The military aggression of the US against Venezuela was also an
aggression against the people of the South and all of humanity,
the secretary general of the Southern Cooperation
Organization (SCO), Sheikh Manssour Bin
Mussallam, denounced today.
When speaking at the event organized by the Cuban embassy
in Ethiopia to pay tribute to the 32 combatants from the
Caribbean island who fell in combat, Mussallam
reflected on positions for or against this
criminal act.
“Today... it is not about knowing if one has political or ideological
affinity with the government of Venezuela or with the Bolivarian
Revolution, nor is it about knowing if one feels a political or
ideological affinity with the Cuban Revolution. It is about
men going on two sides to quote Martí (José) ---- those
who love and found, and those who hate and undo”,
he stressed.
He specified that Secretary of State Marco Rubio's message
on January 3 was also for the rest of the world and, in that
sense, he called for unity ---- in guiding principles around
justice and humanism.
Regarding the 32 fallen Cuban combatants, he emphasized
the need to find strength and inspiration in their example.
He reiterated all his solidarity and condolences and assured
the governments and people of Cuba and Venezuela that,
in search of that utopia of a more just world, and in the
face of criminal attacks, “they will always count on us
in terms of support, friendship and brotherhood ----
in the fight for justice”.
Members of the ambassadors of Venezuela, Colombia, cuban
residents and representatives of the friendship associations
with Havana were present in the heartfelt tribute in which
each white rose and lit candle .......represented each of
the fallen.
____________________________________________
UN warns aboutdisplaced people
and food insecurity --- in Sudan
January 9th, 11:53am
(Prensa Latina)
Around 14 million people were displaced and more than 21 million
suffer from acute food insecurity due to the conflict in Sudan,
the United Nations (UN) warned today.
One thousand days after the hostilities between the Rapid Support Forces militia and the Sovereign Transitional Council, the UN expressed its concern about the situation in that country, where more than 24 thousand deaths and injuries
were reported.
Every day, civilians pay the price for a war....... they did not choose.
Although many have returned to the capital, Khartoum, enormous
challenges and dangers remain, including those arising from
unexploded weapons. In other areas, fighting continues on
multiple fronts, said spokesman for the UN Office for the
Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, Jens Laerke.
In addition, he stated that cities like Kadugli and Dilling
are isolated, in which access to food and medical care
is restricted.
Fighting on the ground and drone actions from the air continue
in Darfur. Long-range attacks on civilian infrastructure far
beyond the front lines were also recorded, he added.
For its part, the UN Children's Fund indicated that, since April
2023, five thousand children were displaced .....and many of
them continued to suffer violence in the places they went.
This entity warned: that children, like
women, are at risk of sexual assault.
We call for -- an immediate cessation of hostilities and call for
concrete measures towards lasting peace. We urge respect
for international humanitarian law and allowing access for
aid teams, Laerke said.
________________________________________
Angolan teachers union could
rule out strike ..after dialogue
January 9th, 8:20am
(Prensa Latina)
The National Union of Teachers (Sinprof) of Angola could rule out
the idea of a teachers' strike for next week, after the round of
conversations with the Ministry of Public Administration,
Labour and Social Security.
The meeting, held the day before, culminated with the signing of a
document that the Executive valued as a consensus on the main
points raised by the teaching staff, but the general secretary of
Sinprof, Admar Jinguma said that the final decision will
depend on the provincial assemblies, Correio
da Kianda reported today.
The meetings, agreed for tomorrow, will evaluate the commitments
assumed by the Government, such as... updating the teaching
categories, the regularization of professional careers, and
the payment of the thirteenth monthly salary in a single
installment, to decide on unemployment.
Government actions - will take place at different times, starting with
the opening of an internal public tender in February, that will allow
--- the regularization of the category of more than 41 thousand
agents of the Ministry of Education, based on the available
salary fund.
Meanwhile, integration into the new categories and professional trajectories will be carried out in 2 phases: the first throughout 2026 and the second in 2027.
Likewise, the issue of decentralization of school budget
management was addressed, which must be directly
administered by educational institutions, which
must occur this year.
This measure - seeks to improve the working conditions
of teachers, since not all schools have the same needs.
Sinprof presented the Government with a list of requests
with 11 points, but after more than six hours of meeting,
consensus was achieved in one part, something that
the provincial assemblies must consider.
__________________________________________
They warn: that almost 140 million
Nigerians --- suffer from poverty
January 8th, 2:16pm
(Prensa Latina)
Former governor of Anambra state Peter Obi warned today that
almost 140 million Nigerians, 62 percent of the population,
live mired in poverty, a serious social problem.
Through a statement, the former government leader pointed out
that such a situation becomes a national failure and a threat to the future development of the country, in the midst of a climate - in which politicians remain obsessed with
power struggles and control of party structures.
Citing data from the World Bank, Obi said that this financial
institution shows that in Nigeria, in recent years, the
number of inhabitants in poverty has increased.
The figure ------- rose from 81 million in 2019 to
just over 139 million in 2025, he emphasized.
Such a scourge - he noted - could have consequences such as
the destabilization of public finances, eroding human capital
and impeding economic recovery “unless we see solid job
creation, productivity growth ---- and effective social
protection programs”.
He also insisted that developing countries such as India and
Indonesia made progress in reducing poverty through
sustained investments in education, health care
and social protection, while, in his opinion,
Nigeria has moved ------- in the
opposite direction.
Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa with about 200
million inhabitants, in addition to the aforementioned evil,
suffers violence ---- caused by the existence of armed
gangs and extremist groups, which operate in the
north and centre of Nigeria's national territory.
___________________________________________
President of African Union
demanded--- immediate
ceasefire in DRC
January 8th, 1:06pm
(Prensa Latina)
The president of Angola and incumbent of the African Union (AU),
Joao Lourenco, today demanded an immediate, unconditional
ceasefire between the parties to the conflict in the
Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
After a visit by the Congolese president, Félix Tshisekedi, the second
so far this week, the Angolan head of state issued a statement on
the situation in eastern DRC, in which --- he expressed concern
about the deteriorating humanitarian and security situation.
The document, shared with the press by the Secretary of the
Presidency for Diplomatic Affairs and International
Cooperation, Víctor Lima, urged the governments
of the DRC and Rwanda, as well as the rebels
of the Congo River Alliance-March 23
Movement (AFC/M23), to respect and
comply with the signed agreements.
In particular, he called for prioritizing a peaceful solution to the
conflict and the safeguarding of the rights and interests of the
populations, in accordance with the Washington and
Doha processes.
Likewise, he called on all actors in the international community
to join in the efforts being made to restore peace and stability
in the DRC.
The text noted that the current situation in the eastern DRC calls
into question the tireless and important efforts made within the
framework of the United Nations Security Council, in particular
Resolution 2173, and within the framework of the Washington
and Doha processes.
He considered that this is the only way to reduce the tension
that persists between Kinshasa and Kigali, and reach an
understanding between the two countries.
Tshisekedi thanked the press for the Angolan president's
commitment to peace in the east of his country, both
during his period as mediator, and at this stage -
as the head of the AU.
The Congolese president, who was in Luanda last Monday in talks
with his Angolan counterpart, did not address the issue of the
proposal that Lourenco made on January 5, about which at
that time... he commented that it was “very interesting”.
Luanda's statement also did not touch on the matter, which must
have been addressed behind closed doors, taking into account
the immediacy with which both heads of state spoke again.
On Monday, after the dialogue, Tshisekedi said that the Angolan
initiative could contribute significantly to the search for a
peaceful solution to the conflict, and specified that it
does not deviate from existing processes, but
rather it seeks to reinforce and complement
the avenues already open.
Although he did not reveal details, he stated that ways to overcome
the problem were discussed, although he acknowledged that it is
a difficult situation. “There are proposals and solutions to work
on”, he said.
_______________________________________
Ninth China-African Union
Strategic Dialogue met
in Ethiopia
January 8th, 10:51am
(Prensa Latina)
The president of the African Union (AU) Commission, Mahmoud
Ali Youssouf, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of China,
Wang Yi, today led the IX Strategic Dialogue between
both parties.
During the occasion, the opening of the Year of China-Africa
People's Exchanges 2026 was also celebrated, said a
statement from the continental organization.
