Kenyan farmers find relief from witchweed with new bioherbicide
In western Kenya, small-scale farmers like Catherine Wanjala have long struggled with the devastating effects of witchweed, or striga, which drains essential nutrients from crops like maize, leading to stunted growth and poor yields. This parasitic plant has left families with limited food supplies and disrupted children’s education due to reduced income. Wanjala’s fortunes changed when she began using Kichawi Kill, a bioherbicide that targets only the invasive witchweed without affecting surrounding plants. Developed by the social enterprise Toothpick, Kichawi Kill has helped Wanjala increase her maize harvest by 675%, allowing her to keep her children fed and in school. Launched in Kenya in 2023 with support from the World Food Programme, Kichawi Kill is a groundbreaking solution crafted from a naturally occurring fungus. Unlike chemical pesticides, it does not accumulate in the soil or harm local ecosystems, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional weed control. David Sands, a plant pathologist and Toothpick co-founder, notes, “Using biology to solve biological problems is a far better way than using chemicals.” With nearly 12,000 farmers benefiting and almost a million dollars’ worth of crops saved, Kichawi Kill has shown promise across sub-Saharan Africa, where witchweed infestation affects 1.4 million hectares and causes billions in crop losses each year. Trials are underway for expansion into Uganda, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Cameroon, and Ghana, with hopes that this eco-friendly approach can transform farming for countless others.
Zambia good partner in many areas, says Turkey
Turkey’s Ambassador to Zambia said Tuesday that the southern African nation was a good partner in many areas. “We are working together in every field, from trade to business, from Turkey scholarships to other exchanges, as we strive to build a better future together,” Istem Circiroglu told guests during an event marking the 101st anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Turkey in the capital, Lusaka. Circiroglu said she was pleased to note that Turkish development assistance in Zambia had exceeded $2 million, with the figure surpassing $5 million with the addition of scholarships so far provided to Zambian students. “The Turkish Cooperation and Development Agency (TIKA), Diyanet Foundation and others are also engaged in Zambia. This year is also my farewell to beautiful Zambia and my friends here. I promise I will always remember and keep a place for all of you in my heart,” she added. Lusaka Province Minister Sheal Mulyata was elated that the occasion was held only days after the commemoration of Zambia’s 60th independence anniversary, adding the country would continue consolidating bilateral ties with Türkiye. A Zambian independence celebration was also held in the Turkish capital Ankara, punctuated with a performance by Zambian and Turkish musicians.
Botswana votes to decide fate of ruling party’s 58-year reign
Botswana heads to the polls on Wednesday, facing a pivotal election that will decide whether the ruling Botswana Democratic Party (BDP) can maintain its 58-year grip on power. Analysts suggest this election is particularly unpredictable, as the country grapples with an economic downturn due to declining demand for diamonds, a crucial resource. The opposition criticizes the BDP for its lengthy tenure, accusing it of economic mismanagement and corruption—claims the party denies. Many young voters in the capital, Gaborone, hope for change that will bring employment opportunities. While Botswana is generally regarded as having low corruption and good governance, public confidence in the government is waning. “I’m a graduate but still unemployed. I hope this election will lead to a brighter future,” said resident Maitshwarelo Ditsebe. With unemployment exceeding 27% and youth unemployment over 45%, there is a strong desire for change. “I hope the party I vote for will create jobs for young women,” added Gaborone resident Boago Sentsho. President Mokgweetsi Masisi of the BDP is seeking a second and final term, competing against three challengers, including Duma Boko from the opposition coalition Umbrella for Democratic Change, who has promised to significantly raise the minimum wage and enhance social grants. The election will determine the composition of parliament, with voters casting ballots for 61 National Assembly seats and 609 local council seats. Polling stations open at 6 AM on Wednesday.
South Africa hosts Russian Air Force for goodwill visit
The visit includes the landing of Russian military aircraft, including strategic bombers, at Air Force Base Waterkloof.
Italy and Libya sign deals to boost cooperation
Italy’s Mattei Plan, aimed at fostering cooperation with African countries, has led to several agreements with Libya, including those related to energy, infrastructure, and migration.
Tanzania hosts summit on healthcare access and gender equality
The 11th Merck Foundation Africa-Asia Luminary Summit in Tanzania has gathered First Ladies to address pressing healthcare issues.
ICC charges fugitive Ugandan warlord Kony in absentia
Joseph Kony, the notorious warlord, will face justice, as the ICC confirms charges against him in absentia.
