African organization ---- in
solidarity with Venezuela
January 5th, 1:19pm
(Prensa Latina)
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)
today expressed its solidarity with Venezuela after it was
attacked by the United States and urged the world to
respect the independence and territorial integrity
of that South American country.
Through a statement, the subregional organization made these
statements after last Saturday United States military forces
attacked the territory of the South American state and
kidnapped the president, Nicolás Maduro, and his
wife, the first combatant, Doctor Cilia Flores.
In the document, the bloc of 15 member nations of ECOWAS also
expressed its support for the Venezuelan population -- “as they
build the future of their country through an inclusive process”.
ECOWAS defended, in this context, that in accordance with the
Charter of the United Nations, States must refrain from
resorting to the threat or use of force against
other nations.
Various African countries, including Namibia, Burkina Faso, Liberia,
Chad, Angola, Niger, Gambia and Burundi, sent messages of
support to the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela,
according to statements by Venezuela's
chancellor, Yvan Gil.
Political experts also considered that Venezuela is a victim of
US attacks due to its natural resources, such as oil, and its
privileged geopolitical position.
__________________________________
Deaths increase to 50 in Nigeria
after anonymous market attack
January 5th, 11:09am
(Prensa Latina)
The death toll in western Nigeria rose to 50 today as a result of
an armed attack against a market by unidentified elements,
which happened on Saturday, television media reported.
According to these sources and the digital portal Africa News,
while several injured people are treated in hospitals, and
other civilians remain kidnapped by alleged bandits,
the fatal victims were buried in a mass funeral.
According to witnesses to these events, armed men unexpectedly
broke into the Kasuwan Daji shopping centre in the state of Niger,
opened fire on residents, kidnapped people and stole food.
After the tragedy, last Sunday the Nigerian president, Bola Ahmed
Tinubu, through a statement --- ordered the Army, the Police and
the rest of the security agencies to capture those responsible
for the lethal attack, and release the hostages.
The president indicated in the document that the terrorists have
tested the determination of the country and its people with
their criminal actions ---------- and must be confronted.
In the heat of a growing climate of violence, Nigerian security
forces are carrying out operations in cities in the north and
centre of the country ----- to annihilate alleged bandits
and ''radical'' groups.
_______________________________________________________
Electromagnetic spectrum control,
national security for Ethiopia
January 3rd, 12:07pm
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopia formally elevated control of the electromagnetic
spectrum to the level of an existential national security
priority, it emerged today at the first Electronic Warfare
Workshop in the African country.
Organized at the headquarters of the Information Network
Security Administration (INSA), the event met under the
theme “Domination of the electromagnetic spectrum
for national sovereignty” and brought together
leaders of important peace, security and
intelligence institutions.
At the opening of the meeting, the chief of the General Staff
of the National Defense Forces, Field Marshal Birhanu Jula,
declared that electronic warfare is no longer optional
in modern defense planning.
He emphasized that, in the 21st century, sovereignty depends
not only on the control of land, air, sea and space, but
increasingly on the invisible electromagnetic domain.
He further noted that the nature of war and power
competition ...is evolving rapidly.
He warned that conflicts are now shaped by who can control
communications, radar and electronic signals, making the
electromagnetic spectrum a decisive factor ----- in
determining victory or defeat.
Given Ethiopia's size and complex regional security environment,
he described effective spectrum management as essential to
the country's long-term survival and stability.
For her part, the general director of INSA, Tigist Hamid, explained
that geopolitical competition expanded beyond traditional
military and cyber domains in that radiation range.
Hamid specified that the workshop aims to strengthen national
understanding of this emerging battlefield, build reliable
superiority and improve institutional preparedness.
He considered that the presence of leaders from multiple security
institutions reflects Ethiopia's commitment to addressing modern
threats through coordinated science-based approaches.
Meanwhile, the director general of the National Intelligence
and Security Service, Redwan Hussein, stressed that
modern national security is defined less by troop
numbers or weapons stocks and more by
technological advantage.
He emphasized -- early information acquisition, spectrum
control, and the ability to deny adversaries access to it
as decisive strategic tools.
The electromagnetic domain allows for faster decision
making and provides a critical advantage in defensive
and offensive operations, he concluded.
The panelists stressed the need to appoint leading
authorities for spectrum management, invest in
research and development, as well as deepen
inter-institutional coordination - to protect
the present and future sovereignty
of Ethiopia.
_____________________________________
African Union in solidarity with Venezuela
in the face of US aggression
January 3rd, 10:30am
(Prensa Latina)
The African Union (AU) today expressed its solidarity with the
people of Venezuela, it reiterated the commitment to
promote peace and mutual respect between nations
and regions after the United States aggression
against that South American country.
In an official statement, the AU revealed that it “follows with
deep concern” recent events in Caracas, including reports
of the kidnapping of President Nicolás Maduro, as well as
military attacks against Venezuelan institutions.
It reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the fundamental
principles of international law, including respect for the
sovereignty of States, their territorial integrity and the
right of peoples to self-determination, as established
in the Charter of the United Nations.
The African continental organization stressed the importance
of dialogue, the peaceful resolution of disputes and respect
for constitutional and institutional frameworks, in a spirit
of good neighbourliness, cooperation and peaceful
coexistence between nations.
He insisted that “the complex internal challenges facing
Venezuela can only be addressed sustainably through
inclusive political dialogue --------- among the
Venezuelans themselves”.
The African Union urged all parties concerned to show restraint,
responsibility and respect for international law to avoid any
escalation and preserve regional peace and stability.
This Saturday, the United States directed attacks on different
parts of Venezuela in an operation during which it kidnapped
Maduro and took him to US territory to be tried in its courts
on alleged charges of narcoterrorism.
The US president, Donald Trump, in a press conference on this
same day, made clear the interests in Venezuelan oil and the
threats to other countries that do not continue along the
path approved by the White House.
_________________________________________
They - repudiate State terrorism
applied to Venezuela in Angola
January 3rd, 10:05am
(Prensa Latina)
The Committee of Solidarity with the Nicaraguan People in Angola
(Casonicsa) today repudiated the United States aggression
against Venezuela, which it classified as state terrorism
with imperialist interests.
Casonicsa condemned “strongly, categorically and emphatically”
the serious events that occurred this Saturday, characterized
by the “aggression, invasion and violence” directed by
Washington against the Bolivarian Republic.
He maintained in a statement that these actions are the maximum
expression of US imperialism, which “historically uses force,
intimidation and violence to subjugate sovereign peoples
.........who refuse to obey their geopolitical and
economic interests”.
They emphasized that this is not only a direct aggression against
Venezuela, but an attack against all the free peoples of Latin
America, the Caribbean, Africa and the world, who defend
self-determination, independence ---- and the right to
choose their own political path.
“We reject any attempt to legitimize this aggression under false
speeches of ‘democracy’, ‘security’ or ‘freedom’. There is no
democracy, built with tanks, illegal prisons, kidnappings of
elected leaders and foreign military intervention, violating
the sovereignty and dignity of Venezuela and its people,
international law and the free will of the people”,
he noted.
The document demanded the immediate cessation of aggression
and hostile propaganda against the South American nation;
respect for its sovereignty and territorial integrity; the
immediate release of President Nicolás Maduro and
his wife; and accountability - for the perpetrators
of this criminal aggression.
“Casonicsa reaffirms its unconditional solidarity with the
Venezuelan people, its historical resistance and fight
against imperialism”, the message stated... and
considered it a symbol of dignity and the fight
for sovereignty and the fundamental right to
forge their own destiny, free of pressure
and interference.
In Luanda, the Association of the Cuban Community Resident
in Angola (Accra), the Angolan Committee of Solidarity with
Bolivarian Venezuela (Casoveb) and the Angolan
Friendship League, Solidarity and Peace
(Laasp) also condemned the attack
on Venezuela.
This Saturday, the United States directed attacks on different
parts of Venezuela in an operation during which it kidnapped
the country's president, Nicolás Maduro, and took him to US
territory to be tried in a US court ...........on alleged
narcoterrorism charges.
However ---- the US president, Mr Donald Trump, in a press
conference on this same day, made clear US interests in
Venezuelan oil and threats to other countries that do
not continue...... along the path approved by the
White House.
________________________________________
South African communist party
condemns US attack
on Venezuela
January 3rd, 8:51am
(Prensa Latina)
The South African Communist Party (SACP) today, strongly
condemned the United States military aggression against
Venezuela and the kidnapping of the legitimate president,
Nicolás Maduro.
In an official statement issued to this effect, the political
organization described the action of Donald Trump's
government as a criminal act --- and a flagrant
violation of international law.
In the text, the SACP expressed its indignation at what it
called an «act of international piracy», after reports
became known that the Venezuelan constitutional
president, Nicolás Maduro, and his wife --- were
forcibly removed from the country by the
US military.
The military action, according to the party, constitutes the
culmination of a series of threats and hostile rhetoric by
the North American administration against the South
American nation.
In the document, the SACP emphasizes that this unilateral
aggression criminally violates articles 1 and 2 of the
United Nations Charter, which enshrine respect
for sovereignty, the legal equality of states
and the prohibition of the use of force.
The party warned that the illegal operation puts the lives of
millions of Venezuelans at serious risk - and threatens the
stability of the entire Latin American & Caribbean region.
For the SACP, the clear and declared objective of this invasion
is to force a regime change for imperialist purposes, seeking
to seize Venezuela's strategic resources, particularly its oil
and minerals.
This action is part, according to his analysis, of a long history
of US interventionism against sovereign governments that
defend their right to self-determination.
In the statement, the South African Communist Party expressed
its total and unconditional support for the Venezuelan people
and their legitimate right to defend their territorial integrity,
their independence and their national sovereignty.
He also reiterated his support for the Venezuelan government's
call ----- to the people and governments of Latin America, the
Caribbean and the entire world, to act in active solidarity
in the face of this imperialist aggression.
The political organization also made an urgent call for an
international mobilization to demand the immediate
cessation of all military operations in Venezuelan
territory, the safe return of President Maduro
and absolute respect for the popular will
expressed at the polls.
Finally, the SACP affirmed that only the unity and organized
resistance of the people can defeat American hegemonic
pretensions - and guarantee peace with social justice.
______________________________________
Cubans residing in Angola -------
reject US attack on Venezuela
January 3rd, 7:17am
(Prensa Latina)
The Association of the Cuban Community Resident in Angola
(Accra) today expressed its most energetic repudiation of
the “vile attack perpetrated by the United States against
the brave people of Venezuela”.
Through a statement released on its social networks, Accra
rejected any form of intervention that threatens the
sovereignty, peace and self-determination
of peoples.
“The recent acts constitute a serious violation of international
law and a direct threat to regional stability”, the organization
stated in the note, where they reiterated solidarity with the
people of the South American nation, who have
demonstrated courage and resilience in the
face of external and internal challenges.
“We urge the international community to respect the
independence of States and promote peaceful and
diplomatic solutions, based on dialogue and
mutual respect”, the text added.
Accra affirmed that it will continue working for a united,
sovereign continent --- free of aggression that violates
the dignity of nations.
In Angola, the Angolan Committee of Solidarity with
Bolivarian Venezuela (Casoveb) also strongly
condemned the United States aggression,
for constituting a serious violation of
the principles of the UN Charter.
The organization rejected these acts contrary to
international law ---- the sovereign equality of
States, and non-interference in the internal
affairs of other nations --- and called for
dialogue, solidarity cooperation, and
respect for the self-determination
of peoples.
Casoveb, condemned any form of coercion, intimidation
or hegemonic imposition and expressed “full, fraternal
and internationalist solidarity with the Venezuelan
people, with the Bolivarian Government and
with its legitimate institutions”.
“We urge the Member States of the African Union, the ALBA
countries, to the partners of the BRICS and the nations of
the Non-Aligned Movement and to the social movements
of the world to speak out clearly and responsibly”, it
added ------ referring to the statement of the
Angolan organization.
They also called for promoting constructive diplomatic
initiatives and strengthening a multipolar, inclusive
international order ---- based on universally
agreed norms.
Likewise, the Angolan League of Friendship, Solidarity a
nd Peace (Laasp) condemned the attack --- and called
on international organizations, to unite: in defense
of peace.
___________________________________
Building collapse
reported now in
Nairobi, Kenya
January 2nd, 1:26pm
(Prensa Latina)
At least four people are trapped under rubble after the collapse
of a building under construction in the capital of Kenya, a
government source reported today.
“We suspect four Kenyans are trapped. Relief teams are making
a lot of effort to rescue them”, said Public Service Cabinet
Secretary, Geoffrey Ruku, at the site of the collapse.
When referring to the possible causes.. of the fall of the property,
the official maintained that apparently construction regulations
were violated, because “the developers had approval to build
a 12-story building, however, they added 2 additional levels,
which increased the risk of structural failure”.
Local television, for its part, noted that building collapses
are common in Nairobi, a city with a high demand for
housing --------- and where real estate developers
frequently violate construction regulations.
Only 10 years ago, in the Kenyan capital, the collapse of eight
multi-story buildings was reported --- events that caused the
death of 15 people & several injuries, authorities indicated.
_________________________________________
Senior paramilitary group
officer killed in Sudan
January 2nd, 1:15pm
(Prensa Latina)
A senior paramilitary Rapid Support Forces official in the Sudanese
region of Darfur, Hamid Ali Abubakar, was killed by a drone attack,
without the perpetrators of the incident being known, news
media reported today
The Sudan Tribune digital portal reported that in the attack,
which occurred in Zalingei, Central Darfur, together with
Abubakar, the advisor to the paramilitary entity..... and
the commander in chief of a so-called Revolutionary
Awakening Council and others of his companions
- also died.
According to the media, on December 30, tribal leader Habib
Musa Hilal had accused Abubakar of fomenting internal
tribal divisions ...at the behest of the Rapid Support
Forces (RSF) leadership.
This fact occurs when the Army, under the command of
General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, and the RSF have
clashed in Sudan since April 2019, led by
General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo.
Recently, the Secretary General of the United Nations, António
Gutérres, urged both contenders to put an end to armed
confrontations through dialogue, which to date has
left thousands dead .....and created the largest
humanitarian crisis in the world in Sudan.
_________________________________
Elections in the Congo ---
will mark the year 2026
January 1st, 9:57am
(Prensa Latina)
The president of the Congo, Denis Sassou-N'Guesso, highlighted
the importance of the presidential elections scheduled for
March 2026, as a sensitive and determining moment,
and he called for its realization... in harmony.
In his message to the country regarding the new year that begins
today, the president reflected that the elections are a meeting
of the people -- with the polls and with modern democracy.
Voting is a fundamental civil right, a moral duty, said the head of
state, adding that through suffrage citizens ensure the proper
functioning of democracy in the country.
“This is an achievement for which the people mobilize in order to
achieve their fundamental demands”, he added and called to
keep the nation united, free and prosperous, starting from
making elections based on that principle of unity, fair
play and serenity.
Sassou-N'Guesso called for placing the interest of the Congo first,
since the country - is the greatest common good, he emphasized.
The president wished health and prosperity to all families,
dedicated words of encouragement to people who suffer,
and he invited both nationals and foreigners living in
Congolese lands.... to continue working towards
a more prosperous nation.
_______________________________________
Investments and reforms ----
boost aviation in Zimbabwe
January 1st, 9:47am
(Prensa Latina)
Zimbabwe registers a substantial rebound in its airline sector,
driven by million-dollar investments in infrastructure, greater
connectivity and diplomatic agreements, stated the
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure.
According to an official statement on the subject, the modernization
of the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, completed in
2023 with an investment of 153 million dollars, constitutes the
central pillar of that resurgence.
This work increased passenger capacity to six million annually
and included a new VIP Pavilion and the remodeling of the
domestic terminal.
As a direct result, passenger traffic grew by approximately 8.2%
in the first nine months of 2025, reflecting greater confidence
in domestic air transport.
The Ministry highlighted --- that this project is part of a
comprehensive strategic modernization of the sector.
In parallel, critical updates were executed
to the security and navigation systems.
Likewise, in 2025 ----- a new communications system for Air
Traffic Control and a Secondary Surveillance Radar were
commissioned, equating national capabilities with the
most rigorous international standards.
The development also extends to regional
airports, according to the text.
The rehabilitation of Grand Reef Airport in Mutare, presented
during the Sanganai/Hlanganani tourism fair... in September
2025, enhances the synergy between aviation and tourism.
The inauguration of the Harare-Mutare air route has also
boosted economic and tourist activity in the province
of Manicaland.
On the other hand, air connectivity experienced a
notable expansion, the Ministry continues in
the statement.
Air Tanzania established a strategic route linking Dar es Salaam,
Victoria Falls and Cape Town. In addition, Air Zimbabwe and
Fastjet added new routes and increased the frequency of
weekly flights, both domestic and international.
Diplomatically, Zimbabwe strengthened its profile, by hosting high-
level events such as the International Civil Aviation Organization
(ICAO) Africa-Indian Ocean Week in May 2025, and the 36th
Regional Meeting of the International Federation of Air
Traffic Controllers Associations (IFATCA)
These meetings positioned the country as
an emerging hub in the region, says
the ministry.
The progress made, he continues, is consolidated with the signing
of seven Bilateral Air Services Agreements, which open new
markets and establish reciprocal transportation rights.
On the regulatory front, the promulgation of the Amendment to the
Civil Aviation Law and the review of 45 legal instruments seek to
liberalize the sector, harmonizing it with the African Single Air
Transport Market.
Finally, in the text, the Ministry assured that the robust growth
of the airline sector is identified as a key enabler to achieve
the tourism goal of 10 billion dollars in income, by 2030.
________________________________________
South African authorities warn ------
of a red tide on the western coast
January 1st, 7:59am
(Prensa Latina)
South Africa's authorities alerted the population not to
consume seafood collected on the western coast of
the country, due to a toxic red tide.
In this regard... the Ministry of Forestry, Fisheries and the
Environment (DFFE), confirmed the massive appearance
of white clams, sea snails and other dead mollusks on
the beaches of St Helena Bay and Elandsbaai.
According to the official ministerial statement, the specimens
found show signs of paralysis before dying, which prevented
them from being buried in the seabed, being then dragged
to the shore by the currents.
This phenomenon is attributed to the presence of a proliferation
of harmful algae, commonly known as red tide, which releases
paralyzing neurotoxins ------ that are extremely dangerous for
human consumption.
Unlike other previous similar events, this algal bloom is colourless
and is not detectable with the naked eye, which increases its
danger. Toxins can bio-accumulate in shellfish tissues,
making them highly toxic.
In the text, the DFFE was emphatic in pointing out that all filter
species, including clams, mussels and oysters, obtained in
the affected area – whether collected on the beach or
extracted from the sea – should be considered unfit
for consumption.
“Ingestion of these contaminated shellfish carries a significant risk
to human health”, the Ministry warned, urging the public to follow
instructions and refrain from any collection or consumption.
These algal blooms are common on South African coasts during the
summer and autumn months, favoured by specific oceanographic
conditions. However, the toxicity of each event.... is variable.
The authorities recommend that citizens obtain information only
through official channels and discard any seafood of unknown
origin or from the affected coastal area in the last few hours.
_________________________________________
Digital civil and family registration
drive transformation in Ethiopia
January 1st, 12:02am
(Prensa Latina)
The effective implementation of digital civil and family registration
----- plays a central role in the basis of digital transformation, the
governance framework and the national identification system
promoted today in Ethiopia, highlighted an official source.
The Director General of the Citizenship and Immigration Services (ICS),
Selamwit Dawit, explained that this tool is a critical facilitator of the
country's broader change journey ....and a key mechanism to
improve the delivery of public services to citizens.
Dawit specified that the data collected will contribute significantly to
the development of a national identification system and will support
the formulation of evidence-based policies in all sectors.
He emphasized -- that all relevant stakeholders should assume their
responsibilities to ensure the proper and effective implementation
of the registry and maintain the strong progress achieved.
Highlighting the importance of collective effort, he considered close
coordination and collaboration... to be essential to successfully
complete those initiatives, with the Ethiopia Digital Strategy
2030 providing critical direction and support.
The director general of the ICS further stated that the system
contributed significantly -- to improving national security and
facilitating the international movement of Ethiopian citizens.
He revealed that they are currently working to overhaul the existing
paper-based registration system and replace it with a modern,
integrated digital platform. In this regard, he recalled the
recent implementation in Addis Ababa of a civil and
family registry..... developed by the Institute of
Artificial Intelligence.
The latter created connectivity from the central level
to the district level (woreda), and the applications
used were a local innovation.
_________________________________________
Foreign competitors --- dominate
the San Silvestre race in Angola
December 31st, 2:22pm
(Prensa Latina)
Djibouti athlete Aden Ivabem was the winner of the 69th edition
of the San Silvestre de Luanda race, where Kenyan Valentina
Rutto, took the award among women.
Ivabem, who distanced himself from the others from the beginning
of the competition, covered the 10 kilometre circuit in 28 minutes
and nine seconds, with which he was crowned in the fair and
took home the prize of three thousand 500 dollars.
He was followed on the men's podium...... by his compatriot
Mouftar Ismil (28:26) and the Kenyan Sadrack Curri (28:59).
The San Silvestre race, in the capital of Angola, started at 6:00 p.m.
local time, with a circuit that began at Largo de la Mutamba and
traveled through various parts of the city --------- to the
Coqueiros Stadium.
The Angolan Athletics Federation (FAA), organizer of the event,
expected the participation of some 6,500 national and foreign
participants, the latter representatives from eight nations,
a figure that has not yet been confirmed.
Before the race...... a five-kilometre family walk took place, which
began in the Port of Luanda and ended at the Coqueiros Stadium.
The 2025 edition repeated the winning countries, since again, in the
men's branch an athlete from Djibouti took the victory, while in the
women's branch - an athlete from Kenya did; however, the
competition record remains held by Eritrean Zersenay
Tadese, with a time of 27:44.
_______________________________________________________
Sebastián Sawe: The
man who runs alone
by Boris Luis Cabrera
December 31st, 1:38pm
(Prensa Latina)
In 2025, Kenyan Sebastián Sawe turned the asphalt into his own
territory and made it clear that the world marathon throne has
a new name, written in long, silent strides.
There are runners who wait for the moment - and others who make it.
Sawe belongs to the second lineage. His is not an epic of boasting,
but of fierce patience, of held breath.... until the body, that ally
trained to the limit, says enough for others, and not for him.
This season, the calendar learned to pronounce his last
name twice, with reverence: in London and Berlin.
Its definitive emergence - arrived in the capital of the United Kingdom.
Under a sky that seemed to be watching him with a magnifying glass,
Sawe waited..... like someone hiding a knife in his sleeve. When the
others still believed in the truce, he attacked after 30 kilometres,
skipping a drinking station as if fatigue were not with him.
There, where the marathon begins to take its toll, he ran the cruelest five
kilometres in 13:56 minutes and turned the murmur.... into certainty. He
crossed near Buckingham Palace in 2:02:27 hours, alone, one minute
ahead of Jacob Kiplimo - leaving the defending champion behind. It
wasn't just his first Major victory: it was a declaration of principles.
If London was the proclamation, Berlin was the confirmation with a
steel seal. In Phoenix City, Sawe set off at world record pace,
escorted by pacesetting hares - and ambition.
The heat, unexpected and treacherous, was responsible for erasing
chronometric utopias. Not the certainties. At 24 degrees, when the
records began to evaporate, he continued pushing. He was left
alone before 25 kilometres, with no company other than the
clamour of the sidewalks ---- and his own discipline.
He won in 2:02:16 hours, best mark of the year, and accepted the limit
with the serenity of someone who understands - that greatness is not
always in breaking marks, but in holding command. Three marathons
three victories: Valencia 2024, London 2025, Berlin 2025. All three
in under two hours and three minutes. A perfect trilogy that places
him in -- the most demanding conversation in the world, the one
that, after the tragic absence of Kelvin Kiptum, seeks an heir
to challenge the two-hour barrier. Sawe is not quick to
claim crowns; He prefers to win them kilometre
by kilometre, like someone who builds ...
without noise.
There is also a silent epic outside the stopwatch. In times where
Kenyan athletics coexists with suspicions, Sawe also decided
to run against the shadows: he requested 25 surprise anti-
doping controls during his preparation for Berlin. It was
not a publicity gesture, but a posture. “I want my
effort not to drag through the mud”, he said.
In an injured sport, he chose evidence.
His personality is similar to his stride: sober, direct and stubborn.
He doesn't look for the focus; it attracts him. He trained in the
patience of the half marathon - was world road champion in
2023 and reached 42.195 kilometres with the skill learned.
In 2025, World Athletics, named him Male Athlete of the
Year ...outside the stadium. This recognition did not
change it; it confirmed it.
Sawe runs as if he hears an old voice reminding him that the
marathon is not won at the beginning or the end, but at the
exact point where the body wants to surrender and the
will refuses.
This year, London and Berlin witnessed that intimate pact.
The rest of the world, too: when Sebastián Sawe
accelerates, time does not argue. It obeys.
____________________________________________
Military forces in Nigeria --
arrest suspected terrorist
December 31st, 1:32pm
(Prensa Latina)
Nigerian troops today captured an alleged suicide bomber - and
intercepted materials intended for the production of explosive
devices in the northern state of Borno, a military
source reported.
The operation, carried out in the local area of the Government of
Bama, was carried out in collaboration with security agencies,
indicated the Army Information Officer. Lieutenant Colonel
Sani Uba.