Both sides addressed joint efforts to advance modernization,
global governance, zero tariff treatment, the International
Organization for Mediation and the prospects for peace
and development in the Horn of Africa.
They noted that China and the AU, members of the Global South,
share a broad consensus.... on the important international and
regional issues.
They stressed the importance of jointly safeguarding the legitimate
rights of that region that brings together countries from Latin
America, Africa, Asia and Oceania, while reaffirming their
commitment to supporting each other to protect their
respective core interests and major concerns.
In this sense, they emphasized the need to further strengthen
coordination and cooperation to positively promote peace,
stability and development ------- at the global and
regional levels.
The African Union reiterated its firm commitment to the One China
principle with Taiwan as an inalienable part of that territory.
Likewise, it recognized the Chinese Government as the
only legal authority that represents the entire Asian
giant ------ and strongly supported its efforts to
achieve national reunification.
Both parties expressed their concern about the recent events in
Venezuela and reaffirmed that the sovereignty and territorial
integrity of all countries must be respected, and adhere to
the fundamental principles of the Charter of the United
Nations and international law.
Regarding cooperation and joint actions --- to promote modernization,
they highlighted the importance.. of greater harmonization between
China's XV Five-Year Plan and the Second 10-Year Implementation
Plan of the 2063 Agenda, the commitments of the African Union,
and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.
They agreed to improve communication, coordination and mutual
support in their respective core initiatives, including Agenda
2063 and the flagship projects on Silencing Arms by 2030,
the African Continental Free Trade Area... on the
African side.
On the Asian side, the Global Security, Global Governance
and International Organization for Mediation initiatives.
Likewise, they committed to promoting the effective implementation
of all signed cooperation agreements and memorandums of
understanding, as well as fully exploring the potential for
practical cooperation, between China and the African
Union, with a view to generating tangible benefits
Djibouti, and Kenya, has been confirmed, as well as
Mozambique, Lesotho, Malawi, Brazil and Portugal.
The race will have a route of 10 kilometres - and will award three
prizes to both sexes, consisting of 3,500 US dollars for the first,
2,500 for the second and 1,500 for the third.
In the Master category, the first classified (male & female)
will receive 500,000 kwanzas each, around 456 dollars.
Next week, the arrival of the foreign
participants, is expected in Luanda.
____________________________________
They designate 13.5 million dollars
for a humanitarian emergency
in the DRC
December 25th, 8:14am
(Prensa Latina)
Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher, says $13.5 million
has been allocated -- to address the worsening humanitarian
impact of conflict-induced displacement in the east of the
Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
The money comes from the United Nations Central Emergency
Response Fund (CERF) and around $10 million, will be
distributed for the provision of immediate life-saving
assistance in the DRC, & 3.5 million to strengthen
urgent response initiatives in Burundi, it is
reported today.
According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination
of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) -- since the beginning of
December, the escalation of the armed conflict in
the province of South Kivu, has caused the
displacement of approximately
500,000 people.
This has generated numerous refugee families in overcrowded
public spaces and settlements... or with overwhelmed host
communities; while some 85 thousand people arrived in
Burundi, including Congolese refugees and
Burundian returnees.
The movements of recent days... have overloaded an already fragile
system, with border posts and transit centers operating at almost
double their capacity, where people face severe shortages of
food, water, shelter, protective services and medical care,
OCHA detailed.
“New CERF funds will support the most vulnerable displaced and
host communities in the South Kivu and Tanganyika provinces
of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, focusing on vital
programmes”, he detailed in the note.
He added that in Burundi additional resources will be allocated
to stabilizing conditions in reception centres, reducing
overcrowding, and supporting relocations to the
Bweru settlement, while providing vital help.
________________________________________
Year-on-year inflation in
Zimbabwe falls to 15%
December 24th, 12:23pm
(Prensa Latina)
Year-on-year inflation of the ZiG currency in Zimbabwe fell
to 15 percent in December, the lowest rate recorded
since its introduction in April 2024.
As revealed today by the National Statistics Agency (ZimStat),
the Consumer Price Index (CPI) measured in ZiG showed a
year-on-year increase of 15% until December, which
represents a reduction of 4% compared to the
previous month.
This figure consolidates a sustained downward trend - and
reflects significant progress in the objective of stabilizing
domestic prices... after annual inflation reached peaks
above 95% in the middle of the year, the entity adds.
Likewise, the monthly data for December remained contained
at 0.2%, without variation, compared to November.
The statistical agency detailed that the prices of food and non
-alcoholic beverages increased by 0.6 percent monthly, while
inflation of non-food products remained stable at 0%.
Local economic analysts consider that the year-on-year trend
is the most relevant indicator to evaluate stability, especially
after the strong inflationary rebounds experienced in the
third quarter of 2025.
The current slowdown is attributed to a series of more
coordinated and focused monetary and fiscal policy
measures, implemented by the government and
the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ).
The central bank had set a goal of bringing annual inflation
below 20% by December of this year, relying on restrictive
monetary policy and foreign exchange earnings.... to
sustain stability.
The ZiG coin, launched in April last year, faced initial pressures
that brought its year-on-year inflation to 85.7% in April 2025,
peaking at 95.8% in July. However, the pace of price
growth slowed rapidly thereafter, standing at
32.7% in October.
Officials maintain that the consolidation of this downward trend
has restored stability and is regaining market confidence in
the new currency - which is anchored in gold and foreign
exchange reserves.
_________________________________________________
South Africa ...closes 2025 with
economic and social advances
December 24th, 9:59am
(Prensa Latina)
South African Vice President Paul Mashatile today highlighted
national achievements during 2025 and urged unity in his
Christmas message to the nation.
On the occasion, Mashatile listed several economic progress
achieved this year, including Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
growth of 0.5 percent in the third quarter, marking the
third consecutive expansion.
In this regard, he recalled, the International Monetary Fund (IMF)
revised upwards its forecasts for the South African economy,
placing them at 1.3 percent for 2025, and 1.4 for next year,
which reflects a positive impact of the structural reforms
implemented, in accordance with the Government.
He noted as a milestone the improvement in the credit rating
granted by Standard & Poor's --- the first in two decades, an
indication of renewed confidence in international markets.
In the social sphere, he highlighted the incorporation of 200,000
young people to initial work experiences through the Youth
Employment Service, a key initiative to empower
new generations.
Among the achievements of the administration, the government
leader mentioned the containment of the energy crisis, the
recovery of the tourism sector, better tax collection and
the successful presidency of the Group of 20 (G20).
The G20 summit, held in November, was a historic moment for South
Africa and the African continent, allowing them to advocate for the
priorities of the Global South and strengthen international
alliances, Mashatile said.
The vice president also referred to -- the fight against Gender Violence
and Femicide (GBVF), classified as a national disaster last November.
This decision, he stated, marks the beginning of intensified action
to protect lives and restore dignity.
On the topic, he called for building safe environments in homes,
schools and communities, where women and children
are free of violence.
Finally, in his national message he reaffirmed the African principle of
Ubuntu —»I am because we are»— as the basis of social cohesion
and the collective ability to overcome adversity, asking for
solidarity with those most in need.
By 2026, Mashatile assured that the Government will continue to drive
inclusive development, improve service delivery, support livelihoods
and expand opportunities for South African youth.
________________________________________________
They reinforce road safety in
South Africa during holidays
December 24th, 9:21am
(Prensa Latina)
South African authorities intensify road controls after registering
137 deaths in accidents, during the first 21 days of December,
the Department of Community Safety of the central province
of Gauteng reported today.
The province, the most populous in the country and which
includes Johannesburg and Pretoria, faces an increase
in traffic due to the end-of-year festivities, which
increases the risk on the roads.
Of the total deaths, 68 were pedestrians,
26 drivers and 28 passengers.
According to the official statement, the Johannesburg municipality
reports the highest number with 38 deaths, followed by Tshwane
with 33 and Ekurhuleni with 26. Faced with this situation, the
provincial government increased the deployment of law
enforcement operations.
Actions focus especially on public transport operators, such as
taxis and buses, where deliberate overloading of vehicles is
common. This practice, classified as a crime, endangers
passengers and other road users.
Gauteng's Ministries of Community Safety and Roads and
Transport coordinate the implementation of the road
safety strategy.
