Their report concludes that Barbados’s population of African descent have suffered damages estimated at up to $2tn (£1.5tn) from 200 years of chattel slavery.The head of the research team, Coleman Bazelon, said the total reflected the magnitude of the damage done, but he emphasised that the figure was not a bill for damages but the factual foundation for dialogue.“This research is not creating an invoice for anybody to pay,” said Bazelon. “It is an accounting of the harm that was done … a recognition of the harm that was done that is the starting point for reconciliation.”Barbados was the first major British colony to force enslaved people to work on its plantations from the early 1600s. It is also a founding nation of the Caribbean Community (Caricom) which advocates for reparations.Bazelon was the lead co-author of the 2023 Brattle analysis, which was included in the report on reparations for transatlantic chattel slavery in the Americas and the Caribbean. The analysis estimated that chattel slavery affected 19.9 million people, including those who were captured, those who lost their lives while being transported from Africa, and those who worked on plantations and their descendants.After Britain abolished slavery on 1 August 1834, £20m was paid in compensation to enslavers for loss of their “property”. The enslaved people themselves received nothing.Bazelon conducted this new research through the non-profit organisation Public Interest Experts. “What they asked me to focus on was: what was the value of the labour stolen through slavery in Barbados,” Bazelon said.Speaking at an event in Barbados to preview the research earlier this month, Barbados’s minister for pan-African affairs and heritage, Trevor Prescod, said: “You can’t erase history … My job is to give an Afrocentric redress to the imbalances that occurred during the period of slavery.”The minister said that the report will eventually go to the cabinet for ratification. “I feel the public must walk with us to our destination … Many areas of progress that we were denied will be at the heart of our call and claims for reparations and reparatory justice,” he said.<img src="https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/03d1a4d93825a6fa88e80b5b6fa188ac29ea0c17/0_0_3000_2492/master/3000.jpg?width=445&amp;dpr=1&amp;s=none&amp;crop=none">Workers on a sugar plantation in Barbados in the 19th century. Photograph: Chronicle/AlamyBazelon has given a detailed breakdown of the methodology and figures: “The value of the labour that was provided but not compensated, it’s somewhere between$500bn and $700bn. But of course, an enslaved person working in Barbados had much of their life stolen from them as well. So, I think it’s very proper to include the short lifespan of people who were enslaved in Barbados. And the short lifespan estimate is anywhere from about $1.1tn to $1.3tn. So if you add them together you end up with a range of about $1.6tn to $2tn as the value of the labour and life directly stolen from people in enslaved Barbados.”He added: “The important contextual point is that there were [about] 379,000 people who got off the boat from Africa in Barbados … There were another 78,000 people who got on the boats but didn’t get off, who died during the middle passage. And then we estimate another 335,000 people who were born into slavery in Barbados.”The findings provide an understanding of the significant size of the harm done.Prof Alan Lester, from the University of Sussex, a leading expert on the British empire, said: “It’s not surprising that – when you add up the value of lives appropriated to make money in Barbados, Britain’s oldest slave plantation colony – you get such an enormous figure.“The inequalities entrenched by slavery have only been exacerbated since, as compensation was paid to slave owners rather than the enslaved and independence left Caribbean islands drained of capital and indebted to western institutions.”The 2023 Brattle analysis estimated that the value of harms from transatlantic chattel slavery in 31 territories in the Americas and the Caribbean amounted to $100–131tn in total, of which $77-108tn represented harms during the period of enslavement, and $23tn the continuing harms since.The analysis was commissioned after an international symposium on reparations and international law concluded that transatlantic slavery was unlawful.Last month 123 nations at the UN general assembly voted that chattel slavery was the gravest crime against humanity. The US, Israel and Argentina voted against the resolution, while 52 countries, including the UK and other many European countries abstained. Previously, the UK prime minister, Keir Starmer, ruled out direct monetary payments for reparations.David Lascelles, the co-founder of Heirs of Slavery, a group of descendants of British enslavers who encourage others to acknowledge and discuss reparative justice, said: “My distant ancestor Henry Lascelles made his fortune in Barbados in the 18th century. Now, 300 years later, it’s high time we all recognise there is a debt to pay, a debt that is of course about money, but not just about money.”Alex Renton, another co-founder of the group, added that “addressing the legacies of this most terrible event in Britain’s modern history is the right thing for the nation to do, morally and practically”.

UK stole 25m years of life and labour through slavery in Barbados, says report

RICHARD AKOTO WALLS

In late August, the term of the current secretary general of the 15-nation Caribbean Community, Dr. Carla Natalie Barnett, 68, would have come to an end and although leaders recently reappointed her to a second and final five-year term, it does not appear that she will survive a full second employment period.Speculation about whether she might even work a day after August 26 is rife and growing because of a relentless campaign by Trinidad’s government to see the back of her due to a row, dating back nearly four years, between Barnett and Kamla Persad-Bissessar, prime minister of the Trinidad and Tobago (T&amp;T) federation.The escalating public row about her tenure and the process used to reappoint has become so divisive that at the weekend, Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness called for an emergency meeting of leaders to look at the issue all over again.The T&amp;T PM is gunning for the Belizean economist turned regional chief executive largely because of what she has basically said was a hurtful diplomatic snub that Barnett had allegedly inflicted on her while she was the country’s opposition leader back in 2022.The PM complained that she had written to Barnett because a Trinidadian national had allegedly been abducted from his hotel by local police while he was in neighboring Barbados during a joint operation with Barbadian officers. She said Barnett never had the decency to reply, but now that she is PM after winning general elections a year ago this month, the time to get rid of Barnett is now.The vitriol emanating from Port of Spain against Barnett has been so loud and has become so embarrassing that it appears that the issue of her reappointment might well trigger a second emergency meeting of heads of governments as early as this week, after one held earlier in April.“I think the solution really lies in assembling another heads meeting to have the matter addressed,” Holness told the local Guardian Media during a visit to New York over the weekend. “That’s something that I have been pushing for quietly behind the scenes. I think it is distressing for a lot of people within the region regarding what is being said in the public domain, but I know that all the heads are working behind the scenes to have this matter resolved.”Trinidad is contending that the process to reappoint Barnett at the late February meeting of leaders was highly flawed and suspicious because the local delegation and at least two countries were excluded from attending a closed-door caucus in sister isle Nevis.Leaders including Terrance Drew, prime minister of St. Kitts and the current regional chair have accused Foreign Minister Sean Sobers of not attending the session because of his fear of seasickness on the short boat ride to Nevis. Sobers had been the acting Trinidad delegation head to the meeting and would have been the one to attend after his PM had left the summit. He denies ever suggesting his fear of the sea but later admitted that he was simply joking.As preparations proceed for the second emergency meeting in weeks, a leading regional diplomat is suggesting that it is better for Barnett to walk away rather than stick around and stoke division in the bloc. Sir Ronald Sanders, Antigua’s ambassador to the U.S., has argued that this will be the best solution to a contentious and divisive issue.“If I were the secretary general of CARICOM, and I’m being quite serious here, and this had occurred, I would have resigned, and I would have resigned because I would have said I must not stand in the way of Caribbean integration and the movement forward,” he said on the state-owned ABS Television, apparently signaling the position of the government. “Why am I still there? Because it is clear that I will never enjoy her support and why, therefore, would I put myself in a situation in which I am now the cause of the rift? If I were Carla Barnett, I would resign now on principle because … Kamla Persad will not attend the meeting if Carla Barnett is at that meeting; neither will her foreign minister,” he noted._Source: Amsterdam News

CARICOM to meet again as row over incumbent escalates

Nathan

Guyana's oil exports are experiencing an historic boom, with&nbsp;production surpassing 900,000 barrels per day by late 2025, transforming it into one of the world's fastest-growing economies. Major export destinations include the Netherlands, Panama, and the United Kingdom, with a significant portion (roughly half) going to just two nations. The crude, largely from the Stabroek Block, generated over US$17 billion in 2025.<img src="https://aukisscontent.s3.amazonaws.com/08449990cIMG_3642.png">Key Aspects of Guyana's Oil Export Industry<ul><li>Production &amp; Growth:&nbsp;Production has surged from zero in 2019 to over 900,000 barrels per day by late 2025, with plans to exceed 1.2 million barrels per day.</li><li>Major Export Destinations:&nbsp;Over 60% of shipments are headed to Europe, with the Netherlands (often via Rotterdam) being a primary hub, while Panama serves as a key transit point. Other significant recipients include the United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, and the United States.</li><li>Revenue &amp; Economic Impact:&nbsp;Export earnings are massive, reaching over US$17 billion in 2025. Guyana's GDP saw record growth, expanding by 62% in 2022 and over 30% in 2023.</li><li>Key Operations:&nbsp;All oil production is managed by a consortium led by ExxonMobil, along with Hess and CNOOC.</li><li>Export Composition:&nbsp;The oil produced is primarily "light and sweet" crude, which is in high demand.</li><li>Export Trends:&nbsp;In 2024, Guyana ranked as the 8th largest crude oil supplier to the United States.</li></ul>Key Export Data<ul><li>2024 Earnings:&nbsp;~US$17.99 billion</li><li>2025 Earnings:&nbsp;~US$17.8 billion</li><li>Primary Destination Region:&nbsp;Europe (&gt;60% of shipments)</li><li>Top Hubs:&nbsp;Netherlands (Rotterdam), Panama&nbsp;</li></ul>The rapid increase in oil exports has driven significant infrastructural development and economic expansion, but it has also brought challenges, including inflationary pressures on housing and food.

Guyana is quietly getting rich from the oil blockade cause by the US Israeli war in Iran

The color shows up in the sand before anything else. Along certain stretches of The Bahamas and the broad reaches of the Caribbean, crushed coral mixes with white grains to create a soft pink tone that runs for miles along the shoreline. It’s most visible along the edges of Bermuda, The Bahamas and Barbuda, with smaller pockets in Barbados and Grenada. The hotels along these beaches keep a close relationship with the shoreline — low-rise footprints, short paths to the water, and rooms positioned so you see the ocean the moment you open the door.Here’s where you can check in and walk straight onto pink sand.<img src="https://aukisscontent.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/a084a5a32IMG_3375.webp"><a href="https://www.thecrane.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Crane, Barbados</a>Set above Crane Beach on Barbados’ southeastern coast, this resort gives you a clear vantage point over one of the island’s most distinctive shorelines, where the sand carries a noticeable blush tone in certain light. You reach the beach by elevator or staircase carved into the cliff, stepping onto a wide, open stretch framed by rock formations and steady Atlantic surf. Rooms range from suites to multi-bedroom residences, many with private plunge pools and full kitchens. Dining includes Zen for sushi and Asian dishes and L’Azure for Caribbean-focused plates, both set within restored historic structures. You’re here for elevated views, direct beach access, and one of the island’s most visually distinct coastlines. It’s one of the most iconic places to stay in the region.<img src="https://aukisscontent.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/6c849b857IMG_3376.jpeg">Sandals Grenada.<a href="https://www.sandals.com/sandals-grenada/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sandals Grenada, Grenada</a>Set on&nbsp;Pink Gin Beach&nbsp;on the southwestern coast of Grenada, this resort takes you to a quiet, curved stretch of shoreline. In certain light, especially near the waterline, the sand carries a faint pink tint from crushed coral mixed into the shoreline. The resort runs along the beach with multiple zones, the spectacualr SkyPool suites. Dining spans more than 10 restaurants, from Caribbean to Italian to sushi, all included, along with bars positioned close to the sand. You stay here for Sandals’ unique brand of all-inclusive luxury.<img src="https://aukisscontent.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/6b5435a7aIMG_3377.jpeg">The iconic Blue Bar at Pink Sands.<a href="https://pinksandsresort.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pink Sands Resort, Harbour Island</a>Cottage-style rooms are scattered across landscaped gardens just above Harbour Island’s signature pink sand beach, with sandy paths leading directly to the shoreline. Interiors use white walls, light woods, and soft fabrics, keeping the focus on the setting outside. You can walk from your room to the water in under a minute, with miles of uninterrupted beach in both directions.&nbsp;Blue Baranchors the beachfront with grilled fish, conch, and cocktails served steps from the sand. The layout keeps things quiet and spaced out, even when the hotel is full.<img src="https://aukisscontent.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/86e49693cIMG_3378.webp">It’s the gateway to Barbuda.<a href="https://www.barbudabelle.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Barbuda Belle, Barbuda</a>A small collection of beachfront villas lines one of the longest uninterrupted pink sand beaches in the Caribbean. There’s no nearby town and very little surrounding development, so the experience stays focused on the shoreline and the water. Each villa opens directly onto the sand, with shaded terraces and outdoor seating facing the ocean. The on-site restaurant serves fresh seafood and simple Caribbean dishes, often sourced locally. You stay here for isolation, open coastline, and a setting where the beach stretches out with almost no interruption.<img src="https://aukisscontent.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/cd74b3ac3IMG_3379.webp"><a href="https://www.thelorenhotels.com/bermuda" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Loren at Pink Beach, Bermuda</a>Set directly on one of Bermuda’s most consistent pink sand stretches in Tucker’s Town, this hotel puts you steps from the shoreline the moment you leave your room. Every accommodation faces the Atlantic, with private terraces that open to uninterrupted ocean views and a clear line down to the sand. The beach here runs in a gentle curve, with a visible blush tone that shows up strongest along the waterline.Rooms and suites keep a clean, modern look, with floor-to-ceiling glass, light finishes, and layouts that prioritize the view. Villas add private plunge pools and expanded outdoor space, giving you a more residential setup right above the beach. The&nbsp;Pink Beach Club&nbsp;anchors the property, with outdoor tables set close to the sand and a menu focused on local seafood, while the&nbsp;Marée Lounge&nbsp;handles drinks and lighter fare throughout the day.<img src="https://aukisscontent.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/a1240aaa8IMG_3380.jpeg">The Dunmore, perched above the sand.<a href="https://www.dunmorebeach.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Dunmore, Harbour Island</a>I just adore this hotel. A white main house faces the Atlantic from slightly elevated ground, with a long veranda that looks out over the pink sand below. Guest rooms sit in modern bungalows behind it, finished with clean lines, polished concrete, and neutral tones. The restaurant draws both hotel guests and visitors, with a menu that mixes Bahamian seafood and broader coastal dishes, and a bar that fills up as the evening progresses. You’re steps from the beach throughout your stay, with a layout that keeps the ocean in constant view. It’s jet-set, it’s golden age, it’s what we love about travel. It just feels special.<img src="https://aukisscontent.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/22e438bf6IMG_3381.png">It’s set on a seven-mile stretch of pink sand beach.The Potlatch Club, Harbour IslandOne of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caribjournal.com/2024/06/20/bahamas-eleuthera-new-boutique-hotel/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">newest places to stay in The Bahamas</a>&nbsp;is famous for something old: a jet-set pedigree that includes Paul McCartney’s honeymoon. It’s hip and low-key. There’s no central hotel building, and no shared resort structure, just individual homes set along the sand. You walk straight from your villa onto the beach, with outdoor showers and shaded seating areas that keep you outside most of the day. It’s a quieter, more residential approach to Harbour Island, built around privacy and direct access to the shoreline.<img src="https://aukisscontent.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/830480852IMG_3382.webp">La Bougainvillea, a boutique resort in Governor’s Harbour.La Bougainvillea, EleutheraThis small beachfront hotel places you directly on a quieter stretch of Eleuthera’s pink-tinged sand. Rooms and suites include terraces facing the Atlantic, with clear sightlines to the water and steady ocean breeze. The on-site restaurant serves fresh fish, lobster when available, and simple Caribbean dishes, with seating just steps from the sand. The setting stays relaxed and low-density, with long walks available in either direction along the beach.<img src="https://aukisscontent.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/023493baaIMG_3383.jpeg">The hotel just underwent a big makeover.<a href="https://www.coralsands.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Coral Sands, Harbour Island</a>One of the island’s best-known properties, Coral Sands offers a mix of ocean-facing rooms and private cottages set along the Atlantic side. Many units include patios or balconies with direct views of the shoreline. The freshwater pool sits just above the beach, and the Pink Mermaid restaurant anchors the property with all-day dining and a bar that remains active into the evening. You get immediate access to a wide stretch of pink sand, along with a classic, easy-to-navigate setup.<img src="https://aukisscontent.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/1f649ebbaIMG_3384.jpeg">Greenwood Beach on Cat Island in The Bahamas.<a href="https://greenwoodbeachresort.biz/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Greenwood Beach Resort, Cat Island&nbsp;</a>Set on a quiet stretch of Cat Island’s Atlantic coast, this small resort gives you direct access to a long, open beach where the sand carries a soft pink tint in certain light. The shoreline runs wide and largely empty, with steady surf and almost no development in sight. Rooms face the ocean, with simple interiors and short paths leading straight onto the sand. The on-site restaurant serves fresh, straightforward meals, often centered on local seafood, with a bar that stays low-key into the evening. You stay here for seclusion, uninterrupted beachfront, and a part of The Bahamas where the pace stays slow and the beaches feel untouched. It’s a kitesfuring retreat as much as anything.<img src="https://aukisscontent.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/252446ac7IMG_3385.webp"><a href="https://pineapplefields.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pineapple Fields, Eleuthera</a>Near French Leave Beach, these condo-style residences give you larger living spaces with full kitchens, separate bedrooms, and private terraces. The beach itself is one of Eleuthera’s most consistent pink sand stretches, wide and lightly trafficked, with steady surf and long walking distances. You’re a short walk or quick drive from the shoreline, with nearby access to Tippy’s Restaurant for beachfront dining and drinks. The best part is, of course, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.caribjournal.com/2024/01/26/tippys-eleuthera-rum-punch-secret/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">secret rum punch.</a>_Source: Carib Journal