The arrested suspect, whose name is Abubakar Mustapha, was
found in Banki's Central Mazquita in possession of explosive
devices, the source said.
Uba reported that the detainee is being interrogated to discover his
sponsors, collaborators and possible links with terrorist networks
in the region. The aforementioned arrest occurs after on the
24th of this month a suicide bomber killed five people
and injured another 35 in the Al-Adum Jumaat
mosque, in the city of Maidiguri.
Within the framework of Military Operation Hadin Kai, the Nigerian
Army carries out operations in this territory against the group
considered terrorist, Boko Haram, which attacks military
and civilian targets.
_____________________________________________________
Obesity and malnutrition
.........coexist in Africa
December 31st, 1:31pm
(Prensa Latina)
A new study published in the journal PLOS One reveals
that obesity in adults is increasing in many African
countries, often accompanied...... by
persistent malnutrition.
Such coexistence generates an increasing double burden of
malnutrition, with serious health, social and economic
consequences, the study added.
The 10 countries with the highest prevalence of obesity are South
Africa, Eswatini, Seychelles, Algeria, Mauritania, Lesotho, Gabon,
Botswana, Mauritius and Namibia, and the last 10 states include
Ethiopia, Madagascar, Eritrea, Rwanda, Burundi, Niger, Central
African Republic, Malawi, Democratic Republic of the Congo
and Sierra Leone.
South Africa had the highest prevalence (30.8 percent), followed
by Eswatini (30.1) and Seychelles (29.4), while Ethiopia (2.8),
Madagascar (4.3) and Eritrea (4.8) report the lowest rates.
The research also revealed that in almost all African
countries women showed a considerably higher
prevalence of obesity... than men.
In South Africa, the prevalence of female obesity was 45.8%,
compared to 13.9% in men --------- a difference of 31.8%.
Large disparities between sexes were also observed in Eswatini
(28.8), Mauritania (26.1), Lesotho (24.2), Equatorial Guinea
(21.8) and Seychelles (19.4).
Only a few countries, such as Burundi, Chad and Madagascar,
showed a negligible or slightly higher obesity prevalence
for men.
The study provided comparable, sex-disaggregated estimates of
obesity prevalence in adults, with a body mass index (BMI) of
30 or higher in 47 African countries.
Data were obtained from the World Health Organization's
Health Equity Assessment Toolkit, which covers people
aged 18 years and older.
______________________________________________
South African president addresses
country's challenges, in
new year message
December 31st, 10:06am
(Prensa Latina)
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa today urged national
unity to overcome persistent challenges, in the country in his
end-of-year message ---- addressed to the nation.
In his speech on the occasion, the president recognized the serious
difficulties faced by millions of citizens, including unemployment,
poverty, inequality and gender violence... that mainly affects
women and children.
In this regard, he highlighted the burden represented by the high cost
of living for households and the insufficient provision of basic
services in many communities. «We recognize these
difficulties clearly», he stated, guaranteeing that
the population's struggles are known to
his Government.
Despite this reality, Ramaphosa outlined a series of economic and
social advances that, according to his analysis, cement a more
optimistic future.
Thus, he highlighted the economic recovery, the decrease in the
inflation rate, the strengthening of the local currency and the
improvement in the country's sovereign credit rating.
An emblematic achievement, he noted, is the interruption of rotating
power outages (load shedding) for several consecutive months,
thanks to the stabilization of the state company Eskom.
He also highlighted improvements in the railway
network, ports, and record investment --- in
infrastructure for the next 3 years.
In terms of employment, he highlighted the creation of hundreds of
thousands of positions through presidential stimuli and alliances
with the private sector, focused especially on youth. The fight
against corruption, defined as an «absolute priority», has
made it possible - to recover billions of rands (hundreds
of millions of dollars) through the work of specialized
investigation units.
At the international level, the President highlighted the prestige
recovered by South Africa after presiding over the G20 Summit,
the first on African soil, which ensured that the voice of the
continent and the Global South was heard.
In addition, he made an urgent call to the country's men to eradicate
gender violence and femicide. «Our nation is like a river fed by
many tributaries. We can diverge, but we always
converge», he expressed --- as a metaphor
for the necessary unity.
Finally, he expressed his conviction that in the coming year
the country will be strengthened --- in the construction of
the dreamed of South Africa.
____________________________________________________________
Cuba & Equatorial Guinea celebrate
53 years of diplomatic relations
December 27th, 3:21pm
(Prensa Latina)
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cuba today reaffirmed its
willingness to work to maintain ties of cooperation and
strengthen political-diplomatic relations with
Equatorial Guinea.
This was stated by the Foreign Ministry on the social network
X regarding the commemoration of the 53rd anniversary of
the establishment of diplomatic relations between both
countries, established on December 28, in 1972.
Both nations maintain close ties of cooperation, which have
been characterized by strong collaboration in the health
and education sectors.
In March 2025, during the official visit of the island's Prime
Minister, Manuel Marrero - to Malabo, Cuba and Equatorial
Guinea updated their Cooperation Framework Agreement
and signed a protocol for the implementation of the
Binational Working Group.
At that meeting at the Presidential Palace, the president of
the African nation, Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo,
highlighted the importance that Cuba attaches to
Africa ---- and recognized the work of Cuban
doctors and educators in his country.
_______________________________________
Iran says Israel’s recognition of Somaliland
aims to destabilize Red Sea, Horn of Africa
December 27th, 2:39pm
(PressTV)
Iran has strongly condemned the Israeli regime’s
blatant violation of Somalia’s territorial integrity
and national sovereignty by recognizing the
self-declared Republic of Somaliland
as a sovereign state.
The office of Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu
said on Friday that Tel Aviv has formally recognized
Somaliland.... as an "independent and sovereign
state" and signed an agreement on building
ties between the two entities.
Israel recognizes Somaliland as state,
drawing international condemnation
The Israeli regime -- has announced the recognition of the
so-called Republic of Somaliland, which is a breakaway
from Somalia, as a "sovereign state."
In a statement on Saturday, Iranian Foreign Ministry
spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said Israel grossly
violated Somalia’s territory and integrity
--- through efforts to advance the plot
to disintegrate the Muslim country.
He added that the Israeli move is a clear violation of
the fundamental principles of the United Nations'
Charter - and international law.
The Iranian spokesperson stated: that Israel’s “malicious”
act is part of its broader policy of destabilizing regional
states and intensifying insecurity in both the Red Sea
and the Horn of Africa.
Baghaei reiterated Iran’s principled stance on the necessity
of respecting Somalia’s national sovereignty, coherence,
and territorial integrity.
He said Iran supports the firm stance of the Organization
of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the African Union
in condemnation of Israel’s recognition.
The OIC General Secretariat on Friday expressed its strong
condemnation and categorical rejection of Israel’s move,
considering it --- a violation of the sovereignty of the
Federal Republic of Somalia, its national unity,
and its territorial integrity.
The African Union also said on Friday it "firmly rejects"
Israel's move, warning, “Any attempt to undermine
the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of
Somalia...risks setting a dangerous precedent
with far-reaching implications for peace and
stability across the continent."
Baghaei urged the international community -- to take
decisive action to counter the “expansionist and
threatening” action ------ of the occupying
Israeli regime.
Somaliland, which is a breakaway from Somalia, has
been a target considered for the forced relocation
of Palestinians ---- by the Zionist regime. It has
maintained self-rule...... since the 1991 civil
war, but has yet to win world recognition.
Somaliland ----- is located along the Gulf of Aden and
is home to the deep-water strategic port of Berbera.
The Israeli regime reportedly plans to build a military base
in Somaliland, which would enable it to gain control over
the Gulf of Aden, where it can launch attacks on the
Ansarullah-led government in Yemen.
_________________________________________
UN renews ceasefire call: as over
200 civilians killed in RSF ethnic
attacks in Sudan’s Darfur
December 27th, 1:58pm
(PressTV)
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called
for an immediate ceasefire in Sudan following reports of
ethnically motivated mass killings by the Rapid
Support Forces (RSF) in Darfur.
Guterres made the appeal on Friday, warning that civilians are
facing “immense, unimaginable suffering” as the conflict
escalates in the war-torn Darfur and Kordofan regions.
The plea came days after Sudan’s Prime Minister Kamil Idris
presented a peace plan to the UN Security Council,
advocating for the disarmament of the RSF
and a ceasefire monitored by the UN.
‘Stand on the right side of history’: Sudan’s PM
urges Security Council to endorse initiative
to end war
Sudan’s prime minister has called on the UN to support his
ceasefire plan to end the country’s devastating war.
However, the RSF rejected the proposal as
“wishful thinking.”
Meanwhile, the Sudan Doctors Network reported that over
200 people, including women and children, were killed in
RSF attacks on the towns of Ambro, Abu Qamra, and
Sirba, in Darfur.
Citing testimonies from survivors who sought refuge in
displacement camps near the Sudan-Chad border, the
group said civilians are “deliberately” targeted and
killed on an ethnic basis, describing the assaults
--------- as a serious violation of international
humanitarian and human rights law.
The RSF has not yet responded to these allegations.
Sudan’s paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have
buried and burned hundreds of civilians in al-Fasher
to conceal evidence of genocide, local medics say.
The latest violence comes as the RSF pushes to seize
control of North Darfur, posing a threat to the last
escape route for civilians fleeing to Chad.
Since the conflict erupted in April 2023 amid a power
struggle between the army and the RSF, it has
resulted in the displacement of over 14
million people, leading to a severe
humanitarian crisis and
''contributing'' to the
spread of disease
and famine ---- in
parts of Sudan.
Sudanese authorities have repeatedly said the RSF receives
unwavering support from the UAE. Khartoum has filed a
case against the UAE at the International Court of
Justice (ICJ) over its "complicity in genocide"
through military, financial, and political
backing for the RSF.
________________________________________
US launches airstrikes on Nigeria,
citing unsubstantiated claims
of anti-Christian violence
December 26th, 10:07am
(PressTV)
The United States has launched airstrikes in northwest Nigeria,
with President Donald Trump casting the attack as a response
to alleged anti-Christian violence — an assertion Nigerian
authorities and analysts have long rejected, as a
misleading pretext for military action.
The strikes, which Trump announced late Thursday, were presented
as a blow against an African branch of Daesh, which he said had
carried out large-scale violence against Christians in Nigeria.
“Tonight, at my direction as Commander in Chief, the United States
launched a powerful and deadly strike against ISIS terrorist scum
in Northwest Nigeria, who have been targeting and viciously
killing, primarily, innocent Christians, at levels not seen for
many years, and even centuries!” Trump said, on
social media.
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the attacks
targeted Sokoto State and were carried out in coordination
with the Nigerian authorities.
“This has led to precision hits on terrorist targets in Nigeria by
airstrikes in the North West,” the ministry said in a post on X,
while not confirming Washington's claim of persecution
of Christians.
The US Department of War later released footage
showing the launch of the airstrikes.
Last month, Trump had spoken about his country’s intention to
attack Nigeria, saying the US “may very well go into that now
-disgraced country, ‘guns-a-blazing,’ to completely wipe out
the Islamic terrorists who are committing these horrible
atrocities” against his “cherished Christians!”
The cooperation comes despite repeated objections from
Nigerian officials to framing the country’s security crisis
as religious persecution.
Authorities have said armed groups target both Muslims and
Christians and that US claims of systematic anti-Christian
violence oversimplify a complex conflict driven by
criminality, local grievances and long-
standing instability.
Last month, Nigeria’s president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, said
the characterization of Nigeria as a religiously intolerant
country - did not reflect reality.
“The characterization of Nigeria ---- as religiously intolerant
does not reflect our national reality, nor does it take into
consideration - the consistent and sincere efforts of
the government to safeguard freedom of religion
and beliefs for all Nigerians,” he said.
Nigeria is roughly divided between a mostly Muslim north
and a mostly Christian south. Analysts say Nigeria’s
situation has long roots in the region’s history.
In some parts of the country, Muslim herders
and Christian farmers compete
over land and water.
Another pretext for the US conducting strikes against Nigeria is
the increasing kidnappings of priests and pastors for ransom.
However, experts suggest this trend is motivated more by
criminal gain than religious discrimination, as these
religious leaders are seen... as influential figures
whose followers or organizations can quickly
raise funds.
While human rights groups have urged the Nigerian government
to do more to address unrest in the country, which has
experienced deadly attacks by Boko Haram and
other armed groups, experts say that claims
of a “Christian genocide” are false
and simplistic.
Trump, who positioned himself as the “candidate of peace” in 2024,
campaigned on the promise of extraditing the US from decades of
“endless wars”. However his first year back in the White House
has been notable for the number of military interventions
overseas, with strikes on Yemen, Iran, Syria and others,
as well as a huge military buildup in the Caribbean
targeting Venezuela.
__________________________________________
Influx of tourists and business
travelers to Zimbabwe - rises
December 25th, 1:04pm
(Prensa Latina)
Zimbabwe recorded a 15 percent increase in international
visitor arrivals during the third quarter of 2025, driven
primarily by business travelers and tourists.
In this regard, the National Statistics Agency (ZimStat)
reported the entry of 520,751 foreign visitors between
July and September, compared to 454,043 in the
same period in 2024.
Arrivals for business reasons experienced a notable
increase of 43 percent, going from 82,454 to
118,496 people.
On the other hand, tourists, who constitute the largest
group, totaled 256,143, which represents an increase
of 18 percent.
By including returning residents, total arrivals to
the country reached 1,381,554 people in the
quarter analyzed.
On the topic, the general director of ZimStat, Tafadzwa
Bandama, recalled that these international migration
statistics are fundamental for national planning and
policy formulation, since they contribute to
estimating population growth... and
quantifying migratory flows.
The strong rebound in business travel underlines Zimbabwe's
greater international insertion, against a backdrop of macro-
economic stability and an improving business environment,
attributed to favourable government policies.
However, the report showed falls in other categories.
Thus, visitors for educational reasons plummeted by 76%,
to just 2,438, while those who arrived for purchases only,
decreased by almost 19 percent.
The report further reveals that the majority of visitors,
58.9 percent, came from African nations, equivalent
to an increase of 21 percent year-on-year.
South Africa consolidated itself as the main source market,
with 77,541 visitors, followed by Mozambique (53,995)
and Zambia (47,792).
Travelers from Europe and America made up 17.1
and 10.2 percent of the total, respectively.
The country aims -- to achieve a tourism economy of 10 billion
dollars by 2030. This goal is based on the success of having
exceeded the previous goal of five billion in 2024.
The pillars of this growth, according to the statistical entity,
include heritage tourism, taking advantage of strategic
sites such as Victoria Falls and Greater Zimbabwe,
improvements in airport and road infrastructure,
and, intensive marketing and a new sectoral
policy for the period 2025-2030.
In 2024, Zimbabwe generated more than $1.2 billion in tourism
revenue, welcoming more than 1.6 million international
visitors, and it attracted investments of over 190.5
million dollars.
_________________________________________________
They prepare a San Silvestre race
in Angola
December 25th, 10:29am
(Prensa Latina)
Angola is preparing today the 69th edition of the San Silvestre
race, to be held on December 31 in Luanda, with the
participation of national runners, and runers
from 12 other countries.
The president of the Angolan Athletics Federation, Bernardo
Joao, said that to date - the presence of athletes from
Ethiopia, Gambia, Guinea Bissau, Morocco, Eswatini,
Djibouti, and Kenya, has been confirmed, as well as
Mozambique, Lesotho, Malawi, Brazil and Portugal.
The race will have a route of 10 kilometres - and will award three
prizes to both sexes, consisting of 3,500 US dollars for the first,
2,500 for the second and 1,500 for the third.
In the Master category, the first classified (male & female)
will receive 500,000 kwanzas each, around 456 dollars.
Next week, the arrival of the foreign
participants, is expected in Luanda.
____________________________________
They designate 13.5 million dollars
for a humanitarian emergency
in the DRC
December 25th, 8:14am
(Prensa Latina)
Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher, says $13.5 million
has been allocated -- to address the worsening humanitarian
impact of conflict-induced displacement in the east of the
Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
The money comes from the United Nations Central Emergency
Response Fund (CERF) and around $10 million, will be
distributed for the provision of immediate life-saving
assistance in the DRC, & 3.5 million to strengthen
urgent response initiatives in Burundi, it is
reported today.
According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination
of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) -- since the beginning of
December, the escalation of the armed conflict in
the province of South Kivu, has caused the
displacement of approximately
500,000 people.
This has generated numerous refugee families in overcrowded
public spaces and settlements... or with overwhelmed host
communities; while some 85 thousand people arrived in
Burundi, including Congolese refugees and
Burundian returnees.
The movements of recent days... have overloaded an already fragile
system, with border posts and transit centers operating at almost
double their capacity, where people face severe shortages of
food, water, shelter, protective services and medical care,
OCHA detailed.
“New CERF funds will support the most vulnerable displaced and
host communities in the South Kivu and Tanganyika provinces
of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, focusing on vital
programmes”, he detailed in the note.
He added that in Burundi additional resources will be allocated
to stabilizing conditions in reception centres, reducing
overcrowding, and supporting relocations to the
Bweru settlement, while providing vital help.
________________________________________
Year-on-year inflation in
Zimbabwe falls to 15%
December 24th, 12:23pm
(Prensa Latina)
Year-on-year inflation of the ZiG currency in Zimbabwe fell
to 15 percent in December, the lowest rate recorded
since its introduction in April 2024.
As revealed today by the National Statistics Agency (ZimStat),
the Consumer Price Index (CPI) measured in ZiG showed a
year-on-year increase of 15% until December, which
represents a reduction of 4% compared to the
previous month.
This figure consolidates a sustained downward trend - and
reflects significant progress in the objective of stabilizing
domestic prices... after annual inflation reached peaks
above 95% in the middle of the year, the entity adds.
Likewise, the monthly data for December remained contained
at 0.2%, without variation, compared to November.
The statistical agency detailed that the prices of food and non
-alcoholic beverages increased by 0.6 percent monthly, while
inflation of non-food products remained stable at 0%.
Local economic analysts consider that the year-on-year trend
is the most relevant indicator to evaluate stability, especially
after the strong inflationary rebounds experienced in the
third quarter of 2025.
The current slowdown is attributed to a series of more
coordinated and focused monetary and fiscal policy
measures, implemented by the government and
the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ).
The central bank had set a goal of bringing annual inflation
below 20% by December of this year, relying on restrictive
monetary policy and foreign exchange earnings.... to
sustain stability.
The ZiG coin, launched in April last year, faced initial pressures
that brought its year-on-year inflation to 85.7% in April 2025,
peaking at 95.8% in July. However, the pace of price
growth slowed rapidly thereafter, standing at
32.7% in October.
Officials maintain that the consolidation of this downward trend
has restored stability and is regaining market confidence in
the new currency - which is anchored in gold and foreign
exchange reserves.
_________________________________________________
South Africa ...closes 2025 with
economic and social advances
December 24th, 9:59am
(Prensa Latina)
South African Vice President Paul Mashatile today highlighted
national achievements during 2025 and urged unity in his
Christmas message to the nation.
On the occasion, Mashatile listed several economic progress
achieved this year, including Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
growth of 0.5 percent in the third quarter, marking the
third consecutive expansion.
In this regard, he recalled, the International Monetary Fund (IMF)
revised upwards its forecasts for the South African economy,
placing them at 1.3 percent for 2025, and 1.4 for next year,
which reflects a positive impact of the structural reforms
implemented, in accordance with the Government.
He noted as a milestone the improvement in the credit rating
granted by Standard & Poor's --- the first in two decades, an
indication of renewed confidence in international markets.
In the social sphere, he highlighted the incorporation of 200,000
young people to initial work experiences through the Youth
Employment Service, a key initiative to empower
new generations.
Among the achievements of the administration, the government
leader mentioned the containment of the energy crisis, the
recovery of the tourism sector, better tax collection and
the successful presidency of the Group of 20 (G20).
The G20 summit, held in November, was a historic moment for South
Africa and the African continent, allowing them to advocate for the
priorities of the Global South and strengthen international
alliances, Mashatile said.
The vice president also referred to -- the fight against Gender Violence
and Femicide (GBVF), classified as a national disaster last November.
This decision, he stated, marks the beginning of intensified action
to protect lives and restore dignity.
On the topic, he called for building safe environments in homes,
schools and communities, where women and children
are free of violence.
Finally, in his national message he reaffirmed the African principle of
Ubuntu —»I am because we are»— as the basis of social cohesion
and the collective ability to overcome adversity, asking for
solidarity with those most in need.
By 2026, Mashatile assured that the Government will continue to drive
inclusive development, improve service delivery, support livelihoods
and expand opportunities for South African youth.
________________________________________________
They reinforce road safety in
South Africa during holidays
December 24th, 9:21am
(Prensa Latina)
South African authorities intensify road controls after registering
137 deaths in accidents, during the first 21 days of December,
the Department of Community Safety of the central province
of Gauteng reported today.
The province, the most populous in the country and which
includes Johannesburg and Pretoria, faces an increase
in traffic due to the end-of-year festivities, which
increases the risk on the roads.
Of the total deaths, 68 were pedestrians,
26 drivers and 28 passengers.
According to the official statement, the Johannesburg municipality
reports the highest number with 38 deaths, followed by Tshwane
with 33 and Ekurhuleni with 26. Faced with this situation, the
provincial government increased the deployment of law
enforcement operations.
Actions focus especially on public transport operators, such as
taxis and buses, where deliberate overloading of vehicles is
common. This practice, classified as a crime, endangers
passengers and other road users.
Gauteng's Ministries of Community Safety and Roads and
Transport coordinate the implementation of the road
safety strategy.
In particular, high traffic volumes are expected on major domestic
routes, such as the N1, N3, N4, N12 and N14, due to family and
holiday travel. Roadblocks are already being carried out,
resulting in more than 44 thousand fines imposed.
In these operations, some 1,200 suspects were
also arrested for various traffic violations
and 28 pedestrians.
Operations will continue throughout the festive
period and beyond, to ensure safe travel.
___________________________________
G20 is Word of the Year
in South Africa 2025
December 24th, 7:29am
(Prensa Latina)
The term "G20" was selected today as the 2025 Word of the Year
in South Africa, announced the Pan-South African Council of
Languages (PanSALB).
According to an official statement to this effect, the designation
reflects the deep mark left on the country by the presidency
and venue of the Group of 20 summit, held last November,
a global event that dominated the national public debate.
The winning word prevailed over other significant candidates
such as «Government of National Unity», «Tariffs»,
«Femicide» and «Madlanga Commission», in a
process organized by PanSALB in
collaboration with the media
research company
Focal Points.
For the selection, the frequency of use of words and terms
in prestigious print, digital and audiovisual media was
analyzed, from January 1 to December 2025.
«‘G20’ emerged as the most prominent keyword, due in large part
to South Africa hosting the G20 summit in 2025. These terms
capture the main events and problems that shaped South
Africa in 2025», the institution explained in the text.
In the Social Media Word of the Year category, the winner was
«Valid», a Generation Z slang that denotes that something is
acceptable, legitimate.... or deserves approval. This word
surpassed other popular candidates on digital platforms
such as «Hao Khonahale», «Nonchalant», «Clock it»,
«Nodolozana» and «Ama1k».
The verdict highlights the influence of youth and digital culture
on contemporary language. «Valid» is commonly used to
validate someone's feelings, opinions or experiences,
meaning agreement or support.
Meanwhile, the Sign of the Year in South African Sign Language
corresponds to the sign for «I Love You», which competed
with the signs for ‘so great’, ‘magnificent’
and ‘Constitution’.
The Pan-South African Language Council stressed in the document
that the Word of the Year acts as an essential indicator of the
nation's cultural and social landscape, reflecting the
concerns and issues that caught the attention
of South Africans during the period.
The PanSALB is a constitutional body charged with creating
conditions for the recognition and implementation of
multilingualism in South Africa, and the
development ..........of previously
marginalized languages.
____________________________________
WFP in DRC requested
$67 million ---------- in
emergency funds
December 24th, 6:23am
(Prensa Latina)
The World Food Program (WFP) requested $67 million in emergency
funds for assistance in the next 3 months in South Kivu
province, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC),
Radio Okapi, reported today.
The UN agency made the request due to the increase in violence
in this area, as a result of the advance of the rebels of the
Congo River Alliance-March 23 Movement (AFC/M23).
However, the food insecurity situation in the DRC requires much
more financing, according to the WFP, 350 million dollars are
needed to continue its operations in the country.
According to the agency, in South Kivu province alone 2.8 million
people face acute food insecurity ---- including almost a million
who are in an emergency situation; the crisis, furthermore....
“it risks getting worse if urgent measures are not taken”,
warned WFP interim representative in the DRC,
Cynthia Jones.
“Without emergency aid and additional funding, we cannot respond
to a crisis that is on the brink of a food catastrophe”, she stressed.
_____________________________________
DRC government classified support
for the rebels ......as manipulation
December 24th, 6:05am
(Prensa Latina)
The Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo
catalogued the marches in support of the rebels of the
Congo River Alliance-March 23 Movement (AFC/M23)
as “political manipulation and collective
hostage taking”.
Through a statement released today by the local press, the
government spokesperson and Minister of Communications
and Media, Patrick Muyaya, said that the population of the
east of the country ---- is forced to organize displays of
support for the insurgents - and reject the pressures
that demand their withdrawal.
The note expressed its rejection of these practices, which they
consider were implemented during the marches registered in
Uvira on December 16, Kamanyola on December 19, Goma
on December 22, and Bukavu and Sake the day before.
