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Scientific era brand research 
complex in Ethiopia & Africa
April 4th, 11:25am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Ethiopia today has a cutting-edge research complex, located at 
the Armauer Hansen Research Institute, the centre that marks 
the beginning of a new scientific era for the country and the 
African continent.
 
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed inaugurated the complex 
that he says, goes beyond physical infrastructure, describing
it as a «strategic leap» to position Addis Ababa as a leading 
centre in scientific research, health security and techno-
logical advances. It has 40 fully equipped laboratories, 
advanced genomics and bioinformatics platforms 
---- tools that will allow local scientists to 
participate in cutting-edge research 
on a global scale.
 
A key aspect of the facility, is its bioequivalence centre, 
which will ensure the quality, safety and effectiveness 
of domestically produced medicines.
 
This development... is expected to significantly reduce 
Ethiopia's dependence on imported pharmaceuticals, 
while strengthening local production capacity.
 
“By linking science with policymaking, the complex will support 
the improvement of healthcare ----- it will strengthen emergency 
preparedness and strengthen resilience against future threats 
to public health”, Ahmed said.. on X social network account.
 
He further stressed - that the initiative aligns with the broader 
ambition to achieve greater independence in critical sectors 
through national innovation and sustainable development.
 
The new Armauer Hansen Research Institute complex is more 
than a research centre; It is a bold symbol of Ethiopia's 
commitment to a healthier, more self-sufficient future, 
and a significant contribution to African science, 
he concluded.
 

__________________________________________________________



3rd mass grave in Uvira, DRC, brings 
the number of bodies to over 200
April 3rd, 1:06pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The governor of the province of South Kivu, in the Democratic 
Republic of Congo (DRC), Jean-Jacques Purusi, reported the 
discovery of a third mass grave in Uvira, which today 
brings the number of bodies found to 210.
 
The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior, Security, 
Decentralization and Customary Affairs, Jacquemain Shabani, 
reported to the Council of Ministers at the end of February 
about two multiple burials found in the neighbourhoods 
of Kavinvira and Kilomoni, with a total of 151 bodies.
 
However, the day before, Governor Purusi, during a press 
conference with the Minister of Communication and 
Media, Patrick Muyaya, indicated that they also 
discovered a mass grave in Kimanga.
 
The authority thanked the sending of forensic experts, as 
well as inspectors and agents of the judicial police, who 
participate in the investigations ----- to determine the
responsibility for the massacres perpetrated and 
identify the bodies of the victims.
 
 
___________________________________


Agreements in the justice sector mark 
a milestone in Ethiopia-Algeria ties
April 1st, 11:49am
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
Ethiopia and Algeria today signed a set of agreements on justice 
and legal cooperation and marked a milestone in strengthening 
diplomatic ties and improving institutional collaboration.
 
The agreement, signed by the Ethiopian head of the sector, Hana 
Arayasilassie, and her Algerian counterpart, Lotfi Boudjemaa, 
derived from intense consultations between technical 
teams from both countries, held last year.
 
Arayasilassie explained that the new legal cooperation is 
focused on critical areas, such as civil law, criminal 
affairs and official prisoner exchanges.
 
He specified that, in addition to the primary agreement, Addis 
Ababa and Algiers signed a memorandum of understanding 
aimed at deepening synergy at the institutional level, and 
facilitating the continuous exchange of legal knowledge.
 
He emphasized that this partnership serves as a vital tool to 
strengthen bilateral ties and build collective resistance 
against modern security threats.
 
He specifically mentioned that the framework will provide a solid 
foundation for joint efforts to combat cybercrime, transnational 
organized crime and terrorism.
 
He reaffirmed Ethiopia's firm readiness to work in close 
coordination with Algeria to uphold regional security 
and legal integrity.
 
Boudjemaa, for his part, stressed that the agreement is the direct 
result - of fruitful high-level discussions previously held between 
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and the Algerian president
Abdelmadjid Tebboune on the modernization of justice systems.
 
He highlighted - that the text is a cornerstone for capacity-building
 and the exchange of experiences between judicial agents of both 
countries. He underlined its central role in combating corruption, 
cross-border crime and strengthening the rule of law.
 
He stated that this new chapter of judicial cooperation elevates 
long-standing relations between both countries to a higher 
strategic level, ensuring that both parties benefit from 
a more integrated and efficient sector.
 
 
__________________________________
 
 
 
Former Algerian president
 Liamine Zéroual has died
April 1st, 10:48am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Algerian Presidency announced today the death at 
the age of 85 ......of former president Liamine Zeroual.
 
The statement, released through social networks and 
taken up by the media, indicates... that the death 
occurred last Saturday “due to a long illness”, 
whose nature is not precise.
 
Zeroual served as president between 1994 and 1999 
as interim and was elected president in elections 
held that year.
 
That five years was characterized by the violent clash 
between the government and the Islamic Salvation 
Front, whose followers resorted to violent ways 
to take over the Presidency and caused 
enormous economic and social 
damage to this country.
 
 
_________________________________
 
 
 
Health, a strategic 
economic asset 
for Africa
April 1st, 9:05am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Health is not a cost, it is a strategic economic asset, the 
president of the African Union (AU) Commission 
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, stated here today, 
speaking at a high-level event.
 
Africa must invest in its health systems to protect sovereignty, 
drive growth and build resilience, Youssouf said at the Forum 
on Sustainable Health Financing, held on the sidelines of the 
58th Regular Session of the Economic Commission for Africa 
and the Conference of African Ministers of Finance, 
Planning and Economic Development.
 
He specified that the current model ------ marked by low public 
financing and high out-of-pocket payments, is unsustainable, 
pushing millions into poverty. With the increase in debt and 
fiscal pressure, “the time for reform is now”, he asserted.
 
He stressed that linking budget reform, innovative 
financing, digital governance and regional 
integration.. can open a new paradigm.
 
He considered the African Centres for Disease Control and 
Prevention and the AU African Continental Free Trade 
Area to be fundamental to this transformation, 
because --- they strengthen preparedness, 
reduce costs, promote pharmaceutical 
sovereignty and access to vaccines.
 
The Chairman of the African Union Commission stated that 
“today's forum must take action - a coalition of countries 
ready to move faster and concrete commitments, with 
limited and responsible deadlines”. Health --- must 
become a pillar of Africa's sovereignty, 
he concluded.
 
The high-level forum is one of the six events that meet in parallel 
to the ministerial meeting convened by the United Nations 
Economic Commission for Africa, scheduled from 
March 28 to April 3 in the Moroccan city 
of Tangier.
 
The agenda includes: the Continental Youth Symposium on 
“African youth at the forefront of technologies, innovation, 
sovereignty and employment in the digital age”, “Improve 
Africa's trade flows .....by optimizing port infrastructure 
and operations”.
 
Meetings focused on “Leveraging data and technology to 
strengthen domestic resource mobilization and debt 
governance in Africa” and the Ministerial Policy 
Dialogue entitled “Financial Inclusion and 
Women's Economics for Sustainable 
Development in Africa: Data 
Leverage and Innovation”.
 
The “Innovation Finance: The Role of African Multilateral 
Financial Institutions in Accelerating Africa's Economic 
Technology Transformation” will highlight --- new 
financing models... to drive local innovation.
 
 
_________________________________________
 
 
 
Euphoria in the DRC due to the team's 
qualification -------- for the World Cup
April 1st, 6:14am
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The Ministry of Employment and Labour of the Democratic 
Republic of the Congo (DRC) declared today as a paid 
holiday for the qualification of the national soccer 
team to the 2026 World Cup, after beating 
Jamaica 1-0.
 
The country is experiencing the euphoria of triumph with 
celebrations in the streets until dawn, and in Kinshasa 
with thousands of people --- who left their homes to 
celebrate, despite the rain..... well, the national 
team had not been able to reach the world 
championship ...for 52 years.
 
President Félix Tshisekedi and first lady Denise Nyakeru 
Tshisekedi celebrated the victory of the DRC Leopards 
in the final of the intercontinental play-offs, held in 
Guadalajara, Mexico, indicated the Congolese 
Press Agency.
 
The president congratulated the players on the return of the 
national team to the World Cup after more than half a 
century and for fulfilling the dream of an entire 
generation ....which helps to strengthen 
national unity and cohesion, the 
source indicated.
 
 
_________________________________________



Panama beats South Africa 
in a soccer friendly
March 31st, 5:24pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Panamanian soccer team today played a well-organized 
and competitive game to beat South Africa 2-1 in a friendly
 match, played at the DHL Stadium in Capetown.
 
The team led by Thomas Christiansen opened the scoring with 
a goal from José Córdoba in the 58th minute, but the Africans 
equalized with a strong long-distance shot from Mbekezeli 
Mbokazi (64).
 
Already in the final stretch, Jiovany Ramos (77) 
appeared to seal victory in a set piece action.
 
Panama resisted the pressure at the end of the match 
and secured a positive result as a visitor to end their 
tour of African territory with a draw and a victory.
 
Japan surprised England 1-0 at Wembley.


_________________________________________


Kinshasa ready for
third 
Angola-DRC
economic forum
March 31st, 4:31pm
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
Kinshasa is ready to hold the third Angola-Democratic Republic 
of the Congo (DRC) economic forum, for which a delegation 
from the neighbouring country arrived in this capital today.
 
The Angolan delegation to the event, scheduled from tomorrow 
until Thursday under the motto “Subregional Integration and 
Development of Cross-Border Trade”, is headed by the 
Minister of State for Economic Coordination, 
José de Lima Massano.
 
The group is made up of the holders of the Industry and 
Commerce, and Fisheries and Marine Resources 
portfolios; as well as the secretaries of State 
responsible for areas... such as land 
transportation, oil and gas, and 
finances, plus other chappies.
 
The event aims to be a strategic platform for
dialogue, 
paths to strengthen commercial
relations between both nations.
 
According to government spokesman and DRC Communication 
Minister Patrick Muyaya, the meeting must favour the 
coordination of economic policies that fully exploit 
the potential ...of the geographical proximity and
complementary strengths of the two countries.
 
According to the planned programme, the forum will discuss
 issues such as bilateral trade facilitation, investment 
promotion and the functioning of cross-border 
economic corridors, among which the 
Lobito Corridor stands out.
 
DRC and Angola work together - to strengthen their ties in 
economic matters, as demonstrated by the organization 
of the event and the continuity of the work of the 
Angola-DRC Interministerial Commission.
 
In mid-March, both parties held a virtual preparatory meeting for 
the next meeting of that cooperation mechanism, which will be 
focused on the organization and consolidation of bilateral 
economic exchange.
 
Among other issues... delegations from the two countries 
addressed the proposed Economic Agreement between 
governments, an instrument aimed at establishing a 
broader framework for cooperation, addressing 
areas such as trade in goods and services, 
investment, transportation, logistics, 
industrial cooperation...... and the
 development of border regions.
 
The project also includes institutional mechanisms designed 
to strengthen coordination between the authorities of 
both countries, and create better conditions for 
economic exchange.
 
 
________________________________________________________
 
 

Angola & Brazil recognize potential 
for mutually beneficial relations
March 31st, 3:18pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Brazil, Mauro Vieira, and of 
Angola, Téte António, acknowledged today during a working 
meeting in Luanda, the potential for ..cooperative relations. 
 
The foreign ministers agreed to promote initiatives that contribute
to the economic development of the two nations, valuing the role 
of the private sector and financial institutions, in consolidating 
these alliances.
 
According to the Angolan Foreign Ministry,  they carried out an 
exhaustive analysis of the state of relations, with special 
emphasis on strengthening cooperation.
 
“The parties highlighted the importance of continuous dialogue 
and strategic coordination on matters of common interest, 
including the promotion ------- of peace, security and 
sustainable development”, the statement noted.
 
The ties between the two countries have been close since the 
declaration of Angolan independence in 1975, and in recent 
years they have been strengthened with the visit of the 
heads of state in both directions... and the signing of 
agreements in different, vague, unspecified areas.
 
This Tuesday, in the Brazilian capital, the Ministers of 
Culture of the two nations.... signed agreements to 
strengthen institutional ties in the vague sector, 
expanding collaboration between its cultural
institutions and promoting new stuff.
 
Last week, the Ministry of Energy and Water of Angola
and the Ministry of Mines and Energy of Brazil signed
a Memorandum 
of Understanding..... on Technical
Cooperation in the Electricity Sector, covering
the scientific, technological, regulatory,
administrative & commercial fields.
 
 
__________________________________________
 
 
 
Ethiopia intensifies measures 
due to fuel shortages
March 31st, 12:25pm.
(Prensa Latina) 
 
A total of 658 people, including government officials, were 
arrested in Ethiopia ---- for illegal fuel trade and hoarding, 
amid the shortages caused by the crisis in West Asia, 
a man said today.
 
Ethiopian Minister of Trade and Regional Integration Kasahun
Gofe, told of the seizure of more than 720,000 litres of fuel 
- since measures for state control were implemented on 
March 23, due to losses in the national supply chain.
 
Gofe stressed that the arrests are part of supervising the 
supply and distribution of fuel throughout the country.
 
He warned that any marketing outside the designated framework 
will be treated as illegal and subject to strict sanctions, as the
authorities continue with their efforts to contain illicit sales 
and stabilize the market.
 
The measures come amid a sharp decline in fuel imports, due to
the ongoing conflict in West Asia, which began on February 28th.. 
with the aggression of the US and Israel against Iran.. which 
interrupted long-standing supplies and raised world prices.
 
The Ethiopian minister declared that the operation, carried
out in 6 regional states and two city administrations,
resulted in the 
confiscation of 250,221 litres of
gasoline ....and 198,432 litres 
of diesel,
generating more than 48.6 million
birr (over
 $313,701) in income
for the state treasury.
 
 
_________________________________________



Digital governance focused discussions 
of the African Committee of Experts
March 31st, 6:32am
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
Strengthening digital governance - and positioning Africa as 
a strategic actor in the global digital economy focused the 
discussions of the Committee of Experts, prior to the 58th 
Ministerial Conference scheduled in Morocco, an official 
source reported today.
 
The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) --- in a statement sent 
to Prensa Latina, specified that the meeting held from March 28 
to 30 in the city of Tangier laid the technical foundations for 
the ministerial debates on the advance of the economic 
transformation of the continent through innovation, 
data and cutting-edge technologies.
 
The 58th Conference of African Ministers of Finance, Planning and
Economic Development, the main forum for dialogue & exchange 
of opinions with central bank governors .....on issues related to 
the economic transformation of the continent, will take place 
on April 2 and 3.
 
In her closing remarks, ECA Executive Undersecretary Hanan 
Morsy - praised the participants for the depth and quality of 
their approaches, pointing out that their contributions 
could be a basis for ministerial decision-making.
 
“Its rigorous analysis and well-informed recommendations form 
the technical basis that will guide our ministers and define 
priorities at global, regional and national levels”, 
she said.
 
Morsy stated that the decisions made will determine whether 
Africa simply adapts to global change or actively shapes 
its own future
 
The Committee met in a context of rapid technological change, 
global economic dynamics and growing competition around 
data governance and artificial intelligence, the 
statement stressed.
 
Experts highlighted that... while these trends present risks, they 
also offer unprecedented opportunities for Africa to accelerate 
its structural transformation.
 
Throughout the session, they discussed how innovation, 
digital technologies, and better data governance.. can 
drive productivity, diversification, & inclusive growth.
 
They stressed the need for Africa to stop being a mere consumer 
of global technologies and become a key player in shaping the 
rules that govern the digital economy.
 
Furthermore, they reviewed the progress of the work program 
of the Economic Commission for Africa, and made 
recommendations.. aimed at improving support 
to Member States - particularly in the areas 
of data governance, digital infrastructure 
and evidence-based policy formulation.
 
 
________________________________________
 
 
 
Ethiopia invites Chinese businessmen 
to invest in transportation
March 31st, 5:20am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Ethiopia today invited businessmen from China to make 
strategic investments in transportation and logistics, 
emphasizing the opportunities offered ------- by 
sustainable and renewable energy projects.
 
This was expressed by the head of the local State portfolio, 
Alemu Sime, during a meeting with leaders of the Ethiopia
-China Friendship and Cooperation Committee, in which 
he highlighted a long history of bilateral collaboration 
and reaffirmed the African country's commitment to 
facilitating foreign investment in key areas.
 
Sime assured that investors will receive all the necessary 
support to participate in areas such as logistics, public 
transport & the adoption of new energy technologies.
 
Likewise, he noted Ethiopia's recent decision -- to ban the 
import of gasoline vehicles as a significant step towards 
promoting renewable energy and advancing the 
transition to cleaner solutions.
 
«The country offers ample investment potential, especially 
in railways, electric vehicle charging infrastructure and 
the conversion of gasoline to electric or natural gas 
vehicles», he emphasized.
 
For its part, the leaders of the Ethiopia-China Friendship and 
Cooperation Committee expressed interest in establishing 
an electric car assembly plant, & exploring opportunities 
in the hydrogen media sector and related areas.
 
The meeting highlighted Addis Ababa's growing interest in 
sustainable transport solutions and its strategy to attract 
international investment in infrastructure.
 


_____________________________________________




Somali federal troops - occupy key 
points in the southwestern state
March 30th, 10:47am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Somalia's authorities announced today that federal government 
troops occupied the main towns around Baidoa, capital of the 
Bay administrative region, in the rebellious state of S. West.
 
According to an official military statement, the troops of the Federal 
Government of Somalia took over these strategic points, after 
intense fighting against the militias of the regional 
president, Abdiaziz Laftagareen.
 
Likewise, it was learned that the armed clashes caused thousands of 
local inhabitants to flee to Baidoa, where official sources indicate 
that over 430 thousand people are displaced from their homes, 
which complicates the humanitarian situation in that city.
 
Political observers highlight this Monday that these confrontations 
occur due to Laftagareen's disagreements, and with the Central 
Government just announcing the expiration of his term as 
regional president and rejecting any attempt to prolong 
his authority.
 
For his part, the local leader opposes the constitutional amendments 
promoted by federal president Hasan Sheikh Mohamud, which seek 
to modify the balance of power between the centre and local 
administrations, add the sources.
 
In the midst of this situation, the federalists are also carrying out 
actions against the Islamist faction Al-Shabaab in the vicinity of 
Baidoa, which further complicates the fragile situation in this 
country.. in the Horn of Africa.
 
 
_______________________________________
 
 

The number of Malian refugees 
in Mauritania ------- increases
March 30th, 9:04am
 (Prensa Latina)
 
International organizations indicated that more than 13 thousand 
Malians moved to the southeast of Mauritania during the last six 
months to escape clashes between the military and Islamists. 
 
According to the United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR) - these 
displaced people - who now number around 300,000 - are mainly 
concentrated in Hodh Ech Chargi region, S. East of Mauritania.
 
The largest refugee camp is Mbera, about 60 kilometres from the 
border, where nearly 120 thousand people are concentrated,
 
Due to the escalation of clashes between Islamist factions operating 
in Mali and that country's security forces -- tensions have increased.
 
One of these Islamist groups is the so-called Support Group for Islam
 and Muslims (Jnim), which attacks villages, & imposes the payment 
of a religious tax and the use of the black veil on women.
 
During recent months, the Khnim, linked to Al Qaeda, attacks fuel 
caravans traveling towards Bamako, capital of Mali, to try to 
paralyze the country's economy, therefore, military 
operations against them have increased.
 
Mali also faces the coalition of Tuareg groups, known as Berbers,
determined to achieve the separation of the northern region 
and create an independent state there.
 
A nation of the Sahel, Mali lives mired in a deep political crisis, 
which has increased after successive coups d'état that 
occurred in August 2020 and May 2021.
 
 
_______________________________________
 
 
 
Every 30 seconds, a dead 
baby is born ---- in Africa
March 30th, 6:54am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Every 30 seconds, a baby is stillborn somewhere in Africa and, with 
almost a million fetal deaths a year, the continent supplies over
half of the world's burden, an official source warned today.
 
The director general of the African Centres for Disease Control and 
Prevention (Africa CDC), Jean Kaseya, regretted that behind every 
loss there is a mother, a family and a community whose pain 
often goes unnoticed. A tragedy that, in most cases, is 
avoidable, he said.
 
Kaseya acknowledged that stillbirths remain one of the most invisible 
problems in African health systems, often underestimated, under-
reported and overlooked in political decisions, planning 
and financing.
 
This invisibility, he stressed, not only constitutes a moral failure --- but 
also a risk to health security. Fetal death is one of the most sensitive 
indicators - of the quality, equity and resilience of the sector.
 
It reveals deficiencies in primary care, weaknesses in referral 
and emergency preparedness, & failures in surveillance and 
data mechanisms ---- essential for learning, accountability 
and a rapid response, he added.
 
In this sense, he declared that the report on the situation of 
stillbirth in Africa, recently presented, represents a 
fundamental step ---- to break this silence.
 
Driven by African leadership and developed through extensive 
continental collaboration (governments, UN agencies, civil 
society, communities, among others), it is the first 
balance sheet --- at the continental level --- 
dedicated exclusively to the topic.
 
The text brings together evidence, country experiences and the 
voices of affected parents to illustrate both the magnitude of 
the problem ....and the opportunities for action.
 
It further shows that most stillbirths are preventable through evidence-
based investments in robust primary health care, high-quality prenatal 
and delivery services, and, effective emergency obstetric and 
neonatal care --- as well as robust data systems.
 
These investments not only reduce stillbirth and maternal and neonatal 
mortality, but also strengthen the resilience of the sector, they promote 
universal health coverage and improve the sector's preparedness for 
future pandemics and emergencies.
 
The mandate of the Africa CDC, within the framework of the African 
Health Security and Sovereignty Agenda, to strengthen continent-
led resilience and reduce dependence on external systems, 
makes the fight against the invisibility of stillbirth, a 
fundamental institutional priority, rather than 
a secondary concern.
 
As Africa advances its vision of Agenda 2063, preventing stillbirth 
is both a moral imperative and a strategic investment in health 
security, sovereignty and the collective future.
 
 
_________________________________________



 Senegal defeated Peru 
in a soccer friendly
March 28th, 2:06pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Senegal defeated Peru two goals to zero today
 in a friendly soccer match played at the 
Stade de France.
 
The Africans went into the break with an advantage 
thanks to Nicolas Jackson's score in the 41st 
minute, after an assist from Ibrahim Mbaye.
 
Ismaila Sarr doubled the lead in the 54th minute, to 
ruin the debut of Brazilian coach Mano Menezes 
at the helm of the albirroja.
 
In other international friendlies, Sudan 
beat Saudi Arabia 2-1, and the Faroe 
Islands beat San Marino 2-1.
 
For its part, also this Saturday Ivory Coast beat 
South Korea 4-0 and Madagascar beat
 Kyrgyzstan 5-2.
 
 
___________________________________
 
 
 
Burundian Kwizera did a double
 in the Prague half marathon
March 28th, 12:27pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Burundian long-distance runner Rodrigue Kwizera won the 
Prague half marathon today for the second consecutive 
time, and he also shattered the record of the event 
and that of his country.
 
