Botswana’s President Mokgweetsi Masisi Highlights Achievements and Future Plans in State of the Nation Address

Botswana's President Mokgweetsi Masisi Highlights Achievements And Future Plans In State Of The Nation Address

Botswana’s President Mokgweetsi Masisi delivered a State of the Nation Address during the opening of the country’s Parliament, outlining the government’s successes and ambitious plans ahead of the upcoming elections next year. In his address, President Masisi emphasised the importance of various sectors, including tourism, agriculture, mining, real estate, creative industries, sport, manufacturing, science and technology, and the digital economy.

One of the notable achievements mentioned by President Masisi was the successful restriction of vegetable imports from South Africa, which resulted in a significant reduction in the country’s import bill. He further pledged to invest funds derived from De Beers into agriculture and tourism, aiming to achieve “prosperity for all” by 2036.

President Masisi also highlighted the government’s efforts to digitise services and improve online accessibility for citizens. Plans are underway to enable online applications for national identification cards, passports, social benefit grants, driver’s licenses, and other services. The government has engaged youth-led companies to provide e-commerce-related activities and is working towards implementing an electronic medical records system in the e-health sector by March 2024. Additionally, initiatives in e-learning, e-commerce, and other internet-based services aim to integrate various aspects of life in Botswana.

In terms of connectivity, the government has successfully connected 1,138 public facilities in 144 villages to high-speed internet, benefiting around half a million people in a population of 2.4 million.

Regarding the agriculture sector, President Masisi expressed plans to create a horticultural market by April next year, promoting wider citizen participation in agribusiness and associated value chains. Efforts to liberalise the beef business and enhance local production of meat and milk through artificial insemination programs were also highlighted.

Diamonds remain a crucial source of foreign exchange for Botswana, and the revised contracts with the De Beers Group are expected to generate significant revenue for the state. The Diamond Development Fund is projected to accumulate P10 billion over the next decade, benefiting other sectors of the economy such as tourism, hospitality, agriculture, research, and development.

Furthermore, Botswana will host the Kimberley Process Permanent Secretariat, a global regulator of the diamond mining industry, starting in January next year. President Masisi sees this as a testament to the international community’s confidence in Botswana’s governance processes.

The government is also focused on boosting the tourism sector, with plans to transform the Chobe area into a high-value tourism destination through the Kasane-Kazungula redevelopment project. Various international events and festivals held in Botswana, including the Toyota Gazoo, Desert Race, Makgadikgadi Epic, and Kazungula Marathon, are expected to attract more visitors to the country.

President Masisi emphasised Botswana’s commitment to establishing itself as a preferred destination for hosting meetings, conferences, exhibitions, and incentives. Hosting these events brings numerous benefits to sectors such as hotels, hospitality, retail, and transportation.

In conclusion, President Masisi’s State of the Nation Address highlighted the government’s achievements in various sectors and its plans for future development. The focus on agriculture, tourism, digitisation, and the diamond industry reflects Botswana’s commitment to economic growth and prosperity.

 

Source: News24

Kenya Sends Farm Workers to Israel to Address Labour Shortage

Kenya Sends Farm Workers To Israel To Address Labour Shortage

Kenya’s labour ministry has announced that it will send 1,500 farm workers to Israel, following in the footsteps of Malawi, which sent 221 young people to work on Israeli farms recently. The workers will be deployed on renewable three-year contracts with a guaranteed net monthly income of $1,500. Israel has turned to Africa to fill the labour gap on its farms after the departure of over 10,000 foreign workers, primarily from Thailand, due to the war with Hamas. The country has also restricted the entry of Palestinian workers, who formerly comprised nearly 20% of the agricultural labour force. Israel’s ambassador in Kenya stated that plans are underway to recruit farm workers from Uganda, while recruitment in Tanzania has already begun. Concerns have been raised about the workers’ safety and the working conditions they may face in Israel, given previous reports of unsafe practices and poor living conditions for migrant farm workers. However, Israel has implemented additional measures to ensure fair treatment of foreign workers and has stated that they enjoy the same employment rights as Israeli citizens. The move has received mixed reactions in Kenya, with some viewing it as an opportunity for much-needed jobs, while others express concerns about workers’ welfare in a conflict-prone region.

