President William Ruto has announced that several foreign digital companies have expressed keen interest in hiring around 300,000 employees for the digital industry in Kenya. Speaking during a church service in Nairobi’s Langata area, President Ruto highlighted that the government has successfully facilitated employment opportunities for Kenyan citizens in renowned companies like Google, Intel, and Apple.

“We have been engaged in negotiations with multiple companies. During my visit to the United States, I had the opportunity to tour Google, Intel, and Apple, and they have shown active interest in recruiting young Kenyans for the digital sector,” stated President Ruto.

The President emphasized that the government is currently working on establishing Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT) hubs in every ward across the country. These hubs will provide training to young Kenyans, equipping them with the necessary skills required for employment opportunities overseas.

“We are fully committed to constructing ICT hubs in every ward throughout Kenya, equipped with computers and essential facilities. Our aim is to facilitate employment for 300,400, or even up to 500 young individuals in the digital sector,” added President Ruto.

In a bid to enhance digital opportunities for the nation’s youth, the Ministry of ICT has recently initiated the provision of free Wi-Fi hotspots. This move aims to increase internet access and connectivity, enabling young Kenyans to explore digital platforms and harness their skills in the digital industry.

The government’s efforts to secure job opportunities in the digital sector and establish ICT hubs reflect a commitment to empowering the youth and leveraging digital technologies to drive economic growth in Kenya. With the support of foreign digital companies and the implementation of initiatives like free Wi-Fi hotspots, the nation’s youth are poised to tap into the vast potential of the digital economy and contribute to Kenya’s overall development.

Tunisia’s President Kais Saied has rejected the European Union’s (EU) recent offer of 127 million euros ($133 million) in aid, stating that it conflicts with the memorandum of understanding signed in July. This move has the potential to jeopardize the “strategic partnership” between Tunisia and the EU, which includes measures to combat human trafficking and strengthen border controls—an agreement that was reached during a period of increased migration from North Africa to Europe.

The European Commission’s decision to disburse the aid was aimed at supporting Tunisia’s efforts to combat illegal immigration from Africa to Europe. However, President Saied expressed Tunisia’s rejection of the offer, not due to the amount itself, but due to the potential conflicts with the previous July agreement. The July deal entailed a commitment of 1 billion euros in aid to Tunisia, encompassing economic support, financial recovery, and addressing the migration crisis.

The recent offer of a smaller amount from Europe has frustrated Tunisian authorities, as they grapple with the challenges of improving public finances. It has also raised concerns among credit rating agencies about Tunisia’s ability to meet its foreign debt obligations in the coming months.

The disagreement between Tunisia and the EU comes at a time when record numbers of migrants from Tunisia and North Africa have been arriving on Italy’s island of Lampedusa. This migration surge further underscores the urgency of finding effective solutions to address the root causes of migration and enhance cooperation between the involved parties.

Tunisia’s response to the migration agreement has included postponing a visit by a European Commission delegation that was intended to discuss the specifics of the agreement. Additionally, Tunisia recently denied entry to five members of the European Parliament’s foreign affairs committee, who sought to hold meetings on Tunisia’s political situation, citing concerns of interference in its internal affairs.

It is worth noting that some European countries, including Germany, have expressed opposition to the migration deal. Critics argue that the agreement fails to adequately address human rights concerns and the political situation in Tunisia following President Saied’s assumption of power, the closure of the Tunisian parliament, and the governance by decree—a move that the opposition has labeled as a coup.

The ongoing dispute between Tunisia and the EU highlights the complex challenges associated with managing migration and fostering cooperation between nations. As both parties navigate their respective priorities and concerns, it remains crucial to strike a balance that ensures the protection of human rights, addresses the root causes of migration, and promotes stability and prosperity for the people of Tunisia and the wider region.

In a recent development that has caused embarrassment for the British government, the high commissioner of Rwanda in London, Johnston Busingye, was secretly filmed criticizing the United Kingdom’s historic human rights record and expressing disagreement with its hardline interior minister’s stance on migration.

Johnston Busingye, a former Rwandan justice minister who now serves as Rwanda’s top diplomat in Britain, was covertly recorded by the campaign group Led By Donkeys, where he denounced London’s centuries-old human rights abuses while downplaying concerns about his own country’s contemporary record.