Kwizera won this Saturday with a time of 58:15 minutes, 
improving the 58:24 set by Kenyan Sabastian Sawe
 in 2024.
 
The 26-year-old runner reached the finish line alone ahead 
of Kenyans Samwel Chebolei and Owen Korir, whom he 
led by 32 and 42 seconds, respectively.
 
In last year's edition, Kwizera won the race in a sprint with 
58:54 minutes, and with his second place in Valencia 
he established himself as one of the best runners 
in the distance.
 
Kenyan Caroline Gitonga won the women's category, with 
a personal best of one hour, six minutes and 15 seconds, 
better than her compatriots Jesca Chelangat and 
Cynthia Chepkwony.
 
 
___________________________________
 
 
 
Investment forum in Ethiopia 
marked a milestone with the
 signing of agreements
March 28th, 11:37am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Investing in Ethiopia Forum marked an important 
milestone with the signing of agreements for more 
than 13 billion dollars in key sectors, a topic that 
marked the agenda for the week - ending today.
 
The high-level meeting held on March 26 and 27 under the 
theme “Ethiopia is ready for investment”, was organized 
by the Investment Commission (EIC), in collaboration 
with the Ministry of Finance and international 
development partners with the ambitious 
plan to raise more than $2.4 million in 
new investment commitments.
 
The aforementioned figure - exceeded the initial objective. 
The manufacturing, agriculture, energy and construction 
sectors.. are the beneficiaries of the agreements signed 
in the fourth edition of the forum, according to the EIC.
 
It's not just about numbers, the source said, but about 
creating jobs, driving innovation, strengthening 
currencies and forging long-term alliances.
 
He stressed that, taking advantage of the momentum of 
the 2025 edition, the year in which projects worth 
1.6 billion dollars are already in operation, the 
2026 results send a clear message.
 
“Ethiopia is open, prepared and rising ----- as a leading 
investment destination. From dialogue to negotiating 
agreements, the Forum has once again proven to be
 a powerful platform ---- to shape the country's 
economic future”, the Commission said.
 
The event program had parallel sessions, including the topic 
“Promoting the growth of agriculture and agribusiness”, 
in which Ethiopia's growing investment opportunities 
in those sectors, driven by ongoing reforms, were 
highlighted ---- improved productivity and a more 
conducive environment -- for non-state profits.
 
Discussions focused on strengthening value chains, 
expanding processing capacity ...and promoting 
export potential - emphasizing the importance 
of financing, infrastructure and public-private 
alliances... to develop sustainable growth.
 
On the other hand, “Invest in Ethiopia's Special Economic 
Zones: Export to the world”, occupied another space for 
discussions, in which the more than 29 local ecological 
industrial parks stood out ------- under international 
standards and with ready-to-use infrastructure.
 
Likewise, they have solid air and rail connectivity 
that drives sustainable export-oriented growth.
 
Thanks to comprehensive one-stop services that support 
investors, global partners were encouraged to take 
advantage of these ready opportunities... to 
operate and invest in the African nation.
 
 
________________________________________


More than nine thousand homes 
connected to the energy grid 
in the DRC
March 27th, 11:11am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
More than nine thousand homes today benefit from connection 
to the electrical grid in the Democratic Republic of the Congo 
after the inauguration of a distribution circuit connected to 
the Kakobola hydroelectric plant.
 
As reported by the DRC Presidency, President Félix Tshisekedi 
was in charge of the official launch ceremony of the network, 
which supplies the city of Kikwit and will bring energy to the
 provinces of Kwilu, Kwango and Maï-Ndombe......... in a 
progressive and controlled manner.
 
Around six million inhabitants will be able to have access 
to electricity gradually, in accordance with the technical 
requirements for the start-up & stabilization of the plant.
 
The Kakobola hydroelectric plant, the first and only dam built 
in Kwilu province since colonial times, is a civil engineering 
infrastructure project that has a generation capacity of 
10.5 megawatts, from 3 units of 3.5 megawatts each.
 
Located 70 kilometres southeast of the city of Kikwit, and 790 
kilometres east of the city of Kinshasa, the enclave will allow
a transformation of life in the region... not only improving the 
comfort of homes, but also revitalizing the local economy 
and generating employment opportunities.
 
Likewise... it must have a positive impact on basic 
social services and the reduction of energy costs.
 
 
_______________________________________________
 
 
 
More than 2,500 human rights 
violations in the DRC
 in 5 months
March 27th, 7:07am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The United Nations Deputy High Commissioner for Human 
Rights, Nada Al-Nashif, reports that from October 2025 to 
February 2026, 2,560 human rights violations were
 recorded in the DRC.
 
According to a report published today by Actualité.CD, since 
the last report was carried out in September of last year, 
monitoring reveals a deterioration in the security and 
human rights situation in the east of the country, 
where the civilian population is the target of 
attacks --- by various armed groups.
 
Human rights violations recorded in the five-month period 
starting in October affected 6,760 victims, the vast 
majority in the provinces of North Kivu, South 
Kivu, Ituri and Maniema.
 
The real figure may be higher, the high commissioner warned, 
since on the ground confrontations and attacks by armed 
groups are frequent and civilians are the ones who 
suffer the consequences.
 
Al-Nashif affirmed that the Congolese people are trapped in 
a complex network of crises, which manifests itself in the 
proliferation of armed groups, foreign interference, 
ethnic tensions and the fragility of governance, 
all in a context of fierce competition -------
 for natural resources.
 
 
_______________________________________________
 
 
 
Withdrawal of rebels from Lubero 
areas in the DRC confirmed
March 27th, 6:46am
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
Government sources from the Democratic Republic of the 
Congo (DRC) today confirmed the withdrawal of fighters 
rom the Congo River Alliance-March 23 Movement 
(AFC/M23) of several occupied villages in the 
territory of Lubero, North Kivu province.
 
According to Radio Okapi --- the rebel movement was probably 
accompanied by Rwandan army troops and occurred on the 
night of March 24, to regroup in the towns of Alimbongo, 
Kirumba and Kanyabayonga.
 
The governor of North Kivu province..... Evariste Kakule Somo, 
confirmed to the media, this displacement of Rwandan troops 
and the AFC/M23, that maintained control over these villages 
south and east of Lubero-centre......... for more than a year.
 
It was also observed that in the Kamandi Lake area there were 
logistical movements, including the evacuation of military 
equipment by ship to Vitshumbi, in the neighbouring 
territory of Rutshuru.
 
The local population views these actions..... with uncertainty, 
which is why Kakule Somo called for calm and said that this 
movement is part of the implementation of the peace 
agreements, in particular those derived from the 
Washington process.
 
On March 18th, representatives of the DRC and Rwanda - 
met in the US and agreed on concrete measures for the
implementation of the Washington Peace Agreement.
 
According to a joint statement issued after the meeting, both 
parties coordinated a series of actions aimed at reducing 
tensions and improving the situation on the ground, 
with the commitment --- to respect sovereignty 
and territorial integrity.
 
The dossier discussed -- included the withdrawal of Rwandan 
forces and the lifting of defensive measures in certain areas 
of eastern DRC ------ as well as the strengthening and 
achievement of defined deadlines to neutralize 
the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of 
Rwanda (FDLR).
 
However, we will have to wait.. to know if specifically the 
movements that occurred in the province of North Kivu 
correspond to an implementation of the agreements.
 
 
__________________________________________________


 
Unicef warns of worsening 
crisis in child protection
March 26th, 2:27pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The regional director of the United Nations Children's Fund
(UNICEF) for West and Central Africa, Gilles Fagninou,
warned of the worsening child protection crisis in 
the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
 
After a five-day visit to the country... Fagninou called for 
intensified mobilization in response to an increasingly 
alarming humanitarian situation, with around seven 
million displaced by the conflict, of which 2.5 
million are children, Radio Okapi 
published today.
 
He mentioned in a statement that in 2024, nearly 4,000
serious violations of children's rights were recorded, 
and children represent over 40% of the victims of 
sexual violence; in addition to the impact of the 
conflict on civil infrastructure, including 
schools, health centres and other 
essential services.
 
These actions deprive thousands of children of a safe 
environment and access to their fundamental rights, 
he stressed.
 
The regional director of Unicef also referred to the 
growing threats against humanitarian workers in 
eastern DRC, who are increasingly targeted.
 
He gave as an example that in 2025 over 626 incidents 
against humanitarian personnel were recorded 
throughout the country, which not only 
affects them as individuals, but also
------- directly endangers access to 
the vital help required --- by the
children and families who
depend on this help.
 
“Every time access is blocked ---- food, water and medicine 
do not reach those who need them most”, he emphasized 
and recalled that all parties to the conflict must respect 
international humanitarian law, in particular the 
protection of the civilian population and 
humanitarian access.
 
 
__________________________________
 
 
 
Monusco advocated reopening
 airports in eastern DRC
March 26th, 1:45pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The special representative of the secretary general and 
acting head of the United Nations Stabilization Mission 
in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (Monusco), 
Vivian van de Perre, advocated today --- for the 
reopening of Goma and Bukavu airports.
 
Before the UN Security Council, meeting this Thursday in New 
York, US, Van de Perre insisted on the need for this entity to 
exert its influence to reopen the airports of Goma, in the 
province of North Kivu, and Kavumu, in Bukavu, 
south Kivu Province.
 
As reported by Radio Okapi, the interim head of Monusco 
stressed that both terminals are essential for the 
resumption of humanitarian flights in an area 
where there are countless needs and 
people in vulnerable situations.
 
The airports have been closed --- since the occupation of the 
region by the rebellion of the Congo River Alliance-March 23 
Movement (ACF-M23), supported by Rwanda, and despite 
the progress from a political point of view, with the 
peace agreement between Rwanda and the DRC, 
and the talks with the insurgents, still ------
an 
unresolved issue.
 
Van Perre also referred to the situation on the ground, where 
despite the commitments assumed by the parties in conflict 
and the current ceasefire between the Government and 
the AFC/M23 since February 18 -- fighting and the use 
of sophisticated weapons... continue.
 
The special representative of the UN Secretary General in the 
DRC condemned the use of drones outside Tshopo province, 
as well as attacks against humanitarian workers, with ten 
incidents recorded since November 2025, including the 
one on March 11, which claimed the life of a Unicef 
staff member.
 
 
_________________________________________
 
 
 
Spain and Senegal raise bilateral rank 
to Strategic Association
March 26th, 12:53pm
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
Spain and Senegal today, elevated their bilateral relationship 
to a Strategic Association, after signing several agreements 
led by the highest authorities of both countries.
 
The President of the Government of Spain, Pedro Sánchez, 
highlighted --- that Senegal is the first country in sub-
Saharan Africa with which his country adopts 
this type of political framework.
 
When receiving the president of Senegal, Bassirou Diomaye 
Faye, at the Moncloa Palace, Sánchez highlighted the 
elevation of ties to a Strategic Association, via
the adoption of a Joint Declaration.
 
The agreements signed this Thursday will allow for deepening
 cooperation between the two countries in matters of trade, 
fishing, tourism and cultural issues such as language
learning or the protection of underwater heritage.
 
Sánchez and Faye.. addressed the good results
of the circular migration program now in place
started in 2024, from which ------ 560 workers 
in the agricultural sector benefited in 2025.
 
 
_____________________________________________
 
 
 
Geopolitical turbulence casts a shadow 
over the WTO meeting in Cameroon
March 26th, 12:53pm
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The ministerial meeting of the World Trade Organization (WTO), 
opened its debates today in this city, the capital of Cameroon, 
marked by dissent - generated by the increasing geopolitical 
turbulence underway.
 
Among the most acute issues are the paralysis of an agreement 
on the reform of the dispute settlement system & in particular 
the entry into force of the next chapter of the multilateral 
trading system, in accordance with the details shared 
with the press by Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, director 
general of the WTO.
 
At the meeting they plan to discuss, although without it
appearing on the agenda..... the US-Israeli military 
aggression against the Islamic Republic of Iran, 
whose final consequences remain to be seen 
and the imposition left and right of taxes by 
the government of the president of the US, 
Donald Trump ---- against any countries 
''reluctant'' to join his foreign policy.
 
 
____________________________________
 
 

President of Ethiopia in Malabo 
for transcontinental summit
March 26th, 12:51pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of Ethiopia, Taye Atske-Selassie, arrived in 
Equatorial Guinea to participate in the XI Summit of 
Heads of State and Government of the 
Organization of African, Caribbean 
and Pacific States (OASP).
 
Selassie was received at the Malabo International Airport by 
the Equatoguinean Prime Minister, Manuel Osa Nsue Nsua, 
and other senior local government officials, the 
president's Office reported.
 
The summit, scheduled for March 27-29, brings together 
leaders -- from Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific, 
along with representatives of the United Nations, 
the African Union and the EU, underscoring 
OASP's growing geopolitical importance.
 
Under the motto «A transformed and renewed OEAP at 
the service of inclusive, sustainable and trust-based 
multilateralism», the meeting also commemorates 
the 50th anniversary of the bloc, established in 
1975 through the Georgetown Agreement.
 
Under the leadership of Secretary-General Moussa Saleh 
Batraki, who took office in March 2025, the 79-member 
organization is preparing for a major strategic shift, 
with the aim of transforming structural 
vulnerabilities into greater 
global influence.
 
The Organization remains one of the largest transcontinental 
groupings in the Global South, bringing together nations
from three regions.
 
Since its founding in Georgetown, Guyana, the bloc has evolved
from a trade-focused alliance - to a key political and economic 
platform ------ that now promotes development, solidarity and 
global equity.
 
 
_____________________________________________________



Equatorial Guinea....... defeats 
Kyrgyzstan in soccer friendly
March 25th, 3:40pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Equatorial Guinea soccer team defeated Kyrgyzstan 
1-0 today in a friendly soccer match, played at the 
Mardan Stadium in this city, and achieved its 
second consecutive victory.
 
A penalty goal from Josete Miranda in the 45th minute 
gave the victory to the Africans, who knew how to be 
more organized and effective, in a match with few 
offensive actions.
 
In another friendly match of the day, Kazakhstan 
led Namibia 2-0 at the Astana Arena with goals 
from Yan Vorogovskiy (m. 13) and 
Alibek Kasym (79).
 
 
________________________________________
 
 
 
They exalt Cuba's role - in the 
liberation of Southern Africa
March 25th, 10:37am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The commemoration in Zimbabwe for the Liberation Day 
of Southern Africa today exalted Cuba's role in ending 
apartheid, with the assertion of the Historical Leader 
of the Revolution, Fidel Castro, that continental 
history must be written before and after.... 
the Battle of Cuito Cuanavale.
 
Southern African Development Community (SADC) nations 
celebrated the 38th Anniversary of the victory over 
apartheid at the Battle of Cuito Cuanavale, in the 
territory of Angola, with words of praise for the 
contribution of the Caribbean nation, in the 
presence of its Ambassador, Suselys 
Pérez Mesa.
 
Directors of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Trade 
of Zimbabwe, the Angolan Lieutenant General Remigio do
Santos and the Ambassador of that country Balthazar 
Diego Cristovao agreed in describing Cuba's role in 
the independence of the nations of this region 
as decisive for the planet.
 
In a speech to those present, the senior Angolan officer 
asserted that the success in that battle on March 23, 
1988 was the turning point for the liberation of
 the continent.
 
Cuban internationalist troops and their fighter pilots played 
a key role, stated Lieutenant General do Santos, also 
explaining, the training of the Antillean military to 
national combatants and the Organization of 
the African People of Southwest 
Namibia (Swapo).
 
Previously, the heads of diplomatic missions of member 
states planted trees in the independent square of the 
African Liberation Museum, which, in the opinion of 
the Regional Director of the Foreign Ministry, 
Mqabuko Spencer Dube -- are symbols of 
healing and resilience, as a reminder 
that, from wounds we have had, is
cultivated strength - and unity.
 
The member nations of the SADC, by decision of their Heads 
of State and Government, established in 2018... to begin
celebrating March 23 as Southern African Liberation 
Day ---- starting the following year.
 
 
_________________________________
 
 
 
Twin births recorded -- among
 mountain gorillas in the DRC
March 25th, 6:22am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The workers of the Virunga National Park, in the Democratic 
Republic of the Congo (DRC), celebrate the birth of twins 
within the family of mountain gorillas that live in the 
area, an endangered species.
 
This is a rare event, as scientists point out that less than one 
percent of pregnancies in these animals result in twins, the 
AfricaNews portal reported today.
 
The newborns are males and are in good health, indicated the 
media outlet, which stated that the DRC registered a previous 
case of double birth in 2020, also in the Virunga reserve.
 
After noticing the birth, the park rangers implemented 
surveillance and protection measures to increase 
their chances of survival, in an area.... also 
subjected to the onslaught of war.
 
Virunga National Park, inaugurated in 1925 and registered as 
a World Heritage Site since 1979, is considered the oldest 
nature reserve in Africa and since last year a significant 
portion of its territory has been under the control of 
the rebels of the Congo River Alliance Movement 
23 of march.
 
With an area of 790 thousand hectares, it is home to an 
extraordinary diversity of habitats... from swamps and 
steppes to the snow fields of Rwenzori, at over 5,000
metres above sea level, and from lava plains.... to 
savannahs on the slopes of volcanoes.
 
About a thousand mountain gorillas live in the wild in the park, 
around 20 thousand hippos live in its rivers and Siberian birds 
spend the winter there.
 
 
__________________________________


Eritrea seeks to eradicate 
tuberculosis ---- by 2030
March 24th, 1:21pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Eritrea today commemorated World Tuberculosis Day 
with a call to all institutions and partners to join 
forces in order to eradicate this disease 
by 2030.
 
The facilities of the Orotta National Reference Hospital 
were the centre of activities nationwide under the 
motto «Yes! We can end tuberculosis».
 
The director of Communicable Disease Control of the Eritrean 
Ministry of Health, Araya Berhane, stated that, in the African 
nation, as in the rest of the world, tuberculosis is one of 
the most painful and deadly pathologies.
 
Berhane specified that, in the last five years, 10 thousand 
positive cases were detected in Eritrea, who were cured 
through appropriate treatment. Likewise, he pointed 
out that the fact that 18 percent of the patients 
were children under 15 years of age 
requires special attention.
 
For her part, the Representative of the World Health 
Organization (WHO) in Eritrea, Mary Stephen, she 
highlighted major local advances in eradicating 
the disease with a consistent reporting rate 
of 87% and 100% treatment coverage.
 
Stephen mentioned that the indicator of treatment success
is 90 percent for all forms of the infection. She added that 
mortality decreased from 8.5 ....to 3.4 per 100 thousand 
inhabitants in 2024.
 
Meanwhile, the head of Communication and Training of the 
Ministry of Health, Amanuel Girmatsion, asserted that 
these results are due to the conscious participation 
of citizens, added to --------- the commitment of 
professionals in the sector.
 
In this regard, Girmatsion announced that they will carry out 
continuous advocacy activities --- until the desired goal of 
eliminating tuberculosis by 2030 in Eritrea is achieved.
 
World Tuberculosis Day is celebrated this March 24 with a 
call for prevention and the commitment of governments 
to increase their investments in pursuit of solutions 
that minimize the impact of this lethal ailment.
 
According to the WHO, despite scientific advances and
 the availability of a vaccine, it is still one of the most
 persistent and deadly infectious diseases on 
the planet.
 
It is estimated that a quarter of the world's population is 
infected by the tuberculosis bacillus, but has not yet 
become ill ..nor can they transmit the infection.
 
 
________________________________________
 
 
 
One of the ADF leaders in the 
DRC Army operation dies
March 24th, 12:48pm
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo 
(DRC) today reported the death of one of the leaders of the 
Allied Democratic Forces (ADF for its acronym in English), 
during an operation in the province of Ituri.
 
Difenda Kasibandi - one of the leaders of the Islamic State-
affiliated group, was killed while a joint military operation 
between the DRC and Ugandan armies was underway in
 Asangwa, near the Lindi River, on the border between
 the territories of Lubero (North Kibu) and 
Mambasa (Ituri).
 
According to the statement, along with Kasibandi were 
four other ADF fighters who also perished, while the 
armed forces managed to free three hostages.
 
Meanwhile -- the military prosecutor's office of the Butembo 
garrison, in North Kivu, issued two arrest warrants against 
Moussa Seka Baluku, leader of the ADF, and several of his 
collaborators, for the deadly attacks against civilians in
 the territory of Lubero.
 
According to Radio Okapi, Seka Baluku is considered the 
author of the attacks that occurred on January 1 in the 
towns of Katanga, Maendeleo and Kilonge, in the 
Bapere sector, where at least 20 civilians were 
killed and significant material damage 
was caused.
 
ADF commanders Abou Akasi, Chalamanda, Docta Kabogo, 
Difenda Kabibande and Seka Umaru, were also charged, 
and are accused of the ambushes and deadly attacks 
committed between January 7 and 24, 2026 in 
Mahusa, Musenge .....and along the 
Njiapanda-Manguredjipa axis.
 
 
________________________________________
 
 
 
Tuberculosis - is the third 
cause of death in Angola
March 24th, 12:03pm
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
Tuberculosis is today the third cause of mortality in Angola, 
according to the Ministry of Health, despite reducing the 
mortality rate from 3.4 to 1.8 deaths per 100 thousand 
inhabitants in 2025.
 
Last year, the country registered 85,793 cases of the disease 
in all its forms, with the 25 to 34 year old group being the 
most affected, with 25% of the total patients reported.
 
The Ministry of Health considered tuberculosis a serious 
public health problem, even though data shows a 4%
reduction in cases ....compared to 2024.
 
Regarding World Tuberculosis Day being celebrated this 
Tuesday, the ministry reaffirmed its commitment 
to intensify its prevention, diagnosis and 
treatment actions.
 
Likewise, he called on the population to join the fight against 
the disease, which has negative repercussions on public 
health and the economy ------- affecting families, 
communities and national development.
 
 
_______________________________________
 
 
 
Spanish Foreign Minister 
will travel to Algeria
March 24th, 9:51am
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
After more than three years without exchanges of visits, the 
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Spain, José Manuel Albares, 
will travel to Algeria this Thursday, official sources 
announced today.
 
In 2022, Algerian President Abdelmayid Tebune called his 
ambassador in Madrid for consultations, underlining his 
rejection of Pedro Sánchez's letter to Mohamed VI 
supporting the Moroccan autonomy plan as «the 
most solid basis, credible and realistic» ....to 
resolve the conflict in Western Sahara.
 
Albares, who will also travel from Algiers to Oran on Friday, 
commented in a press conference after the Council of 
Ministers that «Algeria is a neighbouring country, a 
strategic partner, a friend with Spain, with whom 
we share strong common interests».
 
There was interest in settling the diplomatic conflict with 
a trip scheduled for February 2024 to the Arab country, 
but he was suspended due to agenda problems of the 
Algerian Government and then.. the situation cooled 
down again.
 