They considered that forcing civilians, including women and youth,
to participate in demonstrations in support of an illegitimate
foreign military presence is unacceptable; in addition to
constituting psychological manipulation of the
local communities.
The statement noted that the use of civilians as human shields or
propaganda tools seriously undermines national sovereignty and
constitutes a crime against human dignity.
Likewise, he reaffirmed the Government's commitment --- to the
ongoing peace processes and the protection of the population.
_________________________________
Turkish Interior Ministry..... confirmed the
discovery of wreckage of crashed plane
December 23rd, 9:12pm
(RT.ru)
Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed the discovery
of the wreckage of the plane carrying the Libyan delegation
that crashed near Ankara.
He wrote about this on social media.
"The wreckage of the plane that departed from Esenboga Airport
in Ankara in the direction of Tripoli was discovered by our
gendarmerie units two kilometres south of the village
of Kesikkavak in the Hayman district,"
the statement said.
Earlier, Türkiye confirmed that in the plane that crashed
near Ankara was the Chief of the Libyan General Staff
--- General Mohammed Ali Ahmed Al-Haddad.
___________________________________________
An Armed Gang in Nigeria ---
kidnaps 28 Muslim pilgrims
by Alexey Merkulov
December 23rd 5:46pm
(Rossiyskaya Gazeta)
To share
Armed men kidnapped 28 people, including women and children, who
were traveling to an annual Islamic event in Nigeria's central Plateau
State. Local police officials told the BBC about the incident.
The attack took place on Sunday evening, when a bus carrying
passengers was attacked. Alfred Albo, a spokesperson for the
local police, said that the authorities had "deployed
resources" in the area to rescue the
kidnapped passengers.
The news came the day after the Nigerian authorities announced the
release of the remaining 130 students and teachers from a Catholic
boarding school in Niger State, where one of the country's largest
kidnappings took place. The federal government described it as
a "moment of triumph and relief."
A journalist from the Plateau state told AFP - that the families of the
kidnapped people.... have started receiving ransom demands. The
police have not revealed the identity of the possible perpetrators.
Kidnappings for ransom by criminal gangs known as "bandits" have
become commonplace in northern and central Nigeria. Although
paying ransom is illegal, many cases are resolved in this way
...allowing the gangs to receive money.
This incident is not related to the long-standing Islamist insurgency
in northeastern Nigeria, where groups have been fighting the
government, for over a decade.
Recently, the security issue in Nigeria has attracted international
attention following US President Donald Trump's threat to send
troops to the "now-shamed country" with "guns blazing,"
accusing it of persecuting Christians. The Nigerian
federal government has acknowledged the
security concerns but has denied any
deliberate targeting of Christians.
On Monday, the Information Minister Mohammed Idris, said that
the recent tensions with the US over security and the alleged
persecution of Christians were "mostly resolved," leading to
a strengthening of relations with Washington. He added
that trained and equipped units would be deployed to
protect the forests and remote areas of Nigeria
that are used by criminals as hideouts from
the operations of the country's regular
armed forces.
____________________________________
The Malian army has destroyed four terrorist
bases in Niaré-du-Sahel in the west of Mali
by Alexey Merkulov
December 23rd, 5:38pm
(Rossiyskaya Gazeta)
To share
The Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) have destroyed four terrorist
bases in the Nioro-du-Sahel region in the west of the country.
The army announced this in a press release.
FAMa clarified that the bases were
located near the regional capital.
"On Monday, December 22, 2025, FAMa aircraft carried out strikes
on the bases of armed terrorist groups in the Niort-du-Sahel
region," the military said in a statement. According to the
military, the operation to destroy four terrorist bases
was carried out as part of the escort of a convoy
of fuel tankers.
"The air force also struck several positions of armed
terrorist groups in Kolondié and Wakoro,"
FAMa added.
Earlier in December, Mali's Armed Forces destroyed
several terrorist bases in the Sikasso and
Timbuktu regions.
_____________________________________________
Ibrahim Traore warned of an attempt to
--- repeat the "Arab Spring" in Africa
by Alexander Gatsak
December 23rd 5:08pm
(Rossiyskaya Gazeta)
To share
Burkinabé President Ibrahim Traoré --- has pointed to the possibility
of a repeat of the "Arab Spring" scenario in Africa. The president's
comments came during a summit of the Alliance of Sahel States,
a community that is fiercely fighting for its independence from
external neo-colonial influence.
As Traoré noted, the events of 2010-2012 shook the geopolitics of the
Middle East and North Africa, leading to catastrophic consequences
in many cases. He urged the continent's inhabitants to "wake up"
and prevent such developments.
According to the leader of Burkina Faso, West Africa and the ideology
of Pan-Africanism itself are threatened by the "Black Winter" - which
is caused by the ambitions of imperialists from former metropolises.
Here, the president is primarily referring to France and Britain,
which, with the exception of a few territories, divided the
continent during the colonial period.
"We should unite and protect ourselves. We are moving forward
calmly ------- and will achieve our goal," said Ibrahim Traoré.
Recall that the "Arab Spring" was marked by a number of revolutions,
civil wars, uprisings and protests that took place under cliched
slogans about "protecting democratic values". Then --- as a
result of mass unrest, hundreds of thousands of citizens
were killed.
______________________________________________
Lack of funds compromises care
for refugees in Ethiopia
December 22nd, 9:10am
(Prensa Latina)
The Refugee and Repatriate Service (RRS) of Ethiopia and
United Nations agencies warned today that the lack of
financing puts the response to more than 1.1 million
refugees in the country in danger.
A joint statement from the RRS, the United Nations High
Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the World
Food Program (WFP) specified that, without an
immediate injection of funds, essential life-
saving services, including food, water
and healthcare, will cease
within weeks.
The text specified that.... Ethiopia, the second largest
host country for these people in Africa, registered
an increase in arrivals due to the conflicts in
Sudan and South Sudan, as well as the
drought in Somalia.
However, he added, severe funding shortfalls --- have
already forced aid agencies to reduce emergency
aid supplies by 70 percent in 2025.
RRS Director General Teyiba Hassen said Addis Ababa
fulfilled its commitments to protect refugees, but this
great responsibility cannot be borne by the
government alone.
“Our resources are stretched to the limit, and the pressure
on host communities is becoming unbearable. At this
critical time, immediate international support to
share this burden.... and avoid humanitarian
catastrophe is a necessity”, he asserted.
For her part, the UNHCR representative in the country,
Aissatou M.Ndiaye, assured that the current
situation -- is unprecedented and
deeply alarming.
“We have reached a critical moment where the choice we
make now will determine whether Ethiopia's refugee
response collapses, or becomes a model of
resilience, inclusion and long-term
solutions”, he stressed.
The statement reported that ---- last October, WFP had to
reduce food rations for 780,000 refugees... to just 40%
of the standard duty, providing less than a thousand
calories per day. Currently ----- only 70,000 newly
arrived refugees... receive full rations.
“We are urgently asking for 90 million dollars to
maintain operations for the next six months”,
declared the representative of that UN
program and country director,
Zlatan Milisic.
The cuts caused a sharp increase in malnutrition, which
now exceeds 15 percent in refugee camps, mortality
rates among newborns and children under one
year of age increased to 4.7% in 2025, and
admissions for malnutrition doubled
compared to last year.
WFP analyzes project that reducing rations from 60% to
40% will quadruple the number of families consuming
poor diets, from one in 10 households to four in 10.
______________________________________________
Construction costs --
increase in S. Africa
December 22nd, 27:48pm
(Prensa Latina)
Construction materials prices in South Africa
registered a year-on-year increase of 3.7%
in November --- with significant monthly
inflationary pressures in electrical
and metallic components.
According to the national statistical authority, Stats SA,
the Construction Input Price Index (CIPI) experienced
a monthly increase of 1.6 percent in the period,
highlighting pronounced increases in
specific sectors.
The 3.7 percent annual change reflects sustained
cost pressures for the construction sector.
Among the items with the highest monthly increases,
the statistical entity lists.. the group of electrical
installations stands out, whose index shot
up 4.0 percent.
That behaviour was mainly driven by the rise in prices of 7.9
mm copper bar (6.0 percent) and 99.7 EC grade aluminum
products (4.3 percent cent), raw materials with a
combined weight of 70% in that area.
Similarly, the index for aluminum metal roofs rose 3.9%,
influenced almost entirely by the same increase in the
price of aluminum. These data confirm considerable
tension in the markets for basic non-ferrous metals
for the industry.
On the other hand, adds Stats SA, other
segments presented decreases that
moderated the general index.
Thus, the ceiling category fell 1.4 percent, due to drops in
the prices of ceiling plates (-1.9 percent) and steel for
light sections (-7.2 percent).
Likewise, the brick and block masonry group fell 2.5%
affected by a 5.5% drop in the price of clay bricks.
On the other hand, the index for mining and construction
machinery registered a year-on-year increase of 4.4%
with a minimal positive monthly variation of
0.1 percent.
In the field of engineering, inputs for electrical engineering
showed strong pressure, with a year-on-year increase of
8% and a monthly jump of 4.2% in November, the
highest of all monitored segments.
Civil engineering materials, for their part, maintained
monthly stability, although they have accumulated
an increase of 7% in the last twelve months ---
which indicates significant inflation in this
sector..... in the medium term.
Sector experts pointed out --- that the marked divergence
between the prices of electrical and metallic materials
...compared to the stability or fall in other items,
reflects the current global dynamics of raw
materials and specific supply chains.
__________________________________________________
South Africa foreign trade prices
with divergent trends
December 22nd, 5:56m
(Prensa Latina)
The unit value index of South African exports showed
year-on-year growth of 5.5 percent in October,
while imports fell 0.2 percent in the
same period.
In this regard, the national statistics agency, Stats SA,
revealed favourable price dynamics for the products
that the country sells abroad, contrasting with a
relative reduction... in the cost of the goods
purchased. In monthly terms, the export
index advanced 0.4% from September
to October, while the importer fell
0.9%, the entity detailed.
According to its most recent report, the metal
products, machinery and equipment sector
emerged .....as the main driver of the
increase in exports.
This item contributed 6.5% to the total year-on-year
result of 5.5%, registering an increase of 13.8%
in its unit value. It was also the biggest driver
of the monthly increase, up 1.3 percent.
On the import side, adds Stats SA, the negative evolution
was led by the fall in crude oil prices, whose decrease
of 13.4% in the last year subtracted 1.1% from the
general index.
Other transportable goods also had an impact, with a year-
on-year decrease of 1.6%. That same group was the main
factor in the monthly contraction of 0.9%, decreasing
by 1.3% between September and October.
According to local analysts, the divergence of the analyzed
indices suggests an improvement in the terms of trade for
the South African economy in the period analyzed, which
constitutes a positive factor for the trade balance.
The authorities expect that the trend in non-
traditional exports will remain a pillar of
the national economic recovery.
________________________________________
Elite police force, example of
Ethiopian security reforms
December 22nd, 4:53am
(Prensa Latina)
Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh affirmed today that
the creation of an elite force endowed with specialized and
strategic capabilities within the Ethiopian Federal Police is
powerful testimony of the reforms undertaken in security.
This was expressed by Tiruneh, on his social networks after
participating the day before in the graduation ceremony of
the Command Police (Elite Police Force), the first to
receive complete training from the Academy of
that command for internal order with its
institutional resources.
“Through comprehensive and sustained reforms, the Ethiopian
Federal Police has been transformed into a professional and
modern institution: a firm guardian of constitutional order,
highly competent in both operational experience and
advanced technology and firmly rooted in the trust
of the people it serves”, he asserted.
He assured that this elite force has unique capabilities to quickly
and decisively neutralize complex and constantly evolving
security threats.
He stressed the crucial responsibility to prevent and suppress
terrorist activities and serious crimes that endanger national
sovereignty, peace, and the security of our citizens.
He expressed confidence in his historic mission to guarantee the
peaceful, democratic and credible holding of the next national
elections scheduled for June 1, 2026, as well as the success
of international and continental events such as the 32nd
United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP32)
in 2027.
“To the graduates of this elite force: you are symbols of the unity and
sovereignty of the Ethiopian people. I entrust to you the solemn duty
to safeguard the nation and its constitutional order ---- against any
threat, with unwavering loyalty, discipline and professionalism”,
he concluded.
________________________________________________________
Angola values Russia-Africa
partnership --- positively
December 20th, 4:49pm
(Prensa Latina)
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Angola, Téte António, today
positively valued the Russia Africa alliance, speaking at the
Second Ministerial Conference of the Russia-Africa
Partnership in Cairo, Egypt.
The chancellor considered that the meeting is an important
institutional step towards consolidating comprehensive
cooperation between both parties, focused on the
implementation of the 2023-2026 Action Plan,
the expansion of trade, investments and
technical cooperation.
This partnership opens a new perspective for greater economic
integration and multidimensional development opportunities,
the minister noted ....according to the Angolan Foreign
Ministry, and he added that Angola is interested in
strengthening bilateral and regional relations.
In this sense, he expressed the country's openness
to new investments, economic projects and long-
term technical cooperation.
The Second Ministerial Conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership
brought together foreign ministers and other high-level African and
Russian representatives---- to assess progress and encourage full
implementation of the 2023-2026 Action Plan, which provides for
cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, the economy,
security, energy, education and technology.
During the meeting, participants addressed the need to promote
the growth of trade and investment, as well as address issues
of security, peace and stability.
They also discussed issues such as economic integration
and sovereignty; development of technical capabilities
and technology transfer; and the development of
infrastructure and education.
_________________________________
President of Angola... expresses
regret over death of patriot
December 20th, 8:20am
(Prensa Latina)
The president of Angola, Joao Lourenco... today expressed
condolences to the family of the nationalist Fernando da
Piedade Dias dos Santos, whose death occurred last
Thursday in Luanda.
The president indicated in the message that he received the
news with surprise and dismay, and highlighted the figure
of “Nandó”, as he was known, who stood out as a fighter
for independence and for his performance in national
political life.
“He always defended the best interests of the Angolan people
with zeal and competence”, Lourenço remarked and detailed
the important positions he held in the service of the Angolan
State, such as those of Minister of the Interior, prime
Minister, Vice President of the Republic, and
President of the National Assembly.
“His charisma, sense of justice and good manners earned him
the consideration of both his peers and his adversaries, with
whom he always maintained a cordial and respectful
relationship despite his different points of view”,
the head of state emphasized.
''It means that his loss leaves a void in Angolan public life, that
will be difficult to fill and ....we offer his family, subordinates
and colleagues, as well as his numerous friends, deepest
condolences and wish that you overcome this difficult
time - with courage.
The day before, the president decreed national mourning in the
country and in diplomatic and consular missions to pay tribute
to the nationalist Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos;
which will be valid from 00:00 on December 22, 2025.
This mourning will last 24 hours, during which the national flag
will fly at half-mast and all shows and public demonstrations,
will be suspended, though there will be no break from work.
The Minister of State and head of the President's Military House,
General Francisco Pereira Furtado, coordinator of the special
commission for funeral honours formed at the direction of
the president, said in a special appearance that a state
funeral will be held on Monday morning.
His mortal remains will be in the
Alto de las Cruces cemetery,
in Luanda.
___________________________________
Angola expressed solidarity
with Venezuela & Palestine
December 19th, 1:09pm
(Prensa Latina)
The Angolan League of Friendship, Solidarity and Peace
(Laasp) today hosted a solidarity act with Venezuela
and Palestine, faced with attacks - in which both
peoples are victims.
On the occasion of the 200 years of the Chuquisaca Decree,
signed by the Venezuelan hero Simón Bolívar, members of
the Angolan Committee of Solidarity with Bolivarian
Venezuela (Casoveb) and the Angolan Committee
of Solidarity with the People of Palestine
(Caspp), planted a tree for peace.
At the event, the ambassador of the South American nation in
Angola, Belén Orsini, said that even though it is an action
that seems small..... it contains deep meanings,
particularly in times of aggression by the
United States and Israel, and the
need to care for nature.
More than ever it symbolizes our call for peace for all peoples,
not only for Venezuela and Palestine, “but for all those who
suffer the attacks of imperialism, of the culture of death
that is contrary to this culture of life that we defend”,
he noted.
He commented that the Chuquisaca Decree, prepared by the
Liberator of America, reveals the general's great vision of
the future, that two centuries ago expressed the need
to reforest all the river basins of what was then
Gran Colombia .........with one million trees.
The idea is currently much more urgent, he added, and highlighted
that the participants' desire is for the tree to become a symbol
and grow with strong roots, robust trunk and many leaves
to protect that message of unity between peoples.
The ambassadors of Palestine, Jubrael George Bishara Shomali,
of Cuba, Oscar León, and of Venezuela, together with the
president of Laasp, Elisa Salvador, and the deputy
administrator of the municipality of Ingombotas,
Cláudio Revelas, was in charge of planting
the tree in the Laasp garden.
The occasion was propitious to condemn the actions of the United
States with its military siege and economic pressures against the
Bolivarian Republic, as well as the economic blockade against
Cuba, an unfair policy that has lasted more than six decades,
stressed the vice president of Laasp, Fernando Mota.
He also conveyed a message of solidarity from the Angolans with the
people of Palestine, who deserve to live in peace in the land of their
ancestors, finally free and with the world's recognition of that State.
On the day, those present, dedicated farewell words to the
Palestinian representative, who concludes his mission
after four years.
Shomali, for his part, profusely thanked the Angolan people for their
expressions of affection and commitment to the Palestinian cause,
not only from the people, but also ---- from the support of the
Government and institutions.
_______________________________
Mali expressed full solidarity with
the Government and people
of Venezuela
December 19th, 9:55am
(Prensa Latina)
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
of the Republic of Mali, Abdoulaye Diop, today expressed
his country's full solidarity with the Government and
people of Venezuela in the face of aggression
from the United States.
This emerged from a dialogue held with his Venezuelan
counterpart, Yván Gil, who on his Telegram account
described the 'phone conversation as constructive.
During the talk Diop reaffirmed “his rejection
of all forms of external interference”.
Gil pointed out that during the dialogue they addressed the
political and social situation in both countries, as well as
the common challenges they face in the current
regional and international context.
Likewise -- they talked about the situation of the Confederation
of Sahel States and its evolution «highlighting the importance
of dialogue, cooperation and respect for the sovereignty of
States», he expressed.
Last August, Caracas and Bamako signed a memorandum of
understanding that strengthened the 18 existing bilateral
agreements, promoted economic development, and the
social and strategic ties between the two nations,
and consolidated South-South cooperation.
Then, President Nicolás Maduro and Diop agreed to hold the 2026
Joint Commission in the African country, which will allow for a
strengthening binational cooperation, with new agreements.
The visit of the Malian Foreign Minister to the Bolivarian
Republic reflected the historical ties between Mali and
Venezuela, promoted by the leader of the Bolivarian
Revolution, Hugo Chávez.
He also responded to the policies implemented by the Maduro
Government to diversify international alliances, in a context
of rejection of the coercive measures and financial
persecutions promoted by the West ---- against
his country.
_________________________________________________
Progress continues in Ethiopia-
Somalia bilateral relations
December 19th, 8:51am
(Prensa Latina)
The Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, received the
President of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, today,
who makes a working visit ....to strengthen their
bilateral relations.
Ahmed, on his social network account X, showed the images
of Mohamoud's welcome at Bole International Airport and
revealed... that they continued the talks of the last year
with the aim of consolidating progress in cooperation.
“Our exchange focused on driving shared priorities and
reaffirmed our mutual commitment to deeper
partnership, regional stability and
development” ---- the account
words stressed.
On the occasion, both leaders reaffirmed their mutual
commitment to deeper partnership, regional stability
and development.
On the other hand, Ahmed and Mohamoud met last January
after signing the Ankara Declaration that ended tensions
between both countries.
The meeting was the second face to face between both leaders
since their engagement in the meeting negotiated by the
Turkish president ------- Recep Tayyip Erdogan, held in
December 2024 that ended in the announcement
of the Ankara Declaration.
Mediated by Erdogan, the parties involved reached a peace agreement
after addressing tensions caused by the signing of a memorandum
of understanding by Ethiopia.. with the semi-autonomous region
of Somaliland, on December 1st, in 2024.
The latter grants Addis Ababa 20 kilometres of access
to the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea, for a period
of 50 years.
In exchange, it must formally recognize Somaliland, which
proclaimed its independence from Somalia in 1991,
without the United Nations recognizing that
region as a national state...... to date.
As a result of that meeting last January, both leaders agreed
to restore and improve their diplomatic relations.... through
flat diplomatic representation in their respective capitals.
They highlighted at that time, the need for their diplomatic
missions in multilateral and regional forums to cooperate
closely ....on issues of mutual interest.
_________________________________________________
Lavrov arrived in Cairo ------- for the
Russia-Africa ministerial meeting
by Yuri Kogalov (Cairo)
December 18th, 7:53pm
(Rossiyskaya Gazeta)
To share
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has arrived in Cairo
on a working visit. In the Egyptian capital - the Russian
Foreign Minister will participate in the ministerial
conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership
Forum, which will take place on
December 19-20.
This will be the first time such an event has been held on
the African continent. Until now, all conferences and
summits have been held in Russia.
The participants of the Cairo meeting are expected to
synchronize their positions on the most pressing
issues on the international and Russian-
African agendas.
According to Maria Zakharova, the official representative of
the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the focus will be on
the full implementation of the 2023-2026 Action Plan of
the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum, which was
approved at the St. Petersburg summit.
This plan, covers various areas of Russian-African cooperation.
The ministers will discuss the progress made in implementing
this plan.
"Special attention will be paid ------- to developing relations in the trade,
economic, and investment spheres, as well as discussing promising
areas for further cooperation," the diplomat said. According to
Zakharova, the ministerial meeting in Egypt is "a major event
in Russian-African relations this year and a crucial stage in
preparing for the third Russia-Africa summit, scheduled
for 2026."
"The Forum's work is important ---- for promoting the entire range of
Russian-African ties, and it organically complements and enriches
Russia's relations with African countries, which are developing
dynamically and on a bilateral basis," Lavrov said in an article
for the African media - written in time for the Cairo meeting.
According to him, Africa is experiencing a kind of second awakening,
and Russia is happy about this. "If in the middle of the last century
the culmination was de-colonization, now Africans are fighting for
the sovereignty of all aspects of their lives. We fully support this
struggle," the minister's article states.
"Russian diplomacy ----- will contribute to the formation of the African
continent as an influential centre of a multipolar world. We consider
it an inalienable right of Africans to independently determine the
ways and models of their development, to choose international
partners," Lavrov stressed.
The Russian Foreign Minister has repeatedly noted that Russia's
cooperation with its African partners is "strategic in nature."
"This - is one of our key foreign policy priorities," the minister said.
It is not for nothing that the Foreign Minister has visited 20
countries of the Black continent over the past four years
(this is more than a third of their total number).
"The African continent is already and will continue to grow as one
of the pillars of the emerging multipolar world order and it will
play an increasingly important role --- in global politics,
the economy and finance," Lavrov said recently.
Russia aims to expand trade and economic cooperation with Africa
in areas such as peaceful nuclear energy, space, pharmaceuticals,
the digitalization of public and municipal administration, and the
banking sector. Work is being carried out with both individual
countries and regional organizations.
Compared to 2019, trade with Africa increased by more than one
and a half times, exceeding the \$27 billion mark last year.
"This ---- is far from the limit," Lavrov said.
It is expected that the discussions held in Cairo, will result in
new initiatives aimed at unlocking potential in various fields.
________________________________________
Myanmar and Algeria
reaffirm bilateral
cooperation
December 18th, 10:56am
(Prensa Latina)
Myanmar and Algeria agreed today to give greater projection
to their diplomatic relations by promoting cooperation in
trade, economy and tourism, during an official meeting
between the authorities from both countries.
The understanding was ratified during the credential presentation
ceremony of the Algerian ambassador, Azeddine Bechka, before
the interim president of Myanmar and the head of the State
Security and Peace Commission, Min Aung Hlaing.
In the dialogue, both parties agreed to promote a lasting bilateral
relationship based on friendship and mutual respect, as well as
to expand economic and commercial exchanges of
shared benefit.
Likewise, political progress in Myanmar and preparations for the
holding of free and fair multiparty general elections in the
Asian country were addressed.
The event was also attended by the Secretary General of the
Commission, Ye Win Oo, the Minister of Foreign Affairs,
Than Swe, and Director General of the Protocol
Department, Than Htwe.
_______________________________
SADC will send mediation group
to ''stabilize'' Madagascar
December 18th, 10:55am
(Prensa Latina)
The Southern African Development Community
authorized the sending of a mediation panel
to support the restoration of constitutional
order & political stability in Madagascar.
The decision, announced today, was adopted during a virtual
Extraordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government
of the regional bloc, held virtually the day before.
The mechanism, which includes a Panel of Elders and
a Mediation Reference Group, will be deployed
before March 2026.
Former Malawi President, Joyce Banda - will lead the initiative,
which will have technical support from the SADC Secretariat.
The group will have the mission of facilitating internal efforts
to restore ''democratic governance'' and peace in the
island country.
At the meeting, regional leaders received a report from Malawian
President Arthur Peter Mutharika, in charge of the Policy,
Defense and Security Body .......about a technical
evaluation mission carried out last October.
The summit welcomed the restoration of calm in Madagascar and
took note of the national consultation process launched by the
transitional government on 10 December.
