Africa Page

Ghana beat Trinidad and Tobago

in Unity Cup football

May 31st, 11:21am

(Prensa Latina)

Ghana beat Trinidad and Tobago 4-0 today and took

third place in the Unity Cup soccer match for

Afro-Caribbean teams.

The Black Stars relied on veteran captain Jordan Ayew, who

opened the scoring in the sixth minute with a shot from

outside the area and assisted Razak Simpson... to

double the lead in the 12th.

The Leicester City striker gave another assist for the third,

scored by Mohammed Fuseini, in the 41st minute, and

the score was closed by Jabari St Hillaire's own

goal in the 58th minute.

For Simpson and Fuseini they were their first

goals...... with their country's national team.

Ghana did not have several important players ----- including Iñaki

Williams, from Spanish Athletic Bilbao; Mohammed Kudus, from

West Ham; Antoine Semenyo, from Bournemouth, and Thomas

Partey, from Arsenal, these last three - in the English League.

''It's always good to look to the future and some of the guys

took advantage of their opportunities and did really well,''

winning coach, Otto Addo said, after the game.

Later, the Unity final will be held in the British town

of Brentford --- after a 21-year hiatus, between

Jamaica and Nigeria.

___________________________________________

''Paramilitaries'' bomb hospitals and

neighbourhoods in El Obeid, Sudan

May 31st, 7:13am

(Prensa Latina)

With heavy artillery, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF, English)

today bombed 2 hospitals and residential neighbourhoods

in the city of El Obeid, in the state of North Kordofan,

central Sudan.

At least six people died and others were injured

as a result of the attack, a military source

confirmed --- cited here by the media.

The administration of the Al-Daman hospital, affected by

the bombing, announced its departure from service

''until further notice'' - as doctors make efforts to

contain a cholera outbreak in Sudan's capital.

The director general of the World Health Organization, Tedros

Adhanom Ghebreyesus, he expressed his ''horror'', for the

attack and urged to stop attacks against healthcare

facilities ----- and protect all infrastructure and

its personnel.

The cholera epidemic spreads in Khartoum, where dozens

of citizens died this week --- and doctors face difficulties

treating patients amid supply shortages and cholera's

rapid spread.

At the time, the director of the International Rescue Committee

in Sudan, Etizaz Yousif, stated that the country is on the brink

of a widespread public health catastrophe.

For its part, the World Food Program announced that one of

its facilities was hit and suffered significant damage - due

to frequent bombing by the RSF.

____________________________________________

They reaffirm commitment to inclusive

participatory dialogue ---- in Ethiopia

May 31st, 4:46am

(Prensa Latina)

The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission (ENDC)

reaffirmed its commitment --- to ensuring that the

ongoing process is inclusive and participatory

during a federal level consultation meeting

that continues today.

Chief Commissioner Mesfin Araya --- underlined the

determination of the ENDC, in close collaboration

with interested parties, to meet the aspirations

of the Ethiopian people and find lasting

solutions -------- to the country's

fundamental challenges.

Araya explained - that the incorporation of the Regional State of

Tigray in the national dialogue and the meeting of contributions

from the diaspora are fundamental priorities for the Commission.

He reiterated the willingness of that institution to play its role

in fostering a debate --- that addresses the root causes of the

country's problems through broad participation and inclusion.

He urged -- religious leaders, elders, political parties, media

organizations, civic and professional associations, public

figures, influential people and democratic and law

enforcement institutions --- to contribute

significantly to the success of this

historic national dialogue.

For its part, commissioner Ambaye Ogato said the time

has come for Ethiopia and its citizens to take bold and

courageous steps to resolve the nation's complex

challenges ---- through an inclusive debate.

Ogato called on the entire population to take over the process

----- by contributing their knowledge, experience and time.

The ENDC, established on February 23, 2022, is responsible for

facilitating dialogue on the country's most pressing issues.

Since its inception, it has carried out extensive preparatory

activities, including agenda meeting in different regions

and social segments.

_____________________________________________

Links with Italy -- and confrontation

with Mpox marked Ethiopia week

May 31st, 4:45am

(Prensa Latina)

The success... of the working visit by Prime Minister

Abiy Ahmed to Italy, as well as the health actions

implemented... in response to the detection of

the Mpox virus, marked the week that ends

today in Ethiopia.

Ahmed, leading a high-level delegation, completed a

work agenda last Monday that included a meeting

with Pope Leo XIV, official conversations with

his Italian counterpart, Giorgia Meloni, and

evaluations of joint projects with the

Webuild Group, a company that

specializes in the design and

construction of large

infrastructures

Ethiopian Finance Minister Ahmed Shide stated that in

extensive talks with the Supreme Pontiff both sides

agreed to strengthen collaboration on education,

world peace and bilateral and multi-

lateral commitments.

The Vatican also reaffirmed its commitment to

supporting the educational development of

the African country, he stressed.

Shide, in the case of the meeting with Meloni, stated that

it focused on key bilateral issues that highlighted the

growing collaboration between the two nations,

with special emphasis on continued Italian

support for economic reforms, energy

development ------- and overall

Ethiopian growth.

He highlighted -- the constant increase in Italian aid to the

development of Addis Ababa in recent years. In addition,

he revealed that both governments signed agreements

in several critical areas, such as green development,

urban infrastructure and macroeconomic reform.

The African minister revealed that investment was also

a central issue in the talks, about which he stressed

that the favorable investment climate in the country

represented an opportunity........ to increase

Rome's participation.

Both heads of government reaffirmed their commitment

to promoting cooperation in sectors such as energy,

infrastructure and finance, he added.

On the other hand, Ahmed met with the executive director

of the Webuild Group, Pietro Salini. During the debate,

the African leader invited the Italian company to

expand its investments in priority sectors

such as housing, energy, mining and

fertilizer production.

Salini expressed the European company's willingness to

undertake large-scale projects aligned with Ethiopia's

development goals.

Another important health issue was the intensification of

efforts by sector authorities to control the spread of the

Mpox virus detected - so far - only in the town from

Moyale, Oromia region, with 3 confirmed cases.

___________________________________________

Angola tries for the second successful

day in the swimming championship

May 31st, 3:54am

(Prensa Latina)

The Angolan national swimming team will launch today

at the Alvalade pool in Luanda to seek a successful

second day in the international championship of

the sport called Independence Tournament.

The day before, the team won 20 medals, of which six

were gold, five silver and nine bronze -- placing them

in second place by country, after Namibia (9-5-2) &

followed in the South Africa medal table, which on

the first day of competition obtained three gold

medals, three silver metals and one bronze.

For Angola, the most prominent figure -- was the young Santiago

Guimarães, only 14 years old, who took home 3 gold medals

for his performance in the 50 meter butterfly (27.32), in the

100 metre backstroke (1:08.12) and in the 100 metres

freestyle (56.07).

The Independence Tournament began this Friday with the

participation of around 150 swimmers from Angola,

South Africa, Namibia, Mozambique, Zambia,

Portugal and Cape Verde.

The competition runs until tomorrow and is

dedicated to the 50 years of national

independence.

The host country has a team of 26 swimmers

in the women's and men's categories.

This is the third international competition organized by

the Angolan Swimming Federation in three years,

the most recent - the All Africa Championships

in 2024.

___________________________________________

African Union Issues Urgent Warning

Cholera Surges Across 20 Countries

May 30th, 2:05pm

(teleSUR)

The African Union’s public health agency has sounded a critical

alarm over a surging cholera outbreak, with 127,409 cases and

at least 2,597 deaths recorded so far this year, marking one of

the worst epidemics in recent memory.

Ngashi Ngongo, Executive Director of Africa CDC, confirmed that

efforts are underway to coordinate a continent-wide response

to tackle the rapidly spreading disease.

We are scaling up our response to a

fast-spreading #cholera outbreak.

Drawing on lessons from the #mpox response ---- we’re working

with partners to activate a coordinated, cross-border strategy

focused on surveillance, lab systems, vaccine access, and

health system resilience. See… pic.twitter.com/pZlUi5Ivqv

— Africa CDC (@AfricaCDC) May 27, 2025

“The situation is highly concerning. We need a unified strategy,

not isolated country responses—just as we did with mpox,”

Ngongo stated.

Between January and May 2025, cholera’s mortality rate ---- has

reached 2%, surpassing the critical threshold set by the World

Health Organization (WHO). The disease ---- caused by

contaminated food and water, has thrived in areas
facing humanitarian crises, water shortages,
and poor sanitation infrastructure.

Africa CDC reports that four countries—DRC, Angola, Sudan, and

South Sudan—account for 83% of infections and 92% of deaths.

Sudan is experiencing an especially dire crisis, with 70 fatalities

and 2,119 infections reported in just two days in Khartoum,

amid ongoing civil war and healthcare system collapse.

Africa CDC is deploying specialized teams, medical supplies,

and financial support to affected nations. Inspired by the

2022–2023 mpox containment model, the agency is

pushing for cross-border interventions and

collaborative national strategies to halt

a further spread.

Though treatable, cholera remains highly lethal without timely

care, causing rapid dehydration and death within hours —

especially in communities lacking health services.

With children and adults alike at risk, Africa’s ability to combat

this outbreak hinges on expanding access to clean water,
sanitation, and emergency medical care, all of which

remain structural challenges for many regions.

______________________________________

Deadly Crash in Libyan Desert

Claims Lives of Sudanese
Migrants

May 30th, 1:51pm

(teleSUR)

Eleven Sudanese migrants and a Libyan driver were killed

in a fatal collision between their vehicle and a truck - 90

kilometres north of Kufra, Libyan authorities confirmed.

The victims included three women and two children,

while a 65-year-old man and his 10-year-old son

were injured in the crash.

This tragedy follows another deadly incident, earlier this
month, when seven Sudanese migrants died after their
vehicle broke down, leaving 34 stranded for days in
the desert.

Libya, plunged into chaos after the 2011 NATO-backed uprising

that ousted Muammar Gaddafi, has become a major transit

point for migrants fleeing war and poverty in Africa

and the Middle East.

The country’s porous borders with Chad, Niger, Sudan, Egypt,

Algeria, and Tunisia have enabled human traffickers to

exploit instability, smuggling migrants into Libya

in hopes of reaching Europe.

Since Sudan’s civil war erupted in 2023, thousands have fled

to Libya, escaping violence, displacement, and famine, as

the conflict continues to devastate the region.

_________________________________________________

Russian Ambassador announces work

on creating a Russian military base

in the Central African Republic

May 29th, 10:30pm

(Izvestia.ru)

Russia -- hopes to reach an agreement with the Central African

Republic on the deployment of a military base on its territory,

the project is at the stage of interdepartmental elaboration,

and the parties are discussing mutually acceptable

conditions for its implementation. This was

reported to Izvestia by the Russian

Ambassador to Bangui...

Alexander Bikantov.

"The issue of creating a military base in the Central African

Republic --- is being worked out through the Ministry of

Defense of the two countries. Mutually acceptable

conditions for project implementation, are

considered. We hope that in the future

the parties will be able to reach the

necessary agreements,"

Bikantov said.

In March, Russian Deputy Defense Minister, Yunus-Bek

Yevkurov, paid a working visit to the Central African

Republic: he met with President Faustin-Arcange

Touadera - and held talks with the Minister of

National Defense and Army Reconstruction

of the Central African Republic --- Claude

Rameau Biro. During the visit --- it was

agreed to expand cooperation in the

defense and economic spheres.

The Russian side confirmed that it is ready

to further assist the CAR authorities

in strengthening security.

______________________________________

Personalities receive medal for

50 years of independence

of Angola

May 29th, 11:07am

(Prensa Latina)

The president of Angola, Joao Lourenco, today presided over

the ceremony for the presentation of commemorative medals

for the 50 years of national independence, which on this

occasion will receive almost 700 personalities.

The decoration ceremony began this Thursday and took place

in two sessions, during the morning and afternoon, due to

the high number of people --- who received the award for

their contributions to the country in different spheres.

In total there are 698 who were recognized, some posthumously,

with the commemorative medals of the Independence class,

and Peace and Development; of which 331 will be awarded

this Friday in the continuation of the tributes.

This second award ceremony began with the distinction to

María Eugenia Neto, widow of Dr. António Agostinho Neto,

who was the first president of the country.

The writer was also not on the first award date, which took

place on April 4, and during which 247 personalities

received the award for their contribution to the

liberation and development of the country.

Likewise, on this occasion the career of guerrillas, nationalists,

artists, communicators and athletes was highlighted, among

whom were names such as Adérito Bermiro Correa, Alves

Bernardo Baptista “Nito Alves”, and musical bands like

Jóvenes de Prenda and Kissanguela.

_____________________________________________

Cuba's support --- for the liberation of

Southern Africa stands out in Angola

May 29th, 11:48am

(Prensa Latina)

Various personalities today highlighted Cuba's role in the

liberation of Southern Africa and the fall of apartheid,

during an international conference in Luanda,

capital of Angola.

The Minister of Telecommunications, Information

Technologies and Social Communication - Mário

Oliveira, who was in charge of the inauguration

of the Conference on the Role of Frontline

Countries in the Total Liberation of

Southern Africa, highlighted the

fundamental military actions

and Cuban support.

In particular he referred to the Battle of Cuito Cuanavale,

whose triumph on March 23, 1988 marked the definitive

turning point for the establishment of the agreements

that led to the liberation of Namibia and accelerated

the fall of apartheid.

General António dos Santos França “Ndalu”, for his part, he

highlighted the prominence of the Armed Forces for the

Liberation of Angola (Fapla) in combative actions

with the support of Cuba and the then Union

of Soviet Socialist Republics.

It meant that Cuito Cuanavale not only involved the withdrawal

of South African military forces from Angolan territory and the

maintenance of its integrity, but was crucial to Namibia's

independence.

Former Mozambican president Joaquim Chissano also referred

to the relevance of frontline countries for the overthrow of the

colonial and racist apartheid regime that prevailed in South

Africa, just as he highlighted the help of nations such as

Algeria and Cuba.

Chissano highlighted the actions of countries such

as Tanzania and Zambia, which prevented the

expansion of apartheid in Angola

and Mozambique.

The Conference, which took place this Thursday, at the

Talatona Convention Centre, is part of the celebrations

for the 50 years of Angola's independence and was

sponsored by the Ministry of Telecommunications,

Information Technology & Social Communication,

with the support of Ediciones Noviembre.

The minister of the branch - in his inaugural words,

emphasized that his purpose is not only to honour

the actions and heroes of the past, likewise, it is

proposed to call for collective consciousness

and look to the future, he said.

The meeting, held in hybrid format (in-person and virtual),

included panels dedicated to the Role of Frontline

Countries; Internationalist Military Articulation

in the Liberation of Southern Africa; and the

Role of Diplomacy... in the Liberation of
the Southern African Countries.

The event brought together representatives of liberation

movements and veterans of the fight against apartheid,

government representatives and diplomats, historians,

researchers and academics from Africa and other

countries such as Mozambique, Namibia,

Russia and Cuba.

In addition to the panels, the event included the screening

of documentaries, a photographic exhibition and the sale

of books, essentially focused on the conference theme.

____________________________________________

South African Reserve Bank

reduces repo rate

May 29th, 11:13am

(Prensa Latina)

The Monetary Policy Committee of the Reserve Bank of

South Africa (SARB) reduced the repo rate by 25 basis

points, with effect from tomorrow the 30th.

This reduces the preferential rate

on bank loans to 10.75 percent.

The repo rate, specialists recall, is an interest rate

used by central banks to manage liquidity and

control inflation.

It refers to the rate at which commercial banks can

borrow short-term funds from a central bank, with

a commitment to repurchase it at a slightly

higher price.

As stated today by the governor of the SARB, Lesetja

Kganyago, when presenting the statement from the

Monetary Policy Committee, in the future the

previous inflation forecasts... have been

revised downwards.

This reflects the lower starting point, as well as an

assumption of a stronger exchange rate and

lower global oil prices, he added.

These factors offset the pressure on fuel costs arising

from the fuel tax increase announced in the Budget.

In addition, our previous forecast included VAT

increases, which have now been cancelled,

the official added

In South Africa, inflation returned to

below 3.0 percent in April 2025.

“Now that inflation has slowed, we have the opportunity

to ensure lower inflation... at low cost. This scenario

illustrates that opportunity”, Kganyago continued.

While the inflation outlook appears favorable, the

Monetary Policy Committee considered an

adverse scenario, illustrating the

upside risks.

Thus, South Africa's (PIB) Gross Domestic Product

projections were cut and growth is expected to

stand at 1.2 percent this year, increasing to

1.8 percent by 2027.

The global environment remains difficult, making domestic

reform.... crucial to achieving strong growth. The main

contribution of the SARB - is to achieve price stability,

and in that aspect there is some room to consolidate

lower inflation & pave the way towards sustainably

lower interest rates, Kganyago said.

“Other measures that would improve economic conditions

include achieving a prudent level of public debt,

continuing to renew and strengthen network

industries, reduce managed price inflation

and keep real wage growth in line with

productivity gains”, he concluded.

___________________________________________

Guides on Labour Migration 2025

approved in South Africa

May 29th, 10:41am

(Prensa Latina)

The Council of Ministers of South Africa approved the

so-called White Paper on the National Labour

Migration Policy (PNML) 2025 for immediate

implementation.

As stated at a press conference in this capital by the

Minister of the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni,

this represents a significant step in the regulation

of the movement and employment of foreigners

in South Africa.

“Its goal --- is to strike a balance in various areas, including

addressing South Africans' expectations for job prospects,

given the increase in unemployment and the perception

that foreigners restrict access to the labour market”,

the official explained.

The new Policy introduces quotas on the total number of

foreigners documented with work visas who can be

employed in important economic sectors such as

agriculture, hospitality and tourism, as well as

construction, among others.

The provision, he explained, complements other government

interventions on the issue such as the application of a list

of sectors in which business visas cannot be granted

to foreigners.

It also welcomes amendments -- to the National Small Business

Act 1996 (Law 102 of 1996), as amended, to limit the creation

of small, medium and micro businesses, and trade in certain

sectors of the economy by foreigners, added the Minister.

__________________________________________

Between achievements and

challenges, the Sahrawi

cause advances

May 29th, 9:51am

(Prensa Latina)

The achievements of the Polisario Front are innumerable,

of great significance on the path towards the supreme

objective of achieving total independence of the

Sahrawi people and Western Sahara, stated

today the ambassador to Argentina,

Mohamed Ali.

The representative of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic

(RASD) is a central figure at the II International Conference

of Journalists and Media in Solidarity with the Sahrawi

Cause that takes place in Buenos Aires and that

concludes on Friday.

Among the main achievements in this fight against colonialism,

first in Spain and now against which the monarchy of Morocco

intensifies, Ali cited in statements to Prensa Latina the

creation of the Polisario Front and the subsequent

proclamation of the SADR.

The formation of the brave and combative Sahrawi army

(ELPS), with great mobility and innovation in guerrilla

warfare, that it has inflicted severe defeats first on

Spanish colonialism and then on the Moroccan

and Mauritanian occupier ----- is another

achievement, the diplomat noted.

Besides, he referred to «the solid and firm organization that

allowed the unity of the people to solidify and make the

Sahrawis who fled their land have the possibility of

enjoying the services more basic, such as food,

health and education, which is bilingual,

Arabic and Spanish.

Western Sahara is the only Spanish-speaking Arab country and

along with Equatorial Guinea the only two Spanish-speaking

nations in Africa, he noted and thanked Cuba for its

educational cooperation to ensure the teaching

of Cervantes' language, mainly among

children and young people.

This collaboration was fundamental in the literacy campaign,

which has been one of the greatest achievements of the

SADR that placed the Sahrawi nation at the forefront

in this sphere, on the continent.

An active diplomacy that has obtained recognition from the

Sahrawi State by 84 countries, of which 29 are Latin

American, is another success. Today the SADR is

a full member of the African Union, meanwhile,

for the UN and the EU, the Polisario Front, is

the legitimate representative of the people

of Western Sahara who have the right to

self-determination, Ali asserted.