 

Source: BBC

Burkina Faso Adopts Bill Making National Languages Official, Demoting French to Working Language

Burkina Faso Adopts Bill Making National Languages Official, Demoting French To Working Language

The Burkinabè government has passed a bill revising the Constitution, officially recognising national languages as the country’s official languages, while relegating French to the status of a “working language.” The bill, which is part of the transitional government’s mission to strengthen democracy and the rule of law, aims to initiate political, administrative, and institutional reforms.

Among the significant changes introduced by the bill is the establishment of national languages as official languages, replacing French. This move follows a similar decision made earlier this year by Mali, which also modified its Constitution to downgrade French to a working language.

The bill, which still requires approval from the Transitional Legislative Assembly, also includes provisions for the establishment of traditional and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. Furthermore, the bill expands the missions of the Constitutional Council while abolishing institutions such as the High Court of Justice, responsible for judging senior political figures, and the Mediator of Faso.

The National Intelligence Agency (ANR), a powerful agency, has its status reinforced and protected by being enshrined in the Constitution.

In recent months, demonstrations advocating for a new Constitution have taken place in Burkina Faso. Captain Ibrahim Traoré, who assumed power in September 2022, had pledged to partially modify the Constitution two months ago.

Prime Minister Apollinaire Joachimson Kyelem of Tambela stated that the writing of a new Constitution is essential for political, economic, and cultural sovereignty. Burkina Faso aims to move away from foreign concepts and establish its own identity. These changes reflect a shift in the country’s relationship with France, its former colonial power, and a move towards closer ties with Moscow.

Since 2015, Burkina Faso has been grappling with violence perpetrated by jihadist groups, which have also affected neighbouring Mali and Niger, resulting in a death toll of over 17,000 people.

 

Source: Africa News

Seychelles Declares State of Emergency After Flooding and Explosions

Seychelles Explosion Floods

Seychelles, a small island nation in the Indian Ocean, declared a state of emergency following a massive blast at an explosives depot, which occurred after deadly flooding hit the country. Three people lost their lives in the flooding, according to the president.

The explosion took place in the industrial area of Providence, located around 7 kilometres southeast of the capital, Victoria, on the main island of Mahe. Over 100 individuals were injured, and buildings were destroyed while trees were flattened in the vicinity. The blast was followed by heavy rain and flooding that affected the northern part of Mahe, causing flooding, washed-out roads, and landslides.

President Wavel Ramkalawan announced the state of emergency, ordering the closure of schools and instructing people to stay at home to allow emergency services and essential workers to carry out their duties. The blast resulted in massive damage, while the floods caused major destruction.

Ramkalawan later confirmed that three people died due to the heavy rain and flooding, and 125 individuals sustained injuries from the blast. Many buildings were partially or completely destroyed, leaving a large crater. Families have been forced to evacuate their homes due to safety concerns.

The president expressed shock at the aftermath of the incident, describing it as akin to a war zone. An investigation will be conducted to determine if the construction company housing the explosives followed proper storage precautions.

While the international airport and ferry services between islands continue to operate, allowing essential travel during the state of emergency, Seychelles’ tourism industry, a major economic sector, may be impacted. The country is known for its natural beauty and is located off the east coast of Africa.

Flooding and heavy rainfall have affected several countries in the East African region, leading to loss of life and displacement of millions of people. Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, and South Sudan have all experienced severe floods exacerbated by the El Niño phenomenon. The death toll in the region has surpassed 130 individuals.

 

Source: ABC News

German Troops Begin Withdrawal from Gao as UN Peacekeeping Mission in Mali Winds Down

German Troops Begin Withdrawal From Gao As Un Peacekeeping Mission In Mali Winds Down

The withdrawal of German troops from Gao, Mali, has commenced as the United Nations (UN) undertakes the dismantling of its peacekeeping mission in the country by the end of this year. Starting on Tuesday, personnel stationed at Camp Castor, which supports the activities of the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in Mali (MINUSMA), began disassembling and transporting their equipment back to Germany.

This move aligns with the UN Security Council’s decision in June to conclude the decade-long peacekeeping mission in Mali. The military junta in Mali, which has recently aligned itself with Russia, had urged the removal of foreign troops from the country. The junta’s cooperation with Russia also included the involvement of the Wagner Group.

Mali’s relationship with the United Nations has significantly deteriorated since a military coup in 2020 brought a military regime to power, which subsequently severed defence cooperation with France, its former colonial power. As per the long-standing UN protocol, the host country’s approval is required for a peacekeeping mission to be established.

