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.
__________________________________________
Pacific Cyclone devastates
city --------- in Madagascar
February 11th, 1:08pm
(Prensa Latina)
The Malagasy city of Toamasina today counts its deaths
while it remains blocked from the rest of the country
due to the rains accompanying Cyclone Gezani.
The first count of fatalities amounts to 20, a provisional figure
with a tendency to increase due to the number of missing
people, still to be determined --------- while the search
continues among the rubble of houses demolished
....by the fury of the winds accompanying the
climatic phenomenon -- that also caused
injuries to a large number of residents
in the city, where about 400,000
people live.
The rescue tasks and sending humanitarian aid to those affected
by the waters accumulated during hours of inclement downpours
that lasted hours, according to the testimonies of the residents.
As usual, every year the hurricane will continue its route through
the Mozambique Channel, the waterway that separates this
island from the mainland of the African continent.
Disaster - is a dark possibility that hits this island country, one of
the poorest in the world, as its 1st target every cyclonic season.
The cyclones of the Pacific Ocean...... are acquiring increasing
destructive force as a result of climate change caused by the
excessive emission of greenhouse gases, especially by the
economies of industrialized countries Western Europe and
the US - whose successive governments refuse to adopt
fundamental measures to reverse the catastrophe.
_____________________________________________________
Prime Minister of Ethiopia received
the Minister of Foreign Affairs of
Saudi Arabia
February 11th, 12:12pm
(Prensa Latina)
The Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, received today the
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia, Prince Faisal bin
Farhan Al Saud, to discuss bilateral and multilateral
issues of mutual interest.
Ahmed, on his account on the social network X, revealed that
the meeting focused on further strengthening long-standing
relations between both countries, expanding cooperation
in key strategic sectors and improving the coordination
of regional and global events.
The discussions ----- reaffirmed Addis Ababa and Riyadh's
commitment to deepening their partnership and working
closely on issues of shared priority. The Saudi Foreign
Minister arrived in Ethiopia this Wednesday, on an
official visit.
Last February 2, Al Saud and his Ethiopian counterpart, Gedion
Timothewos, agreed in the Saudi capital to deepen their long-
standing bilateral relationship after high-level talks focused
on strengthening their political, economic and
diplomatic cooperation.
During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on improving
already strong relations between Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia,
as well as on regional and international issues of mutual
interest within the framework of multilateral diplomacy.
They emphasized the importance of raising bilateral ties... to a
higher level through expanded cooperation in various sectors,
with the shared goal of advancing a strategic partnership,
the source revealed.
The talks also addressed regional peace and security --- with
special attention to promoting stability in the Horn of Africa.
In this context, the ministers agreed to work closely, to
support peace and stability in the region.
__________________________________________
Foreign Ministers of Ethiopia, Morocco
and Lesotho - addressed bilateral ties
February 11th, 11:38am
(Prensa Latina)
Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos held bilateral
talks today with his counterparts from Morocco, Nasser
Bourita, and from Lesotho, Lejone Mpotjoane, outside
the Executive Council of the African Union.
Timothewos, during the dialogue with Bourita, focused
on improving relations between both countries and
cooperation within multilateral platforms.
In this regard, they agreed to convene the next session
of the Joint Ministerial Commission as a mechanism
to further strengthen their partnership.
On the other hand, in the meeting with Mpotjoane... the
Ethiopian foreign minister emphasized the importance
of further strengthening bilateral ties and highlighted
Addis Ababa's willingness to share its experience in
sectors where it achieved notable progress.
The head of Lesotho diplomacy expressed his country's
interest in learning from Ethiopia's practice in
agriculture, health and tourism. He also
praised the ongoing corridor
development projects in
this capital.
The 2 ministers exchanged views on bilateral
and continental issues.... of mutual interest.
The 48th Regular Session of the Executive Council of the
African Union began its work agenda this Wednesday
with the mission of coordinating and adopting policy
decisions ---- in areas of common interest to the
Member states.
For two days, ministers of Foreign Affairs and designated officials
will also prepare the agenda of topics that will be analyzed by
the 39th Summit of Heads of State and Government --- on
February 14 and 15, in accordance with the objectives
of the 2063 Program.
____________________________________
Ethiopian soldiers trained in Cuba
in solidarity against US measures
February 11th, 11:17am
(Prensa Latina)
The Granma 72 Association of Ethiopia, made up of officers
trained in various military specialties in Cuba, today -
expressed their solidarity with the Caribbean island
in the face of the intensification of the economic,
commercial and financial blockade imposed by
the United States.
In a letter delivered by Colonel Taye Tsige to the Havana
ambassador in Addis Ababa, Meylín Suárez, the group -
firmly and categorically condemned the unjust policy
that directly affects the Cuban people, violating
their fundamental rights, sovereignty
and development.
They reaffirmed their commitment ---- to truth, justice and
international solidarity, while reiterating their admiration
and respect for the unwavering resistance and dignity
of Cubans.
On January 29, US President Donald Trump signed an
executive order declaring a «national emergency»
due to the alleged «unusual and extraordinary
threat» that, according to Washington, Cuba
represents.. for the security of the North
American country and the region.