In the judicial field where we deal with illegal plundering

by the Moroccan occupier and third countries that buy

what was stolen ---- such as phosphates, fishing, and

agriculture - he noted - we are also in the battle for

control of our airspace.

______________________________________

Israeli ambassador expelled

from a university in Senegal

May 28th, 3:09pm

(Prensa Latina)

In repudiation of the Zionist aggression against Palestine,

Senegalese students booed Israeli ambassador Yuval

Waks and expelled him from the grounds of Cheikh

Anta Diop University, it was reported here today.

The Tel Aviv diplomat was supposed to attend a conference

on international relations yesterday but was forced to leave

the university campus by students carrying banners with

slogans such as “Free Palestine” and “No to genocide.”

Local media reported today that the students opposed their

university being used as a platform to justify Israeli actions

and demanded an end to the war in Gaza and equal rights

for the Palestinian people.

Political observers note that Wednesday marks 600 days

since the Zionist military invasion of Gaza, which has

devastated the Palestinian enclave, killing over

54,000 people ----- in a barbaric act of

ethnic cleansing.

_____________________________________________________

Cuban General Awarded Medal

for Angolan Independence

May 28th, 3:06pm

(Prensa Latina)

President Joao Lourenco -- decided to award the

commemorative medal for the 50th anniversary

of Angolan independence in the Independence

category, to Cuban Army Corps General

Leopoldo Cintra Frias, the

Presidency announced.

This is the second Cuban to receive this recognition, as

Cuban Brigadier General Rafael Moracen Limonta was

previously posthumously awarded with the Peace &

Development Class medal among the first group of

148 people to receive it.

General Moracen, a Hero of the Republic of Cuba, received

Angolan nationality in 2014 for his contribution to that

country’s independence, a service record in which

he highlighted the military training he provided

to those fighting Portuguese colonialism.

Meanwhile, Army Corps General Cintra Frias, who served as

Minister of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Cuba from

2011 to 2021, served on an internationalist mission in

Angola at various times and led decisive combat

actions for the preservation of the country’s

independence and integrity.

He served as Commander of the Southern Front of the

Southern Troop Group during the confrontation with

the South African Army’s invasion in 1975–1976

and assumed command of the Cuban Military

Mission in the African nation, twice.

Among the military actions in which he participated

were the Battle of Cuito Cuanavale and the

Southwestern Front offensive in Angola.

He holds the honorary title of Hero of the Republic of Cuba,

and, according to the local press, granting him the

decoration -- is a fair recognition not only of his

contributions to the Angolan cause, but also

of those of the Caribbean nation’s people --

to Angola’s independence & sovereignty.

____________________________________________

South Africa at peace initiative

meeting for Congo and Sudan

May 28th, 3:01pm

(Prensa Latina)

South Africa's Minister of International Relations and

Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, is participating in a

new round of meetings in Kampala, aimed at

achieving peace in the Democratic

Republic of the Congo.

According to a statement from the Foreign Ministry, the 12th

Summit of the Regional Oversight Mechanism of the Peace,

Security and Cooperation framework for the Democratic

Republic of Congo seeks to address the structural

causes of instability and armed violence -- in the

east of the country and the Great Lakes region.

The meeting allows for the analysis of a set of shared

commitments between the Democratic Republic of

Congo, neighbouring countries -- and regional and

international actors involved in peace initiatives,

the statement details.

The Regional Oversight Mechanism, the Ministry recalls,

is the main decision-making body of the Security and

Cooperation Framework and meets annually to

assess implementation of the commitments.

The Foreign Ministry explains in the document that

the 12th summit is being held in the context of the

deteriorating political, humanitarian, and security

situation in eastern Democratic Republic of the

Congo since the beginning of 2025.

The situation has been aggravated, by the resurgence and

continued territorial expansion of the March 23 Movement

(M23)/Congo River Alliance, with the support of “some

external actors,” which has led to numerous deaths,

humanitarian crises, and increased tensions in
the region, the Ministry adds.

The Regional Oversight Mechanism of the Peace, Security and

Cooperation framework for the Democratic Republic of Congo

is expected to adopt an action plan that will revitalize the

Security Framework established since its adoption

in 2013.

Participants at the meeting in the Ugandan capital

will also reflect.. on the current conflict in Sudan

& the complex political situation in South Sudan.

_________________________________________________

South African government works

to reduce the cost of living

May 28th, 2:57pm

(Prensa Latina)

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa assured that

the government is working to alleviate the growing

pressure of the cost of living on households, with

special attention to protecting the most

vulnerable citizens.

During an oral response session in the National Assembly

(Parliament), the president emphasized - that combating

poverty and the cost of living is a fundamental priority

for the Government of National Unity (GNU) and

a central pillar of the Medium-Term

Development Plan.

However, in his remarks, Ramaphosa acknowledged the

severe financial pressure faced by many South Africans,

overwhelmed by an increase in the cost of the average

food basket of nearly 40% above inflation in

recent years.

The President highlighted the framework of the country’s

macroeconomic policy, including a target inflation rate,

as a key factor in stabilizing prices and reducing the

burden on consumers.

In this regard, he reported progress, such as the fact that food

price inflation fell from 12,7% at the end of 2022 to 2,2% in

March 2025, while headline inflation, which averaged

4,4% in 2024, moderated further, reaching 2,7%

in March 2025.

To further protect low-income households, he added,

the government maintains VAT exemptions on

essential foods such as corn flour, whole-

wheat bread, rice, milk, eggs, and

other staples.

_____________________________________

Ethiopian PM’s visit to Italy

described as a success

May 28th, 11:24am

(Prensa Latina)

The recent working visit of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy

Ahmed to Italy, during which he met with Pope Leo XIV

and his counterpart, Giorgia Meloni, was a success,

an official source affirmed on Wednesday.

Ethiopian Finance Minister Ahmed Shide stated that

in extensive talks with the Supreme Pontiff on

Monday, both sides agreed to strengthen

collaboration on education, world

peace --------- and bilateral and

multilateral engagements.

Shide underscored that the Vatican also reaffirmed

its commitment to supporting the educational

development of the African country.

The finance minister specified that --- in the case of the

meeting with Meloni, it focused on key bilateral issues

that highlighted the growing collaboration between

the two nations, with emphasis ---- on Italy’s

continued support for economic reforms,

energy development, and overall

Ethiopian growth.

He stressed the steady increase in Italian development

assistance to Addis Ababa in the last few years. He

also revealed that the two governments signed

agreements in several critical areas, such as

green development, urban infrastructure,

and macroeconomic reform.

Investment was also a leading theme in the talks, on which

the minister underscored that the favorable investment

climate in the country represented an opportunity

to increase Rome’s involvement.

____________________________________________________

Former President Kabila meets

social leaders in DRC’s Goma

May 28th, 10:12am

(Prensa Latina)

Joseph Kabila, former president of the Democratic

Republic of Congo (DRC), meets on Wednesday

with several social leaders in Goma, North

Kivu, described as citizen consultations.

His collaborators said the meetings, taking place in

an area controlled by the rebels of the Congo River

Alliance – the March 23 Movement (AFC/M23), aim

to gather the concerns and proposals of several

sectors in response to the security challenges

in eastern DRC.

Kabila expects to talk with politicians, administrators,

and security agents, Goma authorities, socio-cultural

groups, religious leaders, women’s organizations,

the Federal Electoral Commission, traditional

chiefs, and community leaders.

At the end of these consultations, the former

president plans to hold a press briefing

in Goma.

Kabila arrived in Goma on Sunday in defiance of the

Kinshasa Government and the Senate’s decision to

remove his parliamentary immunity - which would

allow prosecutions to be brought against him for

alleged complicity with the Rwanda-backed

AFC/M23.

__________________________________________

Worrying increase ---- in

cholera cases in Sudan

May 28th, 9:13am

(Prensa Latina)

Cholera cases in Sudan increased worryingly in

recent days, medical sources announced here.

The non-governmental organization Doctors

Without Borders (MSF) reported the day

before --- a new outbreak that has

already infected some 2,500

persons, including

172 fatalities.

MFS also said, that the disease caused the main

damage here in Khartoum and nearby Odurman,

yet cases were detected in other provinces.

According to Sudan’s coordinator for MSF, Joyce

Bakker, the epidemic began earlier this month

and has grown in strength, with too many

patients already in critical condition

arriving at health centres.

The MSF official called for international assistance

including new temporary health facilities, water

and hygiene programs.

Cholera is a rapidly developing and highly contagious

waterborne infectious disease, that causes diarrhea

and leads to severe dehydration and possible death

--- within hours when left untreated, as reported by

the World Health Organization on Wednesday.

_______________________________________________

CERF allocates 750,000 dollars

to fight cholera in DRC

May 27th, 11:08am

(Prensa Latina)

The Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) has allocated

750,000 dollars to support the fight against the spread of

cholera in Maniema and Tshopo provinces in the

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), media

reported on Tuesday.

The disease, which has surpassed 1,000 cases since early

2025 and has spread to several provinces, was declared

an epidemic in seven provinces.

In particular, cholera cases have increased in the

health zones of Kindu, Alunguli (Maniema), and

Opala (Tshopo).

The financial support went to the United Nations Children’s

Fund (UNICEF), the World Health Organization (WHO), and

its partners to improve access to safe water, sanitation
infrastructure, and hygiene services.

It also expected to contribute to strengthening the prevention

and control of epidemics and ensure rapid treatment of

affected populations, Actualite CD reported.

The report also refers to Bruno Lemarquis, the humanitarian

coordinator in the DRC, who stressed that the activation of

the cholera prevention framework demonstrates the

relevance of this approach: intervene in time to

contain the epidemic, protect communities,

and avoid the aggravation of the health

and humanitarian situation.

___________________________________

UNHCR to close offices

in Angola --- this year

May 27th, 10:31am

(Prensa Latina)

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees...

(UNHCR) will close its offices in Angola before the

end of 2025, local press reported on Tuesday.

UNHCR representative in the country, Emmanuelle Mitte,

stated that the UN agency’s withdrawal should take

place as of the last quarter of this year, which is

due to the shortage of funds, caused by the

decrease in donations and funding,

Jornal de Angola reported.

Mitte explained that the global situation of financial limitations

significantly affects UNHCR’s actions to assist refugees and

its full operation, but assured that the closure of its offices

will not affect the support to the Angolan Government in

assisting more than 56,000 refugees in the country.

UNHCR is active in Angolan territory, mainly in the provinces of

Luanda and Lunda-Norte, where more than 6,000 Congolese,

displaced by violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo

(DRC) in 2017 and settled in Lovua, remain in the latter.

The representative on Angolan territory specified that the

embassies of the United Kingdom, France, and China

- visited that locality to evaluate the refugees’

current situation and subsequently...

define funds for their assistance.

___________________________________

South Africa: Financial management

of biodiversity protection improved

May 27th, 9:43am

(Prensa Latina)

South African National Parks (SANParks)

launched its first Biodiversity Offset

Bank ---- in the capital.

In a statement, the government organization emphasized that

biodiversity offsets are a viable and innovative financing

mechanism for the expansion and management of

protected areas. “SANParks’ collective efforts to

finance and secure the future of our nation’s

extraordinary biodiversity are evident in

this unique opportunity to expand our

network of protected areas -- while

driving economic development,”

the statement noted.

The SANParks Biodiversity Offset Bank, the first of its kind in

South Africa, offers the country the opportunity to expand

and improve protected area management and help

developers achieve their environmental, social,

and governance objectives, while supporting

the State ----- in promoting inclusive and

sustainable economic growth.

SANParks’ Vision 2040 focuses on building sustainable,

inclusive protected areas designed to intentionally

benefit both people and the environment, the

document highlights.

Its cornerstone is the development of living megascapes:

large areas where conservation catalyzes social and

economic development.

__________________________

Lavrov says: Russia will continue to support

African countries ---- in the field of security

May 26th, 2:45pm

(RT.ru)

Russia will continue to provide assistance to African

countries in ensuring food security and security.

This was stated on May 26, by Russian

Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

He noted that, for many years, Russia has supported the African

peoples in their struggle for freedom and independence, as

well as actively contributed to the formation of young

states and their socio-economic development.

Lavrov stressed that the Russian side will continue to

strengthen the position of Africa as an original and

influential centre of global development.

"We will continue to provide assistance to interested African

countries -- in strengthening their defense capabilities and
countering terrorism, ensuring food and energy security,"

the Minister said, at a reception ------- on the occasion

of Africa Day.

Lavrov said on March 6, that Russia will continue to increase

its assistance, in particular, in training military personnel in

Africa, strengthening law enforcement agencies to

increase the ability of African friends to fight the

threats of terrorism, drug trafficking, and

organized crime in the region.

Earlier, on February the 11th, Russia's Presidential Special

Representative for the Middle East and Africa, Deputy

Foreign Minister, Mikhail Bogdanov, told Izvestia

that Moscow is ready ---- to help strengthen

African states' own anti-crisis potential.

He added ------ that Russia conducts annual

training courses for African peacekeepers.

____________________________________________

Conference of the African Insurance

Organization meets in Ethiopia

May 26th, 11:39am

(Prensa Latina)

The Deputy Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Temesgen Tiruneh,

today.. opened the 51st Annual Conference and General

Assembly of the African Insurance Organization (AIO)

with delegates from 93 countries, key players,

industry leaders and development partners.

Under the theme: “Balancing the Accounts: Africa’s debt

problem: Why national debt affects insurers,” the event

..running until May 28, marks an important milestone

for insurance business on the continent.

With the dynamic business environment and rich cultural

heritage of Ethiopia as a backdrop, the conclave

provides a vital platform ----- for innovation,

collaboration and strategic discussion

in the insurance industry.

Emerging trends, regulatory developments and market

opportunities are some of the topics that will be the

focus of discussions.

The AIO Conference is widely recognized as Africa’s

premier insurance gathering ------- and provides

opportunities for networking and knowledge

sharing with the aim of promoting financial

inclusion ------- and economic growth.

__________________________________________

At least 40 killed in attack

by gunmen in Nigeria

May 26th, 10:55am

(Prensa Latina)

New attacks by armed groups in eastern Nigeria killed

at least 40 people, local media reported here today.

This time the attack occurred over the weekend in

localities of Katim-Lamido, in the state of Taraba,

according to the Christian Association of

Nigeria (CAN).

The attackers killed people and burned their homes,

according to CAN officials who deplored these

criminal acts that terrorize the north of the

African country.

Dominic Hassan, community leader of Karim-Lamido,

confirmed the fact --- and affirmed that the groups

were armed with guns and other weapons, and

arrived on motorcycles at dawn.

Official media added that in the last 16 years,

inter-community clashes --- and attacks by

''Islamist'' groups, have displaced more

than two million people --- and killed

thousands of civilians in Nigeria.

Local authorities also point out that these attacks are

often related to the activities of groups such as Boko

Haram --- which collect taxes from fishermen and

farmers, and --- when they are unable to pay,

they kill or kidnap them and then demand

ransom from their families.

In northeastern Nigeria, several armed factions are

active, taking advantage of the lack of security
in the region --- for their profit motives.

Recently - about 40 farmers and fishermen were killed

in an attack in the Borno region, according to reports.

_____________________________________________

Burundi and DRC reassess Addis

Ababa Framework Agreement

May 26th, 10:53am

(Prensa Latina)

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Burundi

reassess the Regional Oversight Mechanism (ROM)

of the Peace, Security, & Cooperation Framework

for the DRC & the region, local press informed

on Monday.

Evariste Ndayishimiye, President of Burundi and Chair of

the ROM, visited Kinshasa on Sunday, and met with his

Congolese counterpart, Felix Tshisekedi, with whom

he addressed the issue, a press release from the

Presidency of the DRC reported.

Ndayishimiye and Tshisekedi reassessed the Addis Ababa

Framework Agreement signed by 11 countries more than

a decade ago, a few days before the ROM summit

scheduled for May 28 in Kampala, Uganda.

The two presidents did not make any statements to reporters,

but the Burundian Presidency specified that this trip was

part of the consultations launched in preparation for

the meeting, during which ----- Ndayishimiye will

hand over the reins of the ROM.

This 12-year mechanism aims to contribute to maintaining

stability and promoting development in the region.

The Addis Ababa Framework Agreement was signed by 11

states and 4 international and regional institutions: the

United Nations (UN), the African Union (AU), the

International Conference on the Great Lakes

Region (ICGLR), & the Southern African

Development Community (SADC).

__________________________________

Ethiopia seeks cooperation with

Brazil in aviation & technology

May 24th, 9:28am

(Prensa Latina)

The Deputy Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Temesgen

Tiruneh, reported today on social networks that

he held productive conversations with several

companies in São Paulo, on cooperation in

the aviation and technology sector.

Tiruneh, who participated in the Second Brazil-Africa

Dialogue on Food Security, Combating Hunger and

Rural Development held from May 20 to 22 in the

capital of Brazil, visited the Embraer facilities,

leading manufacturer of commercial, military

and agricultural aircraft.

The South American company expressed great

interest in collaborating with institutions in

the Ethiopian aviation sector, he said.

He also toured the São José dos Campos Technological

Innovation Park, which supports startups (emerging

companies) and promotes innovative projects

in aerospace and technology activity.

He said park representatives praised the Ethiopian

government's focus on technology and innovation.

The African nation, which is driving its digital

transformation through initiatives such as

“Ethiopia Digital 2025”, is committed to

collaborating with similar institutions

to boost the sector, he said.

We agreed on key areas of cooperation to support

Addis Ababa's continued technological

transformation, and all its efforts

in developing its professional

capabilities, he concluded.

_______________________________

Africa Day, moment of

remembrance and

communion

May 24th, 7:18am

(Prensa Latina)

The commemoration of Africa Day --- to be celebrated

this May 25, is a moment of memory and communion

among all Africans, said today, the Chairman of the

African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf.

During an event held at the headquarters of the continental

organization, Youssouf referenced this year's UA theme

“Justice for Africans and Black people through

reparations” which certainly brings memories

and a story to the surface, often painful,

ancient and contemporary.

He specified that justice has not yet been done, for the crimes

committed during periods of slavery and colonization against

tens of millions of Africans, and that reparations are delayed

in coming.

However, Africa does not languish in the wounds and bitterness

of the past, he asserted. “Africa continues to make sacrifices

again and again, to free itself from the horrors of conflict,

underdevelopment and wars”, he stressed.

He explained that his administration, through the aspirations of

its people translated into the Charter of the Organization of the

African Union (OUA), founded on May 25, 1963, and then in the

Constitutive Act of the African Union, it took a position, with

strength and determination, on the international stage.

With more than 2.5 billion hectares of arable land in 2050 on the

continent, countless mineral resources, inexhaustible water

sources and exceptional sunshine, Africa ----- has all the

assets.. to make the dream of all citizens come true,

he stressed.

“Today --- we will not see Afro-pessimism. The continent is

advancing by leaps and bounds and the macroeconomic

progress of many African countries is cited as an

example”, he continued.

African women and youth --------- are taking their destiny into their

hands, organizing, demanding and acting to improve their daily

lives, while governments invest in infrastructure and develop

realistic and pragmatic policies, he mentioned.

He assured that Africa can no longer be ignored. Its membership

in the G20 is not only a deserved participation, but it is a global

recognition of the importance of the continent, he considered.

He recalled the primary duty of Member States -- to develop a

viable value chain on the continent through a value addition

transformation process. Our outstanding African Free

Trade Area, is the market destined to absorb the

African goods, he added.

The president of the AU Commission warned that international

geopolitics -------- is carried out at the expense of Africa and

influential global powers do not pay adequate attention

to us, or to our ambition as a continent.

Before concluding, he highlighted that “panafricanism was built

by our ancestors --- not only on the basis of the legitimate
aspirations of our people, but more broadly... about a

series of strategic objectives that reflect critical

thinking: for the future of this continent and

its people”.

___________________________________

Prime Minister of Ethiopia, visited

technology companies in France

May 24th, 5:27am

(Prensa Latina)

The Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, visited several

industries in France, focusing mainly on technology and

artificial intelligence, as part of his working visit, the

Office of the African Head of Government

reported today.

Ahmed - and the accompanying high-level delegation -

toured Station F, a private sector business incubator

for technology startups, & the largest development

centre for startups - in the world.

