DRC and the Congo -- to strengthen
cooperation in defense & security
February 10th, 2:49pm
(Prensa Latina)
Delegations from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
and the Congo spoke today in this capital with the purpose
of strengthening cooperation in defense and security
between the two sister nations.
Led by the Deputy Prime Minister and head of National Defense
and Veterans Affairs, Guy Kabombo Muadiamvita, the DRC
delegation had a working session this Tuesday with
Congolese representatives, led by the Minister of
National Defense, Charles Richard Mondjo.
“The Congo River is not a barrier --- but a natural link between us.
Our two countries share a common history of political solidarity
since independence; a natural and long-standing military
brotherhood unites our armed forces”, said
Kabombo Muadiamvita.
He also said that both parties have an understanding of regional
security challenges and show clear strategic complementarity.
“I urge our two ministries to communicate two key points to the
armed forces. They must consult with each other more
regularly, with fidelity and loyalty, in the fraternal
spirit that defines us”, the minister added,
according to the Central African
information agency.
Mondjo, meanwhile, emphasized the need - to strengthen the
capabilities of the armed forces to secure common borders,
guarantee freedom of movement within the respective
countries and create conditions for sustainable
economic and social development, for the
benefit of both peoples.
He considered the appointment of a defense attaché at the DRC
embassy in Brazzaville important, given the cooperation that
currently exists in military training, with institutions open
to students from both countries.
Among these are the Kananga Officer Training School; the
Superior of Military Administration; the Kinshasa War
Superior and the Centre for Advanced Studies in
Strategy and Defense in the DRC; while on the
other side are the General Leclerc Military
Preparatory School and the Marien
Ngouabi Military Academy.
The working visit concluded
with a military parade.
_________________________________________________
Diplomatic efforts for peace
--------- stand out in the DRC
February 10th, 12:15am
(Prensa Latina)
Media from the Democratic Republic of the Congo today
highlighted new diplomatic efforts to promote peace
processes in the country, finalize the ceasefire,
and carry out an internal dialogue to address
the causes of the conflict.
Newspapers such as La Prosperité and other spaces such as
Radio Okapi, the Congolese Press Agency and Actualité.CD,
highlighted the visit the day before of the president of the
DRC, Félix Tshisekedi, to Angola, to address these
issues with representatives of the continent.
The Congolese Presidency also referred to the matter and
highlighted support for the ceasefire in the east of the
country, as well as the mandate to Luanda to hold
consultations with all interested Congolese
parties, with a view to peaceful dialogue,
directed and organized.... by the
institutions of the Republic.
Present at the meeting in the Angolan capital were the
president of that country and incumbent of the
African Union (AU), João Lourenço; Togo's
head of state.... and designated AU
mediator, Faure Gnassingbé; and
former Nigerian President
Olusengun Obasanjo,
Peace Process
Facilitator.
The statement issued after the meeting urged the parties to
the conflict in the DRC to declare a ceasefire “which will
come into force on the agreed date and time”, and he
encouraged accelerating the implementation of the
Ceasefire Verification Mechanisms agreed in
Doha, Qatar, on October 14.
He also recalled the decisions adopted under the Washington
Agreement of December 4 and Resolutions 2773 and 2808
of the United Nations Security Council, in particular with
regard to the withdrawal of Rwandan troops from
Congolese territory and the neutralization of
the Democratic Forces for the Liberation
of Rwanda (FDLR).
Since the beginning of 2026, President Tshisekedi went to
Luanda in search of support to promote peace processes,
to which President Lourenço has mobilized diplomatic
actions ...with different actors.
The Congolese president has also been very active in the
region, which after the prominence achieved by the US
and Qatar in the peace processes, had been left a
little.. on the sidelines.
___________________________________________________
Global Investment Summit in Africa
is being prepared in Angola
February 10th, 11:46am
(Prensa Latina)
The president of Angola, Joao Lourenco, today received
the co-founder and executive president of the Global
Investment Summit in Africa, Akinwumi Adesina,
with whom he addressed the preparations for
holding a platform meeting.
“It was a very important moment”, Adesina declared to the press
after the meeting with the president -- and pointed out that the
meeting - which plans to mobilize investments for the African
continent - should be held at the end of this year in Luanda.
The executive president of GAIS, according to its acronym in
English, highlighted Angola's support for the initiative and
underlined the objective of the new global platform,
which hopes to connect international investors
with African sovereign assets.
He referred to the continent's vast natural and strategic
resources, such as oil, gas, critical minerals, metals,
rare earths - as well as physical and infrastructure
assets, which remains undervalued, he considers.
He added --- that the intention of the Summit is to structure
mechanisms that allow global capital to identify, evaluate
and invest in these assets.... from the elimination of
barriers and the reduction of transaction costs,
among other actions.
Strategic sectors such as energy, infrastructure, agriculture,
mining, oil and gas, and tourism will be among those
prioritized, with economic diversification and
sustainable growth ....on the horizon.
For its development, the GAIS aims to attract investors such
as sovereign wealth funds, pension funds and insurance
companies; as well as working to contribute to the
improvement of the regulatory environment and
public policies in African countries, so that
they guarantee legal certainty and clear
conditions..... for the entry and exit
of capital.
He emphasized that investments in Africa must be based on
the continent's own assets and valued the platform as a
structural change in the continent's positioning in the
global economy.
___________________________________
Ethiopia's ruling party launches
symbol for general elections
February 10th, 11:22am
(Prensa Latina)
The ruling Prosperity Party (PP) of Ethiopia today officially
launched its manifesto and symbol before the Seventh
General Elections scheduled for June 1.
