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment, the key role of 
these industries allows not only to promote job creation, but also...
support thousands of families and promote social transformation in 
regions usually marginalized from the national economic narrative.
 
Recent data put forward by the Ministry before the press show 
solid growth in agriculture, forestry and fishing ...during 2024 
and the first half of 2025, periods in which other productive 
branches faced difficulties.
 
At the centre of that push is the Commercial Forestry Master Plan, 
approved in 2019, which seeks inclusive development ----- by 
transferring state plantations to local communities.
 
That strategy, George said, has opened up new opportunities in 
wood production and processing, creating jobs in rural areas.
 
In the fishing field, the government has formally recognized 
nearly 10,000 artisanal fishermen grouped in 171 
cooperatives - distributed in four provinces.
 
Supported by co-management programs, controlled abalone 
breeding and technical advice, these groups access 
resources that increase their income and 
economic resilience, he added.
 
In this context, the «Fishing for Freedom» campaign has revitalized
 South African ports, transforming them into poles of diversified 
economic activity that includes fish processing, ship repair, 
tourism and hospitality services.
 
The Minister stressed --- that each strengthened cooperative and 
each restored port demonstrate that environmental protection
 and job creation ------ are not antagonistic objectives, 
but complementary.
 
“Sowing trees, empowering cooperatives and revitalizing ports are 
clear examples that rural and coastal economies.. do not wait on 
the sidelines, but rather, lead South Africa's growth narrative”, 
he concluded.
 
 
______________________________________________________________



DRC: Conflicts killed over 
1,080 citizens since June
October 1st, 8:38am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
From June to this day, the United Nations Organization 
Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of
 the Congo (MONUSCO) has killed 1,087 civilians
 in acts of violence in the Ituri and North
 Kivu provinces.
 
The UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative in the DRC 
and head of that force, Bintou Keita, made the remark to the 
Security Council and emphasized that peace in the country 
remains a promise, as there are gaps between progress 
in the signed documents and the reality on the ground.
 
Keita explained in a meeting on Tuesday the current situation 
in eastern Congo, marked by the violence of hundreds of 
armed groups and the occupation of territories by the 
Congo River Alliance-March 23 Movement (AFC/M23), 
with which the clashes continue.
 
Despite the Security Council’s decisions and the progress 
represented.. by the agreement signed in Washington 
between the DRC and Rwanda, and the Declaration 
of Principles between the Congolese government 
and AFC/M23 rebels, there is no real ceasefire.
 
Keita also lamented the funding shortage for aid to 
vulnerable populations, which is increasing daily 
due to violence and displacement.
 
 
_________________________________
 
 
 
Tinubu Marks Nigeria Independence Day 
With Optimism - on Economic Recovery
October 1st, 5:31am
(teleSUR)
 
Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said on Wednesday, 
that the country is starting to overcome the worst cost
-of-living crisis in a generation ----- and defended his 
government’s tough economic reforms ------- as 
“fundamental” ---- to reviving the weakened 
national economy, as Nigeria celebrates 
65 years of independence.
 
“I am pleased to report that the worst is behind us. The sacrifices
 are beginning to bring relief. Our economy, is recovering: in the 
second quarter of 2025 --- GDP grew by 4.23%, inflation fell
to 20.12% in August, and foreign reserves reached $42 billion, 
the highest level since 2019,” Tinubu stated, in a speech 
marking the country’s 65th Independence Anniversary.
 
Tinubu... defended his government’s sweeping reforms — most 
notably scrapping fuel subsidies and unifying exchange rates
— measures that fueled inflation and public anger but which 
he argued were --- unavoidable --- to rescue Nigeria’s 
struggling economy.
 
He argued that Nigeria faced a choice between economic collapse
 and bold action, and that his administration opted for reform — a 
decision he says is now beginning to yield results.. less than
 three years later.
 
He called on state governments to work with Abuja, in reshaping 
Africa’s largest economy from one driven by consumption ---
 to one rooted in production
 
Nigeria, home to over 230 million people and a leading oil 
producer, is pushing for renewed growth. Tinubu has set
 a target of 7% annual GDP expansion by 2027, aiming 
to lift millions out of poverty ---- and quadruple the 
economy’s size.. by 2030.
 
Since taking power in May 2023, the president has devalued the 
naira and removed subsidies on fuel and electricity — policies 
that unleashed the worst cost-of-living crisis in decades but, 
he maintains, are ''laying the groundwork'' for recovery.
 
 
____________________________________

 DRC court ---- sentences 
former President Kabila
 to death
September 30th, 2:10pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Superior Military Court of the Democratic Republic of 
the Congo (DRC) today ---- sentenced former President 
Joseph Kabila to death, for treason and participation
 in the insurrection led by the Congo River Alliance
-March 23 Movement (AFC/M23).
 
The court determined that the former head of state must also pay 
damages of $33 billion, among which are included restitutions to
the Republic and the provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu.
 
The immediate -- and perpetual arrest of Kabila was also ordered, 
who was found guilty of all the crimes of which he was accused, 
including treason, participation in an insurrectional movement 
and war crimes.
 
Regarding the questioning of his Congolese nationality, the Superior 
Military Court declared itself incompetent and indicated to refer
 these requests to the Government; while it also rejected the 
request of the attorney general of the DRC Armed Forces 
to seize the accused's assets.
 
Kabila, who was president between 2001 and 2019, is considered 
the leader of the AFC/M23 offensive, that has occupied several 
territories in the east of the country, among them the capital 
cities of North Kivu and South Kivu, and which are 
accused of numerous war crimes.
 
The process against him took place in absentia, since
 according to the politician himself.... he is in exile.
 
However, this year.. Kabila entered the DRC through the occupied 
territories and held meetings with different groups in those areas.
 
The court designated him as the undisputed leader of the country's
 rebel movements since the rebellion of Colonel Jules Mutebusi 
(2004), and according to the instance, on this occasion he 
carried out inspections at the AFC/M23 training centres, 
supervised the meetings of the rebel headquarters - 
and directed hostilities.
 
 
_______________________________________________
 
 
Vice President of Venezuela thanks
 Africa ------ for solidarity at the UN
September 30th, 1:35pm
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The executive vice president of Venezuela, Delcy Rodríguez, 

thanked today - on behalf of President Nicolás Maduro - the
expressions of support and solidarity from African 
countries, during the 80th session of the
UN 
General Assembly.
 
By intervening virtually in the Energy Week of that continent, the 
Venezuelan Minister of Hydrocarbons referred to the US military 
deployment in the Caribbean Sea with the objective of “taking 
over the largest oil reserves on the planet”.
 
Likewise, she added, from the large gas reserves, minerals such 
as gold, lithium, diamond, bauxite ---- and bio-natural riches.
 
She reiterated his gratitude - and rejection against these threats, 
which, she said, disturb peace and tranquility in the Caribbean.
 
Rodríguez praised that the Bolivarian Republic is the only non-
African State to be part of the organization and expressed 
her “eternal gratitude”.
 
Commenting on this Week's title: “Investing in African energies, 
positioning Africa as the world energy champion”, the vice 
president considered it - pertinent.
 
In that sense, she contributed to positioning that continent “as
 the world champion of the historical morality of resistance 
against the colonialist powers of yesterday and the 
neocolonialists of today”.
 
The lieutenant governor highlighted - that this region represents 
7.8& of world reserves and eight percent of daily oil production.
 