These 11 Beach Resorts From Barbados to The Bahamas Deliver the Ultimate Pink-Sand Vacations

A federal judge has blocked the Trump administration from stripping temporary protected status from up to 350,000 Haitians, a status that allows them to legally live and work in the United States amid the turmoil in their homeland.Judge Ana Reyes issued a temporary stay that prevents Kristi Noem, the US homeland security secretary, from implementing her decision to remove the status known as TPS, which was scheduled to expire on Tuesday.Reyes notes that Noem, in announcing her decision to revoke TPS for Haitians, referred to those seeking refuge in the US as “killers, leeches, or entitlement junkies”.She then notes that the plaintiffs who asked her to block the order, five Haitian TPS holders, “are not, it emerges, ‘killers, leeches, or entitlement junkies’”.“They are instead: Fritz Emmanuel Lesly Miot, a neuroscientist researching Alzheimer’s disease; Rudolph Civil, a software engineer at a national bank; Marlene Gail Noble, a laboratory assistant in a toxicology department; Marica Merline Laguerre, a college economics major; and Vilbrun Dorsainvil, a full-time registered nurse”, the judge added.Reyes said in an accompanying 83-page opinion that plaintiffs were likely to prevail on the merits of the case and that she found it “substantially likely” that Noem preordained her termination decision because of “hostility to nonwhite immigrants”.“During the stay, the Termination shall be null, void, and of no legal effect,” the judge said in her two-page order, adding that for now, the termination has no bearing on their ability to work and to be protected from detention and deportation.Temporary protected status can be granted by the homeland security secretary if conditions in home countries are deemed unsafe for return due to a natural disaster, political instability or other dangers. While it grants TPS holders the right to live and work in the US, it does not provide a legal pathway to citizenship.The Trump administration has aggressively sought to remove the protection, making more people eligible for deportation. The moves are part of the administration’s wider, mass deportation effort.In addition to the migrants from Haiti, Noem has terminated protections for about 600,000 Venezuelans, 60,000 people from Honduras, Nicaragua and Nepal, more than 160,000 Ukrainians and thousands of people from Afghanistan and Cameroon. Some have pending lawsuits in federal courts.Haiti’s TPS status was initially activated in 2010 after a catastrophic earthquake and has been extended multiple times. The country is racked by gang violence that has displaced hundreds of thousands of people.While the Department of Homeland Security said conditions in Haiti had improved, lawyers for the plaintiffs argue the situation remains dire.“If the termination stands, people will almost certainly die,” attorneys for Haitian TPS holders wrote in a court filing in December. “Some will likely be killed, others will likely die from disease, and yet others will likely starve to death.”

Judge blocks Trump administration’s stripping of Haitians’ protected status  Up to 350,000 Haitians legally live and work in the US due to being granted temporary protected status

As Guyana continues to transform, a family is betting on a different side of the country’s future, one centered on lifestyle, community living, and modern waterfront experiences.Monarch Group has officially launched Monarch Bay, a new waterfront community planned for Ogle that will feature Guyana’s first Crystal Lagoon, a massive man-made turquoise lagoon designed to bring a resort-style living experience closer to home.Behind the project are Guyanese entrepreneurs Clairmont and Iman Cummings, who say the development is rooted in a desire to invest back into Guyana and create spaces that reflect the country’s rapid evolution.Spread across 30 acres, Monarch Bay is being designed as more than just another housing development. The vision includes homes, shopping, dining, green spaces, recreational areas, and family-centered amenities all built around a modern waterfront setting.At the heart of the project will be the Crystal Lagoon, powered by internationally used Crystal Lagoons technology, known for creating large scale clear water lagoons in luxury and tourism developments around the world.For many Guyanese, the concept may feel unlike anything currently available locally, blending residential living with the kind of leisure experiences more commonly seen in international resort communities.Founder of Monarch Group, Clairmont Cummings, said the idea was always about creating a destination that matches the energy and optimism now shaping Guyana.He explained that the goal is not simply to build houses, but to create a community where people can live, relax, connect, and enjoy modern amenities within a safe and thoughtfully planned environment.Co Founder Iman Cummings said Guyana is entering a major period of transformation and developments like Monarch Bay are intended to contribute to that growth in a meaningful way.According to the developers, the project is targeting a wide cross section of buyers including young professionals, families, returning Guyanese in the diaspora, and regional investors looking for opportunities in one of the world’s fastest growing economies.The first phase of the project represents an estimated US$20 million investment and is being financed by Citizens Bank Guyana.Construction preparation has already started, with the first phase expected to be completed by 2028.<img src="https://i0.wp.com/newsroom.gy/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/xbxbxbx.jpg?resize=1500%2C999&amp;ssl=1">Monarch Group has also partnered with ARC Consultants, led by Toronto based real estate professional Kimberly Jeffrey D’Angelo, to oversee sales and market positioning.As Guyana’s economic boom continues to reshape skylines, industries, and communities, projects like Monarch Bay signal a growing demand not only for housing, but for a different style of living one that blends comfort, recreation, convenience, and long term investment into a single space.

Guyanese family unveils waterfront community featuring crystal lagoon

The Nigerian-founded classifieds company is expanding beyond Africa after years of regional growth and acquisitions.<ul><li>Nigerian-founded classifieds platform Jiji has acquired Bangladesh’s largest online marketplace, Bikroy.</li><li>The deal marks one of the rare cases of an African tech company buying a major Asian digital platform.</li><li>Jiji is extending a strategy it used across Africa: enter markets, challenge incumbents, then acquire them.</li><li>The acquisition highlights rising competition across emerging markets as African, Chinese and regional tech firms race for online commerce dominance.</li></ul>The acquisition is Jiji’s first outside Africa and comes just over a year after the Nigerian-founded company entered Bangladesh as a direct competitor to Bikroy.Jiji Chief Executive Officer Anton Volianskyi declined to disclose the value of the transaction but told TechCabal it was funded through internal resources and shareholder support.The deal is significant because African startups have historically focused on expanding within the continent rather than acquiring established platforms overseas.Jiji’s move into South Asia shows a transition, reflecting how some African technology firms are now attempting to export operating models developed in fast-growing but difficult markets such as Nigeria and Kenya.Founded in 2014, Jiji has grown into one of Africa’s largest online classifieds platforms, operating across several African countries including Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Ethiopia.The company says it now serves more than 90 million annual users and processes around $70 billion in annual gross merchandise value across its platforms.The Bangladesh acquisition also extends a strategy that has defined Jiji’s growth over the past six years: enter a market, compete aggressively against dominant rivals, then consolidate the market through acquisitions.In 2019, Jiji acquired the African operations of OLX across Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Uganda and Tanzania after years of competition. Bikroy was also owned by Saltside, making it the second Saltside platform Jiji has acquired in four years.“This is a deliberate strategy,” Volianskyi said. “In each case, the sequence is the same: enter organically to validate the opportunity, build a competitive position on the ground, and then evaluate whether organic scaling or consolidation gets us to category leadership faster.”Jiji launched in Bangladesh in March 2025, targeting a market with strong similarities to several African economies where it already operates: a large young population, growing internet penetration, increasing smartphone usage and rising online commerce adoption.Bangladesh has more than 130 million internet users and one of South Asia’s fastest-growing digital commerce sectors. Industry estimates project the country’s e-commerce market could exceed $12 billion within the next few years.The market is also becoming increasingly competitive.Jiji will now compete more directly with Daraz, the Alibaba-backed e-commerce giant operating across South Asia.The company also faces broader pressure from fast-growing Chinese platforms such as Temu, which has expanded aggressively into emerging markets including parts of Africa.For Jiji, Bangladesh offers something increasingly difficult to find within Africa: a large digital marketplace with room for rapid scale and consolidation.The company said Bikroy will continue operating under its existing brand rather than being rebranded as Jiji.“That kind of brand equity and category leadership takes more than a decade to build,” Volianskyi said.Bikroy, founded in 2012, is one of Bangladesh’s best-known online marketplaces, particularly in vehicles, electronics and property listings.According to figures released by Jiji, the platform has recorded more than 10 million app downloads and attracts roughly three million monthly users.Jiji plans to migrate Bikroy onto its own technology infrastructure while introducing advertising systems and seller tools already used across its African operations.The company also plans to increase marketing spending in Bangladesh as it pushes for further growth.The acquisition reflects a broader shift in global technology markets, where companies from emerging economies are no longer only defending their home markets from international rivals but are increasingly expanding abroad themselves.For African startups, the transaction could become an important test case of whether business models refined in some of the world’s toughest operating environments can successfully compete beyond the continent.

Nigerian startup Jiji buys Bangladesh’s biggest classifieds platform in rare African tech expansion into Asia

Damang Gold Mine Limited, owned by Ghanaian businessman Ibrahim Mahama, has sold 100 per cent of its first gold output to the Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod) in what officials have described as a landmark transaction aimed at strengthening the country’s foreign reserves.The consignment, weighing about 110 kilogrammes, was delivered to GoldBod’s assay laboratory in Accra on Thursday, May 30, 2026, where it will undergo valuation and processing before being purchased on behalf of the Bank of Ghana.Gold mine toursOnce completed, the gold will be refined and added to the central bank’s reserves, in line with ongoing efforts to deepen Ghana’s external buffers.The Chief Executive Officer of GoldBod, Sammy Gyamfi, received a delegation from the mining firm led by Mr Mahama and described the transaction as a significant step in enhancing local participation in the minerals sector.He noted that Ghanaian ownership and leadership within the mining industry were essential to ensuring that the country derived maximum value from its natural resources while promoting economic transformation.Mining technology solutionsMr Gyamfi also raised concerns about what he termed the relatively low contribution of large-scale mining companies to the country’s foreign reserve build-up, urging industry players to follow the example set by Damang Gold Mine.According to him, such initiatives are critical to the success of the Ghana Accelerated National Reserve Accumulation Programme (GANRAP), a government-backed policy designed to increase the nation’s gold holdings and stabilise the economy.

Ibrahim Mahama’s Damang Mine sells entire first output to GoldBod

Africa’s largest industrial project is set to scale further, with Aliko Dangote announcing plans to expand the Dangote Refinery to a production capacity of 1.4 million barrels per day, a move expected to create up to 95,000 skilled jobs at peak construction.Billionaire Aliko Dangote, chief executive officer of Dangote Group, gestures after signing a factory construction contract with Sinoma International Engineering Co. Ltd. [Tom Saater/Bloomberg via Getty Images]<ul><li>Aliko Dangote has unveiled plans to expand the Dangote Refinery to 1.4 million barrels per day.</li><li>The project is expected to employ up to 95,000 skilled workers during peak construction.</li><li>Once completed, the facility could surpass India’s Jamnagar Refinery as the world’s largest.</li><li>The expansion is positioned as a major boost to Nigeria’s fuel security and industrial growth.</li></ul>Dangote made the disclosure in Lagos during his induction as an Honorary Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering, framing the expansion as a significant step in Nigeria’s industrialisation drive.“This award is particularly meaningful because it recognises what we are doing in the industry,” he said, adding that the project would employ “about 95,000 skilled workers on site” at its peak.Once completed, the upgraded facility is projected to surpass India’s Jamnagar Refinery to become the world’s largest refinery by capacity. The development is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s domestic refining capability, reduce reliance on imported fuel, and ease pressure on foreign exchange reserves.Dangote said the expansion would rely heavily on local expertise, creating opportunities for engineers, technicians, and artisans, while also driving technology transfer and supporting the broader oil and gas value chain.“The scale of this expansion reflects our confidence in Nigerian capacity and our belief that Africa can build world-class infrastructure,” he said.Industry observers note that the refinery has already been positioned as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s efforts to become a net exporter of refined petroleum products, with potential spillover effects across manufacturing and logistics.In a separate development, Abdullahi Sule called on the Dangote Group to deepen its investments in Nasarawa State, citing its untapped mineral resources.Speaking at the Nasarawa Trade Fair, Governor Sule, represented by a state official, said existing collaboration with the conglomerate could be expanded to support industrial growth.He also referenced the group’s long-term investment ambitions, including a $100 billion target under its Vision 2030 strategy, suggesting such commitments could bolster small businesses and stimulate broader economic activity.While the refinery expansion signals growing investor confidence in Nigeria’s industrial base, analysts say its long-term impact will depend on regulatory stability, infrastructure support, and global oil market dynamics.

Dangote plans world’s largest refinery expansion, targeting 95,000 jobs

A consortium led by investment firm HOF Capital has acquired a stake in the company behind the iconic Bugatti brand, indicating a significant shift in the ownership structure of one of the world's most prestigious automakers.Bugatti Chiron Profilée [BugattiNewsroom]<ul><li>A consortium led by HOF Capital is acquiring stakes in Bugatti Rimac, signaling a major ownership shift for the luxury automaker.</li><li>Porsche AG will fully exit Bugatti Rimac by selling its 45% stake and also divesting its 20.6% holding in Rimac Group.</li><li>BlueFive Capital, based in Abu Dhabi, joins as the largest investor, with additional support from institutional investors in the US and Europe.</li><li>Rimac Group will gain control of Bugatti Rimac and partner strategically with HOF and BlueFive to drive expansion.</li></ul>The transaction will see Porsche AG fully divest its stake in Bugatti Rimac, a joint venture founded in 2021 with Rimac.Porsche presently owns 45% of the brand, with Rimac Group controlling the remaining 55%.In addition to selling its Bugatti Rimac investment, Porsche will sell its 20.6% stake in Rimac Group as part of the deal.The purchase consortium is led by HOF Capital, which was co-founded by the Egyptian businessman, Onsi Sawiris, a member of Egypt's well-known wealthy family, alongside fellow Egyptian investors Hisham Elhaddad and Fady Yacoub.BlueFive Capital, an Abu Dhabi-based private equity firm, has joined the deal as the largest investor.The consortium will also comprise a mix of institutional investors from the United States and Europe, reflecting the substantial worldwide interest in the luxury automotive market.Rimac Group will take control of Bugatti Rimac and develop a strategic relationship with HOF Capital and BlueFive Capital to assist its continued expansion.In addition, HOF Capital will become the largest shareholder in Rimac Group, alongside Mate Rimac, the company's founder and CEO, as seen on the Porsche newsroom.The transaction's agreements, which were touted back in December 2025, were officially signed on April 24, according to comments released Friday. However, the purchase is still subject to regulatory approvals and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.“In setting up the joint venture Bugatti Rimac together with Rimac Group, we successfully laid the foundation for Bugatti’s future. As an early-stage investor of Rimac Group, Porsche made a significant contribution to developing Rimac Technology into an established Tier-1 automotive technology company,” Dr Michael Leiters, CEO of Porsche AG, stated.Billionaire Sawiris scion eyes Porsche’s Bugatti stake in $1.2b deal“Now, with the sale of our stake, we demonstrate that we will focus Porsche on the core business. We would like to thank Mate Rimac and his team for the constructive and trusting cooperation over the past years,” he added.<h3>Sawiris family and HOF Capital</h3>HOF Capital was co-founded by Onsi Sawiris, the father of billionaire Naguib Sawiris, and the former patriarch of the Egyptian billionaire family.At the same time, BlueFive is a private equity firm led by Hazem Ben-Gacem, formerly an executive at Investcorp.The group is known for investing in fast-growing technological startups and ambitious enterprises across numerous industries.Since its founding, HOF Capital has concentrated on early and growth-stage investments, particularly in fintech, enterprise software, and developing digital platforms.In recent years, HOF Capital has broadened its focus, taking part in larger and more significant transactions.The group’s co-founder, Naguib Sawiris, in October last year, announced a $50 billion push into U.S. real estate, and is currently the richest man in North Africa.