The source specified that Addis Ababa's startup ecosystem

is still in its early stages, but demonstrates great potential

driven by a young and technologically savvy population,

as well as growing digital connectivity.

In this sense, the government adopted measures to support

innovation through initiatives such as the ''Ethiopia Digital

202'' strategy, which aims to create an enabling

environment for startups --- especially in

the financial technology, agricultural

technology & e-commerce sectors.

Likewise, a comprehensive legislative framework, known as

the Startups Proclamation, which seeks to establish legal

and institutional support mechanisms for the sector and

addresses key challenges such as limited access to

financing and regulatory barriers.

On the other hand, the African leader visited the Nokia France

headquarters in this capital, a nerve centre for research and

development in 5G and 6G technologies, cybersecurity,

artificial intelligence and optical networks.

The program included a sample of fibre optic sensors,

energy savings and a tour of 5G laboratories, which

provided valuable information for Ethiopia on

innovation, infrastructure development

and intersectoral collaboration.

Finally, the Ethiopian delegation toured the facilities of Thales

Research & Technology (TRT) France, a multidisciplinary

research centre of the Thales Group, which serves as a

cornerstone for the company's global research efforts

with a focus on advanced fields such as aerospace,

defense and artificial intelligence.

These visits -------- underline the importance of international
commitment & knowledge sharing to accelerate Ethiopia's

digital transformation... & position the country as a future

centre of innovation and technology ---- in Africa, the

source stressed.

Ahmed arrived in France on Thursday to complete a working

visit that included bilateral talks with President Emmanuel

Macron -- to review progress in the implementation of the

agreements reached during the visit from the dignitary

to Addis Ababa, in December 2024.

___________________________________

Ethiopia consolidated its position

as an event organizer in Africa

May 24th, 4:54am

(Prensa Latina)

The celebration of important regional and international

events in modern facilities ------ which contributed to

consolidating Ethiopia's organizational capacity,

marked the week that concludes today.

The XX Regional Conference of the International Labour
Organization (OIT) for Labour Base Professionals met

from May 19 to 23 at the African Union Conference

Centre, under the theme “Resilient communities

and healthy environments: Approach to the

Intensive Employment Investment

Program (EIIP)”.

Policymakers, planners, professionals and global

researchers participated to exchange ideas on

policies and programs, that promote decent

jobs and sustainable livelihoods in Africa.

The head of the ILO Department of Employment,

Development and Investment, Mito Tsukamoto,

praised Ethiopia for its leadership -- in

promoting sustainable and inclusive

employment policies across Africa.

Tsukamoto -- speaking to the Ethiopia News Agency -- said

Addis Ababa provided a crucial platform for policymakers

to design inclusive employment strategies. He also

reaffirmed the international organization's

continued support to promote

sustainable job creation

on the continent.

“The PIIE demonstrates, at the community level, how these

initiatives can generate inclusive prosperity and essential

infrastructure”, he noted. He recalled that this initiative

launched in the 1970s was exhaustively tested

and perfected.

He added that these South-South collaboration events, are

essential, and we deeply thank the Ethiopian government

for bringing together key ministers.... to guide Africa's

public policies.

The event was organized by the Ministry of Urban

and Infrastructure and the Ethiopian Highway

Administration, in conjunction with the ILO.

On the other hand, participants in the leading event in Africa

on digital identity “ID4Africa 2025”, held from May 20 to 23,

stated that Ethiopia is an example for the continent by

ensuring inclusive service and accessibility.

Under the motto ''Digital identity at scale: prioritizing use,

accelerating impact'', the event brought together more

than two thousand delegates from more than 95

countries in a program that included: keynote

presentations, round tables, national reports

and an important exhibition that highlighted

cutting-edge solutions for this activity.

Ethiopia was selected to host this year's event at the 2024

Annual General Meeting, held in Cape Town, South Africa.

ID4Africa Chief Executive Joseph Atick cited the country's

strong political will, preparedness of its infrastructure and

commitment to inclusive digital transformation, as key

factors for selection.

ID4Africa is a pan-African movement committed to supporting

African nations in building strong and responsible identity

ecosystems that drive socio-economic development,

digital transformation and humanitarian initiatives.

For the Horn of Africa ---- the Third Water Forum of the

Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD)

was important, focused on strengthening regional

efforts on groundwater governance.

From May 19 to 21, the meeting took place in this capital

under the theme “Building a Platform for Sustainable

Regional Cooperation in Groundwater”, which

brought together representatives of the

member states of the African entity,

international organizations,

technical experts ---- and

development partners.

Key priorities were addressed in the discussions:

harmonizing policies, engaging stakeholders at

all levels, strengthen institutions, and aligning

national efforts with the Authority's Regional

Groundwater Roadmap.

The results of the forum will contribute to IGAD's broader

commitment to integrated source management, climate

resilience and sustainable development in the region.

____________________________________

Brazil and Angola strengthen

commercial ties despite

bird flu

May 23rd, 11:34am

(Prensa Latina)

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva today received his Angolan

counterpart, João Lourenco, within the framework of Africa

Week in Brazil and to debate the fight against hunger and

bilateral cooperation.

Also the reception at the Planalto Palace, capital headquarters

of the Executive Branch, occurred around the II Brazil-Africa

Dialogue on Food Security, Combating Hunger and Rural

Development, which brings together leaders and

representatives of countries from that

continent, in Brasilia.

Lourenço's visit reinforces bilateral ties, in a context of trade

growth, especially in agricultural exports, in the midst of

the alert for an outbreak of bird flu in southern Brazil.

The stay is also marked by the signing of agreements

in key areas such as education, health and tourism.

In 2023, a member of the ruling Workers' Party visited

Angola, where 7 technical cooperation agreements

were formalized.

Since then, trade ties have intensified. Brazilian exports to

the African country increased 20.2 percent in 2023,

reaching $492.7 million - with an emphasis on

products such as sugar, poultry and pork,

and oils.

So far in 2025, between January and April, Brazil exported to

Angola for 190.9 million dollars, an increase of 28.6 percent

compared to the same period of the previous year.

Leading products this year include steel, molasses and

poultry, which alone accounts for 20 percent of total

exports, according to official data.

However, the growing relationship - faces a technical

challenge: the recent detection of the first outbreak

of bird flu on a commercial farm in the state of Rio

Grande do Sul triggered international alerts.

The disease, caused by an infectious virus, that

primarily affects birds, could threaten Brazilian

exports, particularly meat, such as chicken.

Given the situation, the Ministry of Agriculture

implemented emergency protocols, including

inspections within a 10-kilometre radius

around the detected focus.

Until this Thursday, only a single outbreak

was being investigated, with no

confirmed expansion.

The virus had already been detected in 2023 in

wild birds in the state Espiritu Santo (sudeste),

but this ---- is the first time it has affected

commercial production.

Despite concerns, the authorities are confident

that the outbreak will not significantly impact

exports, thanks to transparency, and the

health measures adopted.

_______________________________________________

Sudan rejects US accusations about

''the use'' of chemical weapons

May 23rd, 10:40am

(Prensa Latina)

The Sovereign Transitional Council (CST), which

governs Sudan, today rejected accusations

from the US about the use of chemical

weapons in the war against the

paramilitaries.

CST Information Minister Khalid al Aiser, said in a

statement issued after threats of sanctions from

Washington that such arguments are unfounded

and constitute political blackmail & deliberate

falsification of facts.

The day before, the United States called on the

Sudanese government to cease the use of

chemical weapons, without clarifying

the date or place.. in which they

would have been used.

Likewise, it directed restrictions on US exports to

Sudan and access to US government credit lines.

_______________________________________

South Africa --- advocates at UNESCO

for the fight against gender violence

May 23rd, 8:22am

(Prensa Latina)

The vice president of South Africa, Paul Mashatile --- stood

out at the UNESCO Transforming MEN'talities Conference

in Paris, the importance of international cooperation

and social transformation to confront

gender violence.

In his speech, Mashatile stressed that the world faces

“serious persistent challenges” such as geopolitical

instability, the rise of nationalism & protectionism,

that threaten international cooperation and

sustainable development.

These challenges, he highlighted, require

“inclusive and coordinated responses”.

When addressing gender violence, Mashatile called

this social phenomenon “one of the most serious

current challenges”.

During his speech, the senior official praised the

Transforming MEN'talities campaign -- led by

UNESCO, for its innovative approach that

includes men and boys in the fight

against gender violence (GBV).

South Africa, he recalled --- as a pioneer in implementing

this initiative, has adopted three strategic approaches:

the integration of the program in youth through Higher

Health, research on the social and behavioral factors

that perpetuate GBV, and regional and international
collaboration to expand the impact of the program.

Mashatile also highlighted - how gender violence is

a structural problem, deeply rooted in traditional

notions of masculinity ----- that perpetuate

stereotypes and discrimination.

It has particular repercussions in terms of precariousness,

poverty and social exclusion, so its overcoming must

look at education and the transformation of

mind sets, to build an egalitarian and

resilient society.

Unless we transform the mindset of men in our

communities, we will not be able to build the

society we envision, Mashatile emphasized.

_________________________________

Most victims of murders on

South African farms

are black

May 23rd, 7:47am

(Prensa Latina)

South African Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, stated

here today that the majority of victims of violence

on the country's farms have, historically, been

black people.

When presenting crime statistics for the fourth quarter of

the previous fiscal year, January 2025, Mchunu said the

history of South African farm killings has always been

distorted and reported in an unbalanced manner;

the truth is that the murders in those “places

have always included African people, in

greater numbers”.

The report showed a notable decline in farm attacks,

with six incidents recorded in the fourth quarter,

compared to 12 in the previous quarter.

The victims included 2 farm owners, 2

employees, a manager, and a resident.

Although the South African Police Service - does not

classify crime statistics by race, Mchunu, this time,

in the context of statements made on the subject

by US President Donald Trump... the Minister

revealed that the two farm owners killed

during the fourth quarter, were black

and non-white Africans.

Additionally, the two employees and the farm manager

were also black, while the only resident, was white.

Mchunu reiterated SAPS' commitment to conducting

thorough investigations to ensure justice is served.

In his speech, the official highlighted the central

government's commitment to the National Rural

Security Strategy, whose objective is to create

a safe environment in these areas.

Starting this year, he revealed, “when we publish

first quarter results, we will include other crime

categories in the country.... to offer a more

complete picture”.

Thus, he continued, murders in rural and urban areas,

rather than just on commercial farms as is done now.

On the other hand, the Minister maintained that

although land invasions occur, he rejected the

idea that they reflect a government policy.

Land invasions are, in general, acts of desperation

carried out by Africans who lack land and need

to settle. It's something “sporadic and it's still

illegal, hence the cases and investigations

about it”, he explained.

In his speech Mchunu revealed that --- next week the

Minister of Agrarian Reform and Rural Development,

Mzwanele Nyhontso, will offer clarifications on the

term “land appropriation” which, he maintained,

has recently been misused.

_______________________________

They describe their president's visit

to the US as successful in

South Africa.

May 22nd, 11:25am

(Prensa Latina)

Secretary General of the African National Congress (ANC,

the main governing party in South Africa), Fikile Mbalula,

today described President Cyril Ramaphosa's visit to

the United States as a mission accomplished“.

The head of state... had to go to the White House to meet with

President Donald Trump and clear things up for the first time,

face to face. President Ramaphosa must be applauded for

this, said the party leader.

''He did it for his country. Not, by itself, to protect the interests

of South Africans, and I think -- yesterday's restart meant

diplomatic channels will be opened. Therefore, it is a

great achievement for South Africa'',

Mbalula highlighted.

The day before, Trump repeated in the Oval Office -- before the

press and Ramaphosa, with false graphic arguments or taken

out of context, accusations of alleged genocide against the

white population in South Africa.

We collect refugees from many, many places, if we perceive

that there is persecution or genocide, Trump said, referring

to the recent arrival of several dozen members of South

Africa's white Afrikaner minority, descendants of

Dutch colonisers who arrived in the country

in 1652.

Ramaphosa rejected that nationals who traveled to the

United States are refugees, because they do not fit

the description that they suffer political, religious

or economic persecution.

Although the final result of the South African president's visit

to the United States remains to be seen.. in the opinion of

local analysts, it is possible that it helps at least in part

to smooth things over between the two countries.

______________________________________

Ethiopia seeks access to the sea based

on mutual respect and cooperation

May 22nd, 9:12am

(Prensa Latina)

Ethiopia's strategic search for maritime access is based on

the principle of mutual respect, transparency and regional

cooperation, an official source stated today.

This was expressed by the head of Training and Education of

the Ethiopian Defense Forces, Lieutenant General Yimer

Mekonnen, opening a high-level conference titled

«Navigating Economic and Security Cooperation

between the Gulf and the Horn of Africa:

Opportunities, Challenges and

Future Directions».

Mekonnen stressed that the collaboration between the Horn

of Africa and the Gulf region is not merely diplomatic; It is

a question of regional stability. “Ethiopia seeks not only

assistance, but also - to reliably contribute to peace,

security and development throughout the region”,

he asserted.

For his part, the executive director of the (IFA) Institute of

Foreign Affairs, Jafar Bedru, considered that the call

reflects the collective determination to foster

meaningful commitment, build mutual

understanding and promote a shared

vision for regional peace, security

and prosperity.

Bedru expressed the IFA's commitment to generating practical

research, empowering foreign policy actors and serving as a

centre of thought leadership in diplomacy, peace and

international cooperation.

The theme of this year's dialogue --- is economic and security

cooperation: opportunities, challenges and future directions

summarize both urgency and opportunity, he stressed.

The selection of the topic reflects the growing need to develop

a more coordinated and coherent response to the complex

and interrelated dynamics that make up this geostrategic

maritime space, he continued.

Considering the Red Sea and Gulf of Eden corridor as a crucial

geopolitical interface, he highlighted that, from Ethiopia's

perspective, stability --- the long-term governance and

accessibility of that space is of utmost importance.

He reiterated that Addis Ababa's pursuit of guaranteed

maritime access is not a passing concern, it is a

permanent national imperative, driven by the

vision of security, economic viability and

regional integration.

The third regional consultative forum on the Red Sea

and Gulf of Aden is organized by the IFA and the

War College of the Ethiopian Defense Force.

_____________________________________

Tanzanian authorities block access

to X networking platform

May 22nd, 8:01am

(Prensa Latina)

The Government of Tanzania blocked access to social

network X --- after several cyberattacks on official

accounts --- that published false content

information, official sources pointed

out here today.

Tanzanian police released a statement Thursday

explaining that hackers used their account to

publish pornographic images and fake ads,

including a statement -- about the alleged

death of President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

According to sources, investigations are underway to reach

the culprits and government spokesman Gerson Msigwa,

described the cyberattacks as a minor incident and

assured citizens ------ that Tanzania's digital

infrastructure remains secure.

For political observers, this situation occurs in the midst of

growing political tension in the country ahead of the next

general elections scheduled for October.

In recent days, several foreign activists and jurists...... were

detained at Dar Es Salaam airport upon arrival in Tanzania,

for attempting to attend the preliminary hearing of the

trial against the Tanzanian opposition leader, Tundu

Lissu, prosecuted for an alleged crime of treason

and for publication of false information.

Lissu -- is the president of the Democracy and Progress Party

(Chadema), an opponent of the current government chaired

by Samia Suluhu Hassan.

__________________________________________

ILO praised Ethiopia's leadership

in employment policies in Africa

May 22nd, 5:52am

(Prensa Latina)

The International Labour Organization (OIT) praised Ethiopia

for its leadership in promoting sustainable and inclusive

employment policies across Africa, during the

XX Regional Conference for Labour Base

Professionals, that meets today.

The head of the ILO Department of Employment, Development

& Investment, Mito Tsukamoto, expressed this while greeting

Addis Ababa for the success of the conclave scheduled for

May 19 to 23 in this capital --- under the theme “Resilient

Communities and a Healthy Environment: The Intensive

Employment Investment Program Approach (PIIE)”.

Tsukamoto, speaking to the Ethiopia News Agency, said Addis

Ababa provided a crucial platform for policymakers to design

inclusive employment strategies. He also reaffirmed the

international organization's continued support ---- to

promote sustainable job creation across Africa.

“The PIIE demonstrates, at the community level, how these

initiatives can generate inclusive prosperity and essential

infrastructure”, he noted. He recalled that this initiative

launched in the 1970s --- was exhaustively tested

and perfected.

“These South-South collaboration events are essential, and

we deeply thank the Ethiopian government for bringing

together key ministers to guide the continent's

public policies”, he added.

A joint statement by more than 25 participating African

members highlighted the critical role of employment-

intensive investment programs, and reaffirmed their

commitment to improving skills through technology,

as well as fostering strong alliances for their

effective implementation.

In this regard, Tsukamoto recognized the immense,

although often underutilized, potential of Africa.

She noted the large young African population, the dominance

of the informal sector, limited access to education and

training ---- as important challenges, particularly for

women and marginalized groups, including

people with disabilities.

“It is essential to include vulnerable populations, young people,

people with disabilities and other groups, providing them with

decent jobs that generate income and strengthen the local

economies”, he emphasized.

He specified that it would be aligning perfectly with the

objectives of the regional conference on employment,

as we explore ways to build resilient communities

across Africa.

Despite these challenges, he expressed optimism --- that the

meeting would contribute significantly to expanding decent

work opportunities across the continent.

He mentioned the urgent need for African countries to prioritize

employment-based investment and collaborate effectively to

leverage their human and material resources.

________________________________________

Ugandan Ambassador said that coffee

from the country will fill the shelves

of Russian stores

May 21st, 8:30pm

(RT.ru)

Ugandan coffee will appear in large volumes

in Russian stores, Ugandan Ambassador to

Russia Moses Kawaaluuko Kizige said.

He noted that the country is working on

expanding coffee supplies to Russia.

"We are talking about both green coffee beans and

roasted ones. By September-October of this year

....the volumes will increase significantly,"
TASS quoted him as saying.

Earlier, the Russian Foreign Ministry said that Moscow

is ready to support Burkina Faso in ensuring national

security and solving socio-economic problems.

Russian leader Vladimir Putin, during talks with the head

of Burkina Faso, Ibrahim Traore, announced a twofold

increase in the quota for students from the African

country in 2024-2025.

_____________________________________________

Cuba celebrates Africa Day

May 21st, 2:13pm

(Prensa Latina)

Representatives of Cuban institutions and members

of the diplomatic corps accredited in Havana, paid

tribute today, to African independence fighters,

in the context of the day for Africa Day.

The wreath placed in the capital's African Heroes Park

was remembered on May 25, 1963 when 32 leaders

of States from that continent met in Addis Ababa

to form the Organization of African Unity,

today, the African Union (UA).

At the ceremony, the ambassador of the Republic of

the Congo... and dean of the African Diplomatic

Group in Cuba, Rosalie Kama Niamayoua,

announced upcoming cultural & sports

activities, that will take place in the

Cuban capital, in the context of

the celebrations.

Authorities from the Communist Party of Cuba,

the Government, the Ministry of Foreign

Affairs, and the Cuban Institute of

Friendship with the Peoples...

also attended the activity.

The day of commemoration for Africa Day began

in Cuba on May 15 -- after its inauguration by

the president of the National Assembly of

People's Power (Parliament), Esteban

Lazo, in the National Capitol,

the HQ of the Legislature.

On that occasion, the president of the Council of

State also stressed that the most just causes in

Africa, always had the determined support of

Cuba, at the same time, he highlighted, the

unbreakable ties of brotherhood, and the

cooperation programs established in

various areas, with nations of

that continent.

He took the opportunity to reiterate the gratitude

of this Caribbean nation for the permanent

solidarity received from Africa.

___________________________

Trump insists --------- on

his false accusations

against South Africa

May 21st, 1:25pm

(Prensa Latina)

The president of the United States, Donald Trump,

repeated today -- without evidence -- before his

South African counterpart, Ciryl Ramaphosa,

- accusations of alleged genocide against

the white population in the southern

country, a statement his guest

completely rejected.