Assessing the importance of the event - meant that it serves for 
dialogue between investors, business and government sectors, 
and the private and public spheres, as “meeting on a single 
route and enhancing the energy capacities of Africa and 
our countries”.
 
She also highlighted the role of the African continent in 
global energy markets, not only now, but also what it 
will play in the future.
 
Rodríguez considered essential the issue of Africa and the energy 
poverty that “hits all brother countries”, where 2 billion people 
live - cooking with polluting fuels such as coal and firewood 
with half of these, in Africa.
 
She pointed out that between 600 and 685 million Africans do not 
have access to electricity and stated --- that this energy poverty 
must “be on the agenda of our countries and people” -- as there 
cannot be any Global South ----- with gaps so marked and deep 
that they have such obvious energy inequality.
 
The Bolivarian minister also opted to guarantee overcoming the 
energy dilemma, with accessibility to energy, security and 
sustainability, to achieve a reliable ''green'' transition, 
which Caracas defends in respect of Mother Nature.
 
 
________________________________________________
 
 
 
South Africa's government -- 
prioritizes economic growth
September 30th, 12:48pm
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
Economic growth and the execution of current government 
plans focused the debate today in the Extended Cabinet 
convened by the president, Cyril Ramaphosa.
 
The event brought together ministers, deputy ministers, 
provincial prime ministers and representatives of the 
South African Association of Local Governments
(SALGA), with a determined focus on inclusive 
growth, structural reform and improvements
 in the delivery of public services.
 
According to Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, Minister of the Presidency, 
the Executive does not seek to formulate a new economic plan, 
but rather to consolidate and implement existing strategies. 
“We prioritize immediate impact actions, clearly identified 
solutions and medium and long-term goals”, he declared.
 
The session is part of the government planning cycle and 
addresses crucial issues.. such as high unemployment, 
citizen insecurity and the rising cost of living, as well 
as the strengthening of the State so it responds 
effectively to social demands.
 
Ntshavheni noted that the proposals regarding economic 
reforms are aligned with interventions aimed at 
strengthening the capacities of local 
government and optimizing 
service to citizens.
 
“We analyze.. successful and problematic cases in the 
municipalities to define new measures, including the 
application of the municipal reform white paper”, 
he explained.
 
Likewise, the Minister reaffirmed that the government 
consolidates previously adopted plans through the 
collaboration of the Presidency, the National 
Treasury and the Ministry of Commerce, 
Industry and Competition, avoiding 
any duplication of strategies.
 
In international matters, South Africa reiterated its historic 
position on the conflict in the Middle East, supporting the 
two-state solution based on the Palestinian borders of 
1967. “We support initiatives.. under the umbrella of 
the United Nations - and other regional ones that
 include the full participation of Palestine”, 
Ntshavheni said.
 
 
_________________________________________________
 
 
They awarded a medal..... for Angolan
independence to a Cuban combatant
September 30th, 12:47pm
(Prensa Latina)

The president of Angola, João Lourenço, today posthumously
presented the commemorative medal for the 50 years of
national independence, to the Cuban commander Raúl
Díaz-Argüelles (1937-1975), received by his daughter,
Natasha Díaz-Argüelles.


In a solemn ceremony, where national and foreign personalities
received the recognition, the distinction in the Peace and
Development Class was awarded to.. whoever was the
first head of Cuba's military mission in this country.
 
Díaz-Argüelles -- is the third Cuban to receive the decoration,
since it was previously awarded - in the Independence Class
to Army Corps General Leopoldo Cintra Frías, who received
it personally; and posthumously to Brigadier General
Rafael Moracén Limonta, also in the Peace
and Development Class.
 
The Cuban soldier was linked to the initial moments of the
Caribbean nation's collaboration in Angola, that --- at the
request of the government of António Agostinho Neto
sent officers to contribute to the preparation of the
Popular Armed Forces for the Liberation of
Angola (Fapla).
 
Along with these fighters and island forces sent as part of
Operation Carlota, he participated in some of the main
battles that ensured the declaration of national
independence on November 11, 1975 and
the sovereignty of the territory.
 
Last October 21, when inaugurating the Cuanza Sur hospital
that bears the name of the Cuban who died in Angolan
lands on December 11, 1975, president Lourenço
highlighted his contribution to the country.
 
He referred to his role in the Battle of Kifangondo, whose
victory allowed independence to be declared; and the
Battle of Ebo, just a month after Angola emerged
free of colonialism, and that prevented South
Africa.. from advancing towards Luanda
and losing what it had conquered,
he explained.
 
After that ----- there were other battles, but these were
fundamental for the moment in which they occurred
and any of them.. could have defined that we were
not independent or that we would have achieved
it much later, with a higher cost of Angolan
blood and sweat, the president argued.
 
Raúl Díaz Argüelles, who was posthumously promoted on
December 2, 1976 - to the rank of Brigade General of the
Revolutionary Armed Forces, died from injuries caused
....after the armoured transporter on which he was
traveling made contact with an anti-tank mine.
 
The combatant also received - post mortem - the Honorary
Title of Hero of the Republic of Cuba, the Order «Máximo
Gómez» of the First Degree and the Agostinho Neto,
the latter delivered by President João Lourenço
in Havana, in 2019.
 
 
________________________________________________
 
 
 
South Africa promotes national plan 
against low-quality medicines
September 30th, 12:44pm
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
South Africa today presented the first comprehensive 
National Action Plan (NAP) in Africa to confront the 
threat of substandard and counterfeit 
medical products.
 
At an event held at the Protea Hotel OR Tambo Airport, the 
Minister of Health, Aaron Motsoaledi, reaffirmed the 
government's commitment to the safety, 
effectiveness and quality... of all 
medicines, vaccines ---- and 
health products available 
in the country.
 
He described the plan as an essential tool to protect lives 
and ensure the integrity of health systems in the face of
 this serious problem.
 
Counterfeit or substandard medical products represent a 
global risk and cost countless lives annually, many 
undetected ---- according to the World Health 
Organization (WHO), the official recalled.
 
Africa concentrates a significant proportion of these illicit 
products, which directly affects public health and hinders 
compliance with Sustainable Development Goal 3, aimed 
at ensuring universal access to health.
 
The NAP was prepared by a multisectoral committee following
 the guidelines of the WHO pilot manual and marks the 
conclusion of said experimental phase, allowing 
its implementation in all member countries.
 
The initiative was officially launched by the South African 
Healthcare Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), 
in cooperation with the Ministry of Health and WHO.
 
Motsoaledi highlighted that this strategy establishes a framework 
to strengthen technical capacity and promote collaboration 
between all actors involved in the manufacturing, import, 
distribution and supply of medical products.
 
He stressed the importance of training staff at key points in 
the chain, both in the public and private sectors, to identify 
and report suspicious products.
 
“The PAN requires greater surveillance at ports of entry and 
rigorous post-market monitoring of high-risk products, as 
well as permanent inspections of manufacturers, 
distributors and wholesalers”, he claimed.
 
During the fifth regular session of the African Union Specialized 
Technical Committee on Health, Population, Nutrition and Drug 
Control, the Minister warned about the growing incidence of 
counterfeit medical products on the continent and the 
associated economic losses. He recalled that, in 
October 2022 ----- several child deaths in The 
Gambia, were linked to this phenomenon.
 