Under the motto «Ethiopia: Towards an Exemplary Nation!»,
the PP unveiled a sheaf of wheat as an electoral symbol,
a reflection of the central Medemer philosophy that
symbolizes unity, collaboration ---- and
collective strength.
According to the political group, it also represents productivity
and sustainable prosperity, transmitting a vision in which the
nation's potential is achieved through hard work and a
balanced exercise of power.
The unveiling ceremony was attended by senior officials,
including Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh
and Party Vice President Adem Farah.
The launch comes as Ethiopia prepares for general elections
that the National Electoral Board said laid the groundwork
to ensure the process is credible and inclusive.
To support this, political parties received specialized
training --- to effectively disseminate their programs.
In an effort to modernize the system, the registration of
candidates and observers will be carried out using
newly developed software..... while the voter
system ...will combine digital and manual
systems to guarantee wide accessibility.
___________________________________________
Groundwater, the hydro-
political issue for Africa
February 10th, 10:43am
(Prensa Latina)
The executive secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on
Development (IGAD), Workneh Gebeyehu, stressed today that
groundwater is not just development, but also a question of
hydropolitics that requires more government commitment.
Gebeyehu, speaking at the side event of the 39th African Union
Summit, stressed that “water security is ultimately a people
issue: the girl who can attend school, the shepherd whose
cattle survive the drought, the mother whose children
drink clean water”.
He considered that the issue demands regional cooperation,
peace and security to safeguard this shared vital resource
in accordance with the 2063 Agenda of the
continental organization.
Beneath our drought-stricken landscapes lies one
of Africa's greatest untapped resources, he said.
In this sense, he recognized that there was no lack of water,
but rather governance, data and investment to release it.
Groundwater is not a hidden reserve of last resort, it is
a strategic asset for climate resilience, economic
stability and human dignity, he stressed.
Like IGAD, he continued, he assured that he remained firm
in promoting collective action so that shared waters,
especially between border communities, become
a basis for peace, resilience and prosperity
throughout the region.
The event organized by the African entity and the United
Nations Development Program met under the theme
“Unlocking investments in groundwater through
strategic partnerships: - advancement of the
water and sanitation objectives of Agenda
2063 in the Horn of Africa”.
_________________________________________
Turbulence reported - near the
Presidential Palace in Guinea
February 10th, 8:52am
(Prensa Latina)
The origin and cause of the automatic weapons clashes near
the executive mansion in this capital today, remain in the
realm of speculation due to a lack of official information.
Residents in the Kaloum area, where the country's main
penitentiary centre is also located, called the news
media - to inquire about what they described as
intense gunshots and vehicle traffic towards
the source of the disturbance..... which
began in the early hours of the day.
Although calm reigns, the area is cordoned off by police
officers, supported by elements of the Guinean special
troops who prevent the passage of curious onlookers.
_________________________________________________
They reaffirm Monusco's willingness
to support a ceasefire in the DRC
February 9th, 12:25pm
(Prensa Latina)
The United Nations Deputy Secretary General for Peace
Operations, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, today reaffirmed the
commitment of the UN Stabilization Mission in the
Democratic Republic of the Congo (Monusco)
to supporting the ceasefire.
During a meeting with the president of the Congolese Senate,
Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde, he supported all the diplomatic
initiatives undertaken to end violence in the region, Radio
Okapi said.
At the meeting, where they addressed the progress of efforts to
restore peace in eastern DRC, in particular the Washington and
Doha processes, Lacroix indicated that Monusco is willing to
do everything possible, to support the implementation of the
commitments made.
In particular, he alluded to the ceasefire, which.. he considered
should be carried out gradually and with a strong commitment
from all parties involved, and where the Mission will fulfill the
role entrusted by the Security Council to support the efforts.
Lacroix began a three-day visit to the DRC this Monday, with a
program that includes meetings with national and provincial
authorities, and conversations with political actors, civil
society and religious organizations... regarding the
security situation in the context of the ceasefire,
Monusco's account in X reported.
He is accompanied on this journey by the UN Police Advisor,
Commissioner Faisal Shahkar, whose agenda includes
meetings with the United Nations team in the country,
humanitarian partners and the Mission Police, as
well as a field visit to Beni.
_______________________________________________
Malian Army ....announces
death of alleged Islamists
February 9th, 11:02am
(Prensa Latina)
The Malian military command today issued a report in which
it claims that it killed almost three dozen terrorists -- after
bombings in an area of the northeast of the country.
The scene of the operations was Segu, the area where air
units located the insurgents' command, some of whom
sought refuge in a wooded area, but they were
persecuted and killed, reads the military
statement released through social
networks and glossed by
the press.
Mali, together with Niger and Burkina Faso, joined the Alliance of
Sahel States after jointly abandoning the Economic Community
of West African States because they considered it too
attached to the interests of the former powers of
european colonials and the United States.
They also refused to condemn Russia's special military operation
in Donbas as demanded by France, the United Kingdom and
Washington and established privileged ties with Moscow.
The case of Mali was a stormy divorce, since the junta that
governs this country... headed by Colonel Asimi Goita,
expelled French troops stationed at a military base
in his territory --- whom he accused of conspiring
with Islamist groups to impose regime change.
___________________________________________
Ethiopia... participated in the first
meeting of Brics Sherpas in India
February 9th, 9:06am
(Prensa Latina)
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, Hadera
Abera, led the local delegation that participated today, in
the first meeting of Sherpas of the Brics group for 2026
in India, reported the Foreign Ministry of the
African country.
Abera congratulated Neva Delhi on assuming the presidency
of the economic group and praised Brazil for its successful
presidency last year.
He underlined Addis Ababa's strong support for multilateralism,
centred on the United Nations system, to provide universal
and sustained international cooperation.
