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Category: Africa

  • Botswana announces memorial schedule for Late President Festus Mogae

    Botswana announces memorial schedule for Late President Festus Mogae

    GABORONE, Botswana (NPA) — The Government of Botswana has announced a series of memorial activities in honour of the country’s former president, Festus Gontebanye Mogae, who died at the age of 86.

    According to a public notice issued by the Republic of Botswana’s Office of the President, the memorial activities will begin on Monday, May 11, with prayer sessions at the Gaborone Boipuso Hall and continue through Saturday, May 16, when the late statesman will be buried in Gaborone.

    The schedule released by the government indicated that prayer sessions would hold daily from May 11 to May 14 between 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.

    A condolence register will also be opened at the Gaborone Parliament from Tuesday, May 12, to Friday, May 15, between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.

    The late former president is expected to lie in state at Parliament on Wednesday, May 13, from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., while a memorial service will take place on Thursday, May 14, at a venue yet to be announced.

    According to the schedule, a procession of honour will be held on Friday, May 15, between 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., ahead of the burial scheduled for Saturday, May 16.

    Earlier, Newpost Africa reported that Mogae’s death was announced by Duma Boko, who also declared three days of national mourning, with flags ordered to fly at half-mast across the country.

    Mogae, Botswana’s third president, served from 1998 to 2008 and earned international recognition for his economic leadership during the country’s diamond-driven growth era.

    He was also widely praised for spearheading one of Africa’s most ambitious HIV/AIDS treatment programmes, which significantly reduced infection and mortality rates in Botswana.

    Beyond his presidency, Mogae remained active in peace mediation and public health advocacy across Africa.

    In 2008, he received the prestigious Ibrahim Prize for Achievement in African Leadership in recognition of his democratic leadership and peaceful transfer of power.

    His death has been widely described as the loss of a respected African statesman known for his commitment to democracy, good governance and public health reforms.

  • Ruto hosts Sierra Leone’s Bio ahead of Africa Forward Summit

    Ruto hosts Sierra Leone’s Bio ahead of Africa Forward Summit

    NAIROBI, Kenya (NPA) — Kenya’s President William Samoei Ruto has welcomed Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio to the State House in Nairobi, as the West African leader arrived to participate in the Africa Forward Summit scheduled to begin on May 11, 2026.

    Ruto glowingly highlighted the strong ties between Kenya and Sierra Leone, describing them as anchored on “mutual respect, pan‑Africanism and regional stability.” He pledged that both governments would continue to collaborate in advancing shared interests and the broader African agenda.

    “This includes championing reform of the international financial architecture, global governance — especially at the United Nations Security Council — and climate action. The summit provides a suitable forum for the exchange of ideas and views on these issues,” Ruto said.

    During the bilateral discussions, Ruto also informed Bio of Kenya’s candidature for a seat on the International Criminal Court (ICC), requesting Sierra Leone’s support for Supreme Court Judge Njoki Ndung’u.

    Meanwhile, before departing for Nairobi, President Bio presided over a symbolic event in Kenema, Sierra Leone, where he broke ground for a state‑of‑the‑art party office for the Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP). The new facility, he said, marks a fresh chapter for the SLPP, which has long been at the forefront of Sierra Leone’s drive toward transformative and sustainable growth.

    The Nairobi meeting sets the stage for deeper cooperation between the two nations, while the Africa Forward Summit is expected to provide a platform for leaders to deliberate on reforms in global governance, climate resilience, and Africa’s role in shaping international financial systems.

  • ECOWAS trains 500 journalists, strengthens fight against misinformation

    ECOWAS trains 500 journalists, strengthens fight against misinformation

    ABUJA, Nigeria (Agency Report) — President of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission, Omar Touray, says the regional body has trained no fewer than 500 journalists across West Africa in recent years as part of efforts to combat misinformation and disinformation.

    Touray disclosed this while presenting his Community Work Programme address at the ongoing 2026 First Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Parliament in Abuja.

    According to him, the training initiative was aimed at countering the growing threat posed by fake news to peace, democracy and regional stability within the sub-region.

    The ECOWAS Commission president also said the organisation had reinvigorated its information management and strategic communication systems to strengthen the fight against misinformation across West Africa.

    “The ECOWAS Information and Communication Policy is currently being modernised to address emerging realities surrounding social media and artificial intelligence,” he said.

    Touray added that ECOWAS had supported The Gambia in establishing the region’s first National Response Centre to Combat Misinformation as part of broader efforts to safeguard democratic institutions and public trust.