In particular, high traffic volumes are expected on major domestic
routes, such as the N1, N3, N4, N12 and N14, due to family and
holiday travel. Roadblocks are already being carried out,
resulting in more than 44 thousand fines imposed.
In these operations, some 1,200 suspects were
also arrested for various traffic violations
and 28 pedestrians.
Operations will continue throughout the festive
period and beyond, to ensure safe travel.
___________________________________
G20 is Word of the Year
in South Africa 2025
December 24th, 7:29am
(Prensa Latina)
The term "G20" was selected today as the 2025 Word of the Year
in South Africa, announced the Pan-South African Council of
Languages (PanSALB).
According to an official statement to this effect, the designation
reflects the deep mark left on the country by the presidency
and venue of the Group of 20 summit, held last November,
a global event that dominated the national public debate.
The winning word prevailed over other significant candidates
such as «Government of National Unity», «Tariffs»,
«Femicide» and «Madlanga Commission», in a
process organized by PanSALB in
collaboration with the media
research company
Focal Points.
For the selection, the frequency of use of words and terms
in prestigious print, digital and audiovisual media was
analyzed, from January 1 to December 2025.
«‘G20’ emerged as the most prominent keyword, due in large part
to South Africa hosting the G20 summit in 2025. These terms
capture the main events and problems that shaped South
Africa in 2025», the institution explained in the text.
In the Social Media Word of the Year category, the winner was
«Valid», a Generation Z slang that denotes that something is
acceptable, legitimate.... or deserves approval. This word
surpassed other popular candidates on digital platforms
such as «Hao Khonahale», «Nonchalant», «Clock it»,
«Nodolozana» and «Ama1k».
The verdict highlights the influence of youth and digital culture
on contemporary language. «Valid» is commonly used to
validate someone's feelings, opinions or experiences,
meaning agreement or support.
Meanwhile, the Sign of the Year in South African Sign Language
corresponds to the sign for «I Love You», which competed
with the signs for ‘so great’, ‘magnificent’
and ‘Constitution’.
The Pan-South African Language Council stressed in the document
that the Word of the Year acts as an essential indicator of the
nation's cultural and social landscape, reflecting the
concerns and issues that caught the attention
of South Africans during the period.
The PanSALB is a constitutional body charged with creating
conditions for the recognition and implementation of
multilingualism in South Africa, and the
development ..........of previously
marginalized languages.
____________________________________
WFP in DRC requested
$67 million ---------- in
emergency funds
December 24th, 6:23am
(Prensa Latina)
The World Food Program (WFP) requested $67 million in emergency
funds for assistance in the next 3 months in South Kivu province, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Radio Okapi, reported today.
The UN agency made the request due to the increase in violence
in this area, as a result of the advance of the rebels of the
Congo River Alliance-March 23 Movement (AFC/M23).
However, the food insecurity situation in the DRC requires much
more financing, according to the WFP, 350 million dollars are
needed to continue its operations in the country.
According to the agency, in South Kivu province alone 2.8 million
people face acute food insecurity ---- including almost a million
who are in an emergency situation; the crisis, furthermore....
“it risks getting worse if urgent measures are not taken”,
warned WFP interim representative in the DRC,
Cynthia Jones.
“Without emergency aid and additional funding, we cannot respond
to a crisis that is on the brink of a food catastrophe”, she stressed.
_____________________________________
DRC government classified support
for the rebels......as manipulation
December 24th, 6:05am
(Prensa Latina)
The Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo
catalogued the marches in support of the rebels of the
Congo River Alliance-March 23 Movement (AFC/M23)
as “political manipulation and collective
hostage taking”.
Through a statement released today by the local press, the
government spokesperson and Minister of Communications
and Media, Patrick Muyaya, said that the population of the
east of the country ---- is forced to organize displays of
support for the insurgents - and reject the pressures
that demand their withdrawal.
The note expressed its rejection of these practices, which they
consider were implemented during the marches registered in
Uvira on December 16, Kamanyola on December 19, Goma
on December 22, and Bukavu and Sake the day before.
They considered that forcing civilians, including women and youth,
to participate in demonstrations in support of an illegitimate
foreign military presence is unacceptable; in addition to
constituting psychological manipulation of the
local communities.
The statement noted that the use of civilians as human shields or
propaganda tools seriously undermines national sovereignty and
constitutes a crime against human dignity.
Likewise, he reaffirmed the Government's commitment --- to the
ongoing peace processes and the protection of the population.
_________________________________
Turkish Interior Ministry..... confirmed the
discovery of wreckage of crashed plane
December 23rd, 9:12pm
(RT.ru)
Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya confirmed the discovery
of the wreckage of the plane carrying the Libyan delegation
that crashed near Ankara.
He wrote about this on social media.
"The wreckage of the plane that departed from Esenboga Airport
in Ankara in the direction of Tripoli was discovered by our
gendarmerie units two kilometres south of the village
of Kesikkavak in the Hayman district,"
the statement said.
Earlier, Türkiye confirmed that in the plane that crashed
near Ankara was the Chief of the Libyan General Staff
--- General Mohammed Ali Ahmed Al-Haddad.
___________________________________________
An Armed Gang in Nigeria --- kidnaps 28 Muslim pilgrims
by Alexey Merkulov
December 23rd 5:46pm
(Rossiyskaya Gazeta)
To share
Armed men kidnapped 28 people, including women and children, who
were traveling to an annual Islamic event in Nigeria's central Plateau
State. Local police officials told the BBC about the incident.
The attack took place on Sunday evening, when a bus carrying
passengers was attacked. Alfred Albo, a spokesperson for the
local police, said that the authorities had "deployed
resources" in the area to rescue the
kidnapped passengers.
The news came the day after the Nigerian authorities announced the
release of the remaining 130 students and teachers from a Catholic
boarding school in Niger State, where one of the country's largest
kidnappings took place. The federal government described it as
a "moment of triumph and relief."
A journalist from the Plateau state told AFP - that the families of the
kidnapped people.... have started receiving ransom demands. The
police have not revealed the identity of the possible perpetrators.
Kidnappings for ransom by criminal gangs known as "bandits" have
become commonplace in northern and central Nigeria. Although
paying ransom is illegal, many cases are resolved in this way
...allowing the gangs to receive money.
This incident is not related to the long-standing Islamist insurgency
in northeastern Nigeria, where groups have been fighting the
government, for over a decade.
Recently, the security issue in Nigeria has attracted international
attention following US President Donald Trump's threat to send
troops to the "now-shamed country" with "guns blazing,"
accusing it of persecuting Christians. The Nigerian
federal government has acknowledged the
security concerns but has denied any
deliberate targeting of Christians.
On Monday, the Information Minister Mohammed Idris, said that
the recent tensions with the US over security and the alleged
persecution of Christians were "mostly resolved," leading to
a strengthening of relations with Washington. He added
that trained and equipped units would be deployed to
protect the forests and remote areas of Nigeria
that are used by criminals as hideouts from
the operations of the country's regular
armed forces.
____________________________________
The Malian army has destroyed four terrorist
bases in Niaré-du-Sahel in the west of Mali
by Alexey Merkulov
December 23rd, 5:38pm
(Rossiyskaya Gazeta)
To share
The Malian Armed Forces (FAMa) have destroyed four terrorist
bases in the Nioro-du-Sahel region in the west of the country.
The army announced this in a press release.
FAMa clarified that the bases were
located near the regional capital.
"On Monday, December 22, 2025, FAMa aircraft carried out strikes
on the bases of armed terrorist groups in the Niort-du-Sahel
region," the military said in a statement. According to the
military, the operation to destroy four terrorist bases
was carried out as part of the escort of a convoy
of fuel tankers.
"The air force also struck several positions of armed
terrorist groups in Kolondié and Wakoro,"
FAMa added.
Earlier in December, Mali's Armed Forces destroyed
several terrorist bases in the Sikasso and
Timbuktu regions.
_____________________________________________
Ibrahim Traore warned of an attempt to
--- repeat the "Arab Spring" in Africa
by Alexander Gatsak
December 23rd 5:08pm
(Rossiyskaya Gazeta)
To share
Burkinabé President Ibrahim Traoré --- has pointed to the possibility
of a repeat of the "Arab Spring" scenario in Africa. The president's
comments came during a summit of the Alliance of Sahel States,
a community that is fiercely fighting for its independence from
external neo-colonial influence.
