South African Amapiano Sensation Tyla Makes Billboard Hot 100 Debut with “Water”

In an extraordinary achievement for the South African music scene, 21-year-old Tyla, the rising star of the Amapiano genre, has made an impressive entry into the prestigious Billboard Hot 100 chart with her viral hit “Water.” The Billboard Hot 100 is the renowned US music chart that ranks the most popular tracks each week based on listener engagement.

Billboard magazine announced on its website that Tyla, the talented singer-songwriter, has made her first appearance on the Billboard Hot 100 chart with her breakthrough single “Water,” securing the 67th spot. This remarkable feat has garnered international recognition for the young South African artist.

Tyla Laura Seethal, a multi-talented artist known for her singing, dancing, and captivating performances, has quickly emerged as one of the most promising talents in Africa’s music industry. Signed to Epic Records (Sony), she has already achieved significant milestones in her career, including opening for renowned American R&B singer Chris Brown during his European tour this year.

Her single “Water,” released in July, showcases the distinctive Amapiano style that originated in South African townships before gaining global popularity. The track gained rapid traction, especially on TikTok, where a video of Tyla’s dance moves garnered over 70 million views. The official music video, infused with R&B elements, has already amassed over eleven million views on YouTube. Furthermore, “Water” has surpassed the monthly listening figures of the global hit “Jerusalema” by South Africa’s Master KG on Spotify.

Expressing her excitement on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Tyla exclaimed, “I’m a South African born and bred in Johannesburg. It’s crazy.” She urged everyone to continue spreading their unique sound worldwide, considering her Billboard success as a victory for the entire African music scene. Tyla is currently preparing for the release of her debut album, which is highly anticipated by her growing fan base.

Tyla’s breakthrough on the Billboard Hot 100 is a testament to the remarkable talent emanating from South Africa and serves as an inspiration for aspiring artists across the continent. Her infectious music and electrifying performances have captivated audiences, propelling her to new heights of success and solidifying her position as a rising star in the global music landscape.

Air France Resumes Mali Route with Third-Party Plane and Crews Amid Security Concerns

Air France has announced that it will resume flights to Mali starting Friday, using a plane and crews from a third-party company. The airline had suspended its Mali route in early August following the coup in neighbouring Niger.

In coordination with the French Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGAC) and Malian authorities, Air France spokesperson confirmed that service to Bamako from Paris-Charles de Gaulle will recommence on October 13, 2023. The company is also working closely with Burkinabè authorities to resume flights to Burkina Faso as soon as possible. However, service to Niamey, Niger, remains suspended until further notice.

Flights between Paris and Bamako will operate three times a week (Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays) using a Boeing 777-200 ER aircraft provided by the Portuguese company EuroAtlantic Airways. The flights will no longer be operated by Air France’s own planes. The crew will also consist of employees from EuroAtlantic Airways, which specializes in regular flights as well as rental and charter services.

Air France assures that the aircraft provided by EuroAtlantic Airways complies with all French and European regulations. It is equipped with 30 seats in the Business cabin, 24 seats in the Premium Economy cabin, and 239 seats in the Economy cabin. The onboard services will be the same as those offered on Air France-operated flights. Passengers whose flights are cancelled will be rebooked on available flights or provided with the option to modify their reservation free of charge.

The decision to use a third-party company and crew for this connection is due to the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs “formally” advising against French citizens traveling to Mali, including airline crew, due to the tense security situation. In March, Air France’s pilots’ union called on its members to exercise their right of withdrawal if they did not wish to fly to Bamako.

Security concerns have been raised by various authorities. The American federal agency overseeing aviation (FAA) cited an “increased risk” for commercial aircraft overflying or serving Mali due to the installation of anti-aircraft missile batteries by the Russian mercenary group Wagner. Following Air France’s suspension of the Paris-Bamako route, Malian authorities revoked the company’s authorization to operate the line, considering it a breach of the operating authorization.