Egyptian-founded firm buys stake in one of the world’s most luxurious car brands

Ghana's state-owned cocoa buyer is unable to purchase cocoa from farmers after accumulating debts of 673 million cedis ($60 million) ​that have left it facing an asset seizure, a company source with knowledge of the matter told Reuters.The company, ‌Producer Buying Company, is legally mandated to purchase cocoa from any farmer as a buyer of last resort. The government pledged in February to restore it as the country's leading cocoa buying company.But three months later, PBC owes growers 24 million cedis for over 9,000 bags already delivered and lacks the ​liquidity to resume purchases, the company source said.A consortium of Ghanaian banks owed 257 million cedis secured a court order ​in March to sell off the company's assets, the source said.Ghana's cocoa industry has been in crisis as ⁠it has struggled to sell beans and pay farmers this year due to ample global harvests, lower cocoa prices and falling ​demand from chocolate makers for the ingredient.PBC's woes also stem from a loss of market share - it used to control 30% of the ​domestic market but currently buys less than 5% of cocoa produced in Ghana. Its problems risk further exacerbating financial hardship for Ghana's smallholder farmers, thousands of whom have not been paid for beans delivered since November 2025.The company source, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to brief ​the media, said COCOBOD has yet to reimburse PBC for 800 metric tons of cocoa delivered more than two months ago.Under Ghana's ​cocoa system, PBC and other Licensed Buying Companies that purchase cocoa from farmers then sell it to COCOBOD, the market regulator, which sells it ‌on to ⁠international buyers.Neither the finance ministry nor COCOBOD has responded to requests from PBC for support, the source said.The finance ministry and COCOBOD did not respond to requests for comment.Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson said in February that the revival of PBC was central to the government's strategy of supporting cocoa farmers, promising a reliable and transparent avenue for growers to sell their product ​at fair prices.The source said ​the minister has since not ⁠had any discussions with the company on the way forward.COCOBOD says it has been disbursing funds to buying companies. But the company source said PBC had not received any money.PBC’s debt includes over 24 ​months of unpaid staff salaries, vendor arrears and outstanding statutory payments, in addition to the 257 ​million cedis owed to ⁠banks, the source said.Two of the five banks in the consortium that secured a court order to sell off PBC assets are state-owned and all report to the finance ministry.SSNIT, the state pension fund and a major shareholder, has been reluctant to inject fresh capital into PBC, ⁠having ​not received expected dividends since its initial investment, the company source said.A structured COCOBOD ​intervention could turn things around, the company source said, if the board directed a share of international buyers towards PBC and released funds for purchases.PBC operates in ​all 127 cocoa-growing districts, giving it a bigger reach than any private company.

Farmers go unpaid as Ghana's indebted state cocoa buyer faces asset seizure, source says

African culinary creator Chef Abbys has for the past few years now been building a reputation for herself as the go-to person for everything African and Ghanaian cuisine. Her short form videos of various food recipes that are easy to replicate have found their way into most homes on the continent and in the diaspora. This has led her to receive accolades such as being named one of TIME 100’s top creators of 2025, getting the chance to cook with TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew and the Mayor of London Sadiq Khan.In extraordinary fashion, Chef Abbys decided to throw a spotlight on her home country Ghana’s cuisine and rich culture during Ghana’s Heritage Month celebration for the month of March. Throughout the whole month, the tour planned by UK-based cultural and creative organization My Runway Group, set out to explore Ghana’s heritage through food and tourism and after 25 days on the road, she completed a groundbreaking tour spanning 12 out of the 16 regions in Ghana. This feat, never before attempted on the African continent, took Chef Abbys beyond the kitchen, into the heart of each community. The 24 videos she created on this journey amassed almost 100 million views across Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, Facebook, Youtube and X. The feedback has been remarkable with Chef Abbys socials experiencing an 18% increase in just that short period.<img src="https://aukisscontent.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/3e145da1eIMG_5069.JPG">Over the course of this four-week expedition, Chef Abbys traveled from the mountainous terrains of the Eastern Region to the historic castles of the Central Region, from the lush forests of the Ashanti Region to the desert landscapes of the Upper East. Each region presented unique flavors,cuisine, markets, rich traditions, and both expected and unexpected challenges. From navigating remote villages to securing filming permissions at heritage sites, the journey was as much about resilience as it was discovery.Critics and locals alike have praised Chef Abbys for bringing a fresh lens to Ghana’s cultural tapestry. In a series of pop-up cooking demonstrations, each region’s cuisine, culture and tourist destinations were celebrated, drawing millions of views across the world. She got to cook at iconic Ghanaian tourist destinations like the Umbrella Rock, Elmina Castle, Nzulezu Floating Village, Larabanga Mosque, Kintampo Water Falls and even the Desert Safari.Speaking about her experience on the tour, Chef Abbys says, “exploring the 12 regions through food showed me how rich and diverse Ghana truly is. My goal is to make the world see Ghanaian cuisine not as one thing, but as a powerful collection of cultures, flavors, and histories.” She goes on to add that, “what I’ve started is more than a tour, it’s a movement to document, celebrate, and elevate cuisines and cultures from across the world, and I look forward to bringing the tour to other parts of the world.”Beyond the numbers, the impact is seen in a revived pride among locals and a new global curiosity about Ghana’s diverse culinary story. Chef Abbys’s historic journey flips the script for African culinary exploration, one where every region, every bite, and every story is a bridge between the past, present and future.<img src="https://aukisscontent.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/56c4f9867IMG_5163.JPG">Chef Abbys’ approach to food and content creation is very distinct amongst her peers. It’s not just about recipes, plating, or even taste, but for her, it’s about memory, identity, and the quiet power of culture being passed from one generation to the next.&nbsp;Long before the recognition, the awards, and the millions of followers, there was simply a deep curiosity to understand where dishes came from, why they mattered, and how they made people feel. That curiosity would eventually grow into something much bigger than a career.&nbsp;Today, Chef Abbys stands at the center of a new movement in African cuisine. Through her work, she has built a community of over 4 million people across platforms, including more than 2.2 million followers on TikTok. But what makes her influence powerful isn’t just the numbers, it’s the connection. People don’t just watch her content; they feel seen in it.

Chef Abbys Breaks New Ground With A First-of-Its-Kind Culinary and Cultural Journey Across Ghana’s Regions

Cypress

International Breweries, Nigeria’s second-biggest beer maker, is out of the woods at last as it reported its first annual profit since 2017 in the 2025 financial year.The results signal profound relief for AB InBev, the Belgian majority owner, which had endured seven harrowing years of losses.The company booked N50.9 billion in post-tax profit for 2025, relative to a net loss of N113.6 billion the previous year, its audited financial report issued on Friday stated.International Breweries, which owns popular beer brands such as<a href="https://us.budweiser.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">&nbsp;Budweiser</a>, Trophy, Hero and Castle Lite, is worth N739.7 billion in assets, placing it next to Heineken-backed Nigerian Breweries among the country’s top beer manufacturers.Its share price rose by 9.9 per cent to N13.35 in Lagos after the news went public. It is its strongest daily gain since the start of the year.<h3>Rough road to profitability</h3>AB InBev, in 2016, completed the purchase of SAB Miller’s interest in International Breweries, consolidating it with the stake it already held in the brewer, which totalled 72.2 per cent at the time.It proceeded to merge the entity with Intafact Beverages Limited and Pabod Breweries, two other companies where it held controlling stakes, the year after, hoping to unlock greater value from the broader economy of scale the consolidation would deliver.The deal was central to the investor’s strategic push to gain a huge swathe of Africa’s brewery business, following a slowdown in its European and North American operations, and targeted Nigeria as one of the most promising beer markets on the continent.International Breweries started reporting losses in 2018, when it posted negative earnings of N3.9 billion, driven by a 257.6 per cent surge in finance costs and the harmonisation of the accounts of the three entities that went through the business combination.Setting up a greenfield plant as vast as the Sagamu-based Gateway plant, completed at an initial cost of $250 million, added further pressure to its financials, particularly in financing costs and debt levels.Between 2019 and 2020, soaring operating costs and a flattish revenue growth lengthened the chain of losses.Post-tax loss, at its peak, crossed N113 billion in 2024, following four years when foreign exchange losses from a dollar crunch and far-reaching currency reforms in Nigeria hammered earnings.The winning factor that turned the tide last year, apart from an appreciable leap in revenue to N619 billion, was cutting back net foreign exchange loss to N13.7 billion from N165.7 billion.<h3>Free float troubles</h3>As of 2020, AB InBev had upped its shareholding to 87.3 per cent by virtue of a rights issue that raised N164.4 billion for the purpose of moderating the company’s debt level, which had been bloated by the cost of constructing the Gateway factory.Proceeds from another rights issue in 2024 helped it deleverage its balance sheet dramatically, as the cash was used to pay down a balance of $379.9 million on a sticky loan obtained from Citibank six years earlier.AB InBev fully exercised its rights under the share sale, driving its shareholding further up to 96 per cent.Allowing a single investor to own a stake that huge in a public company, to the extent that only 4 per cent of its issued shares are tradable in the open market, has been noted to make its shares hardly available to potential investors, consequently creating artificial scarcity.The practice tends to fuel jumps in share price without justifiable fundamentals to support most of the gains the stock records over time.The main board of the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), on which International Breweries is listed, requires that companies maintain a free float (the minimum number of shares that can be traded publicly) of 20 per cent or at least N40 billion worth of their shares.In a January 2025 disclosure, the brewer said the NGX had extended the deadline it had given the brewer to remedy the shortcoming._Source: Premium Times Nigeria

Nigeria’s second-biggest beer maker posts N51 billion profit after seven years of loss-making

China has halted imports of&nbsp;soybeans&nbsp;from five Brazilian exporters after inspectors found pesticide-treated wheat mixed into a cargo bound for Beijing, officials from both countries said on Thursday.The suspension by&nbsp;China’s General Administration of Customs&nbsp;was communicated to Brazil’s agriculture ministry on Wednesday and made public on Thursday.The ban covers two Cargill facilities and one plant each run by Louis Dreyfus Co., CHS Agronegocios and 3Tentos Agroindustrial. Four of the plants are in São Paulo state. One is in Rio Grande do Sul.Inspectors in China discovered the contamination during checks at a port. The ship Shine Ruby was carrying about 69,000 tonnes of soybeans. Inside the hold, they found roughly ten tonnes of wheat treated with a chemical coating not authorised for food or&nbsp;animal feed.The customs agency called it a “serious violation” of&nbsp;Chinese food safety rules. It said the pesticide involved is only approved for seed treatment and is considered toxic if consumed. Wheat from Brazil is not cleared for import to China, adding to the breach.In a letter to the Brazilian embassy in&nbsp;Beijing, the agency said the decision was made to protect public health and ensure the safety of imports. The order took effect on Thursday and applies only to the listed facilities. Other plants run by the same companies remain cleared to export.

China halts soy imports from Brazil plants, pivots to US amid food safety probe

Many have grown tired of wandering without direction through the darkness of Canadian cannabis legality surrounding food beyond snacks. Yet, a new document has just emerged. This isn’t another government white paper, or a dry legal textbook. It is a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) manual for cannabis-infused dining called CannaDine, and it’s a sign that we’re finally moving beyond the fearmongering and into a truly mature cannabis culture.This manual is nothing less than a blueprint for a: civilized, respectful, and safe way to consume. It directly addresses the most significant and often misunderstood aspects of edibles: the delayed onset and potency variability. As CannaDine rightly points out, it’s this unique characteristic that leads to overconsumption, turning a pleasant experience into a “nightmare.” This is the very core of why precision is so crucial to responsible consumption. By hammering home the principle of “start low, go slow,” the manual provides the kind of common-sense guidance that should have been mainstream from day one.The document then dives headfirst into the logistics of creating a safe environment, something that has been severely lacking in the cannabis community. It stresses that every detail matters, from sourcing cannabis legally and safely (avoiding the issues associated with an illicit market) to the meticulous process of dosing. It rightly frames the act of preparing cannabis-infused food not just as cooking, but as a scientific process, requiring digital scales and a precise understanding of milligrams. This is how we elevate infused dining from seeming like a dark-alley transaction to a sophisticated culinary practice, just as legal cannabis deserves.Where the manual truly shines, and where it distinguishes itself from other types of governing documents, is in its focus on the critical issues that have long been ignored. CannaDine’s unvarnished discussion on potential interactions with medications and, more importantly, the dangerous mix of cannabis and alcohol, is a monumental step forward.The guide doesn’t pull any punches, detailing how THC can affect everything from blood thinners to antidepressants. It’s a brave and necessary move to prioritize health and safety over all else, forcing a new conversation about responsible consumption. The blunt yet relevant language about the synergistic effect of mixing cannabis and alcohol (“cross fading),” which can lead to “greening out,” an intense anxiety, and dangerous impairment) is a much-needed public education campaign. It’s a simple notion, but one that often gets lost in the casual nature of a party, and the manual’s call to action is a powerful one: choose one, or the other.CannaDine even tackles the very act of a cannabis-infused gathering. It provides a full roadmap for event planning, from pre-notifying guests and designing menus with clear differentiation to managing the event itself with a sober host, and a clear emergency plan. It is a level of professionalism that has been missing from the conversation. The manual’s inclusion of emergency protocols and crisis management is a testament to its maturity. It acknowledges that, despite best intentions, things can go wrong, and a prepared, calm response is the only acceptable option.In the end, CannaDine is a blueprint for a better cannabis culture. It takes the formless lump of clay that is the living, changing nature of our laws and shows how it can create beautifully polished plates for everyone to use. By providing a clear, simple outline for every aspect of infused dining, it normalizes and professionalizes a practice that has long been shrouded in myth, and mystery. It’s a crucial step in ensuring that as more people feel comfortable with how and what they consume, we can build a safe, respectable, and ultimately, more enjoyable cannabis community._Source: TorontoCaribbean.com

Is this the missing blueprint for Canadian cannabis dining culture?

Ghana reportedly rejected a health deal with the US over terms that would require sharing citizens’ personal data, the latest sign of mounting privacy concerns around the agreements being pursued by Washington.More than a dozen African countries — including Nigeria, Rwanda, and Uganda — have signed up to the Trump administration’s America First Global Health Strategy, which asks countries to share data about pathogens that could spark epidemics, as a condition of receiving the funding. But data-sharing concerns prompted Zimbabwe to abandon talks this year over a similar deal to Ghana’s, and led a Kenyan court to suspend implementation of an agreement between Washington and Nairobi. The head of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has previously expressed “huge concerns” over data and pathogen-sharing between African countries and the US.Washington’s pursuit of deals comes after last year’s shuttering of the US Agency for International Development, which had disbursed $40 billion a year across 130 countries. USAID’s closure, along with aid budget cuts by other Western countries, has left some African governments struggling to cover health budget shortfalls.

Ghana ‘rejects’ US health deal over data concerns

World Malaria Day was observed recently and each year at this time, conversations tend to focus on progress — declining incidence rates, global eradication targets, and long-term public health milestones. While it is important to acknowledge the increased visibility this has brought to malaria control efforts and the advances in research and treatment, there is a growing concern that the narrative is becoming too abstract.In doing so, we risk losing sight of what is still happening on the ground: malaria has not become less dangerous. If anything, its outbreaks have become more predictable, yet responses remain dangerously delayed, particularly in underserved communities where access to timely care is based of finance.<img src="https://mydailynewsonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/iwIMFOzN.jpg">The World Health Organization estimates that malaria still causes over 200 million cases annually, with more than 600,000 deaths each year, and about 94% of those deaths occurring in Africa, predominantly among children under five. UNICEF continues to highlight malaria as one of the leading causes of preventable childhood mortality on the continent. These are not historical figures. They are the current realities.At Helpster Charity, between 2025 and 2026 to date, we supported 498 severe malaria cases requiring hospitalization. These were not mild or early-stage cases. Every patient in this cohort had already crossed into clinical severity — requiring urgent admission rather than outpatient treatment. The average age of these patients is 7.6 years, a figure that should immediately sharpen our understanding of where the burden is concentrated: children who depend entirely on the timing of adult decisions, access to care, and affordability.<img src="https://mydailynewsonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/8TD4N6g8.jpg">We also recorded cases involving pregnant women, including women in their early thirties, where malaria becomes not just an individual illness but a dual-risk condition affecting both mother and unborn child. In these situations, the consequences are intergenerational and far more complex than a single infection episode.These cases rarely exist alone. The most common complications we see include cerebral malaria, anemia, and kidney failure. Malaria acts as the trigger, but what unfolds is a wider clinical collapse shaped by delayed care-seeking, underlying vulnerability, and systemic gaps in early intervention. Most patients are hospitalized for an average of three days, but those three days are often preceded by much longer periods of unmanaged fever at home, where families delay seeking care due to cost constraints or uncertainty about severity.<img src="https://mydailynewsonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/3VOgL2-X.jpg">The financial reality is equally revealing. Across these cases, the average treatment cost is approximately $82.50, with extremes ranging from $15 to $560, depending on complexity. While these figures may appear modest in global health discussions, they are significant in the context of the households affected. Importantly, treatment is always initiated immediately at Helpster-supported facilities, before payment is resolved, because in severe malaria, delay is not clinically acceptable. Yet administrative confirmation of cases often takes between two weeks and one month, reflecting a persistent gap between urgent clinical response and slower institutional documentation systems.Malaria is also highly seasonal, and our data reflects clear clustering during and after rainy periods, with peaks consistently observed in May, June, October, and November. This is not new epidemiological knowledge. What remains unresolved is the implication of that predictability. Each year, the same seasonal conditions produce surges in severe cases, yet the preparedness of households and systems does not scale in proportion. Predictability without resilience simply becomes repetition.A further complexity lies in financing. Our intake system focuses on patients who cannot independently afford care, meaning every case represents not just a medical emergency but a financial one. In this context, conventional ideas around micro-credit or repayment capacity become difficult to apply meaningfully. In the middle of a child’s fever crisis, the question is not repayment structure — it is survival and immediacy of access.Within this cohort, luckily, we have no confirmed malaria-related deaths recorded based on available partner reporting and case management data. While this is encouraging, it should not be misread as evidence that risk is absent.<img src="https://mydailynewsonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/iUZzK6ep.jpg">What emerges clearly from this data is that malaria is no longer simply a disease of incidence. It is a disease of delay — delay in detection, delay in care-seeking, delay in financing, and delay in system coordination. It disproportionately affects young children and pregnant women, who have the least capacity to withstand these delays. And its true burden is not captured by infection numbers alone, but by the complications, comorbidities, and systemic inefficiencies that turn preventable illness into hospitalization.A child admitted for three days of inpatient care is not just a clinical case. It is an indicator of earlier failures — in prevention, in access, or in affordability. When nearly 500 such cases are recorded through one organization in just over a year, the question is no longer if malaria remains a public health challenge. The question is why severity is still the entry point into care.World Malaria Day must move beyond symbolic recognition and confront a harder truth: progress cannot be measured by declining incidence alone when preventable infections are still escalating into emergencies. Until early detection, timely access to care, and financing mechanisms operate with the same urgency as the disease itself, malaria will remain not something we are eliminating, but something we are repeatedly forced to manage at its most severe and costly stage.<img src="https://mydailynewsonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/MrlfIrPR.jpg">For the children and families behind these numbers, intervention after deterioration is not enough. At Helpster Charity, our work is rooted in closing that gap — continuously refining our systems to reach underserved communities earlier and ensure that lack of funds never delays lifesaving care. Our goal is simple: make access to quality healthcare immediate, efficient, and dependable when it matters most.But no single organization can solve this alone. Real progress depends on a collective effort; from donors who enable rapid response, to technology teams building transparent and efficient systems, to healthcare partners delivering critical care, and even to the patients and families who take the step to seek help. Ending malaria, and other treatable conditions like it, will require that shared commitment to act earlier, faster, and together.By Kate Lysykh, CEO, Helpster Charity.

