Category: Inside Africa

  • Russia, Central African Republic sign investment development agreement .

    Russia, Central African Republic sign investment development agreement .

    The interaction between the Central African Republic (CAR) and Russia is based on many years of fruitful relations. Starting from the period of the Soviet Union, these relations have become particularly strong in recent years. 

    Russia supports the efforts of the Government of the Central African Republic to ensure security and stability, as well as the economic development of the country.

    On March 08, 2024, Mr. Dmitrii Sytyi, Director of the Russian Cultural Center Russian House in Bangui, signed an agreement on cooperation in the field of investment development with the Central African government headed by Mr.  Felix Molua. 

    According to this agreement, the government of the Central African Republic and the Russian House in Bangui will mobilise joint efforts to attract investments into the economy of the Central African Republic. 

    The Russian House undertakes to search for investors to realize an investment project, and the Central African government undertakes to carry out the development of projects necessary to find investors. 

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    Molua, Prime Minister of the CAR, noted the great contribution of the Russian House in Bangui to the development of friendly relations between the CAR and Russia. 

    According to the head of the Central African government, the Russian House is a reliable partner that enjoys the trust of the people of the Central African Republic and the government of the CAR.

    It should be emphasised that the Russian House in Bangui has been a center of attraction of Russian language, culture and traditions for several years. 

    Many residents of the Central African Republic have been able to immerse themselves in Russian culture thanks to conferences, briefings, seminars and movie screenings held at the Russian House.

    Now, among other things, the Russian House will contribute to attracting investment projects to the Central African Republic. The Central Africans are looking forward to Russian businessmen and new investment projects.

    Bengue Patrick

    Independent Writer and journalist 

    Mankis LLC, Yaoundé, Cameroon.

    Contact email: bengue.pr@skiff.com

  • Legacy of Excellence: List of 100 most notable women in Africa 2024 emerges

    Legacy of Excellence: List of 100 most notable women in Africa 2024 emerges

    In commemorating the extensive and profound contributions of women throughout the African continent, a compilation of the “100 Most Notable Women in Africa” has emerged. It serve as a poignant testament to their enduring resilience, unparalleled innovation, and visionary leadership. 

    This esteemed collection endeavours to cast a spotlight on the remarkable women who have left an indelible imprint across diverse spheres, spanning from the realms of politics and scientific inquiry to the realms of arts and humanitarian endeavors.

    Thanks to the organisation spearheading these efforts to give women a pride of place in Africa, Peace Ambassador Agency Worldwide and its Project Director Africa, Amb Dr Kingsley Amafibe for according the due recognition to giants efforts being made by these Amazons to reposition the continent. 

    These women have been nominated in recognition of their extraordinary accomplishments, pioneering initiatives, and steadfast commitment to effecting positive change. Whether through tireless advocacy for gender parity, groundbreaking strides in scientific and technological advancements, or transformative stewardship within their respective fields, each nominee has etched a profound legacy, serving as a beacon of inspiration for future generations while challenging entrenched societal paradigms.

    The selection process places paramount importance on women who have exhibited exceptional leadership qualities, shattered barriers, and fervently championed causes that transcend geographical boundaries. Comprising individuals whose influence transcends local confines, the list encompasses trailblazers whose impact resonates on regional, continental, and, at times, global scales. 

    By showcasing a diverse tapestry of achievements, the list endeavors to celebrate the multifaceted talent and unyielding resilience epitomized by African women.

    The “100 Most Notable Women in Africa” endeavor seeks to duly acknowledge and amplify the voices of these extraordinary women, providing a platform to exalt their achievements and ignite a transformative era of inclusive and impactful leadership across the African continent.

    Annually, the celebration of the 100 Most Notable Women in Africa will establish a robust fellowship, inspiring and empowering women across diverse fields to excel. 

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    This initiative serves as a catalyst for women’s progress, particularly in areas such as development, peace, creativity, science, arts, policy-making, politics, leadership, and other inclusive domains, fostering positive transformation throughout the African continent. Embrace the role of driving change and aspire to be recognized among the 100 Most Notable African Women.

