South on African Updates

Ramaphosa Calls for Unity and Inclusive Solutions During South Africa’s Youth Day Commemoration

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for unity and constructive engagement in addressing the country’s social and economic challenges, emphasizing that cooperation and shared responsibility are key to building a stronger nation. Speaking during Youth Day commemorations marking the 1976 Soweto uprising, Ramaphosa honored the students who played a pivotal role in South Africa’s struggle for freedom and democracy. The annual event remembers the young people who stood up against apartheid-era education policies and helped shape the country’s future. During his address, Ramaphosa encouraged South Africans to work together in addressing concerns related to unemployment, poverty and inequality, while promoting social cohesion and national unity. “We are not going to allow the grievances and concerns of our people to be misused and abused,” the president said, stressing the importance of finding solutions that benefit all communities. His remarks came as migration and economic development continue to be part of national discussions across South Africa, reflecting broader global conversations taking place in many countries around the world. Ramaphosa also highlighted South Africa’s longstanding tradition of openness and diversity, rejecting narratives that seek to portray the country negatively on the international stage. “There is a lot of disinformation aimed at tarnishing the image of South Africa,” he said, noting that migration management remains a challenge faced by many nations. The president used the occasion to reflect on the aspirations of South Africa’s youth, nearly five decades after the historic Soweto uprising. While acknowledging ongoing economic challenges, he emphasized the importance of expanding opportunities for young people through education, skills development and job creation. Youth Day remains one of South Africa’s most significant national commemorations, serving as both a tribute to the courage of past generations and a reminder of the work that continues to build a more inclusive and prosperous future. African Updates

Nearly 300 Ghanaians Return Home From South Africa Amid Rising Anti-Immigrant Tensions

Thu, 28 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

ACCRA, Ghana The first group of nearly 300 Ghanaians evacuated from South Africa following a surge in anti-immigrant protests arrived in Accra on Wednesday, as concerns grow over the safety of foreign nationals living in Africa’s most industrialized economy.

The returnees landed at Kotoka International Airport to an emotional reception led by Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, with patriotic music echoing through the arrival terminal.

Ghanaian authorities said about 800 citizens have so far registered for government-assisted repatriation flights from South Africa, citing fears for their safety amid escalating hostility toward migrants.

Zimbabwe Political Tensions Rise as Tendai Biti Granted Bail Amid Constitutional Reform Debate

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Political tensions in Zimbabwe are escalating as opposition leader Tendai Biti has been granted bail following a weekend in detention. Biti was arrested near the Mozambique border alongside a fellow activist, facing allegations of holding a public gathering without notifying authorities.

A court in Mutare ordered the release of both individuals on $500 bail, requiring them to report to police every two weeks as part of their conditions.

However, the incident reflects broader unrest across the country. Zimbabwe is currently grappling with controversy over proposed constitutional amendments that could extend President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s rule beyond 2028. The changes may also shift presidential elections from a direct public vote to a parliamentary process, sparking widespread concern.

Namibia and Rwanda Unite to Redefine Justice and Rehabilitation in Africa

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

In a powerful display of Pan-African cooperation, a high-level delegation from the National Assembly of the Republic of Namibia convened at the Rwanda Correctional Service (RCS) Headquarters in Kigali yesterday, Wednesday, January 28, 2026.

The visit, part of a week-long oversight exchange program, highlights a growing trend across the continent: moving away from traditional “prison” mentalities toward holistic rehabilitation and reintegration.

The delegation, led by Hon. James Uerikua, Chairperson of the Standing Committee on International Relations, Defense, and Security, was received by CG Evariste Murenzi, Commissioner General of RCS. The meeting served as a platform to discuss how Rwanda has transformed its justice system in the three decades following the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

17 South Africans Trapped in Ukraine’s Donbas After Joining Mercenary Forces, Says Ramaphosa

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa says 17 South Africans who joined mercenary groups fighting in the Russia-Ukraine war are now trapped in the Donbas region of Ukraine.

According to government spokesperson Vincent Magwenya, the men, aged between 20 and 39, contacted South African authorities asking for help to return home.

President Ramaphosa has ordered an investigation into how these men were recruited into what he called “mercenary activities.” Officials have not confirmed which side of the conflict they were fighting for.

South African Court Rules Lungu’s Body Must Return to Zambia for Burial

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The High Court in Pretoria has dismissed an appeal from the family of late Zambian president Edgar Lungu, who wanted him to be buried in South Africa. The court ruled that Lungu should be laid to rest in his home country.

