Murtala
Sierra Leone improves in infant mortality
Sierra Leone has improved in infant mortality cases according to Save the Children- World Motherhood index 2012 report. The West Africa country described as one of the worst places to have a child moved from the bottom to twelve places up in the tier 111 of the least developed countries. - Of the 165 countries surveyed, Sierra Leone is ranked 30th position in the least developed countries category beating 12 others to the bottom including Mali, Yemen, Afghanistan, Chad, DR Congo, Eritrea, Sudan and South Sudan. According to the study, Niger is currently the worst place on earth to have a child with Afghanistan following closely.
Eight out of the ten worst countries in the world to have a …Sierra Leone: Girl 13, dedicates life to others
Annette Sam, now 13 was diagnosed with a hole in the heart in 2006. His father a teacher by then could not afford funds to treat the young Annette. Nearly at the point of death, a local charity organization Pikin Bizness gave Annette another chance to life. - Annette was flown to Germany in 2007 where she undergoes a successful surgery. Annette and his family now reside in the United States. In appreciation for life, the young girl who was given a chance to life has decided to dedicate her life to help others in one of the world’s poorest countries to enjoy life.
Inspired by her story, Annette set up the Annette Sam Heart Foundation in the United States. He has been on record to h…Sierra Leone attains Guinness World Record
The small West African nation of Sierra Leone is the latest African country to scoop the enviable Guinness World Record. Sierra Leone won the award following an attempt by a synchronized traditional 'Sampa dance'. The 'Sampa Dance' which was performed at the National stadium on the country's 51st Independence anniversary brought together over one thousand dancers. - The record attempt was verified by an official Guinness World Records adjudicator who confirmed that with 1,002 dancers all successfully completing the dance, a new world record had been set.
The dancers which include mostly school pupils from across the country and other professionals were camped and…Sierra Leone: Army dismisses Al shabab threat
A senior military officer attached to the Sierra Leone ministry of defense has said that the recent threat by Al Qaeda link Somalia Islamist group Al Shabab does not come as a surprise to them. - The officer who was speaking on condition of anonymity to AfricaNews at the Defense headquarter in Freetown said the threat by Al Shabab is just part of their media propaganda strategy to scare of opposing forces.
He said Sunday’s threat by Al Shabab could not be underestimated but the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) will go ahead with planned deployments to the trouble East African nation of Somalia.
The officer who noted that he is not speaking on behalf of the army told …Al Shabab warns Sierra Leone
Somalia's Islamist group Al Shabab has warned Sierra Leone not to send troops to Somalia to support the African Union forces. Al Shabab said on Sunday that 1f the government of Sierra Leone fails to heed to their call they will collect more bodies. - “We, as the Mujahidin in Somalia tell the government and the people of Sierra Leone not to dispatch their boys to Somalia otherwise they will collect more bodies from here as failed Kenyans do.” A report from www.raxanreeb.com quoted Sheikh Hudeyfa in a statement from an Al Shabab run radio.
“We will fight them as we fought against the crusaders of Kenyans, AMISOM and the Christian Ethiopians.” He vowed,’…Ghana’s former president receives award
The Leon H. Sullivan Foundation (LHSF) in Washington, USA will on Thursday award Ghana's former president John Kufour for his efforts at solving the problems facing Africa. The LHSF seeks to empower underprivileged people worldwide by promoting the principles of self-help and social responsibility. - Hope Sullivan Masters, President and CEO of the Leon H. Sullivan Foundation said: “This is a tremendous opportunity for worldwide leaders to recognize the unique achievements of those who have developed a collective concern for addressing the problems facing Africa today.”
The former Ghanaian President was quoted to have said that,“As an active supporter of democracy a…S Leone: Amistad hero to be ‘resurrected’
The date was January 1893, a Mende farmer in his mid's was captured in his rice farm in Southern Sierra Leone and sold to Spanish slave traders near Sulima. Sengbe Pieh was later transported to Cuba via the Atlantic Ocean and sold at an auction along with some other 48 others. - Jose Ruiz, his slave master and sugar farmer placed Pieh and the other Sierra Leoneans aboard his ship, which he called Amistad, meaning ‘friendship’ in Spanish for a short trip to his plantation. On the third day at sea, Pieh managed to break his chain with the help of a nail and release his companions and armed them with knives. A captain was killed, the rest of the small crewmembers were held capt…Interesting places to visit in Sierra Leone
Historic sites are still vividly seen in Sierra Leone. They stood the test of time, they survived the civil war. These historical sites are among the rarest in the world. A hot spot for tourists before the war, Sierra Leone, the small West African nation is rich in history. Archaeologist's states that the country was inhabited over 2,500 ago by successive movements from other parts of Africa before it became a crown colony in 1808. - The Portuguese explorer Pedro da Cintra named it, Serra de Lećo meaning Lion Mountain in Portuguese because of its mountains shaped like lions forms.