Tensions between France and Mali have escalated since the military took control in Bamako in August 2020. The junta expelled French forces in 2022 and shifted its political and military alliances towards Russia. This strained relationship has impacted air travel between the two countries.

Air France emphasizes that the safety of its customers and crews is its top priority and closely monitors the geopolitical situation in the areas it serves and flies over.

 

Source: Africa News

Africa Young Innovators for Health Award Recognises Pioneering Entrepreneurs Driving Universal Health Coverage

In a celebration of scientific excellence and innovation in Africa, the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA) and Speak Up Africa have announced the winners of the second edition of the Africa Young Innovators for Health Award. The prestigious award recognises young entrepreneurs who are making significant strides in advancing healthcare solutions and driving universal health coverage in their communities.

The first prize winners of the award are Teniola Adedeji from Nigeria and Dr. Moses Ochora from Uganda. Adedeji, the CEO of Pharmarun, an on-demand platform that provides convenient access to essential medications, expressed her commitment to ensuring universal health coverage through collaborations among pharmacies. Dr. Moses Ochora, the Co-Founder and CEO of Photo-Kabada, a remotely monitored phototherapy device designed to reduce neonatal jaundice-related morbidity and mortality, emphasised the importance of homegrown solutions in achieving universal health coverage.

The second prize winners of the award are Nura Izath from Uganda and Muhammad Abdullahi from Nigeria, who were also recognized for their innovative contributions to healthcare in Africa.

The second edition of the Africa Young Innovators for Health Award focused on innovations that aim to achieve universal health coverage across the continent. While many African governments have expressed their commitment to achieving universal health coverage by 2030, there is a need to accelerate progress. The award sought to support entrepreneurs whose innovations can extend population and service coverage while ensuring financial protection for patients.

Yacine Djibo, the Executive Director and Founder of Speak Up Africa, highlighted the importance of fresh and purposeful health innovations in advancing equity and delivering essential health services. The award aimed to promote gender equality and support entrepreneurs who contribute to the goal of universal healthcare coverage.

Thomas Cueni, the Director General of IFPMA, congratulated the winners and expressed the organisation’s commitment to accelerating innovation in delivering universal healthcare coverage. Dr. Ibrahima Socé Fall, Director of Neglected Tropical Disease at the World Health Organisation and a jury member of the second edition, commended the program for its tangible and intangible support to African entrepreneurs, contributing to the achievement of common goals.

The Africa Young Innovators for Health Award is a program launched in 2021 by Speak Up Africa and IFPMA. It provides young health entrepreneurs in Africa with funding, business mentorship, intellectual property rights guidance, media training, and access to a network of supporters and partners.

Supported by organisations such as Amref Health Africa, Forum Galien Afrique, and Women in Global Health, the award program recognises the crucial role of innovation in realising the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and fulfilling the fundamental human right to health.

The winners of the Africa Young Innovators for Health Award are poised to make significant contributions to advancing universal health coverage and transforming healthcare in Africa. Their innovations hold the potential to improve health outcomes and create lasting positive change in their communities and beyond.

 

Source: Independent Uganda

Davido and Chioma Reportedly Blessed with Twins in Joyful Surprise

In a delightful surprise, reports have emerged that Nigerian superstar singer David Adedeji Adeleke, widely known as Davido, and his wife Chioma Rowland, welcomed twins in the United States on Tuesday, 9th October, 2023.

The news was initially shared by Evangelist Gospel Agochukwu, who excitedly uploaded his conversation with Davido on the official Facebook page of his church on Tuesday morning, 10th October 2023.

While Davido and Chioma have not personally confirmed the news yet, the virtual world has been buzzing with congratulatory messages on various social media platforms. Fans and well-wishers alike have eagerly expressed their joy and excitement for the couple.

The arrival of twins would mark a momentous occasion in Davido and Chioma’s lives, adding double the happiness to their growing family. As one of Nigeria’s most beloved musical talents, Davido has captured the hearts of millions with his infectious music and charismatic personality. Similarly, Chioma has garnered admiration for her grace and support as Davido’s partner.