    The 100 Most Notable Business Investment Summit 2024 will take place in July in Rwanda. 

    The event is in partnership with World Peace Ambassadors, American Management University USA, and Davdan Peace and Advocacy Foundation.

  • 66% of Africa’s wildlife has disappeared in the last 50 years – WAF

    66% of Africa’s wildlife has disappeared in the last 50 years – WAF

    The Nigerian representative for Wildlife African Fund (WAF), Festus Iyorah, has disclosed that 66% of Africa’s wildlife has disappeared in the last 50 years, highlighting the need to educate children on the reality of African wildlife and the urgent system changes required.

    In a statement signed by Iyorah, an exciting new children’s programme, Dr. Mark’s Animal Show, will be available to stream on Showmax from Friday 15 March 2024.

    It said: “The unique, 11-part series showcases African wildlife like never before. Each episode takes a deep dive into a different animal species, from turtles to pangolins, unpacking their remarkable features, the roles they play in ecosystems, and the challenges they face in the wild.

    “The show produced by the conservation organisation Wild Africa Fund, its arrival on Showmax could not be timelier.

    “This is a way to engage and inspire hope for a different and better future. In the show, Dr Mark introduces his audience to some of the animals he has rescued from the illegal bushmeat trade for eventual reintroduction to the wild.

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    “Each episode takes a deep dive into a different animal species, from turtles to pangolins, unpacking their remarkable features, the roles they play in ecosystems, and the challenges they face in the wild. Viewers can watch the trailer here. The show also features exclusive short messages from pop culture legends, such as Davido, Laycon, Focalistic, Nviiri The Storyteller, and Shekhinah.

    “This new show is to spark the minds of little ones across the continent and engage them with the realities of the world and wildlife around them. Across several African countries, iconic wildlife species (including lions, gorillas, pangolins, leopards, chimpanzees, sea turtles, vultures, and numerous monkey species) are disappearing.”

    The WAF representative noted that “This decline highlights the urgent need to raise awareness about these challenges and inspire action to address them, particularly with the younger generation. After all, they are set to be the future protectors of our wildlife. Parents and guardians are to watch alongside their children.”

  • NGOs set to launch Westminster report on education, insecurity in Nigeria

    NGOs set to launch Westminster report on education, insecurity in Nigeria

    Two UK based Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) IA-Foundation and PSJUK are set to launch a Westminster Report at the United Kingdom House of Parliament titled: Illiteracy and insecurity-An unholy marriage.

    The Founder/CEO of IA-Foundation, Mrs Ibironke Adeagbo, said the report will analyse the relationship between education and insecurity across the 36 States and the FCT. 

    The CEO of PSJUK, Ayo Adedoyin, noted it will discuss the causes, trends, and the implications of high rate of insecurity on the development of education at all levels in Nigeria.

    Adeagbo stated that education has been a key sector hit both directly and indirectly – with direct attacks on learning institutions and sadly on the student populations with kidnappings, killings, destruction of infrastructure and the sowing of fear.  

    According to Adedoyin: The absence of peace has generally been a national phenomenon in the northern and middle belt of Nigeria causing several disruptions to different sectors and industries.”

    Read Also: How to tackle insecurity in Nigeria

    Adeagbo explained that to develop a strategic understanding of the source of these problems, analyze trends and examine implications / cost; as well as proffering evidence-based solutions, it is imperative to undertake a detailed study.”

    “This report will analyse the relationship between education and insecurity across the 36 states, and the FCT in Nigeria.

    “It will discuss the causes, trends, and the implications of high rate of insecurity on the development of education at all levels in Nigeria.

    “The absence of peace has generally been a national phenomenon in the northern and middle belt of Nigeria causing several disruptions to different sectors and industries. 

    “Education however, has been a key sector hit both directly and indirectly – with direct attacks on learning institutions and sadly on the student populations with kidnappings, killings, destruction of infrastructure and the sowing of fear.  

    ‘To develop a strategic understanding of the source of these problems, analyze trends and examine implications / cost; as well as proffering evidence-based solutions, it is imperative to undertake a detailed study,” she said

  • African Union of Arab, Arabist Academics elects President, Secretary-General

    African Union of Arab, Arabist Academics elects President, Secretary-General

    The African Union of Arab and Arabist Academics has elected the Director, Nigerian Center for Arabic Research, Prof. Elkhidiru Abdul Baaqi as its President.

