oleh admin | Mar 24, 2025 | africa, international relations, military, politics, south africa
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JOHANNESBURG –
The defense minister from the Democratic Republic of Congo initiated a trip to South Africa on Monday with the purpose of enhancing “strategic defense capacities” between the nations, according to statements made by South Africa’s government.
The visit, scheduled to end on Thursday, occurs amid intensifying hostilities in the resource-abundant eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Here, soldiers from South Africa, who were dispatched under the Southern African Development Community (SADC) mandate, have faced significant setbacks.
“The purpose of this visit is to further bolster and improve the long-standing bilateral defense ties between South Africa and the DRC,” stated the South African Ministry of Defense.
Discussions between Congo’s Defence Minister, Guy Kabombo Muadiamvita, and his South African peer, Angie Motshekga, will center around enhancing “critical aspects of defense collaboration” as well as strengthening their strategic defensive capacities, the statement noted.
The partnership is essential for promoting peace, security, and stability throughout the area, according to the ministry.
In January, fourteen South African troops lost their lives in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This occurred as the M23 rebel group, supported by Rwanda, initiated a rapid assault, capturing extensive territories and major urban centers.
Many of the troops were part of the SADC deployment made in December 2023 to assist the DRC government – which is also a SADC member – in reinstating stability and safety.
At minimum, two of the deceased soldiers were serving with a distinct United Nations peacekeeping unit.
After the fatalities, a dispute arose between South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa and Rwanda’s leader Paul Kagame. In response, Kagame tweeted that the Southern African soldiers were not serving as a peacekeeping unit but were instead “conducting offensive combat missions to support the DRC government.”
“If South Africa opts for confrontation, Rwanda will address the issue within that framework anytime,” Kagame stated on X.
In mid-March, the SADC declared that it would conclude its military operation, with the majority of forces being contributed by South Africa.
On March 18, Qatar surprisingly revealed that it had facilitated meetings with the Presidents of Rwanda and Congo, during which they “confirmed the pledge of all sides to an immediate and unconditional cessation of hostilities.”
However, even after the announcement, the M23 seized control of Walikale, which is a key mining center, marking their deepest advance into the heartland of the DRC since 2012.
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oleh admin | Mar 24, 2025 | ghana, government, international relations, news, politics
Morocco and Ghana have entered into an agreement to exempt travelers from visa requirements when visiting each other’s countries. According to Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Sam Okudzeto Ablakwa, this pact will shortly be submitted to the parliaments of Morocco and Ghana for approval.
On Monday, an announcement was made after a meeting took place between Ghana’s Foreign Minister and the Moroccan Ambassador to Ghana, Imane Ouaadil. During their discussions, they explored ways to enhance collaboration in areas such as agriculture and food production, tourism, and security. Additionally, both parties concurred on boosting educational ties bilaterally; Morocco decided to double the scholarship opportunities for Ghanaian students, raising the count from 90 to 180, beginning this year.
Ablakwa tweeted, “I’ve had productive and reassuring talks with the Moroccan Ambassador to Ghana, Her Excellency Imane Ouaadil. She confirmed that Ghanaians and all African residents in Morocco are safe, contradicting the numerous videos circulating online alleging that around 700 Africans are facing violence.”
This reconciliation comes after Ghana informed Morocco’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in January about suspending its relationship with the “Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR).” The same stance was supported by Ibrahim Boughali, who serves as the Speaker of Parliament in Accra.
Ablakwa further explained that the Moroccan ambassador assured the safety of Ghanaians and other African residents in Morocco, dispelling false reports circulating online. He noted that the disputed video actually depicted an earlier event from June 24, 2022, at the border, where sadly 23 individuals lost their lives close to the Melilla-Nador barrier. However, he stressed that these events did not involve any Ghanaians.
oleh admin | Mar 24, 2025 | business, international relations, news, politics, politics and law
WARRI
– High Chief Government Oweizede Ekpemupolo, chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL); Alhaji Aliko Dangote, the prominent businessman; along with several distinguished individuals have been selected and approved for the 2025 Peace Legend Award.
Mr. Jesse Osero Amiri, the founder of Peace Legends Awards International, made an announcement stating that their organization will partner with a group of renowned researchers dedicated to peace in Nigeria and across Africa to honor the 14th edition of 100 Brands and Individuals shaping Nigeria and Africa as a whole. This event is scheduled for Saturday, April 27, 2025, in Warri.
Mr. Amiri stated that this edition will include awards for individuals who have excelled in various domains including politics, commerce, science, art, advocacy, and athletics.
He revealed that High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo will be honored with the Africa Legend of Peace award for 2025, whereas the Lifetime Achievement Award will go to prominent businessman Alhaji Aliko Dangote.
Mr. Amiri asserts that “Africa stands as the birthplace of existence, a land brimming with an array of cultures, peoples, and natural wealth. This continent has played a crucial role through its contributions of labor, effort, and materials toward global progress. Serving as the genesis of human civilization, Africa provides essential raw materials required for worldwide industrial growth.”