Although further details about the twins and their names are yet to be disclosed, the news has undoubtedly sparked widespread celebration among fans of the couple and the music industry as a whole.

As the anticipation builds for an official announcement from Davido and Chioma, the online community continues to share their warm wishes and messages of love, eagerly awaiting more information about the newest additions to the family.

The reported arrival of twins for Davido and Chioma is a moment of great joy and blessings, and it reinforces the love and support they receive from their dedicated fan base.

TotalEnergies Faces Legal Action Following Palma Attack in Mozambique

In a new development regarding the Palma attack in Mozambique that occurred in March 2021, seven survivors or families of victims have filed a complaint against TotalEnergies, the French oil group responsible for a mega-gas project in the region at the time. The plaintiffs, consisting of three survivors and four heirs of two victims, are accusing TotalEnergies of “involuntary manslaughter and failure to provide assistance to a person in danger.” The complaint alleges a series of negligent acts and failure to ensure the safety of subcontractors. However, TotalEnergies denies any responsibility and asserts that it made every effort to assist its staff on-site.

The attack in Palma, claimed by the Islamic State (EI) group, lasted several days and resulted in casualties among the local population and TotalEnergies subcontractors. While Maputo has reported a death toll of approximately 30, independent journalist Alexander Perry, who conducted a five-month investigation in Palma between November 2022 and March 2023, suggests that the number of civilian deaths or missing individuals stands at 1,402, including 55 subcontractors.

During the attack, many sought refuge in the Amarula Lodge, a hotel on the outskirts of Palma that was besieged by jihadists. Tragically, at least seven individuals lost their lives while attempting to escape in a convoy.

The lawsuit against TotalEnergies is primarily based on two reports by risk consulting firms that highlighted the absence of preventive measures. The plaintiffs’ lawyer, Henri Thulliez, emphasizes that the danger was known, as several villages had previously been attacked, indicating a real jihadist threat in the area.

Notably, TotalEnergies’ competitor, Exxonmobil, withdrew its investment in the project and repatriated its staff in 2019 due to concerns about the security situation.

Regarding the allegation of “failure to assist in danger,” TotalEnergies is accused of refusing to provide fuel to a private South African military company, DAG, which was conducting helicopter evacuations from the Amarula Lodge. The evacuations had to be halted due to a lack of fuel, according to Thulliez.

TotalEnergies contends that the Afungi site, where the gas project was located, was under the control of government security forces. The company states that all Mozambique LNG personnel, as well as their contractors and subcontractors, were evacuated, along with many civilians, totaling approximately 2,500 individuals. While TotalEnergies claims to have provided fuel for evacuation and rescue operations, it denies support to the DAG company, citing allegations of “exactions against the civilian population” at the time.

The meticulously planned attack on Palma, a port city with a population of 75,000, marked the culmination of a lengthy period of civil unrest in the region.

The legal action against TotalEnergies highlights the complex circumstances surrounding the Palma attack and raises questions about corporate responsibility in high-risk environments. As the case unfolds, the plaintiffs seek justice and accountability for the tragic events that unfolded during the attack.

 

Source: Financial Times

Tanzania-India Bilateral Trade Volume Surges, President Samia Highlights Strong Economic Ties

President Samia Suluhu Hassan has announced a significant increase in bilateral trade between Tanzania and India over the past five years. Speaking at Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi, President Samia revealed that the trade volume between the two countries has risen from $2.6 billion in 2017/2018 to $6.5 billion in 2022/2023.

India, known as an Asian economic powerhouse, ranks among the top five countries investing in Tanzania. President Samia highlighted that 631 investment projects originating from India, with a total value of $3.7 billion, have contributed to making India Tanzania’s fourth-largest trading partner.

The President emphasized the importance of the growing economic ties between the two nations and called for India to become Tanzania’s number one bilateral trade partner and investment source, given their historic bonds and bilateral relations.