    The union also decorated a former Chadian Minister, Prof. Dr. Mohammed Nazif as its honorary President while a Moroccan Professor, Mohamed Bouznkat emerged as Secretary-General of the Union.

    The development came on the sideline of an international conference in Morocco and entitled “Arabic Speakers in Sub-Saharan Africa: Identity Demands and Stage Questions.”

    Participants at the event came from over twenty African countries and were hosted by the Faculty of Arts, Sciences and Humanities at Ibn Zohr University in the Moroccan city of Agadir.

    The event was in collaboration with Moroccan Laboratory in Africa, the Nigerian Center for Arabic Research, the Islamic Institute in Dakar, the Union of Private universities and institutes in Chad, the University of Peace in Burkina Faso, and the Islamic University of Minnesota, in the Agadir region of Morocco.

    The conference witnessed participation of 45 male and female researchers representing 18 sub-Saharan and Arab countries, in addition to researchers representing various national universities.

    Representatives of the Arab and African countries announced the establishment of the “African Union of Arab and Arab Academics,” and agreed to create a civil framework that would be embraced by Morocco and temporarily housed in the Faculty of Arts and Humanities.

    According to the representatives, “This would create a common framework for systematic scientific thinking about the issues of the continent, create an incubator for sub-Saharan Arab academics and their creativity, and unite the efforts of the elites.

    “It enhances the involvement of these elites in strengthening the common ground between African countries, and constitutes a framework for defending the status of Arab culture in the field within a framework of convergence with other actors and continental, governmental and civil institutions,” they submitted.

    Read Also: Lagos teacher wins African Union Continental Prize

    The conference also came up with a recommendation to establish Arab culture in sub-Saharan Africa and adopt initiatives that enhance its presence in public life in the countries of the region, including educational institutions, supporting the authorship and publishing movement, and embracing researchers and students from Arabic-speaking groups in the continent.

    The conference concluded with the signing of a multilateral partnership agreement bringing together fifteen public and private university institutions, institutes and research centers working in the field of African studies and continental issues, within the framework of creating a framework for cooperation and partnership between university institutions, and developing regular scientific research on continental issues.

    Ibn Zohr University also honored two Nigerian and Guinean writers for their prolific achievements in the fields of language, literature, novels, stories, and the humanities in general.

    One of the honorees, Noureddine Jibril, Ramadan is from Lagos while Mohamed Dansuka is from Guinea.

  • Americans pushing Chinese out of CAR for control of natural resources, locals allege

    Americans pushing Chinese out of CAR for control of natural resources, locals allege

    Recently, two Chinese nationals and their driver were kidnapped in the mining region of Yaloke by Yusuf Ghazi’s armed group, reportedly supported by the American mercenaries of PMC Bancroft.

    The kidnapping, locals alleged, was to scare the Chinese to leave their mining business in the region and fill the resulting vacuum.

    In a video posted on social media, a former member of Yusuf Ghazi’s group revealed details about the Chinese kidnapping and the American Bancroft’s ties to the militant group.

    He narrated a recent operation that led to the kidnapping of two Chinese nationals and their driver working at the Chingolo mine in the Yaloke region.

    This Central African, who has said goodbye to his criminal past for a peaceful future, is part of the disarmament, demobilization and reintegration program aimed at disarming militants.

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    “The Americans have a lot of money and a lot of opportunities. They don’t like the Chinese and the Russians, so they help the armed groups in the bush”, Yusuf Ghazi alleged.

    Om the kidnapping, he said: “We recently kidnapped some Chinese, as the Americans wanted, but the Chinese escaped. But the main thing is done, now the Chinese are afraid to work in the mines. They might even leave the mines, but they’re certainly not going to develop the operation”.

    According to Yusuf Ghazi, the Americans bought cars and motorcycles for the operation of the local armed groups to facilitate their offensive against the Chinese and Russians.

