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Category: Africa

  • U.S. urges DRC, Rwanda to fully implement Peace Accord

    U.S. urges DRC, Rwanda to fully implement Peace Accord

    LONDON, United Kingdom (NPA) — The United States has welcomed the continued commitment of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda to resolving longstanding tensions through peaceful dialogue, urging both countries to fully implement the Washington Accords without delay.

    In a statement on Wednesday, U.S. Senior Advisor for Arab and African Affairs, Massad Boulos, called on all parties to maintain momentum in implementing the peace agreement, including Rwanda’s commitment to withdraw its forces from eastern DRC and the Congolese government’s pledge to neutralise the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR).

    Boulos also acknowledged the contributions of Qatar, the African Union and other international partners in supporting the peace process.

    “Sustained engagement, confidence-building measures and the faithful implementation of agreed commitments remain essential to securing lasting peace, stability and prosperity in the Great Lakes region,” he said.

    The statement followed the sixth meeting of the Joint Oversight Committee (JOC) on the Peace Agreement between the DRC and Rwanda, held in London on June 24.

    The meeting brought together representatives of the DRC, Rwanda, the United States, Qatar, Togo, acting as the African Union mediator, and the African Union Commission.

    The committee expressed concern over the renewed fighting in eastern DRC, the impact of drone strikes on civilians and the worsening humanitarian situation, including the ongoing Ebola outbreak.

    Participants agreed on the urgent need to strengthen the ceasefire and accelerate implementation of the peace agreement signed by both countries on June 27, 2025.

    During the meeting, the DRC updated members on efforts to neutralise the FDLR, while Rwanda provided details of the ongoing disengagement of its forces and the lifting of defensive measures.

    Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to fully implement the peace accord, de-escalate tensions—particularly around Minembwe—and use their influence to support peace on the ground.

    They also agreed to support the rapid deployment of the Expanded Joint Verification Mechanism Plus (EJVM+) to verify compliance with commitments under the Washington Accords.

    The two governments pledged to strengthen intelligence sharing through the Joint Security Coordination Mechanism, support ongoing peace negotiations between the DRC and AFC/M23 under the Doha process, and refrain from hostile rhetoric capable of undermining the implementation of the agreement.

    The DRC and Rwanda expressed appreciation to the United States, Qatar, Togo and the African Union Commission for their continued support to the peace process and thanked the United Kingdom for hosting the meeting.

    The next meeting of the Joint Security Coordination Mechanism is scheduled to take place within the next 15 days.

  • Ramaphosa salutes Bafana Bafana for reaching World Cup knockouts for first time

    Ramaphosa salutes Bafana Bafana for reaching World Cup knockouts for first time

    PRETORIA, South Africa (NPA) — South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has congratulated the national football team, Bafana Bafana, following their historic 1-0 victory over South Korea that secured the country’s first-ever qualification for the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup.

    In a statement on Thursday, Ramaphosa praised the team for its disciplined display and fighting spirit after the victory in Monterrey, Mexico.

    “Congratulations to Bafana Bafana on beating Korea 1-0 in Monterrey to make it to the knockout stages of a FIFA World Cup for the first time,” the President said.

    He commended head coach Hugo Broos and match-winner Thapelo Maseko for guiding South Africa into the Round of 32, where the team will face tournament co-hosts Canada.

    “Bafana Bafana displayed an inspired team performance of discipline in defence and precision in attack.

    “We remain united and hopeful under our banner that declares: ‘One Nation. One Dream. One Goal,” Ramaphosa added.

    South Africa’s qualification capped a remarkable turnaround after the team opened its campaign with a 2-0 defeat to Mexico and then earned a 1-1 draw against Czechia.

    The historic victory over South Korea secured four points and second place in Group A, earning Bafana Bafana a place in the knockout rounds for the first time.

    Under Broos, South Africa has earned widespread praise for its tactical discipline, resilient defending and determined performances throughout the tournament.

    The team will now take on Canada in the Round of 32 on June 28 as they seek to extend their historic run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

  • South Africa warns against violence ahead of anti-immigration marches

    South Africa warns against violence ahead of anti-immigration marches

    PRETORIA, South Africa (NPA) — The South African government has urged citizens planning to participate in demonstrations against illegal immigration later this month to conduct their protests peacefully and within the confines of the law.

    Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia made the appeal during a media briefing on Monday, outlining the government’s security preparations ahead of the planned nationwide marches.

    Cachalia said while citizens have a constitutional right to protest, authorities would not tolerate violence, intimidation, destruction of property or any actions capable of threatening public safety.