President Samia also expressed appreciation for India’s leadership and contribution to preserving and restoring values and humanity in an increasingly complex and materialistic world. She highlighted India’s active role in various international forums such as the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), the Commonwealth, and the Group of 77 (G77) in the United Nations, which have allowed Tanzania to have a voice and representation.

The President’s remarks underscored the strong economic and diplomatic relationship between Tanzania and India, with both countries recognizing the importance of further enhancing cooperation and mutual benefits.

 

Source: Daily News Tanzania

South African Teen with Rare Genetic Condition Walks Upright, Thanks to Pioneering Surgeon

Keenan Petersen, an 18-year-old born with a rare genetic condition that affected his limbs, has achieved the remarkable feat of walking upright, thanks to the pioneering efforts of Dr. Sietse Wouters, an orthopaedic surgeon at Netcare Garden City Hospital in Johannesburg.

Keenan was born with shortened arms, a missing hip joint, and a missing femur in his right leg. At just 15 days old, he came under the care of Dr. Wouters, who recognized the uniqueness of his case. Driven by his commitment to innovation, Dr. Wouters conducted extensive research and consulted with international colleagues to determine the best surgical approach.

In the early days, doctors believed Keenan might never walk. However, his indomitable spirit and determination led him to find his own way of moving, shuffling on his bum. Keenan embraced his condition, describing himself as “differently-abled” and refusing to let it hold him back.

Joborg Surgeon Walking Stra.jpg (2)

In 2016, Keenan’s growing pains led him back to Dr. Wouters. His unique walking style, with a steeply bent left knee, caused an abnormal curvature of the spine known as positional scoliosis. To address this, a series of surgeries, including a Steel’s Ilio-femoral fusion and a Syme amputation, were performed. These procedures enabled Keenan to use a prosthesis and walk upright.

Keenan’s mother, Rowena Cohen, expressed gratitude to Dr. Wouters, referring to him as their “guardian angel.” She praised the dedication and commitment of the surgeon, emphasizing the significant improvements in Keenan’s posture and mobility as a result of the operations.

Joborg Surgeon Walking Stra.jpg (1)

Recently, Keenan celebrated a significant milestone by attending his matric dance at the Hope School in Westcliffe—a moment that seemed improbable years ago.

Dr. Wouters highlighted Keenan’s exceptional growth as a young man and credited the South African private healthcare system for enabling specialists to work with patients over an extended period, ultimately enhancing their quality of life in complex cases like Keenan’s.

Keenan, currently in matric, has aspirations to pursue a career in Information Technology, demonstrating his determination to overcome challenges and achieve his goals. His story stands as a testament to medical innovation, unwavering support from his mother, and his own indomitable spirit.

 

Source: Independent Online

Tanzanian Government Efforts in Promoting Reading Culture and Eliminating Illiteracy Recognised During Literacy Week

The government has received praise for its efforts to promote a reading culture among school children and the general public. One of the measures taken by the government is the distribution of children’s story books in primary schools, with the aim of eradicating illiteracy within communities.

During the Literacy Week event at Mkuranga Primary School in Mkuranga district, Ms. Agripina Kadama, the Room to Read Programme Operations Manager for Kibaha Community Based office, commended the government’s initiatives. She emphasized the importance of establishing libraries in all primary schools so that books can be easily accessed and borrowed by children, supporting the government’s efforts.

Room to Read, in collaboration with Mkuranga District Council, is implementing the Literacy Project in 35 primary schools. The project provides professional assistance to teachers on facilitating life skills and financial education in 19 schools. It has also conducted training sessions on reading and writing for 113 teachers, library supervision for 95 teachers, and running library sessions for 252 teachers. Additionally, a total of 7,906 books on reading and writing have been distributed to standard one pupils, along with 57,319 children’s story books and 242 guidelines on Library Management.

Representing the District Executive Director (DED), Regina Masyole, the Mkuranga District Adult Officer, reiterated the government’s commitment to working with various stakeholders to eliminate illiteracy. The government aims to create a favourable environment for education in schools and support education stakeholders in achieving their objectives of improving educational standards.