Nigerian lawmaker filmed assaulting delivery driver, triggers outrage
In the footage, a visibly agitated Ikwechegh chastised the driver, deeming it disrespectful to be asked to come out in person
Tragic building collapse claims seven lives in Abuja, Nigeria
The incident occurred in the Sabon-Lugbe neighborhood, where the structure had already been partially demolished
Nigeria vows all measures to curb inflation, says Central Bank chief
Inflation in Nigeria rose in September for the first time in three months, reaching an annual rate of 32.70%
Cholera outbreak declared in South Sudan
Health minister assures public that government is committed to stopping spread of the bacterial disease
Chad declares 3-day mourning for fallen soldiers
President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno vows to hunt down assailants
Air pollution threatens public health in urban centers Like Lagos and Cairo
Urban centers across Africa, notably Lagos and Cairo, are witnessing rising levels of air pollution
Turkey condemns terror attack in Chad, offers condolences
Türkiye on Monday expressed condolences with the people of Chad over a terrorist attack in the Central African country. A statement by the Turkish Foreign Ministry expressed sadness over the killing of nearly 40 Chadian soldiers and many others injured by a “terrorist attack on a military base in the Lake Chad province” on Sunday. The ministry statement also wished a swift recovery to the wounded and wished Allah’s mercy on those who lost their lives.
Macron in Morocco to boost trade and immigration ties
French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Morocco on Monday for a three-day visit focused on enhancing trade, climate change, and immigration partnerships. In Rabat, he will meet with King Mohammed VI and Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, and address the Moroccan parliament. The visit aims to repair relations between the two countries, strained in recent years, particularly over France’s position on Western Sahara. In July, Macron shifted France’s long-standing stance, supporting Morocco’s autonomy plan for the region, which has been welcomed by Rabat, especially after it gained U.S. recognition for its claim in exchange for normalizing ties with Israel in 2020. Morocco is the largest destination for French investment in Africa, hosting over 900 French subsidiaries, and is also France’s top trading partner in the region. Macron’s visit may pave the way for future economic agreements and address ongoing immigration and visa policy issues.
U.S. to restrict visas in Ghana ahead of elections
The U.S. State Department announced on Monday that it will restrict visas for individuals deemed responsible for undermining democracy in Ghana. This decision comes ahead of the presidential and parliamentary elections scheduled for December 7. Ghana has enjoyed nearly two decades of peaceful, free, and fair elections. However, recent allegations of voter roll irregularities have raised concerns about a potential democratic decline. This upcoming election will mark the ninth consecutive general election since Ghana returned to multi-party democracy in 1992. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized that the visa restrictions will target those “who undermine democracy,” not the Ghanaian government or its citizens. Last month, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Ghana’s largest opposition party, staged nationwide protests demanding an audit of the voter roll, claiming to have uncovered thousands of unauthorized transfers and removals of voter names. Incumbent President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is stepping down after his second and final term. Thirteen candidates have been approved for the presidential race, but analysts predict a two-man competition between former President John Dramani Mahama and Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia.
UN chief warns of increasing suffering in conflict-torn Sudan
UN Secretary-General emphasizes urgent need for humanitarian access and intervention amid escalating violence and suffering in Sudan.
South Africa files new evidence against Israeli genocide at UN
South Africa has submitted new evidence to the UN’s top court, alleging that Israel is committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.
Rumble in the Jungle legacy lives on: 50 years later in DRC
Kinshasa, the host city of the iconic “Rumble in the Jungle” fight, is gearing up to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the historic event that captivated the world.
Climate change intensifies flooding in Africa
Climate change has intensified flooding across Africa, displacing millions and causing widespread destruction.
Botswana’s election pits Masisi against divided opposition
Botswana’s upcoming general election will see President Mokgweetsi Masisi contesting against three challengers amid economic challenges and a divided opposition.
Zambia mourns seven footballers tragically killed in bus accident
In addition to the fatalities, twelve other individuals sustained injuries, with five of them being transferred to the capital, Lusaka, for medical treatment
About 40 soldiers killed in attack on Chad military base
In response to the incident, President Mahamat Idriss Deby initiated an operation to locate those responsible for the attack
UN food agency warns of mass starvation risk in Sudan without aid
1 in 2 people ‘struggle to eat every day;’ famine has been confirmed in North Darfur, says World Food Program
Africa’s warm embrace: Hospitality as a cornerstone of culture
Across the vast and diverse continent of Africa, hospitality isn’t just a practice
Uganda fuel tanker explosion toll up to 24
The death toll following a fuel tanker explosion near the Ugandan capital Kampala last week has risen to 24, the government said Sunday. The impoverished East African country has witnessed several similar disasters in recent years, with people rushing to steal fuel from tankers involved in road accidents. The “devastating accident” on Tuesday in the town of Kigogwa, about 25 kilometres (15 miles) north of Kampala, resulted in “11 reported dead at the scene”, said Communications Minister Godfrey Kabbyanga in a statement He added that “13 more have since died in Kiruddu hospital and Bombo military hospital bringing the number to 24”. “Since some of the dead were burnt beyond recognition, the police have been working tirelessly hard to identify the deceased through DNA testing,” he said. The tanker had left the capital for Gulu in northern Uganda, a journey of some 650 kilometres (403 miles), but it overturned and burst into flames en route. The driver is still at large, according to the government.
Mali military eliminates dozens of terrorists in two ops
In a significant development in Mali’s fight against terrorism, the military has successfully neutralized over 40 jihadists and destroyed a base in central Mali.