He urged the BRICS countries to play a constructive role in
ensuring respect for the UN Charter, at the same time,
they work to reform global governance so that it
is equitable and representative.
India's Presidency is based on four key priorities: strengthening
resilience, cooperation, fostering innovation and ensuring
sustainability, the source said.
These pillars coincide with the expectations and priorities
of Ethiopia and other BRICS countries. The meeting
deliberated on various agenda items focused on
those priorities.
On the other hand, the Ethiopian minister met with his Indian
counterpart, Sudhakar Dalela, within the framework of the
sherpas meeting. On their social network account X they
revealed that they reviewed progress in implementation
of the memorandums of understanding signed during
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to
Ethiopia -- as well as strengthening
cooperation under the Indian
Presidency this year.
They exchanged views on Ethiopian preparations for the 32nd
United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP32), Addis
Ababa's accession to the World Trade Organization, the
partnership between India and Africa ....and other
bilateral and multilateral issues.
_______________________________________________
UN head expresses ''concern''
about rising violence in
Southern Sudan
February 9th, 7:01am
(Prensa Latina)
The Secretary General of the UN, António Guterres, expressed
concern about the rise in violence in southern Sudan today
and warned that civilians and humanitarian workers pay
a devastating price.
In a message transmitted by his deputy spokesman -- Farhan Haq,
the head of the United Nations pointed out that almost 10 million
people - more than two thirds of that country's population - need
humanitarian assistance to survive and they continue to bear
the weight of the conflict.
In addition, he warned about the impact of the fighting between
the Army and the so-called Rapid Support Forces, the attacks
and looting on the work of aid groups, in healthcare facilities
and the stability of supply routes.
According to Guterres, “humanitarian operations are being
paralyzed and essential services closed, putting civilians
in serious danger”.
He also condemned the seizure of vehicles (including an
ambulance), attacks on health facilities, a World Food
Program convoy and the offices of organizations
that provide care to children.
The violence also caused massive displacements: more than
370 thousand people were forced to leave their homes so
far this year, he detailed in the statement and warned
about the existence of a cholera outbreak.
Guterres called on all parties ---- to “immediately and decisively
halt all military operations, reduce tensions through dialogue,
respect international law, protect civilians and ensure safe
and sustained humanitarian access.
_________________________________________________
India announces $175 million
package ......for Seychelles
February 9th, 6:40am
(Prensa Latina)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today announced a special
economic package of 175 million dollars for Seychelles,
aimed at projects such as social housing, electric
mobility, vocational training, health, defense
and maritime security.
The Indian head of government... revealed the decision at an
official ceremony for the exchange of agreements between
the delegations of both countries, also in the presence of
the president of Seychelles, Patrick Herminie, who will
culminate a state visit to the South Asian nation....
tomorrow.
Both Governments also adopted the India-Seychelles Joint
Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security
by Strengthening Links. India also announced the
donation of 10 ambulances and the same
number of vehicles.... and five sets of
Laser Radial class vessels, along
with spare parts ---------- to the
Seychelles Defense Forces.
New Delhi will supply one thousand metric tons of cereals and
legumes under the special economic package, and will be in
charge of remodeling the PS Zoraster ship -- for the African
country's Coast Guard and will establish a hydrographic
unit there.
On the other hand, the authorities from both countries exchanged
memoranda of understanding on pharmacopoeial cooperation,
technical and scientific collaboration and in the field of
solutions implemented at a population scale... for
digital transformation.
Also, for joint technical work in observation, services, training,
data exchange in the oceanic area and maritime scientific
research; for Training programs for public officials in
Seychelles; and about food acquisition.
Likewise, they finalized the cultural exchange
program from 2026 to 2030.
______________________________________________
President of Angola congratulates
the president of Portugal
February 9th, 6:39am
(Prensa Latina)
The president of Angola, Joao Lourenco, today - congratulated
the newly elected president of Portugal, António José Seguro,
whom he congratulated for his victory in the second round
of the presidential elections held this Sunday.
In a letter released through the Presidency's account on social
networks, the Angolan head of state highlighted that the
victory at the polls, is a reflection that the Portuguese
people have opted for the continuity of policies that
guarantee stability in the country's relationship
with the world.
He added that it is also a support for preserving the achievements
of their relationship of the last five decades, which have allowed
Angola and Portugal to develop sustained cooperation in the
past, continue in the present --- and guarantee promising
prospects for deepening... in the future.
“I hope to be able to maintain a fruitful and constructive dialogue
with His Excellency at the first opportunity given to us for this
purpose”, stressed Lourenco, who also conveyed... our best
wishes for success in carrying out the “difficult and noble
mission as President of the Portuguese Republic”.
António José Seguro, backed by the left, won the second round of
Portugal's presidential election --- with 66.82 percent of the vote,
against André Ventura, leader of the far-right Chega party, who
obtained 33.18 percent.
In numbers, the socialist candidate obtained three million
480 thousand 158 votes, an historic record of support,
ahead of those obtained by Mario Soares in the
1991 elections.
The official results published by the Ministry of Internal
Administration of the Portuguese Government include
a participation of 50.11 percent, as well as blank
vote data (3.17%) and null (1.78%).
____________________________________
Ethiopia thwarted more than 99%
of cyberattacks --- in six months
February 9th, 5:43am
(Prensa Latina)
The Ethiopian Information Network Security Administration
(INSA) revealed that it thwarted more than 99 percent of
cyberattack attempts during the first six months of
fiscal year 2025-2026, it was known today.
According to the source, they recorded a total of 27,773 attacks
against the national digital infrastructure, of which 27,505
(99.03 percent) were effectively neutralized, showing the
strengthening of the defense capabilities of that sector.