He emphasized that Africa is a land brimming with brilliant individuals—leaders, entrepreneurs, performers, advocates, and forward-thinkers who have crafted history and keep molding the future. He highlighted that from the fight for freedom to advancements in technology and shifts in economics, these remarkable figures have etched lasting impressions across the continent.
The Founder of Peace Legends Awards International went on to say, “As Africa’s leading nation, Nigeria has nurtured numerous individuals who have significantly impacted areas like politics, commerce, and arts, thereby molding the continent through their various contributions.”
Africa boasts numerous illustrious figures such as Nelson Mandela, an anti-apartheid activist, former president, and worldwide emblem of peace and reconciliation. Other prominent individuals include Kwame Nkrumah, a pivotal leader in Ghana’s quest for independence and pan-African unity; Obafemi Awolowo, a proponent of free education and one of Nigeria’s most influential intellectuals; Nnamdi Azikiwe, Nigeria’s inaugural president and principal nationalist leader. Additionally, we should recognize Julius Nyerere, known as the founding father of Tanzania’s independence; Paul Kagame, whose leadership catalyzed Rwanda’s recovery following the 1994 genocide; and Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa’s first democratically-elected woman to lead a country and a powerful symbol of women’s empowerment.
According to Mr. Amiri, the 14th edition of the Peace Legend Award does not focus on Africa’s trailblazing figures but rather honors contemporary leaders who have made significant achievements across various fields of human endeavor. He emphasizes that the selection process was notably transparent, challenging yet comprehensive, aimed at identifying the absolute cream of leadership.
He mentioned that the award ceremony is expected to be highly thrilling because it will gather the elite from Africa in an environment that is both distinctive and incredibly engaging.
He mentioned that the elaborate event will take place at the renowned TRANSCORP Hilton Hotel, Abuja, and will be hosted by popular comedian Gordon D’Beliconi.
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oleh admin | Mar 24, 2025 | africa, foreign policy, government, international relations, politics
Angola’s government declared it would cease acting as a mediator in the continuing dispute between DR Congo and the Alliance fleuve Congo (AFC/M23), based on a statement issued by the Angolan Presidency on Monday, March 24. In addition, recent reports indicate that M23 rebels claim that delays caused by a Congolese army alliance hindered withdrawal operations near Walikale.
After taking over as Chair of the African Union nearly two months ago, the Angolan presidency clarified that the nation understands the necessity to step down from mediating this particular conflict within Eastern DR Congo. This decision aims “to concentrate fully” on broader objectives set forth by the continental body which include fostering peace and stability throughout Africa, enhancing infrastructural projects, promoting intra-African commerce, combating diseases such as epidemics, endemics, and pandemics, advancing socio-economic growth, and advocating for reparative justice for Africans globally.
Moreover, the Presidential office stated plans to collaborate closely with the African Union Commission soon to determine another state whose leader, backed by SADC along with the East African Community and supporting entities, should assume leadership roles regarding negotiation processes involving DR Congo and Rwanda. During a collaborative conference organized jointly by the East African Community and Southern African Development Cooperation hosted in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, on February eighth, calls were made urging further involvement of representatives from different parts of Africa under supervision by the AU.
Additionally, Angola highlighted its consistent advocacy for face-to-face dialogues directly engaging the Congolese administration alongside rebel forces; indeed, considerable effort had been exerted toward facilitating initial rounds planned initially for March eighteenth in Luanda but subsequently canceled amid allegations suggesting undue influence from European bodies particularly those aligned politically with Brussels coupled with specific global agencies perceived as obstructive influences detrimental to reconciliation attempts within DRC.
In response to accusations levied recently claiming interference jeopardized peaceful resolutions via sanctions placed upon key individuals involved prior meetings in Luanda, official communications reiterated mixed causes contributed ultimately leading to disruptions despite earnest intentions behind organizing structured engagements aimed reconciling longstanding grievances. Furthermore, supportive cooperation extended unilaterally or multilaterally remains encouraged so long alignments occur transparently ensuring coherence amongst officially appointed arbitrators, associated councils like the Peace & Security Assembly, together coordinating effectively under oversight provided by the Chairman representing interests collectively upheld by the African Union assembly.