In a statement in this regard, the summit urged the transitional
government, led by Colonel Michael Randrianirina, to initiate
an inclusive national dialogue led by the Malagasy
themselves. This process --- must lay the
foundations for holding elections and
facilitate the peaceful return of
political exiles.
The Panel of Elders was also tasked - with coordinating with
the SADC special envoy, the former Mozambican president
Joaquim Chissano, to gather background information
on previous interventions and pending issues, in
particular ----- constitutional reforms and
electoral processes.
Madagascar is due to submit a report on the preparation of the
dialogue and a draft National Roadmap by February 28, 2026,
with subsequent updates in May, August and November of
the same year.
In organizational matters ---- after the appointment of the South
African president, Cyril Ramaphosa, as President of the SADC,
the summit appointed the Zambian president, Hakainde
Hichilema, as theIncoming Interim President of the
regional organization.
The summit also led the SADC Secretariat to coordinate with
the African Union and international partners to mobilize
financial, technical and logistical resources ---- to
support reforms in Madagascar.
_________________________________
They invite Emirati
businessmen to
invest in Angola
December 18th, 7:33am
(Prensa Latina)
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Angola, Téte António, today
invited businessmen from the United Arab Emirates to invest
in their country, during his speech at the Africa-UAE
Economic Forum, held in Dubai.
The chancellor took advantage of the space to present the economic
potential of the African nation and highlighted that internally they
are working on structural reforms aimed at diversifying the
economy, improving the business environment and
promoting private investment, both national
and foreign.
He presented agriculture, energy, mineral resources, manufacturing,
logistics, transportation, tourism and infrastructure as strategic
sectors for the country; with special emphasis on the Lobito
Corridor, a railway line that connects the port of Lobito
with the interior and markets of the Democratic
Republic of the Congo, and Zambia.
António assured that investors in Angola will arrive in a place ------- with
political and macroeconomic stability, legal security, and mechanisms
that will facilitate the processes for a mutually advantageous alliance.
Under the motto “Investing in Africa and Dubai”, policy makers,
businessmen and financial institutions met in the UAE to
strengthen ties of economic cooperation.
The event --- is promoted by the Forum of Operators for Emergency
Economic Guarantees in Africa (Fogeca), a pan-African exchange
platform --- with influence and action --- dedicated to promoting
economic development and regional integration in Africa.
_____________________________________________
Revenue from tourist accommodation in
South Africa increased in October
December 17th, 12:22pm
(Prensa Latina)
Revenue from the tourist accommodation sector in South
Africa grew significantly in October 2025, driven by
hotels and other accommodation modalities,
according to the most recent report
from Statistics South Africa
(Stats SA).
According to the report, in nominal terms, the total turnover of
the sector registered an increase of 12.8 percent in October
2025 compared to the same month of the previous year.
The increase in accommodation income was 15.2 percent
year-on-year, result of a 10.3 percent increase in nights
spent and a 4.5 percent growth in average income
per night sold.
The analysis by type of establishment indicates that hotels were
the main driver of progress, with a growth of 15.3 percent that
contributed 8.7 percentage points to the general increase.
Stats SA added that the category called “other” accommodations
showed an even more dynamic performance, with an increase
of 17.2 percent and a contribution of 6.4 percentage points
to the annual result.
In the quarterly period, accommodation income grew 10.5 percent
in the three months closed in October 2025 compared to the
same period in 2024.
Both hotels and the modalities grouped in “others” registered
increases of 11.0 percent, with contributions of 6.1 and 4.2
percentage points, respectively, to accumulated growth.
The seasonally adjusted series showed a monthly recovery in
October, with an increase of 7.2 percent compared to
September 2025, after a drop of 6.1 percent
in the previous month.
Analysts estimate that this behaviour shows the volatility of
demand in the short term and the influence of seasonal
calendar factors on occupancy and the average rate.
______________________________________________
Income from the food sector
grows in South Africa
December 17th, 11:57am
(Prensa Latina)
The food and beverage sector in South Africa recorded an
8.4 percent year-on-year increase in real revenue in
October 2025, powered by restaurants and other
similar services, national statistical agency
Stats SA said today.
Official figures, calculated at constant 2019 prices, indicate
that the industry as a whole increased its revenue by
8.4 percent compared to October 2024.
Among the subsectors, restaurants and cafes stood out with
an increase of 10.1 percent, which contributed 4.7
percentage points to the global increase.
In the three-month period ended in October, accumulated
revenue increased 7.1 percent compared to the same
period in 2024.
In the text, the statistical entity added that takeaway
establishments and fast food chains registered a
growth of 10.0 percent, contributing 3.9
percentage points to the national total,
while restaurants and cafes, added
6.8 percent, with a contribution of
3.2 percentage points to the
quarterly result.
Seasonally adjusted indicators showed a positive variation
of 2.4 percent in October compared to September 2025,
after a monthly drop of 1.7 percent in September and
a rebound of 5.7 percent in August.
This behavior reflects monthly oscillations associated with
seasonal factors and the evolution of domestic demand.
Local analysts attribute part of the boost to the diversification
of supply and the adaptation of operators to changes in
consumer habits, with special emphasis on the fast
food segment and complementary services
included in the “other” category.
For their part, representatives of business associations and
economic authorities valued the results.. as a sign of
recovery and greater resilience of the sector after
periods of contraction, although --- they warned
about the importance of maintaining support
measures to consolidate employment -- and
guarantee affordable prices for consumers.
________________________________________________
Cargo transportation and passenger
travel increases in South Africa
December 17th, 11:09am
(Prensa Latina)
Freight transport in South Africa registered an increase
in the volume handled and a marked increase in
income in October 2025, according to data
revealed by the national statistical
entity, Stats SA.
The report indicates that the cargo moved grew 2.2 percent
in October 2025 compared to the same month of the
previous year, while the income associated with
this movement increased 5.7 percent in the
same period, reflecting an improvement
in the profitability of the sector.
In the quarterly analysis, maintains Stats SA, revenue from
freight transportation showed an advance of 4.1 percent
in the three months ended October 2025 compared to
the equivalent quarter of 2024.
Among the items that contributed the most to this growth, are
primary products from mining and quarries, with an increase
of 7.0 percent that contributed 2.4 percentage points to the
total; primary agricultural and forestry products, which
grew 21.0 percent and added 1.6 points; and the
parcel segment, with an increase of 31.9
percent and a contribution of
0.8 percentage points.
However, it is added in the report, when adjusting for seasonality,
the volume transported in the quarter ended in October showed
a contraction of 1.6 percent compared to the previous quarter.
This drop was mainly explained by the reduction in road transport,
which fell 2.4 percent and subtracted 2.1 percentage points from
the total, while rail transport registered a rebound of 3.7 percent
and contributed 0.5 percentage points, which suggests a
dynamic of ''modal substitution'' in ''certain corridors''.
In the area of people transportation, the number of trips increased
4.2 percent in October 2025 compared to October 2024, and
income from this concept rose 15.7 percent in the same
period, indicating a recovery in demand and an
improvement in the sector's turnover.
However, according to Stats SA, when considering the seasonally
adjusted series for the quarter ending in October, passenger
travel decreased 0.8% compared to the previous quarter.
The drop was concentrated in road trips, which fell 3.4 percent and
subtracted 2.5 percentage points, while rail travel increased 6.4
percent and added 1.7% to the ''general behaviour''.
_________________________________________________
Ethiopia and AU evaluated
cooperation ahead of
COP32 in 2027
December 17th, 9:47am
(Prensa Latina)
The Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, spoke today, with
the president of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali
Youssouf, on strengthening bilateral cooperation in
preparation for COP32.
Addis Ababa was officially announced as the venue for the 32nd
United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP32) during the
closing plenary session of COP30 recently held in Belém,
Brazil. The summit is scheduled to take place in
November 2027.
Ahmed highlighted during the meeting the importance of
close collaboration to ensure that the conference is a
success --- that reflects African priorities.
On his account on the social network X, he expressed his
satisfaction with the commitment of the AU, under the
leadership of Youssouf ----- to act as a key partner to
support Ethiopia's efforts for a “truly African COP”.
Task forces from both sides described the discussions as part
of Ethiopia's broader initiative to position the continent at the
forefront of global climate action and advance solutions led
by Africa in international negotiations on the issue.
______________________________________________________
Ethiopia and India open a new chapter
with strategic partnership
December 17th, 9:18am
(Prensa Latina)
The Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, stated today that
increasing ties at a strategic level with India marks an
important milestone and opens a new chapter of
cooperation and shared progress.
Ahmed, on his X social network account, thanked his Indian
counterpart, Narendra Modi --- for his first official visit to
Addis Ababa and his continued efforts to strengthen
bilateral relations.
Modi, for his part, on the same digital platform, wrote that his stay
gave new impetus to the ties between both nations with the
elevation of ties to a strategic partnership. “My gratitude
to the Government and people of Ethiopia. I also thank
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali for accompanying me
to the airport when I left Ethiopia”, the
publication concluded.
This morning, the Indian head of government participated in a joint
session of the local Parliament in which he reaffirmed historical
ties between both countries and committed to deepening
their strategic partnership in multiple sectors.
He described Addis Ababa as a nation that combines “ancient
wisdom and modern ambition”, emphasizing its central role
in African diplomacy.
“Thousands of Indian teachers came to Ethiopia, Ethiopian students
also traveled to India in search of knowledge and friendship”, he
said, noting the contributions of merchants, soldiers and
educators of that South Asian nation, in building
local, modern foundations.
Regarding economic and development cooperation, Modi cited
Indian investments of more than five billion dollars in sectors
such as textiles, manufacturing, agriculture and health,
creating over 75,000 jobs.
He noted - that the strategic partnership will be focused
on technology, innovation, mining, clean energy, food
security, health security and capacity building.
He highlighted India's digital infrastructure, enabling the efficient
delivery of welfare benefits and financial services, and pledged
to support the Digital Ethiopia 2025 strategy, including the
development of a data centre in the Ministry of
Foreign Affairs.
In defense and security, Modi reaffirmed commitments under the
Defense Cooperation Agreement signed earlier this year, which
covers collaboration in cybersecurity, industry, joint research
and capacity building.
Before concluding, he underlined the shared vision for
the Global South --- equity and inclusive development.
“The future is calling, and India and Ethiopia are ready to respond.
We will walk together, as equals. We will build together, as
partners. And we will be successful together as friends”,
he promised.
__________________________________________________
Civil society warns about
reinforcement of rebels
in eastern DRC
December 16th, 12:43pm
(Prensa Latina)
Civil society in Lubero, North Kivu province in the Democratic
Republic of the Congo (DRC), warned today about the
reinforcement of personnel and ammunition of the
Congo River Alliance-March 23 Movement
(AFC/M23) in that territory.
The rebels announced this Tuesday the unilateral withdrawal of
their troops from Uvira city, in the province of South Kivu,
which had been under their control since December 10.
The measure, carried out at the request of the United States,
guarantor of the Peace Agreement between the DRC and
Rwanda, was presented as a gesture to support the
Doha peace process, Qatar; but the insurgents
appear to be strengthening their presence
in other areas.
Movements have been reported in the territory of Lubero since
the weekend, especially in the Kipese, Munyakondomi,
Masereka and Lubero-Sur axes, Radio Okapi reports.
The day before, vehicles with support troops were sighted crossing
the city of Kirumba heading north, towards the territory of Lubero,
and according to several observers this could indicate an
advance --- towards Lubero-centre, the capital of the
territory, and towards Lubero-South, as well as
in the direction of Butembo and Beni.
Also, in the neighbouring territory of Walikale, the presence
of AFC/M23 reinforcements was reported since last week
in Mpety, in the Banakindi area of the Kisimba group,
which could have as its objective, an offensive
against the city of Pinga.... which has been
the target of attacks for several months.
_______________________________________
Colombia seeks to strengthen ties
with the African financial sector
December 16th, 12:41pm
(Prensa Latina)
The official visit to Africa of the vice president of Colombia,
Francia Márquez, allowed dialogues to be established with
the financial sector of that continent, as highlighted here
today by a statement from the Vice Presidency.
During the fourth trip of the New Granada Government to
that region, the official met with directors of the African
Development Bank and the Development Bank of the
Economic Community of West African States, in
Togo; Fidelity Bank, in Ghana and the Central
Bank of West African States, in Senegal,
the note noted.
In these meetings, the source noted, Márquez was accompanied by
members of the delegation - such as the Vice Minister of Bilateral
Relations, Mauricio Jaramillo; the Vice Minister of Foreign Trade
- Tito Yepes; the Vice Minister of Culture, Saia Vergara and the
Chargé d'Affaires of the Colombian Embassy in Ghana,
Kellys Moreno.
Businesswomen and entrepreneurs from the South American
country also attended, who had the opportunity to learn
first-hand --- about the interest of African banks
in exploring, opening new portfolios and
establishing channels of financial
and technical cooperation, the
communication said.
“For Colombia --- strengthening the economic link with Africa
is a strategic priority, with emphasis on diversifying trading
partners and building South–South” alliances, the vice
president expressed, regarding her trip.
She insisted on the need for air routes that connect Latin
America with Africa, and for ports ---- to streamline and
mobilize the economy between the two continents.
“Our countries, without the financial support of development
banks, will hardly be able to achieve the infrastructure
required to facilitate mobility and trade relations.
We know - that we are developing countries,
that we have high external debts --- with
aggressive interest -- and it is a great
challenge, to advance in prioritizing
social investment & development”,
she stressed.
___________________________________
Ethiopia and India explore avenues for
cooperation and sign key agreements
December 16th, 12:38pm
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and his Indian counterpart
Narendra Modi, held a bilateral session today, in which they
explored avenues for cooperation and signed several
key agreements.
Ahmed, on his social network account X, described the meeting
with Modi and his delegation as productive, while revealing
--- that the dialogue reflects the growing alliance and
shared priorities between both countries.
Both leaders presided over the exchange of key agreements,
these include - the Agreement on Mutual Administrative
Assistance in Customs Matters, and the Memorandum
of Understanding ......on the Establishment of a Data
Centre in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia.
Likewise, the Memorandum of Understanding on United Nations'
Peacekeeping Cooperation. According to the African head
of government, this agreement --- reinforces their joint
commitment to international peace and security.
Finally, he acknowledged that India is a long-standing partner
of Ethiopia, and this day's meetings underscore the shared
will to expand collaboration across multiple sectors, for
the mutual benefit of both nations.
Modi arrived this Tuesday to make his first official visit to the
African nation, as part of a tour that began in Jordan, and
will end in Oman with the aim of improving partnerships
in Africa and the Middle East.
_____________________________________________
They urge South Africa
to deepen national
reconciliation
December 16th, 11:29am
(Prensa Latina)
The president of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, today urged
his compatriots to reaffirm their commitment to national
unity, warning that poverty and violence undermine
social cohesion.
During the central event for Reconciliation Day at the Ncome
Museum in KwaZulu-Natal, the president stressed how the
country's democratic foundations were built, opting for
healing, over revenge.
«We return to Ncome not to reopen wounds, but - to reaffirm our
promise that South Africa will never again be divided by hatred
or exclusion», Ramaphosa declared before the authorities and
communities gathered at the historic site, scene of the battle
of 1838 ---- in a ceremony that took place under the motto
«Reaffirming Reconciliation for Future Generations».
On the occasion, the President recalled that, despite centuries
of oppression and traumatic events such as the Sharpeville
and Boipatong massacres, the nation chose the path of
reconciliation. In this regard --- he cited Nelson
Mandela --- emphasizing the need to live
respecting the freedom of others.
Ramaphosa warned, however, that this process remains
unfinished. «As long as the majority of the black
population lives in poverty, and inequality
persists, there will be -------- no
true reconciliation».
At that point, he pointed out that inclusive economic growth,
job creation and the fight against corruption, are the
fundamental pillars for national unity.
Likewise, Ramaphosa strongly condemned gender violence,
making a direct call to men: «True men do not abuse
women and children; they protect them». He urged
to channel the «warrior spirit» towards the
defense of the most vulnerable.
In a message, the president also warned about false
narratives - that try to portray South Africa as an
irremediably divided society.
On that topic, he denied these versions, citing examples
of coexistence: children of all races studying together,
young people sharing languages and traditions, and
successful land restitution processes.
«There are those - who ignore the daily displays of social
cohesion. They do not show young Afrikaners dancing
Amapiano or speaking IsiZulu fluently. The objective
------ is to sow fear», he stated.
The South African president concluded --- by calling to use
the current festive season to heal family and community
relationships, remembering that «healthy families are
the foundation of a healthy nation».
______________________________________________
Elephants, giraffes and other large
animals thrive where there is salt
December 16th, 11:07am
(Prensa Latina)
A map of sodium in Africa shows that where it is most available
is where large animals thrive, such as giraffes, rhinos or
elephants - as they need this natural element for
their metabolism and cellular physiology.
In nature, sodium is scarce, it barely represents 3% of the
Earth's crust - and the vast majority is not bioassimilable.
As it is almost absent in plants, herbivores and other
animals -- would die without the hint of this element.
“West Africa and parts of the planet, have high productivity,
meaning there is abundant forage available for herbivores”,
details Andrew Abraham... researcher at the Municipal
University of New York -- and first author of this salt
map, published in Nature Ecology and Evolution.
“However, there has long been a mystery as to why there
are no more mega-herbivores in these areas”, he adds.
Indeed, unlike what happens in the southern fringe of the Sahel,
in the savannahs of the east and south of the continent, with
a high density of large herbivores, despite having less plant
availability, there are other areas of sub-Saharan Africa
---- where there are no elephants, giraffes, or rhinos.
About thirty scientists, led by Abraham, have found meaning in it;
they created a map - with a resolution of about 10 kilometres by
10 kilometres, with sodium concentration data in the leaves of
dozens of plant species present in each grid.
To do this, they took 4,258 samples in 268 locations and with
the support of machine learning they scaled their results to
the entire subcontinent.
Then, they overlapped this map of African salt with a better-
known one, that of the distribution of herbivorous mammal
species weighing more than two kilograms.
To connect both maps, they analyzed the amount of sodium
present in 1,356 stool samples from specimens of 28
different species, and they realized that the areas
where plants with a higher concentration of
sodium dominate ......are where there is a
greater abundance of large herbivores.
“Based on our research, we believe that salt, probably in
conjunction with other factors such as overhunting
and soil infertility, play an important role in
population limitation”, says the expert.
In 2023, Abraham and his colleagues published work showing
how, the larger the animals, the greater the number of
behaviours searching for alternative sources of
sodium, like bathing in salt marshes, or
sucking on rocks rich in salts.
_________________________________
South Africa commemorates
Reconciliation Day
at historic site
December 16th, 4:34am
(Prensa Latina)
The president of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, today leads
the central event for Reconciliation Day, which this year
will be held at the Ncome Museum, in the eastern
province of KwaZulu-Natal.
According to a presidential statement to this effect, under
the motto «Reaffirming Reconciliation for Future
Generations» the ceremony seeks to deepen
the commitment to unity, healing and
national construction, the
Department reported.
According to the text, in his speech - Ramaphosa will highlight
the importance of transforming spaces that once represented
conflict into platforms for honest dialogue, justice and a
shared national identity.
That place, according to the Ministry of Sports, Arts and Culture,
was the scene of the Battle of the Río de la Sangre (Ncome) in
1838, and the commemoration carries symbolism.
The confrontation, which occurred 187 years ago between
native Zulu forces and voortrekkers (settlers of Dutch
origin), generated conflicting narratives in the
country for more than a century.
Since 1995 -- the democratic government redefined
the date as a day of unity and collective reflection.
The celebration of this historical heritage constitutes,
according to the authorities, an invitation to confront
the nation's complex past, marked by colonialism
and racial division, while moving towards... an
inclusive future.
Representatives of communities, traditional leaders, veterans
of the fight against the apartheid regime and members of the
diplomatic corps... are expected to attend.
Reconciliation Day, a national holiday, also marks the
anniversary of the founding of the armed wing of the
African National Congress, Umkhonto we Sizwe, in
1961, and, simultaneously, it seeks to heal the
wounds of previous historical conflicts.
According to national political analysts, the event is part
of the government's efforts - to use historical heritage
as a catalyst for social cohesion & intercommunity
dialogue, strengthening the foundations of the
so-called rainbow nation.
__________________________
They highlight positive signs in
the South African economy
December 15th, 12:26pm
(Prensa Latina)
South Africa's economy shows preliminary signs of recovery,
supported by an improvement in its credit rating for the first
time in two decades and its GDP growth, the Presidency
noted, today.
In an assessment of the year's progress, presidential
spokesperson Vincent Magwenya highlighted that
the actions to unlock economic growth, grouped
in the so-called «Operation Vulindlela», begins
to give tangible results.
He recalled The Standard & Poor's agency raised the rating
of long-term external debt to ‘BB’ and internal debt to ‘BB+’.
«The first green shoots for an economic recovery are visible»,
Magwenya said --- alluding to the stabilization of the rand,
which has strengthened below 17 units per US dollar.
Likewise, he added, the economy grew
0.5% in the third quarter of 2025.
Also, he continued, unemployment showed a moderate
improvement, reducing by 1.3 percentage points to
the still very high 31.9 percent.
In this regard, the construction sector generated 130,000
of the 248,000 new jobs created in that period.
The spokesperson also cited as a positive element the fact
that the International Monetary Fund revised upward the
growth forecasts for the country to 1.3 percent in 2025.
In a press conference, Magwenya linked these advances to
the Medium Term Development Plan (2024-2029) of the
Government of National Unity, which prioritizes
inclusive growth, the reduction of poverty....
and the construction of an effective State.
Energy stability ....was pointed out by the official as
a fundamental pillar of this incipient positive trend.
In fiscal matters, he recalled, the South African Revenue
Service exceeded collection estimates by 18 billion
rands (almost one billion US dollars).
Tourism also presents an upward trajectory, with a year-on-
year increase of 18 percent in the arrival of international
visitors, led by citizens of the US, the UK and Germany.
Meanwhile, the youth employment program has placed
200,000 young people in their first work experiences.
The presidential spokesperson acknowledged -- however,
pending challenges, such as the situation in some local
governments, accusations of corruption in the criminal
justice system ....and the high cost of living.
On this last point --- he stated that the executive is
«especially busy» with interventions to mitigate
the volatility of food prices and make public
transportation more affordable.
Magwenya concluded his speech by highlighting -- how, in
the opinion of the Government, the structural measures
applied since 2019 are beginning to bear fruit and that
the current objective is to accelerate this process
so that economic recovery «touches the lives of
all South Africans» ..during the rest of the
development plan period.
___________________________
South Africa ------- will commemorate
Reconciliation Day at historic site
December 15th, 11:49am
(Prensa Latina)
The president of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, will lead
tomorrow the 16th the central event for Reconciliation
Day, this year they will be based at the Ncome
Museum, in the eastern province of
KwaZulu-Natal.
According to a presidential statement to this effect, under the
motto: «Reaffirming Reconciliation for Future Generations»
the ceremony seeks.. to deepen the commitment to unity,
healing & national construction, the Department reportes.
That place, according to the Ministry of Sports, Arts and Culture,
was the scene of the Battle of the Río de la Sangre (Ncome) in
1838, the commemoration carrying symbolism.
The confrontation, which occurred 187 years ago between native
Zulu forces and voortrekkers, generated divisive narratives in
the country... for more than a century.
Since 1995, the democratic government redefined the
date ------- as a day of unity and collective reflection.
According to the text, in his central speech, Ramaphosa will
highlight the importance of transforming spaces that once
represented conflict into platforms for honest dialogue,
justice and a shared national identity.
The celebration in this historical heritage constitutes,
according to the authorities, an invitation to face the
complex past ----------- while moving towards an
inclusive future.
Representatives of communities, traditional leaders, veterans
of the fight against apartheid and members of the diplomatic
corps are expected to attend.
Reconciliation Day, a national holiday, also marks the
anniversary of the founding of the armed wing of the
African National Congress, Umkhonto we Sizwe, in
1961, and - simultaneously - it seeks to heal the
wounds of previous historical conflicts.
According to national political analysts, the event is part of the
government's efforts to use historical heritage as a catalyst
for social cohesion and intercommunity dialogue, thereby
strengthening the foundations of the so-called
rainbow nation.
_______________________________________________
Cubans residing in Angola condemn
theft --- of a Venezuelan oil tanker
December 15th, 5:46am
(Prensa Latina)
The Association of the Cuban Community Resident in Angola
(Accra) today expressed its strong repudiation of the “act
of piracy and maritime terrorism” against a Venezuelan
oil tanker, perpetrated by US forces on December 10.
Through a statement, they indicated that this assault in
international waters of the Caribbean Sea.... near the
coast of Venezuela, constitutes a flagrant violation
of international law, including the United Nations
Convention on the Law of the Sea and the
Convention.... for the Suppression of
Unlawful Acts against the Safety
of Maritime Navigation.
“Such actions not only threaten the sovereignty of Venezuela
and Cuba -- but also undermine the principles of peace and
cooperation that should govern international relations”,
the document stressed.
Accra also urged the international community, academic
institutions and multilateral organizations to speak out
against these illegal practices, and to defend respect
for sovereignty, peace and cooperation
between nations.
The theft, on December 10, of an oil tanker off the Venezuelan
coast, in a military operation that was publicly confirmed by
the US president ---- has generated rejection from the
international community.
The Group of Friends in Defense of the UN Charter described the
event --- as a new unilateral act of coercion against Venezuela
and warned that the action “constitutes a serious violation
of international law, including property rights”.
