Know Afrika

  China and 26 African nations have committed to enhancing digital sector innovation through strengthened cooperation, as announced at the Forum on China-Africa Digital Cooperation. The event, held on Monday, July 29, in Beijing by the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, highlighted this significant development. Key representatives from both regions gathered to strategize on improving digital infrastructure, policies, and creativity. This joint effort is expected to significantly boost digital capabilities across Africa, laying a solid foundation for future growth and development. Senegal's Minister of Telecommunications, Alioune Sall, expressed optimism about the initiative. "This digital cooperation between China and Africa is a win-win and will benefit our countries, the African continent, and China through the establishment of innovative infrastructures," he said. His comments reflect the sentiments of many African leaders who see this partnershi...

  On Monday, an international rights group accused a paramilitary group engaged in forced and child marriage as well as rape and gang rape of women in war-torn Sudan. The group also attributed a lesser amount of occurrences to the military. More than 15 months of military conflict between the military and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) indicate not to be abating, Human Rights Watch demanded that the United Nations and the African Union form a combined mission to safeguard civilians in Sudan. Laetitia Bader, Deputy Africa Director at Human Rights Watch, said, "The Rapid Support Forces have raped, gang-raped, and forced into marriage countless women and girls in residential areas in Sudan's capital." Declaring that the military had "willingly restricted" shipments of humanitarian goods to RSF-controlled areas, including medical supplies and aid workers, the group also accused both warring parties of limiting survivors' access to needed emergency c...

Currently ruling South Africa, the African National Congress (ANC) has decided to kick former President Jacob Zuma for running a rival party in the May elections. The ruling resulted from the disciplinary procedures against which Zuma had been registered earlier this month. The July 29th dated article claims, “The member who is being charged is expelled from the ANC”. Also indicated is Zuma’s appeal ability within the following twenty-one days with the National Disciplinary Committee. Looking further, the National Disciplinary Committee of the African National Congress (ANC) discovered that Zuma had “contrary to the aims, policies, and objectives of the ANC” activity with another party, therefore betraying the integrity of the party. The MK party has attacked the decision, claiming Zuma will seek advice from his legal team to determine the best line of action. Allegations state that neither Jacob Zuma nor his approved agent had been notified of the outcome, per mandated by the African ...

  Since becoming a democracy in 1990 after a prolonged struggle against apartheid-era South Africa, Namibia has faced legal challenges from opposition parties in every general election. The upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections on November 27 are expected to follow this trend. Despite its political landscape resembling many autocratic governments in the region, Namibia is sometimes regarded as a democratic success story in Africa. The South West Africa People’s Organization (SWAPO), a former liberation movement, has dominated politics for decades, shaping policies and maintaining its grip on the presidency. SWAPO has also implemented regulations that make it difficult to challenge the current electoral system. Investigative writer John Grobler highlights Article 79(2) of the Namibian Constitution, which mandates that any appeal against a presidential election outcome goes directly to the Supreme Court. “As the highest court in the land, if the case is dismissed, there i...

  On Sunday, the African Union convened in Ghana to formulate a unified stance for upcoming engagements with the G20 and the United Nations, and to address pressing issues related to African integration. The summit aimed to enhance collective decision-making, expedite economic integration, and address regional stability concerns. Mauritania’s President and current African Union Chair, Mohamed Cheikh Ghazouani, emphasized the urgency of advancing African unity and economic integration. He highlighted the necessity of accelerating these processes to support the continent’s development and fulfill the aspirations of its people. Discussions at the meeting concentrated on securing sustainable funding for African Union programs, which largely rely on external donations. Participants explored various strategies to establish self-sufficient financial resources and reduce dependency on non-African partners. Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, stressed the impo...

  Kenyan President William Ruto announced the selection of the first eleven members of his Cabinet on Friday, retaining six former ministers in the key areas of defense and interior. This move comes amid widespread demonstrations demanding governmental changes and Ruto's resignation. Last week, Ruto removed all but one minister, signaling his intent to form a broad-based government aimed at addressing the issues driving the month-long protests. Initially sparked by opposition to a finance measure that included increased taxes, the rallies have evolved into broader calls for Ruto's resignation over allegations of poor governance. Despite the Cabinet reshuffle, Ruto retained the former ministers in the interior and defense ministries. However, he has yet to appoint a finance minister, a crucial role given the country's rising public debt and contentious budget. Ruto has defended the proposed taxes as necessary for debt repayment and boosting internal revenue collection. Amid ...