As Traoré noted, the events of 2010-2012 shook the geopolitics of the
Middle East and North Africa, leading to catastrophic consequences
in many cases. He urged the continent's inhabitants to "wake up"
and prevent such developments.
According to the leader of Burkina Faso, West Africa and the ideology
of Pan-Africanism itself are threatened by the "Black Winter" - which
is caused by the ambitions of imperialists from former metropolises.
Here, the president is primarily referring to France and Britain,
which, with the exception of a few territories, divided the
continent during the colonial period.
"We should unite and protect ourselves. We are moving forward
calmly ------- and will achieve our goal," said Ibrahim Traoré.
Recall that the "Arab Spring" was marked by a number of revolutions,
civil wars, uprisings and protests that took place under cliched
slogans about "protecting democratic values". Then --- as a
result of mass unrest, hundreds of thousands of citizens
were killed.
______________________________________________
Lack of funds compromises care for refugees in Ethiopia
December 22nd, 9:10am
(Prensa Latina)
The Refugee and Repatriate Service (RRS) of Ethiopia and United Nations agencies warned today that the lack of financing puts the response to more than 1.1 million refugees in the country in danger.
A joint statement from the RRS, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the World Food Program (WFP) specified that, without an immediate injection of funds, essential life- saving services, including food, water and healthcare, will cease within weeks.
The text specified that.... Ethiopia, the second largest host country for these people in Africa, registered an increase in arrivals due to the conflicts in Sudan and South Sudan, as well as the drought in Somalia.
However, he added, severe funding shortfalls --- have already forced aid agencies to reduce emergency aid supplies by 70 percent in 2025.
RRS Director General Teyiba Hassen said Addis Ababa fulfilled its commitments to protect refugees, but this great responsibility cannot be borne by the government alone.
“Our resources are stretched to the limit, and the pressure on host communities is becoming unbearable. At this critical time, immediate international support to share this burden.... and avoid humanitarian catastrophe is a necessity”, he asserted.
For her part, the UNHCR representative in the country, Aissatou M.Ndiaye, assured that the current situation -- is unprecedented and deeply alarming.
“We have reached a critical moment where the choice we make now will determine whether Ethiopia's refugee response collapses, or becomes a model of resilience, inclusion and long-term solutions”, he stressed.
The statement reported that ---- last October, WFP had to reduce food rations for 780,000 refugees... to just 40% of the standard duty, providing less than a thousand calories per day. Currently ----- only 70,000 newly arrived refugees... receive full rations.
“We are urgently asking for 90 million dollars to maintain operations for the next six months”, declared the representative of that UN program and country director, Zlatan Milisic.
The cuts caused a sharp increase in malnutrition, which now exceeds 15 percent in refugee camps, mortality rates among newborns and children under one year of age increased to 4.7% in 2025, and admissions for malnutrition doubled compared to last year.
WFP analyzes project that reducing rations from 60% to 40% will quadruple the number of families consuming poor diets, from one in 10 households to four in 10.
______________________________________________
Construction costs -- increase in S. Africa
December 22nd, 27:48pm (Prensa Latina)
Construction materials prices in South Africa registered a year-on-year increase of 3.7% in November --- with significant monthly inflationary pressures in electrical and metallic components.
According to the national statistical authority, Stats SA, the Construction Input Price Index (CIPI) experienced a monthly increase of 1.6 percent in the period, highlighting pronounced increases in specific sectors.
The 3.7 percent annual change reflects sustained cost pressures for the construction sector.
Among the items with the highest monthly increases, the statistical entity lists.. the group of electrical installations stands out, whose index shot up 4.0 percent.
That behaviour was mainly driven by the rise in prices of 7.9 mm copper bar (6.0 percent) and 99.7 EC grade aluminum products (4.3 percent cent), raw materials with a combined weight of 70% in that area.
Similarly, the index for aluminum metal roofs rose 3.9%, influenced almost entirely by the same increase in the price of aluminum. These data confirm considerable tension in the markets for basic non-ferrous metals for the industry.
On the other hand, adds Stats SA, other segments presented decreases that moderated the general index.
Thus, the ceiling category fell 1.4 percent, due to drops in the prices of ceiling plates (-1.9 percent) and steel for light sections (-7.2 percent).
Likewise, the brick and block masonry group fell 2.5% affected by a 5.5% drop in the price of clay bricks.
On the other hand, the index for mining and construction machinery registered a year-on-year increase of 4.4% with a minimal positive monthly variation of 0.1 percent.
In the field of engineering, inputs for electrical engineering showed strong pressure, with a year-on-year increase of 8% and a monthly jump of 4.2% in November, the highest of all monitored segments.
Civil engineering materials, for their part, maintained monthly stability, although they have accumulated an increase of 7% in the last twelve months --- which indicates significant inflation in this sector..... in the medium term.
Sector experts pointed out --- that the marked divergence between the prices of electrical and metallic materials ...compared to the stability or fall in other items, reflects the current global dynamics of raw materials and specific supply chains.
South Africa foreign trade prices with divergent trends
December 22nd, 5:56m
(Prensa Latina)
The unit value index of South African exports showed year-on-year growth of 5.5 percent in October, while imports fell 0.2 percent in the same period.
In this regard, the national statistics agency, Stats SA, revealed favourable price dynamics for the products that the country sells abroad, contrasting with a relative reduction... in the cost of the goods purchased. In monthly terms, the export index advanced 0.4% from September to October, while the importer fell 0.9%, the entity detailed.
According to its most recent report, the metal products, machinery and equipment sector emerged .....as the main driver of the increase in exports.
This item contributed 6.5% to the total year-on-year result of 5.5%, registering an increase of 13.8% in its unit value. It was also the biggest driver of the monthly increase, up 1.3 percent.
On the import side, adds Stats SA, the negative evolution was led by the fall in crude oil prices, whose decrease of 13.4% in the last year subtracted 1.1% from the general index.
Other transportable goods also had an impact, with a year- on-year decrease of 1.6%. That same group was the main factor in the monthly contraction of 0.9%, decreasing by 1.3% between September and October.
According to local analysts, the divergence of the analyzed indices suggests an improvement in the terms of trade for the South African economy in the period analyzed, which constitutes a positive factor for the trade balance.
The authorities expect that the trend in non- traditional exports will remain a pillar of the national economic recovery.
________________________________________
Elite police force, example of
Ethiopian security reforms
December 22nd, 4:53am
(Prensa Latina)
Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh affirmed today that
the creation of an elite force endowed with specialized and
strategic capabilities within the Ethiopian Federal Police is
powerful testimony of the reforms undertaken in security.
This was expressed by Tiruneh, on his social networks after
participating the day before in the graduation ceremony of
the Command Police (Elite Police Force), the first to
receive complete training from the Academy of
that command for internal order with its
institutional resources.
“Through comprehensive and sustained reforms, the Ethiopian
Federal Police has been transformed into a professional and
modern institution: a firm guardian of constitutional order,
highly competent in both operational experience and
advanced technology and firmly rooted in the trust
of the people it serves”, he asserted.
He assured that this elite force has unique capabilities to quickly
and decisively neutralize complex and constantly evolving
security threats.
He stressed the crucial responsibility to prevent and suppress
terrorist activities and serious crimes that endanger national
sovereignty, peace, and the security of our citizens.
He expressed confidence in his historic mission to guarantee the
peaceful, democratic and credible holding of the next national
elections scheduled for June 1, 2026, as well as the success
of international and continental events such as the 32nd
United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP32)
in 2027.
“To the graduates of this elite force: you are symbols of the unity and
sovereignty of the Ethiopian people. I entrust to you the solemn duty
to safeguard the nation and its constitutional order ---- against any
threat, with unwavering loyalty, discipline and professionalism”,
In contrast, setbacks were reported in business services
(- 12,000, - 0.5%), manufacturing (- 5,000, - 0.4%) and
construction (- 4,000, - 0.7%).
In the year-on-year comparison, according to the report,
total employment decreased by 79,000 positions,
which represents a drop of 0.7% compared to
September 2024.