Lungu, who led Zambia from 2015 to 2021, died in June at the age of 68 while receiving medical treatment in South Africa. Since then, his remains have been kept in a South African morgue as his family fought legal battles over where he should be buried.

African Farmers Push Agro-Processing to Tackle Hunger at IATF 2025

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The African farmer is moving from subsistence to business. This message came out strongly at the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF 2025) in Algiers, where Agro-processing companies from Malawi and Nigeria presented their work.

The National Bank of Malawi PLC joined the exhibition to show how local banks are backing small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The bank is supporting farmers in rice, tea, macadamia, honey, potatoes, and chili processing.

“We finance the whole value chain, from production to processing and finally to market,” said Mr. Chimweme Chijere, Business Development Manager at National Bank of Malawi. He added that African banks must play a big role in food security by giving farmers access to funds and trade tools.

Rwandan Exhibitors Overcome Packaging Hurdles at IATF 2025 in Algiers

Sun, 07 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF 2025) is underway in Algiers, Algeria. The fair started on 4 September and will end on 10 September 2025. It is the 4th edition, bringing together all African countries in one place.

At the previous IATF 2023 held in Cairo, Rwanda faced challenges with packaging. Their products were often more expensive compared to others. This was due to Rwanda’s ban on single-use plastics, which made packaging harder to find.

AfCFTA and Afreximbank Leaders Chart Africa’s Trade Future at IATF2025 in Algiers

Sat, 06 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A fireside chat at the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF2025) on Saturday brought together two leading voices shaping Africa’s trade landscape; H.E. Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the AfCFTA Secretariat, and Prof. Benedict Oramah, outgoing President and Chairman of Afreximbank.

The session, held under the theme “The First Mile to the Future: Reflections on IATF, AfCFTA, and the Power of Partnership,” explored how African partnerships, policy, and finance are driving the continent’s trade transformation.

IATF2025: Algeria Hosts Historic Trade Fair, Pushing Africa's Economic Future

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A new era for Africa’s economy was announced today as leaders, visionaries, and businesses gathered for the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2025. This wasn’t just a business event; it was a symbol of African unity and the big dreams of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The opening ceremony was a lively event, attended by Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and the other heads of state including President of Tunisia Kais Saied, President of Tchad Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno , President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani of Mauritania, and President Daniel Chapo of Mozambique. Their presence, along with representatives from other African countries, showed a shared commitment to bringing the continent closer through business. The IATF has become Africa’s main business meeting place, where plans become real partnerships and deals get made.

Africa: Innovating for a Secure and Stable African Future

Wed, 28 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Kigali, Rwanda from 19th - 20th May 2025, leaders and companies focused on safety met in Kigali. AfricanUpdates talked to some of them. Everyone agreed: for Africa to be safer, countries need to make more of their own security gear. They also need to use new tools and work together better.

Africa faces many tough challenges. Today, over 37 million people in Africa have fled their homes because of fighting. Millions more are displaced inside their own countries. Sudan, Congo, and the Sahel region still see lots of trouble. This shows how much more security is needed. Still, some places are quite safe. Rwanda, for example, has made big strides since its past troubles. Countries like Ghana and Botswana are also known for being peaceful.

Kigali Summit Calls for African-Led Security Solutions

Tue, 20 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A high-level gathering convened in Kigali on 19th May, 2025, as the International Security Conference on Africa (ISCA) opened its doors, drawing a diverse and influential audience. The conference is poised to redefine the narrative around African security.

President Paul Kagame declared the forum “long overdue,” emphasizing the need for the continent to chart its own course in peace and security.

The event attracted key figures from across Africa and beyond. Notably, the Secretary-General of La Francophonie joined the assembly, alongside prominent members of security forces, including top-ranking army and police officials. Delegates filled the Kigali Convention Centre, signaling the weight of the issues at hand.

The Role of Accountants in Creating African Value Digitally

Sat, 10 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Friday, on 9th of May 2025, in Kigali, Rwanda, the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Rwanda (ICPAR) celebrated the launch of its new building, an event that drew attendees from across the continent who were also present for the Africa Congress of Accountants (ACOA) 2025. Against the backdrop of this milestone, a crucial question took center stage: the pivotal role of accountants in achieving Africa’s aspiration of ‘creating value for Africa,’ and the ways in which ICPAR is championing technology to realize this vision.

Rwanda: Tech, Training, and Growth Highlighted by ACOA Exhibitors

Thu, 08 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The bustling city of Kigali became a central point for the future of African finance as the 8th Africa Congress of Accountants (ACOA) unfolded. With a rising number of individuals pursuing higher education across Africa, the congress provided a vital platform for exhibitors to showcase innovations and build crucial connections within the accountancy sector. The growing demand for skilled financial professionals, driven by economic expansion and increasing regulatory complexity, was evident as companies presented their solutions and visions for the continent.