The UK government had entered into an “asylum partnership arrangement” with Rwanda, aiming to resettle thousands of migrants who regularly arrive in southeast England on small boats from northern France to the East African nation. However, this plan has faced widespread criticism from rights groups and others and is currently facing legal challenges in UK courts.

Interior Minister Suella Braverman has been at the center of controversy over migration, with her recent questioning of the suitability of the United Nations Refugee Convention for the modern age. Busingye, in the undercover recording, expressed his disagreement with the British government’s stance on migrants, stating that they were “absolutely wrong.” He emphasized the need for a long-term policy that would provide alternatives for people to avoid risking their lives in their attempts to reach the UK, highlighting that migrants were driven by hopelessness and a lack of future prospects.

Busingye further criticized Britain’s historical imperial legacy, stating that it was immoral for the country to perceive itself as a refuge, protection, and compassion provider while disregarding its history of enslaving millions of people for 400 years and causing devastation in India, China, and Africa.

The British government, including Suella Braverman, has repeatedly asserted that Rwanda is one of the safest countries in the world to send asylum-seekers and refugees, despite evidence of ongoing rights abuses in the country. In the covertly filmed conversation, Busingye appeared to dismiss concerns about previous incidents involving the killing of refugees in Rwanda casually.

The revelations from the covert recording have further intensified the scrutiny and debate surrounding the UK government’s migration policies and its relationship with Rwanda. Critics argue that the focus should be on addressing the root causes of migration and creating sustainable solutions, rather than relying on partnerships that raise concerns about human rights and accountability.

The United Nations (U.N.) Security Council is set to vote on Monday on a resolution that would approve the deployment of an international force to assist Haiti in addressing a surge in gang violence and restoring security in the country. The resolution, drafted by the United States and obtained by The Associated Press, welcomes Kenya’s offer to lead the multinational security force and emphasises that it would be a non-U.N. force funded by voluntary contributions.

If approved, the resolution would authorise the deployment of the international force for a period of one year, with a review scheduled after nine months. The primary objective of the force would be to provide operational support to Haiti’s underfunded and under-resourced National Police, which currently has approximately 10,000 active officers serving a population of over 11 million people.

According to the resolution, the international force would work towards enhancing the capacity of the local police by jointly conducting security support operations to combat gangs and improve overall security conditions in Haiti. Additionally, the force would play a role in securing critical infrastructure sites and transit locations such as airports, ports, and key intersections.

In order to prevent loss of life and maintain public safety, the resolution grants the force the authority to implement urgent temporary measures on an exceptional basis. These measures would be aimed at addressing immediate security concerns and supporting the efforts of the local police.

The proposed deployment of the international force comes at a time when Haiti is grappling with a significant increase in gang violence, creating a challenging environment for the country to hold long-delayed elections. The restoration of security and stability is crucial for Haiti to pursue its democratic processes and ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens.

The international community recognises the urgency of the situation and the need for collective action to address the security crisis in Haiti. The resolution reflects the commitment to assist Haiti in overcoming these challenges and underscores the importance of international cooperation and support.

If the resolution is passed by the U.N. Security Council, it will mark a significant step towards providing Haiti with the necessary assistance to combat gang violence, strengthen security forces, and create a conducive environment for the successful conduct of elections. The international force, led by Kenya, would play a vital role in restoring stability and promoting a secure future for the people of Haiti.

Source: Independent

A devastating incident unfolded in a Zimbabwean gold mine as a shaft collapse claimed the lives of at least nine miners, as reported by an engineer at the site and the Zimbabwe Miners Federation. Henrietta Rushwaya, President of the Federation, revealed that four bodies have been recovered thus far, while five others remain trapped under the rubble. Hussein Phiri, a mine engineer, confirmed the discovery of the bodies, stating that they are convinced all of them have perished. However, rescue efforts are hindered by ongoing collapses within the mine, posing a threat to the safety of the rescue team.

The tragic accident occurred in Chegutu, located approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles) west of the capital city, Harare, at the Bay Horse Mine. Zimbabwe’s Minister of Mines, Soda Zhemu, who was present at the site to oversee the rescue operation, confirmed that 21 miners managed to escape the mine. Zhemu stated that immediately after the collapse on Friday, 13 individuals emerged from the mine unharmed, followed by the rescue of eight others during the night.