In his speech, Motsoaledi thanked the WHO for choosing South 
Africa for this initiative and announced that the country will 
present this pilot project at the next meeting of the 
Member States Mechanism on Sustainable 
Financing, scheduled for November 
2025 in Geneva, Switzerland.
 
 
__________________________________________________
 
 
 
Gasoline price rises slightly 
in South Africa, diesel falls
September 30th, 11:39am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Starting tomorrow, October 1, South Africa will apply 
mixed adjustments in fuel prices, with a slight rise 
in gasoline and a reduction in diesel, the Ministry 
of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR) 
revealed today.
 
According to an official note, 93 octane gasoline, both in its 
ultra-low lead (ULP) and low lead (LRP) versions, it will 
register a marginal increase close to $0.003 per litre.
 
95 octane gasoline, also in its ULP and LRP versions, will 
have a somewhat greater rise, around $0.025 per litre.
 
On the other hand, diesel will experience a drop in its two 
variants: diesel with 0.05 percent sulphur will become 
cheaper by approximately $0.031 per litre, while 
ultra-low sulphur diesel (0.005 percent) will 
decrease by about $0.025 per litre.
 
Likewise, kerosene (lighting paraffin) prices will experience 
declines in both the wholesale and retail markets, with
 decreases of around $0.034 and $0.046 per
 litre, respectively.
 
On the other hand, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) will reduce its 
maximum retail price throughout the country by about $0.052 
per litre, with a steeper drop in the Western Cape province, 
where the drop will reach $0.058 per litre.
 
The Ministry attributed these fluctuations to a slight increase
 in the price of Brent crude oil, which went from $67.01 to 
$67.16 per barrel, driven mainly by the uncertainty 
generated by the conflicts between Russia and 
Ukraine, as well as rising tensions in the 
Middle East.
 
These geopolitical risks outweigh the expected effect of OPEC+'s 
recent announcement... to increase its production in October, 
which could have generated greater supply and therefore 
lower prices.
 
International prices of derived fuels followed the 
upward trend of crude oil in global markets.
 
However, the appreciation of the South African rand against the 
US dollar, which went from 17.73 to 17.49 rands per dollar 
during the period analyzed, helped cushion the impact 
of rising crude oil on domestic prices.
 
This relative strength of the local currency generated negative 
contributions to basic fuel prices: reductions equivalent to 
approximately $0.008 per litre in gasoline, $0.009 in 
diesel and $0.008 in kerosene.
 
In relation to LPG, international prices of propane and butane 
remained stable during the period, while a decrease in 
shipping costs helped contain prices for
 local consumers.
 
 
____________________________________________________




Cuba and Namibia dialogue.... to 
deepen historical bilateral ties
September 29th, 1:16pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Cuban-Namibian friendship and solidarity, will be taken to a higher 
level in multiple spheres of mutual benefit, delegations from both 
nations confirmed here today during the inauguration of the 
first Session of the Intergovernmental Commission.
 
Host Minister of Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment Oscar
Pérez-Oliva welcomed Namibia's Minister of International 
Relations and Trade, Selma Ashipala-Musavyi and 
confirmed her confidence in working together 
to consolidate a fruitful agenda ------- that 
expands opportunities.
 
Pérez-Oliva told the visiting delegation of the commitment to 
identify areas of cooperation and business, productive and 
technological capabilities, at the same time as promoting 
an environment....... favorable to investment for 
economic development.
 
The Cuban minister praised the expansion and promotion
 in sectors such as health, education, infrastructure,
 construction and housing, among others.
 
During the opening of the intergovernmental session, the 
Antillean minister ------ sent thanks to the President of 
Namibia, Netumbo Nandi..... who raised her voice 
at the 80th United Nations General Assembly,
 against the criminal blockade of the US
-------- against Cuba.
 
For her part, Selma Ashipala-Musavyi agreed that “now 
is the time to complement this base of bilateral 
relations of solidarity, diversifying our 
cooperation towards concrete
 economic associations 
of bilateral trade”.
 
He reaffirmed his country's commitment to strengthening and 
expanding cooperation while emphasizing, “Together, let us 
continue to build an alliance that reflects not only our 
shared history, but also our shared future: a future 
of prosperity, dignity and justice for our people”.
 
The first Session... of the Namibia-Cuba Intergovernmental 
Commission based in the protocol room of El Laguito, in 
Havana, provides for the signing of 4 legal instruments.
 
Two memorandums of understanding correspond to the health 
area with the Centre for State Drug Development, medical 
Equipment and Devices (Cecmed) and another with the 
BioCubaFarma Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical 
Sector Group.
 
Likewise, a Cooperation Agreement on Physical Culture 
and Sports will be signed and also an Action Plan for 
implementation.... of the Framework Collaboration 
Agreement, between the University of Computer 
Sciences (UCI) from Cuba and the University
of 
Namibia (UNAM).
 
 
________________________________
 
 
 
Critical famine - in camps for 
displaced people in Sudan
September 29th, 11:33am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The situation of those displaced by the war in the Sudanese
refugee camps near El Fasher city, is today described as 
critical - by medical sources in that town.
 
According to the so-called Emergency Cell of the Abu Shuk Camp, 
located near the besieged city of El Fasher, about 100 people 
died in the last 45 days from hunger and disease, and of 
those - there are a terrifying 73 children.
 
El Fasher, capital of North Darfur, continues to be besieged by the 
so-called Rapid Support Forces (RSF) - that are trying to expel the 
Army from that city, to install the capital of a parallel government 
there, rejected by the majority of the international community.
 
For months, the city has been suffering a deterioration in its 
situation due to constant artillery and drone bombardments.
 
Sources denounce the almost total lack of basic services in 
the camp, mainly water and food, which is why about eight 
people die every day, mostly children, victims of hunger 
and disease and many corpses are left unburied, 
which can lead to epidemics.
 
 
___________________________________



Zelensky: Kiev has agreed to supply 
weapons to African countries!
September 27th, 9:15pm
(RT.ru)
 
Ukraine has agreed - to supply surplus weapons to
 African countries, according to Vladimir Zelensky.
 
"An agreement has been reached with the African continent 
at the UN General Assembly, and there are already 
proposals from several African countries and a
 request for representation in Africa," he 
wrote on his Telegram channel.
 
According to Zelensky.... Ukraine also intends to 
export weapons to Europe, the US, and Middle 
Eastern countries.
 
Earlier, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said that
 Ukrainian specialists train combat groups in Mali 
and supply them with drones.
 
 
_______________________________


The President of Cuba receives Gabon's 
counterpart and they sign agreements
September 27th, 2:02pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of Cuba, Miguel Díaz-Canel, received here today 
his counterpart from the Republic of Gabon, Brice Clotaire 
Oligui Nguema, with whom he signed bilateral 
agreements to strengthen cooperation
 in various areas.
 
During the official conversations held at the Palace of the 
Revolution, headquarters of the executive, Díaz-Canel 
expressed to the African president that it is an 
honour for the people and the Government 
to receive him - for the first time - in his 
capacity as President of the sister 
Gabonese nation.
 
The Cuban president... especially thanked the Gabonese 
government for its historic support in the fight against 
the economic, commercial and financial blockade
 imposed by the United States against the island.
 
Both parties highlighted their interest ---- in deepening ties of 
collaboration in strategic sectors such as health, education
 and agriculture. In this context, they signed a Framework
 Cooperation Agreement, which will serve as a basis for 
developing and executing joint programs and projects 
between the public and private institutions.... of 
both countries.
 