In any case, Albares held four meetings with his Algerian 
counterpart, Ahmed Attaf, from 2025 until the most 
recent on March 8 in Madrid, on the margins of a 
meeting, precisely.... about Western Sahara.
 
Clearly, there is interest on both sides in 
organizing a bilateral summit, probably 
this year.
 
 
_____________________________________



DRC prepares 2nd population census
Forty two years........ after the first
March 23rd, 2:50pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), 
Félix Tshisekedi, today chaired the sessions of the donor 
round table for the financing of the second General 
Census of Population and Housing.
 
42 years after the first census (1984), the Ministry of Planning 
and Coordination of Development Assistance organized the 
event, which included financing commitments for more 
than 200 million US dollars.
 
The DRC president, during the meeting, insisted on 
the fundamental importance - of carrying out this 
investigation - given the demographic growth of 
the country, whose population increased from 
about 30 million ---- to almost 112.8 million 
inhabitants today.
 
“Continuing to plan without complete, reliable and up-
to-date demographic data would be tantamount to 
governing without visibility and would therefore 
weaken the State's ability to accurately meet 
population expectations”, the head of 
state emphasized.
 
He added that a country that does not know itself cannot 
be fully governed, hence he stressed: that carrying out 
the census... is not only rectifying an historical delay, 
but opening a new chapter in national governance.
 
He specified that the objective is “to ensure that, over the 
coming decades, important public decisions in the DRC 
are based more on knowledge than estimation; in 
rigour rather than approximation; in territorial 
equity rather than in statistical blindness”.
 
Tshisekedi expressed his deep gratitude to all technical and
 financial partners, as well as the United Nations system, 
and especially to Côte d'Ivoire, which agreed to support 
the process.
 
The second General Population and Housing Census of the 
DRC should serve as a pillar for the main reforms initiated 
in 2019, he mentioned, and listed free basic education, 
universal health coverage, free maternal care and 
the Local Development Program..... for the 
145 Territories.
 

[RR adds - 42 years of ''
civil wars''
generously provided by the C.I.A.]


________________________________________________
 
 

President of Angola
highlighted Cuba's
 participation in...
Cuito Cuanavale
March 23rd, 2:16pm
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of Angola, Joao Lourenco, today highlighted 
the participation of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of 
Cuba in the Battle of Cuito Cuanavale, whose victory 
was achieved on March 23, 1988.
 
In a message regarding the 38th anniversary of that victory, 
which marked the end of the apartheid regime and the
 consolidation of peace in southern Africa ------ the 
president also highlighted the firm leadership 
of the Cuban Commander in Chief, Fidel 
Castro Ruz.
 
“On this day, we pay deep tribute - to the heroes and heroines 
who, with supreme sacrifice - contributed to the conquest of 
freedom, the dignity and self-determination - of the peoples 
of southern Africa”, said the Angolan head of state in the 
note, published on the Presidency's social networks.
 
Lourenço congratulated the Angolan Armed Forces on behalf 
of the people, and urged them to continue keeping alive, 
with a “deep sense of patriotism and reverence”, the 
legacy of March 23, consecrated as Southern 
African Liberation Day.
 
He said that this anniversary symbolizes the courage, bravery, 
resistance and determination of the Angolan people and the 
people of the African continent in the fight against colonial 
oppression, apartheid and all forms of domination.
 
He noted.... that the legacy of its “heroic 
combatants” remains alive, as a source
of inspiration 
for the present and
future generations.
 
He reaffirmed the commitment to the preservation of peace, 
unity and sovereignty of the States of the southern region 
of the continent, in addition to considering the date as a 
moment of reflection on current challenges.
 
In this sense, he mentioned the need to strengthen democratic
 institutions, promote social justice and consolidate political 
stability, for “the construction of a future ---- based on 
freedom, equality, and a collective progress”.
 
 
_________________________________________________
 
 

They define: the order of parties and
 candidates on the ballot in Ethiopia
March 23rd, 12:06pm
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) held the draw 
today... to determine the order on the ballot of the names and 
symbols of the political parties and independent candidates
registered for the Seventh General Elections.
 
So far, according to the NEBE, more than 18 million voters are 
registered to participate in the elections scheduled for June 
1, a process that takes place both digitally and manually.
 
Board President Melatwork Hailu stated that the draw 
represents a key step in preparations for the general 
election, while they promote other activities... to 
guarantee a proper development of the vote.
 
Hailu stressed close coordination with civil society 
organizations, political parties, media, security 
institutions & other stakeholders throughout
 the process.
 
He confirmed that the registration of candidates nominated 
by the political parties was completed and the lists of 
candidates were officially published in their 
respective constituencies.
 
He indicated --- that the electoral material 
was distributed to 46,757 voting centres 
throughout the country.
 
Official figures released by the Electoral Board specify that 
there are 47 registered political parties, with a total of 
10,934 candidates. Of these, 2,098 are competing for 
seats in the House of People's Representatives 
(Parliament), while 8,736 are running for 
positions in regional councils.
 
73 candidates are registered
to compete as independents.
 
 
______________________________
 
 
Switzerland is interested in 
strengthening cooperation 
with Angola
March 23rd, 11:57am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The vice president and minister of Foreign Affairs of the 
Swiss Confederation, Ignazio Cassis, today expressed 
his country's interest in strengthening economic 
cooperation with Angola ....and increasing 
private investment.
 
In statements to the press after a meeting with the Angolan 
president, Joao Lourenco, the Swiss foreign minister 
commented that the meeting focused on these 
aspects and others of interest, at the same 
time, he praised the president's role as 
leader of the African Union and in 
resolving conflicts in Africa.
 
He classified bilateral relations as very good, particularly in 
the economic field, within which he mentioned that around 
30 Swiss companies operate in the country, with whom 
he met during his stay in Luanda to evaluate aspects 
that could strengthen their activity.
 
In the political and diplomatic area ---- Cassis highlighted 
cooperation in peace and diplomacy, and Angola's role 
in promoting stability in the Great Lakes region, 
especially in mediating conflicts between 
the Democratic Republic of the Congo 
and Rwanda.
 
This Monday the Swiss also held a working meeting with the 
Angolan Foreign Minister, Tete Antonio, where both 
reviewed the current state of bilateral relations, 
identified new areas of cooperation and 
exchanged opinions on matters of 
common interest.
 
At the meeting, Antonio advocated strengthening 
political dialogue at the highest level, as well as
creating conditions for greater collaboration 
between economic agents ...and the 
development of the public and 
the private sectors.... of 
both countries.
 
He noted that, for more effective cooperation, deepening 
business relationships with a view to establishing 
mutually beneficial alliances - is a priority.
 
In this sense, he referred to the structural reforms that Angola
 has made to attract foreign direct investment, including the 
granting of tax incentives in strategic areas of the country, 
and he reiterated that Swiss businessmen are welcome 
to invest and actively participate in the economic 
diversification process.
 
According to the Angolan Foreign Ministry.. during the bilateral 
talks special attention was paid to strengthening cooperation 
on food security, in the area of critical minerals and in the 
Lobito Corridor.
 
The Angolan Foreign Minister ---- also took the opportunity to
report that Angola presented the candidacy of Ambassador 
Josefa Leonel Correia Sacko, for the position of Director
General of the United Nations Organization food and 
Agriculture (FAO), for the period 2027-2031, 
whose elections will be held in 2027.
 
 
______________________________________
 
 
 
Ethiopia implements measures 
to address fuel shortages
March 23rd, 6:19am
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The Ethiopian Fuel and Energy Authority today announced 
new measures to address fuel shortages and curb illicit 
trade, due to significant losses throughout the 
country's supply chain.
 
The move responds to findings...... that billions of birr are lost 
annually to fuel theft. Last week, the Authority introduced a 
technology-backed regulatory system aimed at improving
 supervision and ensuring more controlled distribution.
 
According to the Director General of that Body, Destaw 
Mekuanent, the problem covers the entire supply 
chain, starting from the Djibouti corridor and 
continuing through transport routes.. to 
retail stations.
 
Mekuanent revealed that fuel is diverted from trucks during 
transit, while losses at the retail level can reach up to 10%
through practices such as “air sales”, where customers 
are charged for undispensed gasoline or oil.
 
He stressed that the new system will be based on criteria 
that include ----- the number of stations operated, storage 
capacity, and the dispensing infrastructure.
 
As part of the reforms, the Authorityis  installing sensors on 
fuel trucks to detect tampering during transport. At retail 
stations, it implements a digital monitoring system to 
track pump activity and dispensed volumes...... in
 real time.
 
In the past six months, authorities seized 1.2 million litres of 
illegally transported fuel and administrative sanctions were 
imposed on 352 retail stations and 256 tankers. Despite 
these measures, officials acknowledge that ...losses 
remain substantial, contributing to shortages in 
the country.
 
The Body stated that the new regulatory system is expected 
to improve transparency and reduce leaks, although its 
effectiveness will depend on its application and 
compliance ....across the sector.
 
Last week, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed --- called on 
fuel distributors, stations and consumers to use petroleum 
products responsibly, due to crisis-related disruptions in 
the Middle East --- due to the US and Israeli aggression 
against Iran.
 
Ahmed, on his social media account X, stated that “until the 
problem is resolved and we return to a normal oil supply 
system, we must use oil economically and prioritize 
basic needs”.
 
He called on distributors and service stations to act 
responsibly and ensure that available supplies go
towards essential services and priority needs.
 
 
____________________________________________________


Foreign Minister of Mexico meets 
with counterparts at the 
Celac-Africa forum
March 20th, 3:30pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Mexican Foreign Minister Juan Ramón de la Fuente met today 
with his counterparts from Colombia, Cuba, Ghana and Haiti 
to strengthen ties, within the framework of the Celac-Africa 
High Level Forum, based in Bogotá.
 
On its social network account X, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
specified that the head of Colombia, Rosa Villavicencio, had 
thanked De la Fuente for Mexico's presence at the event 
and the security results achieved, always with full 
respect for both sovereignties.
 
The two officials agreed to continue strengthening 
the agenda on immigration issues.
 
During the meeting with the Cuban Minister of Foreign Affairs, 
Bruno Rodríguez, the Mexican Foreign Minister --- reiterated 
that humanitarian aid and the close bilateral relationship
----- will continue, as instructed by President 
Claudia Sheinbaum.
 
On the other hand, in the meeting with the chancellor of the 
new transitional government of Haiti, Raina Forbin, the 
secretary reaffirmed development cooperation at the 
bilateral level and support in multilateral forums for
 the consolidation of the democratic process.
 
Finally, De la Fuente spoke with the head of Ghana, Samuel
Okudzeto, whom he thanked for the upcoming opening of 
the Embassy of that country in Mexico to strengthen
 the bi-regional relationship.
 
The Celac (Community of Latin American and Caribbean 
States)-Africa High Level Forum met last Wednesday, in 
Bogotá, Colombia, to delegations from both continents 
with the aim of establishing or strengthening alliances 
in the field of cooperation.
 
Also this Friday, the Meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs 
of Celac will take place, as a prelude to the 10th Summit 
of Heads of State and Government of the regional bloc, 
which will meet tomorrow in the capital of the South 
American country.

 
_______________________________
 
 
Nicaragua congratulates Namibia
on the 
36th anniversary --
of its independence
March 20th, 3:05pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Nicaragua today transmitted a message of greetings and 
congratulations to the president of Namibia, Netumbo 
Nandi-Ndaitwah, on the occasion of the 36th 
anniversary of the independence of 
that African nation, which is 
commemorated tomorrow.
 
On behalf of the People and Government of Reconciliation and 
National Unity, and on their own behalf, the co-presidents of 
Nicaragua, Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo, expressed 
their warmest congratulations to the brother Namibian 
people and Government .......on this significant 
historical date.
 
The message highlights the deep respect.. for the long and 
heroic struggle of the people of Namibia for their freedom, 
sovereignty and self-determination -------- after decades of 
resistance against colonialism and an apartheid regime.
 
Likewise, it highlights the role of the Southwest African 
People's Organization (SWAPO) and the sacrifice of 
generations of patriots ------ factors that led to 
independence and the emergence of a 
free and sovereign nation.
 
The co-chairs noted that Namibia constitutes a historic victory 
for people fighting for freedom, social justice, dignity and the 
right to decide their own destiny, in addition to representing 
a symbol of hope ---- for the nations of the Global South.
 
When celebrating this anniversary, Nicaragua reiterated its 
fraternity with the Namibian people and its willingness to 
continue strengthening the ties of friendship, solidarity 
and cooperation between both countries, inspired by
 the ideals of freedom, peace and development.
 
“From our Nicaragua, always blessed and always free, receive 
our fraternal hug, along with the affection and esteem of all 
Nicaraguans for the brother people of Namibia”,
the message concluded.
 
 
____________________________________
 
 
Chadian government investigates
 air attack .....from Sudan?
March 20th, 12:47pm
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The Chadian authorities today reserve their reaction to the 
air attack that days ago caused its citizens 20 deaths and 
several injuries, according to the official count.
 
The drone bombing hit a group of attendees at a funeral
in the cemetery in the city of Tine (west), on the border 
with Sudan.
 
So far we have not determined who is behind the attack 
coming from Sudan, official government spokesman 
Gassim Cherif told reporters.
 
The first reaction of Chadian President, Mahamat Deby 
Itno was to decree the closure of the common border, 
investigate the incident and order the Army to 
respond to any aggression coming from 
either of the two contenders in the 
Sudanese civil war.
 
The official Chadian caution is based on the existence of two 
possible perpetrators, the Sudanese Army, loyal to General 
Abdel Fattah al Burhan, president of the Sovereign 
Transitional Council (CST, government) and the 
Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia led by 
General Mohamed Handan Dagalo...
funded by outside agencies.
 
Since April 2023... both forces have been involved in what 
has been called the forgotten war in Sudan, cause of the 
devastation of that northeast African country, and the 
largest refugee crisis in history: with 14 million 
displaced people.
 
So far neither the CST nor the RSF have 
admitted responsibility for the incident.
 

[Rhondda Records adds: 
neither.... has the C.I.A.]
 
 
________________________________________


DRC and Rwanda agreed on measures 
to finalize the Peace Agreement
March 19th, 6:49am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Representatives of the Democratic Republic of the Congo 
(DRC) and Rwanda met in the United States and agreed 
on concrete measures for the implementation of the 
Washington Peace Agreement, the local press 
highlighted today.
 
According to a joint statement issued after the meeting 
held on March 17 and 18 in the US capital, both parties 
coordinated a series of actions aimed at reducing 
tensions and improving the situation on the 
ground, with the commitment to 
respect sovereignty and 
territorial integrity.
 
According to Actualité.CD, the dossier discussed includes the 
withdrawal of Rwandan forces and the lifting of defensive 
measures in certain areas of eastern DRC, as well as the 
strengthening and achievement of defined deadlines to 
neutralize the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of 
Rwanda (FDLR).
 
Another valued aspect is the protection 
of the civilian population.
 
Kinshasa and Kigali reached a peace agreement on 
June 27 last year, which was ratified by the 
presidents of the two countries..... on 
December 4, with the mediation 
of the United States.
 
Despite these advances in the diplomatic scenario, clashes 
continue on the ground and, according to the Collective of 
Means for the Observation and Monitoring of the Peace 
Agreements in the DRC (Comosa), as of March 2, 2026, 
the overall average implementation rate of the 
Washington Agreement is estimated at
around 31%.
 
“This level ...reflects an institutionally committed but 
structurally fragile process, marked by a persistent 
gap --- between formal commitments and their 
effective implementation on the ground”, 
the institution's report indicated.
 

[Rhondda Records doesn't ''indicate'' it tells the truth
the US is posing as a mediator.... but funds and
arms both sides so it can carry on 
stealing
African resources. AND NO-ONE DOES
ANYTHING TO STOP IT!]
 
____________________________________


Senegal to appeal CAS decision
 in favour of Morocco
March 18th, 12:27pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) will file an appeal 
before the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne, 
Switzerland, following the decision to award Morocco the 
African Cup of Nations title.
 
According to sports media reports today, the FSF rejected the 
measure of the Board of Appeals of the Confederation of 
African Football (CAF) - to declare the final match of the 
continental competition a favourable 3-0 to Morocco 
after determining that the conduct of Senegal's
 team violated articles 82 and 84 of the 
Tournament Regulations.
 
In a statement, the Senegalese entity described as unfair, 
unprecedented and unacceptable, the decision of the 
Appeals Board .....that tarnishes African football.
 
At the same time, the FSF reaffirmed its firm commitment to 
the values of sports integrity and justice and will keep the 
public informed of developments in this matter.
 
A note issued yesterday by the CAF Appeals Board overturned 
Senegal's success in the African Cup final 1-0 in extra time 
and declared Morocco as champion 3-0 accepting the 
resources of that nation after the setback in 
the decisive match on January 18.
 
The dispute for the crown of the African competition was 
marred by the departure of Senegalese footballers from
the field in protest at a penalty in added time - and the 
attempt to break into the terrain by the fans.
 
 
______________________________________________
 
 
Angola and Cuba for greater private
 sector participation in business
March 18th, 10:18am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Angola and Cuba today expressed interest in promoting 
greater participation of the private sector in the 
dynamics of bilateral cooperation between 
the two countries, as well as expanding 
exchanges, in the energy area.
 
The issues were addressed this Tuesday in a meeting 
between.... the Secretary of State for International 
Cooperation & Angolan Communities, Domingos 
Vieira Lopes, and the Cuban ambassador here, 
Óscar León, which allowed us to analyze the 
current state of cooperation in the political
-diplomatic and economic fields.
 
At the meeting, both parties discussed the possibility 
of signing a Memorandum of Understanding - that 
establishes a legal and institutional framework 
to promote joint investments and business 
initiatives, he said, referring to a note 
from the Angolan Foreign Ministry.
 
They also discussed immigration issues, regarding which, 
the Cuban diplomat expressed the interest of Cuba, in 
starting talks with Angola - with a view to defining a 
bilateral mechanism that facilitates the mobility 
of citizens between both countries.
 
They also talked about the prospects for cooperation in the 
oil and energy sectors, considered strategic areas for 
economic development and, in which, Cuba is 
interested in expanding collaboration.
 
León considered Angola as a strategic partner, in view of the 
historical ties of friendship, solidarity and cooperation that 
characterize the relations between both nations.
 
Cuba contributed massively to the achievement of Angolan 
independence -- and then actively participated in the 
defense of this, and the sovereignty and territorial 
integrity of the country, with over 300 thousand 
Cubans ------ who fought alongside the people.
 
Cuba has also contributed to the training of thousands 
of Angolan professionals, in addition to cooperating 
with Angola in areas such as health, education, 
military training and construction, 
among others.
 
 
__________________________________

 
 
Historic agreement - restructures 
debt between Ethiopia and Italy
March 18th, 9:38am 
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Ethiopia and Italy today signed a historic bilateral debt 
restructuring agreement.. that supports the African 
country's economic reform agenda and recovery 
efforts, the Ministry of Finance reported.
 
The agreement signed by the head of the Ethiopian State 
portfolio, Ahmed Shide, and his Italian counterpart, 
Giancarlo Giorgetti, occurred within the frame-
work of the Official Committee of Creditors, 
as part of the G20 Common Framework 
for the treatment of this obligation, 
held in Rome.
 
According to the source, that step ------- marks a significant 
milestone in Addis Ababa's ongoing efforts to stabilize its 
economy and restore debt sustainability amid a broader 
macroeconomic reform agenda.
 
Shide praised Italy's “constructive commitment and 
leadership”, pointing out its fundamental role in 
obtaining the memorandum of understanding 
reached in July 2025 .....and in bringing 
the bilateral agreement ------- to a 
successful conclusion.
 
For his part, Giorgetti stressed that the agreement aligns with 
Ethiopian reform priorities while advancing Italy's Mattei Plan 
for Africa, in which Ethiopia identifies itself as a key partner.
 
The historic bilateral agreement occurred after high-level 
discussions between both parties focused on strategic 
cooperation and the advancement  ------ of major 
development projects.
 
The meeting addressed the financing of development policies 
& priority infrastructure projects. Italy confirmed its support 
for Ethiopia's development policy program, co-financed 
with the World Bank, reinforcing the country's 
macroeconomic reform agenda.
 
The Koysha Hydroelectric Project stood out as a priority 
and, in this regard, Rome reaffirmed its commitment to 
supporting the completion of the initiatives, and 
addressing the remaining financing needs.
 
Both sides reviewed progress in refinancing and raising new
 capital, and final measures are expected to be completed 
in the coming months.
 
Another project discussed was Bishoftu International Airport, 
a national flagship initiative. The European delegation 
praised the performance of Ethiopian Airlines, 
Ethiopia's flag carrier and Africa's largest, 
and he promised ------- to support the 
financing of selected components 
through Italian institutions.
 
They agreed to initiate technical discussions, involving 
the representatives of the local aviation company and 
relevant advisors ------ to develop financing structures 
and modalities.
 
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to 
strengthen the partnership between Ethiopia & Italy 
and promote strategic initiatives....... that foster 
sustainable and inclusive economic growth.
 
 
__________________________________
 
 
New attorney general 
appointed in Angola
March 18th, 9:17am
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of Angola, João Lourenço, today appointed 
Pedro Mendes de Carvalho to the position of attorney 
general, replacing Hélder Pitta Gróz, who had held
 these functions since April 28, 2023.
 
Through two presidential decrees, the president ordered the 
dismissal of Pitta Gróz and the nomination of Mendes de 
Carvalho, for which he took into consideration the 
approval of the Plenary Session of the Superior 
Council of the Prosecutor's Office, after a 
process.. of electing candidates for the 
highest position in the Public Ministry.
 
The selection was made last Monday and three proposals 
resulted: the one finally appointed as attorney general, 
as well as Gilberto Mizalaque Vunge and Luís de 
Assunção Mota Liz.... those who obtained the 
most votes of the 8 candidates presented.
 
Mendes de Carvalho, who headed the National Directorate 
of Investigation and Criminal Action (DNIAP), obtained 
12 votes from the members of the Superior Council 
of the Prosecutor's Office.
 
Meanwhile, Pitta Gróz reached the age limit stipulated 
by law to occupy the position, an issue that publicly 
supports the decision to replace her.
 
 
_____________________________________



Ethiopia and Japan addressed 
issues ---- of bilateral interest
March 17th, 1:18pm
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, Hadera 
Abera, today received the director general and deputy 
head of African Affairs of the Japanese Foreign 
Ministry Takahashi Misako, to address
 issues of bilateral interest.
 
Abera, on his account on the social network X, stressed that 
the meeting reaffirmed the solid and growing alliance 
between both countries, based on a shared 
commitment to strengthen cooperation 
and collaboration at the bilateral, 
regional and global levels.
 
He recognized Tokyo's continued support for development 
in agriculture, infrastructure, education, peace and 
security, and the local private sector.
 
Likewise, the text continued, highlighting the need to continue
 promoting trade and investment, especially in key sectors
 such as agriculture, industry, manufacturing, mining, etc,
 tourism and computer and communication technology.
 