On the other hand, full-time employment decreased by 21,000 positions (- 0.2%) in the quarter, going from 9,426,000 in June --- to 9,405,000 ....in September.
The reduction was concentrated in business services (-18,000,
- 0.8%), manufacturing (- 4,000, - 0.3%), community services
(- 3,000, - 0.1%) and trade (- 3,000, - 0.1%).
On the other hand, mining added 5,000 jobs (1.1%) and
construction 1,000 (0.2%). In annual terms, full-time
employment fell by 72,000 positions (- 0.8%).
Part-time work showed a different behaviour, with an
increase of 50,000 positions (4.6%) in the quarter,
going from 1,094,000 in June to 1,144,000
in September.
The advance was due to community services (42,000,
9.5%), commerce (8,000, 3.3%) and business
services (6,000, 2.5%).
However, adds Stats SA, construction lost 5,000 jobs (- 7.2%)
and manufacturing lost 1,000 (- 1.2%). In the annual
comparison, partial employment was reduced by
7,000 positions (- 0.6%).
In terms of incomes, gross remuneration amounted to about
53 billion USD in September, which represents an increase
of 1.1% compared to June.
The increase was explained by higher payments in business
and community services, mining, manufacturing, electricity
and construction, while transportation and commerce
reported decreases. In the annual comparison,
salaries grew by 155 billion USD, equivalent
to 3.2%.
Core wages rose by $113 billion (0.9%) in the
quarter and $154 billion (3.5%) for the year.
In addition, bonuses rose by 45 billion USD (10.9%) compared to
June and 16 billion USD (3.7%) compared to September 2024.
In contrast, overtime payments fell by US$24 billion (- 11.1%)
in the quarter and US$14 billion (- 6.9%) in the year.
Finally, the Stats SA report reveals.. that the average monthly income was the equivalent of 1,560 USD in August, with an increase of 0.3%, compared to May and 4.3% in the year-on-year comparison.
_________________________________________________
Chancellor defends Europe
and supports solution in
Western Sahara
December 10th, 12:10pm
(Prensa Latina)
The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Spain, José Manuel Albares,
today defended the sovereignty of Europe against criticism
from the United States, at the same time, he considered
a solution on Western Sahara.
Appearing at his own request before the Congress of Deputies,
Albares stressed that Europe «has to take a leap -- in its
sovereignty. We Europeans are the ones who have
to defend the integrity” of the continent.
Without explicitly mentioning US President Donald Trump in his
repeated criticism of Europe, the head of Spanish diplomacy
stressed the need to consolidate European sovereignty,
at the same time, he regretted the silence of the
right of the Popular Party (PP) and Vox on this
issue and about Gaza & Ukraine, issues
addressed by Albares, expressing
Spain's support for Palestine..
and the Ukrainian people.
On the other hand, he maintained that the Western Sahara
conflict cannot continue another half century unresolved
and sought Spain's absolute support for the UN and a
recent Security Council resolution.
«In the Sahara, a pending issue that has lasted 50 years,
we cannot allow another half century like it», said
Albares, underlining his support “without
hesitation - for the United Nations».
A position that is not endorsed by the Polisario Front,
which considers the right of the Sahrawis to their
independence and sovereignty of their territory
in Western Sahara ------- non-negotiable
_______________________________________
Cuba and Malawi celebrate
diplomatic ties
December 10th, 10:03am
(Prensa Latina)
Today Cuba, together with the people and government
of the Republic of Malawi, celebrates the 28th
anniversary of the establishment of
diplomatic relations between
both nations.
«Our country reiterates its willingness to continue working
to strengthen ties of friendship between both countries
and establish bilateral collaboration», the island's
Foreign Ministry expressed on social network X.
Both countries established diplomatic relations
on December 10, 1997 and their ties show
positive results.
In the Antillean nation, scholarship holders from that country
in southeastern Africa have graduated from medical school,
which has always supported Cuban resolutions in the
United Nations --- against the US blockade.
________________________________________
Rebels in the DRC - took the
city of Uvira, near Burundi
December 10th, 9:13am
(Prensa Latina)
The rebels of the Congo River Alliance-March 23 Movement
(AFC/M23) took the city of Uvira today, in the province of
South Kivu in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
According to Radio Okapi, the city, which after the fall of
Bukavu into the hands of the AFC/M23 last February
was designated as the provisional capital of the
province, it did not resist the insurgents,
supported by the Rwandan army.
Several witnesses confirmed to the media the visible
presence of rebel groups on the main roads of the
city, while others...... were heading towards
Kavinvira, on the border with Burundi.
This Wednesday, the city woke up under the control of the
DRC Armed Forces, but around noon the rebels entered
without encountering resistance. Well, according to
local sources, the Congolese army had already
withdrawn the day before, in the direction of
Swima, Makobola and Baraka, in the
territory of Fizi.
Some shots were reported in areas where fighters from local
militias called Wazalendo were still visible; while Burundi's
Foreign Minister Edouard Bizimana confirmed at 1:00 p.m,
local time, that the border between both countries
remained open.
The most recent report of the United Nations Group of Experts
on the DRC ensures that the AFC/M23, supported by Rwanda,
has the objective of achieving autonomy in the areas it
controls in eastern Congo - which is reflected in its
entrenchment strategy and the establishment of
a parallel government - in occupied territories.
“Since April 2025, AFC/M23 has intensified its efforts to
consolidate its military control through increased
recruitment, improved military training, and the
coordinated redeployments of troops and
operations - in North and South Kivu”,
the report stated.
In July this year, the movement's permanent secretary
and chief negotiator in Doha, Benjamin Mbonimpa,
declared that they were proposing federalism
as a form of governance.
____________________________________________
Unicef warns -- of worst cholera
outbreak in 25 years in the DRC
December 10th, 7:19am
(Prensa Latina)
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) warned
of the persistence now of an unprecedented cholera
outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo,
considered the worst in 25 years.
Since January 2025, more than 64 thousand people were
affected by this disease ---- with almost 1,900 deaths
recorded, where children represent a significant
proportion of the sick and deceased, with
14 thousand and 340, respectively.
According to Unicef, one in four Congolese children has been
hit by cholera, and they pointed out as an example of the
seriousness of the crisis -- that 15 minors died in a
single community home in Kinshasa.
The lack of drinking water and sanitary infrastructure continues
to be the main cause of the epidemic, noted the agency's report,
which mentions other factors that make the panorama more
complex, such as conflicts, displacement, heavy rains
and unplanned urbanization.
They also accused.. a lack of information and delays in access
to medical care, which causes an increase in mortality rates.
Unicef meant that, despite the Multisectoral Plan for the
Elimination of Cholera and the Cholera-Free Congo
River initiative, resources to stop the epidemic
are insufficient.
They added that the UN agency supports emergency
interventions, improvements in public hygiene and
specific actions in sources of infection, but by
2026 its financing is insufficient, hence the
call to the Government and international
partners to urgently increase their
support ..to avoid a further loss
of life.
_____________________________________________
Collapse of two buildings in Morocco leaves about 20 dead
December 10th, 6:03am
(Prensa Latina)
The collapse today of two adjacent buildings in the Moroccan
city of Fez left 20 dead, although this number may rise while
rescue efforts continue.
The authorities indicated that over 15 serious
injuries have also been reported..... so far.
The buildings, with four floors each, were located in the
Al Mustaqbal neighbourhood, and eight families lived
there, the sources added.
Rescue teams are already working in the area to remove
the victims from the rubble and transport the injured.
According to the Moroccan state news agency, MAP, residents
in several nearby houses were also evacuated due to the risk
of collapse, and at the moment the causes of the tragedy are
unknown, as Fez is a city with a moderate level of seismic
activity, according to specialists.
_____________________________________________
Conflictsand food security, centre for African entity on 2025
by Nara Romero Rams
Chief correspondent in Ethiopia
December 10th, 12:17am
(Prensa Latina)
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD)
had intense work in 2025 in favour of resolving internal
conflicts through dialogue, food security and stability
in the Horn of Africa.
The situation in South Sudan captured part of the attention
of an African entity, being the centre of several meetings
with the parties involved, regional actors and
international partners who reaffirmed the
Revitalized Agreement on Conflict
Resolution (R-Arcss) of 2018 as
a cornerstone of the peace
process in that country.