The Real Malaria Crisis Is Delay To Hospital Access, And Health Financing

Did you know that April is Stress Awareness Month? I don’t know about you, but the month of April always makes me feel like I’m treading water. I don’t know if it’s just the time of the semester when I’m grading exams, helping students register for the fall, making sure seniors are all set for graduation, and assisting with summer internships … and that’s just my professor hat. I haven’t even begun to think about all of the other meetings and organizations and obligations in the various facets of my life … and I know I am not alone in sometimes feeling totally overwhelmed with the amount of work on my plate and news in my ears. The world seems like it is being pushed and pulled to limits many of us have not seen in our lifetimes and it can be, well, rather stress-inducing.&nbsp;It seems like everyone I speak to echoes my feelings of being so busy and emotionally drained by national and international politics that we feel like we’re on a Ferris wheel (fun fact: The Ferris wheel was actually designed by George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. for the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair). I’m seeing a certain level of burnout in my students, family members, friends, and just everyday New Yorkers I interact with on a daily basis. Many folks have expressed feelings of sheer emotional and mental exhaustion caused by the leaders in Washington, D.C. and the levels of incompetence and corruption and policies that make our lives more difficult and less safe.&nbsp;I definitely know this draining feeling and am trying to be proactive about how to take care of myself and reduce stress in this moment. First things first: I have been getting the adequate amount of sleep. Sleep is fuel for our minds, bodies, and spirits, and I am keenly aware that a good night’s rest will carry me a long way.&nbsp;I definitely do not exercise as much as I should, but I know getting endorphins moving helps not only produce better sleep and decrease anxiety, but the sheer activity of sweating away the day does wonders for emotional regulation. More exercise, beyond just walking, is something I will work on in the upcoming weeks to help decrease the overall stressors of life these days.For some, stress can have severe and long-standing health effects. It is imperative for us to be in community with others so we can name the issue and find solutions for it before it becomes something unmanageable and irreversible. Sometimes just saying what the stressor is can be an important step in alleviating it.&nbsp;For the remainder of the month, let’s be mindful about taking care of ourselves. Let’s get out in nature; get good rest; and make our mental and physical health a priority.&nbsp;Christina Greer, Ph.D., is an associate professor at Fordham University; author of the books “How to Build a Democracy: From Fannie Lou Hamer and Barbara Jordan to Stacey Abrams” and “Black Ethnics: Race, Immigration, and the Pursuit of the American Dream”; and co-host of the podcast FAQ-NYC._Source: Amsterdam News

Find ways to observe Stress Awareness Month

Launched on April 15, 2026, by President John Dramani Mahama, Ghana’s Free Primary Health Care (FPHC) programme aims to eliminate financial barriers to essential health services. It targets 150 underserved districts, covering services like screenings, maternal care, and malaria treatment at CHPS compounds and clinics, aiming for universal coverage by 2028.Key Details of the Free Primary Health Care Programme<ul><li>Target Population &amp; Launch:&nbsp;The policy targets the approximately 35% of Ghanaians currently not covered by the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). It officially rolls out in phases, beginning in April 2026 and aims for nationwide expansion by 2028.</li><li>Services Covered:&nbsp;The policy focuses on preventive care, including:</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Routine screening for hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and mental health.</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Maternal and child health services (antenatal care, immunization).</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Treatment for common diseases (malaria, pneumonia, respiratory infections).</li><li class="ql-indent-1">Basic emergency care, counseling, and referrals.</li><li>Access Requirements:&nbsp;Access is at the primary level (CHPS compounds, health centres, and polyclinics) simply with a valid national ID card.</li><li>Financing and Scope:&nbsp;About 1.5 billion Ghana cedis has been allocated to the initiative to reduce out-of-pocket costs and complement the existing NHIS.</li><li>Infrastructure Support:&nbsp;Over 24,000 pieces of equipment, including incubators and ultrasound machines, have been acquired to support the rollout.</li></ul>Objectives and ContextThe initiative is designed to address a 35% coverage gap in the current NHIS, shifting the health system's focus from treatment to prevention. It specifically targets vulnerable populations, attempting to reduce the burden of disease at the community level.Challenges and Considerations<ul><li>Implementation Concerns:&nbsp;Critics argue that, despite the promise, the key to success lies in tackling historical issues regarding implementation, logistics, and consistent funding.</li><li>Sustainability:&nbsp;Concerns have been raised regarding the long-term funding model and its ability to truly eliminate out-of-pocket expenses for all basic care.</li></ul>While some updates for a 2025 rollout were previously discussed, the official launch as reported is on April 15, 2026, according to official social media sources.<img src="https://aukisscontent.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/61141fa59IMG_3442.jpeg">

Ghana’s President Mahama launches Free Primary Care, Mahama Care

The transition from private, foreign-hosted Lightwave Health Information Management System (LHIMS) to a state-owned Ghana Health Information Management System (GHIMS) is a watershed moment for Ghana’s digital health care. Driven by serious contractual breaches and concerns over data sovereignty, the move rightly refocuses attention on the crucial question: How does Ghana’s legal framework, specifically the Data Protection Act, 2012 (Act 843), protect sensitive medical records of every Ghanaian citizen?Securing sovereignty The Health Minister's assurance that GHIMS will safeguard national health data is a direct response to the loss of administrative control experienced under LHIMS, whose cloud infrastructure was hosted outside Ghana. This crisis highlights the vulnerability of outsourcing a nation's most sensitive data without robust safeguards.The shift to a state-owned and managed system, which will prevent any single vendor from monopolising the data, is a welcome step, though long overdue,&nbsp;towards ensuring data sovereignty. Legal mandate Ghana’s Data Protection Act (DPA) provides a foundation for protecting patient data, which is classified as “special personal data” due to its highly sensitive nature. The DPA mandates that anyone processing this data must do so lawfully and reasonably, "without infringing the privacy rights" of the patient. Crucially, the DPA's Lawfulness of Processing principle generally requires the prior consent of the data subject.While the law permits processing special data for “medical purposes” (diagnosis, care, research) when a health professional is involved and bound by a duty of confidentiality, this framework places a clear and immediate responsibility on both the former processor (LHIMS) and the new one (GHIMS) to maintain absolute confidentiality and apply stringent data security safeguards. Human cost LHIMS' refusal to hand over administrative access to the nation’s health data is more than a contractual dispute; it is a profound human rights issue. When hospitals across the country were logged out, the action constituted a direct denial of the patient’s fundamental right to health and, potentially, the right to life. Patient medical history is the bedrock of safe and effective care. The instant lack of access to this data, which includes critical information on past surgeries, chronic conditions, and medication regimens built up over years, forces healthcare providers to return to archaic folder systems and, worse, requires patients to attempt to "rebuild" their own medical history.Mitigating breach risk A key threat in the transition from LHIMS to GHIMS is the unauthorised retention or use of patient data by the previous vendor, LHIMS. Patients have a Data Subject Right to request that a data controller destroy or delete personal data when it no longer has the authorisation to retain it. The use of this historical data by LHIMS for secondary purposes, such as research without consent, would violate the DPA's Specification of Purpose and Compatibility of Further Processing principles. LHIMS collected data for patient care management under a contract; At the end of the contract, any further use or retention of the records could be termed as an unauthorised infringement. The Data Protection Commission (DPC) must intervene to enforce the destruction or handover of these records.Comparing frameworks Ghana's Data Protection Act (DPA) shares essential elements with Europe's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which is the global benchmark for data rights. Both legal frameworks emphasise explicit consent for processing, especially for sensitive data; and strong data subject rights (access, rectification, and erasure). However, the LHIMS case clearly demonstrated the risks of external data hosting.While the GDPR imposes strict rules on Cross-Border Transfers, requiring an 'adequate level of protection,' LHIMS's foreign-hosted infrastructure exposed Ghana's data to jurisdiction risk. The DPA is robust in principle, but enforcement and resource allocation to the DPC in Ghana remain a challenge compared to Europe's highly funded regulatory bodies.Recommendations to fully secure patient data under the new GHIMS platform and prevent future lapses, the following actions are critical:• The Data Protection Commission (DPC) must immediately take strong action against LHIMS to compel the full, verified destruction or secure transfer of all patient data. • Government must enact a clear policy requiring all critical national health data to be hosted within Ghana’s geographical borders, under state-controlled infrastructure, to ensure true and permanent data sovereignty.• The Data Protection Commission (DPC) must be provided with adequate financial and human resources to effectively monitor and enforce compliance, conduct mandatory audits of GHIMS, and investigate data breaches promptly.• Launch a campaign to inform Ghanaians of their Data Subject Rights under the DPA, especially concerning their health records, and the straightforward process for filing complaints with the DPC.The move to GHIMS is an opportunity to reset the standard for digital health security in Ghana. We must ensure that the governing law is not just a promise but is robustly enforced to protect the privacy and confidentiality of every Ghanaian patient.

GHIMS vrs LHIMS: How is patient data being protected in the process?

magazine-scapper

Barbados Reggae Weekend ended on a high note after three nights at Kensington Oval, with organisers hailing the 2026 staging for its record attendance.&nbsp;The festival, which ran from Friday to Sunday, featured its signature events: Mount Gay Legends of Reggae, Guinness Showdown, and Reggae in the Gardens.Speaking to reporters on Sunday night, sonsorship manager Michelle Straughn said the turnout had surged across the weekend, estimating that attendance at Guinness Showdown doubled, while that of Reggae in the Gardens tripled.&nbsp;Straughn noted that, despite production challenges, the event continues to position Barbados as a premier entertainment destination.“At the end of the day, we are happy. We are doing this on behalf of Barbados, to help build Barbados as another destination of festivals because I think we were losing that somewhat when the Barbados Reggae Weekend went away,” she said.The organiser also noted that this year marked the first time the festival was livestreamed worldwide, with patrons purchasing tokens for digital access. According to Straughn, the process was “seamless” and organisers intend to continue the initiative for future eventsCommenting on the use of Kensington Oval as the event’s venue for the first time, Straughn described the venue as “beautiful”, despite logistical considerations.“The venue is beautiful,” she said. “We still had to make sure that we protect the pitches so that cricket can be played here in Barbados.”Straughn said she hopes the festival will help attract visitors ahead of the island’s summer arrivals. “We are hoping that from here on in, we start seeing plane-fulls coming in April, before we start to get [visitors] in July.”The festivities opened Friday with the Mount Gay Legends of Reggae Show and Dance, where icons including Barrington Levy, Super Cat, Sister Nancy, Norris Man, JC Lodge and Biggie Irie delivered nostalgic performances despite technical issues that affected sections of the show. Levy emerged as a standout, while deejays Jerry Dan and Lil Rick kept patrons entertained between sets.Saturday’s Showdown shifted the tempo with a dancehall-heavy showcase led by Popcaan, while Capleton and General Degree delivered hit-filled sets. Local acts Maasta T, Doejay, Brutal Crankstar, Weather 40 and Idea the Artist also earned strong crowd reactions. Although 450 did not appear, organisers later confirmed his move to Sunday’s lineup.Reggae in the Gardens brought the curtain down on Sunday with headliner Fantasia leading a diverse cast that included Dexta Daps, Kranium, Admiral Tibet, DJ Puffy, D’Yani, Spice and Company, and Rite Side of Red featuring Buggy Nhakente and Rhesa Garnes.

Reggae Weekend draws record crowds, says organiser

Joseph Okpako/Redferns via Getty ImagesDrake's Iceman isn't just taking over the culture, it's been dominating the charts — as have his two other surprise albums.According to trusted music outlet Hits Daily Double, the rapper's new album, which arrived on Friday (May 15), is expected to debut at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart next week, and is projected to sell 480,000-520,000 equivalent units in its first week.Drizzy’s surprise albums, Maid of Honour and Habibti, which were released on the same day as Iceman, are also slated to have a high position on the chart, moving 115,000-135,000 equivalent units and 110,000-130,000 equivalent units, respectively.If the 6 God scores another No. 1 single, he’s on track to surpass the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson. The artists are currently tied at 13 chart-topping hits on the Billboard Hot 100, hence Drake wearing a sparkly glove similar to Jackson on the Iceman album cover.Earlier this week, the five-time Grammy winner made music history with being named the artist with the most albums that have spent 10 years on the Billboard 200. Before him was Jackson with Thriller, while Drake’s record-breaking albums are Take Care, Nothing Was the Same and Views, all released during the 2010s.In less than 48 hours of being released, Iceman, Maid of Honour and Habibti have reached other global streaming milestones on Apple Music, Amazon Music and Spotify. On Spotify alone, Drake nabbed highest-streamed artist of 2026 so far, along with highest-streamed album (Iceman) and song ("Make Them Cry") in a single day.

Drake's 'Iceman,' 'Maid of Honour,' and 'Habibti' Albums: Blockbuster First Week Sales Projections

Sound architect, Strei returns with his new single “Anxiety,” a deeply introspective release that marks a defining moment in his artistic evolution.Emerging as a distinct voice within Afrobeats through his self-defined Afromood sound, Strei leans fully into emotional transparency on this record, offering a piece that is as exposed as it is intentional. Rather than channeling emotion through layered rhythms and melodic ease, “Anxiety” places the feeling itself at the center, direct, unresolved, and unfiltered.“This song is exactly what the title suggests,” Strei explains. “It came from a place of expressing raw, unfiltered emotions, both positive and negative. I deal with anxiety personally, so this was me being open about that experience and putting those feelings into the music.”Built on the foundation of his Afromood sound, the single presents one of the clearest expressions of his artistic identity to date. The production is restrained yet immersive, allowing space for vulnerability to sit at the forefront. Rather than chasing sonic complexity, the record prioritizes emotional clarity, creating a listening experience that feels direct and personal. It is a sound defined less by genre conventions and more by its ability to translate internal states into music.“I’d describe the sound as Afromood,” he adds. “It’s expressive, vulnerable, and emotional. This song reflects everything I aim to put into my music and defines the core of my sound.”The inspiration behind “Anxiety” is rooted in lived experience. Drawing from his own encounters with anxiety, Strei approaches the subject without resolution or pretense. The song does not attempt to offer answers, instead, it documents the feeling in its rawest form. Both the tension and the quiet moments within it are captured, reflecting the duality of the experience itself.In many ways, “Anxiety” builds directly on the foundation laid by his previous project, ITAM (Introduction to Afromood). Where that body of work introduced the framework of his sound, this single is refined and more focused it.“This record is a more refined, focused, and cleaner version of what I introduced before,” Strei notes. “It’s one of the most fully realized expressions of Afromood so far.”The creation process reflects that same sense of immediacy. Developed at KTIZO Studios in collaboration with producers Treasure and Big Space, the track was built from the ground up in a single day. From production to vocal recording, the core of the song came together organically, driven by instinct rather than structure.“My process is very organic,” he says. “We built the beat from scratch, I freestyled melodies, and then developed the strongest ideas. For this song, I already had the theme in mind, so certain words naturally came through and evolved into the full story.”Live guitar elements performed by Big Space add a subtle but effective layer, reinforcing the track’s emotional weight without overwhelming it. What followed was a period of refinement, ensuring the final record remained true to its original feeling while achieving technical precision.At its core, “Anxiety” is not positioned as a solution, but as an expression. It speaks to listeners who recognize the experience within themselves, offering connection rather than commentary.“This isn’t about solving anxiety,” Strei concludes. “It’s about expressing it honestly and creating something that people who feel the same way can connect with.”As his catalogue continues to grow, Strei remains focused on developing a sound that prioritizes emotional truth. “Anxiety” does not attempt to broaden his identity; it sharpens it. In doing so, it reinforces his position as an artist committed to exploring the internal landscape with clarity and intent.