    “Our message is clear: everyone has the constitutional right to protest peacefully and within the confines of the law. However, criminality, intimidation, violence, destruction of property and any attempt to undermine public safety will not be tolerated,” he said.

    He warned that law enforcement agencies would deal decisively with anyone attempting to disrupt public order.

    According to the minister, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has heightened operational readiness across all provinces, with deployment plans designed to protect communities, critical infrastructure and public facilities.

    He said police would conduct daily operational assessments and continuous monitoring of the security environment to ensure a swift response to emerging threats.

    Cachalia added that the South African National Defence Force could be deployed to support police operations if additional capacity becomes necessary.

    The minister assured citizens that the government had established adequate coordination mechanisms across the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster to maintain peace and stability during the demonstrations.

    He disclosed that engagements would be held with premiers of all nine provinces this week to strengthen a coordinated national response.

    “Government is prepared. Our law enforcement agencies are coordinated, our operational plans are in place, and we will continue to monitor the situation daily,” he said.

    Cachalia also revealed that the JCPS Cluster recently met with leaders of the Zulu Royal House to promote messages of peace, tolerance and non-violence ahead of the protests.

    While acknowledging public concerns over issues affecting the country, he stressed that grievances must be expressed lawfully and peacefully.

    “Government hears those concerns. However, they must always be expressed without violence, intimidation or lawlessness,” he said.

  • Russia backs Africa’s reparations push, says colonial powers must be held accountable

    Russia backs Africa’s reparations push, says colonial powers must be held accountable

    ACCRA, Ghana (NPA) — Russia has thrown its weight behind Africa’s growing demand for reparations over the transatlantic slave trade and colonialism, insisting that former colonial powers bear moral, political and material responsibility for the historic injustices inflicted on the continent.

    Speaking at the Conference on the Implementation of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 80/250 in Accra, Ghana, Russia’s Ambassador to Ghana, Andrei Ordash, described the transatlantic slave trade as one of the darkest chapters in human history and called for concrete actions to address its enduring consequences.

    Ordash commended Ghana for its leadership role in advancing global discussions on historical justice, particularly its contribution to the adoption of UN General Assembly Resolution 80/250, which declares the trafficking of enslaved Africans and race-based slavery as the gravest crimes against humanity.

    “The transatlantic slave trade is one of the darkest pages and greatest tragedies in the history of humankind,” he said.

    According to the ambassador, the forced removal of millions of Africans from their homeland over several centuries destroyed traditional societies, fuelled conflicts, enabled the colonisation of Africa and entrenched socio-economic inequalities that continue to affect the continent today.

    He argued that the economic prosperity enjoyed by many developed countries was built on the exploitation of Africa’s people and resources during the slave trade and colonial eras.

    “The welfare of the former colonial powers is literally built on the blood, sweat and resources of the African continent,” Ordash said.

    The Russian envoy also warned that colonialism had not entirely disappeared but had evolved into what he described as modern-day neocolonialism, characterised by financial pressure, technological restrictions and sanctions aimed at maintaining control over developing nations.

    He welcomed the African Union’s decision to extend its reparations agenda beyond 2025 and praised Ghanaian President John Mahama for his role as the African Union Champion for Reparations.

    Ordash said the adoption of Resolution 80/250 marked a major milestone in the global quest for historical justice by providing an international legal framework that could strengthen demands for reparations and compensation.

    The ambassador reiterated Russia’s support for Africa’s aspirations for greater sovereignty, economic independence and a stronger voice in global governance.

    He noted that Moscow had historically supported African liberation movements and decolonisation efforts, including backing the 1960 UN Declaration on the Granting of Independence to Colonial Countries and Peoples.

    Ordash further expressed support for increased African representation in key international institutions, including the United Nations Security Council, and welcomed the African Union’s proposal for Security Council reform.

    He described the implementation of Resolution 80/250 as the beginning of a broader process aimed at addressing the legacy of slavery and colonialism.

    According to him, achieving justice requires more than symbolic gestures and must include reparations, an end to modern forms of exploitation and the creation of conditions that support Africa’s development and prosperity.

    Russia also pledged support for the establishment of a high-level advisory council on reparatory justice, a global expert group on cultural restitution and a global legal group on reparations justice.

    Ordash said Russia was prepared to contribute expertise from its academic and research institutions and would continue to work with African countries on reparations issues through platforms such as the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum.

    “Justice has no statute of limitations. It requires not words, but deeds,” he said.