During the review of INSA's performance... in the aforementioned
period, its general director, Tigist Hamid, said the institution is
continually improving its defensive systems in response to
the evolving nature and complexity of cyber threats.
Hamid noted that they are making sustained efforts to improve
technological infrastructure - to enable early detection, rapid
responses and an effective mitigation of cybersecurity risks.
Likewise, they actively implement key initiatives that underpin
the Ethiopia 2030 Digital Strategy, with government entities
increasingly equipped with digital technologies to improve
efficiency and service delivery.
In that sense, he mentioned the introduction of electronic billing
systems in the Ministry of Revenue, the deployment of body
cameras by the Addis Ababa Revenue Authority and the
continued development of integrated human resources
and document management systems within the
Federal Police.
Referring to digital forensic science, the board reported that they
responded to 245 of the 253 investigation requests submitted to
the Administration during the period under review, which
reflected greater institutional capacity in supporting
the clarification of cybercrimes.
_________________________________________________
UK ordered in 'milestone' court ruling
to pay $570 million for colonial-era
massacre
February 6th, 6:33pm
(PressTV)
The British government has been ordered in a "milestone"
court ruling to pay hundreds of millions of dollars to the
descendants of victims of a colonial-era massacre
of unarmed civilians in Nigeria.
Enugu High Court Justice Anthony Onovo ruled on Thursday
that the UK must pay $27 million to each of the families of
21 black miners massacred for protesting the dire labour
conditions at the Iva Valley Coal Mine in the southeast
of the country in 1949.
Dozens more were wounded in the heavy-handed crackdown
described by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) as one of
the most notorious acts of repression under British rule
in Nigeria.
The Black miners, protesting harsh working conditions,
racial disparities in wages, and unpaid back wages,
adopted a “go-slow” protest method and occupied
the mine -- to prevent management from locking
them out when their demands were not met.
The nonviolent act of disobedience by the unarmed and
defenseless Black miners prompted the colonial-era
British Superintendent of Police, F.S. Philip, to
order the British and local police officers
under his command -- to open fire and
shoot to kill the hapless protesters,
killing 21 of them and wounding
51 more.
In his ruling, the Enugu judge pointed out that
the defenseless miners were carrying out a
nonviolent act of protest.
“These defenseless coal miners... were asking for improved
work conditions; they were not embarking on any violent
action against the authorities, yet they were shot and
killed,” according to the News Agency of Nigeria.
In addition to the aforementioned compensation, the judge
ordered the UK --- to also pay the victims' families post-
judgment interest within 90 days at a rate of 10%
per annum until the full sum is paid. He also
ordered that written apologies be
published in Nigerian and
British newspapers
within 60 days.
One of the plaintiff lawyers -- hailed the court ruling as a
milestone for future claims of colonial-era crimes. This
ruling.... is “a significant milestone in the pursuit of
historical accountability” --- said Yemi Akinseye
-George, adding that it affirms “that the right
to life ---- transcends time, borders, and
changes in sovereignty.”
Nigerian historians believe the Iva Valley Coal Mine incident,
known in Nigeria as the 1949 Enugu Colliery Massacre,
helped to consolidate the fledgling anti-colonial
movement - that eventually led to Nigeria's
independence from British rule in 1960.
Meanwhile, 10 Downing Street said it had not yet been formally
notified by the Government of Nigeria... of the Enugu High
Court's order, and so.. it could not comment on whether
the ruling to pay compensation to the families of the
victims would be honoured.
Despite insisting that it does not accept claims related to the
colonial-era administration... the UK has previously settled
similar historical abuse cases, by paying compensation.
London agreed to pay £19.9 million in 2013 to more than 5,000
elderly Kenyans who suffered torture and abuse by British
forces during the Mau Mau uprising in the 1950s in the
East African British Colony of Kenya.
___________________________________________
France, UK - involved in assassination
of Muammar Gaddafi's son: Reports
February 6th, 11:36am
(PressTV)
France and the United Kingdom are reportedly involved in the
assassination of Saif al-Islam Gaddafi, the prominent son of
former Libyan President Muammar Gaddafi, as he was
seen as the man who could reunite Libya after
the NATO-backed uprising.
Saif al-Islam was killed by unknown gunmen
who stormed his home in Zintan town
on Tuesday.
Gaddafi’s political team said in a statement ----- that “four masked
men” killed him in a “cowardly and treacherous assassination,”
adding that he tried to fight off the assailants, who shut off
the security cameras at the house ------- “in a desperate
attempt to conceal traces of their heinous crimes.”
“Our sources on the ground in Libya ---- told us that they suspect
that British intelligence used local proxies to assassinate the
man seen by many as the one who could reunite Libya, 15
years after NATO bombed Libya into a failed state during
their campaign to kill Muammar Gaddafi,” said British
broadcaster and former Press TV presenter
Afshin Rattansi.
He also hinted.... at France's involvement in the assassination,
saying “We also know that France has deep motives in Libya,
we know from Wikileaks cables that France wanted a
‘greater share in Libya’s oil production’ in 2011, and
Sarkozy was negotiating to reserve as much as
35% of Libya’s oil production.”
According to his remarks, Saif al-Islam was seen by many as
“the most likely candidate to win any Presidential election”
and unite the country after years of instability, especially
as he had support from tribes that originally fought
against his father in 2011.
“Watch now as the US, UK, and France start to steamroll ahead
with the long-delayed elections in Libya, now that the one
leading candidate who would have united Libya, and not
followed their orders to allow Libya to be a de facto
colony that is perpetually looted for its oil
reserves, is now dead.”