Afromood Architect Strei Unveils New Single “Anxiety”

Ghanaian comic actor and content creator, Dr. Likee, is taking a bold step beyond digital screens and into international live performance, as he prepares for a major show in London this May, 2026.Known for his viral skits and distinctive storytelling style, the Kumawood star is headlining a comedy event at the O2 Indigo in London on May 22nd, 2026. A significant milestone that reflects the growing global appeal of Ghanaian digital creators.For years, Dr. Likee has built a loyal audience through short-form comedy content, dominating platforms like YouTube and Facebook with millions of views. But this upcoming show marks a shift, one that pushes his craft into live performance and stand-up comedy.The event represents his first major international stage production of this kind, bringing his uniquely Ghanaian humour to a global audience.<img src="https://aukisscontent.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/3714f2ba314768677192026.jpeg"> Dr. Likee’s rise has not been accidental. Beyond comedy, he has built a strong personal brand that extends into business ventures and collaborations. His content is widely shared, and his influence continues to grow across multiple platforms.Behind the scenes, the London show is supported by a dedicated team and network of collaborators working to ensure its success. From production planning to audience engagement, the project reflects a collective effort to elevate Ghanaian comedy on the global stage.Despite his ambitions, Dr.Dr.&nbsp;Likee remains grounded in his identity and origins. His content continues to reflect everyday Ghanaian life, a key factor in his relatability and success.

Dr. Likee Sets Sights On Global Stage

Boxing superstar Canelo Alvarez, a multi-division world champion and one of the highest-paid athletes, has enrolled in college courses at the University of San Diego while recovering from elbow surgery. The 35-year-old Mexican boxer, who plans to return to the ring in September, is looking to gain new knowledge and skills to prepare for a future beyond the ring.<h2>WHY IT MATTERS</h2>Alvarez's decision to enroll in college courses during his injury layoff is notable, as many elite athletes struggle to plan for life after their playing careers end. By proactively pursuing higher education, Canelo is taking steps to ensure his financial security and develop business skills that could serve him well once he retires from boxing.<h2>THE DETAILS</h2>Alvarez announced his college enrollment on his Instagram, posting a photo of himself on the University of San Diego campus. In the photo, he is holding a whiteboard that lists his teacher's name as 'Bryan' and his goal of becoming a 'Businessman' when he 'grows up.' The boxing star also noted that he is part of the 'Class of 2027,' suggesting he does not plan to be in school for an extended period.<ul><li>Canelo Alvarez plans to return to the boxing ring in September 2026 after recovering from elbow surgery.</li><li>Alvarez announced his college enrollment on his Instagram on April 7, 2026.</li></ul><h2>WHAT THEY’RE SAYING</h2>“It's never too late to start. First day of school.”— Canelo Alvarez<h2>WHAT’S NEXT</h2>Canelo Alvarez is expected to return to the boxing ring in September 2026 after recovering from his elbow surgery.

Boxing star Canelo Alvarez enrolled in college amid injury layoff

At a time when Lebanon and the wider Arab region is plunged in deep conflict that has cost hundreds of lives, a symbolic monument has arisen to bring a sense of comfort, protection and hope to people's hearts. In March 2026, a massive statue of Christ the Redeemer was erected on Jabal Al-Salib ("Mount of the Cross" in Arabic) in the Lebanese town of Al Qaa, overlooking the Bekaa plain. Close to the Syrian border in the north, Al Qaa's population is predominantly Christian and has in recent history been subjected to extremist violence, caused by ISIS militants, a decade ago. Amongst Arab nations, Lebanon is home to one of the biggest Christian communities, where around 30% of the population follows Christianity.Designed by Lebanese architect George Makhlouf, the white-coloured statue is made of fiberglass, and more than three tonnes of steel were used to protect it from windy conditions. The statue is 16 metres tall, standing on a 10-metre base, making the whole 26-metre structure one of the largest monuments of Christ in the Middle East. The project was in the making for over a year and was the brainchild of Fady Awad, who comes from Al Qaa and saw the monument come to life with the support of the Al Qaa municipality and fellow locals. Some residents also hope that it will encourage religious tourism for pilgrims around the world. The Levant region contains significant Christian monuments, including the "I Have Come to Save the World" statue of Christ in Saidnaya, Syria.According to Syriac Press, the monument, where Christ is slightly raising his hands, will soon open a church and the location of which the monument stands upon holds meaning. “The statue stands at a location that was once considered a direct frontline with the Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist organisation, overlooking the Beqaa Valley and parts of Syrian territory. Organisers explained that the choice of the Mount of the Cross was deliberate, due to the historical and spiritual significance the site holds for the people of Al Qaa,” reads the article.On social media, most of people's feedback was positive. One user wrote: “Long live Islam and Christianity. Much love and respect [for] our Christian brothers.” Another user commented: “What an incredible feat of engineering and faith! This statue is truly a beacon of hope for the people of Lebanon and a reminder of God's love and protection. May it stand tall for generations to come.” In an interview with the television station MTV Lebanon, Georges Mattar, who organises festivals in Al Qaa, spoke of the new statue's unifying power across different religious sects, saying: “This is a message for everyone, for our neighbouring Shia and Sunni brothers. Our message is love. We are all for coexistence. Christ is for everyone," he said. "Everyone will visit this statue, not just the people of Al Qaa.”_Source: Vogue Arabia

Lebanon erects one of the Largest Statues of Christ

Sino-African trade is marked by a growing imbalance in China's favourChina will scrap tariffs for all African countries from Friday – except Eswatini, which maintains ties with Taiwan.As of December 2024, China had already implemented a duty-free policy for 33 least-developed African nations. The policy now covers 53 countries, and will be in place until 30 April 2028. It is unclear what will happen after that.Beijing has boasted that it is the first major economy to offer unilateral zero-tariff treatment to Africa.But analysts say that while China is seizing the chance to enhance its soft power, they point out that tariffs are rarely the main obstacle for exporters in Africa which has a huge trade deficit with China."China is positioning itself as the trade liberaliser and Africa-friendly economic partner, in contrast to Donald Trump and the US," says Lauren Johnston, a senior research fellow at the AustChina Institute.The US had hit some African nations with tariffs of up to 30% in August, although most are now subject to a 10% tariff, after the US Supreme Court struck down many of the duties.The expansion of China's zero-tariff regime could increase African agricultural exports, which will "help to elevate rural incomes, improve rural productivity, and ultimately to reduce hunger and poverty", Johnston says.But Sino-African trade is marked by a growing imbalance in China's favour, which means Chinese exports to Africa far exceed African exports to China, and that difference is widening.Last year, Africa's trade deficit with China rose by 65% to about $102bn.Africa's exports to China are dominated by minerals and raw materials, such as crude oil and metallic ores.Currently, China's main trading partners in the region include Angola, driven primarily by oil, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and South Africa.However, a consistent duty-free regime across such a heterogenous continent could result in uneven gains, Johnston notes.More developed, industrialised economies like South Africa and Morocco will be better positioned to expand exports, she says.On its own, the zero-tariff policy does not address continent-wide needs for economic restructuring and infrastructure upgrading, adds Jervin Naidoo, a political analyst at Oxford Economics Africa."Many African economies still face structural constraints, such as limited industrial capacity, weak logistics, and a reliance on raw commodity exports, which tariff reductions alone cannot address," he says.Africa's exports to China are dominated by raw materials, such as cobalt, seen here in a factory in the Democratic Republic of CongoAlfred Schipke, director of the East Asian Institute in Singapore, agrees that short-term economic impact "will likely be modest and concentrated in African countries that already have export capacity"."Over the long term, however, the potential could be more meaningful, especially if African countries are able to expand production, diversify exports, and move up the value chain," Schipke says.Amit Jain, another Singapore-based expert in China-Africa relations, notes that changing consumer demand in China could open up new markets for African producers. For instance, Chinese consumers are buying far more coffee and nuts than they did 20 years ago.Economist Ken Gichinga agrees."These new measures will improve access to Chinese markets, closing that trade deficit and expand opportunities for African companies to prosper," he told the BBC."For Kenya, it will be a big boost to certain subsectors such as avocado. The agriculture sector will benefit the most - macadamia nuts, coffee, tea and leather."Africa fiscal policy economist Wangari Kebuchi said short-term support for foreign exchange earnings and "a modest boost to agriculture, mining and logistics sectors" were welcome - but medium and long-term fiscal gains would not materialise from market access alone."The structural problem has not changed. Africa continues to export raw materials and import manufactured goods. That asymmetry drives persistent trade deficits, constrains domestic revenue mobilisation, and limits the jobs and tax base that governments need to fund public services."Zero tariffs on commodities that have already left our shores unprocessed do not solve that problem. They can entrench it. African governments must now ask the harder questions. How do we use improved market access as leverage for industrial policy?"The analysts believe the exclusion of Eswatini is a political move with limited economic impact.In fact, Jain believes that this "may even help Eswatini win even more economic concessions from Taiwan".The landlocked nation in southern Africa is among just 12 countries that have diplomatic relations with Taiwan, which Beijing sees as a breakaway province that will eventually be "reunited" with China.Many in Taiwan, a self-governed island, consider themselves to already be part of a sovereign nation.Last month, Taiwan's leader Lai Ching-te had to cancel a trip to Eswatini after three other African countries – Seychelles, Mauritius and Madagascar – barred his aircraft from flying over their territories. Taiwan has accused them of doing so under "intense pressure" and economic coercion from China.By sidelining Eswatini, China is "weaponising its ties with African countries, and showing how relations with China comes up with strings attached", Wen-Ti Sung, a political scientist with the Australian National University's Taiwan Centre.

China scraps tariffs for all but one African nation

Kenya is set to enter Africa’s oil-producing club for the first time, with commercial production expected to begin before the end of the year from the South Lokichar fields in Turkana, even as the country continues to explore long-term refining options to support future output growth.Kenya secures spot on Africa’s oil-producing list with first-ever output at 20,000 bpd<ul><li>Kenya will start commercial oil production from the South Lokichar fields before year-end, beginning at 20,000 barrels per day and rising to 50,000 bpd.</li><li>Kenya's current oil output is too low for viable domestic refining, with sustainable operations requiring at least 100,000 barrels per day.</li><li>The government prioritizes upstream production and export readiness, while investments in refining depend on future output and regional integration.</li><li>Africa’s overall oil production is increasing, with countries like Nigeria leading and new refineries like Dangote shifting the continent toward fuel self-sufficiency.</li></ul>Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi told lawmakers that initial production will start at about 20,000 barrels per day and gradually rise to 50,000 bpd, marking Kenya’s transition from pilot exports to full commercial oil production.Wandayi also noted that while oil output is now becoming viable, Kenya’s refining ambitions remain constrained by scale.Previous assessments of the Mombasa refinery found it economically unfeasible under current production levels, with experts indicating that sustainable refining requires between 100,000 and 500,000 barrels per day—well above Kenya’s early output.“For the first time, Kenya is going to commercially produce oil,” he said, adding that upstream production and export readiness remain the government’s priority while downstream investments will depend on future scale and regional integration opportunities.Kenya’s entry into oil production comes as East Africa continues to explore regional refining plans involving Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, aimed at reducing reliance on imported fuel.While no firm deal has been reached, discussions have revived the idea of a shared refinery to process future crude output across the region.Kenya’s new production is seen as a potential boost to these ambitions, even though current volumes remain too low to independently support large-scale refining<h3>Africa’s oil map shifts amid global supply pressures</h3>Africa remains one of the world’s key oil-producing regions, led by countries such as Nigeria, Angola, and Algeria.President of Kenya William Ruto of Kenya. [Photo by Patrick van Katwijk/Getty Images]Nigeria alone produces around 1.2–1.5 million barrels per day in recent years, making it Africa’s largest producer despite output fluctuations linked to theft and infrastructure challenges.However, global oil markets have become increasingly sensitive to geopolitical instability, particularly in the Middle East, where disruptions around key supply routes such as the Strait of Hormuz have repeatedly triggered price spikes.Even minor disruptions in that corridor can affect nearly a fifth of global oil flows.These pressures have accelerated demand for alternative supply sources, particularly from Atlantic Basin producers in Africa.<h3>Refining shift and regional winners</h3>The rise in African production is also reshaping downstream dynamics. Nigeria’s privately owned Dangote Refinery with a capacity of about 650,000 barrels per day, is already altering fuel trade flows by reducing reliance on imported refined products and positioning West Africa as a net refining hub.As more African countries move into production, regional supply chains are expected to shorten, reducing exposure to external chokepoints and lowering import dependency.While Kenya’s initial output is modest compared to continental giants, its entry into oil production expands Africa’s upstream footprint and strengthens regional diversification.The South Lokichar Basin remains Kenya’s most significant hydrocarbon asset, with future production expected to support export earnings, energy security, and broader fiscal stability.Across the continent, rising output, combined with refining expansion and shifting global demand signals a gradual rebalancing of Africa’s role from a primarily raw exporter to a more integrated energy producer.

Kenya secures spot on Africa’s oil-producing list with first-ever output at 20,000 bpd

Foreign gold miners are holding firm in Mali despite rising conflict, with some companies increasing spending on self-funded security to safeguard operations and manage growing risks.Foreign gold miners hold firm in Mali, some turn to self-funded security amid conflict<ul><li>International mining companies continue to invest in Mali despite escalating violence and political instability.</li><li>Recent attacks by jihadist groups and Tuareg separatists, including the assassination of the Defence Minister, have increased security concerns.</li><li>The Malian government is tightening control over the industry by combating illegal mining and boosting local authorities’ resources, aiming to reassure investors amid complex risks.</li><li>Mining operations persist as Mali remains a top gold producer, with ongoing investments from firms including Eagle Eye Asset Holdings, Toubani Resources, and Barrick Gold.</li></ul>Gold mining operations in Mali are continuing despite escalating violence, with several international operators maintaining production and, in some cases, strengthening self-funded security to protect personnel and assets.Some operators told Reuters the impact of the unrest has so far been limited. Australian miner Resolute Mining said its Syama gold mine remains fully operational and that the recent surge in violence has not affected staff safety, logistics, or output.Similarly, a source at Zijin said the company has professional armed security in place, while a senior official at Ganfeng Lithium, which owns 65% of Mali’s Goulamina lithium project, said the mine is located away from affected areas and that the company is prepared for potential disruptions.<h3>Attacks heighten security concerns</h3>These measures come as renewed tensions follow coordinated attacks by jihadist groups and Tuareg separatists that killed Defence Minister Sadio Camara, raising fresh concerns over investor confidence and the country’s security environment.The 47-year-old minister died in a car bomb attack at his residence in Kati, a military town near the capital Bamako.The attacks also targeted the capital’s airport and forced foreign-backed troops to retreat from parts of the north, heightening concerns over supply routes, asset security, and mining operations.The violence has drawn international attention, with several Western governments, including the United Kingdom, United States, France, and Canada, advising their citizens to avoid travel to Mali or leave if it is safe to do so.<h3>Miners weigh risks against strong commodity demand</h3>Despite the instability, most mining companies have maintained operations, industry executives and analysts told Reuters.Mali remains one of Africa’s top gold producers at a time when global prices are near record highs.The country also holds significant deposits of lithium and uranium, reinforcing its strategic importance in global commodity markets.The Malian government said operations to counter insurgents are ongoing and that the situation is under control, although concerns persist within the industry.The Malian government is tightening control over the industry by combating illegal mining and boosting local authorities’ resources, aiming to reassure investors amid complex risks.<h3>Policy shifts add pressure on investors</h3>Alongside security risks, regulatory changes have added another layer of complexity for investors.Mali’s military-led government introduced a new mining code in August 2023, increasing state and local ownership in projects to as much as 35%, up from about 20% previously.The reforms also removed certain tax exemptions, imposed stricter local content requirements, and gave the government priority in allocating mining permits, particularly for strategic minerals such as lithium and uranium.These changes have already affected output, with the West African country recording a 32% year-on-year decline in industrial gold production in 2025, equivalent to a loss of 26.2 tonnes by August.Production also fell 22.5% below government projections during the same period.<h3>Investment continues despite uncertainty</h3>Even with rising risks, investment activity continues across Mali’s mining sector. Singapore-based Eagle Eye Asset Holdings recently signed a $120 million agreement with Cora Gold to support the Sanankoro project in southern Mali.Australia-listed Toubani Resources has begun construction of its $216 million Kobada project, while Canada’s Barrick Gold expects to produce between 260,000 and 290,000 ounces in 2026 from its Loulo-Gounkoto mine.