    Reaffirming the commission’s commitment to regional integration, he said ECOWAS would continue prioritising stronger cooperation, accountability and citizen-focused governance aimed at building a peaceful and prosperous West Africa.

    Touray further stated that the regional bloc remained resilient in pursuing its goals of economic integration and development despite mounting global economic and security challenges.

    According to him, the sub-region is gradually regaining economic momentum while confronting terrorism, political instability and disinformation.

    He disclosed that economic growth within the sub-region increased from 4.3 per cent in 2024 to 4.8 per cent in 2025, with projections indicating further growth to 5.0 per cent in 2026.

    “This progress stems from the reforms undertaken by Member States, improved fiscal management, declining inflation and renewed efforts to strengthen intra-regional trade under the ECOWAS integration framework,” he said.

    Touray urged member states to sustain reforms capable of driving industrial growth, job creation and regional competitiveness.

    He also highlighted ECOWAS interventions in peace and security, including intensified mediation and preventive diplomacy efforts across conflict-prone areas within the sub-region.

    The ECOWAS president disclosed that preparations for the proposed Regional Counterterrorism Force had reached an advanced stage amid rising threats posed by terrorism and violent extremism across West Africa.

    “ECOWAS has also strengthened maritime and border security mechanisms to address the security threats,” he added.

    Touray further revealed that the commission continued diplomatic engagement with the Sahel countries of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger despite tensions surrounding their withdrawal from ECOWAS.

    He also disclosed that more than 5.3 million vulnerable persons across the region had benefited from ECOWAS humanitarian interventions, particularly in conflict-affected and disaster-prone communities.

    According to him, the commission also expanded empowerment opportunities for youths and women through entrepreneurship support schemes, academic mobility programmes and regional development initiatives aimed at reducing unemployment and social exclusion.

    The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Touray’s tenure as President of the ECOWAS Commission is expected to end in August 2026.

  • UN Deputy SG Amina J. Mohammed mourns passing of former Botswana President Festus Mogae

    UN Deputy SG Amina J. Mohammed mourns passing of former Botswana President Festus Mogae

    NEW YORK, U.S. (NPA) — Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Amina J. Mohammed, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former President of Botswana, Festus Mogae, who passed away on Friday, May 8, 2026.

    “I am saddened by the passing of former President of Botswana, Dr. Festus Mogae,” she said.

    In a statement issued on Friday, Mohammed described the late former president as a visionary leader who played a key role in shaping Botswana’s record of stability and progress. She also noted his courage and compassion in addressing the AIDS crisis, which remained a defining part of his public service legacy.

    She further praised Mogae’s strong belief in Africa’s economic transformation, saying it inspired action across the continent.

    “My heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones and the people of Botswana,” her statement concluded.

    Here’s a sharper, newsroom‑ready edit of your draft in the style you’ve been using:

    Festus Mogae, Botswana’s third president, died at 86 in Gaborone. His passing was announced by President Duma Boko, who declared three days of national mourning with flags flown at half‑mast. Mogae, who led Botswana from 1998 to 2008, earned widespread respect for his economic stewardship during the country’s diamond‑driven growth and for spearheading one of Africa’s most ambitious HIV/AIDS treatment programs, which dramatically reduced infection and mortality rates.

    Beyond his presidency, Mogae remained a prominent voice in peace mediation and public health advocacy. In 2008, he was awarded the prestigious Ibrahim Prize for Achievement in African Leadership, honoring his democratic governance and peaceful transfer of power. His death marks the loss of a leader celebrated across Africa and internationally for his unwavering commitment to democracy, good governance, and solidarity in confronting public health challenges.

  • Uganda deploys 69-personnel contingent for EAC security exercise in Kenya

    Uganda deploys 69-personnel contingent for EAC security exercise in Kenya

    KAMPALA, Uganda (NPA) — The Government of Uganda has flagged off a 69-member contingent to participate in the 14th edition of the East African Community (EAC) Command Post Exercise (CPX), codenamed “Ushirikiano Imara 26,” scheduled to hold in Nairobi from May 8 to May 28, 2026.

    The contingent comprises personnel drawn from the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF), the Uganda Police Force, Uganda Prisons Service and civilian agencies.

    The flag-off ceremony was officiated by the Commandant of the Senior Command and Staff College, Kimaka, Micheal Kabango, who described the exercise as a major step in advancing regional integration within the East African Community.