As of the end of November, the UN mission had dismantled nine of the twelve MINUSMA bases in Mali. MINUSMA has been deployed in the country since 2013 to support the nation’s security against jihadist rebels affiliated with al-Qaida and the Islamic State group, as well as a separatist uprising led by the Tuareg people.

The withdrawal of German troops signifies another step towards the conclusion of the UN peacekeeping mission. The process of dismantling bases and transporting equipment back to respective countries is a complex endeavour that requires careful coordination to ensure the safety of personnel and the preservation of peace and security in the region.

The UN and its partners, including Germany, remain committed to working closely with the Malian government to facilitate a smooth transition and support the country’s efforts towards long-term stability. The conclusion of the peacekeeping mission marks a significant milestone in Mali’s trajectory, highlighting the need for continued international cooperation and support to address the remaining challenges faced by the nation.

As the UN mission in Mali winds down, the focus will shift towards strengthening the capacity of the Malian security forces and promoting sustainable development in the country. The international community will continue to monitor the situation in Mali closely and explore avenues for collaboration to ensure lasting peace and prosperity for its people.

 

Source: Africa News

Army Drone Strike Accidentally Hits Nigerian Village, Killing Dozens of Civilians

Army Drone Strike Accidentally Hits Nigerian Village, Killing Dozens Of Civilians

In a tragic incident, an army drone strike mistakenly targeted a village in northwestern Nigeria, resulting in the deaths of numerous civilians who were celebrating a Muslim festival. The strike occurred on Sunday in Tudun Biri village, located in Kaduna State, and local authorities, the military, and residents confirmed the civilian casualties on Monday.

Nigeria’s armed forces frequently rely on air strikes to combat bandit militias in the country’s northwest and northeast regions, where a 14-year conflict involving jihadists has been ongoing. However, the army did not provide specific details or a death toll for the drone strike in Tudun Biri village. Residents, on the other hand, reported that dozens of people were killed and wounded as a result of the incident.

Kaduna State governor Uba Sani expressed his condolences and ordered an investigation into the tragic event, stating, “Muslim faithful observing Maulud were mistakenly killed and many others injured following a military drone attack targeting terrorists and bandits.” The governor’s directive aims to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident and hold those responsible accountable.

Idris Dahiru, a resident of Tudun Biri village, shared the devastating impact of the strike, saying, “We buried 85 people that were killed in the bomb attack.” He revealed that more than 60 injured individuals were receiving medical treatment in hospitals. Dahiru recounted the harrowing experience, explaining how he was inside his house when the first bomb hit and rushed to the scene to help the affected individuals, only for a second bomb to be dropped.

Husseini Ibrahim, another resident who lost 13 members of his immediate family in the attack, mourned the loss and emphasised the innocence of the victims. He stated, “They included my children and those of my brothers, seven boys and six girls. We buried the victims today.”

The strike primarily affected women and children, according to resident Hassan Ma’aruf, who shared images purportedly showing the bodies of the victims. However, the authenticity of these images could not be immediately verified.

Militia gangs, locally known as bandits, have long plagued parts of northwest Nigeria, operating from forest bases and engaging in activities such as looting and kidnapping residents for ransom. In the northeast, jihadists have faced setbacks but continue to pose a threat.

The incident underscores the challenges faced by Nigeria in addressing insecurity within its borders. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has made tackling this issue a priority, aiming to attract foreign investment and ensure the safety and well-being of the country’s population.

Unfortunately, civilian casualties resulting from military operations have occurred in the past. The Nigerian military mistakenly targeted and killed at least 20 fishermen in September 2021, and a 2017 fighter jet strike on a camp housing displaced people led to the deaths of 112 individuals.

Efforts must be made to prevent such tragic incidents from recurring, including improving coordination and ensuring the proper identification of targets. The Nigerian government, in collaboration with the military, must prioritise the protection of civilian lives and work towards lasting peace and security in the country.

 

Source: African News

Chad’s Referendum Campaign Sparks Political Divide Ahead of Constitutional Decision

Chad's Referendum Campaign Sparks Political Divide Ahead Of Constitutional Decision

As Chad’s referendum campaign launched on November 25, the country’s political landscape is becoming increasingly divided, with voters gearing up to decide on a new constitution. Chad’s eight million registered voters will cast their votes on December 17, following a twenty-day campaign period marked by contrasting viewpoints from both sides.

While several opposition parties are calling for a boycott of the vote, arguing that the outcome is predetermined, others are advocating for a “no” vote in favour of transitioning to a federal state. Proponents of federalism believe that a federation could facilitate autonomous development in different regions of the country, considering Chad’s vastness, cultural diversity, and economic disparities.