Last March, the final declaration of the forty-third Extraordinary
Summit of Heads of State and Government of the IGAD, held
virtually to address the evolving situation in Juba, it was
stressed that dialogue and debate -- remain the only
means to resolve differences.
The entity expressed deep concern about the deterioration
of security conditions in that nation, characterized by the
resurgence of violence, the increase in violent incidents,
and violations of ceasefire commitments.
Likewise, alarms went off due to growing tensions in the
South Sudanese capital and elsewhere at the time,
after the Nasir incident and the arrest of senior
military officials ---- and the South Sudan
People's Liberation Movement party.
It condemned the death of the commander of the South
Sudan People's Defense Forces in Nasir, General
Majur Duk, and others, including a UN team
during the evacuation.
The statement urged the parties to immediately de-escalate
tensions, adhere to the permanent ceasefire, as well as
prioritize and accelerate the application of transition
security provisions by providing the necessary
resources in a timely manner.
As an agreement, the Monitoring and Verification Mechanism
for Ceasefire and Transitional Security Provisions --- would
carry out an investigation into the clashes in that town
and the attack on the helicopter from the UN ---- to
determine the facts and ensure responsibility
for any violations.
Finally, he welcomed the grassroots peace talks and
encouraged religious and traditional leaders, and
civil society -- to support reconciliation actions,
advocate for the inclusion & empowerment of
women, youth and other under-represented
groups in society.
The extraordinary summit was attended by senior
representatives from Djibouti, Ethiopia, Somalia,
Kenya, Uganda, the African Union, observer
mechanisms and special envoys of the
regional entity, from the African
continental organization and
the UN, to South Sudan.
To follow up on what was agreed, the executive secretary
of IGAD, Workneh Gebeyehu, made a working visit to
South Sudan days later, during which he held
meetings with local authorities about the
peace agreement.
Gebeyehu chaired a meeting with the presidents of the
Joint Commission for Monitoring and Reconstituted
Evaluation, Maj Gen Charles, and from the Cease-
fire Verification and Monitoring Mechanism and
Transitional Security Agreements, Major
General Hailu Gonfa, to discuss the
report ...on the implementation of
the ceasefire agreement in Juba.
CRISIS IN SUDAN, ANOTHER PENDING TASK
Since the outbreak in April 2023 - of clashes in Sudan over
power issues between Army Chief Abdel Fatah al-Burhan,
and the leader of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces,
Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, the situation focused several
meetings at the regional and continental level.
Thus, on February 14, the High-Level Humanitarian Conference
for the people of Khartoum took place, organized by Ethiopia,
the African Union, the United Arab Emirates and IGAD.
The objective of the meeting was to mobilize international
support and humanitarian assistance for that country ----
that faces the main displacement crisis on the planet,
according to experts, with over 14 million people
out of their homes, while the death toll rises
to more than 24,000.
The event held at the Africa Hall was attended by UN Secretary
General António Guterres and outgoing President of the
African Union Commission Moussa Faki Mahamat,
the president of Kenya, William Ruto, the prime
minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed, and
Gebeyehu, plus other delegations.
Subsequently, on March 18, the IGAD Special Envoy Forum met
in Ethiopia with the aim of establishing a unified and concrete
approach to the resolution of the conflict in Sudan.
Gebeyehu, at that time, reaffirmed the regional entity's
commitment to a peace process led and assumed
by the Sudanese.
AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT, REGIONAL IMPERATIVE
From January 9 to 11, Uganda hosted the Extraordinary Summit
of Heads of State and Government of the African Union on the
Comprehensive Program for the Development of Agriculture
in Africa (CAADP), focused on shaping the post-Malabo
continent's agri-food systems agenda for 2026-2035.
The executive secretary of IGAD led a high-level delegation
that reiterated its commitment to regional food security,
sustainable agriculture and building resilience.
With an eye toward that purpose, Gebeyehu participated
in discussions focused on critical challenges and
opportunities in the Horn of Africa region,
including improving agricultural
productivity, cooperation on
food systems & addressing
climate change impacts.
A key focus for the delegation was to align
the organization's regional priorities with
the broader Caadp agenda.
With its participation in the conclave, IGAD strengthened
its alliances with AU member states and development
partners, in addition to taking advantage of the
results of the summit...... to advance
their agenda.
Since its creation in 2003, the Caadp has been a cornerstone
of Africa's agricultural transformation by promoting efforts
to achieve a 6% annual growth rate in the sector, in
addition to encouraging AU Member States to
allocate at least 10% of their budgets
to agriculture.
Based on the 2014 Malabo Declaration, the program's agenda
is focused on eradicating hunger, reducing malnutrition and
building resilient agricultural systems.
Looking inward..... at the end of July, the ministers and heads of
delegation responsible for Agriculture and Food Security, of the
IGAD Member States (Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South
Sudan and Uganda) met in Ethiopia... within the framework of
the Balance of the United Nations Summit on Food Systems.
In this space, IGAD highlighted the need --- to explore
transformative, inclusive and sustainable solutions
to guarantee food security in the Horn of Africa.
Gebeyehu recalled that the region is rich in
agricultural potential, genetic resources
and the ingenuity of its people.
He specified that promoting strategic alignment and
collective action - as well as developing a common
set of priorities to guide policy reform, investment
and collaboration - are among the priorities.
He considered that the adoption of the joint statement
reaffirmed the shared vision and political will to take
bold and coordinated action, including investment
priorities, to establish institutional monitoring
mechanisms and forge alliances between
multiple stakeholders.
This would ensure “that our commitments translate into
real impact for the millions of people whose lives and
livelihoods depend on the food systems we shape”,
he said.
The enormous and largely untapped potential of the Horn
of Africa region for agricultural transformation and
innovation in food systems was recognized,
particularly in terms of seed safety,
agrobiodiversity and climate-
smart agriculture.
Likewise, in the sustainable management of land and water,
digital technologies, early warning systems and inclusive
and responsible investment.
He raised the need to transform agricultural systems and food
value chains by enabling precision agriculture, improving
predictive analytics, optimizing resource use --- and
strengthening data-driven policies and planning.
Between internal conflicts, combating the effects of climate
change and achieving the long-awaited food security, the
Intergovernmental Authority on Development closes
another year betting on economic growth, political
and social, of the over 140 million inhabitants
of the Horn of Africa.
______________________________________________
South Africa - raises more than
$600 million for infrastructure
December 9th, 12:01pm
(Prensa Latina)
South Africa's National Treasury announced today that its
first Infrastructure and Development Bond raised around
$620 million to finance strategic works.
According to an official statement to this effect, the operation
aroused broad interest in the markets, receiving offers
exceeding 1.37 billion dollars, which represented
a subscription rate of 2.2 times.
According to the entity, resources will be directed exclusively
to the Budget Facility for Infrastructure (BFI) program, a
mechanism that supports priority projects through
rigorous selection criteria.
The total amount was distributed over two maturity periods:
about $368 million in the RI2036 bond, with an interest rate
of 8.575 percent, and about $252 million in RI2041, with a
return of 9.13 percent.
The allocation was made in accordance with current market
conditions, with the objective of optimizing the State's
borrowing cost.
According to the statement, the issue is part of a set of reforms
outlined in the 2024 Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement,
aimed at stimulating investment in infrastructure as an
engine of economic growth and improvement in
the provision of public services.
The Treasury highlighted that the strategy seeks to consolidate
long-term financing instruments capable of attracting private
capital towards projects of national interest.
During 2025, the government reconfigured the BFI to
open 4 annual bidding windows, instead of just one.
This change allows national ministries, provinces, municipalities
& state companies to request partial support for their projects,
in order to attract complementary financing from the private
sector. According to the authorities, the measure expands
the scale and quality of the public works portfolio and
strengthens business participation in its execution.
______________________________________
Nigerian minors held
captive by criminals
are ''rescued''
December 9th, 11:13am
(Prensa Latina)
A third of the 303 students of a Catholic school in the state
of Niger, northern Nigeria, kidnapped in November along
with several teachers -------- are safe today, their
relatives reported.
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu praised the action of security
forces in rescuing the captives of armed men, whom he
identified as «bandits» - although he refrained from
providing details of the operation that achieved
the release of the kidnapped people.