In addition, they signed an Agreement on the Execution of Criminal 
Sentences - which will facilitate coordination in matters of mutual 
legal assistance for transfering convicted citizens of each nation.
 
A Memorandum of Understanding was also signed between the 
Ministries of Agriculture of Cuba & Gabon, aimed at promoting 
cooperation in agricultural and livestock activities.
 
Prior to the bilateral meeting, the Gabonese president, 
accompanied by the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs 
of Cuba, Elio Rodríguez, paid tribute to the Cuban 
National Hero, José Martí, by laying a wreath 
at the base of the Memorial that honours 
him, in this capital.
 
Cuba and Gabon established diplomatic relations on March 26, 
1974, and since then they have maintained fraternal and 
solidarity ties ...for more than half a century.
 
 
_____________________________________


DRC president Activates agenda 
on the sidelines of UN sessions
September 27th, 1:03pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), 
Félix Tshisekedi, held several meetings in New York, US, 
aside from its participation in the United Nations 
General Assembly, the Congolese Presidency 
reported today.
 
The president received in audience.. a delegation from the World 
Food Program (WFP), led by its executive director, Cindy McCain, 
with whom -- he spoke about the emergency response of the UN
 agency in the DRC, particularly in the east of the country.
 
WFP provides vital food and nutrition assistance, to millions of 
people affected by violence, displacement and hunger --- but 
according to McCain, his teams currently face numerous 
difficulties in carrying out their humanitarian work.
 
Another aspect that limits its actions, is the financing, which is 
scarce for the great needs that exist in the country, where it is 
considered that 28 million people face serious food insecurity.
 
According to the latest Integrated Food Security Phase 
Classification, almost four million people suffer from 
emergency hunger levels, which is showing 
critical signs in eastern DRC.
 
WFP has prioritized assistance to the most vulnerable people 
due to funding shortfalls, and plans to reach 6.4 million 
people with food and nutrition assistance, by 2025.
 
The program needs an additional $433 million to maintain 
its operations ......until October 2025, the agency said.
 
President Tshisekedi also chaired the parallel event “RDC 
Digital National 2030” the day before, in which investors
 and businessmen from various sectors participated.
 
The head of state stated that this is a key activity to unlock 
national potential, create millions of jobs and guarantee 
truly shared prosperity.
 
The president expressed his hope that the country will become 
a prosperous digital nation and technology centre in the heart 
of Africa by 2030, taking advantage of investment potential 
such as wealth in rare and critical minerals, essential for 
digital and energy transitions.
 
 
_______________________________________
 
 
 
Angola adds biosphere reserve
 to UNESCO world map
September 27th, 12:42pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Angola officially incorporated today, the Quiçama Biosphere 
Reserve to the World Map of Biosphere Reserves of the 
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural 
Organization (UNESCO).
 
The fact is considered by the Angolan authorities to be 
a milestone in terms of conservation and sustainable 
development, and -- an international recognition of 
the commitment to the protection of biodiversity,
 the promotion of scientific knowledge and the
 strengthening of local communities.
 
The announcement ceremony took place - during the 37th 
session of UNESCO's International Program Coordination 
Council “Man and the Biosphere”, held in Hangzhou, 
China, the Angola Press agency reported.
 
The country was represented at the meeting by a delegation 
headed by the Secretary of State for the Environment, Iury 
Valter de Sousa Santos, the source said.
 
The Quiçama Biosphere Reserve, with an area of 33,160 square 
kilometres, covers ecosystems such as the Mussulo Cuanza 
Complex & Cabo Ledo, as well as areas of high ecological 
sensitivity such as mangroves, lagoons and nesting 
areas for birds and sea turtles.
 
It is also home to emblematic species of Angolan fauna and flora, 
such as the African manatee (Trichechus senegalensis) and 
the savanna elephant (Loxodonta Africana).
 
 
_______________________________________
 


The Patriot in Zimbabwe denounces
 the US's illegal blockade of Cuba 
September 27th, 12:15pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The weekly The Patriot, from Zimbabwe, today denounced 
the US blockade of Cuba for more than 60 years in two 
articles published in its most recent edition.
 
It is time to let Cuba live, 66 years of blockade, headlined one 
of the comments when predicting a new resounding victory, 
for the thirty-third time, in the vote of the United Nations 
General Assembly of the resolution against the siege 
of the Caribbean nation.
 
The Patriot highlighted statements by Foreign Minister Bruno 
Rodríguez when describing the blockade as a flagrant, 
massive and systematic violation of the human 
rights of the people, and the longest 
unilateral coercive measure 
in history.
 
According to this article, Cuba's fight is the battle for survival 
and sovereignty, not only of Cuba, but of the Global South 
and Africa.
 
Meanwhile, in the same edition of The Patriot, the columnist 
Mafa Kwanisai Mafa dedicates his column “Decolonizing 
the Mind” to the unwavering resistance of the Antillean 
country against what he called the criminality ------ of
 the United States.
 
It is a war against a nation's right to choose its destiny, 
at the cost of causing hunger, blackouts and social 
problems, the publication indicated.
 
It later indicates that the blockade is genocide - as it is 
designed to destroy, deprive children of medicine, 
deny electricity to hospitals and obstruct food 
supplies, all crimes against humanity.
 
According to the weekly, Cuba's revolutionary resilience 
makes it extraordinary, especially due to its refusal to 
renounce dignity.
 
The US blockade of Cuba is the most complete act of 
economic war ever imposed on a people. It is illegal, 
immoral, genocidal and universally condemned, 
Mafa emphasizes.
 
Humanity is called – he specified in The Patriot - to support 
Cuba, to demand the end of this economic war and to 
affirm the right of all peoples ---- to sovereignty 
and socialism.
 
 
_________________________________________
 


Cubans and Angolans celebrate
diplomatic relations between 
their countries
September 27th, 12:07pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Cubans and Angolans celebrated today in advance and in 
a unique way, the half century of Angola's independence
 (November 11) and the establishment of diplomatic 
relations between the two countries  on
November 15th, in 1975.
 
A ball game on the grounds of the Milenium hotel, in the 
municipality of Viana, in Luanda, was this time the 
pretext that united the Association of Angolan 
alumni in Cuba, Caimaneros; collaborators of 
the Antex Angola company; members of the 
diplomatic mission of the Caribbean nation 
and Cuban residents.
 
It was a great Cuban party where, according to the president 
of the Caimaneros board of directors, José Álvaro, more 
than the game's scores, the important thing was to 
continue strengthening the ties of brotherhood 
between both peoples.
 
“We commemorate the 50th anniversary of Angola's 
independence .....and the fifty years of diplomatic
relations between the two countries --- it could 
not be otherwise, Cuba is a brother country, 
it is also our land..... for us Caimaneros”, 
he told Prensa Latina.
 
At the meeting, which was attended by the Cuban ambassador, 
Oscar León, the Caimaneros won; at first against Antex, with 
a score of 10 runs to four, and in a second confrontation 
with the collaborators of the Camama general 
hospital (6-5).
 
“What is learned well is never forgotten”, said Álvaro, who pointed 
out that many on the island learned baseball during their years of 
study and commented that this is not the first time they have 
developed team sports activities, well, they already went 
through football and basketball.
 