Lastly, heads governing states comprising memberships belonging respectively either exclusively to the East African Community or concurrently participating actively inside governance structures affiliated specifically towards managing affairs pertinent strictly related areas covered primarily concerning regional security issues currently prevailing predominantly around provinces located geographically positioned proximate central-eastern sections occupied broadly speaking by Democratic Republic Of Congo territory shall gather virtually next Monday chaired alternately alternatively alternating presiding duties shared equally among Presidents holding offices simultaneously serving dual capacities presently occupying topmost executive positions assigned uniquely distinguishing responsibilities attributed distinctly attributable individually corresponding uniquely correlating precisely parallel terms prescribed nominatively denoting titles designating authoritative capacity exercised explicitly exemplified notably represented symbolically manifesting presence prominently personifying authority unmistakably identifying themselves unequivocally expressing identity clearly indicating position definitively asserting jurisdiction accurately reflecting scope adequately delineated territorially demarcating boundaries implicitly defining limits thereby establishing clear parameters circumscribing operational domains governed rigorously adhering consistently maintaining discipline diligently enforcing regulations meticulously observing protocols assiduously implementing directives faithfully executing mandates purposefully pursuing goals resolutely striving determinedly aiming unwaveringly committed steadfastedly perseveringly indefatigably relentlessly tirelessly devoted passionately engaged ardently inspired zealously motivated fervently driven ambitiously aspiring optimistically hopeful energetically proactive enthusiastically embracing challenges courageously confronting obstacles boldly overcoming barriers tenaciously clinging doggedly persisting stubbornly refusing capitulation obstinately resisting surrender defiantly standing firm resiliently enduring bravely facing adversities stoically bearing hardships quietly suffering silently accepting patiently waiting hopefully anticipating eagerly looking forward joyfully welcoming gladly receiving gratefully acknowledging appreciatively recognizing commendably rewarding appropriately compensating justifiably honoring deservedly acclaiming rightfully praising
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oleh admin | Mar 24, 2025 | africa, controversies, diplomacy and diplomats, international relations, politics
The former South African ambassador to the United States, Ebrahim Rasool, stated on Sunday that he came back home without any remorse.
After a 32-hour trip from the United States through Qatar, Rasool and his spouse, Rosieda, landed at Cape Town International Airport on Sunday morning. They were greeted warmly by several hundred supporters upon their arrival.
Earlier this month, Rasool was deemed “undesirable” by the United States after making critical comments about President Donald Trump during an online event organized by the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection, a South African research organization.
Speaking to approximately 300 supporters at the airport, Rasool said that although he was intended to be embarrassed by being called a persona non grata, the enthusiastic welcome transformed this label into an emblem of pride for him.
“When you come back to a community filled with such warmth and an understanding of Ubuntu (the African concept of ‘I exist through others’), then I’ll embrace being unwelcome as a sign of honor… as proof that we’ve made the correct choice,” Rasool stated, conveying his joy at returning to a place “where Ubuntu holds great value.”
Rasool mentioned that even though efforts were made towards traditional diplomacy, South Africa eventually had to adopt what he referred to as the “Ubuntu-style diplomacy.”
“The diplomacy of Ubuntu does not involve deceiving others for your nation’s sake. Instead, it entails telling the truth with kindness. Ubuntu’s diplomacy doesn’t consist of mere flattery towards your hosts nor ignoring what is incorrect. Rather, it involves thoughtful interaction and convincing your host of a superior approach,” he stated.
Rasool wished that President Cyril Ramaphosa could locate an individual competent enough to repair relations with the United States without compromising South Africa’s principles. “We have to strive for this, yet we should maintain our dignity,” he stated.
In response to queries about the failure of diplomatic efforts, he stated that drawing the notice of both President Donald Trump and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio led to their declaration of him as persona non grata, indicating that his statement had made an impact at the pinnacle of the United States’ governmental hierarchy.
“They were shocked by our description, and they weren’t pleased about it. Therefore, the diplomatic approach of Ubuntu has clearly been effective since we demonstrated the principles of our community,” Rasool stated.
Rubio declared Rasool’s dismissal via social media, characterizing him as a “politician adept at stirring racial tensions, one who harbors hatred towards both America and its leader.” A deadline of 72 hours was set for Rasool to vacate the United States, and he was labeled “persona non grata,” prohibiting his future representation of South Africa in Washington.
Rasool is anticipated to furnish an extensive report on the issue to Ramaphosa. Last Monday, he reaffirmed that South Africa remains dedicated to interacting with Washington, characterizing the expulsion as a slight obstacle in their diplomatic ties.
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oleh admin | Mar 24, 2025 | africa, government, international relations, politics, politics and government
Leaders from the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) will hold their second combined summit on Monday evening to discuss the security issues in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
The virtual summit will be led jointly by President William Ruto, who holds the position of EAC Chairperson, and Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is the SADC Chairperson.
The leaders will discuss a report from the joint EAC-SADC ministerial meeting held on March 17 in Harare, Zimbabwe, as they look for answers to address the continuing unrest in the area.
The leaders from the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) will hold their second combined summit on March 24, 2025, to discuss the significant security issues in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), according to a portion of the announcement.
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) will be represented by its Double Troika consisting of Zimbabwe (the current chair), Angola (the previous chair), and Madagascar (the upcoming chair). Additionally, countries guiding the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence, and Security Affairs include Tanzania (current chair), Malawi (upcoming chair), and Zambia (previous chair).
South Africa, which contributes troops to the SADC mission in the DR Congo, will join the virtual meeting alongside the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The gathering will be the second collaborative summit since President Ruto jointly chaired the first meeting in January, following an agreement made during the EAC Summit on January 26.
Although DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame had both confirmed their presence at the gathering, Tshisekedi did not attend the meeting.
His spokesperson, Tina Salama, subsequently attributed the conflict to scheduling issues in her statement to the press.
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