The condemnation also came from the Bolivarian Alliance for the
Peoples of Our America - People's Trade Treaty, that declared
the robbery of the ship with one million 900 thousand barrels
of oil as ------ “a direct attack against the sovereignty of the
Bolivarian Republic”.
The presidents of Russia, Vladimir Putin, and of the Islamic
Republic of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian, also expressed their
solidarity in the face of the aggression, through a call to
their Venezuelan counterpart, Nicolás Maduro, during
which they reaffirmed the strategic alliances woven
in recent years.
__________________________________________________
MPLA will ''bet on'' young leadership
in the upcoming elections
December 13th, 3:25pm
(Prensa Latina)
The president of the Popular Movement for the Liberation
of Angola (MPLA) party, Joao Lourenco, hinted today
that the political party will bet on young leadership
in the next general elections, scheduled for 2027.
In a political event that brought together thousands of
militants and sympathizers in the municipality of
Kilamba in Luanda, to commemorate the 69th
anniversary of the founding of the party
(December 10, 1956) --- the current
Angolan president meant, that
the person who takes over
must not be more tired
......than him.
He guaranteed that the formal selection process of the MPLA
candidate for the Presidency of the Republic has not yet
begun, and he assured that at the appropriate time, it
will be announced publicly along with the rules for
the presentation of candidatures.
He stressed that everything will be done, according to what the
Constitution provides, and that he will be the Party's candidate
and not his own or any other figure in particular --- affirming
- that the decision will be adopted by the statutory bodies,
the Political Bureau, the Central Committee & Congress.
The goal, he added, is to select a person who represents both
the MPLA and the nation well, and he expressed his desire,
that his successor serve the country better than he has.
“If that happens, I will feel proud”, he noted.
Lourenco dismissed those who assert that the
political formation is not democratic and he
maintained that real democracy exists
within the organization.
When referring to those within the party who express
their desire to lead, he said - that it is not about the
presentation of candidacies but - about “noise,
confusion and distraction” to “hinder the
Party ----- on the important issues, on
which we must focus”.
In his words, the Angolan president reaffirmed that
elections, held within constitutional deadlines,
constitute a normal exercise of democracy
and should not be considered a factor
of disunity.
He appreciated that political competition must be
developed, in a peaceful and civilized manner,
respecting democratic norms and called for
partisan or other disagreements, not to
divide the Angolan people --- as the
present and the future demand
cohesion, political maturity
and a sense of collective
responsibility.
He considered peace.. the most valuable asset in the
country and praised the attention given to national
reconciliation, through various initiatives ----- that
contribute to strengthening citizen coexistence.
He highlighted that the MPLA has repeatedly earned
the trust of voters with its actions to address the
needs of the population, and emphasized that
the people recognize - that the party truly
serves the people's interests.
___________________________________
They sign an agreement for a
liquefied gas terminal in a
South African port
December 13th, 12:04pm
(Prensa Latina)
The companies Transnet Nacional Portuaria and WASAA CEF
Soc Ltd signed a contract to build and operate a liquefied
petroleum gas (LPG) terminal in the Port of Durban,
South Africa.
The agreement involves an approximate
investment of 75 million US dollars.
The terminal contemplated in the agreement, lasting 25 years,
will have a storage volume of 50 thousand cubic metres,
and is scheduled to come into operation in 2027.
Regarding the understanding, government officials highlighted
that this represents a strategic step within the South African
Just Energy Transition program.
Tshokolo Nchocho, president of the board of directors of TNPA,
highlighted that the agreement is part of the development
mandate of the national port system and reflects the
strategic direction of the entity to modernize
infrastructure, attract investment and
support the country's changing
energy landscape.
«This terminal agreement, represents an alignment with national
priorities, market demand and global energy dynamics. The first
LPG terminal at the Port of Durban is a necessary response to
the direction the world is taking», Nchocho said.
For her part, the CEO of the Transnet Group, Michelle Phillips,
he stressed that the signing occurs at a crucial time for the
implementation of strategies that guarantee the transition
towards cleaner energies and the decarbonization of
key sectors.
The terminal, which will be called LOT 100, will diversify entry
points for LPG imports, currently concentrated in the ports
of Richards Bay, Saldanha Bay and Port Elizabeth.
It is expected to strengthen Durban's role as a major logistics
and energy hub.... for the Southern African Development
Community (SADC) region & as a transshipment point.
For his part, the mayor of eThekwini, Cyril Xaba, highlighted
that the initiative will support the city's Climate Action Plan
-- by reducing carbon emissions - and aligns with municipal
plans to generate new electrical capacity ----- including the
authorization to gain 400 megawatts of renewable energy.
The project is the result of a competitive process under Section
56 of the National Ports Act. The WASAA CEF joint venture,
which combines a black-owned entity led by women
with a state energy institution, was designated
as a preferred bidder.
The terminal will have the capacity to distribute up to 800
cubic metres per hour of heated LPG mixture, to supply
both industrial and residential markets.
____________________________________________
South African minister supervises
bilateral water project in Lesotho
December 13th, 11:17am
(Prensa Latina)
South Africa's Minister of Water and Sanitation, Pemmy
Majodina, starting today, is carrying out an official
supervision visit ------ to Phase II of the Lesotho
Highlands Hydroelectric Project (LHWP), a
strategic work for regional water supply.
During her stay in the neighbouring country, which will
conclude tomorrow --- the minister is accompanied by
the Vice Minister David Mahobo and Vice Minister of
Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Seiso Mohai.
The agenda includes a working meeting with his Lesotho
counterpart in Natural Resources, Mohlomi Moleko.
In accordance with a statement issued for this purpose, the
joint delegation, which also includes representatives of the
Binational Highland Water Commission & the Development
Authority of said area (LHDA), will carry out inspections
at nerve centres of the construction.
These include the Polihali Dam site, the Katse Dam Drain
Tunnel system and the bridge over the Senqu River.
The planned bilateral consultation meetings aim to evaluate
the progress of the works and guarantee the continuity of
this emblematic initiative, considered a pillar of relations
between Pretoria and Maseru.
The LHWP not only strengthens bilateral cooperation, according
to the text, but it drives economic development and prosperity
in both nations through the transfer of water resources and
the generation of hydroelectric power.
Phase II of the water transfer component involves the
construction of a dam approximately 165 metres
high in Polihali --- plus a 38-kilometre gravity
tunnel that will link the Polihali and Katse
reservoirs. Upon completion, this stage
will increase by 490 million cubic
metres the annual volume of
water ....transferred from
Lesotho to S. Africa.
This additional contribution will bring the total transfer
to 1.26 billion cubic metres annually, intended to
strengthen the South African Vaal River
Integrated System (IVRS).
This system, the largest in the country, supplies the
Gauteng economic region and is comprised of 14
dams, the Ministry added.
The Polihali dam will become the fifteenth
infrastructure of this vital complex.
This year the ministers of the four states of the Orange-Senqu
River basin (- South Africa, Lesotho, Namibia and Botswana)
reaffirmed their commitment to protecting that watershed
as a strategic resource --- for regional water security,
climate resilience and sustainable development.
_____________________________________________
South Africa's government -
values decrease in poverty
December 13th, 10:47am
(Prensa Latina)
The South African government today highlighted the poverty
reduction recorded in the Statistics South Africa report,
which places the proportion of people below the
Poverty Reference Line at 37.9% in 2023.
According to an official statement in this regard, the results
can be seen as significant progress in the fight against
poverty and in promoting more inclusive development,
and, he stressed the need to maintain public policies
aimed at social protection, job creation & education.
According to the study by the national statistical entity, the
incidence of poverty - registered a drop of 19.6 percentage
points since 2006, a decline that the Executive attributes
to the impact of targeted interventions and sustained
social programs.
The report, prepared from the Income and Expenditure Survey
(IES) 2022/23, shows that the improvement has been more
pronounced among black African & so-called “coloured”
populations, which includes mestizos), which reflects,
according to local analysts, the effectiveness of
measures aimed at the historically most
vulnerable sectors.
However, the document warns of persistent challenges,
including gender inequalities and the recent increase
in poverty in groups that - until now - had a lower
incidence, like the white and Indian/
Asian sectors.
At the territorial level, the provinces of KwaZulu-Natal,
Eastern Cape, North West and Limpopo, continue to
record the highest poverty rates, and together
they comprised almost six percent of the
people in poverty in 2023.
Southeastern KwaZulu-Natal, in particular, comprised
roughly one in four of the poor people in the country.
In contrast, Western Cape and Gauteng -- maintain the lowest
indices, although Gauteng increased its relative participation
between 2015 and 2023 and now comprises about 20% of
the total poor, it added in the text.
On this subject, the Government insisted that the continuity
and strengthening of public policies ---- will be decisive in
consolidating the downward trend, and called for an
intensifying coordination -- between the State, the
private sector, and civil society, to enable more
access to economic opportunities.
Among the priorities identified ---- are the expansion of social
protection, the promotion of formal employment, investment
in education and training, and specific measures to improve
the economic conditions of women.
Despite that progress.. international experts highlight as a
negative factor that South Africa's Gini coefficient (which
quantifies income inequality in a country) stands at
approximately 0.63 (63 out of 100), one of the
highest figures in the world.
The Gini index is on a scale that goes from zero
(perfect equality) to one (maximum inequality).
______________________________________________
Eritrea's withdrawal... from a
regional entity --------- sets its
sights on the Horn of Africa
December 13th, 3:15am
(Prensa Latina)
The decision of the Government of Eritrea to withdraw from
the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD)
today, sets all eyes on the region that is working to
maintain peace, stability and dialogue.
The alarms went off the day before when the Eritrean Ministry
of Foreign Affairs sent a note verbale to the IGAD Secretariat,
alleging that since 2005 the African entity has failed to meet
the aspirations of the people - and played a detrimental role
by becoming an instrument against the Member States, in
particular, with Eritrea.
These unjustified acts led that nation to suspend its accession in
April 2007, activating it again in June 2023... in the hope that the
Organization would heed its call for reform and rectify
previous records, the text recalled.
“Unfortunately, IGAD has failed and continues to fail to comply
with its legal obligations, thereby undermining its own
relevance and legal mandate”, he added.
The note verbale concluded that IGAD offered no discernible
strategic benefit and did not contribute substantially to
regional stability.
For its part, the African entity responded that it had taken
note of Eritrea's decision and recalled the suspension of
its participation for almost two decades before formally
rejoining after the VX Ordinary Summit of Chiefs, state
and Government, held in June 2023.
“On that occasion, Eritrea was welcomed unanimously
and with satisfaction by all Member States, reflecting
a collective commitment ---- to inclusion, regional
solidarity and renewed cooperation”, the
statement underlined.
However, IGAD regretted that, since then, Asmara did not
participate in meetings, programs or activities convened.
Throughout this period, the Secretariat exercised
patience and goodwill --- while remaining open
and available for constructive intervention,
he said.
The Authority regretted Eritrea's decision taken without
the presentation of tangible proposals or participation
in concrete institutional or political reforms, at the
same time, it reiterated its openness to dialogue
via its established consultative mechanisms.
In this spirit, it stressed, the Secretariat will continue to pay
attention to the Government of Eritrea and encouraged it to
reconsider its position and fully rejoin the Organization in
good faith, in order to promote the shared objectives - of
peace, stability and development throughout the region.
It concluded by reaffirming its commitment to promoting
cooperation, dialogue and collective action for the
benefit of the people of the Horn of Africa.
Media in the region echoed the news and, according to
Ethiopia's The Reporter newspaper, eritrea's decision
to leave the bloc in 2007 included similar complaints.
At that time, the newspaper stated, isaias Afwerki's government
opposed IGAD member states' support for Ethiopia's military
intervention in Somalia --- to fight the extremist group
Al-Shabaab, arguing that the deployment violated
Somali sovereignty and that the African entity
did not defend its rights.
After that withdrawal, the Organization and the United Nations
accused Asmara of supporting armed opposition groups and
Al-Shabaab in Mogadishu.
These accusations resulted in sanctions imposed by the UN in
2009, which affected Eritrea's relations with IGAD members
and the international community at large.
However, the penalties were lifted nine years later, following
political changes in Ethiopia in 2018 and the resumption
of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
On November 15, 2018, then IGAD Executive Secretary Mahboub
Maalim, expressed his gratitude for the decision of the UN
Security Council .....to lift sanctions against the
African nation.
“The historical normalization of relations between Ethiopia
and Eritrea, that put an end to the situation of no war or
peace between the two brother countries, is going to
have a very positive ramification in the region, in
terms of cooperation and also towards peace,
security and stability”, declared Maalim.
______________________________________________
Solidarity with Cuba ---- from the
Zimbabwe Anti-Sanctions Trust
December 13th, 2:15am
(Prensa Latina)
The Zimbabwe Anti-Sanctions Trust (ZAST) expressed support
for Cuba and today urged the world ---- to denounce actions
against International Law and regional stability, and to
confront the act of piracy by the United States
against an oil tanker in the waters of the
Caribbean Sea.
The non-governmental organization ZAST -- expresses its firm
solidarity with the people and Government of Cuba, following
reports from the island's Foreign Ministry about Washington's
military operation on a Venezuelan ship ---- on December 10.
This action -- described as an act of piracy and a violation of
international maritime law, is part of the US' broad strategy
aimed at obstructing Venezuela's sovereign right to trade
in its natural resources and intensifying the economic
pressure imposed on Cuba.
Such measures have deepened the impact of the long-
standing blockade on the national energy system
and the daily lives of Cubans.
As a nation that has suffered the devastating effects of
unilateral coercive measures, Zimbabwe stands in
solidarity with Havana and Caracas, rejecting the
use of economic strangulation, extraterritorial
coercion or military intimidation - as tools in
international relations.
We reiterate – indicates the statement - that the sovereignty
of nations, large or small, must be respected and -- that the
commitment of the Caribbean and Latin America to peace
- expressed in the declaration of the region as a Zone of
Peace, must be defended.
The ZAST calls on - the International Community, multilateral
institutions and progressive movements around the world to
denounce all actions that undermine International Law,
threaten regional stability --- or violate the right of
nations to trade peacefully.
We further reaffirm our commitment to global cooperation
against sanctions that inflict collective suffering & erode
the foundations of legitimate multilateral interaction.
Zimbabwe's friendship with Cuba is historic, principled and
unwavering. At this time of greatest pressure, we stand
in solidarity with its people, in the fight for dignity,
development and sovereignty, the
declaration concludes.
___________________________________
Ethiopia participated in the IV Brics
Sherpas and Subsherpas Meeting
December 13th, 2:13am
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopia participated in the IV Meeting of Sherpas and
Subsherpas of the Brics in Brazil, a balance of
activities in 2025 based on the report on the
transfer ....of the presidency of the South
American nation, was released today.
According to the local Foreign Ministry, the Ethiopian
representation praised Brasilia for its leadership
and the results of the year, which will drive a
collective vision towards an equitable
multilateral system.
Likewise, he highlighted the areas of cooperation
that deserve greater attention and action to
promote the interests of the countries
of the economic group.
The meeting held on December 11 and 12 covered
the six priority areas related to global Southern
cooperation, global health, climate change,
trade, investment and finance, and the
governance of artificial intelligence.
An event on links between the peoples of the Brics
also presented the outstanding activities and
results of the year of participation within
the framework of the Civil Society
and Business Councils.
India assumes the presidency of the
group in 2026, the source recalled.
___________________________________________
UN reiterates ...concern
for civilians in El Fasher
December 12th, 11:23am
(Prensa Latina)
The United Nations (UN) today reiterated its concern for
the people who remain in El Fasher, the capital of the
Sudanese state of North Darfur, and reiterated
the need to allow access to aid teams.
The multilateral organization regretted the violence to which
thousands of civilians are subjected in that city, taken by
paramilitary forces in October.
Our deep concern remains.. for the tens of thousands of people
believed to remain trapped in El Fasher. Our agencies believe
they will soon be able to access the besieged territory. The
essential elements for survival in that place ---------- were
completely destroyed, the UN said on its website.
«The little that is known so far -- about the current conditions
in El Fasher is truly terrible», said the director of
Emergency Preparedness and Response -- at
the World Food Programme, Ross Smith.
«We know that between 70,000 and 100,000 people
could remain trapped inside the city», he said.
In addition, the UN indicated that satellite images showed
blood stains related to massacres of civilians and
''ethnically motivated'' executions there.
Access for aid teams continues to be a priority, he added and
warned about communication cuts with those who remain
in El Fasher.
Testimonies from survivors describe the city as a crime scene
with massacres, burned bodies and abandoned markets.
We ask to be able to arrive unhindered to help those
in need, Smith said.
Likewise, he pointed out that the assistance teams intend to
carry out initial evaluations and reconnaissance and
recalled ---- that those who managed to flee that
territory risked their lives on roads littered
with mines and unexploded ordnance.
There are families who endured famine and mass atrocities for
months, and who now live in overcrowded conditions with
......very little support. There is not enough shelter for
people; many are housed in makeshift structures.
The outbreak of cholera and other diseases
is widespread, he explained.
____________________________________
A Road Accident in Cameroon
causes murderous explosion
December 12th, 9:51am
(Prensa Latina)
Today, rescuers continue the search for victims of the
explosion of a tanker truck loaded with fuel, on a
highway in southwestern Cameroon, official
sources reported.
The disaster occurred when the vehicle caused a multiple
accident involving a still undetermined number of cars
in the city of Tiko.
The first count of fatalities from the collision --- is eight, but
everything indicates that it will increase as rescue efforts
progress, according to the initial report, which mentions
several injuries ...without providing figures.
The first investigations into the cause of the accident show
that the driver of the heavy vehicle lost control .....and hit
other cars traveling on the road.
____________________________________
Zimbabwe and Cuba --- highlight
high level of bilateral relations
December 12th, 1:35am
(Prensa Latina)
Zimbabwe and Cuba today evaluated the evolution
of bilateral relations .....and the reciprocal will
to strengthen them - as very positive.
The Ambassador of the Caribbean nation, Suselys Pérez
Mesa, and the Director of Europe and America of the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade,
Bernadette Ntaba Kadyamuma, highlighted the
high level of ties and --- in particular --- the
exchange of important delegations
during 2025.
During a meeting at the headquarters of the Zimbabwe Foreign
Ministry, both parties agreed on expanding collaboration in
various spheres, with work trips to Cuba by a Special
Envoy of President Emerson D. Mnangagwa, two
Ministers and three Vice Ministers.
The official visit to this African country by the President of the
Council of State and the National Assembly, Esteban Lazo
Hernández, had special significance –they highlighted.
The Ambassador and the Director of Europe and America,
exchanged work priorities for 2026 in order to diversify
and strengthen --- their excellent bilateral relations.
Pérez Mesa reiterated his gratitude for Zimbabwe's historic
support for the fight against the blockade expressed
during 2025 in various stands in Harare, New
York and Havana.
Likewise, they discussed other topics
of regional and international interest.
Cuba and Burkina Faso ---
celebrate diplomatic ties
December 11th, 1:08pm
(Prensa Latina)
Cuba today congratulated the people of Burkina Faso on
the occasion of the 65th and 50th anniversaries of its
independence and the establishment of diplomatic
relations, respectively.
«Our people are united by strong and historical ties of
friendship and cooperation», assured the Cuban
Foreign Ministry on the social network X.
Cuba and Burkina Faso maintain excellent bilateral ties,
characterized by friendship and solidarity between
both countries.
Together they have collaborated in various spheres,
particularly in the fields of health, education and
sports, providing mutual support.
The Caribbean nation also appreciates the invariable
position of the sister country in favour of lifting the
economic, commercial and financial blockade
imposed by the United States.
_______________________________
UN estimates that some 10 million
people are displaced in Sudan
December 11th, 12:06pm
(Prensa Latina)
The United Nations estimates that some 10 million people,
half of them children, have been displaced in Sudan due
to the war, local media informed on Thursday.
Catherine Russell, Executive Director of the United Nations
Children’s Fund (UNICEF), who visited the African country,
noted that more than 30 million people in Sudan need
humanitarian assistance.
Russell emphasized - that millions of children are trapped in
besieged and hard-to-reach areas, especially in the Darfur
and Kordofan regions, where food, water, and medical
supplies are scarce.
The official also reported that families attempting to flee - face
dangerous routes, and those who reach safer areas are often
malnourished, sick, and distressed.
Since mid-April 2023 - Sudan has been embroiled in a war,
between the legitimate Army Chief, General Abdel Fattah
al-Burhan, & leader of the US-backed paramilitary Rapid
Support Forces, General ''Mohamed'' Hamdan Diablo.
________________________________________________________
South African manufacturing production
registers slight progress in October
December 11th, 11:am
(Prensa Latina)
South Africa's manufacturing production grew 0.2%
in October 2025, compared to the same month of
the previous year, with 8 out of ten industrial
divisions showing positive results.
As revealed today by the national statistical entity, Stats SA,
the largest contribution came from food and beverages
....with an increase of 1.9% that added 0.5% to the
total, followed by electrical machinery, which
advanced 6.5% adding 0.2 points.
In contrast, the division of wood, paper, publishing and printing
fell 6.9%, subtracting 0.7 points, while glass and non-metallic
minerals decreased 5.8% - a negative impact of 0.2 points.
In seasonally adjusted terms, manufacturing production
increased 1% in October compared to September, after
monthly variations of 0.3% in September and 0.4%
in August.
In the quarter ended in September, adjusted production
grew 0.4% compared to the previous period,
with 6 divisions in positive territory.
In the report, the items of petroleum products, chemicals,
rubber and plastics (2.1% --- contributing 0.4 points) as
furniture and “other” manufactured products (9.9%,
stood out, also with 0.4 points).
The wood and paper division was once again the main
negative factor, with a drop of 5.8% and an
impact of -0.6 points.
Regarding sales, results showed less favourable behaviour.
Seasonally adjusted manufacturing sales fell 0.8% in
October from September, after increases of 0.4%
in September and 0.7% in August.
However, in the quarter ending in September there
was an increase of 1%.... compared to the
previous quarter.
The greatest positive contributions to sales came from the
division of iron and steel, non-ferrous metals, metal
products and machinery, which advanced 5.3%
and added ....1% to the total.
The furniture and “other” manufactured category was
also highlighted, with a growth of 8.2 % and a
contribution of 0.3 points.
The official report highlights that, despite the slight
improvement in production, the monthly drop in
sales --- shows the need to strengthen the
competitiveness and diversification
of South African industry.
The economic authorities consider that stability in
sectors such as chemicals, plastics and metals
can serve as a basis to consolidate sustained
growth in the coming months.
___________________________________________
Employment in South Africa .....
shows slight quarterly rebound
December 11th, 10:07am
(Prensa Latina)
The South African labour market registered an increase of
29,000 positions in the third quarter of 2025 - equivalent
to an increase of 0.3% compared to the previous period.
According to an official statement in this regard issued by
the national statistical entity, Stats SA, the total number
of employed people amounted to 10,549,000 compared
to the 10,520,000 reported in June.
This growth was supported by the community services
sectors (39,000 jobs, 1.4%), commerce (6,000, 0.3%)
and mining (5,000, 1.1%), while electricity and
transportation remained unchanged.
In contrast, setbacks were reported in business services
(- 12,000, - 0.5%), manufacturing (- 5,000, - 0.4%) and
construction (- 4,000, - 0.7%).
In the year-on-year comparison, according to the report,
total employment decreased by 79,000 positions,
which represents a drop of 0.7% compared to
September 2024.
On the other hand, full-time employment decreased by
21,000 positions (- 0.2%) in the quarter, going from
9,426,000 in June --- to 9,405,000
....in September.
The reduction was concentrated in business services (-18,000,
- 0.8%), manufacturing (- 4,000, - 0.3%), community services
(- 3,000, - 0.1%) and trade (- 3,000, - 0.1%).
On the other hand, mining added 5,000 jobs (1.1%) and
construction 1,000 (0.2%). In annual terms, full-time
employment fell by 72,000 positions (- 0.8%).
Part-time work showed a different behaviour, with an
increase of 50,000 positions (4.6%) in the quarter,
going from 1,094,000 in June to 1,144,000
in September.
The advance was due to community services (42,000,
9.5%), commerce (8,000, 3.3%) and business
services (6,000, 2.5%).
However, adds Stats SA, construction lost 5,000 jobs (- 7.2%)
and manufacturing lost 1,000 (- 1.2%). In the annual
comparison, partial employment was reduced by
7,000 positions (- 0.6%).
In terms of incomes, gross remuneration amounted to about
53 billion USD in September, which represents an increase
of 1.1% compared to June.
The increase was explained by higher payments in business
and community services, mining, manufacturing, electricity
and construction, while transportation and commerce
reported decreases. In the annual comparison,
salaries grew by 155 billion USD, equivalent
to 3.2%.
Core wages rose by $113 billion (0.9%) in the
quarter and $154 billion (3.5%) for the year.
In addition, bonuses rose by 45 billion USD (10.9%) compared to
June and 16 billion USD (3.7%) compared to September 2024.
In contrast, overtime payments fell by US$24 billion (- 11.1%)
in the quarter and US$14 billion (- 6.9%) in the year.
Finally, the Stats SA report reveals.. that the average
monthly income was the equivalent of 1,560 USD
in August, with an increase of 0.3%, compared
to May and 4.3% in the year-on-year
comparison.
