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Category: Africa

  • AU Commission Chairperson meets UN Envoys on DR Congo, Great Lakes security

    AU Commission Chairperson meets UN Envoys on DR Congo, Great Lakes security

    ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (NPA) — Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has met with senior United Nations officials to discuss the security and humanitarian situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the wider Great Lakes region.

    The meeting brought together Youssouf, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Representative for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Head of the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO), James Swan, and the UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region, Huang Xia.

    According to a statement issued by the African Union on Tuesday, the discussions focused on ongoing developments in eastern DRC and broader regional efforts aimed at promoting peace, security, and stability.

    The officials also reviewed opportunities for deeper collaboration between the African Union and the United Nations in addressing the region’s security challenges and supporting long-term development initiatives.

    The African Union said the parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation between both organisations in pursuit of sustainable peace, stability, security, and economic development across the Great Lakes region.

    Eastern DRC has continued to face persistent security challenges driven by the activities of armed groups, resulting in humanitarian concerns and regional instability.

  • Museveni reflects on Uganda’s past struggles, calls for economic transformation on Heroes Day

    Museveni reflects on Uganda’s past struggles, calls for economic transformation on Heroes Day

    KAMPALA, Uganda (NPA) — Ugandan President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has reflected on the country’s turbulent past, highlighting the sacrifices made by thousands of Ugandans in the struggle for freedom and national reconstruction.

    In a message marking Uganda’s Heroes Day on Tuesday, Museveni recalled the dire state of the nation before his government came to power, describing a period marked by economic collapse, insecurity, poor governance, and the denial of democratic rights.

    The Ugandan leader said June 9 was chosen as Heroes Day to honour the hundreds of thousands of people who lost their lives during the country’s liberation struggle, particularly in the Luweero Triangle, one of the most affected regions during the conflict.

    According to him, the scale of the atrocities committed during the period was evident in the discovery of 32 communal graves after the war.

    “The 9th of June 1981 was chosen to represent the hundreds of thousands who were killed, especially in the Luweero Triangle. After the war, we collected skulls from 32 communal graves as a reminder of the atrocities our people endured,” Museveni said.

    Reflecting on the circumstances that led to the armed struggle, the president said Uganda faced a profound national crisis, with a collapsed economy, widespread insecurity, failing institutions, and nearly two decades without free and fair elections.

    He said the objectives of the liberation movement were to restore democracy, guarantee security, revive and diversify the economy, and rebuild the country.

    Museveni expressed appreciation to both civilian and military veterans who participated in the struggle, as well as the families of those who lost their lives in the quest for freedom.

    “I thank the civilian and armed veterans who joined us in this struggle and helped achieve these goals. I also salute the families of those heroes who are no longer with us,” he stated.

    The president said that while significant progress has been made, Uganda’s next major challenge is achieving economic transformation and ensuring that every household becomes part of the money economy.

    He urged citizens to remain committed to national development and the pursuit of shared prosperity.

  • EBOLA: AU–EU leaders strengthen cooperation on health, humanitarian response

    EBOLA: AU–EU leaders strengthen cooperation on health, humanitarian response

    ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (NPA) — The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, today received H.E. Hadja Lahbib, EU Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management, at AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa.

    The meeting underscored the enduring strength of the AU–EU strategic partnership, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to solidarity and a shared vision for peace, resilience, and sustainable development.

    Discussions focused on joint efforts to address health and humanitarian emergencies, including the ongoing Ebola outbreak, as well as broader peace and security challenges across the continent. The AU Chairperson emphasised the importance of strengthening Africa’s health security architecture, advancing health sovereignty, and enhancing continental capacities in vaccine production, preparedness, and response.

    He also highlighted the humanitarian implications of the situation in eastern DRC, stressing the need for ceasefire efforts, humanitarian access, and support for affected communities.

    Commissioner Lahbib reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to work closely with the AU and institutions such as the Africa CDC to bolster preparedness and support Africa‑led responses. She also underscored the importance of deepening cooperation on humanitarian diplomacy and international humanitarian law.

    The talks further touched on the impact of conflicts beyond Africa, particularly in the Middle East, and their implications for the continent. Both sides agreed to build on the outcomes of the AU–EU Summit in Luanda, anchoring their partnership in shared priorities for peace, stability, and sustainable development.