  United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has reiterated the UAE’s commitment to supporting efforts to resolve the ongoing crisis in Sudan. According to the Emirati state news outlet WAM, this statement was made during a phone call on Thursday, July 18, with Sudanese army leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the UAE's eagerness to back all initiatives aimed at de-escalation and crisis resolution, enhancing Sudan’s stability and security. He also highlighted the importance of fulfilling the aspirations of the Sudanese people, whose conflict has significantly hindered their prospects. This conversation underscores the UAE’s dedication to playing a constructive role in Sudan’s peace process, marking a critical moment in diplomatic efforts. The UAE’s active diplomatic engagement reflects its readiness to contribute to improving the situation. The conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) began in April last yea...

  Russia and Ukraine have finished another prisoner swap; the most recent one involved 190 prisoners of war arranged by the United Arab Emirates (UAE). With each other trading 95 detainees apiece, the UAE's sixth successful prisoner exchange this year marks both countries. Announcing the trade on Telegram on July 17, Russia's Defense Ministry said, "The released [Russian] servicemen will be delivered to Moscow by military transport aircraft of the Russian Aerospace Forces for treatment and rehabilitation in medical institutions of the Russian Ministry of Defense." Expressing thanks for the UAE's help, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy also verified the transaction on Telegram. "I am appreciative of our team engaged in prisoners' exchange as well as the United Arab Emirates for enabling the release," Zelenskiy said. "We search for everyone who might be in captivity regardless of difficulty. Everyone needs to be returned. Released Ukrainian ...

  In a massive international operation, police from five continents have arrested 300 individuals and seized $3 million, targeting West African organized crime networks. Operation Jackal III, coordinated by Interpol, took place from April 10 to July 3 across 21 nations, aiming to combat online financial fraud and dismantle the syndicates behind it. Isaac Oginni, director of Interpol’s Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Centre, emphasized the alarming rise of financial fraud originating from West Africa, highlighting the necessity of global law enforcement cooperation. One key target was Black Axe, a notorious crime network involved in cybercrime, human trafficking, drug smuggling, and violent crimes. Investigations into Black Axe, spanning over 40 countries, led to 72 arrests and the freezing of about 100 bank accounts in Argentina, alongside the seizure of $1.2 million in counterfeit currency. The operation involved citizens from Argentina, Colombia, Nigeria, and Venezuela, under...

  Electoral officials in Rwanda have announced that President Paul Kagame has won 99% of the vote in provisional results from Monday’s presidential election. This outcome, with 79% of ballots counted, was expected given Kagame’s long-standing leadership. His rivals, Frank Habineza and Philippe Mpayimana, received less than 1% of the vote combined, mirroring the 2017 election results. Final results are due by July 27. Kagame, in power since the 1994 genocide, faced minimal opposition as several prominent critics were barred from running. Voter turnout appeared high, with 9.5 million of Rwanda’s 14 million people registered to vote. Jean Claude Nkurunziza, a first-time voter, expressed support for Kagame, citing his leadership. Despite criticism of authoritarianism, Kagame is credited with Rwanda’s post-genocide development. In 2015, a referendum removed a two-term limit, allowing Kagame to potentially remain in power until 2034. He cited public demand for his continued leadership. ...

  Monday marks voting day in Rwanda's presidential election, likely extending President Paul Kagame's long rule, which began in 1994. In the capital, Kigali, voters formed long lines at some polling stations, with many arriving as early as five in the morning. "This will be my first time casting a ballot," said passenger motorcyclist Jean Claude Nkurunziza. "I am voting for President Kagame since I have never seen a leader like him before." Out of a population of 14 million, election officials estimate that 9.5 million Rwandans are registered to vote, with provisional results expected later on Monday. The outcome is anticipated to favor Kagame, who is running with little opposition. His rivals, Frank Habineza of the Democratic Green Party of Rwanda and independent candidate Philippe Mpayimana, struggled to gain significant support during their campaigns. In 2017, Kagame secured almost 99% of the vote against the same opponents. On Monday, Habineza told the A...

  Algerian President Tebboune Declared Candidate for Second Term Five years after taking office as the military and establishment-backed candidate amid mass pro-democracy demonstrations, Algeria’s President announced on Thursday his intention to run for a second term. In an interview set to air on Algerian television, the 78-year-old political veteran Abdelmadjid Tebboune said his decision was in response to support from political parties and youth. Highlighting his achievements and the gas-rich North African nation’s security and stability, he stated, “If the Algerian people want to vote for me, that’s fine, otherwise I’ll have accomplished my mission and whoever succeeds me will be welcomed.” Tebboune had previously refrained from declaring his plans even nearly four months ago when the September 7 election date was set. Political analyst Rachid Grime noted that despite his reticence, his ambitions were “an open secret” and his candidacy emerged from discussions among the politic...