    “This exercise you are going for is a testimony of the milestone in the integration of the East African federation. It will create a platform for East African forces to work together and address contemporary security challenges,” Brig. Gen. Kabango said.

    He urged the contingent to maintain discipline and professionalism throughout the exercise, noting that they would be representing Uganda on a regional stage.

    “Carry our flag high, make it shine, and represent our country with honour and integrity,” he added.

    The Commander of Headquarters Uganda Rapid Deployment Capability (URDC), Ernest Nuwagaba, who is leading the contingent, said the team includes military, police and civilian components aimed at strengthening inter-agency coordination among EAC partner states.

    “This multi-dimensional team will strengthen coordination among states and inter-agency actors working together in a unified mission environment,” Brig. Gen. Nuwagaba said.

    The head of the police component, Senior Superintendent of Police Denis Ochama, said the police team would contribute to joint operational planning and coordinated response efforts during the exercise.

    Speaking on behalf of the civilian component, Senior Immigration Officer Joseph Humphrey Wejuli said the civilian team includes experts from immigration services, correctional institutions and humanitarian organisations.

    According to him, the civilian component will provide mission support and advisory services throughout the exercise.

    The “Ushirikiano Imara 26” exercise is being conducted under the EAC Protocol on Cooperation in Defence Affairs and is designed to strengthen the capacity of armed forces, police services, civilian agencies and other stakeholders in responding jointly to evolving regional security threats.

  • Kenyan police foil burglary attempt, arrest suspect in Kisumu

    Kenyan police foil burglary attempt, arrest suspect in Kisumu

    KISUMU, Kenya (NPA) — The National Police Service on Friday said officers successfully foiled an attempted burglary at Holo Trading Centre in Kisumu County, leading to the arrest of a suspect.

    According to a security report issued by the service, officers attached to Holo Police Station in Kisumu West Sub-County responded to a distress call from a security guard in the early hours of Friday.

    Police said that upon arrival at the scene, officers discovered a suspect on the rooftop of a building after allegedly dismantling part of the roofing in an attempt to gain entry into the premises.

    The suspect, who was reportedly armed with a sword, allegedly ignored initial orders to surrender and charged at the responding officers before eventually giving up.

    Police said the suspect was immediately arrested and taken into custody pending arraignment.

    A sword and a metal bar were recovered from the scene and secured as exhibits, according to the statement.

    The National Police Service commended the vigilance of the security personnel and the swift response of the patrol team, noting that their actions helped prevent possible loss of property.

    The service also urged members of the public to continue reporting suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through emergency lines and other official reporting channels.

  • AU reaffirms commitment to staff welfare, condemns terror attack in Chad

    AU reaffirms commitment to staff welfare, condemns terror attack in Chad

    ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (NPA) — The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, and the Deputy Chairperson, Selma Malika Haddadi, have reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to staff welfare, institutional efficiency and sustainable reforms during a meeting with the AU Staff Association.

    The meeting, held at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, provided an opportunity for dialogue between the Commission’s management and staff members on issues affecting the organisation and its workforce.

    In their remarks, the AU leaders commended staff members for their dedication, professionalism and continued commitment to advancing the mandate of the organisation in service of African citizens.

    They also stressed the importance of strengthening staff welfare and institutional capacity through sustainable approaches and broader support mechanisms.

    According to the Commission, the leadership underscored the need for continued engagement with member states in pursuit of lasting solutions aimed at safeguarding the effectiveness and long-term stability of the Commission, including issues relating to the implementation of the Skills Audit and Competency Assessment (SACA).

    Staff members at the meeting reportedly expressed appreciation for reforms undertaken so far in the interest of staff welfare and institutional efficiency, while reaffirming their commitment to supporting the goals of the organisation.

    The Chairperson urged staff to continue working in a spirit of solidarity, professionalism and collective responsibility to ensure the effective delivery of the African Union’s priorities and programmes.

    Meanwhile, the African Union Commission has strongly condemned the terrorist attack carried out on Monday, May 4, 2026, against a military base in Barka Tolorom, located on the Chadian shore of Lake Chad.

    The Commission said the attack resulted in casualties and injuries among Chadian defence forces.

    In a statement, the AU Commission expressed condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the government and people of Chad, while wishing those injured a swift recovery.

    The Commission also reiterated the AU’s solidarity with member states of the Lake Chad Basin Commission engaged in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism in the region.

    It further reaffirmed the African Union’s commitment to supporting Chad and countries within the Lake Chad Basin through existing cooperation mechanisms, liaison structures and relevant regional security initiatives aimed at combating terrorism.