  • African Union condemns terrorist attack on Niamey International Airport

    African Union condemns terrorist attack on Niamey International Airport

    ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (NPA) — The African Union (AU) has strongly condemned the terrorist attack carried out against the International Airport in Niamey, the capital of the Republic, on June 18, 2026.

    In a statement, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, denounced the attack and expressed solidarity with the government and people of Niger.

    Youssouf extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the attack and wished a speedy recovery to those injured.

    “The Chairperson extends his sincere condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the authorities and people of Niger, and wishes a speedy recovery to those injured,” the statement said.

    He commended the swift response of the Nigerien Defence and Security Forces, noting that their actions helped repel the attack and secure the airport facilities.

    According to the AU Commission Chairperson, the prompt intervention of security personnel prevented further damage and reinforced efforts to protect critical national infrastructure.

    Youssouf reaffirmed the African Union’s solidarity with the Republic of Niger in its fight against terrorism and violent extremism.

    He also reiterated the continental body’s commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at preserving peace, security and stability across Africa.

    “The African Union remains committed to supporting efforts aimed at preserving peace, security and stability across the continent,” he said.

    The AU has consistently called for stronger regional cooperation and coordinated action among African states to combat the growing threat posed by terrorist groups and violent extremist organisations operating across several parts of the continent.

    Yesterday’s terrorist attack at Diori Hamani International Airport in Niamey left 11 soldiers and 2 civilians dead before security forces repelled the assault, leaving 22 attackers dead and about 20 suspects arrested. The al‑Qaeda‑linked group Jama’at Nusrat al‑Islam wal‑Muslimin (JNIM) claimed responsibility for the attack.

  • AAACA, World Bank partner to boost anti-corruption fight across Africa

    AAACA, World Bank partner to boost anti-corruption fight across Africa

    NAIROBI, Kenya (NPA) — The Association of African Anti-Corruption Authorities (AAACA) and the World Bank Group’s Integrity Vice Presidency (INT) have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening anti-corruption efforts and protecting development resources across Africa.

    The agreement was signed during the 8th AAACA Annual General Assembly in Nairobi and establishes a framework for cooperation in information sharing, capacity building, fraud detection and prevention, joint research, training, and technical support among anti-corruption agencies on the continent.

    The partnership is expected to enhance collaboration between African anti-corruption institutions and the World Bank in tackling corruption, improving transparency, and ensuring accountability in the management of public and development resources.

    Speaking on behalf of the World Bank Group Integrity Vice President, Maria Thestrup, Martha Chizuma stressed the need for collective action to address corruption and its impact on sustainable development.

    “Corruption remains one of the greatest obstacles to sustainable development, undermining public institutions, diverting resources from essential services, and reducing the impact of development investments,” Chizuma said.

    She noted that strong anti-corruption systems were critical to safeguarding development gains, particularly in Africa, where the World Bank maintains its largest active development portfolio across key sectors including infrastructure, health, education and energy.

    According to her, strengthening institutional integrity and oversight mechanisms is essential to ensuring that development projects deliver meaningful benefits to citizens.

    The MoU is expected to support African anti-corruption agencies through knowledge exchange, specialised training programmes, technical cooperation and improved mechanisms for detecting and preventing fraud and corruption.

    Officials said the agreement would also facilitate joint research initiatives aimed at identifying emerging corruption risks and developing effective strategies to address them.

    The partnership underscores a shared commitment by AAACA and the World Bank Group to promote good governance, strengthen public institutions and protect development investments across Africa.

    Stakeholders believe the collaboration will help improve institutional capacity, enhance transparency and accountability, and ensure that development resources reach their intended beneficiaries.

    The agreement marks a significant step in regional efforts to combat corruption and foster sustainable economic and social development across the continent.

  • Kenya, South Korea sign maritime pact to boost seafarer employment

    Kenya, South Korea sign maritime pact to boost seafarer employment

    MOMBASA, Kenya (NPA) — Kenya and the Republic of Korea have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the mutual recognition of seafarers’ Certificates of Competency, a move expected to expand employment opportunities for Kenyan seafarers and strengthen bilateral cooperation in maritime training and shipping.

    The agreement was signed in Mombasa on the sidelines of the 11th Our Ocean Conference and establishes a framework for the mutual recognition of maritime education, training and certification standards in line with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).

    Under the arrangement, qualified Kenyan seafarers will be eligible to serve aboard Korean-flagged vessels, while Korean seafarers will be permitted to work on Kenyan-registered ships.