Trump received Ramaphosa at the White House this

Wednesday on a visit that captured interest given

the tension between both nations... since the

Republican returned to the Oval Office.

The US president alleged that «many people are very

concerned about South Africa» ....and made false

accusations about a genocide in the country.

«We collect refugees from many, many places, if we

perceive that there is persecution or genocide»,

said Trump, who counted Elon Musk among

those present, the tycoon and ally born in

South Africa.. who became a staunch

critic of his homeland.

The day before, the US Government expressed that

it was “open” ..that the meeting between Trump

and Ramaphosa would serve to restart the

bilateral relationship.

The disagreements between the two countries

escalated with the expulsion in March of the

then Pretoria ambassador in Washington,

Ebrahim Rasool, who was declared

persona ‘non grata’ ........after

criticizing Trump's policies.

In addition, ties deteriorated due to the United States'

reaction to a sovereign law in South Africa, passed

in parliament, regarding land expropriation.

Trump denounced that this law paves the way for

possible human rights violations against South

Africa's white Afrikaner minority, that is, the

descendants of Dutch colonizers who

arrived in the country from 1652.

That is why the Republican administration implemented

a program that will welcome Afrikaners who claim to

suffer “unjust racial discrimination” ---- which will

earn them refugee status in the United States.

On May 12, the Trump Administration received a group of

59 white South Africans who came under that category,

stating that they face discrimination and violence in

their country, which South Africa denies.

Ramaphosa rejected that nationals who traveled to
the United States are refugees -- because they do
not fit the description that they suffer political,
religious or economic persecution.

Another dispute between the two countries has to do
with the position of the United States towards Israel
and against the Palestinian population, especially
in the Gaza Strip. For his actions, Pretoria sued
Israel - for genocide - at the International
Criminal Court.

Ramaphosa arrived in the United States on Monday
and his stay.. will end tomorrow. According to the
South African Presidency -- both dignitaries will
address «bilateral, regional and global issues
of interest».

___________________________________________

Billions --- to be invested in

infrastructure announced

in South Africa

May 21st, 12:31pm

(Prensa Latina)

South African Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana,

announced today that the Government will invest

in the medium term almost one billion rands 56

million dollars) in infrastructure projects.

This amount, he revealed during the presentation of

the third version of the National Budget before

Parliament, is dedicated to boosting the

prospects for economic growth --- and

improving access to basic services.

Increased investment in infrastructure, through Operation

Vulindela ----- will expand energy generation capacity,

modernize and expand the transportation network

and improve the sanitation and water services,

with the aim of stimulating public-private

collaborations, Godongwana said.

While South Africa's debt service costs remain high,

the Minister expressed confidence that by fiscal

year 2025/26, public debt will stabilize at

77.4% of GDP.

That figure, he said, is 1.2% higher than that

projected in the budget presented on March

12, and is mainly due to lower nominal GDP.

According to Godongwana, this represents that, for

fiscal year 2025/26, South Africa will spend around

R1.2 billion a day, servicing debt ($67 million).

This exceeds what the country spends on basic

services such as health, police and basic

education, Godongwana lamented.

____________________________________

Colombia and Kenya ----

reinforce collaboration

on feminist issues

May 21st, 11:59am

(Prensa Latina)

Colombia and Kenya today reinforce collaboration

on issues that make up the feminist agenda of

each of the countries as part of the

implementation of a project in

south-south Cooperation.

According to a statement from the Foreign Ministry,

a technical delegation from the African nation is

currently visiting this capital with the aim of

--- sharing and strengthening institutional

knowledge on prevention mechanisms,

attention to, and judicialization of,

gender-based violence.

As specified in the note - the Ministry of Foreign

Affairs of Colombia highlights implementation

of the bilateral initiative in order to improve

the socioeconomic conditions of women,

identifying opportunities to share legal

knowledge & strengthen regulatory

frameworks in both States.

This project is the result of the agreements

established after the official visit of the

Colombian vice president -- Francia

Márquez, to Nairobi in May 2023.

Regarding the meeting ---- the vice president

highlighted that the exchange experience

is a clear example of how --- from the

Global South --- strategic alliances

can be built that allow progress

in guaranteeing the rights of

women and girls.

“It is a commitment to equality, justice

and peace”, he stressed.

During the visit, both parties will talk, among

others, about issues associated with ethnic

justice models, criminal policy with a

gender focus.

The project between Colombia and Kenya

has two main objectives: institutional

strengthening in both countries to

confront gender-based violence

and the construction --- of a

document: recommending

improvements in access

mechanisms to justice

in Colombia.

It is expected to be an input for decision-

making by the competent authorities,

the Foreign Ministry statement said.

_______________________________________

Nigeria’s Food Crisis Deepens

----- as Climate Change and
Policy Failures Take Toll

May 20th, 12:14pm

(teleSUR)

The once-thriving rivers of northern Nigeria now lie dry

and cracked, exposing the country’s deepening food

insecurity as climate change intensifies and

government solutions fall short.

Nigeria—Africa’s most populous nation—declared a food

security emergency in mid-2023, yet nearly a year later,

the crisis has worsened:

Food inflation -- exceeded 35% in 2024, doubling the

price of staple foods like rice, maize, and tomatoes.

Rivers in Sokoto and Zamfara that once sustained

irrigation now appear seasonal at best.

Erratic rainfall and prolonged drought threaten crops

and livestock, with dehydration worsening among

farming communities.

Dr. Fatima Garba, an agricultural economist, criticized

the lack of preparedness, stating: “Farmers don’t

have modern irrigation, drought-resistant seeds,

or access to real-time weather data. The tools

they need are stuck in research institutes or

policy documents.”

Faced with crop failures and declining incomes, young

Nigerians are abandoning agriculture in favour of:

Urban migration

Informal mining

Joining criminal networks out of desperation

Meanwhile, banditry and herder-farmer

conflicts force many to flee their land

entirely, escalating insecurity.

Despite the government’s 2023 emergency

declaration, food security initiatives have

suffered from corruption, bureaucracy,

and underfunding:

A Kebbi solar-powered irrigation project

ran out of funds halfway.

Resettlement programs in Borno stalled

due to budget constraints.

Private investment in agriculture remains low

due to insecurity and policy uncertainty.

International agencies such as the World Food

Programme and FAO warn that while Nigeria

isn’t classified as a famine zone yet, the

situation is rapidly deteriorating—with

undernourishment rising, especially

among children under five.

Observers see this crisis - as a test of Nigeria’s

political will, with 70% of the population under

30 and 40% of youth unemployed. Experts

advocate --- for strategic grain reserves,

climate-resilient farming, and modern

irrigation systems ------ but trust in

leadership.... is low.

For now, the rains remain late, the fields remain dry,

and millions of farmers wait, uncertain if their next

harvest will even come.

_________________________________

Climate forecasts --- vital to

mitigate droughts & floods

May 20th, 8:16am

(Prensa Latina)

Given the severe droughts and floods in the Horn of Africa,

accurate climate forecasts are essential to mitigate the

situation, protect the population and livelihoods, an

expert warned in an event that concludes

here today.

Ethiopian Water and Energy Minister Habtanu Itefa speaking at

the 70th Great Horn of Africa Climate Outlook Forum (Ghacof

70), he highlighted the vital role of the conclave in fostering

collaboration between scientists and policy makers.

Itefa specified that this year's Ghacof theme, «Climate services

to close the early warning gap», is particularly relevant given

the alarming concern about drought in the region.

He noted that key sectors such as agriculture, food security,

water resources, hydropower, tourism and health are

particularly vulnerable to adverse climate effects

such as droughts and floods.

He stressed the urgency of the forum ---- to provide accurate

scientific guidance to policy makers and ensure the timely

dissemination of crucial weather and climate information,

especially to vulnerable communities.

For his part, the director general of the Ethiopian Meteorological

Institute, Fetene Teshome, echoed these concerns and, for his

part, he emphasized the high susceptibility of the Great Horn

of Africa to climate-related risks.

Teshome explained that intensifying climate change and

seasonal disturbances are causing erratic rainfall,

prolonged dry periods and excessive rainfall,

which increases vulnerability --- and

significantly affects agriculture

and the economy.

«With increasing climate variability and climate change, the

role of climate information in minimizing risks and

optimizing opportunities is undeniable»,

he added.

The two-day forum, an annual meeting organized three times a

year by the Centre for Climate Predictions and Applications

of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, brings

together climate scientists, meteorologists, industry

experts and policy makers from across the region

and beyond.

The platform seeks to improve early warning systems for

climate change, floods and landslides - expected due to

rainfall, between normal and above normal, scheduled

between June and September 2025.

________________________________________

Giant puppet dance in Senegal

warns about climate collapse

May 20th, 7:31am

(Prensa Latina)

A parade of giant artists and puppets today invades the

Senegalese capital and other cities of this African

country with the purpose of raising awareness

among the general public through art about

the dangers of climate change.

This capital corresponds to the third stop on a 20 thousand

kilometre journey that began in Kinshasa, capital of the

Democratic Republic of the Congo (RDC), whose

route will end in August in the Arctic Circle.

Its objective is to raise awareness among the world's

population about the impact of climate change ----

through this theatrical and ecological odyssey.

The biggest show seen in this region is called “The Herds”,

an emotional theatre experience that travels the roads

of different urban centres around the world.

This project arises from the need ------ to create a new

interaction with the ecosystem; We want to inspire

climate action through participatory art and

renew our link with nature, stated the

artistic director of the initiative ----

Amir Nizar Zuabi, of Palestinian

origin and resident in London.

Before “The Herds” Nizar Zuabi created ''The Walk: Little

Amal's Journey'', a giant 3.6 metre high puppet of a

refugee girl - who began her journey on the border

between Syria and Turkey, ending in Manchester,

after traveling through 18 countries.

I am Palestinian, I belong to the town with one of the largest

refugee communities in the world, for me it was very

important to tell the story of Amal, reflected

the artist.

Most of the migrants and refugees I met along the way... are

climate expatriates. The people I met in southern Europe

came from the Sahel because they are fleeing because

of a climate issue; It is the region of the planet where

the climate has collapsed, and they are forced to

embark on endless routes to escape hunger,

explained the set designer.

After visiting the DRC and Nigeria, “The Herds” landed

in Senegal in May with four public shows that toured

different neighbourhoods of this capital.

We collaborate with different artistic collectives, with design,

theatre and performance schools to create the project and

adapt it to each location, adds Nizar Zuabi; here we have
collaborated with more than 80 local artists in the

creation of giant puppets to raise awareness

among the population about the need to

act to save the planet, he added.

Life-size puppets of giraffes, wildebeest, elephants or

gorillas made of cardboard parade through the

streets of the Ouakam neighbourhood in

Dakar, an important stop on your

journey from the DRC

to Norway.

The climate crisis has a devastating impact on Africa,

here is the origin of all the disaster that threatens us,

said Nizar Zuabi.

________________________________________

''Islamist attacks'' cause human

displacement in Nigeria

May 20th, 7:01am

(Prensa Latina)

The increase in Islamist attacks in northeastern Nigeria

has already caused the displacement of some 20,000

people from the town of Marte, local media say.

According to the authorities, the recent invasions by

suspected militants of Boko Haram and its West

African faction, (Iswap), led to armed clashes

that have already left dozens dead.

Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum reported the

deaths of 5 soldiers in a clash with Islamists last

week, after the attackers - briefly - seized a

military base.

According to the official, the nearby town of Rann and

the village of Kalawa Balge, where 23 farmers were

apparently killed, were also attacked.

The sources added that in the last 16 years, Islamists

displaced more than two million people and killed

thousands of civilians.

Likewise, local authorities point out that these attacks have

to do with the activities of Islamist groups... such as Boko

Haram, which collect taxes from fishermen and farmers,

and when they cannot pay, they are murdered or

kidnapped and then demand a ransom from

their relatives.

In northeastern Nigeria, several armed groups operate

and take advantage of the lack of security in the

region... for their profit.

Recently, 40 farmers and fishermen were killed in an

Islamist attack, also in Borno, according to reports.

Currently, the Nigerian army is carrying out armed

operations in that region to try to combat Islamist

groups, an objective that it has not been able to

achieve, so far.

____________________________________

Uruguay insists on replacing

its blue helmets in the DRC

May 19th, 11:53am

(Prensa Latina)

The Minister of Defense of Uruguay, Sandra Lazo, urged the

United Nations ---- to accelerate the replacement of the

country's contingent.. in the Democratic Republic of

the Congo (RDC), which stays delayed today.

Lazo urged the world body to assume its leadership in peace

missions to accelerate the return of the Uruguayan blue

helmet battalion, postponed for several months.

He explained his participation in a forum on blue helmet

missions recently held in Berlin and sponsored by the

United Nations, which included meetings with the

Rwandan Defense Minister, a regime involved

in the armed conflict in the DRC.

''All the steps we take are aimed at ensuring that whoever has to

make decisions, which is the international organization, truly

and effectively complies with that leadership. Let them

dialogue with whoever has to dialogue, but we need

to return our contingent'', he emphasized.

The head of Defense assured that the relief troops are “pronta”

to travel to the African country and fulfill their role which, she

said, “is not being a belligerent party”, but “safeguarding the

civilian population”.

Lazo spoke with the press ------ within the framework of the

celebrations for the 214th anniversary of the Battle of the

Stones, which mark an important victory commanded

by José Artigas --- against royalist troops.

As part of the commemoration, President Yamandú Orsi

presented the military medal Outstanding Valour to the

family of Rodolfo Álvarez -- a blue helmet who died on

January 25 in the Congo during an attack attributed

to the M23 rebel movement.

________________________________

Third Water Forum... of an African

regional entity meets in Ethiopia

May 19th, 10:51am

(Prensa Latina)

Strengthening regional efforts in groundwater governance

is the focus today ----- of the Third Water Forum of the

Intergovernmental Authority on Development

(IGAD) which is hosted by Ethiopia.

The three-day event under the theme “Building a Platform for

Sustainable Regional Cooperation in Groundwater” brings

together representatives of IGAD Member States,

international organizations, technical experts

and development partners.

On their first day... the discussions addressed key priorities:

harmonizing policies, engaging stakeholders at all levels,

strengthening institutions and aligning national efforts

with the African regional entity's Regional Ground-

water Roadmap.

With contributions... from the United Nations Educational,

Scientific and Cultural Organization, the United Nations

Economic Commission for Europe, the World Bank and

Member States, the session underlined the shared

commitment to transforming cooperation in this

area into a cornerstone of regional resilience

and sustainability.

Groundwater resources are crucial for the socioeconomic

development and environmental sustainability of the

Horn of Africa, the regional entity said.

With growing demand driven by climate variability, urbanization

and population growth, the management of shared resources

such as the Dawa, Shabelle and Northern Basin systems of

Ethiopia, it requires coordinated and innovative solutions

that transcend national borders.

The results of the forum, will contribute to IGAD's broader

commitment to integrated source management, climate

resilience and sustainable development in the region.

______________________________________________________

Italian PM Meloni Announces Summit

on African Lobito Corridor Project

May 19th, 9:35am

(teleSUR)

The Western powers seek to secure the world’s

largest reserves of cobalt, copper and coltan.

On Monday, Italian Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, announced a

summit with several countries, focused on the Lobito Corridor

—a major African railway project through which the West

aims to control and exploit African resources.

The conference, scheduled for June 20th, in Rome, will be

co-chaired by Meloni and the EU Commission President

Arsula von de Leyen. It will also include large

transnational financial institutions.

The summit aims to “consolidate the work carried out so far”

and “announce the completion of new projects,” Meloni said

at a meeting on her “Mattei Plan,” which funds initiatives in

African countries.... to curb Mediterranean migration.

She intends to align the Mattei Plan with the European “Global

Gateway” strategy to boost investments in Africa. In the lead

-up to the Rome summit, Meloni expressed support for

“continuing to work with the United States, on the

major Lobito Corridor infrastructure project,”

as well as with Gulf countries.

The Lobito Corridor, is a railway line in the heart of Africa, where

China and the West ------ are competing to secure mineral supply

chains. The project aims to link ports on Africa’s Atlantic coast

with mining regions in the Democratic Republic of Congo and

Zambia, via Angola.

Currently... the corridor consists of a 1,300-kilometre railway line

from the port of Lobito on Angola’s Atlantic coast to the Angolan

city of Luau on the border with the DRC. From there, it continues

another 400 kilometres to the Congolese mining city of Kolwezi,

near the Zambian border.

Plans are in place to build another 800 kilometres of track

to extend the railway into Zambia. The United States

even envisions the corridor eventually reaching

Africa’s eastern coast.

After decades of neglect, the route has regained interest from

Western powers, especially in their race to secure valuable

raw materials. Both Zambia and the DRC hold some of the

world’s largest reserves of cobalt, copper and coltan.

The US&EU support the development of the Lobito Corridor

in an effort to curb China’s growing influence, as Beijing
has already become a key commercial player on
the continent.

___________________________________

They remember the National
Hero of Cuba --- in Egypt

May 19th, 9:05am

(Prensa Latina)

Cubans, Latin Americans and Egyptians commemorated today

in this capital the 130th anniversary of the fall in combat of

the National Hero of that Caribbean island, José Martí,

during the fight for the independence of that country.

Representatives of the diplomatic corps accredited here

gathered in front of Martí's bust, located in Al Horreya

Park, from Egyptian parties and friends of the

Antillean country to remember and honour

the most universal of Cubans.

We meet to pay well-deserved tribute to Martí, for the validity

of his political and social thought and the depth of his ideas,

stated the Cuban ambassador to Egypt, Alexander Pellicer.

He was a man of letters who transcended his time, but he never

hesitated to sacrifice his vocation as an intellectual to fight for

the freedom of the country and was faithful to his ideas until

he died on the battlefield, he stressed.

The diplomat highlighted that with “his physical departure the

great organizer and ideologist of the Revolution was lost (...)

but he left a vast literary and political work, and a legacy

that continues today”.

Martí was a great Latin Americanist and a faithful follower

of the ideas of the Liberator Simón Bolívar and other

heroes of our America, he assured.

Pellicer also detailed his work as a writer, diplomat and

statesman, as well as his desire to unite the Latin

American people ----- in a great homeland.

For his part, Ashraf Mounir, director of the Americas of

the Egyptian Foreign Ministry, highlighted the legacy

of the Cuban hero and the links between both

nations - in various matters.

As an example of the ties, he cited the historical relations

between former president Gamal Abdel Nasser and the

leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro.

_________________________________

South Africa condemns Israeli

actions in the Gaza Strip

May 17th, 10:11am

(Prensa Latina)

South Africa condemned the massacre of 143

Gazans by Israeli troops on May the 15th,

coinciding with the commemoration of

the 77th anniversary of the Nakba,

which marks the beginning of

the displacement of the

Palestinians in 1948.

In a Foreign Ministry statement, Pretoria recalls how as

famine worsens in Gaza - and ceasefire efforts remain

stalled, israel's complete blockade of aid to the Strip

and its restrictions on humanitarian access ---

contravene the State's obligations under

international humanitarian law -- and

the Convention for the Prevention

and Punishment of the Crime

of Genocide.

Israel's persistent and serious violations are part of a broader

strategy to expel Palestinians from its territory, subjecting

them to famine and making the Gaza Strip uninhabitable,

it is added in the document.

Consequently, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlights, South

Africa reiterates its call for an immediate ceasefire and the

resumption of a political process to end the Israeli

occupation of Palestinian territories.

The international community, the text highlights, must act

decisively ---- to hold Israel accountable for violations of

international law, particularly humanitarian and
human rights law.

This includes, he details, the implementation of effective

measures to end the occupation, the policies and

practices of collective punishment in force

and the illegal blockade imposed on

the Gaza Strip.

Furthermore, the South African Foreign Ministry continues,

the practice of arbitrary and administrative detentions,

as well as acts of torture and ill-treatment against

Palestinian detainees, in particular children,

must immediately cease.

These actions clearly violate international humanitarian law,

including the 4th Geneva Convention, and the international

human rights norms and standards enshrined in the

Convention on the Rights of the Child and the

Convention against Torture & Other Cruel,

Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or

Punishments, lists Pretoria.