Finally... the African diplomat emphasized the Tokyo
International Conference on African Development 
(Ticad) ...as the cornerstone of the strategic 
alliance ---- with innovation, trade and 
sustainable economic development 
-- defined central pillars of their
continued collaboration.
 
 
________________________________________________
 
 
 
Nigerian president announces 
more security after multiple 
massacre
March 17th, 10:18am
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, today promised to strengthen 
security after the multiple attack this Monday against two 
markets and a hospital in the northeast of his country.
 
Although no source claimed responsibility for the action, 
the guilt is aimed at Boko Haram, the Islamist group
headquartered in Borno state whose capital, 
the city of Maiduguri, was the scene of 
a triple suicide operation.
 
The first count of victims of the attack showed that 23 people 
died immediately and 123 were injured, some seriously, 
which allows us to assume...... that the amount of
 fatalities will increase as the hours go by.
 
Boko Haram is an armed group whose activities also cover 
northern Cameroon, Mali, Niger and Chad, whose armies 
support Nigeria's... in operations against them.
 
This armed group, created in Nigeria in 2002, is the main 
headache of the central government, but not the only 
one, due to the proliferation of armed gangs of 
criminals without ideological inclination 
who kidnap civilians and officials to 
demand cash ransoms and loot 
and murder, stealing crops 
and livestock.
 
 
_____________________________


 Foreign Ministers of Venezuela and
Nigeria talk on topics of interest
March 16th, 2:07pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Minister for Foreign Affairs of Venezuela, Yván Gil, held a 
telephone conversation today with his Nigerian counterpart, 
Yusuf Tuggar, to address important issues of 
bilateral interest.
 
Through his Telegram account, the senior Bolivarian diplomat 
indicated that in the “significant call», they reviewed the 
“excellent state of our bilateral relations”, which 
celebrate 61 years since its establishment.
 
During the conversation... they also explored opportunities for 
cooperation in various areas, such as energy, with a special 
focus on gas exploration, given that both countries are 
important hydrocarbon producers.
 
Gil stated that they also discussed collaboration in the 
educational and agricultural fields, highlighting the 
production and marketing of fertilizers.
 
“These areas will be addressed in the II Nigeria-Venezuela 
Joint Commission, which we will be planning in the near 
future”, he said.
 
The representative of Bolivarian diplomacy added that they 
also exchanged greetings between their governments and 
peoples, who “today are great friends and allies, in favour 
of shared progress and mutual cooperation”.
 
 
 
_________________________________________
 
 
 
They monitor the situation of citizens 
in the Middle East in Angola
 March 16th, 12:05pm 
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Angola, Téte António, today 
chaired a meeting of the working group created to monitor 
the situation of Angolan citizens residing in the Middle 
East, in the context of the current conflict.
 
At the meeting, ambassadors accredited to Israel, Saudi 
Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar presented 
updated information on the scenario in their 
respective countries, as well as the 
measures adopted to guarantee 
consular assistance and 
evacuation support.
 
Before the Minister of National Defense and Veterans of the 
Homeland, João Ernesto dos Santos, and the Secretaries 
of State for Technical Assurance, Cristiano Ndeitunga; of
 Local Authorities, Fernando da Paixão Manuel; health 
for the Hospital Area, Leonardo Inocêncio; and Land 
Transport, Jorge Benge, detailed other aspects of 
the plan.
 
The diplomatic representations also indicated the contact 
mechanisms established with local authorities and 
diplomatic partners to fulfill their purpose, the 
Foreign Ministry said.
 
The meeting, where the general director of the Foreign 
Intelligence Service, Matías Bertino Matondo, also 
participated, complied with a decree of the 
Angolan president, Joao Lourenco, on the 
creation of a multi-sector commission to 
monitor the situation and guarantee the
 protection and eventual evacuation 
of Angolans.
 
According to the Foreign Ministry, the meeting made it possible 
to evaluate contingency scenarios, strengthen coordination 
between the different sectors of the Executive Branch 
and define lines of action for a rapid response to any
 worsening of the situation in the Middle East.
 
Since the beginning of Israel and US attacks on Iran, on 
February 28th, Angola has promoted the evacuation of 
at least 3 groups of citizens residing in conflict zones.
 
 
________________________________________________________
 
 
 
Egypt insists on peace ---- and calls for 
dialogue in the face of regional crisis
March 16th, 11:55am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi, today reiterated his 
call to end the regional escalation and bloodshed, as a 
result of the US-Israel attack on Iran.
 
In a speech in Cairo, the president reaffirmed Egypt's
commitment to supporting just causes --- while 
expressing solidarity with civilians affected 
by the ongoing conflict.
 
He urged all parties to carry out serious negotiations 
aimed at resolving all the regional disputes.
 
Peace represents “the essence of the existence and 
aspiration of the wise” and a fundamental value to 
protect lives and preserve human dignity, the
 ruler stated.
 
As part of this nation's diplomatic offensive to seek 
a negotiated solution to the crisis, El-Sisi spoke 
separately yesterday, by telephone.. with the 
leaders of Qatar, the United Arab Emirates 
and Jordan.
 
According to a statement from his spokesman, Mohamed 
El-Shennawy, the president insisted in his talks ------ on 
revitalizing the principle of collective Arab security.
 
During a meeting, held here last week at the headquarters of 
the Arab League, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty 
called for activating cooperation frameworks, including
the formation of an Arab force.
 
The chancellor emphasized the need to collaborate 
to address the threats facing the Middle East.
 
He considered that this contingent can help protect 
the security and sovereignty of Arab countries.
 
The idea has been a regional dream since 1950, when the 
Joint Defense and Economic Cooperation Treaty was 
signed, although it was never activated. In 2015, at 
a summit held in the Egyptian resort of Sharm
 el-Sheikh, the same topic was discussed.
 
This weekend, El-Sisi called for reducing regional tensions, 
beginning dialogue and adhering to international law.
 
He warned that the area is at a historical crossroads and 
estimated that it faces serious challenges with direct 
implications for the internal situation in Egypt.
 
The ongoing conflict has broad economic, humanitarian and 
security repercussions that “no one will be able to avoid 
and that will affect everyone without exception”, said 
the president.
 
 
______________________________________________
 
 
Ethiopia-Italy dialogue 
strengthens economic
 cooperation
March 16th, 11:46am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Ethiopian Finance Minister Ahmed Shide, heads a delegation 
visiting Italy to hold high-level discussions aimed at 
strengthening bilateral cooperation, the local 
State government reported today.
 
According to a statement, the agenda is focused on 
strengthening the economic partnership and 
expanding the areas of collaboration 
between the two countries.
 
As part of the programme, Shide spoke with Italian Deputy 
Foreign Minister and International Cooperation, Edmondo 
Cirielli about new opportunities for greater participation 
in development and collaboration in the economy.
 
They discussed ways to deepen the long-standing partnership 
between Addis Ababa and Rome, with a focus on expanding 
private sector investment, stability and regional integration.
 
Shide reported on the progress of Ethiopia's macroeconomic 
reform program, highlighting ongoing efforts - to strengthen 
macroeconomic stability, improve the investment climate 
and support sustainable, inclusive, economic growth.
 
He appreciated the European country's continued support
 for Ethiopia .........in a variety of development areas.
 
Cirielli, for his part, praised Addis Ababa's leadership in 
achieving strong economic growth and recognized its 
important role in promoting stability in the Horn of 
Africa and as a key anchor for regional stability.
 
He also reiterated Italy's strong political commitment, at the 
highest level of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, to support 
Ethiopian economic and development priorities.
 
He further emphasized that Rome will continue to strengthen 
its commitment to the African nation through development 
cooperation initiatives ------ and encourage greater 
participation of Italian private sector investors 
in the Ethiopian economy.
 
 
___________________________________________
 
 
 
Prime Minister of Ethiopia spoke 
with the president of Russia
March 16th, 11:32am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, spoke today by 
telephone with the President of Russia, Valdimir Putin, on 
bilateral issues and other topics of mutual interest.
 
“Today I had a productive conversation with President Vladimir
 Putin about bilateral issues and other issues of mutual 
interest”, Ahmed reported on his X social 
network account.
 
According to the Russian Embassy in Ethiopia, both sides 
discussed current issues of bilateral cooperation.. in the 
political, commercial, economic and humanitarian fields
- in accordance with the agreements reached after the 
African leader's visit to Moscow in September 2025.
 
They reaffirmed their mutual commitment to continue 
strengthening friendly relations between the two 
countries and agreed to intensify contacts 
between the relevant ministries 
and agencies.
 
Putin also expressed his condolences regarding the 
tragic consequences of landslides and floods due 
to heavy rains in the Southern region of Ethiopia. 
The disaster that occurred on March 10 left 70 
dead, affected infrastructure .....and 
displaced the population.
 
 
___________________________________




Niger has protested to the EU ---- over calls 
to release the country's former president
by Alexey Merkulov (Tunisia)
March 13th, 4:56pm
(Rossiyskaya Gazeta) 
 
To share
 
Niger's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bakar Yaw Sangare, 
summoned the Chargé d'Affaires of the EU delegation 
in Niger, Nicolette Avella. The EU diplomat - was 
presented with a note of protest, according to 
the government of the West African country.
 
The statement notes that the purpose of the call was to 
officially express the Nigerien government's outrage 
over the EU Parliament's resolution regarding the 
situation with ex President Mohamed Bazoum.
 
Following the meeting, Ms. Avella...... was presented with an 
official note of protest. In the document, the government of 
Niger strongly condemns the EU's interference in the 
country's internal affairs, and describes the EU's 
position as ''a manifestation of a paternalistic 
and arrogant approach."
 
Avella was presented with an official letter of protest, in 
which the government ''strongly condemns the EU's 
interference in the internal affairs of Niger,"
 the statement reads.
 
The authorities in Niamey ---- have expressed their
firm 
determination - not to accept any external
''instructions'' ...regardless of their source.
 
As a reminder, Mohamed Bazoum served as President of Niger 
from April 2rd 2021, to July 26th, 2023, when he was removed 
from office after a military coup. Since then, Abdourahmane 
Ciani has assumed the presidency. In June 2024, the 
Supreme Court of Niger ..stripped the former 
president of his immunity, paving the way 
for legal proceedings.

The authorities 
accuse Bazoum -- of conspiracy 
against the security and authority of the state
treason, propaganda and terrorist financing.
 
 
_____________________________
 
 
 
Kenya thanks Belarus for
 humanitarian aid for 
flood victims
by Alexander Gatsak (Nairobi)
March 13th, 4:36pm
(Rossiyskaya Gazeta) 
 
To share
 
Belarus has sent 7.5 tons of humanitarian aid to Kenya to 
support families affected by the floods that hit the East 
African country last week. Minsk has sent clothes, 
shoes, construction materials, tents, and 
children's supplies to Nairobi.
 
According to Ismail Maalim Madeya, Head of the Department 
of Special Programs at the Ministry of Public Affairs, the 
donation will help restore the dignity of internally 
displaced families and strengthen the growing 
partnership between Kenya and Belarus in
 the field of humanitarian aid and 
disaster relief.
 
"The country is increasingly facing unpredictable weather 
conditions. More than 30 regions - have been affected by 
drought, but before we could fully address these issues, 
we were hit by devastating floods --- that caused 
significant damage," said the Kenyan official. 
"This assistance has come... at an 
opportune time."
 
Dmitry Krasovsky, the Ambassador of Belarus to Nairobi,
 emphasized the importance of delivering the cargo to 
affected communities, as soon as possible. "Belarus 
values its partnership with Kenya and is pleased to 
support the government's humanitarian efforts. 
This donation is a symbol of solidarity 
between our countries," the 
ambassador said.
 
Heavy rains in the African country - have caused the deaths of 
several dozen people, the demolition of informal settlements, 
damage to property, and the destruction of farmland. The 
Kenyan authorities.. have deployed the military to carry 
out rescue operations and mitigate the consequences 
of the floods.
 
 
__________________________________________



Angola, DRC and South Africa 
sign cooperation instrument 
March 13th, 10:59am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and 
South Africa, signed a legal instrument to strengthen 
their cooperation in the political-diplomatic and 
economic spheres, the foreign ministry 
of Angola reports.
 
The foreign minister of Angola, Téte António, and of South 
Africa, Ronald Lamola, as well as the deputy foreign
minister of the DRC, Noëlla Ayeganagato 
Nakwipone, were in charge of the 
session, held in Pretoria, in the 
context of the Meeting of the 
Council of Ministers of the 
Community of Southern 
African Development 
(SADC).
 
The so-called Tripartite machinery for Dialogue and 
Cooperation, seeks to consolidate the strategic 
alliance between the three nations and to 
promote greater coordination on issues 
of common interest, within which.. are 
included to support the consolidation 
of peace and stability in the DRC.
 
It also promotes regular political dialogue, strengthening 
the ties of cooperation in various sectors.. with respect 
to human rights and compliance with international law.
 
The instrument should serve as a basis to promote joint 
projects that contribute to sustainable economic 
development and the deepening of regional 
integration, said the source.
 
With an initial term of six years, renewable automatically for 
equal periods by agreement between the three States, the 
entry into force of the document will come after the 
formal notification between the Parties of their 
completion of the respective legal internal
requirements, to its implementation.
 
 
_____________________________________


 Congress of the ruling party of Angola 
is scheduled for December
March 12th, 3:43pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The ninth ordinary congress of the party of Popular Movement 
for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) is scheduled for the 9th 
and 10th of December of this year, today approved the 
Central Committee of the organization.
 
Under the motto MPLA, Commitment to the people and 
confidence in the future, the meeting of the ruling 
party must meet in Luanda with around 3,000
 delegates, reportedly.
 
During the meeting this Thursday in the Conference Centre
 in Belas, Luanda, the party's president, João Lourenço, 
proposed that in the process of renewal at least 15% 
of the candidate members of the Central Committee 
should be from the committees intermediate from
 the base.
 
This decision aims to give you a role of greater prominence 
and appreciation to those who “live the daily life of the 
people” and give it its true dynamism and vitality in 
the future.
 
Lourenço called to intensify the work on the base and the 
work door-to-door --- face-to-face mobilizing the electoral 
process in 2027, it is imperative that on the day of the 
elections, people are directed to the centres of 
voting and exercising their rights.
 
“We can't stay asleep. What are the documents and the 
mass events if, on the day of the election, our activists 
and supporters don't come to the polls?”, he stressed.
 
The president of the MPLA noted other aspects such as 
the need to improve the statistical base, define a 
growth strategy and attract new members to
 the organization.
 
Also discussed - was the importance of maintaining a dialogue 
with the different sectors of Angolan society and a permanent 
political mobilization in social networks, as a way to employ 
a powerful tool for citizen participation, but also to fight --- 
against misinformation.
 
In this regard, he warned that the enemies and political 
opponents use this media to promote attacking the 
integrity, honour and good name of the party 
leaders; and warned about the possible 
emergence of discourses regarding 
alleged electoral fraud, to which 
we must remain vigilant.
 
Lourenço announced that the politburo of the MPLA adopted a 
comprehensive programme of activities for the 70 years of the
 creation of the party, which called for the mobilization of the
 structures from the grassroots to the highest levels, to 
ensure the active participation of members 
and supporters.
 
 
______________________________________________
 
 
 
Egypt says available to mediate 
and ask for an end of the war
March 12th, 12:20pm
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
Egypt will continue its mediation to try to put an end to the war 
of the US and Israel against Iran, ratified today the minister of 
Foreign Affairs of this country, Badr Abdelatty.
 
The minister of Foreign Affairs ---- warned of the serious 
economic, political and geostrategic consequences 
arising from the escalation of violence, which 
began on the 28th of February last.
 
Abdelatty made his comments during a series of 'phone calls 
with several Persian gulf nations and Europe, highlighted 
by the foreign ministry in a statement.
 
According to the text, the official spoke on the topic with 
their peers, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Oman 
and Germany.
 
The head of Egyptian diplomacy also renewed his call
on Tehran to stop attacking targets in Arab countries.
 
Iran says that its targets are US military installations 
but they point out that they also targeted civilian 
buildings, airports, docks and structures of oil.
 
The minister also stressed the need for a rethinking 
on a wider range of regional security cooperation.
 
In this regard, he reiterated the call from Cairo to activate 
the the Arab Joint Defense Agreement and establish a 
unified Arab force --- a step he described as essential 
to protect the sovereignty of its members.
 
As part of the Egyptian diplomatic offensive, Abdelatty talked 
via the telephone, with his counterparts from Jordan, 
Ayman Safadi; from Bahrain, Abdullatif bin Rashid 
Al-Zayani, and also --- Iran's Abbas Araqchi.
 
This Monday, the Egyptian president, Abdel Fattah El-
Sisi renewed his call to end the war -- and warned 
that it 
threatens the overall institutional order.
 
It is necessary to resolve the conflict by peaceful means, 
otherwise, you continue to erode the confidence of the 
developing nations in the international system based 
on rules, said El-Sisi in an emergency meeting of 
leaders of the EU and the Middle East, held 
through video-conferencing.
 
The governor warned that the escalation disturbs the energy 
markets, trade and global supply chains, and ensures -- that 
the developing countries are the most affected.
 
 
______________________________________________


Western-backed ''paramilitary group''
bombs school and hospital in Sudan
March 11th, 4:43pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
A school and a hospital in Shukairi, in the state of 
White Nile, report that they were bombed here 
today, say medical sources.
 
As a result of the attack, carried out with drones, 
17 people were killed, while the number of
injured, is not yet determined.
 
The attack was denounced by the non-governmental 
organization, the Sudan Doctors Network, and
attributed to the so-called Rapid Support 
Forces, in a massacre, in which - they
pointed out - there are women, 
children, students, teachers 
and medical staff among
 the victims.
 
In a statement posted on social networks, the medical 
institution said that since the beginning of this week, 
several civilian facilities have been attacked, 
including a hall of residence for students, 
and a power plant - as well as several
residential neighbourhoods.
 
 
[Rhondda Records adds: Question - why don't 
any Western countries name this militia as 
a terrorist group? Answer ---- because the
imperialist West want to destroy states
that have sovereignty ---- and only call 
as terrorists --- those wise, brave and 
honourable enough to oppose them.]
 
 
_____________________________


Nicaragua --- greets Mauritius'
anniversary of independence
March 11th, 4:21pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Government of Nicaragua aired today its congratulations
 to the people and authorities of Mauritius on the occasion 
of the 58th anniversary of the independence of the
 african nation, proclaimed on 12 March 1968.
 
In a message addressed to the president Dharambeer Gokhool,
the Nicaraguan authorities celebrated with joy and respect, 
“the courage, the determination and fighting spirit of the 
brother Mauritian people ”, which, on that historic date 
achieved its independence --- asserting their right to 
self-determination and.... opening a new chapter 
as a free and sovereign nation.
 
“On this significant date, we would like to express on behalf of
 the People and Government of Reconciliation and National 
Unity, and in our own name --- our most sincere 
congratulations to you -- the Government, 
and the brotherly people of Mauritius,”
 said the text.
 
The message also highlighted that the people of Mauritius 
have continued to build their country with dignity and 
commitment, based on the work, the unity and the 
constant search.... for the well-being and 
development of their families.
 
The text, signed by the co-presidents Daniel Ortega and 
Rosario Murillo, said -- that the commemoration of the 
National Day of Mauritius continues to inspire pride, 
hope and unity -- in every citizen of that country, 
renewing the commitment to move toward a 
future of prosperity, welfare and peace.
 
Also, from Nicaragua reiterated the desire to continue to
 strengthen the historical ties of brotherhood, friendship,
 and cooperation ---- that unite their two peoples 
and governments.
 
 
_______________________________________________
 
 
Fighting in South Sudan Akobo
city ------ causes displacement
March 11th, 4:20pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
About 200,000 people left Akobo heading to nearby 
Tiergol on the border with Ethiopia - in the face of 
fierce fighting - between government troops and 
opposition forces, it became known here today.
 
On the eve, the Army intensified its attacks, and before: 
they demanded that international agencies and health
workers leave the city, which caused the inhabitants 
to be without humanitarian assistance and
 medical services.
 
The fighting began last week in an attempt by government 
forces to regain control of the city... which is held by the
opposition forces.
 
It was also reported that the lack of communication prevents
 confirmation of the real situation in the city although it was 
said that Army forces penetrated the city... from Tuesday.
 
On the other hand, agencies of the United Nations reported 
that the cut to the budgets of humanitarian aid, threatens 
some two million internally displaced people in S. Sudan.
 
According to data from the International Organization for 
Migration (IOM), the decrease of humanitarian aid to the 
African country, where 10 million people are in critical
conditions, increases their distress.
 
Ugochi Daniels, deputy director general of IOM operations, 
stressed that the funding cuts threaten to undermine the 
process towards durable solutions for millions of people.
 
In recent times, the current government in Washington, 
chaired by Donald Trump --- drastically decreased the 
humanitarian aid to African countries, both directly 
and through international organizations.
 
S. Sudan is also faced with the arrival of people fleeing 
the conflict in Sudan, in addition to its own internally 
displaced, due to years of wars, floods and Western
imperialism's deliberately fomenting fragmentation,
the loss of countries sovereignty -- and instability.
 
After a ''civil war'' five years ago, which destroyed the 
economy, led to almost 400 thousand people dead 
and unleashed a humanitarian crisis, this fake
highly sectarian Christian, & oil-rich country,
still faces the challenge of ''reconciliation''.
 
It was once part of Egypt... not so long ago!
 
 
_____________________________________________
 
 
Somali army regains control 
of a small southern town
March 11th, 4:09pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Western installed Somali Army announces the 
recovery of Hauaadley in the gobolka (region) of 
Lower Shabelle, in the south of the country.
 
The area was for months under the control of the forces 
of Al-Shabab (Youth, in Arabic), the islamist militia  
and main rival of the central government, led 
by president Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
 
The information lacks independent confirmation.
 
 
_________________________________________
 
 
Ethiopia and the International 
Telecommunications Union,
 strengthen ties
March 11th, 1:42pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The deputy prime minister of Ethiopia, Temesgen Tiruneh, 
spoke today --- with the director of the International 
Telecommunications Union, Cosmas Zavazava, 
on ways to strengthen cooperation in
digital development.
 
Tiruneh, in his account of the social network X, revealed 
that Zavazava expressed admiration for the remarkable 
and tangible achievements in the country -- in the 
expansion of access.. to telecommunications 
and digital infrastructure - the creation of 
capacities and institutions of the sector 
& the effective implementation of the 
Strategy, Ethiopia Digital 2025.
 
In the future, they agree to continue to work in close 
cooperation, not only to successfully implement the 
Strategy, Ethiopia Digital 2030 in progress, but also
 for advancing their association to new phases of
 impact ......in all the emerging sectors.
 
“Ethiopia is firmly on its way to becoming a digital leader in 
Africa and beyond, through a solid vision, decisive action 
& strategic global alliances. Grateful for the continued
 support & shared commitment of the ITU. Together, 
we build a digital future connected, innovative,
and 
inclusive!”, he said.
 
