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    Latest news in Africa: Fighting in Sudan, floods in Congo, refugees stranded on Red Sea shore. Polio vaccines destroyed. Court case in Nigeria and UK.

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    Sudan: Fighting in Khartoum as mediators seek end to Sudan conflict

    Fighting could be heard in south Khartoum on Sunday as envoys from Sudan’s warring parties were in Saudi Arabia for talks that international mediators hope will bring an end to a three-week old conflict that has killed hundreds and triggered an exodus.

    Congo: Corpses pile up after nearly 200 killed in Congo floods

    At least 176 dead bodies have been found in and around two villages in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo that were flooded on Thursday, provincial governor Theo Ngwabidje Kasi said on Friday.

    Sudan: Thousands fleeing Sudan are stuck on Red Sea shore

    Thousands of people fleeing clashes in Sudan are stuck on the Red Sea coast without access to food, water or shelter, according to the United Nations.

    Sudan: Sudanese say warring factions ignore their plight as hardships grow

    Sudanese civilians caught in the middle of a conflict between government forces and rebels in the country’s south say the warring factions are ignoring their plight as more and more people are forced to flee their homes due to the violence.

    Sudan: UNICEF: More than 1 million polio vaccines destroyed in Sudan

    More than 1 million polio vaccines have been destroyed in Sudan due to improper storage conditions, according to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

    South Africa: South African rand falls as U.S. banking fears boost safe-haven demand

    The South African rand fell against the U.S. dollar on Friday as fears of potential banking problems in the United States drove investors towards safe-haven assets.

    Nigeria: Nigeria begins hearing presidential election challenge next week

    The Nigerian Judiciary has announced that it will hear a challenge to the result of the country’s presidential election next week, as opposition parties continue to contest the results.

    United Kingdom: UK court jails Nigerian senator for nine years for kidney-harvesting plot

    A Nigerian politician, his wife, and a doctor were jailed by a London court on Friday for trafficking a street trader from Lagos to Britain to illegally harvest his kidney for a transplant for their seriously ill daughter.

    Sudan: MTN Sudan’s network down as fighting hits power supplies

    The Sudanese arm of Africa’s biggest mobile operator MTN Group said on Friday its network was down after fighting in the country led to fuel shortages and power cuts.

    Kenya: Kenya sets up inquiry into cult deaths, leader to remain in prison

    Kenyan President William Ruto has appointed a commission of inquiry into the deaths of more than 100 people believed to have starved themselves to death, while a court ordered that their alleged cult leader remain in prison.

    Mali: Mali sets date for delayed vote, saying it’s true to its word on democracy

    Mali’s government has set a date for the country’s delayed election, saying that it is committed to upholding democratic principles and ensuring free and fair elections.

    Uganda: Ugandan shilling stable amid thin activity

    The Ugandan shilling remained stable against the U.S. dollar on Friday, with traders reporting thin activity in the market.

    Refugees: UN refugee agency calls on governments not to return people to Sudan

    The United Nations refugee agency has called on governments around the world not to return people to Sudan, citing ongoing violence and instability in the country.

    Sudan: Veteran soldier leads Sudan’s army against rival general

    Sudan’s veteran soldier General Fathi has taken over as leader of the country’s army, as it faces off against rebel forces led by rival general Abdel Aziz al-Hilu.

    Burkina Faso: Burkina Faso interim leader hails Russia as a strategic ally

    Burkina Faso’s interim leader has declared Russia a strategic ally of the country, as the two nations seek to strengthen ties amid growing instability in the region.
    African Boulevard News – (2023-05-07)

    Nigeria: Senator’s UK Arrest Sheds Light on Father-Daughter Bond and Political Turmoil, Sparks Empathy

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    Abuja, Nigeria – (African Boulevard News) – Senator Ike Ekweremadu, the former Deputy Senate President of Nigeria, recently made headlines when he was arrested in the United Kingdom (UK) on charges of money laundering. However, the story takes a different turn when viewed through the lens of the enduring bond between a father and daughter, Louis Achi writes.

    Ekweremadu’s UK travails revolve around the contradictions that have long defined the Nigerian state. At the heart of the story is his relationship with his daughter, who has been seriously ill with lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease. This has made the senator an emotional wreck, as he copes with the challenges of his daughter’s illness and the weight of the corruption allegations.