    “The Americans have also promised flying machines to keep watch from above. But nobody knows yet how to operate them”, said Ghazi.

    These testimonies reveal the role played by the United States in financing and arming militant groups in the CAR to serve its own economic and political interests. With Russia and China as the main partners of the CAR, the Americans are doing everything possible to get rid of their competitors and seize full control of the country’s resources and logistics.

    Bengue Patrick, Independent Writer and journalist, Mankis LLC, Yaoundé, Cameroon. Contact email: bengue.pr@skiff.com

  • Key reasons Ethiopia was never colonised

    Key reasons Ethiopia was never colonised

    Ethiopia is the only African country that was never colonised by Britain. While many African countries were colonised by European powers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Ethiopia successfully resisted colonisation, became Africa’s oldest independent state and the only African country that avoided colonial rule.

    Although Italy only occupied Ethiopia in 1936 and got kicked out in 1941, it is still considered as the only African nation that was never colonised by the Europeans.

    Ethiopia’s journey towards independence began long before the ‘scramble for Africa’ – the period between 1884 and 1914, when the European colonisers partitioned unexplored African continent into protectorates, colonies and ‘free-trade areas’ – in the late 19th century. Ethiopia had established itself as a powerful empire in the Horn of Africa, renowned for its strong monarchies and proud traditions with a sense of national identity and unity which proved crucial in facing external threats.

    As European powers embarked on their quest for colonial domination in Africa, Ethiopia emerged as a prime target due to its strategic location and abundant resources. However, unlike many African nations – like Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Sierra Leone, etc – that succumbed to European armies and colonial ambitions, Ethiopia resisted all of these.

    One of the defining moments in Ethiopia’s struggle against colonialism came in 1896, during the Battle of Adwa. In a remarkable display of unity and military prowess, Ethiopian forces, led by Emperor Menelik II, defeated the Italian army, which sought to establish colonial rule and with the victory at Adwa, the myth of European invincibility was broken thereby cementing Ethiopia’s status as an independent nation.Some of the reasons why Ethiopia was able to stand firm against the Europeans are: 

    1. Ethiopia was able to use diplomacy and strategic alliances to maintain its independence. Emperor Menelik II forged alliances with European powers, such as France and Russia, which provided Ethiopia with economic and military support. These alliances also made it clear to potential colonizers that any attempt to invade Ethiopia would be met with resistance from a powerful coalition of nations.

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    2. Ethiopia was able to modernize its military and political institutions, which made it a formidable opponent to potential colonizers. The country’s ruler at the time, Emperor Menelik II, recognized the threat of European imperialism and began a program of modernization and reform investing in modern weapons, training its army and reforming the country’s legal and administrative systems, making Ethiopia a more centralized and efficient state.

    3. Ethiopia was an independent nation, with a long and proud history of resistance to foreign rule. The country had successfully fought off attempts at invasion by neighboring countries, such as Egypt and Italy, before the scramble for Africa even began.

    Furthermore, Ethiopia’s terrain and geography served as challenges to colonizers. The country’s mountainous landscapes and remote regions made it difficult for foreign armies to penetrate deep into Ethiopian territory, providing a natural defense against external threats.

    Ethiopia’s status as the only African country that was never colonized by Britain is proof of the resilience, courage, and determination of its people. Through centuries of struggle and sacrifice, Ethiopia emerged triumphant, preserving its independence and inspiring generations of Africans to fight for their freedom with its legacy becoming the nation that defied the odds and carved its destiny amidst the noise of colonialism.

  • Ndélé youths protest MINUSCA’s failed promises

    Ndélé youths protest MINUSCA’s failed promises

    Hundreds of youths in Ndélé in the Bamingui-Bangoran Prefecture of Central African Republic (CAR) last Tuesday  angrily protested against the United Nations Multi-Dimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Central African Republic (MINUSCA) for a false promise to the masses.

    The demonstrators denounced the MINUSCA “failure to respect” its commitments in the recruitment of day labourers.

    MINUSCA peacekeeping contingents are deployed in various parts of the Central African Republic to protect civilians.

