China urges African countries to unite ‘Global South’
Chinese President Xi Jinping has called on African leaders to unite the “Global South” in advocating for international equity and justice amid major global changes. In meetings with African leaders attending the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing, Xi stressed the importance of solidarity among developing nations. Xi highlighted new partnerships, including a “Comprehensive Strategic Cooperation Partnership” with South Africa and proposed three types of collaboration with Kenya: mutual trust, win-win cooperation, and strategic alignment on international and regional issues. With Comoros, Xi emphasized cooperation as a model of equality and solidarity, offering support to combat poverty and utilize the country’s geographical advantages. He also invited Seychelles to join the China-Indian Ocean Development Cooperation Forum and urged faster sustainable use of marine resources. Regarding Eritrea, Xi proposed enhanced cooperation in energy, infrastructure, and agriculture, noting shared views on international matters. In discussions with Guinea, Xi highlighted FOCAC’s role in boosting practical cooperation and supporting Guinea’s development. With Chad, Xi supported the country’s sovereignty and security, while Chad reaffirmed its adherence to the “One China” policy. In his meeting with Malawi, Xi discussed leveraging opportunities from China’s modernization and increasing cooperation in various fields. Xi reiterated Africa’s crucial role as a global power and China’s diplomatic focus, advocating for a multipolar world and inclusive economic globalization. The FOCAC’s ninth summit will take place in Beijing from September 4-6, with leaders from over 50 countries attending. Eswatini will not participate due to its diplomatic ties with Taiwan.
161 Nigerian students denied entry at UK border
Between 2021 and 2023, 1,425 international students were denied entry to the UK at airports. Among them were 161 Nigerians, as revealed by UK Home Office data obtained via the Freedom of Information Act. Indian students were the most affected, representing 45% of those turned away, with 644 removals. Nigerians made up 11.3%, while students from Ghana and Bangladesh accounted for 6.46% and 6.32%, respectively. The data, covering October 2021 to October 2023, only reflects students refused entry at the border and does not include those deported for visa violations. The Home Office did not provide specific reasons for these removals, but sources indicate issues such as failing to convince Border Force officers, presenting forged documents, or language barriers. Immigration lawyer Dele Olawanle criticized the practice, arguing that Border Force officers have overstepped by questioning students about their academic courses, which sometimes leads to visa cancellations. Data analyst Nelly Okechukwu recounted a similar experience, where he was questioned about his studies despite having graduated years earlier.
Algeria’s presidential election faces voter disinterest
Voter apathy and economic concerns overshadow Algeria’s presidential election, with incumbent President Tebboune set to win a second term amid widespread disinterest.
African drugmaker in talks for mpox vaccine production
Aspen Pharmacare is exploring the production of mpox vaccines to address the ongoing outbreak in Africa.
Botswana to hold general elections on October 30
President Mokgweetsi Masisi has confirmed that Botswana’s general elections will be held on October 30.
Ugandan opposition leader Bobi Wine injured in Kampala incident
Bobi Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi, rose to prominence as a pop star before entering politics
Namibia initiates controversial wildlife cull amid drought
Amidst a severe drought, Namibia has embarked on a mass wildlife culling program to alleviate pressure on resources and provide food for its population.
DR Congo prison break leaves 129 dead, reports of rapes
A chaotic prison break at Makala in DR Congo left 129 dead and several women raped, with the authorities working to control the situation and assess the damage.
Boko Haram kills 127 in Nigeria, Amnesty International reports
Boko Haram terror organization carried out attack on Mafa village in northeastern Yobe state on Sunday and victims were buried on Tuesday, says rights group
Mali junta signs military deal with Chinese defense firm
Deal inked between defense minister and head of Norinco
Burkina Faso massacre sparks outrage against junta
The attack has sparked public outcry against the ruling junta, which has been accused of failing to protect civilians.