    The agreement was signed on behalf of Kenya by the Director-General of the Kenya Maritime Authority, CPA Omae Nyarandi, and witnessed by the Principal Secretary for Shipping and Maritime Affairs, Aden Millah.

    On the Korean side, the agreement was signed by Kim Hye-jung, Director-General of the Shipping and Logistics Bureau, and witnessed by Deputy Minister Jeongho Seo.

    Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs, Ali Hassan Joho, described the agreement as a significant milestone in the country’s ambition to become a leading maritime nation in Africa.

    “This agreement marks a new chapter in Kenya-Korea maritime relations. It demonstrates international confidence in the quality of Kenya’s maritime training institutions and certification systems.

    “More importantly, it opens doors for Kenyan seafarers to access opportunities in one of the world’s most advanced maritime economies, creating jobs, building skills and enhancing Kenya’s competitiveness in the global shipping industry,” Joho said.

    He noted that the partnership aligns with the government’s broader strategy of leveraging the Blue Economy to drive economic growth, youth employment and international trade.

    Millah described the MoU as a major breakthrough in Kenya’s efforts to build a globally recognised maritime workforce.

    “The mutual recognition of certificates means that Kenyan seafarers will have greater access to international labour markets while benefiting from enhanced professional mobility.

    “It also strengthens cooperation in maritime education, training, certification and knowledge exchange between our two countries,” he said.

    According to him, the agreement will support government efforts to increase the number of Kenyan seafarers serving aboard international vessels, boost remittance inflows and create sustainable career opportunities for young professionals.

    Also speaking, the Principal Secretary for the State Department for Blue Economy and Fisheries, Betsy Njagi, said the partnership reflects Kenya’s growing status as a regional maritime hub.

    “The Blue Economy thrives on partnerships, innovation and human capital development.

    “This agreement enhances our capacity to develop internationally competitive maritime professionals while strengthening Kenya’s position within the global ocean economy. It is a significant investment in our people and our future,” she said.

    The MoU commits both countries to recognising each other’s maritime education, training and certification systems while maintaining compliance with standards set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

    It also provides for information sharing, cooperation in training and assessment programmes, and verification mechanisms to ensure the authenticity and validity of seafarers’ certificates.

    Industry stakeholders have welcomed the agreement, noting that South Korea remains one of the world’s leading maritime nations, with a highly developed shipping, shipbuilding and logistics sector.

    Observers say the pact is expected to create new opportunities for Kenyan seafarers in international labour markets, strengthen maritime training standards and support Kenya’s ambition to become a leading maritime hub in the Western Indian Ocean region.

    The signing comes as Kenya continues to implement reforms aimed at improving maritime governance, expanding seafarer training opportunities and attracting greater maritime trade and investment.

    Analysts believe the agreement will accelerate skills development, facilitate technology transfer and deepen Kenya’s integration into global shipping networks, further strengthening the growth of the country’s Blue Economy.

  • Nigeria, Cameroon sign defence pact to strengthen border security

    Nigeria, Cameroon sign defence pact to strengthen border security

    YAOUNDE, Cameroon (NPA) — Nigeria and Cameroon have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on defence cooperation to strengthen security along their shared southern border and address emerging regional threats.

    The agreement was signed in Yaounde by Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa, and Cameroon’s Minister Delegate at the Presidency in charge of Defence, Mr Joseph Assomo.

    Speaking at the signing ceremony, Musa described the agreement as a significant milestone in deepening bilateral defence cooperation and enhancing security across the terrestrial and maritime domains shared by both countries.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the signing concluded two days of intensive deliberations involving defence and security experts from Nigeria and Cameroon.

    The MoU establishes a renewed framework for cooperation in securing the Nigeria-Cameroon southern border and reinforces the longstanding defence relationship between the two neighbouring countries.

    Key areas of cooperation include enhanced operational coordination, intelligence sharing, logistics support, joint military training, personnel exchange programmes, and strengthened mechanisms for responding to emerging security threats.

    Musa said the agreement would provide a structured framework for military cooperation and joint operations, while institutionalising collaboration in tackling common security challenges.

    According to him, discussions also focused on operationalising the recently established Combined Maritime Joint Task Force, which is expected to serve as a strategic platform for strengthening maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.

    He noted that both countries have critical economic and security interests in the region and must work together to safeguard them.

    The minister also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening collaboration in defence technology and innovation, stressing the need for African nations to strengthen indigenous defence production capabilities.

    He identified limited local production of military hardware as a major challenge facing Africa’s defence sector and called for stronger regional industrial partnerships to bridge existing gaps.

