current events

Leaders from the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) are being called upon to engage in crucial conversations aimed at halting the violence in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo, while also exploring strategies to safeguard civilians caught in the turmoil in Sudan. These discussions are set to unfold at the forthcoming summit in Burundi. "This summit presents a vital platform for African leaders to confront the ongoing crises in Congo and Sudan, among others. They must create tangible,…

A multitude of lawmakers aiming to unseat House Speaker Fonatii Koffa remain resolute in their intentions, disregarding a directive from the Supreme Court that called for a suspension of their activities. This order springs from a formal appeal made by Speaker Koffa himself, intended to halt any proceedings concerning his potential ousting until a scheduled meeting between both factions on November 4. The faction opposing the Speaker, which boasts more than 40 representatives from the House, identifies itself as the…

Election day in Mozambique commenced on a tranquil note. Yet, when poll results surfaced, a remarkable shift occurred. Reports from Mozambique News Reports and Clippings indicate that thousands of citizens, predominantly the youth, took to the streets, vehemently contesting the declaration that Frelimo had secured a staggering 70% of the vote. This outpouring of discontent has stirred the fabric of Mozambican society. Many critics, fueled by the perception of electoral manipulation, expressed their frustration. As one young…

In a recent announcement, Sabin Nsanzimana, the Minister of Health, disclosed that the current Marburg virus outbreak originated with a 27-year-old individual who had come into contact with fruit bats while working in a cave linked to mining activities. This patient sought care at King Faisal Hospital in Kigali. Initially misdiagnosed with malaria, further testing eventually confirmed he was infected with the Marburg virus, leading to a rapid spread of the disease among close contacts and several healthcare workers.…

Chad has launched a comprehensive vaccination initiative that includes the R21 malaria vaccine, representing a significant advancement in safeguarding the health of its younger population. This ambitious campaign is set to provide the PCV13, rotavirus, and malaria vaccines to an impressive total of 19.7 million children aged between six months and five years. Notably, the malaria vaccine will specifically benefit 168,522 children across 28 targeted districts. By incorporating the malaria vaccine into its national…

The African School of Governance (ASG), a visionary initiative spearheaded by H.E. Paul Kagame, the President of Rwanda, alongside H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn, the former Prime Minister of Ethiopia, has officially opened its doors in the vibrant city of Kigali. This remarkable undertaking is bolstered by a partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, which aligns with its Young Africa Works Strategy. At the helm of ASG is Professor Kingsley Moghalu, who serves as its inaugural president. He is supported by a diverse and…

This week, leaders from the Commonwealth, a global organization primarily comprised of former British colonies, have convened in the picturesque Pacific island nation of Samoa. After two decades of waiting, it’s Africa’s turn to fill the Secretary-General role. However, the agenda is igniting debate, particularly regarding the contentious topic of reparations. In the spotlight are three contenders fiercely competing for the esteemed position: Ghana's Foreign Minister, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey; the erstwhile trade and…

The government of Liberia has unveiled plans to revoke multiple diplomatic appointments at its overseas missions. Minister of Information Jerolinmek Piah revealed that President Joseph Boakai made this decision to "synchronize the roles with the governance demands and diplomatic strategy of the nation." This move is seen as a strategic alignment with the prevailing needs of the country, steering clear of prior engagements that no longer resonate with Liberia's evolving foreign policy. Piah emphasized that the process of…

As the countdown to the election day in Botswana approaches its final stretch, political parties are intensifying their efforts to captivate voters with their manifestos. According to political commentator Kitso Morekisi, the presidential race is wide open. This sentiment resonates as international observers have landed to oversee the electoral proceedings leading up to the general election scheduled for October 30. Recently, VOA highlighted an issue that arose during the early voting process—ballot papers ran out due to…

In a significant political twist, President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo has revealed intentions to create a commission tasked with reviewing the existing Constitution. This endeavor might lead to the scrapping of term limits, ultimately opening the door for a potential third presidential term. Tshisekedi, who assumed the presidency in January 2024 following a highly contentious re-election battle in December, is now advocating for alterations to a Constitution that first received the nod from voters…