One year after quake, thousands in Morocco still wait for rebuilt homes
The 6.8 magnitude earthquake, which struck on Sept. 8, 2023, was Morocco’s deadliest since 1960
Africa: The continent of rapid economic growth
Africa is home to some of the world’s fastest-growing economies, with nations like Rwanda, Ethiopia, and Côte d’Ivoire
Ethiopian airlines halts flights to Eritrea citing operational challenges
This move follows an earlier statement from Eritrea indicating that it would suspend all Ethiopian Airlines flights by the end of this month
A UN-sanctioned Libyan human trafficker has been killed in Tripoli
One of Libya’s most wanted human traffickers, Abdel-Rahman Milad, was killed on Sunday in Tripoli, according to Libyan officials. Milad, a former coast guard commander in Zawiya and a UN-sanctioned individual, was shot by unknown assailants while in his vehicle in the Sayyad area. The details surrounding his death remain unclear, and no group has claimed responsibility. Libyan media reported bullet marks on Milad’s white Toyota Land Cruiser. Libyan officials, speaking anonymously for safety reasons, have not commented on the incident, and the Tripoli-based government has yet to issue a statement. Milad’s death has sparked calls for an investigation, including from militia leader Moammar Dhawi, who expressed condolences and urged authorities to hold those responsible accountable. Libya has faced instability and division since the 2011 uprising that toppled Muammar Gaddafi, becoming a major route for migrants from Africa and the Middle East attempting to reach Europe. In June 2018, the UN Security Council imposed sanctions on Milad and other leaders linked to migrant trafficking. Despite his denial of involvement in human smuggling, Milad had previously been jailed on related charges.
Ghana to raise cocoa farmgate price
Ghana’s cocoa regulator is considering a nearly 45% increase in the state-guaranteed price for cocoa farmers for the 2024/25 crop season, according to Reuters on September 2. If implemented, this would mark the second consecutive price hike. Earlier this year, Ghana raised the farmgate price by 58% to 33,120 Ghana cedis (approximately 2,499 U.S. dollars) per ton, following Côte d’Ivoire’s lead. This adjustment aims to improve farmers’ incomes and curb cocoa bean smuggling. The Ghana Civil Society platform has urged the regulator to set the minimum farmgate price for the 2024/25 season at 3,662 U.S. dollars per ton. The government announces new cocoa prices each September, which apply from the start of the cocoa season in September until August of the following year. This year’s price surge is attributed to increased demand and challenges with cocoa crops in West Africa, including plant diseases and weather-related issues.
Nomceba Zuma engaged to Eswatini king during traditional dance
Nomceba Zuma, daughter of South Africa’s former president Jacob Zuma, confirmed her engagement to the king of Eswatini during the annual Reed Dance ceremony.
Nigeria accuses protesters of treason, threatens death penalty
A crackdown on protests in Nigeria has led to the arrest of hundreds of protesters, including a British citizen accused of working as a foreign mercenary.
Libyans deported from South Africa for secret military training
South African authorities uncovered a secret military training camp where 95 Libyans were being prepared to fight for a Libyan faction.
DR Congo jailbreak attempt foiled amidst chaos
Gunshots rang out as prisoners attempted a mass escape from Makala prison in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
WMO warns Africa’s rapid warming and extreme weather
Climate change is disproportionately affecting Africa, leading to massive humanitarian crises and hindering socio-economic development.
Tanzania’s VP opens UN forum to boost climate action efforts
In a landmark event, Tanzania hosted the 24th Forum and the 35th Meeting of the UNFCCC’s Permanent Financial Committee, focused on enhancing climate financing and strategies for climate change action.
Africa’s rapid digital growth: Mobile money and e-commerce surge
The ongoing expansion of mobile money and e-commerce signals a new era of economic growth
Zimbabwean bus overturns in South Africa, killing five
A bus crash in Limpopo province has claimed the lives of five people, just days after another fatal accident.
Egypt detains two Israelis for assaulting hotel workers
The incident followed a physical altercation that erupted at a hotel in the Red Sea town.
China aims increased Africa trade before Western sanctions hit
African leaders meet in Beijing as China seeks to boost exports of electric vehicles and solar panels.
Africa accelerates urbanization with sustainable cities initiative
Africa is taking steps toward developing sustainable cities that can meet the needs of its growing population