  • Mahama honours WWII heroes in Belarus, seeks stronger economic ties with Ghana

    Mahama honours WWII heroes in Belarus, seeks stronger economic ties with Ghana

    BREST, Belarus (NPA) — Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has laid a wreath at the Brest Hero Fortress Memorial Complex in Belarus, paying tribute to the soldiers and civilians who resisted the Nazi invasion of 1941 during World War II.

    Mahama visited the historic site during his official trip to Belarus and was accompanied by Ghana’s Ambassador to Russia, Dr Steem Jehu-Appiah, Presidential Adviser and Special Aide Joyce Bawah Mogtari, officials of the Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and representatives of Ghana’s mission in Moscow.

    Located near the Polish border, the Brest Hero Fortress is one of Belarus’ most significant World War II memorials and among the first locations attacked by Nazi Germany on June 22, 1941, following the invasion of the then Soviet Union.

    During a guided tour of the memorial complex, the Governor of Brest, Piotr Alexsandrovich, briefed the Ghanaian leader on the historical significance of the site.

    According to the governor, the fortress remains a sacred national monument and one of Belarus’ most visited landmarks, attracting more than 120,000 visitors in 2025 alone.

    Reflecting on the visit, Mahama described it as a privilege to witness firsthand the courage and resilience displayed by the people of Belarus during one of the darkest periods in modern history.

    The Ghanaian president noted that the spirit of sacrifice and determination demonstrated by the defenders of Brest had become a defining feature of Belarus’ modern development and industrial progress.

    Providing historical context, Mahama recounted how Soviet troops and their allies mounted a fierce resistance against invading Nazi forces despite severe shortages of ammunition, food and water.

    The fortress still preserves bomb-damaged barracks, gates and a church, alongside weapons, letters and personal belongings of the defenders, serving as a lasting symbol of resistance and sacrifice.

    Following the tour, Mahama attended a luncheon hosted in his honour, where he praised the hospitality extended to him and described it as a reflection of the growing friendship between Ghana and Belarus.

    “The heroism of the people of Brest is well documented in history,” Mahama said.

    “Brest has demonstrated that it is not only about history; it is about production, development, industrialisation and culture. It is about everything that makes human life better.”

    The president expressed optimism that the visit would strengthen bilateral cooperation between both countries, particularly in agriculture, mining and manufacturing.

    “I hope this visit will draw Ghana closer to Belarus, especially in the fields of agriculture, mining and manufacturing,” he said.

    Mahama also extended an invitation to Belarusian investors to explore opportunities in Ghana, expressing confidence that relations between the two nations would continue to grow.

    He reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to deepening economic partnerships and fostering long-term cooperation with Belarus across key sectors of mutual interest.

  • Tanzania’s Samia Suluhu lands in Moscow for high‑level talks

    Tanzania’s Samia Suluhu lands in Moscow for high‑level talks

    MOSCOW, Russia (NPA) — President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania has arrived in Moscow for a state visit at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

    Suluhu announced her arrival in a statement issued on Tuesday, describing the trip as part of her administration’s efforts to advance Tanzania’s national interests and strengthen international partnerships.

    “Thanks be to Almighty God for His grace and blessings in the ongoing work of serving our country and its people,” the Tanzanian leader said.

    “I have arrived in Moscow, Russian Federation, where I have begun a state visit at the invitation of His Excellency President Vladimir Putin.”

    Details of the President’s planned engagements were not immediately disclosed as of the time of filing this report.

    The visit comes amid growing cooperation between Tanzania and Russia, whose diplomatic relations date back to December 1961, shortly after Tanzania gained independence.

    Over the decades, the two countries have maintained diplomatic ties through their embassies in Dar es Salaam and Moscow, while cooperating in areas such as education, technical training, security, trade and energy.

    In recent years, both countries have intensified efforts to deepen bilateral relations through high-level engagements and expanded economic cooperation.

    Discussions between the two nations have increasingly focused on defence collaboration, trade expansion, energy development and proposals to conduct bilateral transactions in national currencies.

    Analysts view the growing partnership as part of Russia’s broader strategy to strengthen its presence in Africa, while Tanzania seeks to diversify its international partnerships and attract investment for national development.

    The two countries also maintain cooperation in multilateral organisations, including the United Nations, where they continue to engage on issues of mutual interest and global development.