The publication reported on the agreement to collaborate 
in the organization of international conferences of the 
activity in Ethiopia... which will allow the African 
nation to show their best work to the world.
 
 
__________________________________________


Africa news is being squeezed by
Iran's fight against the Zionists
--- so here's a prime piece
from BRICS. Enjoy!  
 
BRICS --- and Africa: A New Era of
Multilateral Partnerships for 2026
by Ashraf Patel
March 10th, 2026
(http://infobrics.org/)
 
Africa’s G20 is done and dusted. Like a teenage dream, it got
 a rude awakening as Realpolitik hit hard amidst Trump 2.0.
 
Overall, Africa’s G20 program outcomes were: ‘more symbolism 
than substance’. With no deals on African debt ...or progress in 
peace or fair trade, Africa enters a complex geopolitical world.
 
The BRICS bloc steps in to deepen partnership potential. 
 
Current Realpolik means that the US and EU’s increased 
military budgets, huge cuts in development aid, and 
trade wars mean that the BRICS bloc offers 
substantive development potential. 
But can African nations leverage
 these benefits? Let’s unpack.
 
BRICS is an anchor of Multilateralism, and..... with AU, ASEAN, 
and G77, it is a natural partner. BRICS giants have achieved 
structural transformation, industrialisation and are scaling 
in global technology value chains. These are also lessons 
for many emerging nations in Africa.
 
Aligning with Africa’s 2026 priorities
 
As the African Union (AU) meets in its 39th Extraordinary 
meeting -- Africa faces a profound water and sanitation 
crisis, with over 400 million people lacking access to 
basic drinking water ------ and more than 700 million 
without safely managed sanitation. The 2026 AU 
Theme of the Year -- emphasises sustainable 
water availability and safe sanitation - as 
essential to achieving the AU’s Agenda 
2063, fostering economic growth, 
social development..... and 
climate resilience.
 
Addressing Africa's water and sanitation challenges demands
 a comprehensive, integrated, and people-centred approach 
that defines Agenda 2063's philosophy ------- of African 
ownership and African solutions.
 
The African Union's 2026 priorities and their theme of the year: 
"Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation
Systems"
includes key focus areas 
on advancing climate
resilience ahead of 
COP30, enhancing infrastructure, 
accelerating the African Continental Free Trade 
Area (AfCFTA) -------- for economic growth, 
and maintaining peace & security.
 
Water and Sanitation
 
The AU - is prioritising sustainable water management, 
improved sanitation systems, and water efficiency, to
 foster development and health across the continent.
 
BRICS nations ---- have commitments to infrastructure 
development in the Declaration on water and climate 
investments, and have endorsed the WHO's 
declaration on health for all, which 
provides a firm anchor for 
development support.
 
 India’s progress on mass sanitisation implementation 
over the past decade is noteworthy, and much
 co-operation in this area can be leveraged 
for African nations.
 
Climate Change and Environment
 
Building on the 2025 African Climate Summit, 2026 
initiatives focus on climate-resilient development 
and environmental protection.
 
From floods in Mozambique, Limpopo and KZN to droughts in 
Zimbabwe, BRICS nations have promised climate change as
 ...a core anchor. Brazil's leadership of the COP 30 Belen 
Declaration, Russia as a nuclear tech partners, and 
China’s Green superpower and support for Loss 
and Damage Funds ....are hallmarks of the 
BRICS nations.
 
A range of climate resilience technologies and disaster 
management systems from the BRICS core nations 
can assist Africa. From solar to water repairs to 
AI and sustainability - leading BRICS nations 
have the technology and co-operative will 
--- to assist.
 
Economic Integration
 
The agenda focuses on the implementation of the AfCFTA, 
fostering trade, and developing infrastructure (PIDA) to 
create jobs and boost economic growth.
 
The AFCFTA has been operating for five years, and intra-
continental trade is low. China’s 2025 offering of duty-
free access to African nations - is a huge boost. The 
BRICS New Development Bank is already investing 
and can complement the AU's PIDA program 
going forward.
 
Peace and Security
 
The AU is prioritising conflict resolution, mediation, 
and enhancing regional security mechanisms,
 to address ongoing conflicts.
 
Peace and security are elusive in Africa with the mushrooming 
of wars and conflicts. Many --- are vulnerable... to great power 
competition. Here, the BRICS nations' stated commitment to 
multilateralism is good, but individual BRICS nations, such 
as the UAE’s role in the Sudan civil war, are problematic, 
and there is an opportunity for the BRICS nations.... to 
develop new norms, for peace and security. Another 
opportunity is for support to African peacekeepers.
 
Health and Social Development
 
The AU seeks to focus on areas that include strengthening 
health systems, particularly sustainable financing for 
malaria and enhancing social welfare. Health and 
Social development ----- are key foundations for 
BRICS co-operation. The Pandemic treaty at 
WHO is a big boost for developing nations. 
BRICS nations China & Russia assisted 
Africa during COVID.
 
Challenges such as Affordable IP for health tech and 
pandemic preparedness are standing programs 
where BRICS nations have the capacity to 
scale. Investment in Human Capital 
Development and rural health, is 
an area where BRICS nations 
can enhance support in the 
context of USAID cuts.
 
An example is Egypt’s Gypto Pharma City ------ a large-scale 
pharmaceutical hub north of Cairo. Local production can 
reduce import dependency, increase self-sufficiency in 
healthcare, and provide a high-value industrial avenue.
 
Egypt’s focus -- on building a robust pharmaceutical ecosystem 
aligns with the need for African countries to develop medical 
and pharmaceutical industries that meet domestic needs 
and integrate into the global supply chain. South Africa 
can tap into these fellow BRICS partnerships to make 
AFCFTA a reality.
 
Institutional Reform
 
The 2026 budget sees increased self-financing, reflecting 
a commitment to institutional reform and reducing 
Africa's reliance on international partners.
 
The AU has long been criticised for being donor dependent, 
and some level of autonomy -- is welcome. However, AU 
reforms should deepen and generate self-resourcing. 
There is a need - to boost African Peacekeeping as 
US budget cuts to the UN are a new reality. Many
 UN agencies based in Nairobi face major cuts.
 
African Digitalisation
 
The integration of digital technologies and AI 
into key sectors like energy and transport is 
a priority for infrastructure development.
 
Africa’s industrialisation, is lagging behind other developing 
regions. This renewed focus aims to address fundamental 
local challenges, such as economic diversification, job 
creation and the energy transition -- and also aligns 
with the global megatrends such as digitalisation
 and green industrialisation.
 
The BRICS model of Digital Industrialisation ------ is relevant. 
Investment in AI capacity and human capital development, 
as well as broadband and connectivity in line with the AU 
Digital Transformation Strategy 2030 are critical in order
 to boost education and economic development. 
 
AI strategies can only succeed - if the basic and intermediate 
infrastructures, such as Energy and broadband, are in place. 
Here, the BRICS model... is more compelling and relevant 
for Africa.
 
As the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of
State and Government in February -- will finalise these 
initiatives, 2026 is a turning point for Global South 
Multilateralism. Hence ---- a new BRICS-Africa 
narrative and partnerships in the Global
 South ...are needed.
 
This -- is an opportune time for a new Africa Union – BRICS 
Partnership Forum, underpinned by a new Charter which 
can be a prime mover, as Global South co-operation 
grows --- in a brave new world.
 
Ashraf Patel is a Senior Research Associate
 at the Institute for Global Dialogue, UNISA.
 
(The African)


______________________________________



 Lula and Ramaphosa ------- for strengthening 
cooperation between Brazil & South Africa
March 9th, 2:50pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and his South
 African counterpart, Cyril Ramaphosa, reaffirmed here today, 
their commitment --- to strengthen bilateral cooperation and 
promote a greater articulation of the Global South'a voice.
 
During the state visit of the South African president, both 
leaders held a meeting in which they reviewed bilateral, 
regional and multilateral issues, in addition to signing 
instruments aimed at promoting economic, political
and commercial ties, between the two countries.
 
In subsequent statements to the press, Lula stressed that the 
2 countries share the conviction that the Global South must 
have an active voice in important international decisions.
 
Furthermore, he highlighted that Brazil and South Africa share 
the defense of a more balanced international order, based on 
international law and multilateralism, and he recalled - that 
both nations cooperate in spaces such as the BRICS, the 
India-Brazil-South Africa Dialogue Forum and the G20.
 
According to the Brazilian president, bilateral trade has 
remained stagnant for almost two decades, with a 
volume close to two thousand 300 million reais 
(438 million dollars), a figure that, he stated, 
is far from the potential of two of the 
most industrialized economies in 
the Global South.
 
South Africa - is the most industrialized country on the 
African continent and Brazil is the most industrialized 
in Latin America. There is no explanation -- why our 
trade does not exceed 10 billion dollars, he noted.
 
In that sense..... both governments signed an agreement 
between the Brazilian Export and Investment Promotion
Agency (Apex-Brasil) and the South African Department 
of Commerce, Industry and Competitiveness, aimed at 
expanding investments and commercial exchanges.
 
They also renewed the Tourism Action Plan for four years to 
promote leisure and business trips between both nations.
 
For his part, Ramaphosa thanked the historical solidarity 
of the Brazilian people and highlighted the importance 
of expanding cooperation in strategic sectors - such 
as agriculture, basic education, agribusiness 
and commerce.
 
Strengthening our economic cooperation is imperative, he 
said, noting that his country seeks to expand reciprocal 
access to markets ...and develop exports with greater 
added value.
 
Ramaphosa also stressed -- that South Africa can serve as a 
gateway for Brazil to the African continent, while the South 
American country represents strategic access.. for Latin 
America and the Caribbean.
 
At the international level - both leaders expressed concern 
about the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East and
 reiterated the call for a peaceful solution, based on 
dialogue ------- and the principles of the United 
Nations Charter.
 
 
_________________________________________________
 
 
 
Red Cross - will support DRC 
military liberation operation
March 9th, 2:31pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in the 
Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) today assured its 
willingness to support a transfer of some 5,000 members 
of the Armed Forces liberated by the rebels.
 
The head of the ICRC delegation in Kinshasa --- François 
Moreillon, told Actualité.CD -- that the organization took 
note of the announcement of the Congo River Alliance
-March 23 Movement (AFC/M23) on the release of 
several detained Army members, and... as a 
neutral intermediary, is willing to support 
the said operation.
 
In May 2025 - the ICRC facilitated the transfer of more than 
1,300 unarmed soldiers from Goma to Kinshasa, therefore, 
there is experience of working with the parties - to fulfill 
the commitments made under the Doha Process.
 
This Monday --- the AFC/M23 reported the decision to release 
more than five thousand members of the DRC Armed Forces 
captured on various fronts, and he said they would be 
handed over to the ICRC ....to monitor their return 
to Kinshasa.
 
The spokesman for the insurgents, Lawrence Kanyuka, noted 
on his account on the social network X that the act would be 
carried out in the Rugamabo camp in the province of North 
Kivu, and he considered it as a “humanitarian gesture” 
that reaffirms the commitment ---- to implement 
confidence-building measures.
 
However, he noted that “while the AFC/M23 takes concrete 
measures for detente, the Kinshasa regime persists in its 
stubborn stance. He continues to refuse to release our 
comrades and others arbitrarily detained and illegally 
arrested simply for their appearance”.
 
Kanyuka also accused the DRC Government of continuing to 
violate the ceasefire agreed and in force since February 18, 
as well as imposing a large-scale war against the rebels, 
attacking the civilian population and their property.
 
“Given this situation, the AFC/M23 draws the attention of 
national and international mediators and partners.. to 
Kinshasa's repeated violations of the ceasefire and 
the war being waged against it”, added 
the message.
 
He concluded by reaffirming that the blood of the 
Congolese people ''shed by Félix Tshisekedi'' 
(president) will not be ignored or silenced.
 
 
____________________________________________________
 
 
 
For the first time, Africa & Europe
--------- strengthen health security
March 9th, 1:01pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Africa and Europe today signed their first memorandum of 
understanding to strengthen health security in both 
regions, a statement revealed.
 
Director General of the African Centers for Disease Control 
and Prevention (CDC Africa), Jean Kaseya, and the 
director of the European Centre for Disease 
Prevention and Control.. (ECDC), Pamela 
Rendi-Wagner, signed the document.
 
The agreement formalizes a decade of collaboration 
between the two organizations in critical areas for 
global health, the text stressed.
 
The note specified that the agreement establishes 
a framework to improve cooperation in disease 
surveillance, risk assessment and emergency 
preparedness and response.
 
Likewise, it will include joint actions in areas such 
as antimicrobial resistance, vaccine-preventable 
diseases ----- and emerging and re-emerging 
health threats.
 
It will also - support collaboration in data analytics, 
modeling and forecasting, laboratory capabilities, 
workforce development & public health training.
 
Kaseya stated that infectious diseases do not 
respect borders, and our response must be 
equally interconnected.
 
He highlighted that, with the partnership with the ECDC, 
they strengthen the most important basic capabilities 
for health security: timely surveillance, qualified 
public health workforce, stronger preparation 
and institutions that can act quickly 
and effectively.
 
“This --- is how we build lasting resilience and 
better protect Africa's communities”, he said.
 
For her part, Rendi-Wagner recognized that the 
memorandum of understanding represents an 
important step forward for European, African
 and global health security. Strong partner-
ships and close cooperation are essential 
to address the current and emerging 
global health challenges we face 
together, ahe said.
 
“Our health security and progress depend on each other, 
and I look forward to close and fruitful collaboration 
with colleagues at CDC Africa”, she stressed.
 
The memorandum builds on the successful completion in
April this year of a five-year partnership project between 
both parties funded by the European Commission.
 
The statement announced that they will continue their 
collaboration through a new five-year action starting 
in May 2026 under the Team Europe Initiative on 
combating resistance to antimicrobials and 
strengthening the single health approach 
in Africa, in collaboration with the 
EU Food Safety Authority.
 
 
_______________________________________
 
 
 
African Union called for dialogue
in the face of Persian Gulf crisis
March 9th, 11:48am
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of the African Union (AU) Commission, 
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, called today for dialogue 
and diplomacy, as well as to de-escalate the 
situation in the Persian Gulf region.
 
Several US military bases located in countries in the 
region are under attack as part of Iran's ongoing 
reaction to the military operations launched 
by the US & Israel since last february 28.
 
Iran claims its attacks are not against specific countries, 
although several civilian infrastructures, including 
airports, ports and buildings, were damaged 
during the bombings.
 
Youssouf, in a statement, revealed that he closely follows 
these events that increase tensions and undermine 
economic and regional stability. He stressed that 
these actions disrupt vital supply chains... and 
have profound implications for international 
trade and energy markets.
 
It condemned any violation of international law, including the 
sovereignty and territorial integrity of States, and called on 
all interested parties to exercise maximum restraint, 
prioritize dialogue and diplomacy ---- and work to 
achieve a rapid de-escalation of the situation.
 
The latter, in accordance with the principles and 
purposes of the Charter of the United Nations.
 
He stressed that stability in the Persian Gulf region, is of 
particular importance for global energy security and the 
international economy ------ with direct implications for 
African economies.
 
The president of the AU Commission warned that rising oil 
prices and disruptions to trade routes affect the markets, 
including the export of perishable goods from Africa, 
while disruptions to airspace negatively influence 
local airlines and travel connectivity.
 
The Commission...... is closely monitoring the potential 
implications of these developments, for the well-being 
of its citizens and diaspora communities in the region
including those residing in Iran and the Gulf 
Cooperation Council countries.
 
Youssouf called for the protection of all civilians and 
urged ensuring safe passage & necessary support 
to foreigners, including Africans working and
 residing in the Middle East.
 
He reiterated the African Union's commitment to 
international law.... the peaceful resolution of 
disputes & the preservation of international 
peace and security. The Commission will 
closely monitor ''developments;; in the 
situation, the statement concluded.
 
 
_______________________________________________
 
 
Ethiopia and China agree to collaborate 
in the telecommunications sector
March 9th, 11:27am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Ethiopia's state-owned telecommunications company, Ethio 
Telecom, & ZTE Corporation, a global provider of Chinese 
networking equipment and solutions, signed a major
expansion and modernization agreement, the 
Ethiopian News Agency reported today.
 
The agreement signed during the 2026 Mobile World Congress,
held from March 2 to 5 in Barcelona, Spain, will significantly 
strengthen connectivity and accelerate digital inclusion 
in the African country by covering 647 network sites, 
including 115 in rural areas.
 
Ethio Telecom CEO Frehiwot Tamru and members of the 
company's executive management.... held a series of 
strategic conversations with senior ZTE executives 
during the signing of the agreement.
 
The project will raise the population's 4G coverage to 95.5%, 
allowing millions of citizens, companies and public 
institutions to access reliable, high-speed 
mobile connectivity.
 
Officials said the initiative... will play an important role in 
expanding digital inclusion, and extending advanced 
mobile broadband services, to rural and previously 
underserved communities.
 
Both sides also addressed, looking ahead, the 
acceleration of the implementation of Ethio 
Telecom's corporate transformation 
strategy, titled «Next Digital 
Horizon and beyond 2028».
 
This alliance underlines the long-standing collaboration
 between the two companies and reflects a shared 
commitment to strengthening Ethiopia's digital 
ecosystem through modern and resilient 
telecommunications infrastructure.
 
The initiative will support the country's digital 
transformation agenda with the expansion of 
high-speed connectivity, enabling new 
digital services and empowering
 communities, institutions 
and companies.
 
Ethio Telecom reaffirmed its commitment to investing 
in advanced technologies and strategic alliances to 
position Addis Ababa as an emerging digital hub 
on the African continent.
 
 
________________________________________________
 
 
Cocoa plethora? ruins
 African producers?
March 9th, 11:26am
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The lethal combination of high production and low demand 
today has Ivory Coast and Ghana, the two African cocoa 
giants, in crisis.
 
Days ago, the Ivorian government entity announced that it 
would reduce the price it pays to producers due to the 
decrease in demand and therefore value in the 
international market.
 
The cut, which in Ghana was around 30 percent, was most 
drastic in Ivory Coast, where it was set at 50 percent and 
worst of all, settled in promissory notes... that the 
authorities of this West African country have 
been unable to redeem.
 
The situation has producers in crisis, since they do not have 
funds to face the expenses involved in replacing cocoa 
cultivation with another that opens new markets, 
domestic or international, waiting for the lean 
times to pass and the prosperity that is so
 fickle to them ------ to return.
 
 
_____________________________


 More than 10 thousand registered 
candidates for general elections 
in Ethiopia
March 7th, 11:05am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
A total of 10 thousand 934 candidates of 47 political parties 
are registered for the Seventh General Elections scheduled 
for the 1st of June, in Ethiopia, said the president of the
National Electoral Board, Melatwork Hailu, today.
 
In a press conference, Melatwork said that two thousand 198
 applicants will contest seats in the Chamber of People's 
Representatives (Parliament) ---- while eight thousand 
736 apply for positions in various Regional Councils.
 
In addition to the disputing affiliates of the parties, 73 
independent candidates are enrolled to participate 
in the elections. Of these, 69 were men and four 
women, it was revealed.
 
On the other hand, the National Electoral Board officially 
launched the registration of voters across the country 
on the 28th of February last, after finishing all the 
preparations, logistics and administrative, as 
planned. The process will last for a month 
and will be done by means of digital 
systems, and manually.
 
Citizens can register by downloading the mobile app 
"Mirchaye" (My Choice) from the Play Store or the 
App Store. The Board distributed tablets to 
election officials located in the polling 
stations to facilitate this step.
 
According to the source, implemented in coordination 
with the state Ethio Telecom. telecommunications 
company ----- will be prioritized in areas with 
connectivity to the internet 3G system,
or higher. 
 
As part of the preparations for the general elections, the
official symbols of the political parties in the election 
were revealed, and the Code of Ethics and Conduct 
of the Candidate... was signed last month, whose 
aim is to promote a responsible campaign and 
defend the integrity of the elections during 
this period.
 
 
_________________________________________________
 
 
Traffic accident in Angola 
leaves 24 dead
March 7th, 10:43am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of Angola, João Lourenço, lamented today, the 
traffic accident that occurred in the municipality of Munenga 
in the province of Kwanza Sul, with a balance - up to now, of 
24 dead and twenty wounded.
 
The incident happened in the early hours of this Saturday, 
and the authorities continued to research the causes of 
the loss.
 
The Angolan representative, through a press release, 
expressed sorrow for the deceased citizens and 
emphasized the commitment of a specialized 
body of work -- to clarify the causes of the 
“bloody episode” that brought pain to
 many households.
 
“In my name, and in the name of the Angolan Executive,
I express my deepest condolences to all who lost their 
loved ones in this tragedy, and I hope.. that all the
victims recover as soon as possible - and return 
to their families,” said Lourenço in a message.
 
Preliminary data from the Service of Civil Protection and Fire
indicate: that the accident was characterized by the loss
of the pathway ...and the overturning of a bus with 56 
passengers, who traveled from Huambo to Luanda.
 
Twenty of the wounded were evacuated to hospital units
in Kibala and Dondo, while three people trapped were 
rescued still alive, and 11 --- were uninjured.
 
 
__________________________________
 
 
Unusual downpours... 
flood Kenyan capital 
March 7th, 10:04am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
With unusually heavy rains, one night only - was enough 
to flood a large part of this capital, with the provisional
balance  today, of dozens of fatalities.
 
There is no immediate report from the specialized body 
on the amount of water discharged by the rainfall, but 
it has to be huge, given the amount of territory.. that 
woke up drenched.
 
The preliminary figure of the dead is 23, but the intense search
of likely casualties in progress by the rescuers and the Police
stated the possibility of adding more names of the dead 
with the passing of hours, and receding of the water.
 
In addition to the eastern metropolitan sector, another ten 
districts are under water, namely: Mukuru, Kibra, Mathare, 
information huruma, South B, & C, Embakasi, Roysambu,
Kahawa West and Cithurai --- informs the police force.
 
The same source reported that damage to homes and 
commercial establishments... are not yet quantified, 
but qualify as ''big''.
 
While residents in this city have to wade through their areas 
of residence to move to drier areas, and more to the east in 
Somalia, tens of thousands of people are on the brink of 
famine for a second year of drought that depleted the 
crops and killed livestock.... their main source of 
income and subsistence.
 
The criterion prevalent, is that the caprices of nature are 
a result of climate change ---- caused by the predatory  
economies of the developed countries of the 
industrialized north.
 
 
_______________________


Reliable Bangui: Russia and the Central 
African Republic to Establish a 
Trade Commission
by Alena Nefedova
& Daniel Sechkin
March 5th, 4:20pm
(Izvestia.ru)
 
Russia and the Central African Republic will establish an 
intergovernmental commission for trade and economic 
cooperation, Vladimir Putin said on March 5 during 
talks with the country's leader, Faustin-Archange 
Touadéra. Experts - highlight the potential for 
cooperation, but also point out the country's 
economic challenges, which could hinder 
the implementation of major projects. 
 