Gold miners press on in Mali amid rising conflict, with some turning to self-funded security to protect operations

Africa’s economic power is increasingly concentrated in a handful of countries, with just five nations projected to generate nearly half of the continent’s total GDP in 2026, according to International Monetary Fund (IMF) projections.<img src="https://ocdn.eu/pulscms-transforms/1/spKktkqTURBXy9jZmFkY2JjY2FkY2ZmNWFiZWQ0YjE2MGI1ZTIzM2ExMS5qcGVnkpUDACXNBLDNAqOTBc0BWcys">Meet the 5 economic superpowers projected to drive 50% of Africa's $3.6 trillion economy in 2026<ul><li>By 2026, five countries - South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria, Algeria, and Morocco, will generate nearly half of Africa’s total GDP.</li><li>South Africa retains its lead as the continent’s largest economy, followed by Egypt and Nigeria, with Algeria and Morocco rounding out the top five.</li><li>Currency devaluations, commodity cycles, and industrial expansion have caused notable shifts among Africa’s top economies in recent years.</li><li>The economic concentration among these five nations attracts greater investment and drives continental growth, but also risks deepening gaps with smaller, less diversified economies.</li></ul>Combined, the five economies account for approximately $1.8 trillion out of Africa’s projected $3.6 trillion economy in 2026 highlighting the growing concentration of economic activity across the continent.Data from the IMF’s April 2026 World Economic Outlook shows that South Africa remains Africa’s largest economy with a projected nominal GDP of about $480 billion.It is followed by Egypt at roughly $430 billion, while Nigeria ranks third with an estimated $377 billion economy.Algeria is projected to contribute around $317 billion, supported largely by hydrocarbon exports, while Morocco rounds out the top five with nearly $194 billion in GDP.Over the past six years, Africa’s top economies have undergone notable shifts driven by currency devaluations, inflation, and commodity cycles.South Africa has largely retained its lead, while Egypt emerged as one of the continent’s fastest-rising economies before settling into second place.Nigeria saw the sharpest setback after naira devaluations weakened its dollar-denominated GDP, while Morocco steadily strengthened its position through industrial expansion and export growth.<h3>The forces behind Africa’s biggest economies</h3>South Africa continues to dominate through its diversified industrial base, sophisticated banking system, and mining sector.Egypt’s economy has expanded through infrastructure megaprojects, manufacturing, tourism, and strategic revenues from the Suez Canal.Nigeria remains one of Africa’s most influential economies due to its population size, oil production, and rapidly growing technology ecosystem, despite inflation and currency pressures.Algeria’s economy is heavily driven by natural gas exports, especially to Europe, while Morocco has strengthened its position as a regional manufacturing and logistics hub, particularly in automotive production and renewable energy.The IMF projections underline a broader reality: Africa’s economic growth is increasingly being shaped by a few dominant regional powers.Over the past six years, Africa’s top economies have undergone notable shifts driven by currency devaluations, inflation, and commodity cycles.While many African countries continue to struggle with debt, commodity dependence, and limited industrialisation, larger economies are attracting a greater share of foreign investment, manufacturing capacity, and trade flows.Analysts say the growing influence of these five economies could help drive continental growth and integration, but may also widen development gaps if smaller economies fail to industrialise and diversify at a similar pace.<h3>New economic challengers are emerging</h3>While Africa’s current economic landscape is dominated by five major powers, the rankings could shift significantly over the next decade as new growth centres emerge across East and Central Africa.Countries such as Kenya, Ethiopia, Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are increasingly being viewed as future economic heavyweights due to their fast-growing populations, expanding infrastructure, mineral wealth, and rising industrial capacity.The shift reflects a broader transformation in Africa’s economy, where future influence is expected to depend not only on oil exports, but also on manufacturing, technology, logistics, and critical minerals linked to the global energy transition.Analysts say this means Africa’s economic rankings may look very different over the next 10 to 20 years as emerging economies continue to expand their regional influence and attract investment.

Meet the 5 economic superpowers projected to drive 50% of Africa's $3.6 trillion economy in 2026

He described it as "the biggest piece of business we've ever done but more importantly the one we've always wanted."Biggest year of AJ's career coming up, the comeback is on."This is a modal window.The video you are trying to watch cannot be viewed from your current country or locationTyson Fury grabbed the mic and bellowed a challenge for Anthony Joshua to fight him next!Fury called out Joshua after his points victory over Arslanbek Makhmudov at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium earlier this month and revealed that he had signed for the all-British mega-fight.Ring Magazine announced the fight was a "done deal" and would take place in "Q4, 2026" in a social media post on Monday.Hearn previously told Sky Sports that November was the date they were targeting for Joshua's fight with Fury after his July comeback bout.Play Video - Will we finally see AJ vs Fury? Hearn reveals latest on Joshua’s fight plansEddie Hearn revealed his plans for Anthony Joshua to fight Tyson Fury.<h3>A decade of missed chances - How Joshua and Fury never happened</h3>Joshua and Fury, two of the biggest names in British boxing, have circled one another for the best part of a decade. Fury first became a heavyweight world champion when he upset Wladimir Klitschko a decade ago. Joshua turned professional after winning Olympic gold at London 2012 and rocketed through the pro ranks.But by the time Joshua picked up his first world title belt in 2016, Fury had stepped away from the sport.Fury would eventually return and beat Deontay Wilder to become the WBC world champion. Joshua held the unified IBF, WBO and WBA championships and the two were close to fighting in an undisputed heavyweight championship fight.It was not to be, Fury boxed a third fight with Wilder instead and Joshua lost to Oleksandr Usyk. The Ukrainian also defeated Fury, who retired again at the start of last year.When Fury returned to beat Makhmudov in London earlier this month, Joshua was waiting for the all-clear to resume full training after sustaining injuries in a terrible accident in which two of his close friends and members of his team lost their lives. Joshua is now in camp working with his former rival Usyk, who has backed AJ to beat Fury.Play Video - 'AJ will beat Fury!' | Usyk on helping 'friend' Joshua in camp'AJ will beat Fury!' | Usyk on 'helping' Joshua in campWith one more hurdle to clear for Joshua, Kristian Prenga on July 25, the two rivals will finally box in the most richly anticipated heavyweight bout the UK will have ever seen.The exact date and location of the contest is yet to be confirmed but hopes will be high for another British stadium fight.<h3>Fury vs AJ... and a Dua Lipa concert?</h3>Sky Sports Boxing expert Andy Scott says:"If you go to each part of this deal, everyone is saying the same thing: that Anthony Joshua will fight Tyson Fury this year."I've spoken to Spencer Brown from Gold Star promotions - who represents Tyson Fury - and he says 'go ahead and confirm it'."Tyson Fury came back successfully from his own retirement - he confirmed after the Arslanbek Makhmudov fight that he had signed his part of the deal."There was a little bit of disappointment that Joshua didn't join him in the ring and confirm that fight on the night."According to Turki, Spencer Brown, and Eddie Hearn that fight is done."There are lots of things still to go through. There isn't a confirmed venue, and AJ still needs to go through his own comeback fight. Brown has confirmed that it's a two-fight deal."I don't know if they're pulling my leg here, but I'm hearing that Turki has stipulated that Dua Lipa needs to perform at the fight! If you're listening, Dua, clear your diary!"We aren't there yet - but we are very close now. AJ needs to come through his next fight, and then all roads lead to Joshua vs Fury next year."

Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury are set to meet in their long-awaited heavyweight mega-fight later this year.

Ghana Police have confirmed the arrest of the suspected gang leader linked to the robbery incident that led to the death of Berekum Chelsea footballer Dominic Frimpong last Sunday night.&nbsp;According to police sources, the suspect was apprehended following an intelligence-led operation. He reportedly sustained gunshot injuries during a shootout with officers and was subsequently rushed to a medical facility for treatment under tight security.Authorities say the suspect has since confessed to his involvement in the crime, providing crucial details to aid ongoing investigations. The tragic incident, which claimed the life of the Berekum Chelsea player, has sparked widespread concern within the football fraternity and the general public.The Ghana Police Service has assured that efforts are ongoing to track down and arrest other members of the robbery gang believed to be connected to the attack.Dominic Frimpong’s death sent shockwaves across the country, with tributes pouring in from clubs, players, and football administrators. Berekum Chelsea and the Ghana Football Association have both expressed deep sorrow over the loss, calling for swift justice.Police say further updates will be provided as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the fatal robbery attack.

Police arrest suspected gang leader in Dominic Frimpong killing

The Executive Council of the Ghana Football Association, working with all key stakeholders, has appointed Carlos Queiroz as head coach of the senior national team, the Black Stars.The former Real Madrid, Manchester United, Portugal, and Iran coach will lead Ghana’s campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.Queiroz boasts an extensive World Cup pedigree. He led South Africa to qualification for the 2002 FIFA World Cup, guided Portugal to the knockout phase in 2010, and took charge of Iran at both the 2014 and 2018 tournaments.He has also held coaching roles in Egypt, Oman, Japan, and Qatar, and is expected to bring his wealth of experience to bear during the World Cup.Coach Queiroz begins work immediately to prepare the Black Stars for the tournament, which kicks off on June 11, 2026.Ghana plays its first group match against Panama on June 17, 2026, in Toronto, Canada, before facing England and Croatia in the other Group matches.

Carlos Queiroz appointed Black Stars head coach for 2026 FIFA World Cup

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has parted company with Black Stars technical advisor Winfried Schafer as changes to the senior national team’s backroom staff continue, according to reports.Schafer was appointed in late 2024 to support Otto Addo following Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. However, his exit comes shortly after Addo’s dismissal, with the FA reshaping the technical team ahead of the World Cup.Further changes are expected, with the incoming head coach likely to be given the freedom to select his own backroom staff.Several names have been linked with the vacant coaching role, including Slaven Bilic, Carlos Queiroz and Fernando Santos.The new coach is expected to be named soon and will have limited time to prepare the team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.Ghana have been drawn against Panama, England and Croatia, with their campaign set to begin on June 17._Source: Ghana Soccer Net

GFA parts ways with Winfried Schafer as Black Stars backroom overhaul continues

LOS ANGELES —&nbsp;Manny Pacquiao&nbsp;let the setting speak before he said a word.Inside a boxing gym once tied to&nbsp;Floyd Mayweather Jr.&nbsp;in the heart of Hollywood, Pacquiao walked past a partially finished ring, pointing toward future placements for heavy bags and glancing at a larger-than-life image of his rival that will soon be taken down. The space, which is set to open this summer, already carries its new identity: Pacquiao Prime Boxing.The timing adds another layer.Pacquiao and Mayweather are&nbsp;set to meet again&nbsp;Sept. 19 at the Sphere in Las Vegas, a rematch more than a decade after their record-setting 2015 bout. In recent days, attention around the fight has centered on how it will be presented, with&nbsp;Mayweather describing it as an exhibition&nbsp;while Pacquiao points to the terms he agreed to.Representatives for Mayweather did not respond to requests for comment.“He knows what he signed,” Pacquiao said in an interview with The Associated Press this week, offering a steady, matter-of-fact view as he continues preparation for the bout. It comes down to principle for the Filipino boxer, who&nbsp;ended his own four-year retirement&nbsp;last year. The 49-year-old undefeated Mayweather&nbsp;returns after retiring&nbsp;nine years ago.“Dignity. Integrity,” Pacquiao, 47, said. “That’s what matters.”<h2>How Pacquiao’s team is responding to the contract dispute</h2>Behind the scenes, the focus has shifted from how the fight is being described to how it moves forward.Jas Mathur, CEO of Manny Pacquiao Promotions and a producer on the event, said the bout is anchored by multiple signed agreements, and that those terms remain clear. He said Mayweather was well aware“Not one, not two, but three different agreements,” Mathur said. “He signed all of them.”According to Mathur, those agreements outline a professional fight, not an exhibition, and include financial commitments already in motion. His comments come amid broader questions surrounding Mayweather’s plans, including previously reported bouts&nbsp;with former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson&nbsp;and against kickboxer Mike Zambidis — which could complicate the agreement.“He took an advance on his purse,” Mathur said. “Everything is black and white.”Mathur described the situation as a breach of contract, pointing to public comments that differ from the signed terms. He added that the matter is now being handled through legal channels as both sides work toward a resolution.“There are consequences that come with that,” Mathur said.Pacquiao’s focus remains steady. But for him, the situation comes down to clarity and commitment.“What we signed is a real fight,” he said. “I know that he knows what he signed. … We signed both, and I hope he honors it.”<h2>Pacquiao takes a jab at Mayweather with legacy in mind</h2>When asked what it would signal if the bout does not move forward as planned, Mathur did not hesitate.“He’s a chicken,” he said.Standing beside him, Pacquiao responded in his own way, letting out a brief “bawk, bawk, bawk” while flapping his arms, drawing laughter from both.Beyond the immediate stakes of the fight, Pacquiao also addressed the broader conversation surrounding legacy, including how greatness is defined in boxing. It’s a discussion that has long included both him and Mayweather.“I don’t even claim myself as the greatest,” said Pacquiao, who noted he’s the only fighter to win titles across four decades. “I let the people say who is the greatest.”<h2>Why take over Mayweather’s gym, and why now?</h2>Taking over a space once associated with Mayweather, especially in the lead-up to a high-profile rematch, carries a natural layer of symbolism. But Pacquiao and his team framed the decision through a different lens.While standing in front of Mayweather’s image — one that will soon be replaced — Pacquiao described a new direction for the space as one centered on performance rather than accessibility.The facility will operate as a private training center for professional fighters, athletes and select guests. There are plans to expand the model across major markets.Mathur pointed to location and visibility as key drivers behind the decision, noting the volume of daily traffic through the Hollywood corridor. At the same time, he suggested the opportunity reflects a broader shift in approach tied to the previous business connected to Mayweather’s brand.“There was a chance to build something much bigger,” Mathur said. “We’re looking at this differently.”Pacquiao said he wants to create opportunities for the next generation of fighters while expanding his footprint in the sport.“This is our passion,” he said. “To build more boxing gyms and help develop fighters.”<h2>How Pacquiao is building beyond the ring</h2>Beyond the fight, Pacquiao and his team are building with a broader vision in mind.From fighter development under Manny Pacquiao Promotions to new training hubs through the Hollywood gym, the focus extends well past the ring.Mathur, who partners with Pacquiao across multiple ventures, described a strategy centered on long-term growth, including efforts to bring Pacquiao’s established business footprint from Asia into the United States and beyond.“Manny is actively involved,” Mathur said. “This is about building something bigger.”That vision also includes ventures in financial technology, highlighted by Manny Pay — a digital wallet platform the team is working to expand internationally — along with media and consumer products tied to Pacquiao’s global reach.In a space being rebuilt for what comes next, Pacquiao is moving forward with focus. He said the balance between business and boxing remains clear.“Both,” he said, when asked what drives him now. “We’re focused on this fight, and building our own businesses.”

Manny Paquiao takes over Floyd Mayweather’s old gym

President John Dramani Mahama has praised NASA astronaut Christina Koch for her historic role in the Artemis II mission, highlighting her past as an exchange student at the University of Ghana.He said Koch’s journey is an inspiration to young Ghanaians.The Artemis II mission has four astronauts—Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, Christina Koch, and Jeremy Hansen—with Koch set to become the first woman to travel that far from Earth.<img src="https://aukisscontent.s3.amazonaws.com/a1d42a83cIMG_3323.png">In a Facebook post on Thursday, April 9, 2026, President Mahama described her journey from an exchange student in Ghana to a member of the Artemis II crew as a source of national pride.“I join the University of Ghana and the entire nation in celebrating NASA Astronaut Christina Koch on her historic membership of the Artemis II mission,” he wrote.Madam Koch, the only woman on the mission, studied at the University of Ghana during the 1999/2000 academic year, where she immersed herself in Ghanaian culture and academic life.“Her time at Legon was not just a passing visit; she truly immersed herself in our culture and heritage… she built a foundation of global citizenship right here in Accra,” he said.President Mahama also highlighted Koch’s gesture of carrying the Ghanaian flag into space as a moment of national significance.<img src="https://aukisscontent.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/aea497b19IMG_3324.png">“Her gesture of hoisting the Ghanaian flag in outer space was a deeply touching moment for every Ghanaian,” he said.“Christina’s journey from the classrooms of the University of Ghana to the frontiers of space exploration serves as a powerful inspiration to every young Ghanaian.”The President wished Koch and her fellow crew members a safe return, expressing hope that their achievement would inspire future generations._Source: Citi Newsroom