This Saturday's meeting.. also had another motivation, the 65th 
anniversary of the largest mass organization in the Caribbean 
nation: the Committee for the Defense of the Revolution 
(CDR), which is celebrated on September 28.
 
“It has been the same as if we were in Cuba, even when we 
arrived we drank broth, which is typical at the CDR party, 
just as if we were in our second home”, said the 
president of the Caimaneros.
 
 
______________________________________
 


 Madagascar Protesters Press On 
Despite Minister’s Dismissal 
Amid Blackouts Crisis
September 27th, 5:01am
(teleSUR)
 
Protesters in Madagascar have vowed to continue peaceful 
demonstrations --- despite President Andrey Rojoelina’s 
dismissal of the country’s energy minister on Friday, 
as anger deepens over protracted power and 
water shortages.
 
The capital, Antananarivo, has seen days of unrest, with police 
using teargas and rubber bullets - against crowds. At least five 
people have been killed. Businesses have suffered  looting,
 reflecting frustration over conditions that many say 
have made daily life unlivable.
 
“When we arrived this morning, thieves were still here taking what 
was left,” said a restaurant worker describing Friday morning’s 
scene. “They had knives and threatened and insulted us. 
They told us not to move or they would kill us. We can 
do nothing but cry. They told us they were poor, 
that they had nothing, and that they were
 forced to steal.”
 
The demonstrations have been driven largely -- by students and 
young workers. “We have about 12 hours of power cuts a day,” 
said student Lala Herizo. “That means for 12 hours a day, we
 leave home, go to work, pay taxes, and when we return 
home, still no electricity. The students at Ankatso, are 
protesting so that classes return to normal. Because 
right now it’s been a month that they haven’t 
studied, you know.”
 
Some residents have sought to restore order - by cleaning damaged
 areas. “The city is ransacked and it is our duty to clean it up,” said 
one young man. “I support the demonstrations that are happening 
peacefully. I wish there weren’t so much damage, but looters, 
unfortunately, there will always be.”
 
Protesters accuse security forces of repressing demonstrators 
--- rather than protecting communities from looting. President 
Rojoelina has branded the unrest “acts of destabilization” 
and a “coup d’état,” while saying his government is 
looking for solutions to the blackout crisis.
 
 
____________________________________________
 

Angola and Bahamas establish
 diplomatic relations 
September 27th, 3:51am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Angola and Bahamas signed in New York, US, the Joint
Communiqué on establishment of diplomatic relations 
---- the Foreign Ministry of the African country 
reported today.
 
The signing ceremony, held the day before, was headed 
by the Angolan Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, 
Esmeralda Mendonca, and... by the minister of the 
Bahamas Community sector, Frederick Mitchel.
 
Both parties expressed their hope that this step is only the 
beginning of a path of expanding and strengthening 
bilateral relations and cooperation in a lasting 
and sustainable manner, the source said.
 
The signed document ---- also allowed the creation of a Joint 
Committee for Bilateral Cooperation, which should facilitate 
consultation and cooperation between the two countries 
in various areas.... based on the principles of equality,
 mutual benefit and full respect for the sovereignty 
of each country.
 
Both parties are expected to advance their political, economic, 
commercial, cultural and technical ties, among other sectors 
of common interest.
 
 
_______________________________________



Statement by President Cyril Ramaphosa
on the occasion 
of the General Debate
of the 80th Session Of The United 
Nations General Assembly.
  Friday, September 26th, 2025
(Pan-African News Wire)


President of the 80th Session of the UN 
General Assembly, Ms A. Bareback, 
 
United Nations Secretary-General, 
Mr António Guterres,
 
Excellencies, Heads of State and Government,
 
Ladies and Gentlemen,
 
Eighty years ago, the United Nations was established to save 
succeeding generations from the scourge of war and build a 
peaceful, prosperous and just world ...arising from the 
devastation brought about by global conflict.
 
Through the UN Charter, the nations of the world pledged to 
uphold peace, development and human rights underpinned
 by international law.
 
Now -- more than ever, we are called upon to uphold the 
values and advance the purpose of the United Nations.
 
We are called upon to advance cooperation 
and solidarity between nations.
 
We are called upon to promote multilateralism 
and safeguard the institutions that enable it.
 
South Africa’s engagement in the international sphere echoes 
our domestic imperatives of eradicating poverty, reducing 
unemployment and addressing the root causes 
of inequality.
 
Our foreign policy is guided not only by the needs of our people,
 but also those of the continent of Africa and the Global South.
 
Inspired by our own history... South Africa strives to maintain 
world peace and the settlement of all international disputes 
through negotiation and dialogue, not war.
 
We therefore welcome the strong partnership between the 
African Union and the United Nations in promoting peace, 
security and stability on the African continent.
 
This year, South Africa is honoured to preside over the G20.
 
This is the first time that the G20 Leaders’ Summit will be 
held on the African Continent, the Cradle of Humankind.
 
South Africa’s G20 Presidency, is guided by the 
theme of Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability.
 
As Member States of the United Nations, we 
adopted the Sustainable Development Goals.
 
Many of these goals remain elusive.
 
There are many reasons that hold many countries from 
fulfilling and implementing these development goals. 
One of the reasons is a lack of sufficient financial 
resources.
 
Many countries with developing economies, especially in 
Africa, do not have adequate capital to finance their 
development goals. They are indebted and are 
paying more on debt servicing than they
do 
on health and education.
 
Yet through global solidarity, by having fairer lending rules 
especially for several countries of the Global South, we 
can achieve our shared commitment.
 
Through the G20 process we are working towards consensus 
on how this problem can be tackled, including the reform of 
international financial institutions, particularly multilateral 
development banks, to better tackle global challenges.
 
The multilateral trading system needs to be reformed, as we 
re-confirm that the World Trade Organisation remains the 
only multilateral body capable of managing differences 
and coordinating positions in global trade.
 
Trade is one of the most important instruments to 
mobilise domestic resources for development.
 
It is concerning that geopolitical shocks and unprecedented 
trade policy volatility are destabilising the global economy 
- jeopardising a critical source of development financing.
 
We must redouble our efforts to strengthen
 the link between trade and development.
 
Unilateral trade practices and economic coercion have a 
detrimental impact on many nations. This includes the 
economic embargo against Cuba - which has caused 
untold damage to the country’s economy over years. 
This unfair embargo --- must be lifted.
 
In the midst of global trade uncertainty.... the African continent is 
providing a pragmatic example of constructive collaboration by 
using the African Continental Free Trade Area as an engine for 
sustainable growth and development.
 
This will, with commitment, become the central pillar of 
economic cooperation and integration for our continent.
 
As part of the effort to build more inclusive economies, South 
Africa’s G20 Presidency has launched an Extraordinary 
Committee of Independent Experts --- on Global 
Wealth Inequality.
 
This committee, chaired by Professor Joseph Stiglitz 
a Nobel laureate, will deliver the first-ever report 
on global inequality ...to G20 leaders.
 
Climate change is an existential threat.
 
We are failing future generations by our 
inability to reduce global warming.
 
Climate change is reversing economic growth and 
development gains in many countries, especially 
in the Global South.
 
Although Africa carries the least responsibility for 
climate change, many countries on the continent 
experience much of its harshest effects.
 
Extreme weather events --- like floods and droughts 
are driving food insecurity, displacing populations, 
causing damage to infrastructure and 
leading to the unnecessary loss 
of livelihoods.
 