The country faces significant energy issues, which the 
government is attempting to address with Russia's 
support. Our instructors are training the local 
army, and this has contributed to the 
successful presidential elections 
held in the country at the end 
of last year.
 
CAR President Fostin-Archange Touadéra, met with Vladimir 
Putin on March 5. The African leader, is a frequent visitor to 
Russia, and this visit is his eighth since coming to power in 
2016. However, this is the first time he has visited Moscow
- since his re-election in late 2025.
 
''Let me, once again, personally congratulate you - on the 
election results. We sincerely wish you success, and, of 
course, the fact that the country's citizens voted for 
you, and you won a convincing victory, shows that, 
in general, people support the policies you are 
pursuing to strengthen the domestic political 
situation, the security situation, and to 
address economic issues,'' 
said Vladimir Putin.
 
The elections in the Central African Republic -- were held on 
December 28, with Tudera winning 76.2% of the vote and a 
52.4% turnout. The African leader thanked Vladimir Putin 
for Moscow's assistance in organizing the elections.
 
"She made these elections possible ---- by ensuring security. 
Russian structures are working on our territory to provide 
us with a safe favourable environment for the elections 
to take place without any problems. This has given 
the people of the Central African Republic a 
chance to choose their own president," 
said Faustin-Archange Touadéra.
 
Russian instructors --- are actively training local military 
personnel. Moscow is also the main supplier of small 
arms, ammunition and armoured vehicles for the 
needs of the CAR army. 
 
The key threat to the country's security is armed insurgent 
and criminal groups that try to establish control over 
certain territories, and attack security forces and 
infrastructure facilities. We are talking about 
such armed groups as the" Coalition of 
Patriots for Change","3R". In 2018, 
representatives of the latter fired 
at a car with Russian journalists 
— all three were killed.
 
The conversation between the presidents was held not only in
 an expanded format with the participation of delegations, but 
also in private at a working lunch. The agenda was quite 
broad: it included security issues, humanitarian aid, 
culture, and, of course, the economy.
 
"As for the economy --- I think that a very timely decision is 
being made, namely the creation of an intergovernmental 
commission that will deal with trade and economic 
relations. In my opinion, we have good prospects 
in the energy sector, agriculture, and 
infrastructure," said 
Vladimir Putin.
 
The situation in the CAR with energy is complicated
 
At their meeting, the presidents discussed cooperation in the
 energy sector. Faustin-Archange Touadéra thanked the 
Russian side for the supply of hydrocarbons.
 
''We have a difficult situation in this area at the moment. Your 
help has helped resolve difficulties in this sector, which is 
important for the economy and for the whole country. Of 
course, during the discussions we will touch upon the 
issues of revolving supply chains (a procurement 
system in which a new purchase order is made, 
even before the previous one is received - Iz.)" 
said Faustin-Arcange Touadera.
 
According to Vsevolod Sviridov, Deputy Director of the Centre 
for African Studies at the Higher School of Economics, the 
energy situation in the Central African Republic is indeed
very difficult: there are few power plants, their capacity 
is low, & the electricity grid infrastructure is outdated. 
However, Russia could already help the country.
 
"In the short term, cooperation is possible through the 
supply of petroleum products, the supply of energy 
equipment, including diesel generators, and 
participation in training and strategy 
development," he said.
 
At the same time, there is no need to talk about large-scale 
energy projects - yet. Moscow and Bangui have been 
discussing issues in this area for almost a decade, 
but no profitable projects have been presented. 
This is because the Central African Republic 
simply does not have the funds to finance 
such projects, and Russia --- cannot 
implement them for free, Sviridov 
explained. 
 
This is also the reason why plans for the construction of a 
small nuclear power plant have not been implemented. 
However, the Central African Republic's ambassador 
to Moscow, Leon Dodonu-Punagaza, previously 
reported to Izvestia that such a project was 
being discussed with Rosatom.
 
In recent years, the Central African Republic has faced serious 
economic problems, including a sharp decline in external aid, 
primarily from France, the former colonial power, according 
to Alexander Shipilov, a researcher at the Institute of 
World History of the Russian Academy of Sciences.
 
"Power outages --- are a problem in many African countries, 
including those that are wealthier than the Central African 
Republic. There are also significant difficulties... with 
external fuel supplies. Russia has agreed to provide 
the country with a free supply of fuel and grain. 
Food security is also a pressing issue in the 
Central African Republic," he explained.
 
Shipilov emphasized that Russia can also supply 
fertilizers to the country or develop the local 
telecommunications industry, for example.
 
"However, given the ongoing difficult economic situation in the 
Central African Republic and the high risks associated with 
operating in this market, it is unlikely that private Russian 
companies will have much interest in this market," 
the expert said.
 
Russia regularly supplies wheat to the Central African 
Republic as humanitarian aid on a gratuitous basis. 
In March 2025, it shipped a batch of turkeys... 
for the first time.
 
Meanwhile, Vladimir Putin noted --- that the Russian Language 
Centre, which has been successfully operating in the Central 
African Republic since the end of 2025, has been promoting 
the Russian language. The Russian leader decided to 
personally thank his colleague for this. Moscow has 
also promised to increase the quota for students 
from the republic to study in the country.
 
 
_______________________________________________
 
 
Nicaragua greets Ghana for the 69th
anniversary of their independence
March 5th, 1:52pm
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The Government of Nicaragua aired, today, their greetings to 
the people and authorities of Ghana - on the occasion of the 
69th anniversary  of the independence of the African nation
....which it commemorated this morning.
 
In a message addressed to president John Dramani Mahama, 
the Nicaraguan Executive -- expressed their congratulations 
on behalf of the people and Government of Reconciliation 
and National Unity.
 
“On behalf of the People and Government of Reconciliation 
& National Unity of the Republic of Nicaragua and in our 
own names, we are honoured to send to you, to your 
Government and the People of the Republic of 
Ghana, our warmest ---- and most sincere 
congratulations”, highlights the letter.
 
The text points out that in this historical date is a tribute to the
determination with which Ghana consolidated its freedom
 in 1957, which marked a new period of national dignity 
and the assertion of sovereignty.
 
He also stressed that this process inspired many peoples of 
Africa and the world --- in their struggles for independence 
and self-determination.
 
The communication also recognises the value of that 
historical legacy and the strength of the national 
Ghanaian identity - who continue to guide the 
efforts of the African country in favour of 
unity, peace, progress and the well-
being of its population.
 
Nicaragua reaffirmed its willingness to continue strengthening
 the bonds of friendship, respect and cooperation with Ghana, 
on the basis of sovereign equality, non-interference in their 
internal affairs ....and the pursuit of shared development, 
with social justice.
 
Receive, dear president, our fraternal embrace and the 
fondness of the people of Nicaragua to the brotherly 
people of Ghana, concluded the message, signed 
by the co-presidents ......Daniel Ortega and 
Rosario Murillo.
 
 
________________________________________
 
 
Cuba and Ethiopia celebrated 48th 
years of the battle of Karramara
March 5th, 1:18pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The anniversary 48 of the battle of Karramara, that contest 
that had sealed with blood the ties between Ethiopia and 
Cuba, convened today, with the representatives of both 
nations to honour their fallen in defense of sovereignty.
 
The Friendship Park Ethiopia-Cuba turned out to be
where the diplomatic mission of state in Cuba, 
associations of Ethiopian graduates, formed
in Havana, former military personnel, family 
members of the fighters who died ---- and 
people in general, paid tribute to those 
who defended the territorial integrity 
of Addis Ababa from expansionist 
Western colonisers.
 
The occasion, as on each march 5, was favourable to the 
deposit of floral offerings to the murals that show the 
portraits printed on bronze plaques of the faces of 
the 163 fighters of the caribbean island who died 
in the war.... in the desert of the Ogaden.
 
The ambassador to Cuba in Ethiopia, Meylin Suárez, noted the 
symbolism of the place and the historical value of the victory
 of Karramara for the relations between the two countries. 
He pointed out that to return to that site is always an 
honour and an opportunity to celebrate more than 
half a century of brotherhood.
 
He stressed that this fact opened a chapter of singular of 
solidarity, marked by the arrival in Cuba of children and 
adolescent Ethiopians who were trained as medical 
doctors, engineers, or teachers, among 
other professions.
 
This vision --- was driven by the historic leader of the Cuban 
Revolution, Fidel Castro, he said, who he described as the 
main promoter of love..... and the collaboration of the 
Caribbean island to Africa, and whose centenary 
of his birth - is commemorated this year.
 
Solidarity, he added, strengthened the humanist spirit  
and internationalism of the Cuban people, values ---- 
that never resign.
 
During the event, the speakers exalted the historical 
significance of Karramara, the role played by the 
fighters of the Caribbean, as well as the validity 
of the bonds of friendship and cooperation 
between the two peoples.
 
 
_____________________________________________


They call to deepen the fight 
against corruption in Angola
March 3rd, 2:12pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of Angola, João Lourenço, called today 
to strengthen the fight against corruption and 
achieve greater speed in processes, during 
the opening of the Judicial Year.
 
The president urged the continuous observance 
of deontological norms by all operators of the 
justice system.
 
“The fight against corruption, impunity and all forms 
of ethical misconduct must remain a priority for 
permanent action, carried out firmly, justice 
and respect for fundamental rights, so that
the independence of the judiciary is not
 limited to an institutional guarantee, 
but also to an ethical requirement 
for each magistrate”, he said.
 
It also meant --- that bad behaviour compromises 
the credibility of the entire justice system and 
weakens citizen trust in public institutions.
 
The head of state advocated for procedural speed 
without conditioning the quality of decisions, and 
specified that the path to faster, more efficient 
justice that is closer to citizens, it is the 
strengthening and qualification of 
human capital.
 
He also mentioned the modernization of services, 
the simplification of procedures, investment in 
digitalization and the improvement of working 
conditions, as well as strengthening the 
culture - of responsibility, organization 
& productivity in judicial institutions.
 
He urged to combat crimes against minors, with greater 
vigour, as well as to strengthen mechanisms to protect 
children's rights against all types of abuse 
and exploitation.
 
Lourenço also asked justice operators for actions to 
prevent and combat acts of vandalism against 
public goods and services, in addition to 
protecting the State and citizens 
from cybercrimes.
 
In this regard, he considered that it is one of the most 
complex challenges today and commented that, in 
the processes related to cybercrime phenomena, 
movable and immovable property was seized, 
as well as monetary values estimated at 
approximately 20 million US dollars.
 
“We continue to face a great challenge: the sophistication 
of criminal organizations, the use of innovative tools, 
manipulation through Artificial Intelligence and the 
transnational nature of digital infrastructures”, 
he noted, and added that this requires a 
continuous effort, in legislative, 
technological and training 
modernization.
 
He called to confront economic crime and seek strategies 
for asset recovery, as a substantive justice mechanism 
whose objective is to eliminate the economic 
advantage derived from illicit activity.
 
In this regard, he asked to intensify cooperation actions 
with Bermuda, Singapore and the Swiss Confederation, 
that worldwide they own nearly two billion US dollars 
that have already been confiscated by Angolan 
courts.. in favour of the State.
 
 
_________________________________________


DRC celebrates US
sanctions 
against
Rwanda
March 3rd, 11:51am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo 
(DRC) celebrated the sanctions announced by the United
 States against the Rwandan Defense Forces (RDF) and
 four of its members commanders, the local press 
reported today.
 
Publications such as Actualité.CD, Radio Okapi and 
Le Pontentiel echoed the statement from the DRC 
Ministry of Communication and Media ---- which 
highlighted the measure by the US Treasury 
Department, through the Office of Foreign 
Assets Control (OFAC).
 
The note considered the sanctions as “a clear signal in 
favour of respect for the sovereignty and territorial 
integrity” of the country, as well as the effective 
implementation of the commitments acquired 
under the Washington Agreements.
 
He added that the measures confirm the need for 
coherence between diplomatic commitments 
and operational reality on the ground.
 
The day before, the United States announced the imposition 
of sanctions against the FDR and 4 senior commanders for 
providing direct operational support to the Congo River 
Alliance-March 23 Movement (M23), therefore, the
 assets of those involved that are under US
 jurisdiction ...were frozen.
 
Additionally --- U.S. citizens and businesses are prohibited 
from transacting with these individuals and institutions.
 
Among the figures included in the measure 
is the Chief of the General Staff of the 
Rwandan Army, Vincent Nyakarundi.
 
Washington considered... that the continued support 
of the FDR and its senior commanders, allowed the 
AFC/M23 to conquer territory in eastern Congo --- 
and continue committing crimes.
 
Rwanda, for its part, expressed regret over the US 
sanctions, which it considers “distort the reality” 
of the conflict and affect “unfairly” a single 
part of the peace process.
 
Kigali accused the DRC of violating ceasefire 
agreements, citing “constant indiscriminate 
drone attacks” and ground offensives 
supported not only by the Congolese 
Army, but by “foreign mercenaries”, 
ethnic extremist militias, and the 
Democratic Forces for the 
Liberation of Rwanda.
 
 
_______________________
 
 
Somali troops --- take 
cities from Islamists, 
according to reports
March 3rd, 10:12am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Somali Army assured today in an official report 
that it evicted its adversaries from the Al Shabab 
group (the Youth, in Arabic) from two cities in
 the south of the country.
 
The specific communication that the offensive had the 
support of Ugandan troops, part of the mixed military
 contingent that also includes, among others, with
 Chad and Cameroon to combat Islamist groups 
settled in the Sahel, the strip of territory that 
extends about a thousand kilometres from
 the Atlantic Ocean --- to the Red Sea.
 
The liberated towns.. are Daarusalaam and Mubarak, in 
the Lower Shabelle region, the military statement said.
 
In recent weeks, the Somali armed forces and allied 
countries have been engaged in an offensive 
against Islamist groups occupying parts of 
the country ---- the most serious security 
problem it faces, along with the recent
separatism of the Somaliland region, 
that lacks regional or international 
recognition and courted by Israel, 
whose government is interested 
in establishing itself in Africa.
 
 
Marco Rubio Suggests Return
 to --- Western Dominance, 
Sparking Fears of Neo-
Colonial Agenda After 
his ''Controversial''
Munich
 Speech
February 2026
(West Africa Weekly)


United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stirred 
intense global debate after delivering a speech at the
 Munich Security Conference that framed colonial 
history in a favourable light ---- and called for 
a renewed Western dominance.
 
Speaking before an audience of European and 
transatlantic leaders, Rubio reflected on the 
history of Western expansion, describing 
the period --- when European and North 
American powers built vast empires 
across the globe. He said Western 
civilisations had once projected 
their influence worldwide and 
shaped global political and 
economic systems.
 
He argued that the decline of Western empires was 
accelerated --- by anti-colonial movements and 
communist revolutions, which he described 
as forces: ''that reshaped global power 
structures'' in the 20th century. 
 
According to Rubio, the West must now confront what 
he called a period of “managed decline” and work 
together ----- to restore its influence.
 
Rubio urged closer cooperation between North America 
and Europe, calling for unity to “renew” what he 
described... as ''the greatest civilisation in
human history.'' His remarks - delivered 
at one of the world’s most prominent 
security forums drew applause from 
parts of the audience -- but quickly 
triggered strong reactions outside 
the conference hall.
 
Many people across Africa, Asia, and Latin America said 
the speech echoed colonial rhetoric and ignored the 
violent legacy of empire. Many commentators 
argued that framing colonial expansion as 
a civilizational achievement overlooks 
centuries of exploitation --- forced 
labour, and economic extraction
 that shaped much of the 
Global South.
 
Rubio’s remarks come at a time when Western powers
 are seeking to strengthen alliances and maintain 
strategic influence in regions rich in natural 
resources and geopolitical importance. 
 
From Africa to Latin America, debates over foreign
 military presence, economic partnerships, and 
control over resources have intensified in 
recent years.
 
The speech also came --- amid growing tensions between the 
Western countries and emerging powers, such as China and
Russia, both of which have expanded their political and
economic footprints in Africa, the Middle East, and 
parts of Asia. In that context, some observers 
interpreted Rubio’s call for Western unity 
as part of a broader effort to counter 
rival influences.
 
The speech symbolised a persistent colonial mindset 
in global politics, in which powerful nations seek to 
maintain dominance over weaker ones.
 
The debate around Rubio’s remarks, highlights deeper 
questions about the future of global power. As former 
colonies ------ assert greater economic and political 
independence, the balance of influence between
 the West and the rest of the world continues..
 to shift.
 
Whether Rubio’s speech will have lasting diplomatic 
consequences ...remains unclear. Still, it has 
reignited --- long-standing debates over 
colonial history, global inequality, 
and the direction of Western 
foreign policy ----- in the 
twenty-first century.

_________________________

 
Gas leak kills 37 miners in Nigeria
February 19th, 10:17am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The escape of poisonous gases in a mine in the central 
state of Plateau caused the death of 37 workers, 
Nigerian Police sources reported today.
 
The accident occurred last Tuesday, but it was only today 
that the authorities reported an ongoing investigation to 
find out the cause of the leaks, what mineral is being
extracted and if the deposit is legal.
 
The miners noticed the beginning of the emissions, but 
continued their work, Alfred Alabo, police spokesman
in the region, said in a statement.
 
In addition to the fatalities, another 26 workers were 
hospitalized - due to lead oxide emissions and other
associated gases eg, sulphur and carbon dioxide, 
the informant suggested.
 
Illegal mining, particularly gold, is another problem facing
 the Nigerian central government, in addition to Islamist 
subversion in the northeastern state of Borno, the 
proliferation of common criminal gangs in the 
south and centre of its territory - and the 
prevailing corruption that plagues the 
official bureaucracy.
 
 
___________________________________
 
 
 
Zimbabwe's ZANU-PF highlights 
historic relations with Cuba
February 19th, 8:33am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Zimbabwe African 
National Union - Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF), Simbarashe 
Mumbengegwi, reiterated today to the Ambassador of 
Cuba, Suselys Perez Mesa, this nation's traditional 
support for the Caribbean island.
 
Upon receiving the Head of Mission at the ZANU-PF 
headquarters, Mumbengegwi highlighted Harare's 
historic bilateral ties and strong stance against 
the more than six-decade US blockade.
 
The Ambassador.. updated the senior leader on the 
intensification of the siege of Washington with the 
executive order of January 29 and the disastrous 
consequences that this entails ---- not only for 
Cuba - but for the international community.
 
Pérez Mesa asserted that the new action has a genocidal 
nature by trying to prevent fuel supplies and that it is 
a part of the aggressive policy of the economic 
commercial and financial war, of the 
US administration.
 
At the same time, he highlighted the resilience of the 
Cuban people and their determination to never give 
up, as well as the support received by the island 
of nations, parties and organizations.... from 
all continents.
 
Representatives of the Zimbabwe Foreign Ministry, ZANU-
PF and the Minister Counselor of the Caribbean nation, 
Luis Enrique González Acosta, all participated in 
the exchange.
 
 
__________________________________________
 
 

Türkiye highlights mutual respect and 
equality in its policy towards Africa
February 19th, 8:32am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of Türkiye, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, affirmed 
today.... that mutual respect and equal cooperation 
constitute the guiding principles of Ankara's 
policy towards Africa.
 
In statements to the press aboard the presidential plane, 
after concluding an official visit to Ethiopia, the 
president -- responded to questions about 
Türkiye's role in promoting peace and 
unity in African countries, & about 
the international support for 
these initiatives.
 
Erdogan maintained that the Eurasian nation maintains a 
relationship based on brotherhood and friendship with 
African peoples. We consider the people of Africa 
as our brothers and friends, he expressed.
 
He added ---- that Türkiye's growing presence on the 
continent is due to its history, which he described 
as “impeccable”. Mutual respect & collaboration 
on equal terms are the guiding and unwavering 
principles of our policy towards Africa, 
he stated.
 
The head of state assured, that Ankara does not approach 
African affairs from a selfish or biased perspective, and 
he highlighted --- that the positive perception of his 
country in the region strengthens the success 
of its humanitarian diplomacy and its 
mediation efforts.
 
In relation to the objectives of Turkish policy after the 
opening of numerous embassies and investments on 
the continent, Erdogan noted that the purpose is to 
expand and deepen cooperation in all areas, 
especially trade and investment.
 
He indicated that the number of Turkish embassies in 
Africa increased to 44, compared to 12 in 2002. 
In turn, 38 African embassies currently 
operate in Ankara.
 
The president highlighted ---- that Turkish contractors 
executed more than two thousand projects in Africa, 
valued at approximately 100 billion dollars, while 
Türkiye's investments in the continent exceed
 15 billion.
 
Likewise, he mentioned that tens of thousands of African 
students study at Turkish universities and that many of 
their graduates occupy relevant positions in different 
sectors in their countries of origin.
 
Erdogan reiterated that Ankara's strategy aims to 
consolidate a comprehensive partnership with 
Africa, based on reciprocal cooperation and
shared development.
 
 
_________________________________________



Tourism development
focuses 
meetings of the president 
of Angola
February 18th, 11:50am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of Angola, Joao Lourenco, received today 
the head of JIH Global Group, Mohamed Ali Janah, and 
the president of the UIM E1 World Championship 
Organization, Alejandro Agag, with whom he 
spoke about the development of tourism.
 
The JIH Global Group, based in Dubai, is a multinational 
that operates in the real estate, hospitality and resort 
equipment sectors, among others, hence, the 
dialogue revolved around investment 
prospects in the country.
 
Janah told the press at the end of the meeting that the 
president demonstrated a lot of knowledge about the 
national tourism potential, particularly its extensive 
coastline and natural conditions.
 
He noted that the company and its partners will carry 
out technical studies to identify specific investment 
opportunities and ways to expand tourism in the 
country, as well as assess elements such as 
the business environment.
 
However, he said that there are attractions such as 
Angola's wide coastline, approximately 1,600 kms 
long, the favourable water temperatures and the 
possibility... of developing both coastal and
inland tourism, & the youthful population.
 
He considered the meeting with the president as 
an invitation to get to know the country better 
and to explore investment opportunities.
 
Angola could host a stage of the World Electric Boat 
Championship in September of this year, according 
the Angolan head of state and Alejandro Agag.
 
Agag told the press that this “will be an opportunity to 
continue promoting local tourism” and explained that 
formal negotiations have begun and they hope to 
conclude the necessary agreements in the 
coming weeks.
 
  He added that Luanda's election ----- is also part of the 
country's ambitious program to promote the sector
by 
attracting high-level international events, and
without a doubt, hosting a stage of the 
championship.. would make Angola 
more visible.. as a destination.
 
 
_____________________________________
 
 

Somalia offers forgiveness
to Islamists 
who lay down
their arms
February 18th, 11:37am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Members of the Islamist group Al Shabab (The Youth, in 
Arabic) who lay down their arms will be amnestied and
 rehabilitated, Somali President Sheikh Mohamud 
announced today.
 
We will continue operations while prioritizing efforts 
to reintegrate into society those who abandon that 
formation: its people need them, it essentially 
underlines the presidential message spread 
through social networks on the occasion 
of the start of Ramadan.
 