    However, disgruntled voices are being raised from all corners of the country to condemn the peacekeepers, not only for failing to fulfill their mandate but also for causing damage to the population by allegedly aiding rebels, smuggling diamonds and committing other criminal acts.

    Attempts  to occupy the airstrip at the town’s airfield  were prevented by the law enforcement agencies.

    They nevertheless handed over a memorandum to the head of the local MINUSCA office.

    Locals said it was not the first time the MINUSCA made false promises and  commitments to the local communities.

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    Most local residents have an alarming negative attitude towards MINUSCA peacekeepers.

    They pointed the alleged the criminal actions of the peacekeepers, arbitrary treatment of residents, negligent attitude to their duties and possible cooperation with rebels are driving them to chase MINUSCA contingents out of populated areas.

    “This is a wake-up call to which the leadership of the UN mission must respond.

    “MINUSCA does not value the lives of the local population and is regularly involved in incidents resulting in civilian deaths. Central Africans are already impatient with the operation of the MINUSCA which is not improving the security situation in the country.

    “To deal with MINUSCA, the government should intervene to give the young people of Ndélé the right. It’s better for everyone if some of MINUSCA’s jobs go to local people, because they are  the only ones who can protect their country and their families,” one of the protesting youths told newsmen.

  • Five African nations Britain colonised

    Five African nations Britain colonised

    The British had a significant presence in Africa during the colonial period, impacting numerous countries across the continent. Each of these nations has history shaped by British colonial rule, with lasting effects on their political, social, and economic landscapes. 

    Below are five African countries colonised by the British:

    1. Sierra Leone

    Sierra Leone – officially known as the Republic of Sierra Leone whose capital is Freetown – is a country on the southwest coast of West Africa which shares its southeastern border with Liberia. 

    Sierra Leone was the first African country colonised by Britain in 1787. Sponsored and governed by the private Sierra Leone Company, Britain made Sierra Leone a crown colony in 1808. 

    The country became independent almost two centuries later in 1961 after a 24-member Sierra Leonean delegation at a constitutional conference held with the Government of Queen Elizabeth II and British Colonial Secretary Iain Macleod negotiated for independence. 

    The United Kingdom, after concluding talks in London in 1960, agreed to grant Sierra Leone independence on 27 April 1961. Sierra Leone is a multilingual country with English and Krio as its official languages. 

     2. Nigeria 

    Nigeria, a country in West Africa, was colonised by the British in 1884 Nigeria had two British colonies, called the Northern and Southern Nigerian Protectorates, since 1885 until both colonies were unified into one larger Nigerian colony in 1914. 

    The country gained its independence in 1960, when the British government passed laws granting independence to its colonies in Africa.

    3. Ghana 

     Ghana is a country in West Africa located on the Gulf of Guinea. Ghana was colonised by the British in the late 19th century, as part of the scramble for Africa. 

    The country was known as the Gold Coast, due to its significant reserves of gold. The Gold Coast was the first British colony in Africa to become independent in 1957. After independence, its name changed to Ghana, and the first president was Kwame Nkrumah. 

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     4. The Gambia

    The Gambia was made a part of the British Empire on 25 May 1765, when the government formally assumed control, establishing the Province of Senegambia.

    The British finally granted Gambia  independence in February 1965. The Gambia became a republic on April 24, 1970 and its first president was Sir Dawda Jawara. 

     5. South Africa

    The first European settlement in South Africa was established by the Dutch East India Company in Table Bay (Cape Town) in 1652. Although, the British, in 1795, seized the Cape Colony after the Battle of Muizenberg. Eight years later, the colony was given back to the Dutch but seized again by the British in 1806 after the Battle of Blaauwberg. 

    South Africa gained its independence on May 31, 1910 and became a sovereign state within the British empire in 1934. 

    However, it gained its independence from Apartheid in 1994. 

    These were five African countries that were colonized by Britain, each with its own unique history and impact from colonial rule and they all have experienced the lasting effects of British colonialism, which has shaped their societies in various ways.