Meanwhile, the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service’s (SVR)
press bureau noted that Saif al-Islam’s assassination came
as France.. has reportedly been preparing “neo-colonial
coups d’etat” in Africa and seeking opportunities for
"political revenge" on the continent.
The report said the influence of the former colonial power in
African countries is waning, as they refused “to serve as
puppets of the financial and political oligarchy of
French globalists.”
"Whether inspired by the American operation to capture
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro ...or imagining
himself as the arbiter of the fate of African peoples,
Macron - has authorized his special services to
launch a plan --- to eliminate 'undesirable
leaders' in Africa," the SVR press
bureau added.
Libya has been struggling for stability since 2011, when
the country’s former leader, Muammar Gaddafi, was
overthrown and killed in a NATO-backed uprising.
According to the Cradle, intelligence from foreign countries,
including the United Kingdom, organized an army led by
members of the Libyan Islamic Fighting Group (LIFG)
to overthrow the Libyan regime.
The al-Qaeda-linked LIFG, which was formed to fight alongside
Osama bin Laden’s “Afghan Arabs” in Afghanistan in the
1980’s, took control of the capital Tripoli and toppled
the government.
After the killing of Muammar Gaddafi --- his hometown fell under
the control of Libya’s branch of Daesh terrorist group, serving
as its most significant base outside of West Asia, while the
country descended into civil war and chaos.
Saif al-Islam, his father’s close advisor from 2000 until 2011,
was captured and imprisoned in Zintan in 2011 after trying
to flee the North African country after his father’s death.
He was freed in 2017 as part of a general
pardon and had lived in Zintan since.
According to the SVR, France was also involved in the
attempted coup against Burkina Faso’s President
Ibrahim Traore... whose government distanced
itself from Paris since the fall of then-Interim
President Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba in
the 2022 coup, last month.
"Our intelligence services intercepted this operation in the
final hours. They had planned to assassinate the head of
state and then strike other key institutions, including
civilian personalities," Burkina Faso security
minister Mahamadou Sana stated.
Traore also helped to found the Alliance of Sahel States,
comprising Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger.
The SVR added that France is also seeking to destabilize
the governments of Mali, the Central African Republic,
and Madagascar.
_______________________________________________________
EU Representative ----
recognizes Angola's
role in the region
February 6th, 11:06am
(Prensa Latina)
The EU special representative for the Great Lakes Region,
Johan Borgstam, today recognized Angola's role in both
promoting peace ...and development initiatives.
After a meeting with the Angolan president, Joao Lourenco,
at the Presidential Palace of Ciudad Alta, he said it meant
that the country has been key in the regional processes
of political coordination and security; as well as --- in
promoting projects for the sustainable development
of the area, and the continent.
In statements to the press, he highlighted the holding, the
day before, in Luanda --------- of the meeting of the Lobito
Corridor Coordination Committee, a concrete example
of actions that seek not only economic growth, but
also a direct impact on the population, and the
advancement of the countries involved.
He also referred to the role played in the peace process
for the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and
the continental leadership in this year.. in which
he led the African Union.
In this regard, Borgstam maintained that the international
community, and in particular the EU, have a special
admiration.... for the management of President
Lourenco, with whom, he considered it an
honour to exchange ideas.
_______________________________________________
Northern Morocco
invaded by floods
February 6th, 9:50am
(Prensa Latina)
The Moroccan city of Kasar el Kebir (north) and surrounding
towns are today under water due to floods that overflowed
the Loukkos River.
At least 140 thousand people have been evacuated by the
Army to high areas... and housed in temporary camps,
waiting for the inclement weather to stop so they
can return to their homes.
The biblical downpours that hit the region, began last
September and were met with emergency measures
such as the placement of sandbags on the banks of
the river & at the entrances to hospitals & housing,
but in the long run .......they were insufficient.
Since last week, the Moroccan monarch, Mohammed VI,
ordered the immediate shipment of food, warm clothing
and tents to help the thousands of people affected by
climate phenomena - harming this Maghreb country.
Africa, both north and south of the Sahara, they have been
suffering for years from the devastating effects of climate
change caused by human predation of nature and the
subsequent destruction of the ozone layer.
Paradoxical as it may be, the most affected are the
underdeveloped countries, the smallest emitters
of gas that cause the greenhouse effect, with
their societies of unbridled consumption.
Long droughts that devastate crops and kill livestock,
followed by portentous downpours.. that drag lives
and farms in their wake, have become common
in the far reaches of the planet --- without a
solution appearing on the horizon.
___________________________________
Petrobras announces participation
in exploratory block in Namibia
February 6th, 8:53am
(Prensa Latina)
Brazilian state oil company Petrobras announced today that
it has acquired a stake in a hydrocarbon exploration block
off Namibia's coast, as part of its international strategy.
According to company information cited by Brazilian media,
Petrobras obtained a 42.5 percent stake in Block 2613,
located in the Lüderitz basin, off the Atlantic coast of
the African country, in association with the French
company TotalEnergies.
This last firm will also have 42.5 percent of the block and
will act as operator of the project, while Eight Offshore
Investment Holdings will retain 5% and Namibian
state-owned Namcor Exploration & Production,
will retain the remaining 10 percent.
Through a statement ...sent to the Brazilian Securities
Commission, Petrobras indicated that the operation
marks its return to Namibia and is aligned with the
2026-2030 Business Plan, aimed at diversifying
exploration areas .......and reinforcing the
replenishment of reserves.
Block 2613 covers an approximate area of 11 thousand square
kilometres and is located in a region considered to have high
potential after recent discoveries of oil and gas on the
African Atlantic margin.
Completion of the transaction is conditional on compliance with
the foregoing conditions, including applicable government and
regulatory approvals, in particular from the Ministry of
Industry, Mines and Energy of Namibia.