  • Ghana, UK sign £215m growth partnership to boost investment, jobs

    Ghana, UK sign £215m growth partnership to boost investment, jobs

    LONDON, United Kingdom (NPA) — Ghana and the United Kingdom have signed a landmark Growth Partnership Agreement aimed at deepening economic cooperation, attracting investment and creating jobs over the next three years.

    Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama announced the agreement on Monday following the Ghana-UK Investment Summit in London.

    According to Mahama, the partnership will serve as a strategic roadmap for cooperation between 2026 and 2028, with investment deals worth up to £215 million expected to deliver significant benefits to Ghanaian businesses and citizens.

    “I am pleased to announce that today in London, we signed a landmark UK-Ghana Growth Partnership during the Ghana-UK Investment Summit as a roadmap for 2026–2028. It aims to deliver tangible benefits for Ghanaians and businesses operating in our country,” he said.

    The president said the agreement prioritises private-sector growth, infrastructure development and skills acquisition for young people to enhance their competitiveness in the global economy.

    A major highlight of the partnership is a £101 million UK-backed investment in the Takoradi Floating Dock Project, which is expected to establish the Gulf of Guinea’s first commercial-scale ship repair and dry-docking facility.

    Mahama said the project would create up to 430 direct jobs, with 30 per cent of the positions reserved for women, while strengthening Ghana’s position as a regional maritime hub.

    The agreement also includes significant investments in climate-resilient infrastructure and environmental sustainability.

    According to the president, an £85 million reforestation fund and an additional £9 million investment for forest restoration in the Oti Region will support environmental conservation efforts, create jobs and promote sustainable development.

    In the technology sector, a £6 million partnership has been earmarked to support the implementation of Ghana’s Artificial Intelligence Strategy and strengthen science.

  • Ghana warns citizens against travelling to South Africa over xenophobic attacks

    Ghana warns citizens against travelling to South Africa over xenophobic attacks

    ACCRA, Ghana (NPA) — The Government of Ghana has issued a formal travel advisory warning its citizens against non‑essential travel to South Africa following a surge in xenophobic attacks targeting Africans. The advisory, released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed “great concern” over violent assaults by anti‑immigrant vigilante groups that have led to injuries, looting, and the takeover of businesses owned by foreign nationals.

    According to the statement issued today, the Mahama Administration has taken diplomatic steps to address the crisis, including summoning the South African Acting High Commissioner in Accra, petitioning the African Union, and initiating the evacuation of Ghanaian nationals from affected areas.

    The government urged Ghanaians currently in South Africa to maintain close contact with the Ghana High Commission for consular assistance and assured that it is working with South African authorities to ensure their safety.

    The advisory also called on the South African government to provide adequate protection for Africans within its borders and to uphold law and order “in the spirit of genuine Pan‑Africanism and African integration.”

    Ghana reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of its citizens both at home and abroad.

    The recent xenophobic attacks have caused widespread destruction and tragic loss of life, leaving communities shattered and economies disrupted. Mobs identifying themselves as anti‑immigrant vigilantes have targeted foreign‑owned businesses, looted shops, and burned properties, forcing hundreds of families to flee for safety.

    Reports from humanitarian agencies indicate that dozens of people have been killed and many more injured, with victims including traders, workers, and students from across the continent.

    Governments across Africa, including Ghana and Nigeria, have condemned the assaults and called for urgent action to protect foreign nationals and restore peace.

  • Bahamas seeks deeper Africa-Caribbean trade ties at Afreximbank roadshow

    Bahamas seeks deeper Africa-Caribbean trade ties at Afreximbank roadshow

    NASSAU, Bahamas (NPA) — The Prime Minister of The Bahamas, Philip Davis, has highlighted the growing partnership between Africa and the Caribbean, describing it as a strategic alliance built on trade, investment, entrepreneurship and sustainable economic development.

    Davis made the remarks at the Afreximbank Bahamas Roadshow 2026, where he underscored the importance of strengthening economic ties between The Bahamas and African nations.

    According to the Prime Minister, the relationship has continued to gain momentum since the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between The Bahamas and the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) in 2023.

    He acknowledged the bank’s support for several development initiatives in the country, including infrastructure financing and a US$30 million facility provided through the Bahamas Development Bank to expand access to capital for small and medium-sized enterprises.

    Davis said the partnership is creating new opportunities for businesses, investors and entrepreneurs while supporting economic growth and job creation.