For Muslims, Ramadan is the holy month that believers
 in that confession dedicate to fasting, prayer and 
helping the most disadvantaged.
 
The president's exhortation coincides with the increase 
in the military offensive, with air support from Türkiye, 
which has been effective in attacks on sanctuaries 
and insurgent operations, the main enemy of the 
Somali central government, which also has to 
fight separatism in the Somaliland region.
 
 
_____________________________________________


 
UN supports Madagascar
after storms
February 18th, 9:25am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Teams from the United Nations work today together with 
the Government of Madagascar to confront the damage 
caused by Storm Gezani, which left more than 50 dead 
and hundreds injured.
 
Through its official website, the UN confirmed that 
its agencies deployed additional personnel... and 
provided food, water, medical care and shelter,
and  other essential services, to the
affected people.
 
He also reported that --- after evaluation, it is estimated 
that some 49 million dollars are necessary to support 
382 thousand victims due to the impact of Gezani
 and another weather phenomenon recorded at 
the end of January (Fytia).
 
Recently, the UN Children's Fund warned that at least 
6,000 children are among the displaced and almost 
29,000 cannot attend schools.
 
In addition, he pointed out that many families had 
to move to shelters, because their houses were 
damaged or destroyed.
 
Many lost their homes, which is a deeply distressing 
experience for children. Essential services such as 
drinking water, medical care, protection, and 
schooling --- were also interrupted, said the 
representative of the UN Children's Fund 
Christine Jaulmes.
 
Likewise, she assured, that they work with 
the Government of Madagascar, to return 
to normality and reduce any risks, for 
the children.
 
 
_____________________________________


 Organization of Namibia positions itself 
against sanctions against Cuba
February 17th, 12:58pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Sam Nujoma Namibia Foundation took a position, 
through a statement, against the recent measures 
approved by the Trump Administration to try to 
strangle the Cuban economy, the island's 
Foreign Ministry reported today.
 
In the document, Nahas Angula, president of the 
foundation, expressed his deep concern about 
the escalation of coercive measures, which 
he described as an existential threat to 
the survival of the nation.
 
«Cuba today faces a humanitarian crisis caused by human 
beings. Reports indicate an imminent energy emergency 
driven by Washington's punitive strategies against the 
socialist nation», he said.
 
«The new tariff framework announced against Cuban oil 
suppliers, added to a declaration of national emergency, 
constitutes a direct attack on Cuba with profound 
implications for trade, diplomacy and regional
 stability», he added.
 
Likewise, he described the situation on the island --- as 
«unprecedented» and cited the UN Secretary General, 
António Guterres, when he warned about «a possible 
humanitarian collapse ------- if Cuba's energy needs 
remain unmet».
 
«This is not an abstract political debate. Hospitals are 
running out of fuel, medical supplies are delayed and 
ordinary citizens bear the burden of these inhumane 
measures every day», the statement dictates.
 
In conclusion, the organization demanded justice, equity 
and equal treatment between nations. It also warned 
the world of this dangerous precedent for the 
international community, alleging that 
delayed justice is denied justice -
and that it cannot wait.
 
 
___________________________________



Malian Army carries out 
important operation 
against Islamists
February 17th, 12:57pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Malian authorities said today they had destroyed an 
important armed Islamist group in a region in the 
centre of the country, although the organization 
to which it belonged was not specified.
 
According to military sources, the operation was 
considered major and numerous Islamist troops 
in the Segú area were neutralized.
 
In a military statement published on social networks, 
it was said that the actions took place in Nampala, 
including the towns of Toulé and Akoub, and 
weapons and ammunition were seized, as
 well as communications equipment.
 
A few days ago, the Malian Army announced that it had 
put some 35 suspected Islamists out of action also 
around the city of Segú, northeast of Bamako.
 
The so-called Support Group for Islam and Muslims (Jnim), 
the affiliate of Al Qaeda in the Sahel, operates in this 
country, that has carried out attacks on fuel 
transportation in the surroundings of this 
capital, in the midst of a blockade 
policy -------- to try to hinder fuel 
supply routes to the country.
 
Mali also faces the coalition of Tuareg groups, known as 
Berbers, determined to achieve the separation of the 
northern region from the rest of the country 
to create an independent state.
 
Nation of the Sahel, Mali lives mired in a deep political 
crisis, which has increased -- after successive coups 
d'état that occurred in August 2020 and May 2021.
 
 
____________________________________________________
 
 
 
Ethiopia asked Türkiye for support
 for peaceful access to the sea
February 17th, 12:57pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed today asked the president of 
Türkiye, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, to support Ethiopia's 
efforts to ensure peaceful access to the sea 
during a joint press conference at the 
National Palace.
 
After holding official bilateral talks, Ahmed emphasized 
that maintaining the country's rapid economic growth 
requires resolving structural bottlenecks, 
particularly in logistics and 
maritime access.
 
He noted that Ethiopia, with a population of more than 130
 million, has remained landlocked for decades contrary to 
global economic trends, a situation he described.... as 
historically unfair.
 
“The sustainability of our growth cannot be guaranteed - if 
a nation of more than 130 million people continues to be 
denied access to the sea - and remains a geographical 
prisoner. Such a reality goes against prevailing global 
practices and contemporary economic trends”, 
he stressed.
 
He revealed that during the talks they addressed how 
friendly nations like Ankara can play a constructive 
diplomatic role in supporting Ethiopia's quest to 
gain access to the sea .....through peaceful 
and mutually beneficial means.
 
He emphasized that logistics continues to be one of the 
biggest obstacles to national development, and that 
access to the sea is key to unlocking the full 
economic potential of the African country. 
 
In this regard, he thanked Erdogan 
for his participation on the issue.
 
Moreover, both leaders agreed - to increase bilateral trade 
to at least $1 billion and beyond, by diversifying business 
sectors and encouraging more Turkish companies to 
invest in Ethiopia, both for the domestic market 
and for export to Africa.
 
On the subject, Ahmed highlighted that they are among 
the fastest growing economies globally and expect an 
increase of 10.2 percent this fiscal year.
 
Other agreements were linked to strengthening 
cooperation in the fight against terrorism and 
deepening collaboration..... on multilateral 
platforms, including climate diplomacy, 
as Türkiye prepares to host the 
Climate Change Conference 
of the Parties this year, 
and Ethiopia in 2027.
 
For his part, Erdogan stated that cooperation in railway 
and transportation infrastructure, factories, tourism 
facilities and power transmission lines ...will 
continue to expand.
 
He stated ----- that Türkiye attaches great importance to 
promoting its long-standing relations with the friendly 
people of Ethiopia, and congratulated Ahmed on the 
political, social and economic transformation 
of Ethiopia.
 
He underlined the growing importance of Addis Ababa in 
the Horn of Africa, as well as confidence that his visit 
would contribute to regional peace and stability.
 
 
 
___________________________________________________
 


Leaders of Algeria and Niger agree 
to turn the page on the dispute
February 17th, 12:04pm
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The meeting, the day before here, of the Algerian 
president, Abdel Majid Tebboune.... and his 
counterpart from the Nigerien provisional 
government, Abdourahamane Tiani, 
marked the announcement - of a 
new dynamic in bilateral ties - 
in line with statements from 
both released today.
 
As a tangible result of the meeting, the Algerian president 
announced the construction of a gas pipeline that will 
support the Nigerien government in its social and 
economic development plans.
 
Last week, both governments decided to return their 
ambassadors to the respective missions in Niamey 
and this capital, after months of calling them for 
consultation, the lowest step in 
diplomatic relations.
 
The dispute broke out -- when Algeria shot down a drone 
from Mali, a country that with Niger and Burkina Faso 
is part of the Alliance of Sahel States, created after 
the three... left the Economic Community of West 
African States because they considered it too 
attached to the interests of the European 
colonial powers and the United States.
 
Although Niger and Burkina Faso decided to relegate the 
incident to oblivion, Mali remains reluctant to do so,
 although they will presumably act as mediators 
between the parties.
 
 
 
________________________________________________
 
 
 
US military contingent 
arrives in Nigeria
February 17th, 11:58am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
A contingent of about 100 US soldiers arrived in Nigeria 
under the pretext of fighting Islamist groups operating 
in this country, military sources reported here today.
 
In recent times, President Donald Trump has accused the 
Nigerian government ...of not taking enough action to 
eliminate these factions, which has been denied by 
authorities in Abuja. Meanwhile, the United States 
intensifies its military presence in the 
African country.
 
The Nigerian Government denied any type of 
discrimination against any religion, and 
noted that its armed forces combat 
all armed groups that attack both 
Christians and Muslims.
 
Recently, US military aircraft have arrived in the northern 
states of Nigeria carrying troops and combat equipment, 
although Nigerian army spokesman General Samaila 
Uba, has said that the function of these troops.. is 
only training.
 
Nigeria is territory where Islamist factions such as Boko 
Haram operate, established since 2002 in Borno state 
(northeast) and which --- in 2015 --- changed its 
allegiance from the Al Qaeda network to
 the Islamic State. 
 
In addition to its attacks on military bases and against
 central government officials, it extends its actions to 
Chad, Niger, Mali and northern Cameroon.
 
 
_______________________________________________
 
 
 
Jesse Jackson, the friend who 
will always remember Africa
February 17th, 11:54am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud 
Ali Youssouf, highlighted the activism in favour of the
anti
-colonial and anti-apartheid movements of the
US 
Reverend Jesse Jackson, who died today,
at the age of 84.
 
Youssouf, in a statement, described Jackson.. as an 
imposing figure whose life's work resonated deeply 
with historical and current struggles on the 
continent for justice, dignity, equality 
and liberation.
 
He stressed ----- that the defense that he carried out for 
decades of civil rights, economic justice and political 
inclusion... was closely aligned with the African 
Union's mandate --- to promote human rights, 
combat racial discrimination and advance
 the global African agenda, including the
 recognition of the diaspora --- as the 
Sixth Region of the continent.
 
He acknowledged his long-standing drive ----- for a strong, 
interconnected relationship between African Americans 
and Africa. He popularized the term «African American» 
in the 1980s, helping to affirm identity, heritage and 
historical consciousness among people of African
 descent, he said.
 
“He consistently viewed the diaspora not only as a 
cultural community, but as a vital economic and 
political partner for Africa's development and 
global influence”, the text emphasized.
 
He recalled Jackson's words and actions when he said 
that the Atlantic Ocean was not a divide, but a bridge 
connecting people united by history, resilience and 
shared aspirations. He advocated overcoming a 
legacy of neglect towards mutually beneficial 
collaboration between Africa..... and its 
diaspora, he continued.
 
The president of the Commission also noted ------ that the 
US reverend provided moral support to the fight against 
apartheid, contributing to the broad international 
mobilization that dismantled institutionalized 
racial segregation in Southern Africa.
 
He assured... that his calls for equity in global governance, 
inclusive economic systems and restorative justice, fully 
coincide with the contemporary priorities of the African 
Union, including restorative justice for the historical 
injustices of slavery, colonialism, among others.
 
“The life of the Reverend Jesse Jackson.... reflected the 
inseparable link between Africa and its diaspora. Their 
unwavering commitment to justice and human dignity 
strengthened the pan-African vision and promoted 
the shared pursuit of decolonization, equality 
and reparations”, Youssouf asserted.
 
He conveyed his sincere condolences to the family, the 
Government and people of the United States and the 
international civil rights community.
 
Finally, he stated that Jesse Jackson's legacy will endure 
as part of the collective history of resistance, solidarity 
and the continued realization of the unity of Africa 
and its global destiny.
 
 
_______________________________________________
 
 
 
President of Ethiopia mourned
 ..the death of Jesse Jackson
February 17th, 11:17am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
President Taye Atske-Selassie today mourned the death of 
the US reverend Jesse Jackson at the age of 84, whom 
he defined as a true friend of Ethiopia and Africa.
 
«It is with great sadness that we learn of the passing of 
Rev. Jesse Jackson, a great leader and true friend of 
Ethiopia and Africa. We will be eternally grateful to 
him for supporting and defending Ethiopia in its 
pursuit of global development and justice», 
Selassie wrote.... on his X social 
network account.
 
Jackson, who is considered here... to have paved the way 
for Barack Obama to become the first African-American 
president to reach the White House, had been facing
degenerative neurological disease for years. In 
November, he was hospitalized and remained 
under observation due to the progressive 
supranuclear palsy he suffered from.
 
He achieved national notoriety in the 1960s - he was 
close to Martin Luther King Jr. - and his career is 
marked by defending racial equality, economic 
justice and voting rights.
 
In 1971, he founded Operation PUSH as a way to improve 
the economic conditions of the country's black 
communities and -- in 1984 -- launched the 
National Rainbow Coalition... but about 
12 years later the two merged to give 
rise to the Rainbow PUSH Coalition.
 In July 2023, he announced his 
retirement as president.
 
Jackson was a candidate in the Democratic Party 
presidential primary in 1984 and 1988 and 
served as a de facto senator for the 
District of Columbia, from 1991 
to 1997.
 
 
______________________________________________
 


Workers' strike ends at 
Kenyan capital airport
February 17th, 11:15am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
A 48-hour strike carried out by workers at Kenya's main 
airport, demanding higher wages and better working 
conditions, it ended here today.
 
Kenya's capital air terminal, Jomo Kenyatta, is considered 
one of the most important in Africa, due to the volume of 
passengers leaving and entering through its facilities.
 
According to eyewitnesses, the strike caused 
disruptions to local and international flights 
and air traffic control operations.
 
For its part, the Airports Authority said the Kenya Aviation 
Workers Union (Kawu) agreed to return to work after 
mediation by the government and other officials, 
local sources highlighted this on Tuesday. No 
information was given about the 
agreement reached.
 
In 2024, workers at that air terminal went on strike to 
protest a government plan to give India's Adani 
Group a tender to expand the airport.
 
The organization then said the deal would leave many 
workers unemployed and deprive taxpayers of higher 
profits. Such an agreement was later cancelled.
 
 
____________________________________________
 
 
 
Ethiopia and Türkiye --- 
strengthened bilateral 
ties and cooperation
February 17th, 11:11am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Leaders of Ethiopia and Türkiye held official talks today 
to strengthen bilateral relations and presided over the 
signing of memorandums of understanding on 
economic and energy matters.
 
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed -------- regarding the 
dialogue with Turkish President Recep Tayyip ErdoÄŸan, 
revealed on his X social network account - that they 
reinforced the long-standing friendship and strong 
cooperation - that underpins relations between 
Addis Ababa and Ankara.
 
“We exchanged views on strategic areas of collaboration 
and reaffirmed our mutual commitment ---- to fostering 
alliances that benefit the interests of both nations”, 
Ahmed wrote.
 
He expressed confidence that continued collaboration will 
further strengthen the ties that unite the two countries.
 
Subsequently, both leaders chaired the signing of 
memoranda of understanding on the Agreed 
Minutes of the IX Türkiye-Ethiopia Joint 
Economic Commission and another 
on Energy Cooperation.
 
These agreements, the Office of the African Head of 
Government stressed, consolidate the growing 
bilateral collaboration and underline the 
determination of both nations... to 
promote collaboration in areas 
of mutual interest.
 
ErdoÄŸan arrived in Addis Ababa this Tuesday on an 
official working visit and was received by Ahmed 
at Bole International Airport. He then laid a 
wreath at the Adwa Victory Memorial in 
tribute to the heroes who sacrificed 
their lives ------ for the freedom 
of Ethiopia.
 
 
________________________________




Drone attack massacres 
crowd in Sudan
February 16th, 1:02pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Even at noon today, paramedics and volunteers are 
working to rescue and transfer to hospitals those 
killed and injured by the attack the day before 
against a popular market in the central 
Kordofan region.
 
The wave of drones flooded the sky over a popular 
market in the town of Al-Safiya - at the busiest 
time ----- and fired air-to-ground rockets and 
explosive devices, witnesses reported.
 
The attack, whose responsibility remains anonymous,
 immediately caused 28 deaths and a number of 
injuries ---- that reports from the area put 
at “dozens”.
 
The Kordofan region, is the scene of fighting between 
the Army, loyal to the Sovereign Transitional Council, 
and the Rapid Support Forces militia.
 
The civil war between both contenders, which turns 
3 years old next April, and within which, outside
influences rejoice --- has caused the largest 
refugee crisis in modern history ----- some 
14 million displaced people, and around 
24 thousand dead and injured and the 
devastation of this northeastern 
African country.
 
 
________________________________
 
 
 
African leaders highlight
historical ties with Cuba
February 16th, 12:53pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Former president of the African Union Commission 
Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma and former Nigerian 
president Olusegun Obasanjo, highlighted 
the ties of friendship and cooperation 
between Africa and Cuba, the 
Embassy of the Caribbean 
island in Ethiopia..... 
revealed today.
 
Dlamini-Zuma, a prominent South African leader who led
the continental organization between 2012 and 2017, 
conveyed a message of firm solidarity with the 
Cuban people, highlighting the deep historic 
ties of mutual support that have united 
both nations ---- for decades
 
In conversations with Cuba's ambassadors to Ethiopia 
and the African Union, Meylin Suarez and Lucas 
Domingo Hernández, respectively, she noted 
that in times of greater challenges, the
solidarity between peoples ----- must 
be strengthened.. and expressed, 
more clearly.
 
She reaffirmed that Cuba is not alone and has the sincere
friendship of Africa, recognizing the role played by the 
Caribbean nation ---- in the struggles for freedom,
 justice and development on the continent.
 
Dlamini-Zuma also held important responsibilities 
throughout her career, including Minister of 
Foreign Affairs, Health, among other
important responsibilities.
 
On the other hand, Obasanjo highlighted the historic 
brotherhood between Cuba and Africa within the 
framework of the 39th Ordinary Session of the 
Assembly of the African Union (AU).... held 
last weekend in this capital.
 
 
________________________________________________
 
 
 
Somali Army claims 
Islamist casualties
February 16th, 10:39am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Members of the Islamist group Al Shabab were surprised
 by the Somali Army and killed when they tried to mine 
a bridge in the Lower Shabelle region (south), states
 an official report released today by the press.
 
The operation took place last weekend and had the 
support of allied forces, says the communication, 
which refrains from identifying the identity or 
form of that cooperation.
 
However, it is assumed... that these are aerial means 
deployed by Türkiye in this country, fighter-bombers 
and combat helicopters, to cooperate in the 
eradication of the Islamist group.
 
At the meeting, the 15 insurgents who were working on 
mining the bridge - were annihilated, according to the
military report.
 
The Somali central government ------- is engaged in an 
offensive against the actions of the insurgents of Al 
Shabab (The Youth, in Arabic) loyal to the Al Qaeda 
network, founded in Afghanistan by the late Saudi
-Yemeni millionaire, Osama bin Laden, with the 
logistical support and training of US/UK 
special services in the 1980s --- and 
operating now, in the south and 
southeast of Somalia.
 
 
_____________________________
 
 

Africa on its way.. to becoming 
--- an engine of global growth
February 16th, 9:29am
(Prensa Latina) 


Africa - is emerging as the next engine of global growth, 
driven by its young workforce, expanding markets and 
accelerating digital transformation, an official source 
stated today.
 
The executive secretary of the UN Economic 
Commission for Africa (ECA), Claver Gatete, 
opening the Ninth Africa Business Forum, 
said global capital remains available but 
is increasingly selective.. flowing into 
regions -------- that offer scale, future 
markets, and long-term demand.
 
According to Gatete, the continent is uniquely 
positioned ------- to provide these conditions.
 
«Growth will emerge.... where the world's youngest 
workforce lives, where urbanization accelerates, 
where digital adoption expands and where new 
consumer markets form», he stressed --- when 
describing Africa --- as a continent where 
economic transformation.... is 
already underway.
 
He cited the African Continental Free Trade Area 
(AfCFTA) as a key driver of change.. creating a 
single market of more than 1.5 billion people, 
while digital platforms, and startup eco-
systems (emerging companies) ...now
expand throughout the continent.
 
However, he recognized structural obstacles, that limit 
the transformation, such as a large financing gap and 
the persistence of illicit financial flows. At the same 
time, he revealed that Africa owns more than $1.1 
trillion in national institutional capital through 
pension funds, insurance funds, and 
sovereign assets.
 
“The paradox is not the lack of capital, it is the lack of 
mechanisms that connect capital with financeable 
projects”, he asserted.
 
The ECA Executive Secretary stated ----- that the African 
Business Forum is designed as a platform to move from 
commitments to implementation, by linking investors 
to viable projects --- and tracking progress through 
concrete mechanisms.
 
He highlighted Africa's strategic position, in the ongoing 
global economic reorganization - particularly in green 
energy, digitalization and resilient supply chains, 
noting that they possess crucial minerals, 
data potential, and human capital.
 
To accelerate large-scale investment, he cited ----- as 
priority actions, the mobilization of national capital 
...through innovative financial instruments; the
strengthening of African credit ratings and 
capital markets -- to reduce borrowing 
costs; & fully implementing AfCFAT 
--- to boost regional value chains.
 
Finally, he assured... that the ECA is willing to support 
Member States and partners through policy analysis, 
convening power and implementation alliances, to 
translate commitments ----- into jobs, large-scale 
businesses, and funded value chains.
 
 
______________________________________


 
Angola.. passed presidency of
 the African Union to Burundi
February 14th, 10:51am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of Angola, João Lourenço, today handed over the 
presidency of the African Union to the head of state of Burundi, 
Évariste Ndayishimiye, who will serve until February 2027.
 
During the ceremony, held in the main plenary hall of the AU 
headquarters, known as the Nelson Mandela Hall, the 
Angolan president congratulated the incoming head 
of the continental organization and wished him 
success in this “worthy mission ----- at the 
service of Africa”.
 
“His Excellency's unanimous election is a recognition by all of us 
that the African Union, for the next twelve months, will be led by 
a high-calibre statesman, which constitutes a solid guarantee
 that he will know how to look after our common interests 
and objectives”, said Lourenço.
 
He added that in 2026 the AU chose a crucial issue for the continent,
 which consists of ''Ensuring the Sustainable Availability
of Water 
and Safe Sanitation Systems.''
 
“Access to clean water and sanitation systems is a moral and 
political imperative -- that requires a strong commitment from 
governments and their local partners, namely ---- businesses, 
civic associations and communities”, said the 
Angolan president.
 
He added that Africa will be much better prepared to solve 
this serious problem ------- if there is a concerted effort.
 
“You will face a complex and demanding mission that will absorb 
much of your energy and time”, he assured and stated that this 
effort is worth it ---------- for what these solutions represent for 
Africans ----- and to definitively break the cycle of 
underdevelopment.
 
Lourenço --- recognized the great work of the African Union 
Commission, its president, the technicians and the entire 
work team - those who came together for the cause of 
restoring dignity and defining a horizon of visible and
 concrete progress and development for Africa and 
its future.
 