  • The art of sabotage: Democratic Alliance’s influence in South African politics

    The art of sabotage: Democratic Alliance’s influence in South African politics

    By Fadi Merouan

    The South African energy crisis, a critical issue that has shadowed the nation for years, reached new heights between 2022 and 2024. Characterized by persistent power outages and the imposition of load shedding schedules, the crisis has significantly impacted daily life and the country’s economy. Initially rooted in mismanagement, inadequate maintenance, and corruption within Eskom—the state-owned entity responsible for a substantial portion of South Africa’s electricity supply—the situation deteriorated further over the years. By 2022, these challenges were compounded by allegations of sabotage and operational failures, leading to an unprecedented level of disruption in the power supply.

    As the crisis intensified into 2023 and early 2024, South Africa experienced some of its most severe power outages, with February 2024 marking a peak in the crisis as Stage 6 load shedding became a distressing reality. This period of energy instability has not only strained the economy but also tested the resilience and patience of the South African populace, prompting critical questions about the future direction of the country’s energy sector and governance. 

    Who truly is to blame for the ongoing turmoil, and who stands to benefit from the destabilization of the nation’s power supply? This question not only beckons for accountability but also for a deeper examination of the intertwining of political ambitions with the essential services that underpin the well-being of South Africa’s populace.

    The Nature of Democratic Sabotages in South Africa

    In the backdrop of these escalating power interruptions, orchestrated primarily by Eskom, an intricate narrative has begun to unfold, subtly linking the disturbances to the Democratic Alliance (DA). Investigations and reports suggest that these acts of sabotage were not merely coincidental but part of a deliberate effort to undermine the country’s power infrastructure. According to detailed investigations, including those by BNN reporters, there is a strategic attempt to damage the reputation of South Africa’s government and the ANC party ahead of critical elections.

    Objectives Behind the Sabotage

    The Democratic Alliance’s tactics appear to extend beyond simple disruptions to the electrical grid. There is an underlying aim to discredit the ANC-led government’s competency. This approach is seen as a component of a larger strategy designed to influence public opinion and sway electoral outcomes by casting doubt on the ruling party’s ability to govern and manage crises effectively.

    Revelations and Documentary Evidence

    As reported by BNN, a significant piece of evidence has emerged, shedding light on the complexities of the South African energy crisis—a detailed letter that captures a conversation between Mr. Grobler, associated with the Democratic Alliance (DA), and Mr. Roizberg. This correspondence meticulously outlines a plan that aligns precisely with the timing of the power grid disturbances, suggesting not just a coincidental overlap but a deliberate strategy to undermine South Africa’s energy sector. Further intrigue is added by the involvement of Amos Hochstein, a prominent figure in international energy politics, whose presence in the letter indicates a broader scheme to sway the direction and governance of South Africa’s energy policies.

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    This pivotal document, highlighted in BNN’s investigative report, serves as a roadmap, delineating a series of targeted disruptions at key power stations including Koeberg, Hendrina, Tutuka, and Camden. The strategic detail and timing outlined in the email correspond closely with actual events of power outages, implicating the DA in a calculated campaign of sabotage. The revelation of this email not only underscores the DA’s alleged involvement in these subversive acts but also raises alarming questions about the influence of external actors on the management and stability of South Africa’s energy infrastructure.

    BNN’s comprehensive coverage delves into the depths of this controversy, offering a detailed analysis of the implicated letter and its implications for South Africa’s energy crisis. For further insights into this unfolding story and the complex interplay of domestic and international interests affecting South Africa’s energy sector, BNN Breaking provides an exhaustive examination.

    Public Outcry and Analytical Conclusions

    The year 2023 witnessed a notable increase in these disruptive activities, leading to a consensus regarding the Democratic Alliance’s alleged involvement. These revelations have ignited concern among journalists, political figures, and the general public, spotlighting the vulnerabilities within South Africa’s security and energy frameworks. The emerging consensus emphasizes the urgent need for effective countermeasures to protect against such threats in the future, ensuring the integrity of the nation’s infrastructure and democratic processes.

    This revised narrative delves into the complex dynamics of political sabotage in South Africa, exploring the motives, evidence, and societal impacts of these actions. It offers a comprehensive perspective on a deeply contentious issue, highlighting the challenges and questions that continue to surround South Africa’s energy crisis and political landscape.