The minister and the engineer also expressed concern for three additional miners who are believed to be missing, though their whereabouts remain unknown. As the hours passed, local residents anxiously observed the rescue efforts, filled with anguish as they awaited news of their loved ones trapped beneath the rubble. Heartbroken women wept, hoping for the safe recovery of their husbands and sons.

Johannes Nyautete, a 33-year-old miner who managed to escape, recounted the harrowing experience. “The mine started collapsing as soon as I entered the underground tunnel, which begins about 250 meters from the ground. It was around 10 am on Friday,” he recalled. “We then witnessed some of our colleagues rushing out of the tunnel, and we escaped together. It was a traumatising experience.” According to Nyautete, the collapse occurred due to the absence of safety pillars within the mine.

Initial reports from the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation had suggested that as many as 18 individuals could be trapped underground. However, Rushwaya clarified that at the time of the collapse, 13 people were able to escape, and another eight were successfully rescued. The nation of Zimbabwe holds significant reserves of platinum, diamonds, gold, coal, and copper, but the struggling economy has led to a rise in illegal mining, often performed under hazardous conditions. Unfortunately, accidents of this nature are not uncommon. In February 2019, 24 miners lost their lives in a flooded abandoned pit caused by torrential rains in central Zimbabwe.

South Sudan President Salva Kiir and Russia’s President Vladimir Putin met in Moscow on Thursday, affirming their commitment to strengthening their bilateral relationship in various sectors, with a particular focus on energy and trade, including the crucial oil industry.

During their meeting, President Putin and President Kiir discussed political and security matters in South Sudan, which is making preparations for its inaugural presidential election in December 2024. South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in 2011, and President Kiir has been at the helm of the country since then.

In a video of their public statements shared by the Kremlin, President Putin expressed his belief that the development of oil refineries in South Sudan, with the involvement of Russian companies, would serve to bolster the ties between the two nations. He emphasized that this was just the beginning and that there were numerous opportunities for collaboration, particularly in the energy sector.

Presently, Russia’s Safinat Group is already involved in the construction of an oil refinery in South Sudan’s Unity state.

Russia’s invitation to President Kiir to visit Moscow coincides with a time when global powers are seeking support from African nations regarding Russia’s intervention in Ukraine.

South Sudan is facing pressure from the United States and other allies to accelerate the implementation of a peace agreement signed in 2018, which aimed to end a five-year civil war and pave the way for the upcoming election.

On its part, South Sudan desires the removal of arms embargoes. As a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, Russia has the potential to assist in this regard.

President Kiir underscored the importance of having strong allies, stating that “the world dictates that no one can survive or succeed alone.” He expressed gratitude to President Putin, declaring that South Sudan needed “strong friends,” with Russia being one of them.

In addition to energy and trade, the leaders also discussed peace and security in Africa, as well as international affairs. The conflict in Sudan, South Sudan’s neighboring country, has resulted in a significant influx of refugees into South Sudan, further straining its already limited humanitarian and other resources.

This marks President Kiir’s second visit to Russia, with his first visit taking place during the inaugural Russia-Africa summit in 2019.

President Putin assured President Kiir of Russia’s commitment to support South Sudan in managing its domestic political situation and ensuring security. He pledged that Russia would do everything possible to assist in these areas.

As South Sudan continues its journey toward stability and development, its deepening ties with Russia offer potential avenues for collaboration and support across various sectors, with the energy industry playing a vital role in the bilateral relationship.

Source: AP

New advisors to Pope Francis will be officially “created” or appointed on Saturday (Sep. 30) during a ceremony inside St. Peter’s Basilica.

During the event known as a consistory, selected clergymen will receive the cardinal’s red three-cornered biretta hat from the Pope.

Three of the 21 new cardinals named last July serve in Africa. Among them is the Archbishop of Cape Town, who spoke on Thursday (Sep. 28) ahead of the consistory.

“I think the church in Africa is young, it’s vibrant, it’s alive, and I think we can bring that sense of joy and that sense of hope to people because Africa is a continent of hope. It is quite true that we suffer from many difficulties and many problems, many challenges, but our people are people of great hope.”

“Coming particularly from South Africa where we have come through the Apartheid era and where I personally expected in those years that the country would just descend into a civil war, we were able to achieve a democratic country and a peaceful settlement. And I think that was a miracle that was given to us, and I think that in itself is a sign of hope as well.”