Over 2,000 Accountants Unite in Rwanda for ACOA 2025

Tue, 06 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

KIGALI, Rwanda Over 2,000 professional accountants and key stakeholders from more than 65 countries have gathered in Kigali for the 8th Africa Congress of Accountants (ACOA). The event, taking place from May 6th to 9th, 2025, at the Kigali Convention Center (KCC), is hosted by the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Rwanda (ICPAR) in collaboration with the Pan African Federation of Accountants (PAFA). This landmark event is designed to foster connection, learning, and innovation within the accountancy ecosystem.

Unlocking Trade in Landlocked Countries via SEZs and AfCFTA

Sat, 03 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Landlocked countries in Africa, like Rwanda, have historically faced significant hurdles in international trade. Geographic limitations often translate to higher transportation costs, longer transit times, and reduced competitiveness in the global market. However, a new era of opportunity is dawning, fueled by the rise of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). These initiatives hold the promise of transforming these disadvantages into springboards for economic growth and diversification.

Djibouti: Africa Focuses on Infrastructure for Trade Boost

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Djibouti City, Djibouti - in the Regional Conference on Special Economic Zones in Djibouti on April 22, 2025, focused on the development of infrastructure and trade corridors across Africa, recognizing their vital role in enhancing connectivity and integration.

Discussions centered on initiatives like the Trans-Africa Land Bridge and the challenges and opportunities in developing the continent’s infrastructure.

Mr. Denis Muganga, Director of Private Sector Investment at the Northern Corridor Transit and Transport Coordination Authority (NCTTCA), highlighted the ambitious Trans-Africa Highway project, spanning 18 to 30 countries with a planned 60,000-kilometer network. “I’m sure most of us have heard about this project, considered as one of the major projects of the century,” Muganga stated. However, he also pointed out the slow progress and challenges hindering infrastructure development in Africa.

In Picture: Day 1 of the Regional Conference on Special Economic Zones- Djibouti

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Day 1 of the Regional Conference on Special Economic Zones in Djibouti highlighted the critical role of the AfCFTA in driving African trade and economic integration. Discussions emphasized the importance of innovation, technology, and skills development for the success of SEZs, with a key panel session focusing on these drivers of growth.

[caption id=“attachment_31947” align=“alignnone” width=“1024”] Wamkele Mene, Secretary General of the AfCFTA[/caption]

Djibouti Hosts Regional Conference, Emphasizes AfCFTA's Role in African Trade

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Djibouti City, Djibouti - The Regional Conference on Special Economic Zones commenced its first day on April 21, 2025, in Djibouti, drawing officials and delegates from across Africa. The event highlighted Djibouti’s strategic importance in driving African trade and the critical role of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in the continent’s economic integration.

The Minister of Trade and Tourism in Djibouti, Mohamed Warsama Dirieh, extended a warm welcome, emphasizing the collaborative spirit of the conference. Minister Dirieh underscored Djibouti’s historical and ongoing commitment to economic integration.

Djibouti: Skills and Technology for Special Economic Zones Growth

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A compelling afternoon panel session at the Regional Conference on Special Economic Zones in Djibouti focused on the critical role of innovation, technology, and skills development in driving the success of SEZs and broader economic growth across Africa.

The discussion centered on how these three elements can be leveraged to transform SEZs into dynamic hubs of economic activity and contribute to the overall prosperity of the continent.

Njoroge Francis Gitau, Manager of Special Economic Zones in Kenya, emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to innovation. “It is very critical they don’t see innovation only but also it’s right in the whole sector. Innovation, science, and technology are critical aspects,” Gitau stated. He highlighted Kenya’s commitment to developing its human capital, noting, “We offer training to the youth in Kenya, we understand the issue around capacity building, we ensure we have centers for where to offer trainings.”

Africa Peace Run: A Collective Step Toward Unity and Stability Across the Continent

Sun, 26 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

On a mission to promote peace and unity across Africa, the Africa Peace Run initiative has gained significant momentum under the leadership of the Global Election Observation Mission (GEOM). This initiative seeks to bridge divides and address the underlying issues of violence and political unrest by engaging the continent’s most valuable resource, its youth.

The idea behind the Africa Peace Run was born from the understanding of Africa’s history and the challenges it continues to face. Kaikare Ronald, the Head of Programs at GEOM and Director of Africa Peace Run, shared his thoughts on why this initiative is so crucial for the continent.