While their captivity lasted, small groups of minors took
advantage of the carelessness of their captors, to
escape and ....after traveling several kilometres
of thick jungle, returned to their loved ones.
This is the first major operation by the Nigerian armed forces
just over a week after the resignation of Defense Minister
General Mohammed Badaru Abubakar - for unspecified
reasons, although it is obvious, that the increase in
insecurity in the north of the country, is behind
the decision of the Military Chief.
Unlike similar actions by Islamist groups based in the north-
eastern state of Borno... the kidnapping of minors from the
school in the town of Papiri, the largest in a long sequence
of similar events in this West African country, its purpose
was to demand a cash ransom for one of the gangs that
have proliferated for years in northern Nigeria.
In the case of the Islamists --- they seek to overthrow
the central government ---- and establish a caliphate
governed by sharia ---- Muslim jurisprudence.
________________________________________
Flights between Johannesburg and
Perth - will boost tourism and trade
December 9th, 11:06am
(Prensa Latina)
The launch of a new direct Qantas Airways flight between
Johannesburg and Perth -- was received with optimism
today by South Africa's authorities, who highlighted
its impact on tourism and commercial exchange.
In this regard, the Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille,
stressed that this air connection represents more
than an expansion of the route network --- by
constituting a bridge between two nations
with historical ties ........and growing
opportunities for cooperation.
According to him, the initiative opens the door to a greater
flow of visitors, business and interpersonal relationships
between South Africa and Australia.
This criterion was shared by those attending the presentation
of the new route, also chaired by the Australian Minister of
Commerce and Tourism, Don Farrell, High Commissioner
Tegan Brink, as well as executives from Qantas, South
African Tourism, the Gauteng Tourism Authority and
the South African Tourism Business Council.
De Lille pointed out that the expansion of air connectivity
constitutes an essential pillar of the 2025-2029 Tourism
Growth Plan, focused on facilitating access through
new routes, more agile visa systems and the
elimination of travel barriers.
Recent sector data.. reflects a sustained recovery: international
seating capacity reaches 8.5 million, an increase of 9.1 percent
compared to 2024. Of these, 4.6 million correspond to long-
range routes and 3.9 million to regional routes, with
double-digit growth recorded since June 2025.
In this context, the Australian market ------ shows a positive
performance: arrivals in 2025 grew nearly 30% compared
to the previous year and exceed pre-pandemic levels by
10%, showing sustained expansion.
De Lille also highlighted that the new link will play a relevant
role..... in South Africa's preparation to host major sporting
competitions, such as Cricket World Cup 2027, creating
stronger cultural and sporting ties... with Australia.
__________________________________________
UN report ---- accuses: presence ofseven
thousand Rwandan soldiers in the DRC
December 9th, 8:05am
(Prensa Latina)
A new report from the Group of Experts, created by the UN
Security Council, it indicated the presence in the territory
of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) of some
7,000 Rwandan soldiers, they reported today.
According to this source, the Rwandan Defense Forces were
conservatively considered to maintain at least 2 brigades
& 2 special forces battalions in the Congolese provinces
of North Kivu and South Kivu, in support of the rebellion
of the Rio-Congo Alliance March 23 Movement -----
(AFC/M23).
The report, referenced by Actualité.CD, added that these men
and media are positioned on the front line and participate
directly in the combat, in particular leading operations
against the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of
Rwanda in the territories of Nyiragongo
and Rutshuru.
They added that they are units created specifically for cross-
border operations in the DRC, which include elements of the
special forces and a significant number of reservists.
The report meant that an FDR brigade operated within the
AFC/M23 “First Defense Zone”, which encompassed
Goma, Nyiragongo, Binza, Bwito, Rutshuru, as
well as Kanyabayonga, Kirumba and Kipese.
Another brigade operated in the “Second Defense Zone”,
corresponding to Masisi, Walikale, Bibwe, Kalembe,
along the Pinga front line ....and in areas of South
Kivu such as Walungu, Mwenga and Minembwe.
The source indicated that Rwandan troops established a base
on the island of Idjwi, often used for troop deployments and
rotations across Lake Kivu, and that the support of these
units was crucial to the success of the operations,
particularly for the capture of new areas such
as Bibwe.
He also specified that they operated in separate formations,
despite joint maneuvers with the AFC/M23, and exhibited
distinctive movement patterns and accents, which
made them easily identifiable on the ground.
“The Group continued to document the FDR's use of
advanced military technologies and equipment,
including jamming and phishing systems”,
the report noted.
__________________________________________
New clashes in the DRC
leave at least 74 dead
December 9th, 7:34am
(Prensa Latina)
The escalation of clashes in the last week in the Democratic
Republic of the Congo, in the province of South Kivu, today
it leaves at least 74 dead and 83 injured, mainly civilians,
according to a United Nations report.
The UN humanitarian coordinator in the DRC, Bruno Lemarquis,
denounced an alarming rise in violence due to confrontations
between the rebels of the Congo River Alliance-March 23
Movement (AFC/M23) and the Congolese Armed
Forces and their allies.
In particular, he referred to the attacks carried out between
December 2 and 7 with heavy weapons and bombings in
populated areas, mainly in the territories of Uvira,
Walungu, Mwenga, Shabunda, Kabare, Fizi and
Kalehe; while the continuity of the fighting -
prevents the evacuation of the wounded.
He indicated that in recent days attacks on civilian
infrastructure, including schools, have also been
reported, which constitutes a serious violation
of international humanitarian law.
“I am deeply shocked by the devastating impact of this
fighting on the civilian population. It is imperative to
prevent more victims from adding to the already
tragic death toll”, Lemarquis' statement said.
He added that the use of explosive weapons in populated
areas and attacks on civilian infrastructure are causing
unacceptable loss of life and must stop immediately.
“Civilians and civilian infrastructure are not
targets”, he declared.
According to the humanitarian coordinator, this wave of
violence caused new displacements of people, with an
initial estimate of more than 200,000 moving within
the same province since December 2nd, while
thousands more... crossed the border into
neighbouring countries, like Burundi
and Rwanda.
Living conditions for these people are precarious, with
overcrowded shelters, increased risk of gender-based
violence, spread of disease and limited access to
medical care; hence -- these displacements
aggravate the situation ------ in a province
that hosts 1.2 million internal refugees.
“On behalf of the humanitarian community, I urge all
parties to the conflict to respect their obligations
----- under international humanitarian law”,
Lemarquis emphasized.
He added that the protection of civilians --- must be
guaranteed, their distinction respected in military
operations and the safe, rapid and unimpeded
access of humanitarian actors to provide
vital assistance -------- must be ensured,
including medical care for the injured.
The increase in war actions occurs after the ratification of
the Peace Agreement signed in Washington, US, by the
presidents of the DRC and Rwanda, on December 4.
The humanitarian coordinator, highlighted the importance of
the instrument to achieve peace, “but for this hope to come
true, the violence must stop immediately and the
commitments made must be translated into
concrete actions on the ground”,
he stressed.
___________________________________________
South Africa presents
national study on
HIV stigma
December 9th, 7:19am
(Prensa Latina)
South Africa today presents a report that examines the
persistent challenges and opportunities for positive
change - in the face of stigma and discrimination
towards people living with HIV.
The document - HIV Stigma Index 2.0 - collects the
experiences of over 5,000 participants in the nine
provinces of the country, with special attention
to 18 urban and rural districts.
According to an official statement to this effect, their
findings seek to guide public policies and programs
aimed at improving the quality of life of those
facing the disease.
The presentation will take place at the National
Research Foundation, under the leadership of
the National Association of People Living
with HIV and AIDS (NAPWA), in
collaboration with the Human
Sciences Research Council
(HSRC), the National AIDS
Council (SANAC) --- and
international partners.
Ministry of Health Senior representatives, civil
organizations and affected communities, are
expected to attend ----- with the purpose of
discussing the study's recommendations.
The report highlights the importance of community
initiatives and a multi-sectoral approach to
tackling discrimination.
According to its authors, the active participation of
communities is essential to dismantle prejudices
and guarantee equitable access to health
services and social support.
Recently, during the commemoration of World AIDS Day,
Vice President Paul Mashatile highlighted the
introduction of lenacapavir, a long-acting
preventive treatment that offers six
months of protection - with just
two injections a year.