    In a statement, Ekweremadu said, “I have been inundated with messages from far and near over the arrest and detention of my daughter’s husband in the UK, especially given that the matter is related to an ongoing investigation on political adversaries of the ruling party in Nigeria.”

    He went on to say, “The family is dealing with a challenge that is enough for any parent to handle, particularly with the delicate health of the daughter at this time. We thank Nigerians and other good-hearted people across the world who have reached out to us.”

    The senator’s predicament highlights the human toll of Nigeria’s political landscape and its battle against corruption. It also demonstrates the burden that many fathers carry when their children are ill. Despite being a seasoned politician, Ekweremadu remains a doting father, struggling to come to terms with his daughter’s predicament.

    In a country where corruption, tribalism, and nepotism are all too common, Ekweremadu’s arrest on money laundering charges is not an isolated case. Many in Nigeria view the Senator’s arrest as an indication of the government’s fight against corruption, which has targeted many from the opposition party.

    However, for Ekweremadu and his family, the situation is much more personal. The senator’s ongoing tribulations highlight the importance of family, the challenges of being a parent, and the need for greater empathy in Nigeria’s political landscape.

    In conclusion, Ekweremadu’s UK arrest and his daughter’s illness shed a light on the complexities of Nigerian politics and their impact on individuals and families. It highlights the importance of empathy and understanding in the face of personal challenges, and the need for a more compassionate approach to politics.

    Nigeria: Senator Kwankwaso’s Vision for a Sustained Peace in Kano Calls for Multi-Dimensional Collaborative Efforts

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    Abuja, Nigeria – (African Boulevard News) – The former Governor of Kano State, Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, and presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party, has expressed optimism about the prospects of peace and stability in Kano State, emphasizing that it will take the concerted efforts and collaborative actions of all stakeholders to actualize this ideal.

    In an interview with African Boulevard News, Kwankwaso spoke about the need for comprehensive peace-building initiatives that will cater to the needs of all segments of Kano society. According to him, the key to a sustained peace in Kano is through continuous dialogue, consultation, and the creation of an enabling environment to foster mutual understanding.

    “Towards a Sustained Peace in Kano” is not just a lofty dream but a necessary reality that requires a multi-dimensional approach that cuts across security, social, economic, and political spheres, he noted.

    The former Governor also highlighted the importance of integrating traditional and religious leaders into the peace-building process, as they are crucial in bridging the gap between different groups and promoting peaceful coexistence.

    Kwankwaso emphasized the need to address the root causes of insecurity and violent conflicts in Kano, which he identified as poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to basic social services. According to him, addressing these issues will help to decrease the prevalence of violence and enhance the chances of a sustained peace in Kano.

    Responding to a question on the role of the media in peace-building, Kwankwaso stated that the media has a significant part to play in promoting peace, by providing accurate and objective information to the public, avoiding sensationalism and bias and projecting the positive aspects of Kano society.

    In conclusion, Kwankwaso stressed that the journey towards peace in Kano will be a long and challenging one, but with a united front, the prospects for a sustained peace are high.

    “Towards a Sustained Peace in Kano” is not a one-time event but a continuous process, and it is incumbent on all stakeholders to play their part in ensuring that this cherished dream becomes a reality. The responsibility is not just on the shoulders of the government but all individuals, institutions, and organizations should collaborate and work together to achieve this goal.

    Nigeria: Joe Ajaero-led NLC’s Destructive Tendencies Threaten Airline Operations and Economic Stability

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    Abuja, Nigeria – (African Boulevard News) – Air Peace, one of Nigeria’s largest airline operators, has recently faced disruption in its operations due to the actions of the Joe Ajaero-led Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC). The labour union’s thoughtless and destructive tendencies in the name of activism have caught the attention of industry experts, who predict that the NLC’s leadership will soon lose the people’s confidence if it continues on this path.

    The NLC’s actions have caused significant disruptions to Air Peace’s operations, forcing the airline to cancel several flights and delay others. The labour union has been protesting against the airline’s decision to outsource some of its services, a move that the company claims is necessary to cut costs and remain competitive in a challenging market.

    Air Peace’s Chief Operating Officer, Mrs. Toyin Olajide, said in a statement that the company had no choice but to outsource some of its services to remain viable. “We understand the concerns of our employees and the NLC, but we have to make difficult decisions to ensure the long-term sustainability of our business,” she said.