Member States must honour their undertakings and 
commitments in line with the guiding principle of 
common but differentiated responsibilities and
 respective capabilities.
 
The Secretary-General recently reported that global 
military expenditure has reached historic highs,
 just as the world is falling behind on its core 
development promises.  
 
We are now building weapons - when we 
should be building social infrastructure.
 
We are fighting wars that cause death and destruction, 
when we should be fighting poverty and developing
 the livelihoods of vulnerable people.
 
We must act decisively to silence all guns, everywhere, 
to realise the goal of sustainable development and 
global peace.
 
As we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the UN, 
the relevance of this institution - and multilateral 
processes for the maintenance of international 
peace & security is being wilfully undermined.
 
There is an increasing reliance on unilateral military 
action ------- in contravention of international law.
 
The United Nations Security Council has proven to be 
ineffective in its current form and composition in 
carrying out its Charter mandate to maintain 
international peace and security.
 
South Africa remains deeply concerned by the erosion 
of the credibility of the Security Council and its failure 
to ensure accountability and uphold international law.
 
As the security and humanitarian situations in the 
Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sudan, Gaza 
and elsewhere deteriorate, it is a matter of 
grave concern that there are countries 
that continue to violate international 
law and defy UN resolutions and 
rulings ------ from bodies like the
 International Court of Justice.
 
The establishment of the Hague Group, and the Madrid 
Group aim to reaffirm the primacy of international law, 
promoting accountability and ensuring support for a 
just peace.
 
We cannot - and should not - accept that members of this 
Organisation continue to violate without consequence 
the Charter that we have all agreed to uphold.
 
Therefore, as nations that have pledged to uphold the UN 
Charter, we have the ultimate responsibility to ensure 
and protect the rights of the Palestinian people to
 self-determination.
 
Consistent with the case that South Africa brought before
 the International Court of Justice --- there is a growing 
global consensus that Israel is committing genocide
 in Gaza.
 
Just last week, the UN Independent International Commission 
of Inquiry found that Israel is responsible for the commission
 of genocide in Gaza.
 
As Palestinians continue to face genocide 
and famine --- we have a duty --------- to act.
 
We welcome the historic High-Level Meeting held yesterday 
on the Two-State Solution yesterday in this chamber. This 
reflects the determination of the global majority that 
Palestinians deserve a peaceful state alongside 
a peaceful Israel.
 
The long overdue announcement by an increasing number of
 countries to recognise the State of Palestine is testament 
to this determination.
 
We have a responsibility as the Member States of the United 
Nations to reaffirm the right of self-determination of the 
people of Western Sahara.
 
The very first resolution of the United Nations General 
Assembly, in January 1946, called for the elimination 
of atomic weapons.
 
The resolution was passed shortly after the catastrophic
 use of atomic bombs --------- on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
 
Decades later, we have not made significant progress in the 
fulfilment of the commitment to nuclear disarmament.
 
In 2026, South Africa will be presiding over the first 
review conference of the Treaty on the Prohibition 
of Nuclear Weapons.
 
This Treaty reaffirms that there is no greater assurance of non-
proliferation than the complete prohibition of nuclear weapons.
 
This year, we celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the Beijing 
Declaration and Platform for Action as a roadmap for the 
achievement of gender equality.
 
South Africa reaffirms its unwavering commitment to 
the empowerment of women and their full, equal and
 meaningful participation in all spheres of life.
 
This milestone reminds us of our shared responsibility
 to advance human rights, dignity and justice for all.
 
The right to development must be central to the policies 
and operational activities of the UN and its specialised 
agencies, programmes and funds.
 
It must be at the core of the policies and strategies of the 
international financial and multilateral trading systems.
 
As we celebrate 80 years of the United Nations, we must 
seize the opportunity to build a better UN --- for the next 
80 years.
 
What is needed now is a stronger and more capable 
United Nations, based on a renewed commitment 
to its founding principles.
 
We must invigorate the negotiations on Security Council 
reform at the Inter-Governmental Negotiations in the 
General Assembly, including by initiating text-
based negotiations.
 
The Security Council must be more accountable, 
representative, democratic --- and effective 
in executing its mandate.
 
We look forward to working with the Secretary-General, on 
the UN80 Initiative to ensure that our Organisation works 
more effectively and efficiently.
 
Mandates given by Member States must be implemented 
and the necessary structural changes and programme
 realignment must be implemented across the 
UN system.
 
In the face of the decrease in funding to the United Nations 
to fulfil its mandate, the UN80 Initiative is important to 
maintain the integrity of the multilateral system and
 to uphold international law.
 
Lastly, I am reminded that our collective membership of 
the United Nations is our shared humanity in action.
 
The UN at 80 compels us to reflect on our collective 
achievements, and to chart a way forward in 
building an Organisation that is able to 
address our common challenges.
 
We must rise to the occasion and do our utmost together 
to ensure the political, economic and social freedom 
of all humanity.
 
We must reaffirm that freedom is indivisible and that 
the denial of the rights of one person diminishes 
the freedom of us all.
 
We must reaffirm the equal dignity and worth 
of every person and must therefore leave 
no-one behind.
 
 
I thank you.
 
 
_______________________________________
 
 
 
Madagascar woke up under curfew 
in the face of violent protests
September 26th, 6:30am
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
Madagascar woke up today under a strict curfew 
decreed by the government -- due to the violent 
protests in the capital, Antananarivo, and in 
other cities throughout the country.
 
The president of Madagascar, Andry Rajoelina, 
condemned the violence and asked the 
population to remain calm in the face 
of the demonstrations ....that left an 
unknown number of people injured.
 
The protests are due to the lack of various services 
including water and electricity, but were repressed 
by the police with tear gas and rubber bullets, and 
while some looting of businesses and damage to 
property occurred.
 
According to the authorities.... the curfew in the capital 
was imposed on Thursday ---- and will continue today.
 
Meanwhile, Rajoelina is in New York participating in the
 high-level segment at the 80th UN General Assembly.
 
On the other hand, local media reported that many of the 
facilities and homes attacked belonged to senators and 
other political figures in the country.
 
Andry Rajoelina won the 2023 elections for a third term 
with 59 percent of the vote, according to the electoral 
commission of this island state in the Indian Ocean 
located southeast of the African continent.
 
 
___________________________________


African Union - for revitalizing 
conflict prevention capacity
September 24th, 3:12pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of Angola and incumbent of the African Union (AU), 
João Lourenço, today called to revitalize the continent's conflict 
prevention and mediation capabilities.
 
During a meeting of the organization's Peace and Security Council, 
with the participation of heads of State & Government attending 
the UN General Assembly in New York, the president said that 
this is an important step ---------- to end a phenomenon that 
hinders progress.
 
Lourenço commented that, along this path, the president of the AU 
Commission, in consultation with the Ombudsman for Peace and 
Reconciliation in Africa, was authorized to appoint a High-Level 
Group composed of five eminent African experts to review the
 organization's Peace and Security Framework.
 
This work, ongoing for four months, will allow us to 
reflect.... and make relevant decisions, he noted.
 
The Angolan president pointed out that, to confront the scourge 
of conflicts, it is necessary to seek greater coordination and 
functional harmonization between the AU, economic 
communities and regional mechanisms, in order to 
achieve uniformity of thought and action - for 
effective results.
 