Sierra Leone is also rich in minerals, possessing the most treasured minerals resources in the world inclu…Exclusive interview with Reginald Boltman
Hector Reginald Sylvanus Boltman is the only surviving member that was part of the "Founding Fathers" delegation that attended the constitutional conference in Lancaster House in 1960, which later led to Sierra Leone's Independence a year later. Boltman, 84, served as a soldier in the Colonial Army-The Royal West African Frontier Force for six years before he retired as a sergeant Education Instructor Grade 1 in 1953. - On leaving the Army, Boltman served three years in the civil service from 1954 to 1957. He later joined active politics, served as Sierra Leone Ambassador to the Republic of Liberia, with multiple accreditations to Ivory Coast and later High Commissioner to the…Sierra Leone: Former leader appeals for help
He became the world's youngest Head of State in April 1992 three days after his 25th birthday following the successful overthrown of former President Joseph Saidu Momoh. Capt. Valentine Esegragbo Melvin Strasser presented himself as "The Redeemer", promised reforms and to end the country's civil war. - His National Provisional Ruling Council (NPRC) regime enjoys the support of locals and the international community. Under his administration, he instituted a general cleaning exercise every last Saturday of the month, the national football team made it to the Nation’s cup for the first and perhaps the only time, Sierra Leone regained its position among nations again.…Sierra Leone: War victims get support
A 40 feet container containing medical supplies has been officially handed over to the Bo Government hospital on Monday. The Leon H. Sullivan Foundation said the donation is the first of a series of humanitarian shipment to the former war-torn nation. - Speaking during the handing over ceremony of the medical supplies, then minister of Foreign Affairs who is now the minister of Health and Sanitation Hon. Zainab Hawa Bangura thanked the Sullivan Foundation and Hollywood veteran actor and philanthropist Isaiah Washington for the gesture and expressed hope that the donation will benefit those in need.
Minister Bangura recalled that she was very instrumental in the decision to grant Isaiah W…Sierra Leone commits troops to Ivory Coast
Sierra Leone's Armed Forces (RSLAF) confirmed they will soon deploy troops to Ivory Coast, a third country in the Mano River Union. A press release from the Joint Forces Command reads: "On the situation in Ivory Coast, the Commander of Joint Force disclosed that RSLAF is expected to deploy peacekeepers once the ECOWAS military force deployment is finalized during the Chiefs of Defense staff's meeting in Mali." - The political deadlock in the West African nation of Ivory Coast have left the region divided on whether to remove Incumbent President Laurent Gbagbo by force or continue with peaceful negotiations. Despite international pressure Gbagbo continues to maintain his g…Sierra Leoneans remember January 6
Freetown witnessed the worst atrocities in human history exactly 12 years ago when rebels of the Revolutionary United Front (RUF) and rebellious soldier invaded the capital. The invasion lasted for a week and few days but the suffering was untold. Hundreds were amputated, a quarter of the capital was burnt down and many more were raped. - Over three thousand people were killed.
AfricaNews' reporter who came very close to death reminisces: “I never imagine this will happen in my life time. Part of my family flees for safety in the West end of Freetown. Myself, my mother, elder brother had to stay behind. I was always sure that the ECOMOG forces would be able to protect the city …S Leone: Prison boss fired over jail break
Sierra Leone's Vice President Alhaji Samuel Sam- Sumana has fired the Director of Prisons Moses Showers following the dramatic escaped of some 19 hardcore criminals last weekend. Alhaji Sam-Sumana visited the prison accompanied by the Defense minister Paolo Conteh and the Chief Justice Umu Hawa Tejan Jalloh described the incident as a 'disgrace.' - “The prison officers have disappointed this nation. At a very critical time when we have worked so hard to put this armed robbers behind bars so that our people will feel safe just for them to again make their way out,” the vice President said during his visit to Pademba prison on Monday.
The vice President said there…Nigeria: President to launch book on facebook
Nigerian President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has announced that he will launch a book based on his personal interaction with Nigerians on the social networking website facebook on December 20th to encourage his people to adopt the culture of reading. - “In pursuance of my desire to encourage a reading culture in Nigeria which I have been committed to from my days as an active academic, I, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, will be presenting a book of my facebook interactions with Nigerians to the public,” the President announced on his official Facebook page on Wednesday.
He went on: “A few Nigerians who have also distinguished themselves in the literary field will also be on hand …Martin Luther King traces DNA to S Leone
Martin Luther King III, son of civil right leader Martin Luther King Jr. and Julius Garvey who is also son of Marcus Garvey are the latest African Americans to trace their DNA root to the Mende people of Sierra Leone. Grey Anatomy star Isaiah Washington became the first African American to trace his root to the Mende and Temne people of Sierra Leone. - Washington became the first African American to receive a Sierra Leonean passport through DNA. Inspired by this discovery, Washington set up an elementary school through his Gondobay Manga Foundation. He has used his personal resources and commits himself to make a better life for the people of Sierra Leone.