“I know that all African nations look at it with renewed hope of 
seeing it continue with dynamism ----- the programs that we 
ourselves have outlined, but I am convinced that each of 
our countries will spare no effort to support him and 
make essential contributions to the success of 
his mission”, he concluded.
 
 
 
___________________________________
 
 
 
Ethiopia strengthens bilateral relations - 
on the sidelines of the 39th AU Summit
February 14th, 8:12am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, continued bilateral
 talks with African leaders today, on the sidelines of the 39th 
African Union Summit, to strengthen cooperation and 
debate issues of common interest.
 
Ahmed met with the President of the Democratic Republic of the 
Congo, Félix Tshisekedi, to explore new areas of collaboration 
and leverage Addis Ababa's existing aviation partnership.
 
He also spoke with Liberian President Joseph Boakai of Liberia 
about technology, artificial intelligence ....and local plans to 
establish a continental artificial intelligence university.
 
The Ethiopian head of government's agenda during the day 
included meetings with his Senegalese counterpart, 
Ousmane Sonko, the presidents of Somalia, 
Hassan Sheikh Mohamud; of the 
Presidential Council of Libya, 
Mohamed Menfi; and from 
Botswana, Duma 
Gideon Boko.
 
With the latter, to analyze bilateral relations, regional 
issues, opportunities for greater economic 
cooperation... and exchanges on the 
training of the next generation 
of African leaders.
 
 
_____________________________________
 
 
 
AFC/M23 rebels..
accept ceasefire
in DRC
February 14th, 6:04am
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The rebels of the Congo River Alliance-March 23 Movement 
(AFC/M23) accepted the ceasefire with the Government of 
the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), proposed 
by Angola for noon on February 18.
 
Through a statement signed by Deputy Coordinator Corneille 
Nangaa, published today by Actualité.CD, the insurgents 
expressed their commitment to “implement, without 
delay and in good faith, the mechanism agreed 
upon within the framework of the Doha” 
process, but they also accused 
Kinshasa of fragmenting 
peace initiatives.
 
They added that the AFC/M23 response reflects a sense of political 
responsibility and a sincere desire to achieve a negotiated, lasting 
and inclusive solution to the conflict; while the DRC Government 
assumes a “diplomatic fragmentation strategy”, characterized 
by the proliferation of parallel frameworks and initiatives, 
outside of a centralized and consensual process.
 
“This approach undermines the coherence of mediation efforts, 
weakens the credibility of the commitments made and risks 
delaying the emergence of a serious and lasting political 
solution”, he said.
 
He pointed out that there is a clear contradiction between the 
announcement of adherence to the call for a ceasefire, when 
acts of belligerence persist on the ground, marked by 
offensives against densely populated areas, the use 
of mercenaries and indiscriminate bombings that 
affect civilian populations, he stressed.
 
“For AFC/M23, kinshasa's alleged acceptance of the ceasefire 
principle is nothing more than a public relations maneuver 
and an attempt at manipulation to deceive national and 
international public opinion , evade its responsibilities 
and mask the continuation of a decidedly militaristic 
strategy”, the statement stated.
 
Likewise, he expressed concern about the attitude of the president
of Burundi, Évariste Ndayishimiye, who will be the next president 
of the African Union........ who he accused of contributing to the 
persistence of violence against Banyamulenge communities.
 
We urge the international community and continental institutions to 
fully assume their responsibilities through constant vigilance to 
prevent any escalation and avoid a worsening of ethnic 
tensions and the humanitarian crisis in the region, 
the rebels said.
 
 
___________________________________________
 
 
 
Angola calls for extraordinary
 summit on security in Africa
February 14th, 5:32am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of Angola, João Lourenço, today ---- called an 
extraordinary summit of heads of State and Government 
of the continent, dedicated to peace and security.
 
The president, during the opening of the 39th Conference of 
Heads of State and Government of the organization, invited 
everyone to meet in Luanda this year to discuss ways and 
means to respond to threats to the peace, security and 
development of the continent.
 
“I am convinced ---- that this initiative can contribute strongly to 
strengthening conflict prevention, management and resolution 
mechanisms and means in Africa”, he maintained and 
expressed concern about the emergence of a new 
way of executing changes in the constitutional 
order of the States ---- that should not 
be legitimized.
 
He referred to the seizure of power by force and then the holding of 
elections to supposedly restore constitutional order, but where 
the same violators of order are elected, which in his opinion 
is a form of whitening of the previous actions.
 
He warned that this practice is beginning to be seen as normal, 
something that should not happen because it threatens the 
principles of the continent and can indirectly encourage 
coups d'état and then whitewash them ----- without 
any reactions.
 
He highlighted that the promotion of peace and security in Africa 
was at the centre of the action of the Angolan presidency of the 
AU, which is now coming to an end, and he reaffirmed that the
desired vision of the continent ---- will only be possible... if 
weapons can be silenced.
 
He called for a collective effort to find quick, robust and effective 
solutions to end the protracted conflicts challenging the 
continent's stability, terrorism and violent extremism, 
as well as unconstitutional changes 
of governments.
 
He referred to continued actions to resolve the intricate conflicts 
in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the 
first amid intensifying confrontations between the Sudanese 
Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, that have 
plunged the country into a deep humanitarian crisis 
with thousands of dead and displaced.
 
He also drew attention to the expansion of terrorist groups in several 
countries such as Burkina Faso, Nigeria and Somalia, the latter had
an impact, on all regions of the Horn of Africa and Southern Africa, 
which is why he requested greater support for the peace mission.


[Rhondda Records adds: we take his points - and add
that he appears to forget that his own country was
forced to fight --- to first expel the West's forces.
Should we despise a ladder's bottom rung
when we are on a higher step?]
 
 
___________________________________________



Madagascar asks for 
global help after
 the cyclone
February 13th, 2:40pm
 (Prensa Latina) 
 
The devastation caused by Cyclone Gezani as it passed through 
Madagascar today forced the authorities of this African island 
country to ask for international help to heal the wounds.
 
The first death toll rises to 20 ------ but the
search for missing people is still ongoing.
 
The most severe attack was suffered by the city of Tomasina, but it 
was not the only one, since the neighbouring region of Atsinanana 
was also shaken by the brute force of the storm, which is already 
being felt in Mozambique -- from where heavy downpours and 
inclement winds are reported that caused human victims, 
according to the first investigations, and destruction 
of houses and crops.
 
The number of destroyed homes in Tomasina ------ amounts to 18 
thousand, to which another 50 thousand are added damaged or 
flooded, according to the first report from the Office of Risk and 
Disaster Management, issued on a provisional basis, since the 
census of the destruction is not yet complete.
 
The arrival of aid to the victims is prevented by the waters left 
by the brutal climate phenomenon, a kind of curse that 
plagues countries in southeastern Africa every year.
 
Incredible as it may seem ----- telecommunications 
proved unscathed by the storm's destructive fury.
 
 
______________________________________
 
 
UA Commission -- is committed to
a balanced association with Italy
February 13th, 2:06pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The African Union (AU) Commission today reaffirmed its willingness 
to work with the Italian Government and other partners - to ensure 
that the partnership with Africa is a balanced and future-oriented 
cooperation model.
 
The president of the AU Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, 
speaking at the opening of the Second Italy-Africa Summit, 
said that this link must be anchored in the continent's 
long-term development plan, Agenda 2063 and 
aligned with continental frameworks.
 
Youssouf noted that the summit was held in Addis Ababa, for the 
first time on African soil, on the sidelines of the 39th Assembly, 
the African organization emphasizes a shared responsibility 
with structured and sustained commitment.
 
“Africa's partnerships must align with the continent's priorities 
and Agenda 2063 and be based on mutual respect, shared 
responsibility and measurable impact”, he stressed.
 
Furthermore, he welcomed the growing momentum of the Italy-
Africa partnership, highlighting the Mattei Plan as a sign of 
deeper cooperation in strategic sectors, including 
infrastructure, energy, agriculture, health, 
digital connectivity, and water.
 
He emphasized that infrastructure remains fundamental to 
Africa's transformation and must be aligned with key 
continental initiatives, such as the Program for 
Infrastructure Development and the African 
Continental Free Trade Area.
 
“Investments in transport corridors, energy interconnections 
& digital networks.. must strengthen trade, industrialization 
and competitiveness within Africa”, he stressed.
 
He mentioned the need to go beyond raw material exports, 
calling for partnerships... that support value addition, 
industrial capacity, technology transfer and skills 
development, particularly for young Africans.
 
“Such investments will create decent jobs, foster innovation and 
address the structural drivers of poverty and instability”, he said.
 
Referring to the AU Year theme, Youssouf welcomed the focus 
on water and sanitation, describing them as fundamental to 
public health, food security, education, gender equality, 
and climate resilience.
 
He concluded that the summit provides the opportunity to 
define “a practical and coherent roadmap for the next 
phase of cooperation between Italy and Africa”.
 
 
_______________________________________
 
 
 
Africa and Italy must make more use 
of their potential, says Angola
February 13th, 2:06pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The president of Angola and incumbent of the African Union (AU), 
João Lourenço, considered today that Africa and Italy have a 
convergence of interests that must make the most of the 
potential of both parties.
 
When speaking at the second Italy-Africa Summit, in which the 
Prime Minister of the European country, Giorgia Meloni, was 
present, the president highlighted the importance of 
structuring a new paradigm in relations, which 
abandons the export of raw materials as
 the key to exchange.
 
“Africa has a lot to offer Europe and the world, much more than raw 
materials”, the head of state insisted and added that the continent 
has the capacity to resolve the planet's food and energy crisis, as
 long as it has access to capital, knowledge, technologies and
 other resources for development.
 
He mentioned challenges such as electrification, industrialization,
 mobility, education and health; and he highlighted that the Italian 
partners reflected -- in the Mattei Plan projects that adjust to the 
continent's perspectives.
 
He gave as an example, in the case of Angola, the Coffee Value 
Chain Development and Expansion Project, known as 
Prodecafé - aligned with the national objective of 
diversifying the economy and increasing the
 income of small producers.
 
“This project is the result of a collaboration between IFAD, Cassa 
Depositi e Prestiti, an Italian financial institution, and the private 
sector, which shows that it is possible to create economically 
integrated and commercially consistent business models”, 
he said.
 
He highlighted that the focus of the initiatives undertaken together 
is not limited to material aspects, but rather prioritizes aspects 
related to training and knowledge transfer, which will give 
them great social relevance, in addition to clear 
economic sustainability.
 
He emphasized the diversity of actions, ranging from logistics and 
interconnection infrastructures, such as the Lobito Corridor --- to 
the Blue-Raman optical cable, which in his opinion reflects the 
commitment of the Italian Government to the continent ---- so 
that development prospects translate into reciprocal and 
lasting benefits.
 
 
________________________________________
 
 
They recognize Angola's role at
 the head of the African Union
February 13th, 12:33pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Secretary General of the United Nations, António Guterres, 
today recognized the role played by Angola during its 
presidency of the African Union (AU), particularly 
with regard to the promotion of peace on
 the continent.
 
Guterres, who held a meeting this Friday with the Angolan president,
João Lourenço, on the day before the start of the 39th summit of 
heads of State and Government of the AU, said it enhanced the 
president's commitment to multilateralism and his effective 
leadership at the head of the organization.
 
In particular, he referred to the peace process between the 
Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the rebels of the 
Congo River Alliance-Movement 23 de Marzo (AFC/M23) 
and Rwanda, where he has not spared any effort.
 
The Angolan president also spoke this Friday with the president of 
the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network,
 Professor Jeffrey Sachs, and with other figures from UNESCO 
and African financial entities.
 
 
 
______________________________________
 
 
 
Africa --------- from local action to 
achieving results for its benefit
February 13th, 12:05pm
(Prensa Latina) 
 
It is a crucial moment to leave local action behind and turn ideas 
into concrete results for the people, the Prime Minister of 
Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, said today, at the Second 
Italy-Africa Summit.
 
Ahmed, when opening the meeting, declared that Rome articulated a 
vision of the future to serve as a bridge between both continents. 
Through the multisectoral plan, energy security, sustainable 
development, migration management and human capital 
integrate a unified strategy ...based on collaboration 
and mutual benefit, he stressed.
 
He specified that, by hosting the summit, held for the first time on 
African soil -- they affirm their willingness to work with Italy, with 
their African brothers and all partners committed to turning the 
strategic vision of disaster recovery, into life-enhancing 
development outcomes.
 
He highlighted that Ethiopia increasingly connects Africa with the
 world by mentioning its status as the continent's diplomatic 
capital, a growing centre for aviation and logistics, to host 
major global conferences - connecting regions, markets 
and ideas, as well as raising voices on global issues.
 
On the other hand, the Ethiopian head of government reiterated that 
the continent's greatest attraction is its young, ambitious people, 
ready to innovate and lead. By investing in new technologies 
and skills, we can create jobs, lots of talent, and address 
today's challenges while preparing for tomorrow's 
opportunities, he continued.
 
He considered technology ----- particularly artificial intelligence, to be 
fundamental to this. Data transformation and emerging technologies 
modernize energy infrastructure, improve food and health systems, 
facilitate trade and offer people-centred public services, he said.
 
In that sense, he said that by combining the dynamic and creative 
population of Africa with the experience, technology and capital 
of Europe, they can build solutions that generate prosperity on 
our continents ...and beyond.
 
«The Mattei Plan.... aligns closely with Ethiopia's priorities. It 
complements our national economic reform agenda in terms 
of renewable energy, climate, smart agriculture, 
infrastructure, digital transformation and 
human capital development», 
he assured.
 
He mentioned that from important hydroelectric initiatives and 
the expansion of regional interconnections.... to railways, 
aviation and the creation of innovation centres ---- Addis 
Ababa lays the foundation for sustainable development 
and shared values .......across Africa.
 
Together, we can forge a new relationship between Africa and 
Europe, not based on dependency, but on dignity; not in 
extraction, but in shared prosperity; not -- in the past,
but in a future that we build together, he concluded.
 
 
____________________________________
 
 
Cuba ........sends condolences to 
Mozambique for climate tragedy
February 13th, 11:46am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Cuban Foreign Minister, Bruno Rodríguez, today conveyed his 
condolences to the Mozambican Government and people for 
the human and material losses caused by the rains and
 floods in the African country.
 
On social network X, Rodríguez expressed his feelings about
 the tragedy “which has devastated the sister Republic of 
#Mozambique”, and wrote in his post, “we deeply regret
 the loss of human life and extensive material damage”.
 
When conveying his heartfelt condolences --- he extended them 
''in particular to relatives of the victims, the injured, displaced
 and others affected'' added the head of diplomacy of the 
Caribbean nation.
 
Mozambique has suffered torrential rains and serious flooding 
since October 2025, which have worsened this year with
 more than 200 deaths.
 
On the other hand, the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) 
pointed out that the repeated impacts of climate change, once 
again, cause mass population displacements in Mozambique.
 
In addition, he highlighted that these latest floods add pressure to a 
country that is already dealing with the conflict in the north, which 
stimulated the displacement of over 300 thousand inhabitants in
 the last half of 2025 alone.
 
The UN body also indicated that it requires $38.2 million in 2026 
to respond to the growing needs in the country and guarantee 
essential services for refugees, internally displaced persons 
and local host communities.
 
 
______________________________________
 
 
 
Prime Minister of Ethiopia 
received counterpart 
from Italy
February 13th, 10:20am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, received today his 
Italian counterpart, Giorgia Meloni, who arrived in this capital 
to participate in the Second Italy-Africa Summit co-organized 
by both governments.
 
Ahmed, on his account on social network X, expressed that 
«the occasion represents more than a diplomatic meeting; 
it symbolizes the deepening of the alliance between Italy 
& African nations; an alliance based on mutual respect,
 shared responsibility and a common vision of 
sustainable growth».
 
He specified that Meloni's visit underlines the collective 
commitment to strengthening cooperation in trade, 
investment, energy, infrastructure, agriculture 
and innovation.
 
The objective of the summit will be to review the results achieved
 in recent years by the Mattei Plan for Africa, gather the views of 
African partners and jointly identify operational priorities and 
working methods for subsequent phases.
 
The initiative is named after Enrico Mattei, an Italian public
 administrator who in the 1950s advocated for Rome to 
support North African governments.. to grow their 
economies and develop their natural resources, 
by promoting projects in crucial sectors.
 
The latter linked to the energy and climate transition, agriculture 
and food security, physical and digital infrastructure, health, 
water, culture and education, training and human capital, 
development of artificial intelligence --------- and space.
 
 
____________________________________


War was declared on France
by Marina Sovina 
(night editor)
February 12th, 6:26pm
(Lenta.ru)
 
Abdourahmane Chiani Amadou Ibro, chief of the military
staff of the President of Niger 
announced the country's
entry into
war...... with France. This is reported by
Jeune Afrique.
 
"Know that we are going to war with France, we were not at war, 
but now we are going to war with France," he said. According 
to him, the purpose of the government's previously approved 
mobilization decree --- was to prepare for war with France.
 
Earlier, the authorities of Niger stopped issuing visas and banned 
entry to citizens of the US. According to the interlocutor of the 
publication Agence nigérienne de presse, this ban for US 
citizens is “complete - and forever”, based on the 
principle of reciprocity.. and “reflects the 
evolution of the diplomatic policy” 
of Niger.
 
 
_____________________________________________


Angola -- calls for greater AU 
leadership in Sudan conflict  
February 12th, 6:36am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Angola, Téte António, today 
called for greater leadership of the African Union (AU) in the 
conflict in Sudan, which intensifies --- with indescribable 
consequences and a high loss of human life.
 
When speaking at the meeting of the AU Peace and Security 
Council (CPS), held in this capital and which was dedicated 
to analyzing the situation in Sudan and Somalia, as well as
 the operations of the AU Support & Stabilization Mission 
in Somalia, the Minister warned .......about the
 regional implications.
 
“Clashes - between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid 
Support Forces are concentrated in Kordofan, Darfur and the 
Blue Nile, with attempts at territorial consolidation that 
exacerbate the risk of de facto fragmentation of the 
Sudanese State”, he added.
 
He specified that the instability on the borders with Chad, South 
Sudan and Ethiopia, in addition to the security risks of the Red 
Sea, constitute a direct threat to continental peace and 
security; and strongly condemned --- any external, 
military, financial or logistical support that 
fuels the conflict.
 
“It should also be noted that arms trafficking and the illicit 
exploitation of Sudanese natural resources deserve firm 
disapproval. This conduct weakens the authority of this 
Council and compromises African solidarity and the 
collective credibility of our continent
he maintained.
 
He welcomed the ongoing initiatives, but stated that this 
plurality of efforts requires clear strategic convergence 
to avoid overlaps or competing dynamics, that could 
inadvertently prolong the conflict.
 
“Angola reaffirms the urgent need for the African Union to fully 
exercise its political leadership and coordination, ensuring 
harmonization of mediation efforts around an immediate 
and verifiable ceasefire, unrestricted humanitarian 
access and an inclusive political process, with
 Sudanese ownership”, he said.
 
He considered it essential -- to send a mission from the Peace and 
Security Council, as well as the implementation of the Sanctions 
Subcommittee, to identify and recommend firm and appropriate 
measures against military, logistical or financial support to 
the parties in conflict, including illicit arms trafficking 
and the illegal exploitation of natural resources.
 
António also highlighted the political initiatives developed by 
the Federal Government and the Federated States for the 
implementation of the Stabilization and Development 
Plan of Somalia, that seeks consensus on the 
distribution of power, resources and 
fiscal federalism.
 
However, it expressed concern about the persistent lack 
of political consensus in the Parliament of the Federal 
Republic of Somalia regarding the Constitutional 
Review process, which underlines the need 
for inclusive political dialogue between 
all Somali actors.
 
“The holding of elections - without a broad political agreement 
- in a context in which the presidential term of His Excellency 
Hassan Mohamud ends in May 2026, could lead to increased 
tensions, compromise institutional stability ----- and weaken 
efforts to combat Al-Shabaab”, he warned.
 
 
_____________________________________
 
 
 
African Union praised Ethiopia's 
progress in agricultural sector
February 12th, 5:58am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
African Union Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, 
the Blue Economy and the Sustainable Environment, Moses 
Vilakati, today praised Ethiopia's agricultural progress in 
becoming a wheat exporter.
 
Vilakati defined this transformation as an important milestone for 
the continent, while highlighting the notable journey undertaken 
by the African nation to strengthen its food production systems.
 
''We have realized where Ethiopia started and where they are right 
now, to the point that they are now exporting wheat. That is 
a milestone, and we are very, very grateful,'' he said 
at a press conference.
 
He recognized Addis Ababa's broader development agenda 
--- particularly its focus on agricultural modernization and 
digital transformation, demonstrating what is possible 
when innovation converges, with policy alignment
 and political will.
 
He considered that this progress offers a practical example
 for other African nations seeking to reduce dependence 
on food imports.
 
In the opinion of the commissioner of the African Union (AU), 
digital transformation reshapes the continent's agriculture 
by improving farmers' access to timely information, 
strengthens climate resilience and enables 
smarter, data-driven decision making.
 
At the heart of this effort is the AU Digital Agriculture Strategy
 2024-2030, which provides a framework for using such tools 
across agricultural value chains.
 
He stressed that technology-driven solutions, including digital 
advisory services, climate information systems, and digital 
markets, are the key to increasing productivity, improving 
food and nutrition security and creating economic 
opportunities, especially for young people.
 
He reaffirmed his commitment to institutionalizing digital 
innovation within Africa's agricultural sector.
 
As the continent prepares for the next review cycle in 2027, 
Vilakati called for the strategy to be translated into action, 
urging Member States to follow examples like Ethiopia to 
achieve food self-sufficiency... and reduce dependence 
on imports.
 
 
_________________________________________________
 
 
 
Ethiopia advocated sustained efforts
 for peace...... in Somalia and Sudan
February 12th, 5:41am
(Prensa Latina) 
 
Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos, today, called for 
sustained efforts against terrorism in Somalia and an inclusive 
political process in Sudan, as well as preserving and
 reinforcing the achievements in both countries.
 
Timothewos --- speaking at the meeting of the African Union Peace 
and Security Council, declared that the terrorist group Al-Shabaab
 continues to pose a serious threat to peace and security in 
Mogadishu, noting the “considerable sacrifices” made by 
Addis Ababa, and other partner nations, to promote 
peace and stability in the region.
 
Regarding Khartoum, he highlighted the need to pursue 
an inclusive political process involving all Sudanese 
stakeholders “to achieve a lasting and 
sustainable peace”.
 
Council members held extensive discussions on the situation of 
peace and security across the continent, paying particular 
attention to developments in Somalia and Sudan.
 
The session was held in parallel with the 48th Ordinary Session 
of the Executive Council of the African Union, convened for 2 
days under the theme of 2026, focused on the sustainable 
availability of water, sanitation systems and the 
advancement of continental integration.
 
 

All Africa music winners

Sudan's Wazza instrument

will africa solve hunger by 2030?

bust of  queen Nefertiti

ONE UNION

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

__________________________________


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

Here are two - one bad - one good.

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

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

Rise up, Africa!




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