The co-adjutor archbishop of Tabora in Tanzania and the archbishop of Juba, South Sudan, will also be appointed on Saturday.

Cardinals serve as advisers to the pontiff on matters of teaching and administration.

Most importantly, they participate in the election of the next Pope.

Source: Africa News

In a tragic incident on Thursday, suspected jihadists launched an attack in western Niger, resulting in the deaths of seven soldiers. Additionally, five soldiers lost their lives in a traffic accident that occurred during an intervention in response to the attack. The attack took place in the Tillabéri region, where an anti-jihadist unit was on a security mission in Kandadji. The Defense Minister and General Salifou Mody, appointed by the military regime that emerged from a coup, confirmed the casualties in a statement.

According to General Mody, the unit was violently attacked by several hundred terrorists. The seven soldiers died in combat, and the subsequent intervention led to the traffic accident, claiming the lives of five more soldiers. Seven individuals sustained injuries and were evacuated to a hospital for treatment.

The attackers’ motorcycles and weapons were destroyed in the Tijiane area, located 20 kilometers northeast of Ayorou in the same region. The defense forces have launched a combing operation to track down the enemy and ensure the safety of the area.

Niger has been grappling with jihadist violence from groups such as Boko Haram and its splinter group, Iswap (Islamic State in West Africa), particularly in the southeastern part of the country. In the western region, which includes the Tillabéri region, Niger faces similar violence in the “three borders” zone shared with Burkina Faso and Mali. This area has become a stronghold for Sahelian jihadists affiliated with al-Qaeda and the Islamic State.

Since the coup on July 26, which saw the overthrow of President Mohamed Bazoum, the security situation in Niger has deteriorated. Mid-August witnessed one of the deadliest attacks since the coup, with suspected jihadists killing at least 17 Nigerien soldiers and injuring 20 near the Niger-Burkina Faso border.

In response to the escalating security situation, Niger’s military regime has called for the departure of approximately 1,500 French soldiers who have been assisting in the fight against jihadism. French President Emmanuel Macron announced last week that the French troops would be withdrawn by the end of the year, leading to a negotiation between the two countries. Niger’s military regime emphasized the need for a negotiated framework for the withdrawal of French forces.

The United States, which has 1,100 troops deployed in Niger, is also evaluating its options regarding a possible withdrawal.

In light of these developments, Niger’s military regime, along with neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso, both led by soldiers who came to power through coups, have established the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) to enhance defense cooperation and seek additional allies in their fight against jihadist groups.

Source: France24

A memorial service is being held at the Mandela family home to honour the life and legacy of Zoleka Mandela, an esteemed author and activist who passed away earlier this week. Mandela, aged 43, fought a courageous battle against cancer, which ultimately progressed to fibrosis in the lungs and several emboli.

In a statement issued by the family, it was confirmed that Zoleka Mandela passed away on the evening of Monday, September 25, surrounded by loved ones. The family expressed sincere gratitude to the medical team that provided care and support throughout her illness.

Zoleka Mandela had been open about her health journey, sharing her experiences and raising awareness about cancer. In August 2022, she revealed that the disease had returned after being diagnosed with bone metastasis. Prior to this, she had already triumphed over breast cancer twice.

In a poignant reflection, Mandela expressed her feelings of uncertainty and the challenge of conveying the news to her children. “What do I tell my children? How do I tell them that this time around, I may not get to live my life as a survivor? How do I tell them everything will be okay when it’s not? I’m dying… I don’t want to die,” she shared in the wake of her diagnosis.

Despite grappling with the reality of her condition, Mandela demonstrated remarkable strength and resilience. In an interview with Kaya 959 in April, she discussed her preparations for the eventuality of her passing. She found empowerment in having a say in the plans for her children’s future, stating, “I think that’s empowering me too because, again, I’ve been put in a place where I’m actually able to have a say in the things that I want to happen, especially with all my children.”

On Friday, Mandela’s family will bid her a final farewell in a private service at the Bryanston Methodist Church, paying tribute to her extraordinary life and the impact she made as an author and activist.

Zoleka Mandela’s legacy will continue to inspire others as her loved ones, friends, and admirers gather to celebrate her life, mourn her loss, and reflect on her enduring contributions to literature and advocacy.