  • DRC Deepens Cooperation with Uganda and Russia

    DRC Deepens Cooperation with Uganda and Russia

    KINSHASA, DRC (NPA) — The Congolese Minister of State, H.E. Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, today, received in audience the Ugandan Republic’s Deputy Minister for Regional Integration, John Mulimba. The DRC’s Minister for Regional Integration, Floribert Anzuluni Isiloketshi, also joined the discussions.

    Talks focused on preparations for the 9th session of the DRC–Uganda Joint Great Commission, scheduled to take place in Uganda from May 8 to 12, 2026. The meeting reflects the two countries’ shared commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation across sectors of mutual interest.

    In a separate engagement the same day, Minister Wagner also met with H.E. Karl Tikhaze, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the DRC. Their discussions centered on the DRC’s participation in the upcoming 3rd Russia–Africa Summit, set for October 28–29, 2026 in Moscow.

    The Minister welcomed Russia’s continued support for the DRC, particularly on security challenges in the eastern region. Talks also explored collaboration on peace and security issues in the context of the DRC’s upcoming presidency of the United Nations Security Council in July 2026.

    Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the DRC–Russia strategic partnership, with emphasis on cooperation in health, scientific research, education, and judicial affairs.

  • Amnesty International accuses China of blocking RightsCon event

    Amnesty International accuses China of blocking RightsCon event

    LUSAKA, Zambia (NPA) — Amnesty International has accused China of being behind the sudden stoppage of RightsCon, the global technology and human rights conference scheduled to open in Lusaka, Zambia from Tuesday until Friday this week.

    Organizers said foreign interference forced the postponement, marking what Amnesty described as a growing pattern of Chinese authorities using influence to silence dissent and restrict open dialogue.

    More than 5,000 participants from 150 countries and 750 organizations had registered, and this would have been the first time the event was hosted in Sub‑Saharan Africa.

    Amnesty condemned the development as censorship and a direct attack on freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly. “State‑driven intimidation must face consequences,” the group said, urging the Zambian government to disclose the full reasons behind the cancellation.

    The rights group called on all states to support the event organizer, Access Now, in securing an alternative venue to ensure RightsCon takes place this year. The organization warned that efforts to suppress debate undermine democratic values and global cooperation on human rights.

  • AU positions sport as engine of jobs, unity and growth under Agenda 2063

    AU positions sport as engine of jobs, unity and growth under Agenda 2063

    YAOUNDÉ, Cameroon (NPA) — The African Union says sport is increasingly becoming a strategic driver of economic growth, job creation, and continental unity as Africa seeks to redefine its global influence under Agenda 2063.

    This position was highlighted in an engagement with the Head of the African Union Sports Council, Chipande, who outlined how the AU is repositioning sport as a central pillar of development policy across member states.

    The African Union Sports Council (AUSC), a specialised technical office of the African Union, was established following the endorsement of its statute by African Heads of State and Government in 2016. It is headquartered in Yaoundé, Cameroon, and serves as the coordinating body for the African sports movement.

    Its mandate includes coordinating sports policy development across member states, promoting sport as a fundamental human right, and advancing “sport-for-development” initiatives aimed at youth empowerment, skills development, and social integration.

    The council is also responsible for facilitating the alignment of national sports policies with the African Union framework for sustainable sports development, as well as overseeing the organisation of the African Games and improving their global profile.

    In addition, the AUSC promotes good governance, democratic values, human rights, gender equality, and social inclusion within the sports sector, while strengthening cooperation among member states.

    Sport governance in Africa has evolved through decades of institutional reform. The structure traces its roots to the 1966 establishment of the Supreme Council for Sports in Africa (SCSA), which was later recognised by the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) as the coordinating body for continental sports development.

    Following the formation of the African Union in 2002, member states pushed for a renewed sports architecture aligned with continental development goals. This led to the dissolution of the SCSA in 2012 and the creation of a new framework approved in 2016, culminating in the establishment of the current AUSC.

    The AUSC Secretariat, based in Yaoundé, serves as the administrative hub of the institution, coordinating programmes, research, conferences, and implementation of policy decisions under the guidance of a Sports Advisory Board. It is staffed by professionals under the African Union Commission and oversees day-to-day operations of continental sports initiatives.

    Officials say the integration of sport into Africa’s development agenda reflects a broader shift toward leveraging the sports and creative economy as tools for employment generation, regional integration, and global competitiveness.