Brice Mbaïmong, Coordinator of the Front for the No vote in the referendum, expressed support for a federal state, stating, “We believe this is the form best suited to Chad, given the vastness of the country and its cultural, social, and economic diversity. We believe that this is the form of the state that will promote good administration and the economic development of our country.”

On the other hand, those urging citizens to vote “yes” argue in favour of Chad remaining a decentralised unitary state, contending that a federation could potentially further fragment the country. However, the referendum has faced criticism from opposition groups, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and other political parties.

Political analyst Yamingué Bétinbaye highlighted concerns about the process, stating, “We need to restart the process because it is not in line with the national dialogue, which actually provided for two referenda or two votes by the electorate.” Bétinbaye proposed a two-step voting process, with the first vote determining the form of the state—unitary or federal—and the second validating or invalidating the draft constitution based on the chosen form.

The referendum campaign has ignited intense debates and discussions about Chad’s future governance structure. The differing perspectives reflect the complexity of the issue and the aspirations of various segments of the population. As the referendum date approaches, Chad faces the challenge of navigating these divisions and ensuring a transparent and inclusive process.

The outcome of the referendum will have significant implications for Chad’s political future and the distribution of power within the country. It is crucial for the government to address concerns raised by opposition groups and civil society organisations, fostering an environment that encourages dialogue and promotes the participation of all citizens in shaping the nation’s governance system.

Ultimately, the success and legitimacy of the referendum will depend on the transparency of the voting process, the respect for democratic principles, and the inclusivity of decision-making. Chad’s leadership must work towards fostering national unity and consensus-building to navigate this critical phase in the country’s political development.

 

Source: Africa News

German Court Sentences Gambian Death Squad Member to Life Imprisonment for Crimes Against Humanity

German Court Sentences Gambian Death Squad Member To Life Imprisonment For Crimes Against Humanity

In a historic verdict, a German court has sentenced a member of a Gambian death squad to life imprisonment for crimes against humanity and other charges. The trial marked the first prosecution in Germany for abuses committed under former President Yahya Jammeh’s regime.

The individual, known to the media as Bai Lowe but identified as Bai L. by the German justice system, was found guilty of crimes against humanity, murder, and attempted murder in three cases. The court in Celle, located in northern Germany, delivered the verdict following the public prosecutor’s request.

The 48-year-old man was specifically convicted of participating in murders that took place in Gambia between 2003 and 2006, including the killing of AFP correspondent Deyda Hydara on December 16, 2004.

Bai Lowe served as a driver for the “Junglers,” a Gambian death squad established by the government in the mid-1990s to intimidate or eliminate opposition figures.

During a hearing in October 2022, the defendant denied any involvement in the crimes, as stated by his lawyer. The defence pleaded for his acquittal, but the court rejected these arguments.

Germany’s recognition of universal jurisdiction for serious crimes under international law enabled the trial to take place on its soil, regardless of the accused’s nationality or the location of the alleged crimes. The country has previously convicted individuals for atrocities committed during the Syrian civil war.

The specific charges against Bai Lowe included involvement in the attempted murder of lawyer Ousman Sillah, the murder of Deyda Hydara, the attempted murder of Ida Jagne and Nian Sarang Jobe (who worked for the newspaper co-founded by Hydara), and the murder of former Gambian soldier Dawda Nyassi.

Deyda Hydara himself claimed to have falsely accused himself of acts he did not commit, aiming to expose the cruelty of Yahya Jammeh’s regime (1994-2017). However, the court deemed this line of defence implausible, and the civil parties expressed their disappointment with Bai Lowe’s statement.

The verdict in Celle serves as a warning to others who committed crimes under the dictatorship, according to the victims’ relatives and NGOs. Reed Brody, a lawyer with the International Commission of Jurists working with the victims, stated, “The long arm of justice has caught up with Bai Lowe in Germany, as it is already catching up with Yahya Jammeh’s henchmen around the world and will hopefully also catch up with Jammeh himself.”

Parallel proceedings against Jammeh’s collaborators are ongoing outside of Gambia, including the trial of Ousman Sonko, former Minister of the Interior, in Switzerland since 2017 for crimes against humanity. Additionally, Michael Sang Correa, another individual associated with Jammeh, is set to stand trial in the United States.