The South African Medical Devices Regulatory Authority
(SAHPRA) approved its registration in October this year,
making the country the first in Africa and the third in
the world -- to authorize it.
Mashatile said this innovation will protect adolescents and
key populations facing stigma and vulnerability, such as
women and girls, people who use drugs, sex workers
and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
At the same time, he urged the nation to bravely confront
stigma, fund research, and ensure that these treatments
reach everyone.
Specialists consider that the launch of the Stigma Index 2.0
represents a decisive step in building a more solid national
response, which combines science, political commitment
and social participation to move towards a South Africa
free of discrimination and with greater health justice.
_____________________________________________
They highlight the contribution
of Cuban combatantsto the
independence of Angola
December 8th, 11:48am
(Prensa Latina)
The contribution of Cuban combatants to the independence
of Angola ----- was highlighted today at the event held in
Luanda, in commemoration of the 69 years of the
Armed Forces Revolutionaries (FAR) of the
Caribbean nation.
In the presence of the Cuban ambassador, Oscar León,
Lieutenant General Manuel Payva, representing the
Chief of Staff of the Angolan Armed Forces....
deeply thanked the island ----- and stressed
that the bilateral relationship transcends
cooperation and is based on friendship.
He added that this brotherhood and solidarity were forged in
the heat of struggle and shared sacrifices, and reiterated,
half a century after the arrival of Cuban internationalists
to Angolan lands, eternal gratitude.... to those who
resisted side by side with the people --- to fight
forces that tried to frustrate independence.
“Cubans were by our side, in the most difficult moments, not
only soldiers, but teachers, doctors, builders….. it is an epic
like no other that will remain alive in our collective memory
and will be an inspiration for new generations”, he said.
Payva expressed common interest in strengthening the bilateral
relationship and expressed solidarity with the people of the
Caribbean nation - in the face of the damage caused by
Hurricane Melissa.
The military attaché of the Cuban Embassy in Angola, Colonel
Enrique Kindelán, recalled the history of the emergence of
the FAR, in 1956, in the heat of the fight against the
tyranny of Fulgencio Batista (1952-1958).
He pointed out that since the triumph of the Cuban Revolution,
on January 1, 1959, the FAR has always been with the people
facing the aggressions of the US and difficult times, like the
current emergency situation caused by the recent passage
of a tropical cyclone.
He affirmed that Cuba will continue to be a bastion of solidarity,
as demonstrated here in Angola, and recalled milestones of
the Cuban military presence for, along with the Angolans,
defend the independence and territorial integrity of
the country.
He also dedicated words to the founder of the FAR and historical
leader of the Cuban Revolution, Fidel Castro, who next year
commemorates the centenary of his birth, and he invited
us to celebrate the date together, but above all ------ to
keep his ideas alive.
The general secretary of the Federation of Former Combatants
and Veterans of the Homeland, Brigadier Vicente Junior, also
participated in the event, expressing total solidarity with
Cuba and its sister army, with which they shared the
defense of the national territory.
Representing the Forum of Ex-Combatants.... of the Battle of Cuito
Cuanavale, Manuel Fernández Patiasca recalled his participation
in the battle of Kifangondo, in 1975, and where the participation
of the Cubans was decisive ----- in rejecting the invading forces
and declaring independence.
At the ceremony, where Lieutenant General Remígio do Espirito Santo,
second commander of the Angolan Army, was also present; members
of the diplomatic corps; military attachés and members of solidarity
organizations with Cuba, the Embassy presented recognition --- to
the Kifangondo Battle Memorial.
___________________________________________
UN condemned death
of civilians in Sudan
December 8th, 10:47am
(Prensa Latina)
The UN today condemned recent drone attacks by the so-called
Rapid Support Forces in the Sudanese state of South Kordofan,
which caused the death of dozens of children.
Through its official website, the United Nations also denounced
the attacks against emergency teams trying to help the injured.
In a statement released by spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric,
the secretary general of the multilateral organization,
António Guterres, expressed his dismay at the
actions against a hospital and a children's
centre, as against the members of the
humanitarian assistance brigades.
For his part, the director general of the World Health Organization,
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, denounced that the Kalogi Rural
Hospital was attacked on at least three occasions, with a
death toll of 114, including 63 minors.
We make urgent calls for blood donations and other types of medical
support. Alarmingly, paramedics and response personnel were
attacked while trying to transport the injured from daycare
to hospital, he added.
The UN warned -- that the situation in Sudan is catastrophic, and expressed concern.. about millions of people - trapped in the fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary group.
The terrible human rights violations and abuses reported in El Fasher
in recent months ------ must not be repeated in the Kordofan region.
We urge: the immediate cessation of fighting and of stopping
the flow of weapons, Dujarric said.
The Secretary-General renews his call on the parties to agree to an
end to hostilities - and resume talks to achieve a lasting ceasefire
and a comprehensive political process, inclusive and controlled
by the Sudanese. The United Nations stands ready to support
genuine measures to chart a path to peace, he said.
_______________________________________________
Women of the world marched
through Western Sahara
December 8th, 8:50am
(Prensa Latina)
Dakhla is a city in Western Sahara occupied by Morocco, which
has its correlation in a Refugee Camp of the same name, the
furthest from Rabuni... where the central administration of
the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic operates in exile.
The streets of the Dakhla Camp received the IV March of the
International Women's Platform for Western Sahara, PIMSO,
with the participation of delegations from Africa, Europe
and Latin America, an inspiring feat of solidarity ------
for a just cause.
For the first time, a delegation of women from the territories
occupied by Morocco participated in this demonstration.
This solidarity action has been carried out since 2022
and, on this occasion, was framed in the 50 years of
resistance of the Sahrawi people ----------- for their
self-determination.
The program of activities began on Monday, December 1 and
included visits to educational, cultural, health centres, and
political organizations, of human rights --- and of women
located in the different camps of the refuge.
The agenda ended on Saturday, December 6, with a farewell
ceremony...... led by Brahim Gali, president of the SADR.
“You return to your countries full of will, determination, firmness
of support and accompaniment to these people in their long
struggle” said the president ...before the many different
delegations present.
And he added: “We have opened our houses, our families' houses.
But before we open our houses to you, we have opened our
hearts to you. That is the essence and we have always
considered you part of the family. We have never felt
that you are foreigners within the Sahrawi people”.
For her part, Suelma Beiruk, Minister of Social Affairs and Promotion
of Women of the SADR, stated that the objective of the PIMSO is to
accompany the struggle of the Sahrawi people, especially to
women, breaking the blockade that exists, bringing the
voice of Sahrawi women... to international bodies.
During the activities of the march, there were also interventions
by the governor of Auserd, Jira Bulahi; Ana Aranda, councilor
of Pedrera; Mariam Bendiba, president of the National Union
of Algerian Women of southern Algeria, and Nebija
Mohamed Ahmed, member of the Collective of
Sahrawi Human Rights Defenders in Western
Sahara, CODESA.
Salha Boutanguiza, a journalist in the Occupied Territories,
also shared her opinions; Marilin Dos Santos, Head of
Feminisms at Podemos (Spain); and Teotiste
Pérez Sanz, for PIMSO.
From Argentina, the Venezuelan journalist and poet Dayana
López, arrived at the Camps, who shared her poetry in
tribute to the 50 years of resistance of the Sahrawi
people, compiled in his most recent book «My
hammock in your tent».
Before leaving for the actions of supportive women, Dayana
López made by hand, weaving the pages, copies of the
collection of poems that she carried in her backpack
to distribute, as the most authentic expression of
ONE UNION Two weeks before Brexit, the African Union
announced a new single African passport that permits holders to enter any of the 54 AU member states without a visa – an interesting turn in African history which NO-ONE in the West knows or cares about ! What a stunning reflection of how far our mindset and media are, from the 'world community' we say we love.
__________________________________
The above is one reason why Rhondda Records is devoting this page to Africa - and there are so many other reasons!
Here are two - one bad - one good.
I was stunned, when I read a year or so ago, that 40% of Africa has no regular electricity supply! How could this be?
And, second, Africa is not only the Mother of the human species... it is, now, becoming the hope of the new multipolar world.