    However, the NLC has refused to back down, claiming that the outsourcing of services is a move by the airline to exploit its workers and increase profits. The labour union has gone as far as picketing the airline’s offices and disrupting its operations, causing immense inconvenience to passengers.

    Industry experts have criticized the NLC’s actions, calling them unwarranted and destructive. They have also warned that such disruptions could lead to the loss of jobs and revenue for the airline, which could have a ripple effect on the Nigerian economy.

    Dr. Ayo Teriba, an economist and CEO of Economic Associates, said in an interview, “The disruptions caused by the NLC’s actions could have far-reaching consequences for the airline and the economy as a whole. It’s important for all parties involved to come to a peaceful resolution and prevent further damage.”

    In conclusion, the unwarranted disruption of Air Peace’s operations by the NLC is a cause for concern. While the labour union has a right to protest, it should not do so at the expense of the airline’s operations and the Nigerian economy. It’s time for all parties involved to come to the negotiating table and find a peaceful resolution to the issue.

    Nigeria: Golden Eaglets’ come-from-behind win propels them to quarterfinals of U17 AFCON with resilience and attacking prowess on display.

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    Abuja, Nigeria – (African Boulevard News) – It was a thrilling encounter at the Stade Mohamed-Hamlaoui in Constantine, Algeria, as Nigeria’s Golden Eaglets showed their resilience and attacking prowess, securing a hard-fought 3-2 victory over South Africa in the U17 AFCON. Here are five talking points from the match:

    1. Eaglets show fighting spirit

    The Golden Eaglets showed their fighting spirit in the game, coming back from two goals down to seal the victory. Despite conceding two goals in the first half, coach Fatai Amoo’s side never gave up and kept fighting till the end.

    1. South Africa’s missed chances

    South Africa had several opportunities to extend their lead in the first half but failed to take their chances. This proved costly as Nigeria fought back in the second half to secure the victory.

    1. Wisdom Ubani’s brace

    Wisdom Ubani was the hero for Nigeria as he scored two goals to level the scores before the Eaglets secured the winner through Benjamin Ihekaenyi. Ubani’s brace was crucial in turning the game in Nigeria’s favor.

    1. Nigeria’s attacking prowess

    Nigeria’s attacking prowess was on full display, as they created several chances throughout the game. The Eaglets’ pace and creativity in attack proved too much for South Africa to handle.

    1. Golden Eaglets’ U17 AFCON campaign back on track

    After losing their opening game to Guinea, Nigeria’s U17 AFCON campaign was in danger of derailing. However, the victory over South Africa has put their campaign back on track, with a chance to qualify for the semi-finals still in their hands.

    Coach Fatai Amoo expressed his delight with the victory, stating, “We are happy with the comeback victory. The boys showed great character, and we hope to build on this performance in our next game.”

    The U17 AFCON tournament continues with Nigeria set to face Cameroon in their next match. The Golden Eaglets will be hoping to maintain their momentum and secure another victory to progress to the semi-finals.

    UK: King’s Coronation Creates Multicultural Hub, Inspires Other Nations and Kingdoms to Follow Suit

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    Diaspora, Africa – (African Boulevard News) – The coronation of Charles as the new monarch of the United Kingdom has transformed the region into a multi-cultural hub. The new king has made momentous strides in uniting the diverse population of his realm, and this has set a precedent in the region.

    In his coronation speech, King Charles III emphasized his vision of a more unified realm where diversity is celebrated and people of all cultures are welcomed. He recognized the importance of inclusion and multiculturalism in promoting peace and progress. “We are all one people, irrespective of our cultural backgrounds. We must work together to build a better future for ourselves and our children,” he said.

    Charles’s coronation has been a game-changer for his kingdom. He has opened up the palace to leaders from different ethnic groups, and he has also made a conscious effort to learn about their customs and traditions. This has helped to build trust and foster a sense of togetherness.

    The new monarch has also taken steps to promote cultural exchange among his subjects. He has organized festivals and cultural events that showcase the different traditions of his people. This has helped to break down barriers and promote a greater understanding of one another.

    Charles’s coronation has not only brought about positive changes within his kingdom but has also inspired neighboring realms to follow suit. Leaders from other Nations & kingdoms have praised Charles for his vision and leadership and have expressed their willingness to collaborate with him in promoting a more inclusive and diverse region.