The text accuses the Cuban Government of aligning itself with
«numerous hostile countries», to host «transnational terrorist
groups» such as Hamas and Hezbollah and to allowing the
deployment on the island of «sophisticated military and
intelligence capabilities» of Russia and China.
Faced with these baseless accusations, the president of Cuba,
Miguel Díaz-Canel, stated that «this new measure shows the
fascist, criminal and genocidal nature of a clique that has
hijacked the interests of the US people --------- for purely
personal purposes».
___________________________________________________
Foreign Minister of Venezuela
recalls the release of
Nelson Madela
February 11th, 10:29am
(Prensa Latina)
The Foreign Minister of Venezuela, Yván Gil, considered the South
African leader Nelson Mandela as a symbol of the resistance and
victory of the people, remembering today his release from prison
from the apartheid regime.
Gil highlighted that - on February 11, 1990, at the age of 71, the
African fighter was released after spending 27 years in prison,
sentenced to life imprisonment for his fight against apartheid
in South Africa.
The senior diplomat highlighted: that his “liberation marked
the beginning of the end of the racist regime” South Africa.
He noted that, despite his long imprisonment, Mandela prepared
to continue the fight until he won the first democratic elections
in 1994, in which he was elected president.
“Today, Mandela is a symbol of resistance to injustice
and the victory of the people”, he stressed
Mandela, was the first black president elected by universal
suffrage in South Africa (1994-1999), and with its policy of
reconciliation, it managed to overcome practices and
customs rooted after decades of the system of
racial segregation - known as apartheid.
He was imprisoned for almost 30 years for opposing racism,
which made him an icon of that struggle among his
compatriots, the vast majority of the South
African population.
In addition to the head of state, he served as head of the African
National Congress, a party he represented in the executive,
and as general secretary of the Non-Aligned Movement
from 1998-2002.
The South African anti-apartheid fighter won the
Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 and died in
Johannesburg on December 5,
2013, aged 95.
_______________________________
Somali Army: last financier
of Islamist group.... dies
February 11th, 9:50am
(Prensa Latina)
The main financier of the Somali Islamist armed group Al Shabab
(The Youth, in Arabic) died.. during a combined infantry and
aviation operation, according to an official report spread
through social networks taken up today by the press.
The communication identifies the casualty as Abu Usama,
claiming that he was a member of the Shura Council, one
of the people ....closest to Al Shabab's supreme
commander, Ahmed Diriye, and in charge
of raising funds for the group.
Likewise, it adds that the operation that occurred in the southern
region of Lower Shabelle with the participation of “international
allies” which it does not identify.
Despite the discretion of the statement, it is possible to assume
that Türkiye is the international ally, whose authorities
announced days ago the deployment of F-16 fighter
-bombers in Somalia to join their combat
helicopters present in this East
African country.
Such cooperation is presumably related to Ankara's interest in
supporting the extension of Somali central authority to the
entire country, including two separatist regions.
The most disputed of the two is Somaliland, courted by Israel and
the United Arab Emirates, whose governments are interested in
concessions in the port of that territory -- lacking recognition
by the African Union.
__________________________________________________
Africa demands: economic organization
and dropping external dependence
February 11th, 6:14am
(Prensa Latina)
In the midst of the current economic transition that the world is
experiencing, Africa's development cannot depend on external
conditions and must be more organized around its continental
system, an official source warned today.
The executive secretary of the United Nations Economic
Commission for Africa (ECA), Claver Gatete, speaking at
the 48th Regular Session of the Executive Council of
the African Union, explained that trade tensions are
intensifying and supply chains are reorganizing.
Gatete added that capital is becoming more expensive and
development aid, previously considered a predictable
pillar, is decreasing. This --- is aggravated by the
worsening situation, and persistent climate
change, he stressed.
“We are witnessing a transition towards a global economy
organized around industrial strategy, geopolitical
competition and control of key resources. In
short, the rules of development are
changing”, he warned.
For decades, he continued, developing countries depended on
an external model: export materials, imported manufactured
goods, and financing for development through concessional
flows. That model --- is no longer viable, he said.
He specified that, across the continent, African governments
manage a type of fiscal space, with higher growth costs and
limited credit ratings. It is not fair - that today only 3 African
economies have investment ratings, he lamented.
“With five countries ..approaching investment grade, while 19
have never received any ratings, this significantly increases
the risk of African countries paying much more..... for their
development”, he emphasized.
But more than a fiscal challenge, he acknowledged that it is
also structural. When financing is expensive, infrastructure
is built, but when production is limited, industrialization
stagnates.
Meanwhile, he recalled that Africa has land, renewable energy
potential, critical minerals and a young workforce. That is
why the theme of the African Union year —ensuring and
maintaining water variability ....and safe sanitation
systems— to achieve the goals of Agenda 2063,
is so important.
“In Africa, if we want to compete globally, we must go beyond
the export of raw materials. We must process our minerals,
transform agriculture and produce higher value goods.
This is the logic of variation and regional value
chains”, he considered.
In this regard, the executive secretary of the ECA declared --- that
the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) represents the
main continental development platform, allowing production at
scale - and competitive industries. As global trade fragments,
regional integration .....becomes vital.
I am confident that Africa will reindustrialize because our
AfCfTA allows production to be organized internally,
he concluded.
__________________________________________________
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.
_________________________________________________________