He considered it essential... to increase contributions to the Peace 
Fund of the continental organization, designed to promote greater 
appropriation that grants more autonomy in the approaches and 
perspectives for solving problems.
 
“This meeting represents an opportunity --- to strengthen 
commitments, renew strategies and reaffirm our focus 
on peace as an imperative and essential good for 
the people of the African continent”, said 
the president.
 
He added that tensions not only undermine peace and stability, 
but hinder, condition and delay economic and social progress,
 weaken democratic institutions -------- and multiply 
humanitarian tragedies.
 
“We are all aware of this reality, in the face of which, we must 
adopt a constructive and courageous political stance, based 
mainly on national and African interests, to make convergent
and decisive efforts to end African conflicts” he emphasized.
 
He insisted on the need for firm and immediate actions, based 
on urgent African initiatives that do not depend on third 
parties outside the continental reality.
 
Africa maintains conflicts in Libya, the Sahel, eastern Democratic 
Republic of the Congo, and Sudan, just to mention the main ones.
 
 
________________________________________________
 
 
 
President of Malawi
acknowledges
 his
defeat in elections
September 24th, 12:33pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The current president of Malawi, Lazarus Chakwera, 
acknowledged his defeat in the elections held last 
Sunday against former president Peter Mutharika
... in a speech broadcast today on national TV.
 
Chakwera said the vote is the result of the collective will for a 
change of government, and therefore, it is fair that defeat be 
recognized out of respect for the wishes of the citizens 
and out of respect for the constitution.
 
According to published data, former President Mutharika, 
85, received more than 60 percent of the vote.
 
These elections were held, after the Constitutional Court 
annulled the results of the 2019 race for what were then
 classified as massive irregularities.
 
In these elections, the 229 seats in Parliament and 
509 local council seats will also be renewed.
 
Malawi is a country marked by an economic crisis, with 
high inflation and little foreign currency for the 
acquisition of fuel abroad.
 
Before the vote, numerous interviewees advocated for an 
improvement in the living conditions of the people, due 
to good management by the elected president.
 
 
_________________________________________
 
 
 
“YES” won the constitutional 
referendum -------- in Guinea
September 24th, 12:14pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The government of Guinea confirmed today the victory of 
the 'yes' in the constitutional referendum held this 
Sunday, after almost 90 percent of the votes 
were counted.
 
Ibrahima Khalil Condé, Minister of Territorial Administration and 
Decentralization, said this Wednesday that the ‘yes’ won 89.38 
percent of the ballots, with a participation rate greater than
86.4 percent.
 
It was also reported that 96.55 percent of the votes have 
been confirmed as valid, so the draft Constitution
 is adopted ...provisionally.
 
Condé also highlighted that these provisional results will 
be transmitted to the Supreme Court to carry out their 
examination, proceed with their validation... and 
proclaim the results.
 
The referendum involves holding presidential elections, after 
several postponements, and does not prohibit members of
 the military junta from standing in the elections.
 
For their part, opposition sectors that previously called for a 
boycott of the referendum indicated that it is intended to 
legitimize the coup d'état that brought the current 
military junta to power.
 
 
________________________________________



Lumumba expressed her hope for 
further cooperation between 
Russia and Africa.
September 23rd, 3:08pm
(Izvestia.ru)
 
Patrice Lumumba's daughter, politician Juliana Lumumba, 
emphasized the importance of cooperation between 
Russia.. and African countries. She made this 
statement at the Food Quality and Safety 
conference on September 23.
 
"It's important for me --- that Russia and Africa are together, but 
there's a nuance: Russia is one country, and Africa has 54 
countries. When we talk about Africa, we need to 
consider its diversity. For example, in Central 
Africa, 60% of the population.. is under the 
age of 25, and it is rich in raw materials,"
 Lumumba shared.
 
She also commented on Congo's potential accession 
to BRICS and the country's cooperation with Russia.
 
"Congo is not currently a member of BRICS, but we have a lot to 
share. We need to cooperate, and we need to know where 
Russia wants to go with us. We need joint programs and 
projects and we need to get to know each other better. 
We need to build a foundation for young people, and 
we know what young people in Congo want, but
we don't know what they want in Russia. We 
need to engage young people. We need to 
be modern," the politician said.
 
Lumumba also shared that it was a great 
honour for her to attend the conference.
 
"I am very proud --- to be here at RUDN University, which also bears 
my father's name, and it is an honour for me and my entire family. 
You know, Russia was the first country to protest after my 
father's assassination, in 1961. This is a symbol not only 
of solidarity but also of people who value freedom and
truth. As long as we have people --- who believe in 
these values, they will not disappear," she said.
 
Russian President, Vladimir Putin, on September 3rd, stated that 
cooperation with the Congo --- is one of the priorities in Russia's 
foreign policy activities. The Head of State called the country a 
reliable and time-tested friend and partner of Russia. He 
pointed out --- the republic's constant participation in 
Russia-Africa meetings, at the level of presidents.
 
Humanitarian Transformation: Russia Prepares
 ------ to Open New Russian Houses in Africa.
Rossotrudnichestvo is already present in 
twenty-two countries on the continent.
 

 
____________________________________________


 
WYF Assembly ’25: Building Bridges 
Between Russia and Africa 
Through Education
September 23rd, 2:53pm
(teleSUR)
 
At the World Youth Forum (WYF) Assembly’25, Inga Koryagina, 
a professor at Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, 
delivered a powerful, insightful presentation emphasizing 
the transformative power of education as a bridge 
between Russia and Africa.
 
Her address brought into focus the record-breaking growth in 
student participation, expanded quotas for African learners, 
and ambitious initiatives designed to strengthen long-
term cooperation.
 
Koryagina -- has played a pivotal role in shaping Russia’s 
engagement with African institutions. Her work bridges 
academia, policy, and global collaboration --- making
her 
a leading advocate for student mobility, joint
research, and cross-cultural exchanges.
 
In her presentation, Koryagina highlighted one of the most 
significant achievements of the past year — a 2.5-fold 
increase - in student participation. The number of 
students engaged in educational opportunities 
surged from approximately 12,000 to nearly 
30,000 --- demonstrating Africa’s growing 
interest in Russian academic programs.
 
This remarkable rise was attributed to increased outreach 
efforts, strategic partnerships, and extensive media 
coverage in more than 15 African countries.
 
Koryagina also revealed that for the academic year 2025/26, 
Russia has allocated 4,816 state quotas, representing a 
70-slot increase compared to the previous year. These 
quotas support undergraduate, postgraduate, and 
doctoral programs, in addition to preparatory 
faculties that equip international students 
for success in Russian universities.
 
This initiative is helping build a robust pipeline of African 
scholars across critical sectors such as engineering, 
medicine, IT, and the social sciences.
 
The talk -- outlined efforts to expand collaboration through: 
Joint research centres tackling shared global challenges; 
Corporate departments integrating industry expertise; 
Alumni associations for longer graduate engagement; 
and Double degree programs ----- to enhance 
competitiveness. These measures ---- aim 
to create a comprehensive cooperation 
system beyond traditional education.
 
Koryagina emphasized the strategic role of media in 
strengthening partnerships. Coverage has spanned 
West Africa.... (Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, Côte 
d’Ivoire, Togo), East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, 
South Sudan, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Mauritius), 
Southern Africa (South Africa, Zimbabwe,
 Zambia), and North Africa (Tunisia).
 