‘Ghana is proud of you’ – Mahama celebrates Astronaut Christina Koch

The&nbsp;Artemis II&nbsp;crew are now closer to the moon than the Earth, Nasa has said, as the four astronauts completed the third day of their flight to the moon.“We can see the moon out of the docking hatch right now. It’s a beautiful sight,” said an unnamed member of the crew, which Nasa shared in a&nbsp;post on X&nbsp;on Saturday morning.By 11am, the Orion spacecraft had travelled more than 152,000 miles (245,000km) away from Earth since its launch on Wednesday.Nasa released the crew’s first downlinked images on Friday, one and a half days into the first astronaut moonshot in more than half a century.<img src="https://aukisscontent.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/eee4f4bf23807.avif">The first photo taken by Commander Reid Wiseman showed a curved slice of Earth in one of the capsule’s windows. The second showed the entire globe with the oceans topped by swirling white tendrils of clouds. A green aurora even glows, according to Nasa.“It’s great to think that, with the exception of our four friends, all of us are represented in this image,” said Nasa’s Lakiesha Hawkins, an exploration systems leader. She added the mission was going well.The space agency also shared&nbsp;the menu for the trip, which includes tortillas, vegetable quiche, mango salad and barbecued beef brisket. As there is no refrigeration onboard, all meals are carefully selected to remain safe, shelf-stable and easy to prepare.Wiseman and his crew should reach their destination on Monday.<img src="https://aukisscontent.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/8994c985d4000.avif">The three Americans and one Canadian will swing around the moon in their Orion capsule, hang a U-turn and then head straight back home without stopping. They fired Orion’s main engine on Thursday night, which set them on their course.After mission control shifted the position of their capsule, the entire Earth – complete with northern lights – filled their windows.“It was the most spectacular moment, and it paused all four of us in our tracks,” Wiseman said in a TV interview.They are the first lunar travellers since Apollo 17 in 1972.Orion will travel about 4,000 miles (6,400km) beyond the moon before turning back, providing unprecedented and illuminated views of the lunar far side.If all proceeds smoothly, the astronauts will set a record by venturing further from Earth than any human before – more than 250,000 miles.The mission is part of a longer-term plan to repeatedly return to the moon, with the aim of establishing a permanent base that will offer a platform for further exploration.On Thursday, after what Nasa described as a “flawless” engine firing that lasted just under six minutes, the astronauts said they had been glued to the windows of the capsule as they left Earth.The Artemis astronaut Christina Koch said: “There’s nothing that prepares you for the breathtaking aspect of seeing your home planet both lit up bright as day, and also the moon glow on it at night with the beautiful beam of the sunset.”Now that the astronauts are moon-bound, there is no turning back: they are on a “free return” trajectory, which uses the moon’s gravity to slingshot around it before heading back towards Earth.In the event something goes wrong, the astronauts are equipped with suits that also serve as “survival systems”. This means that in the unlikely case of a cabin depressurisation or leak, they will maintain oxygen, temperature controls and the correct pressure for up to six days.They are expected to spend 30 minutes a day working out on the spacecraft’s flywheel exercise device, in order to minimise the muscle and bone loss that happens in the absence of Earth’s gravity.The mission marks a series of historic accomplishments, including sending the first person of colour, the first woman and the first non-American on a lunar mission. It is also the inaugural crewed flight of SLS, Nasa’s lunar rocket.After years of delays and massive cost overruns, it was meant to take off in February but was again delayed by repeated setbacks, with the rocket needing to be rolled back to its hangar for repairs.The current era of US lunar investment has frequently been portrayed as an effort to compete with China, which aims to land humans on the moon by 2030.During a post-launch briefing, Jared Isaacman, the Nasa administrator, said competition was “a great way to mobilise the resources of a nation”. He added: “Competition can be a good thing – and we certainly have competition now.”The Artemis programme has come under pressure from Donald Trump, who is hoping US boots will hit the lunar surface before his second term ends in January 2029. But the projected date of 2028 for a landing has raised eyebrows among some experts, in part because Washington is relying heavily on the private sector’s technological headway.After blasting off from the Kennedy&nbsp;Space&nbsp;Center in Florida on Wednesday, the astronauts sounded the alarm over a slight glitch: a toilet had begun malfunctioning as the crew reached orbit.With help from mission control, Koch was guided through some plumbing tricks until she finally got it going, but not before having to resort to using contingency urine storage bags.<img src="https://aukisscontent.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/0da4c388e3941.avif">Koch later said she was proud to call herself “the space plumber”, noting that it had just been an issue of the equipment needing to warm up.“I like to say that it is probably the most important piece of equipment onboard,” she added. “So we were all breathing a sigh of relief when it turned out to be just fine.”After the crew was asked about the deep divisions at home and what message they had for Americans, the astronaut Victor Glover replied by pointing to their singular vantage point and the view it had afforded them of Earth.“You look amazing. You look beautiful. From up here, you also look like one thing,” he said. “We’re all one people.”_Source: The Guardian

Artemis II astronauts now closer to the moon than the Earth

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) this week advanced a structured program of cooperation with Venezuela during a high-level working visit aimed at aligning both regions on hydrocarbon development, trade expansion and capacity building.The visit opened with meetings with the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela’s Vice Minister for Africa, Yuri Pimentel, where discussions focused on formalizing stronger South–South collaboration across upstream investment, gas monetization and downstream industrial development. As major hydrocarbon regions navigating similar developmental pressures, both sides emphasized a shared priority: using oil and gas resources to confront energy poverty and accelerate industrialization.Rather than treating hydrocarbons as transitional resources, discussions framed them as essential economic drivers. Both parties emphasized that oil, along with the development of natural gas and petrochemicals, represents the next phase of value creation – critical for supporting electrification, powering domestic industries and enabling broader economic development.The Chamber encouraged greater participation of African energy companies in Venezuela’s upstream and downstream sectors, while supporting Venezuelan engagement across African markets. The objective is not transactional engagement, but longer-term institutional alignment that strengthens intra-Global South investment flows.Another key outcome of the visit was the advancement of structured human capital partnerships. During meetings with Universidad Venezolana de los Hidrocarburos, discussions moved beyond general cooperation and toward concrete training pathways for African professionals. The parties committed to organizing training programs for Africans and executives in oil and gas, supported by ongoing discussions with stakeholders in Namibia, Equatorial Guinea, Nigeria, Zimbabwe and Senegal. Programs under discussion include technical training in both onshore and offshore hydrocarbon operations, alongside executive-level capacity building aimed at strengthening operational and regulatory expertise across African energy markets.Venezuela’s decades of experience in complex onshore heavy-oil production and offshore development present relevant case studies for African producers expanding their own resource bases. The Chamber committed to facilitating frameworks that support long-term training exchanges and institutional collaboration. By prioritizing technical depth and executive-level capacity building, the partnership aims to ensure that resource development is matched by domestic expertise – reinforcing local content objectives across African energy markets.“This working visit demonstrates that Africa and Venezuela are aligned not only in resources, but in vision,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. “Energy poverty remains one of the greatest barriers to economic growth across the Global South. Our focus is practical: strengthen cooperation, expand gas and petrochemical value chains and invest in the skills required to develop our resources responsibly and competitively.”As Africa scales upstream production and accelerates gas commercialization, partnerships grounded in technical exchange and industrial expansion are becoming increasingly strategic. The working visit signals a shift toward structured South–South energy alignment – one that links resource development, industrial policy and human capital under a unified development framework.

Africa, Venezuela Move to Formalize Global South Energy Cooperation

Paris&nbsp;—&nbsp;French police raided the Paris offices of Elon Musk’s X Tuesday and summoned the tech billionaire for questioning as part of a&nbsp;widening probe into the social media company and its&nbsp;AI chatbot Grok.The search was linked to an investigation France opened in January 2025, the prosecutor’s office said Tuesday, adding that its cybercrime unit conducted the raid with help from Europol.Both X chairman Musk and former X chief executive Linda Yaccarino have been summoned to appear at hearings in April, while X employees will be questioned as witnesses, according to the Paris prosecutor.Prosecutor Laure Beccuau said the investigation, which initially focused on suspected abuse of algorithms, had been broadened to include Grok’s “sexual deepfakes” and the circulation of “Holocaust denial content.”“The allegations underlying today’s raid are baseless and X categorically denies any wrongdoing,”&nbsp;X’s Global Government Affairs Team&nbsp;posted in a statement on the social platform Tuesday afternoon, adding that it is “committed to defending its fundamental rights and the rights of its users.”The company also said it is “disappointed by this development” and called the raid “an abusive act of law enforcement theater.”Musk also called it a “political attack” in&nbsp;a post on X.X did not respond to CNN’s earlier request for comment. The company has previously denied any wrongdoing and in July called the French investigation “politically motivated” and an attack on free speech.Last week the European Commission launched a probe into Grok following criticism of its ability to produce sexually explicit images. Scrutiny of that function came to a head late&nbsp;last year, when it emerged the chatbot had produced a flood of digitally undressed images – including of women and children – at the behest of users.Prosecutors in the French capital said they would examine a raft of potential crimes, including complicity in the possession and dissemination of child pornographic images and the breach of a person’s image rights with sexually explicit deepfakes.<h2>‘Dangerous consequences’</h2>Policymakers around the world have struggled to keep pace with rapidly evolving artificial intelligence technologies and a gulf has emerged between Europe and the US on the regulation of big tech and free speech.In mid-January X announced&nbsp;new restrictions&nbsp;on Grok image generation, saying the chatbot could no longer undress images of real people. But as of January 20, it could still be used to generate sexualized images of individuals, according to the European non-profit, AI Forensics.<img src="https://aukisscontent.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/3644f186agettyimages-2259715182.jpg.jpg">Internet safety campaigners are demanding more safeguards for marginalized people online, warning of long-term mental health and wellbeing impacts on survivors.“The disturbing rise in AI intimate image abuse, facilitated by platforms such as Grok, is not just a digital threat – it has dangerous consequences women and girls,” said Emma Pickering at UK non-profit Refuge.“Generative AI has made it easier than ever for perpetrators to create fake images at the expense of women’s safety,” she added&nbsp;in a statement&nbsp;last month.Earlier on Tuesday, the UK’s information regulator opened&nbsp;an investigation into Grok and its potential to produce harmful sexualized images and video content.Indonesian and Malaysian authorities blocked Grok in late January but lifted the ban days later, citing measures taken by X to prevent the misuse of the chatbot._Source: CNN

French offices of Elon Musk’s X platform raided by Paris cybercrime unit

Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has sparked widespread conversation after clarifying a key detail about the country’s new travel policy for Africans, emphasising that “free visa” does not mean “visa-free” entry.His comments came during a public address, just as discussions around the policy gained traction online. Many had initially interpreted the announcement as a move toward completely open-border access across the continent, prompting excitement particularly among young Ghanaians and creatives.Providing clarity, Ablakwa explained that while Ghana is waiving visa fees for African travellers, visitors will still be required to apply through an electronic visa (e-visa) system before entry. This shifts the policy from a fully open-border approach to a more structured system that maintains security checks and regulated access.Despite the distinction, the initiative is still being widely viewed as a significant step toward Pan-African integration. Stakeholders in the entertainment and tourism sectors have already highlighted their potential to boost cross-border collaborations, festivals and cultural exchange.For Ghana’s creative industry, the policy could prove transformative. More accessible and affordable travel across Africa opens new opportunities for artistes, DJs and creatives to connect, perform and collaborate without the usual financial constraints tied to visa costs.As the conversation continues to trend, Ablakwa’s clarification has not only corrected public perception but also reinforced optimism about the future of Africa’s creative economy where mobility, culture and music increasingly intersect.

Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa Clarifies Ghana’s Free Visa Policy

By Stanley Senya&nbsp;Accra, April 10, GNA – The Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL) has dismissed claims suggesting that Terminal 2 at the Accra International Airport is obsolete and should not be refurbished.The Company described the assertions as false, misleading, and misconceived, clarifying that the decisions regarding Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 were based on comprehensive technical and strategic planning.&nbsp;In a statement issued in Accra, GACL explained that the construction of Terminal 3 was not due to Terminal 2 being obsolete but was informed by a terminal planning study conducted in 2013.It said at the time, Terminal 2 was the sole facility handling international operations, and undertaking major reconstruction works would have disrupted airport operations significantly.&nbsp;The Company said such disruption would have negatively affected passenger experience, potentially led to a downgrade of the airport, and caused severe revenue losses.GACL said the decision to construct Terminal 3 as a new facility was to avoid interference with ongoing operations while expanding capacity.&nbsp;It noted that the 2013 study also recommended the development of a connecting concourse between Terminals 2 and 3 to enhance operational efficiency.This position was further reinforced by the National Airport Systems Plan prepared by Dorsch in 2014, commissioned by the Ministry of Transport and supported by the World Bank,” it added.&nbsp;It said the report anticipated that Terminal 2 would be refurbished and integrated with Terminal 3, contradicting claims that it was marked for demolition.&nbsp;The statement said Terminal 2 had undergone continuous upgrades, including the remodeling of parts of the arrivals hall in 2013 and the construction of an extension.&nbsp;The extension currently houses key State institutions such as the Ghana Immigration Service, National Security, the Narcotics Control Commission, and the Bureau of National Intelligence.&nbsp;It said these investments demonstrated the continued functional relevance of Terminal 2 rather than abandonment.&nbsp;The statement explained that following the completion of Terminal 3, international operations would be moved to the new facility, while domestic operations relocated from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2.&nbsp;GACL said expanding international operations through Terminal 2 would complement Terminal 3 and enhance revenue generation.&nbsp;It said international traffic yields higher revenue and the strategy would strengthen Ghana’s ambition to become a competitive regional aviation hub.&nbsp;The Company addressing legal concerns, affirmed that all processes related to Terminal 2 since 2013 had been complied fully with the Public Financial Management Act 2016 and the Public Procurement Act 2003.&nbsp;It emphasised that due process had been followed at all stages of procurement and project execution.&nbsp;The Company rejected claims that Terminal 2 lacked modern aviation infrastructure, adding that it was already equipped with CCTV surveillance, baggage handling systems, and biometric processing capabilities.<img src="https://aukisscontent.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/f294c5af5IMG_3353.jpeg">It said ongoing works would introduce advanced technologies, including 3D screening scanners and improved passenger facilitation systems aligned with global standards.&nbsp;GACL reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability, noting that it would respond to public inquiries in line with the Right to Information Act.&nbsp;The Company said the repurposing of Terminal 2 was a strategic, cost-effective decision aimed at maximising existing infrastructure, supporting growing passenger traffic, and ensuring efficient airport operations without unnecessary capital expenditure.&nbsp;GNA&nbsp;_Edited by Linda Asante AgyeiProvided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (<a href="http://syndigate.info/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Syndigate.info</a>).

GACL refutes claims on Terminal 2 project, affirms compliance and strategic planning

The Federal Government has directed the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to withdraw and deactivate passports belonging to individuals who have officially renounced their Nigerian citizenship.The directive was issued by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who stated that the move applies strictly to persons whose renunciation had been formally approved by the President.“The Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has directed the Nigeria Immigration Service to immediately withdraw and deactivate passports of Nigerians who have renounced their citizenship but still retain the documents.“This directive applies strictly to individuals whose renunciation requests have been formally approved by the President.“The Minister emphasized that the Ministry of Interior, entrusted with safeguarding the integrity of citizenship, derives its authority from the provisions of Section 29, subsections (1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which state:Any citizen of Nigeria of full age who wishes to renounce his Nigerian citizenship shall make a declaration in the prescribed manner for the renunciation.“The President shall cause the declaration made under subsection (1) of this section to be registered and upon such registration, the person who made the declaration shall cease to be a citizen of Nigeria.“He further noted that once a person ceases to be a citizen of Nigeria, such an individual is no longer entitled to possess any sovereign document of the country, including the Nigerian passport.“The Minister added that this directive aligns with ongoing passport and visa reforms initiated by the Ministry in recent years.“We will continue to strengthen systems that secure Nigeria’s borders, prevent identity fraud, preserve the sanctity of Nigerian citizenship, and facilitate legitimate travel while preventing unauthorized or ineligible access,” it concluded.