The theme for this year’s Literacy Week celebrations was “Promoting literacy for a world in transition: Building the foundation for sustainable and peaceful societies.”

 

Source: Daily News Tanzania

Baricho Residents in Kirinyaga County to Benefit from New Hybrid Solar and Hydropower Plant

Residents of Baricho in Kirinyaga County, Kenya, are set to enjoy a consistent and uninterrupted power supply with the unveiling of a new hybrid solar and hydropower plant. The Gitwamba power plant, announced during the Renewable Energy Forum Africa, combines both renewable energy sources to ensure a stable base load of electricity throughout the year.

The facility was designed as a hybrid plant due to the fluctuating flow rate of the nearby river, which varies between the dry and rainy seasons. During the dry season, the solar system provides additional power, while the hydropower component contributes extra capacity during the rainy season. This innovative combination guarantees reliable electricity supply day and night for customers in Kirinyaga County.

The Gitwamba hydropower plant has a total capacity of 170 kW. Its hydropower component has an installed capacity of 50 kW, with a design flow of 0.65 m3/s. The solar component, on the other hand, has an installed capacity of 150 kWp and a capacity of 120 kVA (120 kW).

Hydrobox, a company specializing in small run-of-river hydropower projects, developed the hydropower component of the plant. These projects provide eco-friendly electricity to communities and businesses in areas with limited or no access to energy. The power stations serve anchor customers such as large farms and factories, as well as small businesses, schools, hospitals, shops, restaurants, and households through a self-owned mini grid.

SolarNow, an experienced solar engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) company operating in East Africa, contributed to the project. With a focus on the commercial and industrial market, SolarNow offers solar solutions and financing options for businesses and institutions. The company has a strong presence in sectors such as education, healthcare, telecom, hospitality, manufacturing, oil and gas, real estate, and non-profit organizations.

The integration of solar and hydropower in the Gitwamba power plant showcases the potential of renewable energy sources to provide reliable electricity access to communities, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and contribute to a sustainable future.

 

Source: Capital FM Kenya

Egypt Achieves WHO’s “Gold Tier” Status on the Path to Hepatitis C Elimination

Egypt has become the first country to attain the “gold tier” status in the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) journey towards the elimination of Hepatitis C, as confirmed by WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. In a ceremony held in Cairo, Dr. Tedros presented Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi with a certificate acknowledging this significant achievement.

The “gold tier” status signifies that Egypt has successfully met WHO’s programmatic coverage targets, positioning the country to achieve the reduced incidence and mortality targets necessary for full elimination of Hepatitis C before 2030.

Dr. Tedros lauded Egypt’s remarkable progress, noting that the country transformed from having one of the world’s highest rates of Hepatitis C infection to being on the verge of elimination in less than a decade. He commended Egypt as an inspiring example, demonstrating what can be accomplished with modern tools and unwavering commitment at the highest levels of leadership to prevent infections and save lives. He emphasized that Egypt’s success should inspire and motivate global efforts to eliminate Hepatitis C worldwide.

The WHO recognized the Egyptian Ministry of Health and Population’s dedication to sustaining comprehensive screening, care, and treatment services for individuals with Hepatitis C Virus. Egypt’s nationwide campaign, known as the “100 million seha” campaign (meaning “100 million healthy lives”), played a crucial role in this achievement. The campaign has conducted testing on over 60 million people and provided treatment to more than 4 million individuals.

President el-Sisi highlighted his administration’s commitment to eradicating Hepatitis C by establishing treatment centres, providing necessary diagnostic resources, training healthcare personnel, and supporting the local pharmaceutical industry. Egypt successfully produced millions of doses of Hepatitis C medication and ensured ongoing care for patients with complications, delivering the highest levels of medical support.

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that affects the liver, causing acute and chronic illness. It can be life-threatening and primarily spreads through contact with infected blood. Egypt’s progress in combating Hepatitis C serves as a milestone in the global fight against the disease and underscores the importance of comprehensive strategies and strong leadership in achieving disease elimination goals.

 

Source: CGTN Africa