Media activity focused on education quotas, student exchanges, 
graduate achievements, business summits, and cultural events
 — all of which have boosted trust and increased applications 
from African students.
 
Underlining the impact of these initiatives, Koryagina summarized 
the results: 2.5× growth in student participation; 4,816 education 
quotas for 2025/26; and media coverage in 15+ African nations
 
Looking ahead, she stressed the importance of scaling up student 
mobility programs, fostering alumni networks, & launching more 
joint projects ....to sustain this momentum.
 
Closing, Koryagina reaffirmed her core message: 
“Education ------- is the best tool for building a
strong bridge 
between Russia and Africa.”
 
Her presentation left attendees with a sense of optimism, 
envisioning a future where African graduates emerge 
as globally competitive leaders, empowered to 
contribute to development both at home 
and abroad.
 
 
_____________________________________


The UN welcomes progress, in 
peace processes - in the DRC
September 23rd, 10:52am
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The Secretary General of the United Nations, António Guterres, 
welcomed the progress in the peace processes in the 
Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC),
 radio Okapi reported today.
 
During a meeting with Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi, 
both parties addressed the ongoing initiatives, marked by
 the commitment of the African Union, the signing of a 
declaration of principles facilitated by Qatar, and a 
peace agreement between the DRC and Rwanda, 
mediated by the United States.
 
They also analyzed the situation in eastern Congolese and the 
role of the UN Stabilization Mission in the DRC (Monusco) in
 the implementation of recent agreements, Radio 
Okapi reported.
 
At the meeting, held the day before in New York, prior to the 80th 
session of the General Assembly, Guterres reiterated the UN's 
support... for all peace initiatives.
 
During his stay in the city, President Tshisekedi met with the US 
Presidency's senior advisor for Africa, Massad Boulos, to 
discuss the follow-up to the agreement signed in 
Washington on June 27 of this year.
 
According to the account of the Congolese Presidency on the 
social network X, Boulos reaffirmed the US' commitment to 
collaborating with the DRC, to achieve lasting peace in 
the east of the country.
 
Both sides also addressed the strategic alliance between the two 
nations and reaffirmed the desire to realize it in the near future, 
which should attract as many US investors as possible.
 
As part of his parallel program, the Congolese president 
participated this Monday in an event organized by the 
Permanent Mission of the DRC to the UN, dedicated 
to raising awareness ------- about the genocide 
perpetrated in the country, for economic 
purposes (Genocost), for more than 
three decades.
 
Diplomats, scientists, lobbyists and an important representation 
of the Congolese diaspora were at the event, where Tshisekedi 
stressed that too often these tragedies have been minimized 
and even denied, therefore, it is necessary to break this 
silence ------- and demand international recognition.
 
This is an essential requirement for restorative justice and lasting 
peace, said the president, who argued that the DRC's request is 
based on irrefutable legal foundations and a set of reports 
that document the magnitude, systematicity, and 
criminal intent.. of the atrocities committed.
 
The head of state urged support for the establishment of a solid 
international mechanism for the truth and legal classification 
of crimes, with the capacity for investigation, preservation 
of evidence and judicial cooperation.


 
_________________________________
 
 
 
Portuguese and Spanish on 
the Cape Verde skyline
September 23rd, 10:16am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Multilingualism, interculturality, citizenship, is the motto of 
an international event that will take place in Cape Verde
 on November 11 and 12, it was known here today.
 
Praia, the capital of Cape Verde, will host the IV International 
Conference of Portuguese and Spanish Languages (CILPE), 
the largest meeting for reflection and analysis on the 
present and future of both languages.
 
The Organization of Ibero-American States - for Education, 
Science and Culture (OEI) is the promoter of the meeting, 
in association with the University of Cape Verde, and the 
International Institute of the Portuguese Language (IILP).
 
Other entities such as the Camões-Institute of Cooperation 
and Language, IP of Portugal; The Cervantes Institute of 
Spain and the Guimarães Rosa Institute of Brazil, are 
part of the event.
 
The fourth edition of the conference will bring together various 
actors, including specialists and authorities in the field, to 
reaffirm the role of languages ----- in the integration of 
Portuguese and Spanish speaking countries, with 
Africa as a key axis, the OEI highlighted.
 
The debates will put on the table the strategic role of Cape Verde 
as an example of interculturality and linguistic coexistence, as 
well as a cultural bridge between Africa, the US and Europe, 
being in the heart of the Macaronesia region, along with 
the Canary Islands, the Azores and Madeira.
 
Lisbon (2019), Brasilia (2022) and Asunción (2023) 
were the previous headquarters of CILPE.
 


_____________________________________________



Zambia sings praises of Cuba
September 22nd, 3:39pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The coordinator of the Fidel Castro chair, from the Midlands 
University of Zimbabwe, Mafa Kwanisai, condemned the 
US' economic blockade of Cuba, as announced today 
by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
 
Kwanisai commented that -- it is ''the most complete economic war 
ever imposed on a people'' and described it as 'an 'illegal, immoral, 
genocidal and universally condemned siege''.
 
According to the source himself, the researcher highlighted the 
''unwavering resistance of Cuba'', whose people, he said, 
suffers one of the most brutal and persistent acts of 
imperialist aggression in modern history.
 
''The recent Cuban Report on the Blockade (May 2025) exposes the 
devastating impact of this genocidal policy, while celebrating the 
global rejection of US coercion'', he said.
 
Likewise, he pointed out that the US government ''fears the example
 of Cuba as an alternative model, where education is free, medical 
care is universal .....and sovereignty - is not for sale''.
 
But Cuba has not given up, he highlighted, and indicated that ''it 
has deepened its ties with China, Russia, Venezuela and Africa''.
 
Also, he added, ''Cuba has embraced South-South cooperation and 
plays a leading role in organizations such as the Non-Aligned 
Movement (NAM), CELAC, ALBA and the African Union, 
all of which have condemned the blockade''.
 
''What makes Cuba extraordinary is not only its survival, but 
its refusal to renounce its dignity in the face of imperialist 
domination ------ that can only be defeated through 
international solidarity, collective resistance 
and the construction of an alternative 
world order'', he stated.
 
For Pan-Africanists, Latin American revolutionaries and Asian 
progressives, the battle of Cuba --- is our fight, he declared.
 
The columnist also asserted that demanding the end of the 
blockade is ''a call for justice, as it involves the defense of 
the right of nations to chart their own path, free from the 
suffocating yoke.. of North American hegemony''.
 
 
______________________________________
 
 
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, today: 
expressed its condolences for the sudden death 
of the African country's ambassador to Cuba, 
Ayele Lire Jijamo.
September 22nd, 9:58am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
An official statement highlighted the diplomatic career of 
Jijambo, who previously represented Addis Ababa in 
Barbados, the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, 
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Saint
Kitts and Nevis and the Bahamas.
 
The Foreign Ministry conveyed its condolences to family, 
friends and colleagues of the deceased ambassador, 
while promptly communicating the time and place 
of the funeral.
 
Ethiopian foreign ministers of state Hadera Abera and Berhanu 
Tsegaye, also mourned the death of the prominent diplomat.
 
On the other hand, the Cuban Embassy in Ethiopia, in a note 
of condolence posted on its social networks, highlighted 
Jijamo's role in strengthening the historic ties of 
friendship and cooperation -------- between 
both countries.
 
He extended his solidarity.. to the Ethiopian 
government and people, in this time of pain.
 
 

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!




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