    According to Hamza Mohammed, a cultural analyst, “Charles’s coronation signals a new era of multiculturalism in the region. His efforts to bring people of different cultures together are commendable, and they set an example for other leaders to follow. We need more leaders like him who value diversity and inclusivity.”

    In conclusion, Charles’s coronation has set a new standard for leadership in the region. His commitment to promoting diversity and multiculturalism has brought about positive changes within his realm and has inspired neighboring kingdoms to do the same. Charles’s coronation has shown that a united and inclusive community is a strong community, and it is a model that other regions can emulate.

    Mali: Citizens to Vote on New Constitution, Opponents Call for Boycott

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    Bamako, Mali – (African Boulevard News) – The Malian government has recently announced that the country will hold a referendum next month, offering citizens the opportunity to vote on whether to accept or reject a new draft of the constitution, which has been met with resistance from political opponents.

    Originally scheduled for March, the long-awaited vote was postponed after a military coup sparked uproar across the country, leading to widespread instability and uncertainty. However, the new government has now set a new date for June, in the hope of putting an end to the ongoing political crisis.

    The proposed draft of the constitution is intended to address some of the key issues that have been at the heart of Mali’s political unrest in recent years, including increased power for regional governments, stronger protections for human rights and the environment, and greater accountability for political leaders.

    Speaking about the forthcoming referendum, President Bah N’Daw said, “We are committed to delivering a constitution that reflects the aspirations of our people. We believe that the proposed changes will provide a stronger foundation for our democracy, and will help us to build a better future for all Malians.”

    However, the new draft of the constitution has already faced significant opposition from some political groups, who argue that it fails to address key concerns around national identity and security. Many opposition parties have called for a boycott of the referendum, arguing that the new constitution is simply a way for the government to consolidate its power and limit democratic freedoms.

    Despite these concerns, the Malian government has been working hard to engage with citizens and encourage participation in the referendum. As part of this process, the government has launched a series of public consultations and awareness campaigns, aimed at explaining the proposed changes and encouraging participation in the voting process.

    The government’s commitment to holding a referendum on the new constitution has been welcomed by many political analysts and activists, who see it as a crucial step towards resolving the ongoing crisis in Mali. However, there are still concerns about the potential for violence and unrest, particularly in areas where jihadist groups are known to operate.

    As Mali prepares for the upcoming referendum, it is clear that there are still many challenges to be overcome. However, the government’s commitment to addressing the concerns of its citizens and building a stronger, more inclusive society offers hope for the future of this troubled nation.

    Kenya: Give African Leaders the Respect they Deserve, says President William Ruto at IGW African Leadership Ceremony

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    Nairobi, Kenya – (African Boulevard News) – Kenyan President William Ruto has called for respect of African leaders on the global stage after they were allegedly mistreated and treated like children by world leaders during the US-Africa Summit group meetings with Biden and Blinken. Speaking at the 2023 IGW African Leadership Ceremony in Nairobi with Mo Ibrahim, President Ruto emphasized that African leaders are elected by their people and deserve the same level of respect as other global leaders.

    With Africa being the second-largest continent in the world, President Ruto pointed out that the continent’s leaders should not be taken for granted and treated like children by other world leaders. In his words, “We demand equal treatment and respect for Africa as a whole on the global stage. We are not here to be patronized; we are here to be respected.”

    The Kenyan President asked that African leaders be included in decision-making processes regarding global issues such as climate change, terrorism, and economic development, as they are directly affected by them. He added that African leaders must take the lead in solving African problems, while the international community should support them in every way possible.

    The call for respect and inclusion was supported by Mo Ibrahim, the renowned Sudanese-British billionaire and philanthropist, who called on African leaders to work together and not allow external forces to divide them. He also emphasized that African leaders must work towards good governance, democracy, and accountability to improve their people’s lives.

    In conclusion, President Ruto’s call for respect and inclusion for African leaders is essential in the global community. African leaders must be treated as equals and given the respect they deserve on the global stage. They must also take the lead in solving their problems while being supported by the international community. The international community, in turn, must not take African leaders for granted and treat them like children. Rather, they must engage and collaborate with African leaders to find solutions to global problems and improve the lives of Africans.