________________________________________
Pharaonic art - on political
domination found in Egypt
February 6th, 8:49am
(Prensa Latina)
Researchers confirmed the discovery of a rock panel in Wadi
Khamila, southwest of the Sinai Peninsula, which today..
reveals one of the oldest representations of political
submission linked to pharaonic Egypt.
The scene, recorded around three thousand years ago,
shows a large figure raising his arms in a gesture of
victory in front of a kneeling and tied individual.
According to specialists, it could be a pharaoh or the
god Min, associated with fertility and expeditions in
foreign territories, reported the National
Geographic media.
The relief, discovered in 2025 by Inspector Mustafa
Nour El-Din, constitutes unprecedented evidence
of early Egyptian expansion into the Sinai.
The inscription that accompanies the image alludes to
the “lord of the copper region”, which reinforces the
interpretation ....of a dominance over
strategic resources.
Experts like Ludwig Morenz, from the University of Bonn,
consider this to be one of the first official images of
violence used as state propaganda and adds to
other records in Wadi Ameyra and Wadi
Maghara, where Egypt recorded its
control over minerals such as
copper and turquoise, the
publication adds.
The site also reveals overlapping layers of later inscriptions,
from Egyptian markings to Arabic graffiti, demonstrating its
cultural relevance over millennia.
An enigmatic detail is the deliberate elimination of the name
of the represented leader, a fact that raises questions
about power disputes, in successive times,
concludes National Geographic.
Researchers are still debating whether the scene
reflects a specific historical episode, or a
symbolic representation of power.
____________________________________
Sassou N'Guesso will be Congo's
election candidate in March
February 5th, 9:31am
(Prensa Latina)
The president of the Congo, Denis Sassou-N'Guesso,
announced today his candidacy for the presidential
elections next March, during his participation in
the inauguration of the Great Congo
Agricultural Fair in Ignié.
The information was later confirmed by a message
on the Presidency's account in X.
The president pointed out --- that in the 2021 presidential
campaign he opted to promote economic diversification
and six main areas of development were established,
among which agriculture was included.
These actions currently offer results, he said, adding that he
will continue to support these efforts... to be elected in the
elections from March 12 to 15.
The announcement echoes calls from his party and other
political groups who have been urging him to run for a
new term --- for several months.
Sassou-N'Guesso will represent the presidential majority, made
up of 18 political parties, which signed a joint declaration of
support for his candidacy on February 2.
The current president came to power for the first time, on
February 5, 1979, after the resurgence of the Congolese
Labour Party, then - the only political party.
After the establishment of the multi-party system and the end
of the war, he returned to the presidency on June 5, 1997
and has been elected and re-elected since 2002.
On December 31, in his message to the country regarding the
new year, he highlighted the importance of the presidential
elections scheduled for March as a sensitive and
determining moment, and called for its
realization ...in harmony.
The elections -- are a meeting of the people with the polls and
with modern democracy, he said on the occasion, and added
that voting ----- is a fundamental civil right and a moral duty.
Through suffrage, citizens ensure the proper functioning of
democracy in the country. “This, is an achievement for
which the people mobilize, in order to achieve their
fundamental demands”, he added.
He then called to keep the nation united, free and prosperous,
by holding elections based on that principle of unity, fair play
and serenity and called for placing the interest of the Congo
first, since the country....... is the greatest common good,
he emphasized.
____________________________________
President of Angola calls for concrete
actions -------- in Corredor de Lobito
February 5th, 9:06am
(Prensa Latina)
The president of Angola, Joao Lourenco, today highlighted
the need for good intentions around the Lobito Corridor
to be translated .....into operational decisions, and
implementation instruments.
“We need to align priorities, define roadmaps, establish
responsibilities and create monitoring mechanisms
that guarantee a real, measurable and lasting
impact”, the president said during the
inauguration of the first working
meeting of the Lobito Corridor
Coordination Mechanism.
In front of representatives of the countries directly involved in
the implementation of the railway and logistics platform:
Zambia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo,
as well as the World Bank and development
partners, the head of state insisted on
the importance of the meeting.
He considered the appointment as a step -- to guarantee
regulatory harmonization and facilitation processes for
the project, based on the definition of objectives,
responsibilities - and regular monitoring.
He stated that the Mechanism does not seek to create new
structures or additional bureaucracies, but rather to
ensure that all initiatives are adequately
coordinated, avoiding duplication
and fragmentation.
“Complementarity between projects, financing and reforms, is
key to maximizing results and accelerating implementation”,
he said. He gave relevance to the assurance of railway,
road and energy infrastructure, as the backbone of
the Lobito Corridor, therefore ---- he valued as
strategic, the completion of rehabilitation
projects in the DRC, the construction of
the railway and road connection with
Zambia, and the interconnection of
Angola's energy transportation
network .....with the region.
“Without this effort, the creation of an effective development
corridor for our countries, integrated into the context of the
global economy, will become much more difficult”,
he noted.
Lourenço highlighted the financing agreement for 753 million
dollars for the Lobito Atlantic Railway (LAR) last December,
which includes $553 million from the US Development
Finance Corporation (DFC) and $200 million from the
Development Bank of South Africa (DBSA).
It meant that this money, intended to support the rehabilitation
and modernization of the railway axis and associated logistics
components, confirms that the corridor has the conditions to
mobilize structured and long-term financing ----- as well as
reinforces the credibility and profitability of the project.
“The Lobito Corridor is more than an infrastructure project; It
is a project of trust, integration and a shared future. Its true
success will be measured not only by the kilometres of
railway tracks or the volume of cargo transported,
but by the impact it will have on people's lives”,
he added.