_________________________________________________
Chancellor defends Europe
and supports solution in
Western Sahara
December 10th, 12:10pm
(Prensa Latina)
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Spain, José Manuel Albares,
today defended the sovereignty of Europe against criticism
from the United States, at the same time, he considered
a solution on Western Sahara.
Appearing at his own request before the Congress of Deputies,
Albares stressed that Europe «has to take a leap -- in its
sovereignty. We Europeans are the ones who have
to defend the integrity” of the continent.
Without explicitly mentioning US President Donald Trump in his
repeated criticism of Europe, the head of Spanish diplomacy
stressed the need to consolidate European sovereignty,
at the same time, he regretted the silence of the
right of the Popular Party (PP) and Vox on this
issue and about Gaza & Ukraine, issues
addressed by Albares, expressing
Spain's support for Palestine..
and the Ukrainian people.
On the other hand, he maintained that the Western Sahara
conflict cannot continue another half century unresolved
and sought Spain's absolute support for the UN and a
recent Security Council resolution.
«In the Sahara, a pending issue that has lasted 50 years,
we cannot allow another half century like it», said
Albares, underlining his support “without
hesitation - for the United Nations».
A position that is not endorsed by the Polisario Front,
which considers the right of the Sahrawis to their
independence and sovereignty of their territory
in Western Sahara ------- non-negotiable
_______________________________________
Cuba and Malawi celebrate
diplomatic ties
December 10th, 10:03am
(Prensa Latina)
Today Cuba, together with the people and government
of the Republic of Malawi, celebrates the 28th
anniversary of the establishment of
diplomatic relations between
both nations.
«Our country reiterates its willingness to continue working
to strengthen ties of friendship between both countries
and establish bilateral collaboration», the island's
Foreign Ministry expressed on social network X.
Both countries established diplomatic relations
on December 10, 1997 and their ties show
positive results.
In the Antillean nation, scholarship holders from that country
in southeastern Africa have graduated from medical school,
which has always supported Cuban resolutions in the
United Nations --- against the US blockade.
________________________________________
Rebels in the DRC - took the
city of Uvira, near Burundi
December 10th, 9:13am
(Prensa Latina)
The rebels of the Congo River Alliance-March 23 Movement
(AFC/M23) took the city of Uvira today, in the province of
South Kivu in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
According to Radio Okapi, the city, which after the fall of
Bukavu into the hands of the AFC/M23 last February
was designated as the provisional capital of the
province, it did not resist the insurgents,
supported by the Rwandan army.
Several witnesses confirmed to the media the visible
presence of rebel groups on the main roads of the
city, while others...... were heading towards
Kavinvira, on the border with Burundi.
This Wednesday, the city woke up under the control of the
DRC Armed Forces, but around noon the rebels entered
without encountering resistance. Well, according to
local sources, the Congolese army had already
withdrawn the day before, in the direction of
Swima, Makobola and Baraka, in the
territory of Fizi.
Some shots were reported in areas where fighters from local
militias called Wazalendo were still visible; while Burundi's
Foreign Minister Edouard Bizimana confirmed at 1:00 p.m,
local time, that the border between both countries
remained open.
The most recent report of the United Nations Group of Experts
on the DRC ensures that the AFC/M23, supported by Rwanda,
has the objective of achieving autonomy in the areas it
controls in eastern Congo - which is reflected in its
entrenchment strategy and the establishment of
a parallel government - in occupied territories.
“Since April 2025, AFC/M23 has intensified its efforts to
consolidate its military control through increased
recruitment, improved military training, and the
coordinated redeployments of troops and
operations - in North and South Kivu”,
the report stated.
In July this year, the movement's permanent secretary
and chief negotiator in Doha, Benjamin Mbonimpa,
declared that they were proposing federalism
as a form of governance.
____________________________________________
Unicef warns -- of worst cholera
outbreak in 25 years in the DRC
December 10th, 7:19am
(Prensa Latina)
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) warned
of the persistence now of an unprecedented cholera
outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo,
considered the worst in 25 years.
Since January 2025, more than 64 thousand people were
affected by this disease ---- with almost 1,900 deaths
recorded, where children represent a significant
proportion of the sick and deceased, with
14 thousand and 340, respectively.
According to Unicef, one in four Congolese children has been
hit by cholera, and they pointed out as an example of the
seriousness of the crisis -- that 15 minors died in a
single community home in Kinshasa.
The lack of drinking water and sanitary infrastructure continues
to be the main cause of the epidemic, noted the agency's report,
which mentions other factors that make the panorama more
complex, such as conflicts, displacement, heavy rains
and unplanned urbanization.
They also accused.. a lack of information and delays in access
to medical care, which causes an increase in mortality rates.
Unicef meant that, despite the Multisectoral Plan for the
Elimination of Cholera and the Cholera-Free Congo
River initiative, resources to stop the epidemic
are insufficient.
They added that the UN agency supports emergency
interventions, improvements in public hygiene and
specific actions in sources of infection, but by
2026 its financing is insufficient, hence the
call to the Government and international
partners to urgently increase their
support ..to avoid a further loss
of life.
_____________________________________________
Collapse of two buildings
in Morocco leaves about
20 dead
December 10th, 6:03am
(Prensa Latina)
The collapse today of two adjacent buildings in the Moroccan
city of Fez left 20 dead, although this number may rise while
rescue efforts continue.
The authorities indicated that over 15 serious
injuries have also been reported..... so far.
The buildings, with four floors each, were located in the
Al Mustaqbal neighbourhood, and eight families lived
there, the sources added.
Rescue teams are already working in the area to remove
the victims from the rubble and transport the injured.
According to the Moroccan state news agency, MAP, residents
in several nearby houses were also evacuated due to the risk
of collapse, and at the moment the causes of the tragedy are
unknown, as Fez is a city with a moderate level of seismic
activity, according to specialists.
_____________________________________________
Conflicts and food security,
centre for African entity
on 2025
by Nara Romero Rams
Chief correspondent in Ethiopia
December 10th, 12:17am
(Prensa Latina)
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD)
had intense work in 2025 in favour of resolving internal
conflicts through dialogue, food security and stability
in the Horn of Africa.
The situation in South Sudan captured part of the attention
of an African entity, being the centre of several meetings
with the parties involved, regional actors and
international partners who reaffirmed the
Revitalized Agreement on Conflict
Resolution (R-Arcss) of 2018 as
a cornerstone of the peace
process in that country.
Last March, the final declaration of the forty-third Extraordinary
Summit of Heads of State and Government of the IGAD, held
virtually to address the evolving situation in Juba, it was
stressed that dialogue and debate -- remain the only
means to resolve differences.
The entity expressed deep concern about the deterioration
of security conditions in that nation, characterized by the
resurgence of violence, the increase in violent incidents,
and violations of ceasefire commitments.
Likewise, alarms went off due to growing tensions in the
South Sudanese capital and elsewhere at the time,
after the Nasir incident and the arrest of senior
military officials ---- and the South Sudan
People's Liberation Movement party.
It condemned the death of the commander of the South
Sudan People's Defense Forces in Nasir, General
Majur Duk, and others, including a UN team
during the evacuation.
The statement urged the parties to immediately de-escalate
tensions, adhere to the permanent ceasefire, as well as
prioritize and accelerate the application of transition
security provisions by providing the necessary
resources in a timely manner.
As an agreement, the Monitoring and Verification Mechanism
for Ceasefire and Transitional Security Provisions --- would
carry out an investigation into the clashes in that town
and the attack on the helicopter from the UN ---- to
determine the facts and ensure responsibility
for any violations.
Finally, he welcomed the grassroots peace talks and
encouraged religious and traditional leaders, and
civil society -- to support reconciliation actions,
advocate for the inclusion & empowerment of
women, youth and other under-represented
groups in society.
The extraordinary summit was attended by senior
representatives from Djibouti, Ethiopia, Somalia,
Kenya, Uganda, the African Union, observer
mechanisms and special envoys of the
regional entity, from the African
continental organization and
the UN, to South Sudan.
To follow up on what was agreed, the executive secretary
of IGAD, Workneh Gebeyehu, made a working visit to
South Sudan days later, during which he held
meetings with local authorities about the
peace agreement.
Gebeyehu chaired a meeting with the presidents of the
Joint Commission for Monitoring and Reconstituted
Evaluation, Maj Gen Charles, and from the Cease-
fire Verification and Monitoring Mechanism and
Transitional Security Agreements, Major
General Hailu Gonfa, to discuss the
report ...on the implementation of
the ceasefire agreement in Juba.
CRISIS IN SUDAN, ANOTHER PENDING TASK
Since the outbreak in April 2023 - of clashes in Sudan over
power issues between Army Chief Abdel Fatah al-Burhan,
and the leader of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces,
Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, the situation focused several
meetings at the regional and continental level.
Thus, on February 14, the High-Level Humanitarian Conference
for the people of Khartoum took place, organized by Ethiopia,
the African Union, the United Arab Emirates and IGAD.
The objective of the meeting was to mobilize international
support and humanitarian assistance for that country ----
that faces the main displacement crisis on the planet,
according to experts, with over 14 million people
out of their homes, while the death toll rises
to more than 24,000.
The event held at the Africa Hall was attended by UN Secretary
General António Guterres and outgoing President of the
African Union Commission Moussa Faki Mahamat,
the president of Kenya, William Ruto, the prime
minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, and
Gebeyehu, plus other delegations.
Subsequently, on March 18, the IGAD Special Envoy Forum met
in Ethiopia with the aim of establishing a unified and concrete
approach to the resolution of the conflict in Sudan.
Gebeyehu, at that time, reaffirmed the regional entity's
commitment to a peace process led and assumed
by the Sudanese.
AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT, REGIONAL IMPERATIVE
From January 9 to 11, Uganda hosted the Extraordinary Summit
of Heads of State and Government of the African Union on the
Comprehensive Program for the Development of Agriculture
in Africa (CAADP), focused on shaping the post-Malabo
continent's agri-food systems agenda for 2026-2035.
The executive secretary of IGAD led a high-level delegation
that reiterated its commitment to regional food security,
sustainable agriculture and building resilience.
With an eye toward that purpose, Gebeyehu participated
in discussions focused on critical challenges and
opportunities in the Horn of Africa region,
including improving agricultural
productivity, cooperation on
food systems & addressing
climate change impacts.
A key focus for the delegation was to align
the organization's regional priorities with
the broader Caadp agenda.
With its participation in the conclave, IGAD strengthened
its alliances with AU member states and development
partners, in addition to taking advantage of the
results of the summit...... to advance
their agenda.
Since its creation in 2003, the Caadp has been a cornerstone
of Africa's agricultural transformation by promoting efforts
to achieve a 6% annual growth rate in the sector, in
addition to encouraging AU Member States to
allocate at least 10% of their budgets
to agriculture.
Based on the 2014 Malabo Declaration, the program's agenda
is focused on eradicating hunger, reducing malnutrition and
building resilient agricultural systems.
Looking inward..... at the end of July, the ministers and heads of
delegation responsible for Agriculture and Food Security, of the
IGAD Member States (Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South
Sudan and Uganda) met in Ethiopia... within the framework of
the Balance of the United Nations Summit on Food Systems.
In this space, IGAD highlighted the need --- to explore
transformative, inclusive and sustainable solutions
to guarantee food security in the Horn of Africa.
Gebeyehu recalled that the region is rich in
agricultural potential, genetic resources
and the ingenuity of its people.
He specified that promoting strategic alignment and
collective action - as well as developing a common
set of priorities to guide policy reform, investment
and collaboration - are among the priorities.
He considered that the adoption of the joint statement
reaffirmed the shared vision and political will to take
bold and coordinated action, including investment
priorities, to establish institutional monitoring
mechanisms and forge alliances between
multiple stakeholders.
This would ensure “that our commitments translate into
real impact for the millions of people whose lives and
livelihoods depend on the food systems we shape”,
he said.
The enormous and largely untapped potential of the Horn
of Africa region for agricultural transformation and
innovation in food systems was recognized,
particularly in terms of seed safety,
agrobiodiversity and climate-
smart agriculture.
Likewise, in the sustainable management of land and water,
digital technologies, early warning systems and inclusive
and responsible investment.
He raised the need to transform agricultural systems and food
value chains by enabling precision agriculture, improving
predictive analytics, optimizing resource use --- and
strengthening data-driven policies and planning.
Between internal conflicts, combating the effects of climate
change and achieving the long-awaited food security, the
Intergovernmental Authority on Development closes
another year betting on economic growth, political
and social, of the over 140 million inhabitants
of the Horn of Africa.
______________________________________________
South Africa - raises more than
$600 million for infrastructure
December 9th, 12:01pm
(Prensa Latina)
South Africa's National Treasury announced today that its
first Infrastructure and Development Bond raised around
$620 million to finance strategic works.
According to an official statement to this effect, the operation
aroused broad interest in the markets, receiving offers
exceeding 1.37 billion dollars, which represented
a subscription rate of 2.2 times.
According to the entity, resources will be directed exclusively
to the Budget Facility for Infrastructure (BFI) program, a
mechanism that supports priority projects through
rigorous selection criteria.
The total amount was distributed over two maturity periods:
about $368 million in the RI2036 bond, with an interest rate
of 8.575 percent, and about $252 million in RI2041, with a
return of 9.13 percent.
The allocation was made in accordance with current market
conditions, with the objective of optimizing the State's
borrowing cost.
According to the statement, the issue is part of a set of reforms
outlined in the 2024 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement,
aimed at stimulating investment in infrastructure as an
engine of economic growth and improvement in
the provision of public services.
The Treasury highlighted that the strategy seeks to consolidate
long-term financing instruments capable of attracting private
capital towards projects of national interest.
During 2025, the government reconfigured the BFI to
open 4 annual bidding windows, instead of just one.
This change allows national ministries, provinces, municipalities
& state companies to request partial support for their projects,
in order to attract complementary financing from the private
sector. According to the authorities, the measure expands
the scale and quality of the public works portfolio and
strengthens business participation in its execution.
______________________________________
Nigerian minors held
captive by criminals
are ''rescued''
December 9th, 11:13am
(Prensa Latina)
A third of the 303 students of a Catholic school in the state
of Niger, northern Nigeria, kidnapped in November along
with several teachers -------- are safe today, their
relatives reported.
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu praised the action of security
forces in rescuing the captives of armed men, whom he
identified as «bandits» - although he refrained from
providing details of the operation that achieved
the release of the kidnapped people.
While their captivity lasted, small groups of minors took
advantage of the carelessness of their captors, to
escape and ....after traveling several kilometres
of thick jungle, returned to their loved ones.
This is the first major operation by the Nigerian armed forces
just over a week after the resignation of Defense Minister
General Mohammed Badaru Abubakar - for unspecified
reasons, although it is obvious, that the increase in
insecurity in the north of the country, is behind
the decision of the Military Chief.
Unlike similar actions by Islamist groups based in the north-
eastern state of Borno... the kidnapping of minors from the
school in the town of Papiri, the largest in a long sequence
of similar events in this West African country, its purpose
was to demand a cash ransom for one of the gangs that
have proliferated for years in northern Nigeria.
In the case of the Islamists --- they seek to overthrow
the central government ---- and establish a caliphate
governed by sharia ---- Muslim jurisprudence.
________________________________________
Flights between Johannesburg and
Perth - will boost tourism and trade
December 9th, 11:06am
(Prensa Latina)
The launch of a new direct Qantas Airways flight between
Johannesburg and Perth -- was received with optimism
today by South Africa's authorities, who highlighted
its impact on tourism and commercial exchange.
In this regard, the Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille,
stressed that this air connection represents more
than an expansion of the route network --- by
constituting a bridge between two nations
with historical ties ........and growing
opportunities for cooperation.
According to him, the initiative opens the door to a greater
flow of visitors, business and interpersonal relationships
between South Africa and Australia.
This criterion was shared by those attending the presentation
of the new route, also chaired by the Australian Minister of
Commerce and Tourism, Don Farrell, High Commissioner
Tegan Brink, as well as executives from Qantas, South
African Tourism, the Gauteng Tourism Authority and
the South African Tourism Business Council.
De Lille pointed out that the expansion of air connectivity
constitutes an essential pillar of the 2025-2029 Tourism
Growth Plan, focused on facilitating access through
new routes, more agile visa systems and the
elimination of travel barriers.
Recent sector data.. reflects a sustained recovery: international
seating capacity reaches 8.5 million, an increase of 9.1 percent
compared to 2024. Of these, 4.6 million correspond to long-
range routes and 3.9 million to regional routes, with
double-digit growth recorded since June 2025.
In this context, the Australian market ------ shows a positive
performance: arrivals in 2025 grew nearly 30% compared
to the previous year and exceed pre-pandemic levels by
10%, showing sustained expansion.
De Lille also highlighted that the new link will play a relevant
role..... in South Africa's preparation to host major sporting
competitions, such as Cricket World Cup 2027, creating
stronger cultural and sporting ties... with Australia.
__________________________________________
UN report ---- accuses: presence of seven
thousand Rwandan soldiers in the DRC
December 9th, 8:05am
(Prensa Latina)
A new report from the Group of Experts, created by the UN
Security Council, it indicated the presence in the territory
of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) of some
7,000 Rwandan soldiers, they reported today.
According to this source, the Rwandan Defense Forces were
conservatively considered to maintain at least 2 brigades
& 2 special forces battalions in the Congolese provinces
of North Kivu and South Kivu, in support of the rebellion
of the Rio-Congo Alliance March 23 Movement -----
(AFC/M23).
The report, referenced by Actualité.CD, added that these men
and media are positioned on the front line and participate
directly in the combat, in particular leading operations
against the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of
Rwanda in the territories of Nyiragongo
and Rutshuru.
They added that they are units created specifically for cross-
border operations in the DRC, which include elements of the
special forces and a significant number of reservists.
The report meant that an FDR brigade operated within the
AFC/M23 “First Defense Zone”, which encompassed
Goma, Nyiragongo, Binza, Bwito, Rutshuru, as
well as Kanyabayonga, Kirumba and Kipese.
Another brigade operated in the “Second Defense Zone”,
corresponding to Masisi, Walikale, Bibwe, Kalembe,
along the Pinga front line ....and in areas of South
Kivu such as Walungu, Mwenga and Minembwe.
The source indicated that Rwandan troops established a base
on the island of Idjwi, often used for troop deployments and
rotations across Lake Kivu, and that the support of these
units was crucial to the success of the operations,
particularly for the capture of new areas such
as Bibwe.
He also specified that they operated in separate formations,
despite joint maneuvers with the AFC/M23, and exhibited
distinctive movement patterns and accents, which
made them easily identifiable on the ground.
“The Group continued to document the FDR's use of
advanced military technologies and equipment,
including jamming and phishing systems”,
the report noted.
__________________________________________
New clashes in the DRC
leave at least 74 dead
December 9th, 7:34am
(Prensa Latina)
The escalation of clashes in the last week in the Democratic
Republic of the Congo, in the province of South Kivu, today
it leaves at least 74 dead and 83 injured, mainly civilians,
according to a United Nations report.
The UN humanitarian coordinator in the DRC, Bruno Lemarquis,
denounced an alarming rise in violence due to confrontations
between the rebels of the Congo River Alliance-March 23
Movement (AFC/M23) and the Congolese Armed
Forces and their allies.
In particular, he referred to the attacks carried out between
December 2 and 7 with heavy weapons and bombings in
populated areas, mainly in the territories of Uvira,
Walungu, Mwenga, Shabunda, Kabare, Fizi and
Kalehe; while the continuity of the fighting -
prevents the evacuation of the wounded.
He indicated that in recent days attacks on civilian
infrastructure, including schools, have also been
reported, which constitutes a serious violation
of international humanitarian law.
“I am deeply shocked by the devastating impact of this
fighting on the civilian population. It is imperative to
prevent more victims from adding to the already
tragic death toll”, Lemarquis' statement said.
He added that the use of explosive weapons in populated
areas and attacks on civilian infrastructure are causing
unacceptable loss of life and must stop immediately.
“Civilians and civilian infrastructure are not
targets”, he declared.
According to the humanitarian coordinator, this wave of
violence caused new displacements of people, with an
initial estimate of more than 200,000 moving within
the same province since December 2nd, while
thousands more... crossed the border into
neighbouring countries, like Burundi
and Rwanda.
Living conditions for these people are precarious, with
overcrowded shelters, increased risk of gender-based
violence, spread of disease and limited access to
medical care; hence -- these displacements
aggravate the situation ------ in a province
that hosts 1.2 million internal refugees.
“On behalf of the humanitarian community, I urge all
parties to the conflict to respect their obligations
----- under international humanitarian law”,
Lemarquis emphasized.
He added that the protection of civilians --- must be
guaranteed, their distinction respected in military
operations and the safe, rapid and unimpeded
access of humanitarian actors to provide
vital assistance -------- must be ensured,
including medical care for the injured.
The increase in war actions occurs after the ratification of
the Peace Agreement signed in Washington, US, by the
presidents of the DRC and Rwanda, on December 4.
The humanitarian coordinator, highlighted the importance of
the instrument to achieve peace, “but for this hope to come
true, the violence must stop immediately and the
commitments made must be translated into
concrete actions on the ground”,
he stressed.
___________________________________________
South Africa presents
national study on
HIV stigma
December 9th, 7:19am
(Prensa Latina)
South Africa today presents a report that examines the
persistent challenges and opportunities for positive
change - in the face of stigma and discrimination
towards people living with HIV.
The document - HIV Stigma Index 2.0 - collects the
experiences of over 5,000 participants in the nine
provinces of the country, with special attention
to 18 urban and rural districts.
According to an official statement to this effect, their
findings seek to guide public policies and programs
aimed at improving the quality of life of those
facing the disease.
The presentation will take place at the National
Research Foundation, under the leadership of
the National Association of People Living
with HIV and AIDS (NAPWA), in
collaboration with the Human
Sciences Research Council
(HSRC), the National AIDS
Council (SANAC) --- and
international partners.
Ministry of Health Senior representatives, civil
organizations and affected communities, are
expected to attend ----- with the purpose of
discussing the study's recommendations.
The report highlights the importance of community
initiatives and a multi-sectoral approach to
tackling discrimination.
According to its authors, the active participation of
communities is essential to dismantle prejudices
and guarantee equitable access to health
services and social support.
Recently, during the commemoration of World AIDS Day,
Vice President Paul Mashatile highlighted the
introduction of lenacapavir, a long-acting
preventive treatment that offers six
months of protection - with just
two injections a year.
The South African Medical Devices Regulatory Authority
(SAHPRA) approved its registration in October this year,
making the country the first in Africa and the third in
the world -- to authorize it.
Mashatile said this innovation will protect adolescents and
key populations facing stigma and vulnerability, such as
women and girls, people who use drugs, sex workers
and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
At the same time, he urged the nation to bravely confront
stigma, fund research, and ensure that these treatments
reach everyone.
Specialists consider that the launch of the Stigma Index 2.0
represents a decisive step in building a more solid national
response, which combines science, political commitment
and social participation to move towards a South Africa
free of discrimination and with greater health justice.
_____________________________________________
They highlight the contribution
of Cuban combatants to the
independence of Angola
December 8th, 11:48am
(Prensa Latina)
The contribution of Cuban combatants to the independence
of Angola ----- was highlighted today at the event held in
Luanda, in commemoration of the 69 years of the
Armed Forces Revolutionaries (FAR) of the
Caribbean nation.
In the presence of the Cuban ambassador, Oscar León,
Lieutenant General Manuel Payva, representing the
Chief of Staff of the Angolan Armed Forces....
deeply thanked the island ----- and stressed
that the bilateral relationship transcends
cooperation and is based on friendship.
He added that this brotherhood and solidarity were forged in
the heat of struggle and shared sacrifices, and reiterated,
half a century after the arrival of Cuban internationalists
to Angolan lands, eternal gratitude.... to those who
resisted side by side with the people --- to fight
forces that tried to frustrate independence.
“Cubans were by our side, in the most difficult moments, not
only soldiers, but teachers, doctors, builders….. it is an epic
like no other that will remain alive in our collective memory
and will be an inspiration for new generations”, he said.
Payva expressed common interest in strengthening the bilateral
relationship and expressed solidarity with the people of the
Caribbean nation - in the face of the damage caused by
Hurricane Melissa.
The military attaché of the Cuban Embassy in Angola, Colonel
Enrique Kindelán, recalled the history of the emergence of
the FAR, in 1956, in the heat of the fight against the
tyranny of Fulgencio Batista (1952-1958).
He pointed out that since the triumph of the Cuban Revolution,
on January 1, 1959, the FAR has always been with the people
facing the aggressions of the US and difficult times, like the
current emergency situation caused by the recent passage
of a tropical cyclone.
He affirmed that Cuba will continue to be a bastion of solidarity,
as demonstrated here in Angola, and recalled milestones of
the Cuban military presence for, along with the Angolans,
defend the independence and territorial integrity of
the country.
He also dedicated words to the founder of the FAR and historical
leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro, who next year
commemorates the centenary of his birth, and he invited
us to celebrate the date together, but above all ------ to
keep his ideas alive.
The general secretary of the Federation of Former Combatants
and Veterans of the Homeland, Brigadier Vicente Junior, also
participated in the event, expressing total solidarity with
Cuba and its sister army, with which they shared the
defense of the national territory.
Representing the Forum of Ex-Combatants.... of the Battle of Cuito
Cuanavale, Manuel Fernández Patiasca recalled his participation
in the battle of Kifangondo, in 1975, and where the participation
of the Cubans was decisive ----- in rejecting the invading forces
and declaring independence.