    The Prime Minister also highlighted plans for the proposed Afro-Caribbean Marketplace and Logistics Centre in Grand Bahama, describing it as a transformative project that could significantly enhance trade and investment flows between Africa and the Caribbean.

    According to him, the initiative is expected to serve as a commercial hub, facilitating stronger business linkages and opening new markets for goods and services across both regions.

    He noted that closer collaboration between Africa and the Caribbean would help unlock shared economic opportunities and strengthen cultural and historical ties between the two regions.

    The Afreximbank Bahamas Roadshow forms part of broader efforts by the bank to deepen its engagement across the Caribbean and advance the Global Africa agenda.

    Stakeholders at the event emphasised the importance of building stronger economic partnerships capable of driving sustainable development, expanding trade and fostering greater private sector participation.

    As Afreximbank continues to broaden its footprint in the Caribbean, the roadshow is expected to further strengthen cooperation between African and Caribbean economies while creating new pathways for investment and shared prosperity on both sides of the Atlantic.

  • Four health workers recover from Ebola in DR Congo, WHO confirms

    Four health workers recover from Ebola in DR Congo, WHO confirms

    BUNIA, DRC (NPA) — The World Health Organisation (African Region) has announced the recovery of four nurses who were being treated for Ebola disease caused by Bundibugyo virus in Bunia, the capital of Ituri Province. The health workers, who had been caring for patients earlier in May, were discharged on 31 May 2026 after successful treatment.

    This brings the total number of recoveries to five, following the earlier discharge of a laboratory worker on 28 May. WHO officials say more recoveries are expected as outbreak response intensifies and patients access care early.

    “This is a victory worth celebrating. It’s a strong message that it is possible to recover from Ebola when seeking care early in a dedicated health facility,” said Dr Dieudonne Mwamba Kazadi, Director-General of the National Institute of Public Health.

    To strengthen clinical care, WHO has handed over a refurbished Ebola Treatment Centre in Bunia, with an initial capacity of 24 beds, expandable to 60. An annex with 42 beds is also being prepared.

    As of 31 May, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has reported 210 confirmed cases, 17 deaths, and 349 suspected cases under investigation. Sixteen health workers have been infected during this outbreak.

    WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, visiting Bunia on 30 May, stressed that while there is currently no licensed vaccine or treatment for Bundibugyo virus, survival is possible with good medical care. He noted that several candidate treatments and vaccines are promising enough to warrant prioritisation for clinical trials, with WHO working closely with DR Congo and Uganda to facilitate evaluations.

    Since the outbreak was declared on 15 May, response measures have included laboratory testing, surveillance, infection prevention and control, community engagement, and resource mobilisation. WHO pledged that essential health services and humanitarian assistance will continue across Ituri and beyond, ensuring long-term benefits for affected communities.

  • Nigeria Police caution against reprisals over South Africa xenophobic violence

    Nigeria Police caution against reprisals over South Africa xenophobic violence

    ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has called for calm following reports of xenophobic attacks on Nigerian nationals in South Africa, warning against reprisals targeting South African citizens, businesses and interests in Nigeria.

    In a statement issued on Saturday by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Olaniyi, the police said security and intelligence assets had been deployed to assess the situation and determine any potential security implications for Nigeria.

    The NPF assured Nigerians and members of the South African community residing in the country that there was no cause for alarm, noting that the Federal Government was actively engaging relevant authorities in South Africa.

    According to the police, ongoing collaboration between both countries is aimed at addressing the situation peacefully and protecting the interests of Nigerians at home and abroad.

    While acknowledging public concerns over the reported attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, the Force cautioned citizens against taking the law into their own hands.

    It stressed that any reprisal attacks, violence or destruction of property directed at South African-owned businesses or individuals in Nigeria would be unlawful and counterproductive.

    The police also warned against the spread of unverified, inflammatory or inciting messages, particularly on social media, saying such actions could heighten tensions and undermine public safety.

    “The Force urges the public to refrain from spreading unverified, inflammatory, or inciting messages, especially on social media, and to report any credible information through established channels,” the statement said.

    The NPF reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, preserving public order and maintaining a peaceful environment for all residents.

    It further assured Nigerians that all necessary measures were being taken to ensure public safety and national security.

    The Force also appealed for cooperation from citizens and residents, urging them to remain law-abiding while authorities continue to monitor developments surrounding the reported incidents.