_____________________________________
Millions of displaced and food
insecure people --- in the DRC
February 5th, 8:26am
(Prensa Latina)
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian
Affairs (OCHA) considered the situation in the Democratic
Republic of the Congo (DRC) at critical levels, with
millions of food insecure and internally
displaced people.
According to the closing report of 2025, published today by
Radio Okapi, in the country there are more than 5.3 million
Congolese who left their homes ---- mainly due to the
violence of armed conflicts.
Meanwhile, 24.8 million people live in a situation of food
insecurity, which means that almost a quarter of the
population has difficulties meeting their basic
nutritional needs.
Last year, OCHA also recorded 260,500 protection incidents,
including serious human rights violations, gender violence
and attacks on the physical integrity of civilians.
The persistence of armed conflicts (mainly in the east);
economic instability and the rising cost of living; and
climate crises (floods and landslides), are some of
the causes of the worsening of this situation.
The eastern provinces of the country are the most affected
by population displacement, since North Kivu, South Kivu,
Ituri and Tanganyika.... host the vast majority of the 5.3
million internal refugees.
OCHA called for strengthening humanitarian assistance, and
recalled that current resources are insufficient to meet the
magnitude of needs on the ground.
He also urged to protect the civilian population, pointing
out the 260,500 protection incidents that occurred ----
as a record number.
______________________________________
Tshisekedi spoke with Marco Rubio
about peace in the DRC
and ''investments''
February 5th, 6:43am
(Prensa Latina)
The president of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC),
Félix Tshisekedi, spoke the day before in Washington with the
Secretary of State of the United States, Marco Rubio, on the
peace process with Rwanda and US investments.
As reported today by the Congolese Presidency, they mainly
addressed the progress of the commitments made under
the Peace Agreement signed in the US capital, and the
strategic alliance between the two countries.
Both sides --- reaffirmed their mutual commitment to promoting
peace, stability and economic development in the DRC, while
safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity, and he
referred to the note from the Presidency.
The meeting took place two months after the ratification of the
Peace Agreement, carried out by the Congolese president and
his Rwandan counterpart, Paul Kagame; however, on the
ground the situation remains tense -- without the main
objective being met: a ceasefire.
The exchange was also marked by the holding this Wednesday
of the ministerial meeting on critical minerals, an area in
which there are business promises.... worth billions
of dollars.
This Wednesday Tshisekedi met with the US Secretary of the
Interior, Doug Burgum, with whom he discussed the review
of the strategic alliance between both countries to
promote mutually beneficial investments and
development opportunities, economic
growth and prosperity.
He also held conversations with chairman of the House
Foreign Affairs Committee, Brian Mast; accompanied
by representatives Chris Smith, Sarah Jacobs and
Gregory Meeks.
The dialogue revolved around the security situation in eastern
DRC, the effective implementation of the commitments made
under the Washington Peace Agreement; the protection of
the civilian population and respect for international
humanitarian law, and the strategic alliance
with the US.
They recognized the fundamental role of the DRC in the stability
of the Great Lakes Region and in the security of supply chains
of critical minerals essential for the global energy transition.
The Congolese head of state also met with senators Jim Risch
and Jeanne Shaheen, with whom he addressed the security
situation in eastern DRC, the implementation of the Peace
Agreement with Rwanda and the strengthening of the
alliance with Washington.
This Thursday, Tshisekedi is invited to participate.... in the
National Prayer Breakfast, an annual meeting that brings
together the political, economic and social elite, the
president's spokesperson, Tina Salama, reported
on her X account.
[Rhondda Records adds..... we do wonder
how many people started laughing while
reading this.]
______________________________________
They demand - the rethinking of
peace mechanisms in Ethiopia
February 3rd, 1:14pm
(Prensa Latina)
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed today called for
a fundamental rethinking of Ethiopia's
peacebuilding --- and conflict
resolution mechanisms.
Ahmed, addressing the House of People's Representatives
(Parliament) at its tenth regular session, defined the long-
standing dependence on force, a culture of betrayal and
external fears of growth as key factors behind the
country's persistent lack of stability.
He noted that Ethiopians have historically been conditioned
to resolve disagreements through force rather than
dialogue, a practice that also hinders
national cohesion.
According to the head of government, this culture of
confrontation is deeply rooted and often begins at
the family level, shaping broader political and
social behaviours that then manifest....
in conflicts.
He emphasized that achieving sustainable peace requires
transforming the political culture and social norms --- by
prioritizing dialogue, trust and mutual understanding,
over coercion and division.
When referring to the historic inclusive national dialogue,
he expressed that the current generation... must build
and shape the country through that path. From this
perspective, the National Dialogue Commission
identified key agendas ---- and carried out
commendable work, he added.
“In the future, it is expected that (the Commission) will engage
in a wide range of in-depth discussions on these agendas and
present ideas accordingly. The process - so far - has also
shown that Ethiopians share closely aligned interests
and aspirations”, he asserted.
Regarding the seventh general elections scheduled for next
June of this year, Ahmed reiterated that the government
is working hard ---- to ensure that they are peaceful,
fair and inclusive.
During his speech, he also emphasized that the people of
Tigray must be actors in the political sphere, ensuring
that they want peace and development.
“They are peace-loving people who want to overcome their
current difficulties, work hard and transform their lives
through their own efforts. They also want to work
together and grow... in cooperation with their
Ethiopian colleagues”, he said.
However, he acknowledged --- that the Tigrayans have not
intervened in that aspect and are instead, simply a stage
in which others act. A scenario is something that others
play in; it does not act by itself, he clarified.
“Therefore, the people of Tigray must become actors in
their own right. To achieve this, a new political
mentality is required. Tigray politicians must
also move from being supporting actors to
becoming leading actors”, he concluded.