Thus, he demands, it is imperative that all Palestinian

detainees held without due process be released and

that all victims, especially children ---- receive

adequate compensation and rehabilitation,

in accordance with international law

and justice.

The credibility of the international order - depends on

the consistent application of international law and

accountability for all violations, regardless of

who their author is, the text concludes.

South Africa, in its recent submissions to the International

Court of Justice -- during hearings on Israel's Obligations

in relation to the Presence and Activities of the United

Nations, other international organizations and third

States in, and in relation to, the Occupied

Palestinian Territory, stated that Gaza...

has become an extermination camp.

__________________________________________

South Africa hopes --- the G20 will

boost global economic recovery

May 17th, 9:46am

(Prensa Latina)

The Deputy Minister of the Presidency of South Africa,

Nonceba Mhlauli, stated this week that the main

objective of the Group of Twenty (G20) is to

increase multilateral cooperation for the

recovery of the global economy.

Speaking at a G20 conference held at Tshwane University of

Technology (TUT) in this capital, the senior official recalled

how the G20, initially, focused on general macroeconomic

issues, but for years it has included, among other topics,

trade and climate change on its agenda.

They also include sustainable development, health,

agriculture, energy, the environment and the fight

against corruption.

The G20 was promoted to the category of Heads of State and

Government after the global economic and financial crisis of

2007, & in 2009, when it became clear that the coordination

necessary to confront the crisis would only be possible at

the highest political level, Mhlauli continued.

Since then, he highlighted ----- the Group's leaders have met

periodically.. and the forum has become the main stage for

international economic cooperation focused on increasing

multilateral cooperation to stabilize the global financial

system, promote long-term sustainable growth and

strengthen global economic governance.

It is in this context, he stressed, that South Africa will take

advantage of the pro tempore presidency to focus on

inclusive and sustainable economic growth that

benefits its citizens.

This Presidency seeks to demonstrate -- that the country is

open for business. South Africa is an attractive destination

for business services and has a sophisticated digital

infrastructure, including mobile networks and

high-speed broadband, he added.

In the economic sphere, the G20 will be a great boost,

especially in areas such as tourism - and hospitality.

Thus, he said, the more than 200 planned meetings

related to this mechanism have already begun in

the nation, which presents opportunities for the

growth of tourism, manufacturing, trade and

other investments.

We also focus intensely on youth employment,

reducing the gender gap, reducing inequality

and protecting the environment, he revealed.

Likewise, he highlighted that the G20 will open new

possibilities in artificial intelligence, which has the

potential to provide unprecedented economic

and social opportunities.

________________________________________

They point out the role of AI

in achieving Agenda 2063

objectives in Africa

May 17th, 8:39am

(Prensa Latina)

The Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, emphasized today

that Africa is entering a new era ---- where local (IA) artificial

intelligence can drive inclusive prosperity and help achieve

the goals of Agenda 2063.

This was expressed by Ahmed when speaking at the ''AI event

for Africa'' under the motto ''Leveraging AI for Prosperity and

Collaboration in Africa'', organized as part of the Ethiopian

Technology Exhibition 2025, which meets from May 16 to

18, at the Addis Ababa International Convention Centre.

“We must own our data. Data sovereignty is not just about

technology, but about trust, identity, and the power to

shape our own future. Our systems must remain

secure and our data must serve our people”,

he stressed.

He specified that Africa is not here to reach others, but to lead.

Our digital transformation is based on values, inclusion and a

future where AI empowers communities ----- and leaves no

one behind.

He noted that Ethiopia leads by example by investing in

artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure and skills

development ---- to build a future-proof society.

Through initiatives such as the Ethiopian Institute of AI, digital

identity and the ''Five Million Programmers'' programme, the

African country translates the vision into tangible impact.

Looking ahead to 2030, the head of government stressed

that Africa must shape AI on its own terms, in an

ethical, inclusive and sustainable way.

For her part, the vice president of the African Union Commission

(UA), Selma Malika Haddadi, gave a visionary speech on “The

role of AI in shaping Africa's future”, highlighting innovation,

the participation of all individuals and the bold path ahead

for the continent.

“The adoption of the continental organization's Continental AI

Strategy marks an important step in building a vibrant,

inclusive and sustainable African ecosystem, that

shapes the global sector from an African

perspective”, he asserted.

Hadaddi said it is imperative -- to develop our individual and

collective talent, data sets and AI computing infrastructure

capabilities, to empower our citizens and transform Africa.

The forum is organized by the Information Network Security

Administration together with the Ethiopian Institute of

Artificial Intelligence, with the Cybersecurity

Council, as co-host.

_________________________________________

African Union, UN and Arab League

addressed the crisis ------- in Sudan

May 17th, 8:38am

(Prensa Latina)

The highest representatives of the African Union (UA)... the

UN and the Arab League addressed the situation in Sudan

within the framework of the 34th Arab Summit meeting

today in Iraq, a statement revealed.

The president of the AU Commission, Mahmoud Ali

Youssouf, the secretaries general of the United

Nations, Antonio Guterres, and the Arab

League, Ahmed Aboul Gheit, chaired

the meeting.

The parties expressed deep concern.... about the worsening

conflict and humanitarian crisis in Khartoum, and called for

urgent international action to end the violence, guarantee

humanitarian access and support a lasting ceasefire,

the AU press release stated.

They agreed to continue coordinating efforts for a peaceful

resolution of the war and reaffirmed their commitment to

the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of Sudan.

The day before, Youssouf and his accompanying delegation

were received by Iraqi President Abdul Latif Jamal Rashid

at Al-Salam Palace. The meeting focused on boosting

relations between Baghdad and Africa -- as well as

exploring opportunities for strategic cooperation

with the African Union Commission.

They also spoke with Gheit about strengthening the

alliance between both organizations in terms of

development and diplomacy.

Youssouf reported on the AU's continued efforts to promote

political dialogue in Sudan and Libya, as well as support

for ''stabilization'' in Somalia.

Both stressed the importance of strengthening multilateral

cooperation to address shared regional challenges.

For his part, Gheit extended an invitation to Youssouf

to visit the Arab League headquarters for further

consultations and to advance concrete

joint actions.

The Baghdad Summit scheduled for this day will seek

to forge a unified Arab position, address critical

regional issues such as Gaza and Syria,

and strengthen the nation's role.

_________________________________________

Business and financial forums set

the weekly agenda in Ethiopia

May 17th, 8:38am

(Prensa Latina)

The High Level Business Forum “Investing in Ethiopia 2025”

and the million-dollar agreements signed, as well as the

Ethiopian Financial Forum and the debates generated,

they marked the information agenda, in the week

that ends here today.

With the aim of strengthening the country's economic prospects

and promoting collaboration, the event “Investing in Ethiopia

2025” (Invest Ethiopia) met on May 12 and 13, co-organized

by key government institutions, the private sector and

development partners.

Ethiopian President Taye Atske-Selassie highlighted the

platform as a national effort to build a tradition of

continuous deliberation that ensures policies

evolve, according to the needs and crucial

contributions of investors.

Selassie highlighted the economic reforms undertaken over

the past six years to sustain growth, attract foreign direct

investment and drive structural transformation.

“These reforms - guarantee macrofinancial stability, eliminate

regulatory barriers and open key economic sectors, such as

finance, banking and telecommunications, to foreign

investment, radically transforming Ethiopia's

economic future”, he asserted.

He highlighted the strategic advantages of Addis Ababa,

by referring to its position as the second most populous

country in Africa, with a dynamic market of 130

million people.

The business forum concluded, with the signing of five

major investment offers totaling more than $1.6 billion.

The chief commissioner of the Ethiopian Investment

Commission, Zeleke Temesgen, signed the

agreements with the representatives of

Sessar Advanced Energy Solutions, a

planned investment of approximately

$100 million in the first phase and

an additional $150 million in the

second phase to support local

solar energy development.

With Hanergy New Energy Technology Company Limited

& Jandu, $360 million was allocated to establish a

solar cell manufacturer.

In the case of the agreement with Huawei Mining Processing

Company Limited, the amount amounting to around $500

million will be used for exploration, mineral processing

and the development of a special economic zone

focused on minerals.

Meanwhile, with Sequa Mining and Processing PLC (, a joint

venture between China and Ethiopia), approximately $600

million will be used to develop coal mining projects.

Finally, the $14 million agreement with Solar Manufacturing

Development PLC aims to further increase its Ethiopian

solar cell capacity.

Another important event held during the week that just

concluded was the Ethiopian Financial Forum 2025,

an event that sought to align stakeholders with

the sector's national agenda ---- strengthen

collaboration and promote investments.

The Addis Ababa Science Museum hosted the event on May 15

and 16, organized by National Bank (NBE) in collaboration with

state telecommunications company Ethio Telecom, which

brought together political leaders, financial institutions,

development partners, private sector actors and

members of the diaspora.

The occasion was propitious for NBE Governor Mamo Mihretu to

highlight the important international support for the ongoing

macroeconomic reform agenda.

In that sense, he mentioned the financial support and debt

service relief of partners in the Middle East, China

and the Paris Club countries.

Mihretu highlighted exceptional volume financing provided by

the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank that

reflects the strength of the country's change efforts.

He recalled that the regulations are focused on fundamental

political areas —monetary, exchange rate and governance

of the financial sector— with the aim of making the

financial system more competitive, market-

oriented, open to foreign investment,

digital and inclusive.

_______________________________________

South Africa will host G20

Science and Technology

meeting

May 16th, 7:57am

(Prensa Latina)

The Ministry of Science, South Africa's Technology and

Innovation organizes the second meeting of the G20

Research and Innovation Working Group and the

G20 Initiative on Bioeconomy, which will

begin on the 25th.

The meeting --- under the pro tempore presidency of South

Africa, according to an official statement on the matter,

will take place until the 28th at the University of the

eastern province of Mpumalanga.

The event will be attended by Algeria, Egypt and Nigeria,

African members of the G20, as well as 15 African

countries invited by South Africa, the ministry

details in the text.

The second GIWG meeting will discuss the progress of the 10

outcomes agreed upon during the first meeting held at Free

State Provincial University in February 2025, and a virtual

follow-up meeting held on April 9 and 10.

The second meeting of the G20 GIWG will also discuss

the draft G20 Ministerial Declaration for Research

and Innovation.

The document highlights how just five years from the

deadline of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for

Sustainable Development, the RIWG and the

GIB must urgently work on cooperation to

preserve biodiversity and use science,

technology and innovation to solve

the many challenges facing

the world.

The second meeting of the RIWG and GIB coincides

with the Africa Day commemorations, and the

Department will organize a Science Leaders

Dialogue, G20 Africa Technology and

Innovation on May 25, the text adds.

Participants in the dialogue will address in particular

the role of artificial intelligence in implementation

of the African Union Science, Technology and

Innovation Strategy (STISA-2034).

_______________________________________

Statement from the Cuban

Foreign Ministry published

in Uganda

May 16th, 7:16am

(Prensa Latina)

The Ugandan newspaper UG Diplomat published in its

pages the recent statement of the Cuban Ministry of

Foreign Affairs “Repeating a lie does not make it

true: Cuba does not support terrorism”, widely

commented on here today in diplomatic media.

The newspaper highlights aspects of the statement where

it is highlighted that with this act, the United States

Department of State ----- turns the fight against

international terrorism ---- into a unilateral

political exercise against any countries

that do not submit to its hegemonic

interests.

The document also recalls that exactly one year ago, when

the previous US government excluded Cuba from the same

list, it recognized the value of bilateral cooperation in law

enforcement, including in jointly confronting terrorism.

Last Wednesday, the Ugandan newspaper also published the

statement by the Ministers of Health of the Non-Aligned

Movement ------ praising Cuba's contributions to

international medical cooperation -- while

condemning efforts to discredit their

global health missions.

Uganda, likewise, has always voted at the United Nations

against the unjust economic, commercial and financial

blockade of the United States against Cuba, imposed

for more than six decades.

________________________________

Victims increase in Chad -- due

to ''inter-community clashes''

May 16th, 6:48am

(Prensa Latina)

The government of Chad acknowledged the death of another

35 people in the latest inter-community clashes that have

occurred in this country, local media report here today.

The events occurred in Mandakao village, in the province

of Logone Occidental, in the southwest of the country,

according to Government spokesman Gassim Cherif

Mahamat, the day before.

Mahamat stated, that the Government condemns these

barbaric acts as firmly as possible and reports that all

necessary measures are being taken to identify them,

locate - and bring to justice - the perpetrators

and accomplices.

Meanwhile, another 19 people died between Wednesday

and Thursday --- in clashes between farmers and

shepherds in the department of Lac Iro, in

the southern province of Moyen-Chari,

according to local police.

In African countries like Chad, clashes between nomadic

Muslim herders and Christian farmers are frequent over

control of fertile lands, dedicated to grazing animals

or promoting cash crops.

____________________________________________________

Ethiopian Technology Exhibition

2025 -------- opens its doors

May 16th, 5:34am

(Prensa Latina)

The Ethiopian Technology Exhibition 2025 (Tech Expo 2025)

started here today, an international event that will show the

rapid transformation of the local sector and advances in

key areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence,

smart cities and financial technology, among others.

The Addis Ababa International Convention Centre will host

until May 18, the event organized by the Information

Network Security Administration (INSA) and the

Ethiopian Institute of Artificial Intelligence

(EAII), with the Cybersecurity Council

as co-host.

INSA CEO Tigist Hamid said at a recent press conference

that the exhibition is unprecedented, unique ----- for its

organization, the diversity of its participants and its

thematic scope, which positions it as the largest

technology exhibition in East Africa.

Hamid specified that, with an estimated participation of more

than 10 thousand interested parties, Tech Expo 2025 will

serve as a fundamental platform to show the rapid local

technological transformation, aligned with the nation's

Ethiopia Digital 2025 strategy.

The latter, about to end, prepared the African country to

launch the 2030 digital strategy, he stressed. In that

sense, the international event supports the

commitment to sustained progress and

turning Addis Ababa into a digital

centre, he added.

For his part, the general director of the EAII, Worku Gachena,

highlighted the strategic importance of the exhibition to

promote Ethiopia's technological image, and create

links with the market.

Gachena stated that the institute is dedicated to implementing

artificial intelligence solutions in all sectors, addressing data-

related challenges ------ and the development of a qualified

workforce. This exhibition will be a vital showcase of

our achievements, he said.

He also highlighted the opportunity --- for the exchange of

experiences in the sector, in particular the promotion of

the broad participation of private technological actors.

Another important element of the exhibition is that it aligns

with the digitalization strategy of the African Union's

Agenda 2063, he concluded.

________________________________

Pedestrians and cyclists focus --- on
event in Africa for global campaign

May 15th, 10:07am

(Prensa Latina)

The role of non-motorized transportation in advancing

equitable mobility, healthy and climate resilience in

Africa -- focused on an event of the VIII UN World

Road Safety Week.... that continues today.

The Technology, Innovation, Connectivity and Infrastructure

Development Division of the Economic Commission for

Africa (ECA), in collaboration with the Government of

Ethiopia and key development partners, organized

the meeting to present their new strategies ----

and commitments.

Ethiopian Minister of State for Transport and Logistics, Bareo

Hassen highlighted the government's deep responsibility for

sustainable mobility and praised the ECA's continued

collaboration, a statement said.

Hassen underlined the country's comprehensive policy

framework, which includes a 30-year transportation

roadmap, integrated national infrastructure

standards and ongoing efforts to promote

walking and cycling..... through

inclusive design.

Likewise, planning based on equity and citizen

participation, such as car-free days. “Walking

and cycling are not symbolic ----- they are

practical. "We are already implementing

our strategy in 41 cities ..and hope to

reach 69 by the end of our 10-year

plan", he said.

The director of the Technology, Innovation, Connectivity and

Infrastructure Development Division of the ECA, Robert

Lisinge - emphasized the Commission's support for

road safety, through policy advice, data systems,

national assessments & capacity development.

For his part, the head of the Security and Protection Service,

Ricardo Freitas da Silva, highlighted the importance of

enforcing transit rules -- both in host countries and

among UN staff.

''Failures in traffic rules and regulations are the main cause

of the accidents we are experiencing. Commitment to

these rules is crucial, and violations should not be

ignored - or overlooked - without adequately

addressing incidents'', he emphasized.

The VIII United Nations Road Safety Week, which meets from

May 12 to 18 under the motto “Let's make walking and

cycling safe”, is a global call for active mobility to be

safe, accessible and integrated... into urban and

transport planning.

Africa, with the world's highest rates of pedestrian

and cyclist deaths ---- faces an urgent need to act,

the ECA statement warned.

_______________________________________

President of Ethiopia provides

recommendations for the

financial sector

May 15th, 9:45am

(Prensa Latina)

The need for Ethiopia's financial sector to expand its customer

base, its geographical reach and lead the country's digital

transformation focused today on the intervention of

President Taye Atske-Selassie, in a forum.

Opening the Ethiopian Financial Forum 2025 which will sit at

the Addis Ababa Science Museum for two days, Selassie

considered three key recommendations to ''maintain

momentum and maximize our success''.

First, he urged the sector to dramatically expand its size and

reach within the economy ----- by pursuing two interrelated

imperatives: aggressively expanding its geographic

and customer-based reach, at the same time,

transforming the ecosystem, by focusing

on improving service standards.

''We must all lead Ethiopia's digital transformation and

position the financial ecosystem as the backbone of

the country's progress'', he noted, considering that

the Ethiopia Digital 2025 strategy is becoming a

reality -------- across the board.

For third place, the African president said that, with the aim of

guaranteeing the sustainable growth of the sector, “financial

inclusion and investment in human capital, are imperative”.

On the other hand, when analyzing the economic context,

the dignitary noted that the previous “state system was

not conducive to the development of a modern

financial sector that would address the

urgent needs of private companies

through innovation, and the rapid

delivery of consumer services”.

He recalled that this situation generated significant pressure on

the macroeconomy, forcing the country to rely heavily on large

-scale debt to finance public investment”. This, he stressed,

caused an enormous burden.......... on sustainability and

debt servicing.

With the launch of the economic reform program in 2023,

long-standing problems were addressed, such as high

inflation, increased debt, bad loan portfolios in state

banks and a serious exchange crisis, he asserted.

He mentioned the support provided by the International

Monetary Fund, the largest concessional financing in

the history of that international organization, and

the loans approved by the World Bank, the

largest in recent years....... to maintain

the momentum of the reform.

The Financial Forum is organized by the National

Bank of Ethiopia in collaboration with the state

telecommunications company Ethio Telecom

and brings together policy makers, financial

institutions, development partners, actors

from the private sector......... and the

diaspora community.

_______________________________________

Unicef recognizes Angola's progress

----- in its commitment to children

May 15th, 9:35am

(Prensa Latina)

Unicef deputy representative in Angola, Cristina Bargiolo,

recognized the country's progress..... in fulfilling its

commitments to child protection programs.

Speaking at the conference on juvenile justice in this capital,

the official stated that, at a time when the 50th anniversary

of Angolan National Independence is being celebrated, it

is important to highlight how Angola has taken clear

steps, both in the legislative and political spheres,

that demonstrate its commitment to the Rights

of the Child.

“Angola was one of the first countries in the world to

ratify the Convention on the Rights of the Child in

1990, a document ----- that represents the

unequivocal and prominent recognition

and guarantee of the rights of the

child, within the framework of

human rights in general”,

he stated.

For his part, the member of the Superior Council of the

Angolan Judiciary, Carlos Cavuquila, referred to the

need to expand integrated child support centres

throughout the country, as they are currently

only present in the provinces of Luanda,

Moxico, Malanje and Huíla.

The official expressed his hope that as soon as possible

it will be defined who should assume responsibility for

coordinating the process, be it the Ministry of

Justice, the Ministry of the Interior, the

Ministry of the Family or ...another

institution.

For his part, the vice governor of Luanda for the political,

social and economic sector, Manuel Gonçalves,

highlighted the value of the conference for

dialogue, reflection and coordination of

strategies that strengthen child

protection mechanisms

in Angola.

Gonçalves advocated for the urgent need

to ensure that no child........ is left behind.