While Yahya Jammeh resides in Equatorial Guinea, a country with no extradition agreement with Gambia, the Gambian government has initiated efforts to address the crimes committed during his 22-year dictatorship. In collaboration with the Organization of West African States, Gambia announced plans to establish a tribunal to prosecute the crimes of the former dictator.

The pursuit of justice for the victims of the Jammeh regime remains a significant challenge for President Adama Barrow, who assumed office following a surprise victory in the 2016 presidential election.

 

Source: Africa News

Ugandan Woman, Safina Namukwaya, Becomes Africa’s Oldest New Mother at 70, Gives Birth to Twins

Ugandan Woman, Safina Namukwaya, Becomes Africa's Oldest New Mother At 70, Gives Birth To Twins

In a remarkable milestone, Safina Namukwaya, a 70-year-old woman from Uganda, has become Africa’s oldest new mother after giving birth to twins. The boy and girl twins were delivered prematurely via cesarean section at 31 weeks and are currently in stable condition, receiving care in incubators.

Namukwaya expressed her joy upon learning about her pregnancy with twins during a routine checkup. “When I had a checkup, they told me I had twins, and I was very happy,” she shared.

The successful pregnancy and delivery were made possible through fertility treatment at the Women’s Hospital International and Fertility Centre, where Doctor Edward Tamale Sali supervised Namukwaya’s journey.

“This is an extraordinary achievement, delivering twins to Africa’s oldest mother at 70 years,” stated Dr. Sali, emphasising the significance of this milestone.

Notably, this is Namukwaya’s second delivery in three years, having given birth to a girl in 2020. Dr. Sali highlighted that age should not be the sole factor determining a woman’s ability to bear children. “Age is just a number. A young woman can also die of complications from pregnancy,” he explained. “And an old woman, if she is fit, can also survive.”

Thanks to advancements in medical technology and treatments, women like Namukwaya can now conceive and give birth even after reaching menopause, typically occurring between the ages of 45 to 55.

With the birth of the twins, Namukwaya has achieved the distinction of becoming Africa’s oldest new mother, showcasing the evolving possibilities in reproductive medicine.

This remarkable story serves as a testament to the progress and opportunities available to women who aspire to have children later in life. While it highlights the potential for older women to safely undergo pregnancies with appropriate medical support, it also sparks conversations about the ethical considerations and potential risks associated with advanced maternal age.

Nevertheless, Namukwaya’s journey is a source of inspiration and hope for many, demonstrating that age should not be a limiting factor in pursuing the dream of motherhood.

 

Source: Africa News

Kenyan Government Issues Warning and Evacuation Orders as Floods Claim Over 150 Lives

Kenyan Government Issues Warning And Evacuation Orders As Floods Claim Over 150 Lives

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki has issued a stern warning to residents near Masinga, Kamburu, Kindaruma, Gitaru, and Kiambere Dams along the Tana River in Kenya, urging them to relocate to safer areas due to the escalating risk of floods. The floods have already claimed the lives of over 150 people since last month, and the situation remains critical.

According to official records, more than 100,000 households, comprising approximately 462,160 individuals, have been displaced by the floods. The rising water levels in the dams, coupled with the continuous heavy rainfall, pose a significant threat of devastating floods that could disproportionately affect communities residing near these dams.

“To safeguard lives and ensure the well-being of all residents residing in close proximity to Masinga, Kamburu, Kindaruma, Gitaru, and Kiambere Dams, the government is taking measures to evacuate all individuals to secure locations,” warned Kindiki in a statement on Sunday.

Kindiki emphasised the importance of citizens heeding safety directives issued by relevant authorities, including the Meteorological Department. Remaining vigilant and following the guidance provided can help prevent further loss of life.

The government has pledged to inform individuals who are likely to be affected by the flooding. Their data and information have been gathered to facilitate a smooth evacuation process, should the need arise. Suitable relocation sites have been identified where evacuated residents will be accommodated until the rains subside. The government will ensure the availability of essential supplies, including food, non-food items, medicines, and other necessities.

Local leaders and administration officials from the national government will work together to execute the evacuation plan, prioritising the safety and well-being of those affected. The government remains committed to closely monitoring the situation brought about by the El Niño rains across various regions of the country. Swift and efficient responses to any emergencies that may arise will be a top priority.

During this challenging period, the safety and welfare of Kenyan citizens are of utmost importance. The government urges everyone to stay informed, remain cautious, and cooperate with authorities to mitigate the impact of the floods and protect lives.