  On Wednesday, twelve pupils and their driver tragically lost their lives when their minibus collided with a small truck and caught fire on a Gauteng provincial road. The incident occurred in Merafong, west of Johannesburg, just a day after schools resumed following the winter holidays. Seven other children were injured in the accident. Reports indicate that the minibus crashed into the rear of a small truck, causing it to flip and ignite. Gauteng provincial government officials, including Panyaza Lesufi, visited the scene and the injured children at a nearby hospital in Carletonville. Steve Mabona, spokesperson for the Gauteng education department, confirmed that eleven of the deceased children were from Rocklands Primary School, while the twelfth was from Laerskool Blyvooruitsig in Carletonville. Describing the event as a “horrific accident,” Mabona stated, “the pupils’ transport was hit from behind by a bakkie, causing it to overturn and subsequently catch fire.” The tragedy h...

In response to public criticism over government salaries and the rising cost of living, Liberian President Joseph Boakai has announced a 40% reduction in his annual pay, lowering it from $13,400 to $8,000. This move, aimed at setting a standard for "responsible governance" and showing "solidarity" with the Liberian people, follows a similar pay cut by his predecessor, George Weah, who reduced his salary by 25%. Reactions to the pay cut have been mixed. While some praise the decision, others question its significance since the president still receives perks such as daily allowances and medical care. Anderson D. Miamen from Liberia’s Centre of Transparency and Accountability welcomed the cut but emphasized the need for transparency regarding how the savings will be utilized to benefit the public. W. Lawrence Yealue II, a prominent advocate for government transparency, commended the decision and stressed the importance of leadership by example. He hopes the next budge...

  Advances in Technology in Public Service Delivery Technological advancements have revolutionized the delivery of public services, making many services accessible online. In Nigeria, the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) oversees national identity matters. If you've recently applied for your national identity card, use the NIMC's identity tracking portal to check its status. How to Check Your NIMC Details Online Follow these steps to check the status of your application: Ensure you have a smartphone or computer connected to the internet. Open your browser and go to the official NIMC website. Navigate to the card issuance page. Find and click the status check link near the bottom of the page. Enter your credentials, including your first and last names and NIMC tracking ID. Click the "Check Now" button. Your e-ID status will be displayed on the screen. If your ID is ready, visit the nearest activation center to collect it. NIN Tracking Number in Nigeria To...

  On April 10, 2024, the Nollywood industry mourned the loss of John Paul O’Donoghue, popularly known as Junior Bob. This piece delves into the Nigerian actor’s life, career, and untimely demise, tracing his journey from the vibrant stages to the somber declaration. Background Born on May 7, 1984, in Bamenda, Cameroon, Bob Obafemi Odunodo, widely known as Junior Bob, was a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. His proud parents, Mr. and Mrs. Luke Odunodo, belong to the Okehi tribe in Enugu State, southeastern Nigeria. Junior Bob spent his formative years in Cameroon, where he completed his primary and secondary education before moving to Nigeria. His upbringing in Cameroon provided him with a diverse cultural background that influenced his personal and professional life. This multicultural foundation was integral to his identity and perspective as an actor and public figure. After his education in Cameroon, he moved to Nigeria to pursue his passion for acting, embracing...

  Following his national poll victory on Saturday, Mauritania’s President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani has secured re-election for a second term with 56.1% of the votes in the first round. His main rival, anti-slavery campaigner Biram Dah Abeid, received 22.1% and has challenged the results, alleging fraud. With a voter turnout of 55% from the 2 million eligible voters, the independent electoral commission (CENI) confirmed the results on Monday, pending verification by the constitutional court. CENI spokesman Taghioullah Ledhem reported no official complaints or anomalies so far, though some opposition candidates have questioned the commission's impartiality. The commission's panel, composed of political party representatives and led by a government-appointed president, has faced accusations of collusion with Ghazouani’s administration. Abeid, claiming to be the rightful winner, denounced the interim results as an “electoral coup d’état” and accused the commission of artificially in...

  Following the historic defeat of the African National Congress (ANC) in the recent national election, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa appointed a new cabinet on Sunday night, marking a significant political shift. After weeks of protracted discussions, the ANC, the former ruling party, along with nine other parties, have formed a coalition government for South Africa’s seventh administration. This announcement comes after the ANC’s 30-year political dominance was overturned in the national election. On May 29, the party’s vote share dropped to 40%, losing its legislative majority for the first time since the end of apartheid in 1994. This unprecedented situation forced the ANC to seek coalition partners to form a new government. Reflecting the coalition’s broad-based nature, Ramaphosa’s new multi-party cabinet includes members from various political groups. The ANC retained the largest share of ministerial positions, with 20 of the 32 Cabinet ministers being ANC officials...