_____________________________________

Amnesty Report Exposes

Exploitation of Kenyan

Domestic Workers in

Saudi Arabia

May 14th, 1:09pm

(teleSUR)

Amnesty International has released a damning report

detailing the abuse and exploitation of Kenyan

domestic workers ----- in Saudi Arabia ---
documenting over seventy cases of

deception, forced labour --- and

inhumane working conditions.

Many workers were misled by recruitment agents

....promised jobs in beauty and hospitality, but

instead, forced into domestic servitude.

Bigeni Maina Mwangi, one of the

survivors, shared:

“The contract I signed in Nairobi was changed

the moment I landed. The agent said I had

no choice --- but to work.”

Mwangi ....worked 17 months without pay, only to be sent

home empty-handed. After a brief attempt at finding a

better job in Dubai, she returned to Oman in 2020,

where her conditions worsened.

The report urges Kenyan and Saudi authorities to implement

labour protections, prosecute abusive employers, and ban

exploitative recruitment agencies.

Another survivor, Mejuma Shaban Ali --- described her ordeal as

“a prison”, recounting how she escaped her employer’s house

disguised as taking out trash, only to be denied assistance

by the embassy ---- and forced into illegal labour.

More than 150,000 Kenyans - work as domestic workers in Saudi

Arabia, often subjected to extreme conditions. Amnesty Kenya’s

Executive Director Irungu Houghton called the system “modern

slavery”, demanding urgent policy reforms and ------- stronger

embassy intervention.

In recent months, Kenya’s government has cracked down on

rogue recruitment agencies, repatriating over 100 workers

stranded in Myanmar and Thailand. However - activists

warn that deeper structural protections are needed

--- to prevent further abuses.

____________________________________

Eastern Congo’s Mining Crisis:

Conflict, Exploitation, and

Regional Tensions

May 14th, 1:05pm

(teleSUR)

In the resource-rich hills... of North Kivu’s Masisi territory,

thousands of artisan miners extract strategic minerals

such as coltan, cassiterite, and manganese, vital for

global technology industries. However... the region

remains embroiled - in decades of armed conflict,

with over 100 militias vying for territorial control.

The Rubaya mining site, now controlled by the M23 armed

group, lies at the heart of these tensions. The Congolese

government accuses M23 of seizing mineral resources

and --- illegally .......smuggling them into Rwanda,

exacerbating instability.

Miners, however, say daily life remains unchanged, with some

citing less harassment under rebel rule, compared to past

militia control by the Wazalendo, a militia allied with the

Congolese army.

For miners like Jean Baptiste Bigirimana,

wages remain desperately low:

“I get $40 a month, but that’s not enough.

Children need clothes, education,

and food.”

Trader Bahati Moïse -- who resells coltan -- lamented the

disconnect between the global reliance on Congolese

minerals and the conditions of those who mine them:

“The world knows that 'phones are made from coltan

that comes from here, but ----- look at our lives.

We can’t continue like this.”

In April, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio oversaw a peace

pledge between Congo and Rwanda, aiming to stabilize the

region ---- and secure U.S. access to Congo’s minerals.

President Felix Tshisekedi sought US investment

in exchange for diplomatic intervention ---------

to reduce the armed violence.

While the deal offers hope ------- for stability, analysts question

whether economic incentives alone can end militia violence

that has defied peacekeeping efforts, since the 1990s.

____________________________________

The UN mission in Libya calls on

the parties to the clashes in

Tripoli - to stop fighting

May 12th, 11:10pm

(RT.ru)

"The United Nations Support Mission in Libya is deeply

concerned about the deterioration of the security

situation in Tripoli, as heavy weapons fighting

is intensifying in densely populated civilian

neighbourhoods," the mission said, in a

statement on social network X.

The UN mission called on all sides to immediately

cease hostilities, and also expressed support for

efforts to resolve the situation.

Earlier it was reported that clashes broke out in

different parts of Tripoli, shooting was heard.

Military equipment is seen on the streets

of the city.

According to Al Wasat, the clashes began after

the assassination of the head of the security

service at the Presidential Council of
Libya, Abdel Ghani al-Kikli.

Tripoli University and the airport have

suspended operations amid clashes.

The Ministry of Health of Libya calls on the city's

hospitals to increase their readiness for any

emergency situations.

_____________________________________

South African president

defends growth led

by Africa

May 12th, 10:21am

(Prensa Latina)

The president of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, urged here a

new era of economic growth and integration -- led by Africa.

Speaking on the Presidential Panel of the Africa

Executive Directors Forum 2025, he also called

for: more collaboration between governments

and the private sector across the continent,

and highlighted the role that in that sense,

the G20 can play.. under the pro tempore

presidency of South Africa, as well as

the African Continental Free Trade

Area (AfCFTA).

In his words, the President the fact that his country leads the

G20 this year as a ''privilege'' and an ''historical opportunity'',

highlighting the importance of the recent inclusion of the

African Union.... as a permanent member of the G20.

“Our continent's voice will now be amplified -- in defining global

economic and social priorities”, he said, highlighting the G20

theme for 2025: “Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability”.

Ramaphosa also highlighted the importance of African

leadership, in solving the continent's challenges,

particularly in terms of peace and security.

In that sense, he added.. african-led peace initiatives in the

Democratic Republic of the Congo have proven “essential

----- in laying the foundation for peacemaking and

confidence-building”.

These actions are framed, the South African president

emphasized, in the principle of “African solutions

to African problems”.

“We are in charge of the future of this continent and we must

build peace ourselves, because we live in it”, he stressed.

Regarding economic development, Ramaphosa placed special

emphasis on the implementation of the AfCFTA, describing

it as a transformative driver of intra-African trade and

economic integration.

The AfCFTA, he reminded investors, is a growth engine that

provides access to a market of 1.4 billion people and a

combined GDP of 3.4 billion dollars.

The African CEO Forum, the continent's leading platform for

CEOs, investors and policymakers, is being held this year

against a backdrop of growing protectionism, decreased

development aid and the increased debt of many

African nations.

_________________________________

The Dominican Foreign Minister ---

receives his Kenyan counterpart

May 12th, 11:26am

(Prensa Latina)

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Dominican

Republic, Roberto Álvarez, today received the

first Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Minister

of Kenya, Musalia Mudavadi.

Mudavadi, who is on an official visit to this country,

will lead, together with Álvarez, a meeting of

political consultations in order to discuss

issues of bilateral interest.

At around noon, this Monday, both Heads will

lead a press conference at the Convention

Center of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Upon his arrival in the country, Mudavadi was received

the day before by the Vice Minister of Bilateral Foreign

Policy, Francisco Caraballo, and the director of State

Ceremonial and Protocol, Francisco Cantizano.

The Dominican Foreign Ministry highlighted the importance

of this high-level visit for the strengthening of diplomatic

relations and for Kenya's leadership in the Multinational

Security Support Mission Haiti, a country that shares

the island with the Dominican Republic.

Today Foreign Minister Mudavadi will also hold an audience

with the president of the Senate, Ricardo de los Santos.

According to his agenda, tomorrow... he will visit the Minister of

Defense, Lieutenant General Carlos Antonio Fernández Onofre;

and later he will speak with the heads of Health, Víctor

Atallah, and Industry and Commerce, Víctor Bisonó.

Prior to leaving the country on Tuesday, the diplomat will

have an audience with the President of the Republic,

Luis Abinader, at the National Palace.

__________________________________________________

France and Algeria - in another

escalation of their diplomatic

crisis

May 12th, 9:58am

(Prensa Latina)

France and Algeria are going through another moment of

deterioration in their relations today after the North

African country... announced new expulsions of

French diplomats, to which --- Paris promised

to respond immediately and proportionally.

The day before --- the news released by the Algerian Press

Service of the call to the Chargé d'Affaires in Algiers - to

notify him of the repatriation order of at least 15 French

agents circulated here --- those who will have assumed
diplomatic or consular functions, without completing

the corresponding procedures.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot considered the

decision, incomprehensible and brutal, in a context in

which, ties between the two countries are at their

worst level.... in several years.

Paris argues that it sent reinforcement personnel to Algeria to

compensate for the expulsion of 12 of its diplomats in April,

to which, President Emmanuel Macron reacted, with a

similar measure.

The departure of our agents on a temporary mission is

unjustifiable and is of no interest to either France or

Algeria, Barrot stressed today, during a trip to the

northern department of Calvados, in Normandy.

For its part, the Algerian media outlet published that the

government of the African nation sees the sending of

officials outside of current procedures as a lack of

respect from France.

The crisis escalated last month due to the aforementioned

expulsions ---- which began in Algeria after the arrest on

French soil by the National Anti-Terrorist Prosecutor's

Office of one of its consular agents, presented as a

suspect for the kidnapping last year of Algerian

opposition asylum seeker Amir Boukhors,

known as AmirDZ.

This incident - and subsequent reactions - occurred when

everything seemed to tend towards a solution, following

a telephone conversation.. between Macron and his

counterpart, Abdelmadjid Tebboune, who both

agreed to end tensions...... and return to

cooperation in the areas of security

and migration.

Based on this dialogue, Foreign Minister Barrot, traveled

to Algiers on April 6 to profile with his host counterpart,

Ahmed Attaf, the collaboration that the leaders decided

to resume after 8 months of diplomatic confrontations,

which included mutual accusations and threats from

Paris --- to ''question'' the 1968 immigration pacts.

In the background of the crisis, is France's decision to

support Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara,

whose independence Algeria supports... without

ignoring the wounds of the colonial past and

the bloody war of independence.

The differences grew with the arrest, in Algiers, of the writer

Boualem Sansal ---- sentenced to five years in prison for

attacking state security, and the refusal to accept

the deportation of Algerian ''influencers'' -

denounced by France for promoting

violence within its territory.

_____________________________

Belousov: Russia sees Nigeria as

a promising partner in Africa

May 11th, 11:27pm

(Izvestia.ru)

Russia sees Nigeria as a promising partner in Africa.

This was stated on May 10, by Russian Defense

Minister, Andrey Belousov, during a meeting

with his Nigerian counterpart Christopher

Gwabin Musa.

"We consider Nigeria as a promising partner

on the African continent," Belousov said.

He added --- that Russia supports the attitude of the Nigerian

authorities to strengthen their armed forces to protect their

sovereignty, as well as bilateral cooperation between the

Russian Federation and Nigeria in the military and

military-technical spheres.

Christopher Gwabin Musa, noted - that his country greatly

values its friendship with Russia and highly appreciates

the assistance it provides. He also stressed, that the

Russian Federation works for the benefit of peace

and stability --- and always fulfills agreements.

The Russian Defense Ministry clarified, that the talks

were held the day after the events dedicated to the

80th anniversary --- of the Victory in the Great

Patriotic War.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said on May 10, that Russia will

continue to help Burkina Faso fight terrorism in the country. He

also noted that the Russian Federation gives priority to

providing humanitarian assistance to Ouagadougou,

recalling that last year 25 thousand tons of wheat

were sent free of charge, and this month a large

batch of other food products.. will arrive in

the African republic.

____________________________________________

Putin: Russia doubled quota for

students from Burkina Faso

May 10th, 6:15pm

(RT.ru)

Russian leader Vladimir Putin, during talks with the head

of Burkina Faso, Ibrahim Traore, announced a twofold

increase in the quota for students from the African

country, in 2024-2025.

"The quota of Russian state scholarships for

Burkini citizens has been increased -
more than twice," Putin said.

Earlier, the Russian Foreign Ministry said that Moscow is

ready to support Burkina Faso, in ensuring its national

security - and solving its socio-economic problems.

____________________________________________________

Over 100 People Killed in Flooded

Village ---- in Eastern DR Congo

May 10th, 2:08pm

(teleSUR)

At least 109 people died, in the torrential rains that flooded

last Thursday and Friday in the town of Kasaba, in eastern

Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), a local civil

society leader confirmed on Saturday.

The village, located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika in

the territory of Fizi in South Kivu province, was hit by

heavy rainfall, accompanied by strong winds that

caused the Kasaba River to overflow.

According to South Kivu province government the provisional

death toll is 62 confirmed, an unknown number of people

missing, 150 houses destroyed.. or swept away, 30

people injured --- including children and women,

and numerous agricultural fields devastated.

South Kivu government also informed that many agricultural

fields have been destroyed, threatening the livelihoods of

families who have suffered a significant loss of property,

in addition to the interruption of school activities in

the disaster area.

“The provincial government remains concerned - about the

high risk of water-borne diseases, respiratory infections

and malnutrition --- especially during this period of

persistent rains; as a majority of those affected

are currently living in precarious conditions,

Homeless, with no access to clean water

or medical assistance,” the provincial

authorities stated.

The authorities also confirmed that an emergency assessment

team has already been sent to the disaster site -- through the

provincial Ministry of Health and Humanitarian Action, after

requesting a large-scale humanitarian response from the

competent national authorities.

South Kivu officials, also invited all humanitarian organizations

operating in the province to intervene urgently in the affected

area, and for the health services to prepare for a possible

health crisis.

___________________________________________

African Union ----- Congratulates Pope Leo XIV

and Looks Forward To Continue Collaborating

May 10th, 10:15am

(teleSUR)

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC),

Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, congratulated Leo XIV on

Saturday on his election as the new pontiff of

the Catholic Church -- and expressed the

continental organization’s desire.. to

continue collaborating with the

Holy See.

In a brief statement issued by the AU, which is based in Addis

Ababa, Youssouf stated that he “sincerely congratulates

His Holiness Pope Leo XIV on his election.”

The head of the Commission (secretariat) expressed his “deep

hope to continue collaborating with the Holy See to promote

peace, justice and the dignity of all human beings on

our planet.”

The American Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, elected this

Thursday as Pope of the Catholic Church, was born in

Chicago 69 years ago, although he also obtained

Peruvian nationality in 2015 after spending a

large part of his religious life in the

Andean country.

Leo XIV, who becomes the 267th pontiff in history, was

elected on the second day of the conclave to succeed

Francis, the first Argentine pope, who died on April 21.

In addition several African leaders, including the presidents

of Tanzania, Burundi, Zambia and Kenya, congratulated US

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost on his election as the new

Pope Leo XIV.

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu congratulated the Prevost on

his election as the “leader of the Catholic Church” in the world.

“On behalf of the government and people of Tanzania, I wish

you all the best in your service to the Church and the world

at large,” she said on his account on the social network X.

The president of Burundi, Evariste Ndayishimiye, congratulated

him on his election as pontiff and expressed his wishes for

“success, happiness and longevity.”

For his part, the President of Zambia, Hakainde Hichilema, hoped

that his leadership would be “blessed with wisdom, compassion

and strength” to face the challenges of “these decisive times.”

The Kenyan leader hoped --- that Leo XIV would “firmly” defend

peace, justice and the “sanctity” of human dignity throughout

the world - wishing for Leo’s papacy “a bright light of love,

hope and compassion; that it help the poor, give voice to

those who do not have a voice, heal divisions, and

firmly defend peace, justice and the sanctity of

human dignity ------- throughout the world.”

___________________________________

Paramilitaries ---- Bomb a Prison in

Western Sudan and Kill 21 People

May 10th, 9:50am

(teleSUR)

At least a dozen people died this Saturday --- in the bombing

carried out by the paramilitary group Rapid Support Forces

(RSF) against a prison in Al Obeid, the capital of North

Kordofan state, in western Sudan, where more than

a dozen were injured, official sources reported.

Sudan Doctors Network informed that 21 people were killed and

47 injured - as a result of the Rapid Support Forces targeting, as

several local journalists saw the RSF march to Al-Obeid prison.

Among the dead are ten civilians and two police officers,

a local official from the state of North Kordofan told a

press agency, adding that “dozens were injured” as

a result of this attack “with drones from the RSF”

against the prison.

According to this source, the death toll is expected to rise, as

some are in critical condition and have been transferred to

various hospitals for treatment, making it difficult to

obtain accurate statistics.

The paramilitaries attacked Port Sudan, the temporary

administrative capital, in the east of the country for

the seventh consecutive day, although the army’s

anti-aircraft missiles intercepted the drones ---

and shot them down in the Red Sea.

He added that the Rapid Support Forces, attacked Port Sudan

with more than 55 drones in a week, and that the army’s anti-

aircraft weapons shot down more than 40 of them, while the

rest attacked fuel depots, power plants and military sites.

The attacks on Port Sudan, about 650 kilometres northeast of

Khartoum, come after the regular army managed to expel the

paramilitaries from most of the country’s capital at the end

of March, which they had occupied since the start of the

war in April 2023.

After several defeats in the central-eastern part of the country in

recent months, as well as in Khartoum, the paramilitaries have

intensified their drone attacks against vital civilian and

military installations in areas controlled by the army,

including power plants in the north and east of

the country.

[Rhondda Records adds:

It's not a civil war, or a fight between two egos.

It's more of the same --- ruining a Muslim state

that opposed the West and Israel.

Or are you too brainwashed by the

lack of clarity for so long, in the

''alternative media''?!!!?]

_____________________________

Remains of dead Uruguayan blue

helmet --- repatriated in the DRC

May 8th, 12:15pm

(Prensa Latina)

The remains of the Uruguayan blue helmet Julio César

Álvarez, who died in the Democratic Republic of the

Congo of a heart attack, were received here with

military honours.

The Minister of Defense, Sandra Lazo, led the ceremony

to receive the remains of Corporal Álvarez, of the
Army, who died on April 16.

He was carrying out a mission as part of the Uruguayan

contingent that operates in the African country under

the UN flag.

The soldier had recovered from injuries received in January

during an attack by the M23 rebel movement in the city of

Goma, in eastern DRC.

On that occasion the Uruguayan soldier Rodolfo Álvarez died.

So far this year, several blue helmets in the South American

country, have suffered injuries.

More than twenty of the members of the Uruguay IV battalion

have returned to their country by their means, due to the

delay in the troop relief agreed with the UN.

_______________________________________

President of Namibia - in

Angola for working visit

May 8th, 12:01pm

(Prensa Latina)

The president of Namibia, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah,

arrived in Angola today for a two-day working visit.

During his stay he will have his first official meeting

with Angolan President, João Lourenço, since he

took office on March 21.

The visit ---- in accordance with a brief Namibian presidential

statement, highlights the long ties of friendship, solidarity

and cooperation that exist between the two countries,

based on a shared history, regional unity and
mutual socioeconomic interests”.

The text also highlights how it constitutes an opportunity

for both countries.... to deepen their solid bilateral and

commercial relations, for the benefit of both nations.

The ties of friendship, it is remembered, date back to the fight

for Namibia's independence, achieved in 1990 after the

defeat --- of the South African Apartheid forces in

Angolan lands, by forces of that nation --- and

Cuba, a fight in which troops from Namibia

also participated (Southwest African

People's Organization, Swapo).

According to the Namibian presidency, the visit is expected

to strengthen bilateral ties and accelerate progress in

strategic areas of cooperation, particularly in the

agriculture sectors, trade and oil and gas.

_____________________________________

Kenya expert - warns of ecological

disaster - due to insect trafficking

May 8th, 8:28am

(teleSUR)

The case -- of the Belgian teenagers caught trafficking ants

in Kenya has drawn attention to the illegal trade of lesser

-known wildlife species. The two 19-year-olds.... Lornoy

David and Seppe Lodewijckx -- were arrested on April

5 with 5,000 ants at a guest house in Nakuru County.

They were charged on April 15 and given the choice of

paying a $7,700 fine or serving 12 months in prison.

Authorities say the ants were destined for European and Asian

markets, highlighting a growing trend in wildlife trafficking.

The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) noted that the species

included Messor cephalotes, a large red-coloured

harvester ant ---- native to East Africa.

In a separate but related case, two other men — Vietnamese

national Duh Hung Nguyen and Kenyan citizen Dennis

Ng’ang’a — were also fined $7,700 each after being

caught with 400 ants. The court described their

actions .....as part of an elaborate scheme.

Entomologist Shadrack Muya emphasized the ecological

importance of ants, warning: that their removal from

their natural habitat - could disrupt ecosystems

and lead to potential ecological disasters.

This case underscores the broader issue of biopiracy, where

lesser-known species are exploited for commercial gain.