At the ceremony, where Lieutenant General Remígio do Espirito Santo,
second commander of the Angolan Army, was also present; members
of the diplomatic corps; military attachés and members of solidarity
organizations with Cuba, the Embassy presented recognition --- to
the Kifangondo Battle Memorial.
___________________________________________
UN condemned death
of civilians in Sudan
December 8th, 10:47am
(Prensa Latina)
The UN today condemned recent drone attacks by the so-called
Rapid Support Forces in the Sudanese state of South Kordofan,
which caused the death of dozens of children.
Through its official website, the United Nations also denounced
the attacks against emergency teams trying to help the injured.
In a statement released by spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric,
the secretary general of the multilateral organization,
António Guterres, expressed his dismay at the
actions against a hospital and a children's
centre, as against the members of the
humanitarian assistance brigades.
For his part, the director general of the World Health Organization,
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, denounced that the Kalogi Rural
Hospital was attacked on at least three occasions, with a
death toll of 114, including 63 minors.
We make urgent calls for blood donations and other types of medical
support. Alarmingly, paramedics and response personnel were
attacked while trying to transport the injured from daycare
to hospital, he added.
The UN warned -- that the situation in Sudan is
catastrophic, and expressed concern.. about
millions of people - trapped in the fighting
between the Sudanese Armed Forces
and the paramilitary group.
The terrible human rights violations and abuses reported in El Fasher
in recent months ------ must not be repeated in the Kordofan region.
We urge: the immediate cessation of fighting and of stopping
the flow of weapons, Dujarric said.
The Secretary-General renews his call on the parties to agree to an
end to hostilities - and resume talks to achieve a lasting ceasefire
and a comprehensive political process, inclusive and controlled
by the Sudanese. The United Nations stands ready to support
genuine measures to chart a path to peace, he said.
_______________________________________________
Women of the world marched
through Western Sahara
December 8th, 8:50am
(Prensa Latina)
Dakhla is a city in Western Sahara occupied by Morocco, which
has its correlation in a Refugee Camp of the same name, the
furthest from Rabuni... where the central administration of
the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic operates in exile.
The streets of the Dakhla Camp received the IV March of the
International Women's Platform for Western Sahara, PIMSO,
with the participation of delegations from Africa, Europe
and Latin America, an inspiring feat of solidarity ------
for a just cause.
For the first time, a delegation of women from the territories
occupied by Morocco participated in this demonstration.
This solidarity action has been carried out since 2022
and, on this occasion, was framed in the 50 years of
resistance of the Sahrawi people ----------- for their
self-determination.
The program of activities began on Monday, December 1 and
included visits to educational, cultural, health centres, and
political organizations, of human rights --- and of women
located in the different camps of the refuge.
The agenda ended on Saturday, December 6, with a farewell
ceremony...... led by Brahim Gali, president of the SADR.
“You return to your countries full of will, determination, firmness
of support and accompaniment to these people in their long
struggle” said the president ...before the many different
delegations present.
And he added: “We have opened our houses, our families' houses.
But before we open our houses to you, we have opened our
hearts to you. That is the essence and we have always
considered you part of the family. We have never felt
that you are foreigners within the Sahrawi people”.
For her part, Suelma Beiruk, Minister of Social Affairs and Promotion
of Women of the SADR, stated that the objective of the PIMSO is to
accompany the struggle of the Sahrawi people, especially to
women, breaking the blockade that exists, bringing the
voice of Sahrawi women... to international bodies.
During the activities of the march, there were also interventions
by the governor of Auserd, Jira Bulahi; Ana Aranda, councilor
of Pedrera; Mariam Bendiba, president of the National Union
of Algerian Women of southern Algeria, and Nebija
Mohamed Ahmed, member of the Collective of
Sahrawi Human Rights Defenders in Western
Sahara, CODESA.
Salha Boutanguiza, a journalist in the Occupied Territories,
also shared her opinions; Marilin Dos Santos, Head of
Feminisms at Podemos (Spain); and Teotiste
Pérez Sanz, for PIMSO.
From Argentina, the Venezuelan journalist and poet Dayana
López, arrived at the Camps, who shared her poetry in
tribute to the 50 years of resistance of the Sahrawi
people, compiled in his most recent book «My
hammock in your tent».
Before leaving for the actions of supportive women, Dayana
López made by hand, weaving the pages, copies of the
collection of poems that she carried in her backpack
to distribute, as the most authentic expression of
solidarity support for the Sahrawi cause.
________________________________________________
Angola Technology Forum will
debate artificial intelligence
December 8th, 8:36am
(Prensa Latina)
The sixth edition of the International Forum on Information and
Communication Technologies (ICT) of Angola, Angotic 2026,
will debate from June 11 to 13 in Luanda --- the impact
of digitalization and artificial intelligence.
The Minister of Telecommunications, Information Technologies
and Social Communication, Mário Oliveira, during the launch
of the event this Monday, highlighted the results achieved
in previous years -- and signified their importance for the
consolidation of the country within this field, in Africa.
In this sense, he mentioned that the aspiration is for Angotic to
become a reference space for the continent and the world, as
a meeting point - for decision-makers, businessmen, experts,
etc, entrepreneurs and representatives of the world of ICTs.
The sixth edition of the forum, which will be held under the motto
“On the path to digital transformation”, will have the challenge
of surpassing the previous call, when 117 national & foreign
companies met, together with more than 180 startups.
For next June, the organizers also expect the presence of high-level
entities, sector leaders and international experts, and they invited
institutions and companies to come together with creative ideas
related to the central theme.
Angotic 2026 becomes a stage every year for the presentation of new
products, the recruitment of talents and innovative projects, the
establishment of businesses and learning, from the workshops
and conferences that are held.
In 2025, more than 20 thousand visitors came to the event's
facilities, while about three thousand children participated
in educational activities.
_________________________________________
In South Africa, gender violence is
described as a national disaster
December 8th, 8:17am
(Prensa Latina)
The president of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, warned today
that violence against women and girls constitutes a national
disaster ---- that requires exceptional measures.
In the midst of the annual 16 Days of Activism campaign, the
South African president used his weekly newsletter to high-
light the magnitude of the crisis and remind that currently
all State bodies must perform accounts on the subject
to the National Centre for Disaster Management.
The decision, he said, seeks to accelerate resources, and
strengthen the institutional response to a scourge that
affects more than a third of women over 18 years of
age, according to the 2022 National Gender
Violence Study.
Ramaphosa pointed out how the impact of gender-based violence
is “more corrosive” than the devastation caused by the COVID-19
pandemic, since it destroys families, generates economic costs,
causes fear & insecurity & reproduces intergenerational trauma.
In that sense, he insisted that the classification as a national disaster
grants greater capacity to the ministries of Police, Justice, Health,
Basic Education and Social Development -- to expand shelters,
and support services and safe spaces.
During recent appearances before Parliament, the South African Police
and the Ministry of Justice reported on progress in case management
and strengthening the judicial system, he recalled... in the text.
Measures include the expansion of victim-friendly facilities, the
creation of specialized desks in police stations, the opening
of a GBVF Information Centre at the SAPS Academy in
Pretoria, a faster processing of evidence and the
implementation of a 24-hour service for
protective orders.
However, the head of state recognized that the implementation of
the National Strategic Plan against gender violence has been
unequal, and he trusted that the new classification will
speed up the financing of services for survivors and
improve access to justice.
Ramaphosa stressed: that men must
take centre stage ------ in prevention.
“If we do not directly involve men, the statistics will not change”,
he stated, while calling for sustained dialogues with men and
young people to confront the roots of violence, such as
toxic masculinity, harmful cultural norms and
social pressures.
Finally, the president emphasized that the fight against
gender violence -- requires an effort from all of society.
“A national disaster demands national responsibility”, he
summarized, urging communities, civil organizations,
religious leaders, unions and citizens to denounce
abuses and ........dismantle those attitudes that
perpetuate them.
_________________________________________
Nicaragua greeted Tanzania.... for the
64th anniversary of its independence
December 8th, 6:38am
(Prensa Latina)
Nicaragua extended a fraternal greeting to the people and
Government of the United Republic of Tanzania -- on the
occasion of the 64th anniversary of the independence
of that African nation, local media highlighted today.
In the official message, the co-presidents Daniel Ortega and
Rosario Murillo expressed their “warmest congratulations”
to the president of Tanzania, Samia Suluhu Hassana, his
administration and the brother people of that country,
when the historic date is commemorated this
December 9.
The statement recalled with respect and admiration the deeds
of the Mwalimu leader Julius Nyerere and the heroic
Tanzanian people, whose fight for freedom and
sovereignty marked a milestone in the
emancipation process of the
African continent.
“That December 9 (1961) illuminated the path of many peoples
of the global South who, like ours, have always defended the
inalienable right to live free of colonialism, interference
and foreign domination”, the text states.
Nicaragua also reiterated its commitment to continue
strengthening the ties of brotherhood, solidarity and
cooperation that historically unite both countries.
“From our Nicaragua, Always Blessed and Always Free,
receive our fraternal and revolutionary embrace, as
well as the solidarity affection... of all Nicaraguan
families”, the text concluded.
___________________________________________
Okapi populations in the DRC
shrank by 50% in 24 years
December 6th, 11:14am
(Prensa Latina)
Reports today estimate that the populations of okapi (Okapia
johnstoni), a species endemic to the Democratic Republic of
the Congo (DRC), decreased by about 50%... in 24 years.
According to reports submitted to the Convention on
International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild
Fauna and Flora, known as CITES, the number of
individuals was estimated between 35,000 and
50,000 in the 1990s, but experts consider that
until 2013 it fell by more than half.
According to the report, released by Actualité.CD, in the Okapis
Wildlife Reserve, one of the main strongholds of the species,
the decline is particularly marked. Until 2018 at least 60%
of the population of this reserve has been.... lost.
The mammal's habitat --- is under pressure, considering that
in the eastern DRC, forest loss has reached approximately
30% - in the last two decades.
Another factor of concern is illegal trade, with reports that,
since 2019, products from 10 okapis..... have crossed the
border into Uganda --- every month.
Since December 1st, this endemic species has been at the
highest level of international protection granted by CITES,
which prohibits all commercial exchange of the species,
its parts or its derivatives.
Statistics on the state of its habitat and the number of
individuals, were a part of the request to include the
mammal in Appendix I, that grants it that degree
of safeguard ......and complements the full
protection it enjoys in DRC legislation.
The Congolese Institute for Nature Conservation (ICCN) and
the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) warn of the need
to protect okapi ------ from the decline of the range of the
species, the reduction of its population, the poaching,
the habitat loss ......and illegal trade.
Currently the main groups survive in the Okapi Wildlife
Reserve, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO,
and the Lomami National Park; it is also present in
Maiko National Park, other protected areas, and
several community forests.
________________________________________________________
Ethiopia seeks to expand....
Chinese language teaching
December 6th, 7:49am
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopia and China discussed the expansion of the Asian
nation's language teaching in local schools, the Ministry
of Education reported today.
The head of the Ethiopian sector, Behanu Nega, spoke the day
before with the general director of the Center for Education
and Linguistic Cooperation of the Beijing Ministry of
Education, Yu Yunfeng.
Their meeting focused on strengthening cooperation in the
education sector between the two member states of Brics.
Yunfeng highlighted the long-standing ties between
the two nations and described Addia Ababa as
«China's strategic partner».
He specified that the Asian giant seeks to expand the
teaching of Chinese beyond the limited programs
currently offered at select universities.
“This would not only allow citizens to learn multiple
languages, but would also significantly contribute
to strengthening cooperation between peoples”,
he stated.
Nega, for his part, expressed the Ministry's interest in
expanding the scope of Chinese language teaching.
He noted that while programs have already begun
at some universities -- they need to be extended
to other institutions, including five new federal
high schools opening this academic year.
He also requested China's support
to provide qualified teachers.
Both sides agreed on the importance of developing a
curricular framework for teaching the Chinese
language in secondary schools.
Likewise, they committed to holding preliminary
conversations on curriculum development, the
provision of textbooks and the assignment of
teachers - to drive broader implementation.
Finally, they will establish a joint committee with the
objective of preparing a detailed agreement for the
implementation of the initiatives analyzed,
according to the source.
______________________________________
Economic issues marked the
weekly agenda - in Ethiopia
December 6th, 12:03am
(Prensa Latina)
A summit that highlighted the role of the capital market
and the visit of a delegation from the International
Monetary Fund (IMF) to evaluate the ongoing
economic reforms, marked today's week,
now ending, in Ethiopia.
Ethiopian Finance Minister Ahmed Shide, during a meeting
held last Tuesday, stated that the stock market will play
a fundamental role in strengthening integration into the
global financial system and improving the confidence
of investors.
Shide then stated that a well-regulated and transparent
financial platform is essential to align Addis Ababa
with international standards and expand its
access to global investment.
“Government securities, corporate bonds, stocks,
infrastructure instruments, international
capital gains and structured access to
productive sectors of our economy
---------- provides foreign investors
with clarity, consistency and
confidence,” he said.
In this regard, he stressed the importance of strong coordination
between institutions that play different roles in building a
credible, resilient, transparent financial ecosystem.
He pointed out that the government's responsibility is to establish
a fiscal and financial architecture that guides capital towards its
highest value .....and empowers citizens to participate in the
economic growth of the nation.
“In doing so, we are not simply financing infrastructure, businesses
or public services, we are financing the future of Ethiopia: a stable,
dynamic, inclusive and sustainable future”, he asserted.
The Ethiopian Finance Minister reported that infrastructure
development remains a critical priority - wherein capital
markets can be transformative.
“Capital markets allow us to convert infrastructure into an
investable asset class, through green bonds, municipal
bonds, income bonds, and infrastructure investment
funds, mobilizing both domestic and foreign capital
for long-term development”, he concluded.
For his part, the governor of the National Bank of Ethiopia,
Eyob Tekalign, defined access to capital - as a “powerful
engine” of economic growth and the expansion of the
private sector.
Tekalign stated that, with the launch and operationalization
of the capital market, the country now has a new platform
to mobilize and allocate those values efficiently.. to the
productive sectors.
That decision, he added, represents a strategic transition
away from dependence on bank-based financing toward
a more diversified landscape designed to attract long-
term investments, stimulate the development of the
private sector and support the country's economic
modernization efforts.
On the other hand, the deputy managing director of the IMF,
Nigel Clarke, who made his first official visit to the country
on December 3 and 4, spoke to Shide, Tekalign, and the
Minister of Planning and Development - Fitsum Assefa,
on economic reforms, the support of the IMF...... and
the prospects for continued collaboration.
During the discussions, Shide outlined recent progress on
local economic transformation initiatives and reiterated
the government's commitment - to consolidating their
achievements and maintaining momentum. He also
highlighted Addis Ababa's interest in maintaining
solid collaboration with the IMF.
Clarke, for his part, praised.. what he described as
«remarkable progress», under the country's Local
Economic Reform Programme, noting that several
difficult modifications - now have visible results.
It recognized the high level of preparation, coordination and
determination necessary to simultaneously advance fiscal,
monetary and structural transformations, and encouraged
the African nation ..........to maintain its current trajectory.
The official visit came amid discussions about the country's
fourth review ------- of the country's four-year $3.4 billion
Extended Credit Facility.
______________________________________
Niger accuses French nuclear
giant Orano of mass crimes
December 5th, 6:41pm
(PressTV)
French nuclear giant Orano has been accused of
"mass crimes" after the discovery of hundreds
of barrels containing hazardous radioactive
core materials in Niger.
On Thursday --- the Niger government announced that
the French state-owned Orano nuclear fuel company
had dumped “radioactive pollution” near a former
uranium site in northern Niger .....where it had
previously operated.
Niger's Mining Ministry reported --- that inspectors found
approximately 400 barrels with dangerously high levels
of radioactive substances which could cause chronic
respiratory disorders ---- at Madaouela.
The Nigerien government stated, that the disposal of
these barrels demonstrates... "predatory behaviour."
Niger’s Justice Minister, Alio Daouda, confirmed this week
that radiation levels in the area are significantly elevated
-- around 7 to 10 microsieverts per hour, compared to
the normal level of 0.5 microsieverts.
Daouda announced that Orano will face legal proceedings
for “mass crimes,” including environmental harm, public
health violations and breaches of national sovereignty.
“This illegal dump highlights Orano’s persistent disregard
for Niger and its people since uranium mining began,”
Daouda said, pledging that “Niger will not back
down in defending its sovereignty.”
To date, Orano has faced numerous environmental pollution
claims in Niger, with civil society groups in Arlit accusing
the company of ''irregularities in site rehabilitation'' in
recent years.
Despite increasing pressure, since the military coup in July
2023, Orano has maintained its defiance, claiming it holds
no operating license for Madaouela ......and has never
worked there.
This accusation against Orano arises amid a broader dispute
regarding its uranium operations in Niger. The military-led
government revoked Orano’s license for the Imouraren
deposit in June 2024.
Orano began its commercial uranium mining operations in Niger
at the Arlit deposit in 1971, extracting ore with concentrations
of 0.30–0.35 percent to depths of 60 metres.
_______________________________________________
Ethiopia will support Cameroon - in
telecommunications development
December 5th, 10:10am
(Prensa Latina)
A Framework Services Agreement will allow Ethiopia to support
Cameroon in its digital transformation efforts, an important
step to internationally expand the experience of
telecommunications company Ethio
Telecom, Fana Media Corporation
reported today.
The agreement signed in Yaoundé the day before - between the
Ethiopian state company and Telecommunications Cameroon
(Camtel) formalized the cooperation initiated after the
comparative evaluation visit of Cameroonian
executives to Addis Ababa in April
from 2025.
During the latter, camtel representation confirmed how its local
counterpart — Africa's pioneering provider of integrated
telecommunications and digital solutions ---- with
86.1 million subscribers ..and over 57.59 million
telebirr users, was fundamental to implement
the national strategy «Digital Ethiopia».
The Cameroonian company -- which operates the national fibre
optic backbone network of over 15,000 kilometres and offers
fixed and mobile services, internet and data centres in the
10 regions, works to build a modern digital economy
through network modernization, the expansion of
financial access ......and the digitalization of
public services.
The new agreement positions Ethio Telecom as a strategic
partner to advance this agenda through specialized
consulting and cross-immersion programs.
Likewise, it will support the development and launch of Blue
Money ----- Camtel's electronic payments platform, aimed at
improving financial inclusion in Cameroon.
It also provides for technical cooperation to digitize the provision
of public services, including the establishment of a sovereign
Government Cloud.
According to the source, Ethio Telecom -- will continue to drive
network modernization efforts towards 4G, 5G, and advanced
connectivity technologies, at the same time --- it will support
the Cameroonian company in organizational transformation
through the modernization of information systems, work
automation and customer-centric operations.
Likewise, it will allow you to advance in your “Next Horizon
Strategy: Digital and beyond 2028”, by launching regional
expansion initiatives ....and strengthening Ethiopia's
leadership role in Africa's digital transformation.
__________________________________________________
Three protesters against British
involvement in gold mining
were shot in Kenya
by Alexander Gatsak (Nairobi)
December 4th, 5:54pm
(Rossiyskaya Gazeta)
To share
In Kenya, three people were shot dead by security forces
during a demonstration against the presence of the
British gold mining company Shanta Gold Limited
in Kakamega County in the west of the East
African Republic. At least ten citizens
were injured, including journalists
and police officers.
According to reports, the population was outraged by the
National Environmental Protection Agency's decision to
hold a forum in coordination with the agency, which
focused on the initiative to relocate 800 families
due to the discovery of gold deposits in the
region, estimated to be worth at least
five billion dollars.
Local residents, led by an elder, refused to leave their ancestral
homes for the benefit of a foreign company. "We were not told
where to go after the relocation. This process should be
open and transparent," said the community leader.
Law enforcement agencies have stated that the deceased
were bandits hired by local politicians to incite unrest.
According to the report, more than 500 young
people with primitive weapons attacked
the police officers.
"We will use all the necessary means at our disposal
to bring the bandits to justice. It is wrong, to attack
police officers and journalists," a statement reads.
_____________________________________________________
DRC and Rwanda sign peace
in the US ------- with Trump
December 4th, 4:44pm
(Prensa Latina)
Although hostilities continue on the ground, at least today
the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda
signed in this capital the pipe of a peace negotiated by
the president of the United States, Donald Trump.
«I think it will be a great miracle», Trump told the press after the
signing of the pact, in which the presidents of the DRC, Felix
Tshisekedi, and of Rwanda, Paul Kagame, participated.
Addressing both dignitaries, at the US Peace Institute - that just
bears his name, Trump noted: «They spent a lot of time killing
each other - and now they are going to spend a lot of time
hugging, holding hands and taking economic advantage
of the United States, like other countries do».
However, the signatories adopted a less optimistic stance,
considering that fighting is still reported in eastern DRC.
The first armed conflict between the two countries
dates back to 1996.
«There will be ups and downs along the way, there is no doubt
about it», Kagame said, while Tshisekedi called this step
the «beginning of a new path, a demanding path».
Trump noted that the agreement will pave the way, for the United
States to access critical minerals in both African nations. «We're
going to take out some of the rare minerals», Trump said. «And
we are all going to earn ---------- a lot of money», he pointed out.
The name of the Republican president was added to the façade of
the United States Peace Institute, based in Washington DC, prior
to the signing of this pact. Trump has repeatedly highlighted his
efforts to resolve international conflicts so far in his 2nd term,
something he thought would support the Nobel Prize in 2025.
The occupant of the Oval Office assures, that he has contributed
to negotiating peace agreements between Israel and Hamas
- fragile for many observers -, Armenia and Azerbaijan,
Thailand and Cambodia, and this one from Rwanda
and the DRC.
The Barometer of Peace Agreements in Africa, which monitors the
effective implementation of this type of treaty, warned that five
months after the signing of the Washington instrument,
progress is fragile and uneven.
In its November report, it warned that there is stagnation in
implementation, with 19 of the 30 tasks identified in the
Agreement, only in their initial phase.
The Peace Institute was targeted by the defunct Department
of Government Efficiency (DOGE) in efforts by Trump and his
former ally Elon Musk to reduce the federal government;
however, a judge ruled in May, that the Department's
takeover ....was illegal.
White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly said in a statement that
the United States Peace Institute, “was, previously, an inflated
and useless entity that squandered $50 million a year without
achieving peace”.
_____________________________________________
DRC expects seriousness from Rwanda
in compliance with peace agreement
December 4th, 3:31pm
(Prensa Latina)
The president of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC),
Felix Tshisekedi, maintained that they expect from Rwanda
the same seriousness and commitment in complying with
the peace agreement signed today in Washington.. US.
Addressing those present at the ratification ceremony,
along with his Rwandan counterparts, Paul Kagame,
and US counterpart, Donald Trump; Tshisekedi
stressed that his country will honour
what was agreed.
“The DRC confirms its commitment and complete sincerity - to
do everything in its power to fulfill its obligations under this
agreement. We do it seriously, with rigour and with the
desire to achieve peace, the security of the
population, and the unity and integrity
of our territory”, he said.
He added that the same seriousness is expected of Kigali in
respecting the letter and spirit of the document signed in
Washington, which implies cooperation based on
mutual respect, the common fight against
armed groups --- and the end of the
maintenance of all negative
forces, he noted.
It also requires the opening of fair economic
relations --- for the benefit of both peoples.
Tshisekedi considered that the Washington process --- is not just a
text, but a coherent architecture that includes the Declaration of
Principles, the peace agreement, and the Regional Economic
Integration Framework, to offer a new perspective, end
the cycle of violence, and forced displacement ..and
enter an era of good neighbourliness, cooperation
and shared prosperity.
“For my part, I hope that this day marks the beginning of a new
path, a demanding path, certainly difficult, but a path where
peace is achieved”, he expressed.
The Congolese president reaffirmed that the DRC will do everything
on its part “with dignity, with conscience and perseverance --- and
with the support of its colleagues”, so that this process succeeds.
“We will be vigilant, but not pessimistic”, said the president and
added that the Congolese are optimistic that this agreement
will achieve peace and prosperity, and be an example of
the irreversible commitment to sustainable stability
in the region.
Tshisekedi used his words to thank President Trump for the role
played in this rapprochement between Kinshasa and Kigali,
and he also expressed gratitude --- to the African and
international leaders.. who contributed to this
defining moment.
In particular, he mentioned the heads of state of Qatar, Angola
and Kenya, who led the peace processes in Doha, Luanda
and Nairobi, respectively.
___________________________
They highlight the importance of the
agreement between the DRC and
Rwanda ---------- for the region
December 4th, 2:54pm
(Prensa Latina)
The president of Angola and incumbent of the African Union,
Joao Lourenco, today highlighted the importance of the
peace agreement between the Democratic Republic
of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda, for the Great
Lakes Region.
Lourenço, who was present at the ratification of that instrument
by the respective Congolese and Rwandan heads of state, Felix
Tshisekedi, and Paul Kagame, this Thursday in Washington, he
stressed that the confrontations end, will favour development.
“It is a conflict that has lasted more than three decades - a conflict
between brothers, between neighbouring countries and brothers”,
Lourenco remarked, and referred to the terrible consequences
that the war had on the populations of both countries and
their national economies.
“This is one of the richest regions in the world, rich in water
resources, arable land, forests, mineral resources that are
in the subsoil, but above all - rich for its people, with a
very great potential to develop the region, and that
can catapult the development of other regions of
the continent”, he added.