Nigerian govt moves to revoke passports of citizens who renounced nationality

The National Identification Authority (NIA) has highlighted key international benefits associated with the Ghana Card, including its role in easing travel arrangements for Ghanaians in the diaspora and strengthening identity verification processes abroad.Speaking on Breakfast Daily on Friday, April 10, Director of Corporate Affairs at the NIA, Williams Ampomah E. Darlas, pointed to ongoing engagements with foreign embassies aimed at deepening the card’s acceptance in global administrative systems.He explained that discussions with diplomatic missions have been centred on encouraging the use of the Ghana Card in visa application processes, stressing that international visa regimes remain the preserve of sovereign states.“We are still having conversations with embassies. These are states on their own, so you cannot force them unless through civil engagement. We are doing that and exploring the possibility of embassies requesting the Ghana Card when you apply for a visa. So far, it has been positive, and we are hopeful we can strike that deal,” he stated.Mr Darlas further noted that Ghanaians in the diaspora who hold the Ghana Card already benefit from simplified travel arrangements when returning home, particularly from countries such as Canada.“For those in the diaspora, if you are a Ghanaian and you have a Ghana Card and you want to travel from Canada to Ghana, you do not need to acquire a Ghanaian visa. With just the Ghana Card, you get your ticket and fly to Ghana,” he explained.He added that the initiative forms part of broader efforts to position the Ghana Card as a globally recognised identity document that supports mobility and administrative efficiency for citizens abroad._Source: Citinews

Ghana Card holders in Canada can travel home without visa – NIA

The Government of Ghana has announced the successful completion of its Extended Credit Facility (ECF) bailout programme with the International Monetary Fund, marking what it described as the end of the country’s financial bailout relationship with the global lender.In a statement issued on Friday, May 15, 2026, Presidential Spokesperson and Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, said the achievement represents the restoration of macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability ahead of schedule.<img src="https://aukisscontent.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/7444c499cIMG_3814.jpeg">According to the statement, the government of John Dramani Mahama took decisive steps in 2025 to restore the IMF-supported programme after it was derailed at the end of 2024.The statement said the government implemented major fiscal reforms, expenditure cuts and structural measures that helped stabilise the economy.It noted that inflation has reduced significantly, the Ghana cedi has strengthened, public debt levels have declined sharply, and economic growth has rebounded strongly.Government also announced that Ghana’s sovereign credit ratings have improved from restricted default status to a “B” rating with a positive outlook, representing five levels of upgrades.According to the statement, the country’s gross international reserves reached about US$14.5 billion by February 2026, providing nearly six months of import cover.The government said the reserve growth gives Ghana enough capacity to withstand external economic shocks and operate without depending on bailout financing.Following the completion of the ECF programme, Ghana will now engage the IMF through a Policy Coordination Instrument (PCI), which the government described as a non-financing technical assistance arrangement.The PCI, according to the statement, will support Ghana’s economic reform agenda, strengthen investor confidence and help attract funding from private investors and development partners without providing direct bailout funds.Government said the arrangement would also support efforts to achieve an investment-grade credit rating, which could lower borrowing costs, attract long-term investments and increase financing opportunities for infrastructure and private sector development.The statement added that the Mahama administration remains committed to prudent economic management, fiscal discipline and creating a favourable environment for both local and foreign investment.Government expressed gratitude to Ghanaians for their sacrifices and resilience during the implementation of the IMF programme, and also thanked bilateral creditors, investors and the Official Creditor Committee for their support.By Ashiadey Dotse_Source: Ghana Broadcast Company

Ghana exits IMF bailout programme

<ul><li>China is expanding direct shipping routes to Africa to improve trade efficiency and reduce logistics costs across key corridors.</li><li>The move comes ahead of a planned zero-tariff policy for 53 African countries set to take effect in 2026.</li><li>Major ports, including Qingdao, Yantai, and Tianjin, are reporting stronger export growth and faster transit times.</li><li>The developments signal deeper trade integration between China and Africa, particularly in the industrial and technology sectors.</li></ul>The development, reported by&nbsp;Global Times,&nbsp;comes as Beijing prepares to introduce zero-tariff access for 53 African countries with which it has diplomatic relations, effective 1 May 2026. The policy is positioned as part of a broader effort to deepen trade integration and improve market accessibility between China and African economies.Several major Chinese ports have begun rolling out regular direct services to African destinations, cutting transit times and easing long-standing supply chain constraints. Authorities say the changes are aimed at improving efficiency for exporters and importers dealing in industrial goods, raw materials and manufactured products.In eastern China, Qingdao recorded exports to Africa exceeding $6.37 billion in the first quarter of 2026, up more than 26% year-on-year. The port has seen particularly strong demand for machinery, electronics, and high-tech products, reflecting Africa’s growing import needs for industrial and technological goods.Elsewhere, Yantai has expanded its network with new routes to both North and Southern Africa. The port reported a cargo surge of over 30% in the first quarter, with volumes surpassing 2 million tonnes for the first time, indicating rising utilisation of the new corridors.In northern China, Tianjin has launched a direct container service to South Africa, reducing transit time by roughly 10 days and bringing the average shipping duration to about 40 days. The route is expected to lower logistics costs and improve predictability for businesses operating across the China-Africa trade corridor.The expansion of shipping infrastructure aligns with Beijing’s wider trade strategy, which combines improved logistics connectivity with tariff liberalisation. Officials have framed the upcoming zero-tariff regime as a continuation of earlier policies granting full exemptions to least-developed countries, many of which are in Africa.Analysts say the combined effect of faster shipping routes and reduced tariff barriers could further accelerate trade volumes, particularly in sectors such as manufacturing inputs, consumer goods and infrastructure-related equipment, where China-Africa exchange has been expanding steadily in recent years._Source: Business Insider Africa

China discovers faster shipping routes to Africa as $6.3bn trade surge signals new economic shift

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump were rushed out of the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner by Secret Service agents on Saturday night after a loud, unidentified noise.Other Trump administration officials attending the dinner were also evacuated after a loud commotion and noise near the hotel ballroom where the dinner was being held.Many of the 2,600 attendees took cover while waiters fled to the front of the dining hall.

Trump evacuated after security incident at White House correspondents dinner

SAFTA-nominated presenter and media personality Zanele Potelwa is officially returning as host of the upcoming 12th season of the popular reality series Tropika Island Of Treasure.This announcement comes at a pinnacle moment for the franchise, which was recently nominated in two categories at the 2026 South African Film and Television Awards (SAFTAs).&nbsp;The previous season, Tropika Island of Treasure: Zanzibar, scored a nod in the Best Competition Reality Show category while Zanele Potelwa herself was honoured with a nomination for Best TV Presenter, a testament to her infectious energy, professionalism, and the seamless way she navigates the high-stakes drama of the island.The 12th season promises fresh twists, high-stakes challenges, breathtaking locations and the trademark adventure that has made the show a fan favourite since it made its debut in 2008.“Being back as host for Tropika Island Of Treasure is a dream come true. I am beside myself that I get to come back and host another season. I can tell you, without a shadow of a doubt, that this is going to be the biggest season yet,” Zanele Potelwa says. “I don’t think anyone is ready for the surprises, the celebrity contestants, which island we might be going to and everything else we have done behind the scenes to make this season special. After being nominated for a SAFTA for the previous season, this announcement is a beautiful way to celebrate, and I cannot wait to be on that island.”“We are incredibly excited to have Zanele return as host for the 12th season of Tropika Island Of Treasure. She brings authenticity, relatability and a vibrant energy that truly connects with viewers,” says Sveti Kovatcheva, Brand Manager: Dairy Fruit Mix at Clover. “We are incredibly proud of her well-deserved SAFTA nomination for Best TV Presenter. It’s a proud moment for the entire Tropika family and reflects the passion, creativity, and excellence that goes into every season. Zanele truly embodies the smoooth, feel-good spirit of Tropika, and we can’t wait for audiences to see her shine again.”While Zanele’s return sets the stage for another blockbuster season, the mystery surrounding who will be joining her on the sand is about to be revealed. Tropika has confirmed that the star-studded cast of celebrity contestants for Season 12 will be officially announced later this week.Auditions Open SoonGot what it takes to win a smoooth shared R1 million grand prize and a R10,000 voucher from Pep? Enter to take part in the upcoming season of Tropika Island Of Treasure by uploading your audition tape to either TikTok, Facebook, X or Instagram, tagging @MyTropika and using the hashtag #Tropika. Auditions open on 6 March and close on 5 May 2026.With the cast reveal just days away, the 12th season of Tropika Island Of Treasure is shaping up to be another smoooth adventure. Expect bigger challenges, bold personalities and the kind of island drama that keeps viewers glued to their screens, with Zanele back at the centre of the action.

SAFTA-Nominated Zanele Potelwa Returns To Host The Highly Anticipated 12th Season Of Tropika Island Of Treasure

Buzzing music, entertainment, and lifestyle brand Revolve Plus has announced that distinguished Ghanaian presenter, TV show host, and voice-over artist Caroline Sampson has collaborated with them to co-produce and host ‘Clear Cut, ' a podcast coming to the channel soon.Caroline has 20+ years of experience in media and a deep understanding of how the industry works. Over the years, she has built a stellar reputation and relevant networks with stakeholders in the industry.&nbsp;Speaking on this strategic move, Mr George Mensah Britton, CEO and visionary leader of Revolve Plus, expressed excitement and remarked"Caroline Sampson is a multi-award-winning, familiar face in the industry with a wealth of experience, and she brings to the team a fresh perspective that aligns with the brand."&nbsp;Caroline Sampson co-owns and will co-produce and host the ‘Clear Cut’ Podcast, with its first episode airing soon on Revolve Plus. The show will have in-depth conversations about concerns and issues in entertainment and lifestyle around the world from the perspective of policy makers, event organisers, artists, and consumers.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://youtube.com/shorts/1Z2oyjbDhZ4?si=vDxpJV-cGoxWbBjy"></iframe>On her part, Caroline Sampson expressed excitement about the new show. According to her, the show revolves around credibility and a fresh perspective on the pillars of entertainment, education, and engagement.&nbsp;"We are clear and about to cut it. For this show, if it must be done, it must be done well," Caroline saidThis new partnership marks a defining step for Caroline and Revolve Plus. Audiences should expect the best from future episodes of the 'Clear Cut' podcast.

Caroline Sampson Hosts Clear Cut on Revolve Plus

After weeks of intense culinary battles and creative challenges, 14-year-old Arona Yster from Krugersdorp has officially been named the winner of the second season of The Taste Master Junior.In a high-stakes grand finale that required the top three contestants to prepare a full festive feast, Arona’s combination of traditional warmth and creativity won over the judges and earned her the title of champion.The finale challenged the top three contestants to prepare a celebratory festive feast, including a main dish, four sides, and a dessert. Arona rose to the occasion with a roasted leg of lamb and lemon herb chicken, accompanied by potato salad, mashed potatoes, beetroot roses, and a TODAY spinach and mushroom pie, finishing with Yum Yum Peanut Butter frosted cupcakes. Her menu showcased bold flavours and family-inspired warmth, earning praise for its creativity and presentation.As champion, Arona takes home R200,000 from Capitec, a Hisense double-door refrigerator from Clover and a year's supply of Clover products, a R30,000 voucher for Food Lover’s Market plus an additional R10,000 cash and a year’s supply of pastry from TODAY,a baking kit from Huletts worth R20,000, a year’s supply of Yum Yum products, and R40,000 worth of KitchenAid products.Runner-up Tyler Robinson wins a year’s supply of Clover and Yum Yum products plus R10,000 cash, while third-place Kodi Bertish takes home R5,000 cash. Additionally, each of the Top 12 contestants receives a Hisense air fryer courtesy of Clover."When my name was announced as the winner, I wasn't expecting it at all. I was totally surprised and super excited! The whole experience was awesome, and I learned so much. I'd do it all over again in a heartbeat,” Arona said shortly after her big win. “I've grown a ton, speaking in front of judges, guest judges, and other contestants has boosted my confidence in my skills and abilities like never before."Fritz Schoon, judge on The Taste Master Junior, says Arona delivered a strong and consistent performance throughout the competition. “Arona showed great commitment and focus in the kitchen, especially in the finale. She approached the challenge with confidence and handled a demanding menu well, which ultimately set her apart.”Zola Nene adds that Arona’s growth over the season was clear to see. “Throughout the competition, Arona demonstrated steady improvement and a willingness to learn. In the final challenge, she brought together flavour, structure, and presentation in a way that reflected how far she’s come during the season.”Looking ahead, Arona already has big plans. “I want to start creating food content and eventually build a confectionery business,” she says. “I've always dreamed of starting a YouTube channel and my own business, so with the prize money, I plan to save three-quarters for studying architecture later, and use the rest to buy a vlog camera. I'll also make the most of my Food Lover’s and Huletts vouchers to create fun food content on my channel!"The second season of The Taste Master Junior, brought to you by Clover, has once again showcased the incredible talent, passion, and creativity of South Africa’s young cooks, delivering inspiring moments and unforgettable dishes week after week.From technical challenges to heartfelt storytelling through food, the season celebrated not only culinary skill but confidence, growth, and the joy of cooking. Arona Yster’s win marks a fitting end to a standout season that has captured the hearts of viewers and cemented The Taste Master Junior as a platform where young talent truly shines.

14-Year-Old Arona Yster Crowned Champion of The Taste Master Junior Season 2 in Epic Festive Finale

Ava DuVernay and David Oyelowo are set to collaborate once more on the feature film Heist of Benin, marking their first director actor reunion since Selma.The project was unveiled Tuesday during Canal+’s presentation in Paris. Variety reports that the screenplay is written by Jesse Quiñones and that the film is positioned as “a thriller that intertwines art, love and restitution.” Oyelowo will star and produce under his Yoruba Saxon banner.The pairing has been years in the making. Oyelowo said the story finally aligned with what he and DuVernay had been seeking creatively.“Ava and I have been looking for the right story to tell together again. Heist of Benin is that story,” he said. “It’s thrilling and high-powered with deeply resonant themes that matter to us both.”DuVernay also reflected on the significance of returning to work with Oyelowo.“Reuniting with David in this way feels full circle.”The film has attracted strong backing from its partners. Studiocanal and Canal+ leadership emphasized DuVernay’s fit for the material and the relevance of the story’s themes.“We are delighted in reuniting this dynamic creative duo on Heist of Benin and cannot think of a better filmmaker than Ava to bring this captivating, timely, heist-thriller to life,” said Anna Marsh, CEO of Studiocanal and Canal+’s chief content officer and deputy CEO.Heist of Benin will also be produced by Steve Richards and Jake Katofsky of Endurance Media, alongside Lisa Bruce for Yoruba Saxon and Quiñones. Further details on casting and production have yet to be announced._Source: The Source

Ava DuVernay to Direct David Oyelowo Again in New Thriller Heist of Benin

DStv operator MultiChoice has lost 2.8 million subscribers since its height on 31 March 2023, declining from 17.3 million to 14.5 million, a reduction of over 16% in two years.MultiChoice’s new owner, French media conglomerate Groupe Canal+, recently published an investor presentation with charts illustrating MultiChoice’s decline in recent years.It showed that MultiChoice was not only declining in subscriber numbers but also in other key metrics, such as revenue and trading profit.MultiChoice’s decline has been evident in South Africa since 2016, when the company started losing its highest-value DStv Premium subscribers.That was the same year as Netflix’s global expansion. The company announced the global rollout of its services in January 2016 at CES.South Africa’s pay-TV giant was able to mask this decline through gains on its lower-tier packages and growth in the rest of Africa.When MultiChoice was spun out of Naspers in 2019, it started bundling Compact Plus subscribers in with DStv Premium, in a new “Premium market segment” category.This hid the decline of DStv Premium for a year before this new combined category also started recording lower numbers. In other words, by 2021, DStv Compact Plus was also in decline.MultiChoice also switched to reporting subscribers according to a 90-day active metric rather than the number of subscribers at 31 March and 30 September.Its year-end subscribers went into decline in 2022&nbsp;in South Africa, but the new 90-day active metric allowed MultiChoice to continue reporting subscriber growth in South Africa until its 2023 financial year.Subscriber growth in the rest of Africa also took a turn in 2023, with MultiChoice’s results across the group showing substantial subscriber declines in 2024 and 2025.These declines were evident in both the traditional year-end and 90-day active subscriber numbers reported by MultiChoice. <img src="https://mybroadband.co.za/news/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/MultiChoice-DStv-group-and-SA-subscribers-2012-2025.jpg"><img src="https://mybroadband.co.za/news/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/MultiChoice-DStv-90-day-active-subscriber-base-FY24-FY25-1200x519.jpg">In its last published financial results for the year ended 31 March 2025, before Canal+’s final takeover, MultiChoice blamed macroeconomic factors for its continued decline.“The past two financial years have been a period of significant financial disruption for economies, corporates and consumers across sub-Saharan Africa due to challenging macroeconomic factors,” it stated.“Combined with the impact of structural industry changes in video entertainment such as the rise of piracy, streaming services and social media, this has materially affected the overall performance of the MultiChoice Group.”Aside from losing 2.8 million traditional linear TV subscribers, MultiChoice said it had to absorb a R10.2 billion negative impact on its topline due to local currency depreciation against the US dollar.“Management acted decisively to ensure that the group could withstand these headwinds, focusing on key areas within its control,” it said.“This has meant maintaining a discipline of inflationary pricing, with price increases of ~5.7% in South Africa in FY25 (FY24: 5.6%) and an average of 31% in local currency in Rest of Africa (FY24: 27%).”MultiChoice said this enabled it to offset subscriber volume pressures and deliver 1% year-on-year organic revenue growth in the current financial year.“In addition, further efficiencies were implemented to manage costs and cash flows without unduly sacrificing the group’s customer value proposition,” it said.“In this regard, the group delivered R3.7 billion in cost savings, well ahead of management’s initial R2.0-billion target, and the revised R2.5 billion target set at its half-year results.”Despite these cost savings, MultiChoice reported that organic trading profit declined by 9% year-on-year across the group due to the increased operating costs in Showmax in its peak investment year.<img src="https://mybroadband.co.za/news/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/CanalPlus-MultiChoice-DStv-decline-FY22-FY25-1200x509.jpg">MultiChoice performance metrics in Canal+ investor presentation published on 21 November 2025In an investor presentation published on 21 November, Canal+ said that it has plans to return MultiChoice to growth through several key interventions.Canal+ said it would reinvest in subscriber acquisition to capture growth opportunity in the underpenetrated African pay-TV market.It will offset higher subscriber acquisition costs through synergies and a granular focus on optimal distribution.Canal+ said it would set ambitious growth targets and incentivise teams accordingly, applying a “no small market” philosophy for the continent.This means Canal+ will not view any market on the African continent as too small to invest in for future growth.Besides driving subscriber acquisition to increase revenue, Canal+ stated that it would develop and implement plans to generate meaningful incremental revenues and revenue synergies across the business.Additionally, Canal+ said it would enhance MultiChoice’s customer value proposition. It will strengthen the content line-up by sharing material across platforms and apply marketing best practices.Canal+ also said it would address the cost side of the business. It plans to reset the cost base for a sustainable and profitable pay-TV business, in contrast with past cost savings plans aimed solely at short-term profitability.It stated that it would deliver meaningful cost synergies, with an initial focus on content and technology costs, especially large cost items at a global scale.

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