What are your thoughts on this emerging trend?

_________________________________________

Nobel Laureate Denis Mukwege:

Urges Action ----------- Against

Sexual Violence in Congo

May 7th, 1:02pm

(teleSUR)

Nobel Peace Prize winner Denis Mukwege has condemned

the systematic use of sexual violence as a weapon of

war in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC),

calling for urgent international intervention

to end the atrocities.

Speaking at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France,

Mukwege described a “dramatic situation” unfolding in

North Kivu, where his hospital has documented over

10,000 cases ------ of sexual violence. “Thirty to

thirty-five percent of victims are children,”

he warned, stressing -- that targeting

minors crosses “every possible

red line.”

Mukwege, founder of Panzi Hospital in Bukavu, has spent

over two decades treating survivors of rape, many of

whom are victims of armed groups fighting over

Congo’s vast mineral wealth. His work has

placed him at the forefront of global

efforts ------ to end gender-based

violence in conflict zones.

In his Strasbourg address, Mukwege --- urged European

lawmakers -- to push for peace negotiations and direct

intervention in Congo’s escalating humanitarian crisis.

The region, devastated by ongoing fighting between

militias, remains one of the worst-affected areas

in Africa.

Mukwege shared the 2018 Nobel Peace Prize with Yazidi

activist Nadia Murad, a survivor of ISIS sexual slavery,

reinforcing his advocacy for the survivors of

wartime atrocities.

As violence in the DRC continues, Mukwege’s call

for action grows louder, demanding justice and

protection for vulnerable populations trapped

in conflict.

____________________________________

UA reiterated commitment

to political dialogue and

cooperation with Cuba

May 7th, 12:59pm

(Prensa Latina)

The African Union Commission (UA) today reiterated its

commitment to political dialogue and multilateral

cooperation with Cuba.

This was expressed by the team leader of the Cabinet of the

President of the Commission, Mohamed El-Amine Souef,

during a meeting with the Cuban ambassador to the AU,

Lucas Domingo Hernández, at the headquarters of the

continental organization, reported the Embassy of

Havana, in Ethiopia.

Souef recognized the role of the Caribbean island in the

training of African human resources, as well as its

contribution, in times of health emergency, on

the continent.

For his part, Hernández thanked the dialogue and support

provided in the preparation of the meeting held between

the president of the AU Commission, Mahmoud Ali

Youssouf, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of

Cuba, Bruno Rodríguez, who was making a

three-day official visit to Ethiopia

last March.

Both parties highlighted the historic ties of friendship and

solidarity that unite Havana and the African continent, in

addition to agreeing on the importance of strengthening

collaboration in key areas and in joint efforts for peace

and sustainable development in Africa.

________________________________________

UA highlighted Comesa's

contribution -------- to

intra-African trade

May 7th, 11:42am

(Prensa Latina)

The African Union (UA) today highlighted the contribution

of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa

(Comesa) to intra-African trade and linking women as

agents of economic transformation, beneficiaries

in addition to that movement.

This was expressed -- by the vice president of the AU

Commission, Selma Malika Haddadi, when speaking

at the inauguration of the VI Trade Fair and

Business Conference of the Federation

of Business Women of Comesa, which

will meet in this capital until May 9.

Haddadi specified that the role of this regional economic

organization is also illustrated in its contribution to the

objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area.

He called for holding the event - which he considered an

original and inclusive initiative that, through its rotation

approach -- benefits the 21 Member States of Comesa,

it guarantees its ownership by all citizens and a solid

regional anchorage based on concrete achievements.

In his opinion, the meeting shed light on the diverse

strengths of this common market in areas such as

demographics, mineral wealth, ecotourism and

green value chains.

The combined effects of these assets -- place the platform

in a unique and privileged position to influence important

drivers of economic transformation, including access to

financing, the development of infrastructure for trade

facilitation, the value chain and the empowerment

of the private sector, he stressed.

“The African Union is built ---- as prescribed by the Treaty of

Abuja, on the strength of its pillars, the Regional Economic
Communities. The vitality of Comesa, best expressed in

the formula of this forum, which is expected to travel

to all its member states, provides irrefutable proof

of the weight of political will”, he asserted.

He invited the more than 200 participating women

entrepreneurs to share their experience with all

regional economic communities... in a spirit of

mutual enrichment through the development

of reciprocal and win-win relationships,
in the continent.

This will build an inclusive Africa, the Africa we want,

he added while expressing the African Union's

willingness to offer everything possible to

the event to guarantee its development.

The event is held under the motto 'Un Comesa prospero'

which promotes regional integration with a gender

perspective, to promote green investments and

value chains, tourism & mining in the AfCFTA.

__________________________________________

Socioeconomic gender gap -- really

worries South African authorities

May 7th, 11:35am

(Prensa Latina)

The Minister of the Presidency of South Africa, Sindisiwe

Chikunga, warned today about the persistence of a

socioeconomic gender gap “unsustainable” in

the world.

The Minister made these statements when speaking at

the Global Conference on Financial Inclusion of the

G20 Working Group for the Empowerment of

Women (EWWG), which is celebrated until

the next day the 9th at Sun City Resort,

Chikunga further highlighted how despite decades

of favorable political will, women and girls remain

the most affected by poverty and exclusion

around the world.

“Poverty continues to deprive women and girls of

essential services such as health care and

education, and excludes them from

socioeconomic opportunities

throughout their lives”,

she emphasized.

The Minister also highlighted --- how women remain

under-represented in economic decision-making

positions --- face limited access to credit and

capital, suffer employment discrimination,

receive lower salaries, and, they assume

a disproportionate burden of unpaid

care and have less access to

digital finances.

Even in regions where female labour force participation

has peaked ----- their work is often limited to self-

employment in the informal sector, with no

social security or growth opportunities,

chikunga...... lamented.

The event, organized by the South African Ministry of Women,

Youth and People with Disabilities ---- seeks to establish a

Framework of Guidelines for the Integration of Women's

Priorities into G20 policies, ensuring that female

financial empowerment is central to global

institutional and economic reforms.

Chikunga also expressed concern about the slow progress

towards Sustainable Development Goal (ODS) number five,

which seeks to achieve gender equality and empower all

women and girls.

The conference takes place in the context of international

commitments such as the SDGs, the 2063 Agenda of the

African Union, S. Africa's National Development Plan

2030 and the G20 priorities for 2025 --- all of which

highlight financial inclusion as a key driver for

women's economic empowerment

____________________________________

Memory without borders ---- "Immortal

regiment" passed through the Congo

May 6th, 7:11pm

by Alexey Merkulov

(Rossiyskaya Gazeta)

Brazzaville commemorates heroes
by bringing together generations
....and continents.

The "Immortal Regiment" campaign -- dedicated to the

80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic
War ------ organized by the Russian Embassy and the

Russian House, was held in the Republic of Congo.

The march was attended by Russian compatriots

living in the country, as well as the Congolese
graduates of Soviet and Russian universities.

The event has become a symbol of a common

historical memory, intertwining the destinies

of peoples.

Embassy staff and participants of the action --- shared

stories about their relatives who survived the horrors

of the Great Patriotic War ---- those memories of the
steadfastness of the Soviet people.. who, despite
hunger, fighting and deprivation, did not break
down in spirit..... caused a deep, and
emotional response.

"Our ancestors -- having shown unprecedented

heroism and selflessness, not only defended

their Homeland, but also liberated Europe

from the fascist yoke," the Russian

Embassy in Congo said, in

a Telegram channel.

The participants unanimously emphasized --- that the

memory of the heroism of our ancestors should live

in the hearts of new generations. "It is our duty to

tell our children and grandchildren about those

who gave us peace," the audience noted.

For many Congolese graduates who have connected

their lives with Russia, the event has become a

bridge between cultures -- a reminder of

the values won ----- at the cost of

incredible sacrifices.

The procession ended.. with a minute of silence,

and the air was filled with a sense of unity ---
not only of time, but also of continents.

The "Immortal Regiment" campaign in the Congo

proved that the memory of the Great Victory

knows no borders --- uniting those who

believe in justice, courage and the

strength of the human spirit.

_______________________

Sudanese Army.. admits RSF

attacks against Port Sudan

May 6th, 9:45am

(Prensa Latina)

The Rapid Support Forces (RSF, English) attacked

the airport, the port and a hotel in the eastern

city of Port Sudan the day before, a source

from the Sovereign Transitional Council

(CST) admitted today.

Since April 2023, the RSF, obedient to General

Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, and the CST, loyal

to General Abdel Fattah al Burhan have been

involved in the Sudanese civil war ---- cause

of the largest refugee crisis in history, 14

million people, 24 thousand deaths

and the country's devastation.

Military sources specified that drones successfully hit

the targets the day before in the first attack against

that town, where columns of smoke still rise after

loud explosions are heard.

Even earlier, last Sunday, RSF aircraft hit an arsenal at

the Othman Daqna air base and the next day a fuel

depot in the same town.

In addition to seeking military objectives with these

actions, the RSF is trying to prove it's alive ---- after

the last weeks during which the Sudanese Army

evicted them from this capital, the twin city of

Omdurman, and several of its bastions.

_______________________________________

Ethiopia ----- Israel Business

Forum explores investment

opportunities without ethics

May 6th, 9:02am

(Prensa Latina)

The foreign ministers of Ethiopia, Gedion Timothewos,

and Israel, Gideon Saar, today... chaired a business

forum here, to explore the investment and trade

possibilities open ----- through strengthening

their bilateral relations ---- and by ignoring

the mass genocide of children in Gaza.

During the event held under the theme ''Strengthening

bilateral relations through innovation'' -- Timothewos

highlighted the exceptional relations between both

countries, impregnated with old ties, inspired by

shared values, and constantly evolving through

modern cooperation, he said, without choking.

Over the years, he said, commitments between Addis
Ababa and Tel Aviv --- expanded through key areas
such as agriculture, water management,
health, defense, technology
and propaganda.

He considered that the forum - is the threshold of a

new chapter, that places cash at the centre of the
association. “The forum points out that economic

diplomacy is no longer a complementary search.

Now --- it is the very driving force of our foreign

policy and a key pillar of national degradation”,

he asserted, then turned purple --- and fell on

the floor, as an envelope of pus, spewed

from his rictal buccal cavity.

Looking ahead, the head of Ethiopian diplomacy

predicted potential in strengthening alliances

in agrotechnology, precision agriculture and

irrigation systems. Beyond agriculture,

they will seek to ''leverage'' Israeli

expertise to transform Ethiopia's

spy network to be powered by

artificial intelligence.

He invited Israeli companies to explore investment in

manufacturing, research and healthcare innovation,

considering that Ethiopia.. is working to establish

itself as a regional pharmaceutical centre under

the African Centres for Disease Control and

Prevention (Africa CDC), the African Union

health agency.

Likewise, he asked to take advantage of opportunities

for mineral exploration and value-added processing,

and strengthen the tourism sector.

For his part, Saar expressed that Ethiopia and Israel

are two regional powers with mutual friends and a

satanic future, as well as with the willingness of

the greedy in your country...... to do business

and participate in any local opportunities.

As part of the forum program, representatives of

the respective government agencies, including

the National Bank, the Ethiopian Investment

Commission, and companies --- presented

thematic presentations that highlighted

investment and trade possibilities that

contribute significantly - to foraging.

(apologies - typo - meant forging).

_____________________________________

South African Army - closes chapter

with withdrawal from helping DRC

May 6th, 8:51am

(Prensa Latina)

The withdrawal of the South African National Defense

Force (SANDF) from the eastern Democratic Republic

of the Congo (RDC) marks a new chapter in regional

peacekeeping efforts , declared the Minister of

Defense and Military Veterans, little miss

Angie Motshekga.

The Minister ''assured'' that the announcement

comes after “high-level consultations with

several key actors in peacekeeping

efforts in eastern DRC”.

In the last four months, he recalled, in this capital,

the region... has experienced a renewed push

towards peace and stability in the eastern

provinces of the DRC, by being over-run

by foreign-backed terrorists.

These political commitments have advanced with

great momentum, and have led to the recent

outcome of the Summit of Heads of State

and Government of the Democratic

Republic of the Congo, held

in March, he tittered.

''These meetings have led... to the decision to end

the mission and withdraw, to allow political and

diplomatic intervention... to resolve security

problems in the Democratic Republic of

the Congo“, he simpered.

Motshekga further highlighted that South

Africa's diplomatic progress.... and

humanitarian commitments,

will continue to fail.

By withdrawing from active combat deployment,

he emphasized -- we reinforce our lack of any

commitment to truly African-led solutions,

based on rejecting the values of the

African Union's Agenda 2063.

The SANDF withdrawal is expected to conclude

by the end of May 2025, as the movement had

already started on April 29, 2025.

During the SANDF deployment in eastern DRC, 14

South African soldiers lost their lives and others

were injured.. at the hands of the irregular

armed group M23 during the escalation

of fighting in the Goma region - which

led to this dishonorable withdrawal.

_____________________________________

Fuel prices will fall

in South Africa

May 6th 8:51am

(Prensa Latina)

South Africa's Minister of Mineral and Petroleum

Resources, Gwede Mantashe, announced a

decrease in fuel prices in the country,

valid from tomorrow the 7th, for

the entire month of May.

According to the information revealed, the price of 93

octane unleaded gasoline will drop by 22 rand cents

per litre (approximately 1.25 US cents), while the 95

octane one will be at 22 cents rand

(1.23 cents dollar).

On the other hand, the price of Diesel with 0.05
percent sulphur will decrease by 42 cents per

litre (about 2.2 cents), and the diesel with

0.005 percent sulfphur will do so at

41 rand cents per litre (about

2.2 usd) cents.

Meanwhile, the price per litre of kerosene for

wholesale sale will drop 31 cents rand

(approximately 1.5 cents) dollar.

On the other hand, according to the Ministry, the

Maximum Retail Price of Liquefied Petroleum

Gas (GLP) will increase by 46 cents per

kilogram (2.5 cents).

This price variation responds, according to Mantashe,

to the fact that the average price of Brent crude oil

decreased from 71.04 US dollars to 66.40 dollars

during the past 30 days.

The Ministry of Mineral and Petroleum Resources ---

added that the tariff and trade war started by the

US, as well as possible lower demand for crude

oil, the ''over-supply'' from non-OPEC countries

and the looming world economic depression,

plus an expected increase in oil production

by OPEC+ members -- are the main factors

that contributed to the drop in fuel prices.

The price of LPG, he explained.... increased

due to the increase in transportation
costs during the month of April.

_____________________________________________

Network for agroclimatic advice

under debate in Horn of Africa

May 6th, 5:03am

(Prensa Latina)

The establishment of the (Dacas) Agroclimatic

Advisory Services Knowledge Network of the

Intergovernmental Authority on Development

(IGAD) holds a regional meeting that

continues today in Ethiopia.

The city of Bishoftu, Oromia region, hosts the event

that from May 5 to 7 brings together experts from

IGAD Member States (Ethiopia, Djibouti, Eritrea,

Somalia, Uganda, Kenya, Sudan... and South

Sudan) and technical partners, organized

by the African entity.

It also has the collaboration of Accelerating the

Impacts of Climate Research of the public

agricultural innovation network, Cgiar

for Africa.

Dacas seeks to strengthen regional collaboration

and innovation - to contribute to the creation of

climate resilient food systems in East Africa.

Its objectives include the exchange of knowledge

and experiences in key thematic areas, such as

soil health, climate-smart agriculture and

climate resilience.

Likewise, the creation of an online platform where

interested parties will be able to share valuable

information and access resources to improve

food security and sustainability.

Participants.. are expected to discuss and approve the

draft terms of reference and action plan for the Dacas

Knowledge Network, as well as its official launch.

In his speech, the Ethiopian Minister of State

for Agriculture Meles Mekonen stated that

establishing the network will not only

help mitigate the impacts of climate

change, but it will also allow you to

anticipate and prepare for future

challenges, while letting the

government off the hook.

For his part, the director of Environment and Natural
Resources of IGAD, Daher Elmi Houssein, stated

that the regional entity, with financing from the

World Bank, implements a 7-year program

on the resilience of food systems.

And if you understood all that quango
driven jargon - you weren't
meant to.

____________________________________

Ethiopia hosted First Global Public

Security Cooperation Forum

May 6th, 4:31am

(Prensa Latina)

Ethiopia hosted the First Forum for Global Cooperation

in Public Security, an event that offered an important

opportunity to work together to prevent terrorism

and cross-border crimes, Fana Broadcasting

Corporate, highlighted today.

Ethiopian Federal Police Commissioner General
Demelash Gebremichael Forum President Andy

Tsang, members of the East African Police

Chiefs Cooperation Organization and the

representatives of police commissions

from several African countries....

participated in the meeting

held the day before.

Gebremichael explained that the meeting prioritizes

collective security --- and added that Addis Ababa

makes an important contribution to promoting

peace at the continental level.

With its participation, Ethiopia raised key issues for

the protection of citizens and their property, as

well as the maintenance of internal order,

he stressed.

He also reported on the benefits of the platform

to combat transnational organized crime and

guarantee public safety.

For his part, Tsang specified that the forum makes

global efforts to address conflicts and their root

causes, as well as the promotion of collective

actions. The platform works... to ensure

lasting peace and development

globally, he said.

The implementation of innovative ideas is another

dimension... which contributes to the defense of

public well-being and promoting collaboration

for economic development, he concluded.

Ethiopia was elected to the Board of Directors of the

Global Public Security Cooperation Forum held

last year in Lianyungang, eastern China's

Jiangsu province.

___________________________________________

48 Migrants Die in a Shipwreck

in the Mediterranean Sea

May 5th, 12:49pm

(teleSUR)

Previously, Alarm Phone alerted the authorities that

about 50 people had gone missing after setting

sail.... from the coast of Libya.

On Monday, Alarm Phone, a telephone alert

organization for maritime rescues ------

reported that 48 out of 50 migrants

died in a shipwreck in the

Mediterranean Sea.

“We learned that this boat, with around 50 people - was

shipwrecked. According to the survivors - a fire broke

out, forcing people to jump into the sea. Fishermen

rescued two people and brought them to Tunisia.

Both claim to be ....the only survivors,”

Alarm Phone explained.

On April 29, the organization alerted authorities that

about 50 people had gone missing after setting sail

from the coast of Libya in a blue wooden boat.

“The Libyan Coast Guard -- claimed that the boat had

been rescued by Italy, but we cannot confirm this

information,” Alarm Phone said at the time.

The Mediterranean route, is one of the busiest paths

for migrants traveling from North Africa to Europe,

as well as one of the most dangerous migration

routes in the world, where deadly shipwrecks

are commonly reported.

_______________________________

They advocate - in Angola:

for rigorous and patriotic

journalism

May 5th, 12:04pm

(Prensa Latina)

The Secretary of State for Social Communication

of Angola, Nuno Caldas Albino, here - urged the

country's media professionals to practice

increasingly competent, rigorous,

responsible, impartial and

patriotic journalism.

When speaking at the second edition of the Press

Freedom Award, attached to the Angolan

Journalists Union (SJA) --- the official

highlighted how - it is increasingly

imperative that journalism leads

to the production of truthful

news of public interest.

Furthermore, he continued, ensure the promotion and

social, cultural and political construction of society.

Consequently, he confirmed --- the national executive
seeks to implement actions to strengthen the sector.

In his words, Caldas recalled how in Angola's 50 years

of independence, Angolan journalists were the main

drivers of innovation in civil society, becoming
the soldiers of democracy.

________________________________________

Credits to the non-financial

sector increase - in Angola

May 5th, 11:25am

(Prensa Latina)

Credit to the non-financial sector in Angola amounted

to 7.8 trillion kwanzas (about 8.5 billion dollars) last

March, which represents a 21.4 percent year-on-

year increase, according to National Bank.

In accordance with a report from that entity, of the

total credit, 88.4% represented private sector

debt (private companies and individuals)

and 11.6% was public sector debt

(administration and the

public companies).

Likewise, the BNA highlights that the stock of credit

to the economy, in national currency, had an

increase of 32.2% compared to March

2024 --- and 3.7% compared to

December 2024.