    Africa: Odion Ighalo Sees Another Major Trophy Slip Away as Al Hilal Lose AFC Champions League Final

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    Diaspora, Africa – (African Boulevard News) – Nigerian striker Odion Ighalo has suffered another major trophy disappointment as his team, Al Hilal, lost the AFC Champions League to Japanese giants Urawa Red Diamonds in a closely fought battle at the Saitama Stadium 2002. Urawa Red Diamonds won 1-0 in the second leg of the final to secure a 2-1 aggregate victory.

    Ighalo, who joined the Saudi Arabian club in January, had been hoping to add an AFC Champions League title to his impressive trophy cabinet, which includes the Africa Cup of Nations and the Chinese FA Cup. However, the former Manchester United striker was unable to guide his team to victory, as they were outplayed by Urawa Red Diamonds in both legs of the final.

    The Japanese side dominated the first leg in Riyadh, winning 1-0 thanks to a goal from Brazilian forward Rafael Silva. Al Hilal could not find an equalizer, despite having a man advantage for much of the second half.

    In the second leg, Urawa Red Diamonds once again started strongly, with Yuki Muto scoring the only goal of the game in the 17th minute. Al Hilal tried to mount a comeback, but Urawa Red Diamonds held on for a hard-fought victory.

    The defeat will be a bitter pill to swallow for Ighalo, who had made a significant impact since joining Al Hilal. The Nigerian striker had scored five goals in the competition, including a crucial goal in the quarter-finals against Persepolis.

    Despite the disappointment, Ighalo took to social media to congratulate Urawa Red Diamonds on their victory. “Congratulations to Urawa Red Diamonds for winning the AFC Champions League. Well done to my teammates for fighting until the end. We gave it our all but it wasn’t to be,” he tweeted.

    The defeat marks the second time Ighalo has missed out on a major trophy this season, having lost the Saudi Professional League title to Al Ahli earlier this month. However, the 32-year-old will be hoping to bounce back in the upcoming season and help his team secure silverware.

    The loss also marks a disappointing end to Al Hilal’s campaign, who were hoping to add a third AFC Champions League title to their trophy cabinet. The Saudi Arabian club last won the competition in 2019.

    Overall, the AFC Champions League final was a thrilling encounter, with Urawa Red Diamonds deserving winners after a dominant display over both legs.

    Drc: Deadly Floods Wipe Out Entire Village, Dozens Missing and Hundreds Injured

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    Kinshasa, DRC – (African Boulevard News) – The Democratic Republic of Congo is experiencing one of the deadliest floods in its history as reports confirm that at least 176 villagers have been killed in the eastern regions near Lake Kivu. The disaster that happened in Nyamukubi, a village in the Kalehe territory south of the province of South Kivu, has left hundreds of people missing and many more injured.

    As bodies were pulled from the mud, some residents estimated that three-quarters of homes in the village of Nyamukubi were destroyed. According to the local authorities, heavy rains that lasted for several days caused the nearby rivers to overflow, and the floods swept everything in their path.

    “The dwellings have disappeared, and the inhabitants did not have time to escape,” said Juvenal Munubo, one of the survivors. He added, “The floods have also destroyed the Nyamukubi bridge, making it difficult to reach the village.” The government has sent rescue teams to search for survivors and recover some of the missing bodies.

    Several other towns and villages in South Kivu, North Kivu, and Ituri, the three provinces bordering Lake Kivu, have been affected by the floods. The authorities fear that the death toll may increase as more bodies are recovered, and more victims are found. In addition, many people have been rendered homeless, and their properties destroyed.

    The National Bureau of Hydrocarbons and Mines explained that the situation might worsen due to the high risk of landslides, adding that the growing population and unregulated construction have led to environmental degradation in the region. The disaster highlights the urgent need for the government and environmental agencies to develop and implement measures to prevent similar disasters.

    The United Nations has provided assistance and aid to the affected communities, including food, shelter, and medical supplies. “We are working to ensure that the Congolese government and humanitarian organizations have the resources they need to respond to this deadly crisis,” said David McLachlan-Karr, the Humanitarian Coordinator in Congo.

    The devastating floods in Congo have left many families grieving and struggling to cope with their losses. It is a stark reminder of how vulnerable many African nations are to natural disasters. The government and environmental groups must work together to address the root causes of these disasters and develop ways to prevent them.