It meant that the world is going through an energy and food crisis
in which Africa, and in particular this Great Lakes region, has
the potential to contribute to its solution, not only for the
continent, but for the world.
However, none of this will be possible... if the conflict continues,
emphasized the Angolan president who expressed satisfaction
with the signing of the agreement, a fact that could put an
end to this situation.
He commented that Angola, as a mediator, like Kenya and
other countries, tried to do its part to end differences
and bring peace, but it was not possible at the time.
He thanked US President Donald Trump for having continued
the work that African nations had done and for having
achieved these results, with which “all of us are
going to win”, he highlighted.
The president urged Rwanda and the DRC - to do their part for the
successful implementation of this agreement, which is the most
difficult thing, he insisted, well, it implies the implementation in
a timely manner ------ of all that was agreed upon and signed.
_________________________________________
South Africa with a drop in electricity
generation and slight GDP growth
December 4th, 12:27pm
(Prensa Latina)
Electricity production and consumption in South Africa
decreased in October 2025, although the Government
highlighted the 0.5 percent growth of the Gross
Domestic Product in the third quarter.
According to data from Statistics South Africa, electricity
generation decreased 5.2 percent compared to the same
month of the previous year.
In seasonally adjusted terms, production fell 0.4 percent
compared to September, after falls of 1.3 and
1.1 percent in the previous two months.
The report specified that in the three-month period ending
in October, generation fell 2.5 percent compared to the
previous quarter, reflecting a contraction trend in
energy supply.
Meanwhile, electricity distribution, which measures consumption,
also showed declines. In October it fell 7.2 percent year-on-year,
while in the adjusted monthly comparison it fell 0.4 percent. In
the quarter ended in October, distribution fell 3.4 percent
compared to the previous one.
Despite this scenario --- the Executive celebrated the country's
economic performance. The Government Communication and
Information System (GCIS) noted that the 0.5% growth
in GDP constitutes the 3rd consecutive quarter of
expansion after the 0.9 percent registered in
the second quarter.
According to the entity, the results reflect the resilience of the
national economy and the impact of structural reforms aimed
at promoting inclusive and sustained development.
Among the best-performing sectors were commerce,
accommodation, and catering services, up one
percent.... driven by increased activity in
retail and wholesale sales, tourism
and food.
On the other hand, mining grew 2.3 percent, favoured by the
production of metals from the platinum group, manganese
and coal.
Increases were also reported in finance, real estate and
business services (0.3 percent), government services
(0.7 percent) and manufacturing (0.3 percent).
Likewise, agriculture, forestry and fishing advanced 1.1 percent,
with better results in crops, horticulture and animal products.
The GCIS acknowledged that challenges remain, but assured that
the economy is on a path of gradual recovery. “The Government
will continue to apply measures to support growth, investment
and job creation”, he indicated in a statement.
___________________________________________
President of Ethiopia says goodbye to the
ambassadors of Kenya and New Zealand
December 4th, 9:44am
(Prensa Latina)
The president of Ethiopia, Taye Atske Selassie, today bid
farewell to the outgoing ambassadors of Kenya, George
Morara Orina, and of New Zealand, Michael Upton,
whom he thanked for their efforts to strengthen
bilateral relations during their mandates.
Selassie highlighted his contributions to expanding
cooperation in development, trade, investment,
capacity building & people-to-people linkages,
as well as improving participation at both
the bilateral and multilateral levels.
He particularly praised the burgeoning multi-sector
partnership between Ethiopia and Kenya, noting
its strong upward trajectory in recent years.
The outgoing ambassadors, reflecting on their stay in
Addis Ababa, stated that their countries undertook
extensive efforts to elevate bilateral relations
to new heights.
They emphasized that cooperation gained momentum
in various areas and that their joint efforts produced
significant and tangible results.
Urina noted that Ethiopia and Kenya have long enjoyed
strong ties dating back to the era of founding father
Jomo Kenyatta.
He highlighted the growing collaboration between the
two nations in trade, infrastructure development,
people-to-people and security exchanges,
describing it as a model partnership
for the East African region.
For his part, Upton highlighted New Zealand's focus on
strengthening ties with Ethiopia in the areas of trade,
technology and capacity development ......during
his mandate.
____________________________________________
Ethiopia and IMF evaluated economic
reforms and collaboration
December 4th, 8:58am
(Prensa Latina)
Representatives of the Government of Ethiopia,
and the International Monetary Fund (IMF),
spoke today about the economic reforms
underway in the country & the support
of the international organization,
as well as perspectives... for
continuous collaboration.
The deputy managing director of the IMF, Nigel Clarke,
who arrived in this capital the day before, at the head
of a delegation for his first official visit, the Ethiopian
finance ministers, Ahmed Shide, from Planning and
Development, Fitsum Assefa, and the governor of
the National Bank, Eyob Tekalign, participated
in the meeting.
During discussions.... Shide outlined recent progress on local
economic reform initiatives and reiterated the government's
commitment to building on these achievements and
maintaining momentum.
He also highlighted Addis Ababa's interest in
maintaining solid collaboration with the IMF.
For his part, Clarke praised what he described as «remarkable
progress» .....under the country's Local Economic Reform
Programme, noting that several difficult modifications
already have visible results.
It recognized the high level of preparation, coordination and
determination necessary to simultaneously advance fiscal,
monetary and structural transformations, and encouraged
the African nation - to maintain its current trajectory.
The IMF deputy director is expected to continue meeting with
senior officials and visit important development projects
during his stay, the Ethiopian Finance Ministry said.
The official visit comes amid discussions over the country's fourth
review of the country's $3.4 billion Extended Credit Facility (ECF)
defined for four years.
The first ECF assessment, was completed in October 2024
and unlocked $340.7 million, while the second took place
in January 2025 releasing $248 million.
Last July, $262.3 million was released after the IMF's third
assessment highlighted improvements in inflation, export
performance and international reserves in Ethiopia.
However, Birr Metrics, Addis Ababa's main digital media
specialized in comprehensive coverage of business
and economic affairs --- published warnings from
specialists --- about the increase in the cost of
living since the introduction of the program
supported by the IMF.
Despite its short-term benefits, the strategy puts pressure
on households in all urban and rural areas, the report said.
Local businesses reported rising import costs, supply chain
constraints, limited access to affordable credit, changes
in the tax system --- and the general tax burden, the
latter constantly changing... due to the reform,
added the specialized digital site.
______________________________________________
Ethiopia highlights the role -- of
African development statistics
December 4th, 5:57am
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopian Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Truneh, underlined
the central role of statistics in shaping Africa's development
during an event that continues here today.
Tiruneh, speaking at the IXX Ordinary Meeting of the Committee
of Directors General of the National Statistical Offices of Africa
that meets at the headquarters of the African Union --- from
December 3 to 5, he described statistics as the compass
that guides continental growth aspirations and makes
them a reality.
He emphasized that evidence-based data must underpin
policy formulation and development programs.
Highlighting the reforms implemented in the country, he noted
that data analysis and collection --- are at the centre of the
10-Year Development Plan and economic modernization.
“We are modernizing the Ethiopian Statistics Service because
every policy we develop, every development program we
launch, every decision we make, must be on the solid
foundation of credible and timely data”, he added.
He called on African nations to strengthen the institutional
independence of their national offices responsible for the
sector, ensure sustainable financing and establish a
harmonized continental data ecosystem.
The meeting brings together the heads of national statistical
offices and international partners, focused on harmonizing
practices ------- and improving data-driven policymaking
across Africa.
_______________________________________________
Great Ethiopian Renaissance Dam,
a dream materialized ------ in 2025
by Nara Romero Rams
Chief correspondent in Ethiopia
December 4th, 12:12 am
(Prensa Latina)
The Great Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) was fully
realized in 2025, Africa's largest hydroelectric project
funded almost entirely by citizens inside and outside
the country.
On April 2, 2011, the first stone of the dam was laid, which will
generate more than five thousand megawatts of electricity.
Beyond guaranteeing access to this service, the GERD
is the central vision ---------- of industrialization and
regional connectivity.
For the African nation, this is a transformative step --- considering
that almost half of its rural population lacks access to electricity.
It also realizes Ethiopia's aspiration to harness its natural resources
in a sustainable and equitable manner, marking a change, not only
in infrastructure development, but also in the regional geopolitical
dynamics that, for many years, were governed by colonial-era
water treaties.
But not everything was rosy during the construction of the
ambitious project due to international pressure during the
damming phases --- and disagreements with Egypt and
Sudan, who alleged concerns about water resources.
In this regard, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed reiterated on multiple
occasions ------ that the dam is not a threat, but rather a shared
opportunity to describe it as a symbol of regional cooperation
and mutual benefit, with energy and development expected
to increase not only for Ethiopia, but for the entire region.
Proof of this vision is the export of electricity to Sudan, Kenya,
Djibouti & other neighbouring countries, promoting economic
interdependence in the Horn of Africa. The Ethiopian dam
strengthens cross-border energy connectivity, as well
as improving water management, and increasing
food security.
Ahmed stressed that the GERD has a design to regulate the
seasonal flow of rivers, mitigate destructive flooding and
ensure a more predictable supply of the precious liquid.
REGIONAL UNITY ....WITH WATER AND ELECTRICITY
To reinforce the criterion of not harming anyone, together with
S. Sudan, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and Burundi, Ethiopia
put the Nile River Basin Cooperation Framework
Agreement into force, last October.
This legal document for coastal countries constitutes testimony
to the commitment to use the tributary for the benefit of all
in an equitable manner.
Likewise, it corrects existing inequalities in its use and
recognizes the legal rights of all nations involved,
with sustainable law as its centre.
For his part, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,
Nebiat Getachew, stated that the energy generated by the
GERD will be for the countries of the region, which will
promote integration.
Getachew also specified - that the dam has a pan-African
dimension, referring to the African Union's Agenda 2063
based on the unification of Africans for joint prosperity
and development.
He stressed that Addis Ababa constantly advocates for a
win-win solution, assuring downstream countries that
the dam is not designed to reduce its flow.
“We have repeatedly assured our neighbours that this dam
was not built to cause damage or to reduce the flow of
water to the lower riparian countries, but it is a dam
that will solve the current energy shortage in
Ethiopia with a win-win approach”,
he stressed.
This approach, he asserted, will continue until the lower coastal
nations regain their sanity, fully understand this position and
can collaborate on new projects that will benefit everyone
involved in the Nile River basin.
The local Foreign Ministry spokesperson --------- recalled the
unprecedented diplomatic pressures - against the country,
noting how these growing challenges were unreasonable.
The GERD is not intended to harm any nation, but rather,
to serve as a beacon --------- of regional prosperity,
he stressed.
Once again, he said the hydroelectric project aims to address
urgent national energy needs, where approximately 65% of
the population .....lacks access to that service.
“And in this context, any initiative to address this critical problem
of renewable energy or electricity supply, our citizens should in
no case be interpreted as an attempt to harm or block others'
access to water”, he added. Ethiopia carried out several
negotiations and talks, despite diplomatic obstacles,
including opposition -- mainly from downstream
countries, he recalled. But Ethiopia remains
steadfast in its intention to resolve these
problems through negotiation and
dialogue, he concluded.
THE LOOK OF AFRICA
The Chairman of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali
Youssouf, praised the inauguration of GERD on September 9
as a generational milestone that will echo..... throughout
African history.
In the presence of African and Caribbean leaders and dignitaries,
Youssouf described the moment as an “historic day”, not only
for Ethiopia but also for the continent. He stressed that the
project's inception, decades-long construction and
completion -------- reflect unwavering dedication,
national sacrifice and visionary leadership.
Highlighting the transformative impact of the dam, he noted
that its more than five thousand megawatts of renewable
energy will illuminate homes, boost industries and
extend economic opportunities within Addis
Ababa and in all neighbouring states.
He specified that the GERD embodies the vision of the Program
for the Development of Infrastructure in Africa, the Agenda
2063 framework launched in 2012 ---- that guides the
continent's large-scale cross-border infrastructure
ambitions in energy, transportation, cross-border
water resources, among others.
Reiterating Ethiopia's assurances that it does not intend to cause
harm with the dam, he emphasized diplomacy as the way forward.
“I urge the three countries (Ethiopia, Egypt and South Sudan) to
resume talks on the basis of the 2015 Khartoum Agreement of
Principles”. The African Union is ready to facilitate dialogue,
he asserted.
He mentioned the joint management of the Senegal River by Dakar,
Mali and Mauritania as a model of successful trilateral cooperation.
For his part, the executive director of the East African
Law Society, David Sigano, declared that Ethiopia, is
fundamental to the transformation of the continent.
With the completion of the GERD, it gives African countries
additional motivation that demonstrates a spirit of
possibility by showing national unity and
self-reliance, he said.
“I am very proud of Ethiopia for building the Great Renaissance
Dam. We are proud of the fact that Ethiopia developed that
dam using its own resources”", he added.
In that sense, Sigano recalled that many projects on the continent
are developed or carried out ------- through loans and international
cooperation, hence, a self-financed initiative of such magnitude
as GERD shows that it is possible to do the same in Africa.
“Therefore, the fact that Ethiopia has been able to complete this
is something that gives us motivation that it is possible. That is
part of the transformation that the continent is seeking, even
in terms of clean energy”, he stressed.
He noted that Africa has made efforts to industrialize, and
energy is the greatest catalyst for that industrialization.
With the Great Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, it is expected to
facilitate regional energy integration through exports and
promote stability, cooperation and shared prosperity,
he noted.
In his opinion, the hydroelectric plant is widely celebrated
as a potential “game changer” for the continent's energy
and development landscape.
________________________________________________
Polisario Front warns about
impositions by Morocco
December 3rd, 5:23am
(Prensa Latina)
The Polisario Front warned today that Morocco, the
occupying power of Western Sahara, wants to
impose its agenda on Spain, contrary to
United Nations resolutions.
On the eve of the High Level Meeting of Spain and Morocco
this Thursday in Madrid, the representative of the Polisario
Front here, Abdulah Arabi, warned at a press conference
about the threat posed by the Rabat regime.
Arabi assured that along with his open desire to consolidate
his occupation in Western Sahara, Morocco's next purpose
will be the Canary Islands, if Spain is not able to stop it.
The Polisario delegate in Spain argued that the Sahrawis have
«sufficient experience to be able to reasonably warn Spain
that, if it does not put a stop to Morocco's expansionist
pretensions, “the next objective will be the
Canary Islands».
Spain, which withdrew from Western Sahara more than 50 years
ago and later allowed the Moroccan occupation, according to
Arabi, the Madrid» Tripartite Agreements signed on
November 14, 1975 still grant it the management
of the airspace of the desert enclave.
«Morocco continues to set the times and course of relations,
which should be considered to what extent they are
strategic for Spain», the Polisario delegate
remarked, when referring to the change
in Madrid's policy based on a decision
by the President of the Government,
Pedro Sánchez, four years ago.
Arabi recalled, in another vein, that last year ----- «the EU Court
recognized the separate and distinct status of the territory of
Western Sahara with respect to Morocco and the absence of
Moroccan sovereignty over the territory, taking into account
that the person who holds the right to self-determination
over the territory ....is the Sahrawi people».
______________________________________________
Ethiopian stock market ----- a
window to global integration
December 2nd, 10:59am
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopia's capital market will play a fundamental role
in strengthening integration into the global financial
system and improving investor confidence, finance
Minister Ahmed Shide said today.
When opening a summit on the subject, Shide stated
that - a well-regulated and transparent financial
platform is essential --- to align Addis Ababa
with international standards, and expand
its access to global investment.
“This offers foreign investors clarity, consistency and confidence
through government securities, corporate bonds, stocks,
infrastructure instruments, international capital gains
and structured access to productive sectors of our
economy”, he said.
In this sense, he stressed the importance of strong coordination
between institutions that play different roles.... in building a
credible, resilient and transparent financial ecosystem.
He pointed out that the government's responsibility, is to establish
a fiscal and financial architecture that guides capital towards its
highest value and empowers citizens to participate in the
economic growth of the nation.
“In doing so, we are not simply financing infrastructure, businesses
or public services, we are financing the future of Ethiopia:
a stable, dynamic, inclusive and sustainable future”,
he asserted.
The Ethiopian minister reported that infrastructure
development remains a critical priority, where
capital markets can be transformative.
“Capital markets allow us to convert infrastructure into an
investable asset class, through green bonds, municipal
bonds, income bonds ..and infrastructure investment
funds, mobilizing both domestic and foreign capital
for long-term development”, he concluded.
For his part, the governor of the National Bank of Ethiopia, Eyob
Tekalign, defined access to capital as a “powerful engine” of
economic growth and the expansion of the private sector.
“When companies, large and small, secure long-term, affordable
financing, they innovate, scale... and create the jobs that drive
national prosperity”, he said.
Tekalign stated that, with the launch and operationalization
of the capital market, the country now has a new platform
to mobilize and allocate those values efficiently to the
productive sectors.
That decision, he added, represents a strategic transition away
from dependence on bank-based financing toward a more
diversified landscape designed to attract long-term
investments, stimulate the development of the
private sector and support the country's
economic modernization efforts.
__________________________________________
Insecurity in northern Nigeria
triggers resignation of
defence minister
December 2nd, 10:34am
(Prensa Latina)
The wave of kidnappings of minors appears as the probable
trigger for the resignation of the Nigerian Defense Minister,
Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, accepted last night and
let go today.
Unlike other occasions, this time the perpetrators of the mass
abductions of minors are not the Islamist groups based in
the northeast of the country, but bands of armed men
described in the official reports, as bandits.
General Mohammed Badaru Abubakar presented his resignation
to President Bola Tinubu, announcing in a brief statement, that
refrains from providing details of the military chief's decision.
However, just last week the Nigerian president declared a state
of national security emergency, in what had all the signs of the
demand for more results in the fight against the gangs of
armed men that devastate the north of the country.
The day before, the military command announced
the unharmed rescue of seven minors who were
kidnapped days before a Christian service.
Groups of armed men without any political affiliation have
proliferated in the last two years in the north of this vast
country, the leading oil producer in sub-Saharan Africa.
_____________________________________________
International Trade Union
Confederation praises
reforms in Ethiopia
December 2nd, 10:30am
(Prensa Latina)
The International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) today
praised the political, economic and social reforms in
Ethiopia, as well as the commitment to workers'
rights, during its 37th General Assembly, held
for the first time on African soil.
The general secretary of the ITUC, Luc Triangle, stated
that the convening of the conclave in this capital had
a «symbolic and political significance», highlighting
the country's decade of economic expansion,
poverty reduction and improvements in
health and education.
Triangle considered that the recent wage increase for local
public sector workers had ----- «sent a powerful signal»
internationally, about the government's confidence
in social dialogue .....and its commitment to
social justice.
He recognized the reforms implemented in terms of labour
rights and the strengthening of their cooperation. «For
the global trade union movement, it is encouraging
to witness this», he said.
In his view, the African nation's progress provides hope
that private sector workers will also benefit from
better wages and protection.
He reaffirmed the ITUC's commitment to supporting Ethiopia in
promoting human rights, democratic values and decent work.
For his part, the vice president of the ruling Prosperity Party,
Adem Farah, reiterated Ethiopia's readiness for labour
rights, social dialogue and democratic reforms.
Farah recalled that the political and economic transformation
agenda begun in 2018 is based on inclusive governance,
the expansion of civic freedoms, strengthening labour
institutions and greater investment in young people
and women.
He underlined..... the role of the Tripartite Advisory Council,
established with the Ethiopian Trade Union Confederation,
& regional governments in promoting stable relationships
between employers and employees ------ and stronger
labour standards.
He emphasized that unions are essential partners
in Ethiopia's reform process, not obstacles.
«Workers' organizations are fundamental contributors
to building a just society, a dynamic economy and
a peaceful nation», he said. In that sense -- he
urged strengthening tripartite collaboration
based on trust, transparency and
shared responsibility.
The general assembly brings together union leaders
from around the world and will deliberate on
inequality, global insecurity, climate
challenges and the future of
decent work ---- in an era
of technological and
economic change.
__________________________
The okapi, from the DRC,
is at the highest level of
international protection
December 2nd, 10:05am
(Prensa Latina)
The okapi (Okapia johnstoni), endemic to the Democratic
Republic of the Congo, is today --- at the highest level of
international protection that prohibits all international
commercial exchange of the species, its parts or
its derivatives.
The day before, the members of the Convention on
International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild
Fauna and Flora, better known as CITES, decided
to include it in the so-called Appendix I --- which
regulates these activities, which complements
the full protection it enjoys in DRC legislation.
The Congolese Institute for Nature Conservation (ICCN)
and the Society for Wildlife Conservation (WCS)
welcomed this action, Actualité said.
They considered the issue as an important step to
address the species' declining range, shrinking
populations, and growing threats --------- from
poaching, habitat loss and illegal trade !
Okapi is classified as Endangered on the Red List of the
International Union for Conservation of Nature, and it
faces poaching and habitat degradation in the
northeastern DRC.
Currently the main populations survive in the Okapi Wildlife
Reserve, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, and
the Lomami National Park; it is also present in Maiko
National Park, other protected areas, and
several community forests.
____________________________________________
Ethiopia and the Czech Republic
are evaluating strengthening
trade ties
December 2nd, 10:05am
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopia's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Hadera Abera
today ---- received a business delegation from the Czech
Republic, to strengthen economic and commercial
ties between both countries.
Abera, when speaking with the delegation led by the Czech
ambassador here, Miroslav Kosek, highlighted the long
history of diplomatic relations between Addis Ababa
and Prague and the continuous advancement of
cooperation in various fields.
He recalled the exhibition last August, of the fossil remains
of Lucy and Selam -- two of the most famous hominids of
the African nation exhibited in the National Museum of
the European nation, describing it as a reflection of
the strong ties between both countries.
He added that the visit of the business delegation further
demonstrates the growing bilateral commitment and
collaboration, in addition to occurring at an
important time... in which Ethiopia is
advancing its macroeconomic
reform agenda.
He highlighted the large domestic market, one of
the largest in Africa, and its access to broader
commercial spaces .......and regional
economic communities.
The African diplomat also mentioned, the continuing
local focus on clean energy development, referring
to the recent inauguration of the Great Ethiopian
Renaissance Dam..... as part of the national
renewable sources strategy.
He stated that all these conditions make Ethiopia a
favourable destination for foreign companies
seeking new investment opportunities.
Likewise ---- he described the national efforts to develop
environmentally conscious smart cities, including the
initiatives to transition from fossil fuel-based, to
clean energy transportation systems.
He assured the delegation that the Government of Ethiopia
is ready to provide the necessary support to ensure a
smooth and productive collaboration.
For his part, Kosek indicated that the business delegation
will meet with various Ethiopian institutions and
companies during their stay.
He thanked the local government for its support, and
reaffirmed his country's commitment to continue
strengthening bilateral cooperation.
Czech businessmen expressed interest in contributing to the
development of Ethiopian infrastructure, particularly in the
transport sector, and praised clean energy initiatives.
Both sides agreed to continue working
together... in areas of mutual interest.
_________________________________________________
Dominican archaeologist affirms
that Cleopatra's tomb could be
found in 2026
December 2nd, 8:43am
(Prensa Latina)
Dominican archaeologist Kathleen Martínez revealed today
that at the beginning of 2026, the largest archaeological
discovery of the century, the tomb of Cleopatra, could
occur, an investigation she has been working on..
for two decades.
In an interview with El Nuevo Diario, Martínez stated that
she will continue his exploration both by sea and on
land, relying on specialized equipment.
She explained that new experts have joined her project,
including the renowned oceanographer Robert Ballard,
famous for finding the Titanic.
The archaeologist recalled --- that she did not imagine
discovering a tunnel under the modern Alexandria-
Marsamatru highway, which extends towards
Libya and connects directly with the
Mediterranean Sea.
This discovery forced the project to be divided
into two phases: sea and land, she explained.
She also managed to gain support from the Egyptian Army
---- presenting the project to senior military commanders,
who approved assistance in conducting underground
searches. She considers this validation, one of her
most important achievements.
The uncovered tunnel is exceptional. It was not detected
by radar because it is 25 metres deep, in a saline area,
she said.
The connection to the Taposiris Magna temple confirms
significant human activity - and suggests that a part of
the temple remains underwater, she told newspapers.
The archaeologist stated that, thanks to pieces discovered
by her team, she has participated in international
exhibitions, including the Cairo Museum, the
National Geographic and the Library of
Alexandria, where 350 Dominican
pieces were exhibited.
She is currently working on creating a permanent exhibition
at the Greco-Roman Museum and regretted - that the
Dominican Republic ......does not have a solid
archaeological tradition.
She announced that she will collaborate on a project to
search for the tomb of Chief Enriquillo. This initiative
will be joined by specialists who worked with her
in Egypt to carry out excavations and offer the
first formal training -------- in conservation,
restoration and bone anthropology,
she said.
She assured that the site where the search will be carried out
is currently abandoned, and that the objective is to convert
it into a true archaeological space.
She announced that this Wednesday, December 3rd,
the documentary “Cleopatra's Last Secret” - made
with authorization from the National Geographic,
will be presented in the Dominican Republic.
The audiovisual screening in the DR will be at the National
Theatre, with support from the Dominican Institute
of Telecommunications. The documentary
includes the first images of structures
under the lake, never seen in 2,000
years, she explained.
_____________________________________
The Niger authorities - want to sell uranium