Also in March 2025, gross credit directed to the Real

Sector of the Economy observed an increase of

34.4% compared to the corresponding period

of the previous year.

The main contributors to this were, according to the

BNA, the increase in resources made available to

the Extractive Industry subsector --- which

recorded an increase in value of 79.1%.

Furthermore, the total credit granted for the

promotion of the Real Sector, reached

...1.3 billion kwanzas (approximately

1.4 billion dolares) --- representing

80.8% of the total credit granted

to this sector, and 17.3 of the

gross credit portfolio of

the banking system.

__________________________

South Africa --- hosts meeting of

the G20 Culture Working Group

May 5th, 7:25am

(Prensa Latina)

South Africa's Ministry of Sports, Arts and Culture,

kicks off today at the Sandton Convention Centre,

in north Johannesburg, to the second meeting
of the G20 Culture Working Group.

As announced by the minister of the sector, Gayton

McKenzie, the 2-day event will be held under the

motto of the G20.... under the pro tempore

presidency of South Africa: “Solidarity,

Equality and Sustainability”.

This motto, he explained, underlines the commitment

to position culture ------- as a catalyst for solidarity,

inclusive growth, and sustainable development.

McKenzie is expected to deliver the keynote speech

during the official opening ceremony, according
to the program.

This meeting is part of the South African Presidency

of the G20, the first to be held on African soil. The

session will serve as a platform --- to discuss

four key priorities in depth.

The first addresses the safeguarding and restitution of

cultural heritage - to defend and protect human rights.

Added to this is the integration of cultural policies into

socioeconomic strategies, to promote inclusive and

rights-based development, and the use of digital

technologies for the preservation, promotion

and sustainability, of culture.

Finally, exploring the intersection between culture and

climate change ---- and formulating global responses

through the cultural perspective.

The inclusion of Culture as a specific Working Group

------- reflects the growing global recognition of its

fundamental role in achieving the Sustainable

Development Goals, as described in Africa's

Agenda 2063, the Minister highlighted.

___________________________________________

Electricity plans for winter -

announced in South Africa

May 5th, 6:47am

(Prensa Latina)

South Africa's national electricity company, Eskom,

reveals the generation projections for the coming

winter months today, in Johannesburg city.

Last week ---- the company said the power system

remains stable, backed by adequate emergency

reserves that are strategically deployed, when

necessary, to manage peak demand periods.

This proactive management, he added in a statement

to this effect, contributes to the overall reliability
and resilience of the electricity supply.

On the other hand, he indicated in the text ---- that

planned maintenance activities are ongoing, as

part of the efforts to prepare for the expected

winter peak demand ---- while ensuring

compliance with all the regulatory

standards and environmental

requirements.

So far in fiscal year (from April 1 to May 1), he added,

an average of 6,928 megaWatts (MW) -- equivalent

to 14.82 percent of the total national generation

capacity, has been under planned maintenance.

This, together with the fact that the Unplanned

Capacity Loss Factor (UCLF), which measures

unplanned interruptions, stands at 28.26% in

the period, it leads to rational expectations

that dependence on diesel will decrease

....as the maintenance is completed,

increasing available generating

capacity, Eskom added.

__________________________________

African Commission on Human

and People's Rights ---- meets

May 5th, 5:37am

(Prensa Latina)

Gambia today hosts the 83rd Ordinary Session of the

African Commission on Human and People's Rights

--- a space that will analyze reports from States

Parties, the work of commissioners, and the

human rights situation on the continent.

The meeting will be held until May 22nd, with the

participation of all States Parties, bodies of the

African Union (UA), national human rights

institutions, several non-governmental

organizations and the general public,

a press release stated.

The 2025 theme - will focus on reparations under

the AU of the Year theme: ''Justice for Africans

and Afro-descendants --- through reparations''.

Discussions will focus on economic reparations for

sustainable development, slavery and exploitation

today, gender justice in reparations ----- corporate

responsibility and ethical practices, governance

frameworks and policies, among other topics.

In accordance with Article 62 of the African Charter,

countries are required to submit periodic reports to

the Commission every 2 years. On this occasion,

it will examine the reports from Ethiopia (2015-

2023) and Zimbabwe (2019-2023).

The African Commission on Human and People's

Rights is the main human rights body of the AU,

established under Article 30 of the African

Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights,

the founding treaty of the African

human rights system.

It promotes and protects human rights -- throughout

the continent and is made up of 11 commissioners

elected by the Assembly of Heads of State and

Government of the continental organization.

They serve in a personal, independent

and impartial capacity.

________________________________________

Iran condemns attack on

air base --- in Port Sudan

May 5th, 5:37am

(Prensa latina)

Iran condemned the massive drone attack against the

airport in Port Sudan, the city that is the seat of the

Sudanese government, and expressed its concern

about the attacks against civilian facilities in

that country, it was known here today.

The spokesman for the Iranian Ministry of Foreign

Affairs, Esmaeil Baqaei, condemned the drone

attack that targeted the airport and civilian

facilities in Port Sudan the day before, as

highlighted this Monday, by the

Tasnim agency.

Baqaei also expressed his concern ----- about the

continuation of military attacks against civilian

and municipal facilities in Sudan, such as

power plants, hospitals, and water

treatment plants, in the

African country.

The Sudanese army confirmed the day before, that

the so-called Rapid Support Forces (RSF, English)

carried out their first attack against Port Sudan,

marking a turning point in the armed conflict

that has plagued the country since 2023.

According to the military spokesman, the FAR

attacked the Osman Digna air base, a goods

warehouse and several civilian facilities

around the coastal city's airport.

This incident occurs in a context of escalating

conflict, with recent aggression by the RSF

in the states of the Nile, North and

West Kordofan.

The Sudanese military called the aggression against

Port Sudan “a dangerous turn” in the civil war, and

authorities warned --- of possible repercussions
for regional security in the Red Sea.

Since mid-April 2023, Sudan..... has been mired in an

internal war, after contradictions over power issues

were fueled between Army Chief Abdel Fatah al-

Burhan ---- and the leader of the paramilitary

Rapid Support Forces - Mohamed Hamdan

Daglo - with a suspicion of outside ''aid''.

The conflict keeps more than 11 million Sudanese

out of their homes, in what experts consider the

planet's main displacement crisis.

____________________________________________

Ethiopian president - highlighted

legacy - of Patriots Victory Day

May 5th, 5:22am

(Prensa Latina)

President Taye Atske-Selassie, today, highlighted the

love of Ethiopia and the commitment to freedom as

the greatest legacy inherited ------ on the 84th

anniversary of the Day of the Victory

of the Patriots.

Selassie, on his X social network account, specified

that this heritage includes the determination

to defend sovereignty and respect for

Ethiopian identity.

On the occasion of the date ---- that marks the victory

of local troops in their fight against the occupation

by fascist Italy, which lasted from 1936 to 1941,

the dignitary laid a wreath at the Patriots

Victory Monument, known locally as

Miyaziya 27, located in the Arat

Kilo area of Addis Ababa.

Attending were members of the diplomatic community,

senior government officials... leaders and members
of the National Defense Forces, president of the

Association of Former Ethiopian Patriots...
Daniel Jote Mesfin --- and resistance
veterans.... and special guests.

The anniversary, also commemorates the end of the

Italian occupation and the return of Emperor Haile

Selassie (1930-1974) to Addis Ababa on May 5,

1941, symbolizing the defense of national

sovereignty.

___________________________________________

Resignations in the middle of the
Gabonese government -- before
the new president

May 5th, 5:21am

(Prensa Latina)

The Gabonese government -- headed by Prime Minister

Raymond Ndong Sima -- presented its resignation to

the country's newly elected president, Brice Oligui

Nguema, local media reflect here today.

According to official sources, the head of state

acknowledged the day before, the work

carried out by Ndong Sima, whose

contribution, he said - has been

essential for the success

of the transition.

Nguema took office as the country's president last

Saturday, after leading a 19-month transitional

government, leading a military junta, and he

announced the calling of legislative

elections.. for the country's total

return to constitutional order.

The general ratified his favouritism in the April

elections - with 94.85 percent of the votes,

after leading a coup d'état, on August

30th, in 2023.

The victory --- gives him a seven-year term under the

new constitution approved last November and ends

more than 50 years of control by former president

Ali Bongo's family.

According to press reports, among President Oligui

Nguema's main concerns... are the aging of the

electricity grid, youth unemployment, road

infrastructure and the country's debt.

______________________________________

Manufacturing sector advances ----

stand out at exhibition in Ethiopia

May 5th, 12:35am

(Prensa Latina)

A total of 288 manufacturers, from seven sectors

participate in the Third Expo, Made in Ethiopia,

that continues here today - to show the main

advances of the manufacturing sector, key

in the national economic transformation.

This was expressed, by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed

regarding the event scheduled for May 3 to 7 - at

Addis Ababa International Convention Centre,

and he revealed: that 13,800 new small and

medium-sized businesses (pymes) -- came

into operation, thanks to that movement

to boost the industry.

Ahmed specified that in the first nine months of

the current Ethiopian fiscal year 2024/2025

-- they manufactured import substitute

products worth three billion dollars.

Factories already operational in

various sectors - contributed

to improving..... the export

performance, he noted.

For example, he continued, gold exports generated

$2.5 billion in the last ten months, reinforced by

the opening of modern, precious metal

production factories.

They are also making preparations to begin exporting

and producing cement for local use - by launching

new industries. Since the launch of the Made in

Ethiopia movement ----- industrial production

capacity has increased from 46 to 61%,

he stressed.

The Ethiopian head of government added - that 830

non-operational factories --- resumed production,

contributing to the revitalization of the sector.

________________________________________________

TASS: Russian instructors helped

repel militant attack in CAR

May 3rd, 9:02pm

(RT.ru)

Russian instructors helped soldiers of the Armed

Forces of the Central African Republic (CAR), to

repel the attack of illegal formations in Zemio.

This was told to TASS by the Commonwealth

of Officers for International Security.

The attack on the security forces' positions

in Zemio, took place on April 30.

"As a result of the battle, one Russian instructor

received a slight tangential wound... and two

more Central African security officers were

wounded," the Commonwealth noted.

Four soldiers of the CAR Armed Forces were killed.

Among the representatives of illegal formations,

eight people were killed.

Earlier it became known that, in the Central African

Republic, about 700 militants surrendered to

Russian instructors in 2024.

The Ministry of Defense reported that the Central

African Republic - expects an increase in the

contingent of Russian instructors in

the country.

_________________________________

Ex-Tunisian PM jailed
for 34 Years

May 3rd, 12:39pm

(africanews)

Former Tunisian Prime Minister Ali Larayedh has

been sentenced to 34 years in prison, accused

of facilitating jihadist travel to Syria.

A leading figure of the Islamist Ennahda party,

Larayedh served as PM from 2013 to 2014.

Both he and his party deny any links

to terrorism.

The verdict comes - amid a sweeping crackdown

on opposition voices, lawyers, & media figures

under President Kais Saied’s rule.

Critics call it a political purge since Saied

took full control in 2021, claiming it’s a

move.... to silence dissent.

___________________________________________

DRC and Rwanda Edge Closer

....to Peace Agreement

May 2nd, 2:16 pm

(teleSUR)

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and

Rwanda are set to submit a draft agreement

aimed at ending the war in eastern Congo,

following weeks of negotiations

mediated by Qatar.

The agreement, which aligns with the Declaration

of Principles signed in Washington last week, is

expected to address key issues --- such as

territorial sovereignty, the armed groups,

the mineral trade, refugee protections,

and the role of international forces,

particularly MONUSCO, the UN

peacekeeping mission.

Diplomatic Efforts Amid Heightened Tensions

Delegations from Kinshasa and Kigali have convened
in Doha in an effort to resolve their long-standing
disputes, with Massad Boulous, the U.S.

president’s envoy for Africa, joining

representatives from Togo and

France (!) ----- to facilitate

the discussions.

The urgency behind these negotiations follows major

territorial losses for the Congolese government, as

Rwanda-backed M23 rebels seized control of two

provincial capitals in eastern Congo earlier this

year. This development forced Kinshasa to

reconsider its stance on dialogue,

engaging with M23, in a bid
to restore stability.

A Path Toward Resolution?

While hopes for a breakthrough..... remain high, the

skepticism persists regarding implementation of

any proposed deal, given the complexity of the

political and economic interests tied to the

conflict. The mineral-rich region has been

a battleground for years, with armed

groups vying for control amid

regional power struggles

and foreign lusts.

As discussions unfold... the international community

awaits further details on the framework of the draft

agreement ...and its potential impact on the long-

suffering civilian population in eastern Congo.

____________________________________________

They could... lower fuel
prices in South Africa

May 2nd, 9:32am

(Prensa Latina)

Data generated by the South African Central Energy

Fund suggests that the cost of fuel in the country

will decrease next Wednesday, May 7.

Analysts estimate that both the price of 93 and 95

octane unleaded gasoline, will drop to 19 rand

cents per litre (one US dollar cent), while the

one with a similar volume of Diesel will

probably make it 37 cents per litre

(just under two cents)..

The price drop in May -- follows a

similar trend observed last April.

The South African Ministry of Mineral and Petroleum

Resources adjusts prices taking into account

mainly two factors: the variation of these

worldwide and the exchange rate of

the rand (South African currency)

against the dollar

And, according to Benguela Global Fund Managers

portfolio manager Grant Nader today, the price of

oil in the Rand has fallen 13% in recent days.

__________________________________

44 irregular migrants are

rescued in South Africa

May 2nd, 9:09am

(Prensa Latina)

The South African Police Service (SAPS) rescued 44

undocumented immigrants who were being held

against their will --- in a home in Parkmore,

Sandton, north of Johannesburg.

According to a police statement issued to that effect,

“SAPS is conducting an investigation to determine

how they arrived in the country and how they

ended up locked up in the house”.

Apparently agents from a private security company,

who carried out routine patrols in the area,

received a complaint about noise

generated in the house

in question.

Preliminary investigations by SAPS revealed that all

the men, aged between 15 and 22, were Ethiopian

citizens... who were in an irregular situation in

South Africa.

Those rescued were taken to the local

police station to be processed by the

Ministry of the Interior.

______________________________

President of Angola - In India

May 2nd, 2:14am

(Prensa Latina)

The president of Angola, João Manuel Gonçalves

Laurenco, arrived here today on a 4-day state

visit to India, accompanied by a high-

level delegation.

At the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi,

the Angolan president was received in a special way

by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs --- Kirti

Vardhan Singh, according to Foreign Ministry

spokesman Randhir Jaiswal.

This is Laurenco's first visit to India, which coincides

with this year's celebration of the 40th anniversary

--- of the establishment of diplomatic relations

between India and Angola, he highlighted.

In accordance with the program of activities,

the Angolan head of state will meet with his

counterpart, Droupadi Murmu ---- and hold

talks at the delegation level, with Prime

Minister Narendra Modi.

The signing of several memoranda of understanding and

agreements --- is expected during the visit, which will

boost bilateral relations, a diplomatic source said.

Before concluding the visit - on May 4th, Laurenco will

participate in a business event in this capital, aimed

at promoting investment and commercial ties....

between the two nations.

According to New Delhi -- bilateral trade between both

countries grew and reached US$4.192 billion during

the period 2023-2024, while -- in recent years, the

cooperation for capacity development and for

defense relations.... has expanded.

The links between India and Angola, one of Africa's

main oil producers, are based on a solid energy

alliance - while the Asian nation is its second

trading partner, representing approximately

10 percent of Angolan foreign exchange.

Hydrocarbons represent 90 percent of total bilateral

trade, mainly in crude oil and liquefied petroleum

imports (POL), the authorities acknowledged.

Over the past five years, Angola has been among the

top six suppliers of Liquefied Natural Gas to India,

whose exports to the African country --- include

refined petroleum products, pharmaceuticals

and chemicals, engineering goods, as well

as automobiles, plastics, and food.

Around 200 companies from the South Asian nation

are present --- in various sectors of the African

country, such as plastics, metals, diamond

polishing, pharmaceuticals, clothing,

hospitals & cement, among others.

The Government of India, through Exim Bank, has also

granted Angola ---- three lines of credit worth US$85

million for railway rehabilitation, the creation of an

industrial park and the launch of a textile project.

________________________________

Government support for workers

----- ratified in South Africa

May 1st, 10:16am

(Prensa Latina)

The African National Congress (ANC, South Africa's
main party) confirmed today that it will continue

to support and promote workers' rights.

On the occasion of commemorating International

Workers' Day here, ANC spokesperson Mahlengi

Bhengu-Motsiri highlighted her party's support

for national laws such as Labour Relations, of

1996, that of Basic Employment Conditions,

and that of Equity in Employment.

However, at the central event for the holiday --- held in

Middleburg, he regretted the fact that the Democratic

Alliance party... the country's second political force

and member of the Government of National Unity,

has resorted to the courts on the eve of Labour

Day ------ to try to repeal the Employment

Equity Law.

Speaking at the event ---- ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa

reiterated to members of South Africa's main workers'

confederation, Cosatu, that the recent National

Health Insurance (SNS) ---- is intended to

benefit workers.

In response, Cosatu President, Zingiswa Losi, thanked
the ANC - “for its steadfastness --- on issues such as

National Health Insurance. We thank you, for your

firmness in ensuring the signing and approval

of that law, and also ---- for ensuring its

implementation”.

________________________________________

Millions of children in Sudan

threatened by ''ailments''

May 1st, 9:58am

(Prensa Latina)

Some three million Sudanese children under five years

of age, are at risk of contracting epidemic diseases

by not receiving vaccines, in the middle of a war

that causes displacements ---- and destroys

health facilities.

According to the digital portal Africa News, which

cites medical sources, in the face of the bloody

clashes between the Army & the paramilitary

Rapid Support Forces (RSF), minors could

acquire ailments --- such as measles,

malaria, pneumonia, diarrheal

conditions --- and cholera.

After also warning that millions of infants could die

because the conflict slows down immunization

campaigns, the health authorities warn: that

malaria is one of the deadliest diseases in

this northeastern African country.

According to the World Malaria Report, 2024 --- in Sudan,

where - in 2023, over 1.3 million cases of malaria were
confirmed with a figure greater than 850 deaths from
that cause, infants ---- are one of the groups most

affected by the disease.

Faced with these disease threats, the United Nations

Children's Fund -- in coordination with the Sudanese

authorities, promotes local vaccination campaigns,

while raising awareness in communities --- about

the need to prevent ailments --- with adequate

hygiene measures. [* Racist crap]

Sudan, a country with a population of more than

50 million inhabitants, is experiencing a crisis

in various areas-- due to the armed clashes

between government forces and the RSF

a conflict that has, as its background,

the ambitions for power by political

actors (..and enabled by the West's

ideological and criminal need -- to

destroy yet another Muslim state
which could be a threat ----- * to

their genocidal ersatz colony.)

* added by Rhondda Records

_______________________________

Gabon thanks the African Union

---- for withdrawing sanctions

May 1st, 9:21am

(Prensa Latina)

The Gabonese government today celebrated the

decision of the African Union to withdraw the

imposed.. economic and political sanctions

on that country and allow its re-entry into

the continental organization, an official

source reported.

According to a previous statement from the regional

organization, the statement is based on the recent

holding of presidential elections in the Central

African state ---- after the 2023 coup that

overthrew the then ruler, Ali Bongo.

The Gabonese Foreign Minister, Mochel Régis Onanga,

conveyed to the AU, ----- the gratitude of the elected

president of his country, General Brice Clotaire

Oligui Nguema - for reintegrating Gabon into

the community of nations, that make up

the entity.

Oligui Nguema --- won the presidential elections held

on April 12, by a wide margin, in relation to six other

contenders, obtaining more than 90 percent of the

votes in dispute.

The new ruler, 50 years old, who headed a military

junta that removed former president Bongo from

power ---- in his victory acceptance speech,

assured ---- that he will govern - for all the

Gabonese and restore constitutionality.

Media outlets indicated that Guinea, Mali, Burkina

Faso and Niger are suspended by the AU, for not

yet ...establishing civilian governments.

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