    Musa highlighted opportunities under the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) framework and reiterated Nigeria’s readiness to collaborate in defence manufacturing, technology transfer, research, innovation and capacity development.

    In his remarks, Assomo expressed Cameroon’s interest in expanding cooperation in defence innovation and technology.

    He disclosed that a formal proposal framework was being finalised to translate the discussions into concrete bilateral arrangements in defence technology and related fields.

    The agreement marks a major step in Nigeria-Cameroon relations, underscoring the commitment of both countries to regional stability, sustainable peace, collective security and the protection of national sovereignty.

    (NAN)

  • Museveni receives SADC delegation, considers proposals on cattle genetics, agro-input testing

    Museveni receives SADC delegation, considers proposals on cattle genetics, agro-input testing

    KAMPALA, Uganda (NPA) — Ugandan President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has received a delegation from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) led by South African businessman Andile Ramaphosa to discuss potential areas of cooperation in agriculture, livestock development, and trade.

    Ramaphosa, the eldest son of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Managing Director of Blue Crane Capital, led the delegation on a courtesy visit to the President at the Nakasero State Lodge in Kampala.

    According to a statement issued by President Museveni, the delegation presented proposals for collaboration with the National Animal Genetic Resources Centre and Data Bank (NAGRC&DB) and the Regional Service Centre Initiative at Namunkekera Farm.

    The proposals are aimed at strengthening the regulated breeding, harvesting, and export of Ankole cattle genetics to countries within the SADC region and other international markets.

    The delegation also proposed the establishment of a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) laboratory to help tackle the growing challenge of counterfeit agricultural inputs in Uganda.

    The proposed facility is expected to enhance quality control, improve product verification, and support efforts to protect farmers from fake seeds, fertilisers, and other agricultural products.

    Museveni welcomed the proposals and commended the delegation for its initiative.

    “I welcome these ideas. I thank them for their initiative. The Government will study the proposals and support initiatives that advance Uganda’s socio-economic transformation,” the President said.

    The meeting reflects ongoing efforts by Uganda to deepen regional cooperation, promote agricultural innovation, and attract investments capable of boosting productivity, food security, and export earnings.

  • Equatorial Guinea government resigns after missing development targets

    Equatorial Guinea government resigns after missing development targets

    MALABO, Equatorial Guinea (NPA) — Equatorial Guinea’s government has resigned en bloc after admitting it achieved less than 10 per cent of its development and service delivery targets, exposing deep-rooted governance and economic challenges in the Central African nation.

    The mass resignation was announced during an extraordinary session of the Council of Ministers in Malabo.

    According to an official statement, Prime Minister Manuel Osa Nsue Nsua, who is responsible for Administrative Coordination, formally presented the resignation of all members of the Executive Council to President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo.

    Vice-President Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue, who presided over the session, said the decision followed a review of the government’s performance, which revealed that key objectives had largely not been met.

    He stressed that public office must be measured by results, noting that substantial public resources had been committed to government programmes without corresponding outcomes.

    The resignation is seen as one of the most significant political developments in Equatorial Guinea in recent years and comes amid growing concerns over governance, economic diversification, and public service delivery.

    Despite being one of sub-Saharan Africa’s largest oil producers, Equatorial Guinea continues to face major development challenges.

    The country’s economy remains heavily dependent on hydrocarbons, which account for more than 70 per cent of gross domestic product and about 90 per cent of export earnings, leaving it vulnerable to fluctuations in global energy markets.

    Although recent infrastructure and gas projects have provided modest economic growth, efforts to diversify into sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and manufacturing have progressed slowly.

    Government officials indicated that the unmet targets covered key sectors, including public administration reforms, infrastructure development, economic growth, and the delivery of essential public services.

    Analysts say the government’s performance reflects broader structural issues affecting the country, including limited private sector development, weak institutional capacity, and governance concerns.

    Despite its relatively high per-capita income, Equatorial Guinea continues to record poor outcomes in education, healthcare, and income distribution, with many citizens seeing little benefit from the country’s oil wealth.

    While significant investments have been made in roads, airports, and housing projects, critics argue that development has been concentrated in urban areas, leaving many rural communities underserved.

    The country has also faced persistent criticism from transparency and governance organisations over issues relating to corruption, accountability, and public sector efficiency.

    Observers say the resignation of the entire cabinet signals an attempt by the country’s leadership to reset government performance and restore public confidence amid mounting economic and social pressures.

    It remains unclear when a new cabinet will be constituted or whether the reshuffle will be accompanied by broader reforms aimed at addressing the underlying challenges confronting the oil-rich nation.