_________________________________________
Sudan ------- breaks siege to
southern state, says party
February 3rd, 9:46am
(Prensa Latina)
The two-year siege of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF)
paramilitaries ended today after an Army offensive,
secures a part of the Sovereign Transitional
Council (CST, government).
The operation was supported by allied forces,
the communication says, without specifying
their identity.
After a long battle, the race between Kadugi,
the state capital, and the city of Dilling
was left open, the text adds.
However, at the beginning of the week the Turkish
government revealed that it has F-16 fighter-
bombers deployed in Sudan that join the
combat helicopters already operating
in support of the CST in the conflict
with the RSF.
What has come to be called Sudan's forgotten war broke out in
April 2023 when the CST and the RSF, its ally until then, came
into conflict due to the refusal of the command of the latter
to integrate their weapons and troops into the Army.
The conflagration has ---- so far ---- cost Sudan the internal
displacement and also the displacement to neighbouring
countries of some 14 million people, the largest refugee
crisis in history, with 24 thousand dead - both civilians
and military - and the devastation of this northeast
African country .......formerly known as Nubia, the
homeland of the Queen of Sheba - whose beauty
bewitched King Solomon, according to tradition.
_______________________________________________
Ethiopia calls for greater integration
in the world summit ......for Africa
February 3rd, 9:25am
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopian President Taye Atske-Selassie considered
today - that Africa must actively shape its future
amid the changing dynamics of global power,
emphasizing integration, sustainable
development and trust-based
partnerships.
Selassie, speaking at the World Summit of Governments that
meets from February 3 to 5 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates,
he highlighted the Red Sea corridor as a vital artery that
carries about 12 percent of international trade,
reported Fana Media Corporation.
He stressed ---- that Africa does not intend to be a passive
observer of global change, but rather an architect of its
own destiny, mentioning that innovation in renewable
energy, artificial intelligence and digital finance
provides tools.... to overcome long-standing
development obstacles.
He highlighted the African Continental Free Trade Area
(AfCFTA) .....as a transformative initiative that
consolidates a market of 1.3 billion people -
with a combined Gross Domestic Product
of more than 3.4 trillion of dollars.
He recalled that the AfCFTA, a flagship project under the
African Union's Agenda 2063, eliminates up to 90% of
tariffs, strengthens regional production networks
and advances inclusive and sustainable
socio-economic development.
Regarding national priorities, he outlined the three strategic
pillars that support regional and continental growth. First,
energy: with the Great Ethiopian Renaissance Dam now
fully operational with more than 6,000 megawatts of
renewable electricity, contributing to pan-African
industrial connectivity, he said.
Secondly, he continued, food security. He highlighted that the
African country went from being an importer of wheat to the
largest producer in Africa, while last year it produced
640,000 tons of coffee, and planting 8.5 billion
high-quality seedlings.
Finally, aviation and logistics. In that sense, he mentioned
the construction of a $12.5 billion international airport in
Bishoftu with the capacity for 110 million passengers
and more than three million tons of cargo per year.
Faced with the challenges faced by Africa, including the
infrastructure financing gaps, limited capital and the
need for stable trade routes... Ethiopia empowers
financial institutions, also promotes innovative
public-private partnerships, and strongly
encourages African entrepreneurs
to invest in the continent's
development, he said.
The head of state ...called for patience, negotiation and
collaboration based on shared interests, emphasizing
that the continent approaches global transitions,
with depth and careful self-assessment.
________________________________________________
Ethiopia... obtained million-dollar
income from exports & services
February 3rd, 6:11am
(Prensa Latina)
The Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, reported today
before Parliament that $5.1 billion in merchandise exports
entered during the first six months of fiscal year 2018
(2025-2026).
Ahmed, when presenting the performance of the federal
government during the first half of the period indicated
before the House of People's Representatives
(Parliament), said that figure represents
120 percent of the planned goal.
It also revealed that they earned $4.5 billion from services
and exports and another $4.6 billion through remittances,
considered a strong performance ---- across multiple
revenue streams.
He highlighted that foreign direct investment inflows reached
2.3 billion of the same currency, demonstrating successful
macroeconomic management and growing investor
confidence in Ethiopia's economy.
The head of Government emphasized ---- that these figures
underline the effectiveness of ongoing economic reforms
and efforts to create a favourable environment for trade,
investment and industrial growth.
He added that a continued focus on exports, diversification
and innovation will be key to sustaining national economic
growth and achieving the current fiscal year's goals.
He noted ----- that export earnings growth is complemented by
a strong performance in other sectors, including agriculture,
industry and services, which position Ethiopia - among the
fastest growing economies in Africa.
______________________________________
Foreign Ministry: The African Corps
of the Ministry of Defense helped
repel a militant attack on an
airport in Niger
February 2nd, 9:39pm
(RT.ru)
On the night of January 29, the Nigerian Army, together
with the African Corps of the Russian Ministry of
Defense, repelled a terrorist attack on Diori
Hamani International Airport in Niamey.
This --- was reported by the press service
of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
"The attack was repelled by the joint efforts of the African
Corps of the Russian Ministry of Defense and the Armed
Forces of Niger. About 20 terrorists were neutralized,"
the Foreign Ministry website article stated.
It is noted that the Islamic State militants have
taken responsibility for the terrorist attack.
Earlier, Reuters reported that shots and explosions were
heard near the international airport of the capital of
Niger, Niamey.
During the attack on the airport in the capital of Niger,
at least 20 mercenaries were killed and 11 others
were injured.
* The Islamic State (IS, ISIS) is an organization recognized
as a terrorist organization by the Russian Supreme Court
on December 29, 2014.
_________________________________________________________
