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The U.S. Steps Up in Africa: Investment in the Lobito Corridor Project The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) is on the brink of finalizing a remarkable financing agreement exceeding $500 million for the Lobito Corridor. This ambitious railway initiative aims to facilitate the transportation of vital minerals from Central Africa's renowned copper belt to Angola's bustling Atlantic coast. It’s not just another infrastructure project; it represents a strategic avenue for growth, development, and…

Recent reports have surfaced suggesting that the Zimbabwean government is allegedly backing the controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo in his ambitious bid to supply over $400 million worth of medical drugs and equipment through his South African company, TTM Global Medical Exports (Pvt). This proposition, while highly lucrative, raises significant ethical and legal questions. Wicknell Chivayo, a name synonymous with both ambition and controversy, is officially listed as a director on the company’s website. TTM Global…

The Dawn of a New Era in Egyptian Renewable Energy In a significant move towards sustainable energy, the African Development Bank Group's Board of Directors has approved financing of up to $184.1 million for the Obelisk solar project in Egypt. Set against the picturesque landscape of southern Egypt, this venture is on track to become Africa’s largest solar power plant, a testament to the continent's commitment to harnessing renewable resources. Imagine a sprawling solar photovoltaic (PV) facility paired with a…

A U.S. judge has dismissed actor Justin Baldoni's substantial $400 million defamation lawsuit against actress Blake Lively. The suit arose from Lively's allegations of sexual harassment against Baldoni during the filming of the 2024 film It Ends With Us. In a ruling delivered by U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman in Manhattan, it was determined that Lively's statements made to a California state agency regarding Baldoni’s alleged misconduct were protected by privilege, which means they cannot serve as the basis for a…

Contraceptive Supplies Stagnate: A Cautionary Tale for Global Health In a troubling turn of events, a former U.S. official and dedicated aid worker has disclosed that a significant stock of contraceptives, valued at an impressive $11 million, is in limbo. This cache includes crucial items like condoms, birth control pills, implants, and intrauterine devices (IUDs), originally earmarked to empower women in low-income nations, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. These supplies were intended to help women avoid unplanned…

From Failure to Opportunity For Tonye Irims, the founder of WiSolar, the journey into entrepreneurship has been anything but smooth. His path is littered with setbacks, but those experiences shaped his resilience. Before launching WiSolar in 2016, Irims explored the startup world with two earlier ventures: WiMobile in 2006 and FriendsChip, a Texas-based social payments platform in 2011. While both were not successful, they became pivotal learning experiences. Failure, he discovered, can be the greatest teacher.…

Mogadishu (AX) - Each year, as a myriad of souls unite in devotion, a profound spectacle unfolds. Nearly two million Muslim pilgrims converged on the sacred slopes of Mount Arafat in western Saudi Arabia this past Thursday, marking the spiritual zenith of the annual Hajj pilgrimage. This moment isn’t just a ritual; it embodies centuries of faith, hope, and the collective ache for divine connection. Clad in simple white garments, symbolizing purity and equality, these pilgrims began to arrive at Arafat under the quiet…

Pilgrimage Under the Sun: The 2023 Hajj Begins Over a million pilgrims have gathered for one of Islam's most significant rites as the hajj officially commences amidst soaring temperatures. As Saudi Arabia takes steps to prevent a repeat of last year's tragic loss of over 1,000 lives due to heat-related issues, the focus remains on ensuring safety and well-being for every participant. With temperatures expected to exceed 40°C (104°F), devotees clad in traditional robes are seen gracefully circling the Kaaba—the revered…

In a significant gesture marking a new chapter in Africa's economic strategy, a remarkable commitment of $16 million was announced during a high-profile meeting at the 2025 African Development Bank (AfDB) Annual Meetings, held in the vibrant city of Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. This pledge signifies not merely a financial boost but a powerful statement about the continent's aspirations and collective capability. This substantial increase, more than tripling the previous pledge of $5 million, represents a watershed…

A recent truck crash in Washington state has led to an unexpected frenzy as 250 million bees were set free. Authorities are issuing cautionary advice for residents to steer clear of any swarming insects in the area. The incident occurred in the far northwest of the United States when a semi-trailer hauling bee hives overturned. In a statement on social media, the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office broke the news: "250 million bees are now loose." They further advised the public: "AVOID THE AREA due to the potential of bees…