The DNA testing of both King a…Sierra Leoneans, Africa’s most generous
They might be one of the poorest people on earth but a new study by Charity Aid has revealed that Sierra Leoneans are the most generous people in Africa. The World Giving Index placed Sierra Leone in the 11th position out of 153 countries for generosity. - According to the group their research was based on a survey asking people if they had donated to charity, volunteered their time or helped a stranger in the last month. The study reveals that 29% of the population of Sierra Leone have given money, 45% have given their time whiles 75% of the population have helped strangers.
However, Australia tops the global list, followed by New Zealand, Canada, Ireland, Switzerland and the United Sta…Naomi Campbell admits receiving diamond
Supermodel Naomi Campbell admits receiving "dirty looking stones" as a gift from unidentified men. Testifying at the war crimes trial of the former Liberian president, the British model said on Thursday she was given a pouch containing small, rough diamonds while in South Africa at a charity dinner. - Campbell said two unidentified men came to her bedroom after she attended a charity dinner with Taylor and then South African President Nelson Mandela in 1997.
She told the UN-backed court in The Hague: "I was sleeping and had a knock at the door that woke me up. Two men were there and they gave me a pouch and said: 'A gift for you'."
"I went back to be…UN court to stream Campbell's trial live
The United Nations-backed Special Court for Sierra Leone has announced on Wednesday that they will stream live proceedings of supermodel Naomi Campbell testimony at the Charles Taylor trial on Thursday to their facility in New England Freetown. - An SMS message from Peter Anderson, Head of Public Affairs section of the Special Court to AfricaNews read: “Special Court - Naomi Campbell will testify tomorrow [Thursday]. Streaming begins 7:30 at courthouse.”
The British catwalk icon is accused of receiving what is tagged as blood diamonds from former Liberian President Charles Ghankay Taylor during a meeting organized by former South African President Nelson Mandela in that countr…S. Leone`s most wanted captured
Sierra Leone's 'most wanted' Gibrila Kamara has been captured alongside eight others in "Operation Relentless". The operation was carried out by agents of the Drug Enforcement Agency with the help of the son of the Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, who acted as one of the agents. - Kamara was implicated almost three years ago as one of the ring leaders in a small cargo plane with over 500kg of cocaine which forcefully landed at Sierra Leone’s International airport. Although arrests were made, Kamara was able to flee the country for an unknown destination until he was reportedly arrested in Liberia. The Sierra Leone Police has earlier placed US$2000 for …Liberia's Charles Taylor leaves The Hague
Former Liberian leader Charles Taylor, who is standing trial at The Hague's International Criminal Court, is being moved to a newly constructed courtroom in nearby Leidschendam. The court is built for the Special Tribunal for Lebanon (STL), the United Nations backed court announced on Thursday. - The last hearing of the Special Court for Sierra Leone (SCSL) in the ICC ended on Wednesday.
According to a press statement from the SCSL, “The move, under a memorandum of understanding between the Special Court and the STL, is an acknowledgement of the increasing scheduling difficulties with the ICC trials.”
It added: “Under the agreement, the Special Court will pay f…S. Leone: Presidents win Leadership Award
Sierra Leone's erstwhile President Ahmad Tejan Kabba and current President Ernest Bai Koroma have jointly been awarded the Africa Price for Transformational Leadership 2010. The Global Center for Leadership conferred the award on them for their rebuilding efforts after the brutal war. - The GCL is a non-governmental organisation which seeks to promote transformational and effective leadership in the continent.
It said in a statement that the two leaders are being recognized in the political category “for their transformational, progressive and responsible leadership, for their commitment to the rule of law, democratic values and respect for human dignity, for upholding constitu…Operation starts at largest iron ore deposit
Operation has officially started at Africa's largest Iron ore deposit after it was shut down some 35 years ago due to difficulties in the price of ore. The Marampa mines which has the largest iron ore deposit in Africa and the third largest in the world is mined among others by the London Mining Company which has its parent body in the UK. - “We are heading for a turnaround in the economy. The significance of this project is immeasurable to the economy. It will create tremendous impact in the economy, employment and will directly raised $4.1 million dollars against 2010 in direct revenues” Mines minister Alpha Khan told the United Nations radio earlier.
Khan said further …UN extols Sierra Leone for relief effort
The United Nation Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has on behalf of his organization commended the government and people of Sierra Leone for their relief effort towards Haiti following the aftermath of an earthquake which left more than two hundred dead and millions homeless in that country. - “On behalf of the United Nations Secretary General and the United Nations family in Sierra Leone, I wish to express our sincere and profound gratitude to the President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, the Foreign Minister, members of the Government, leaders of political parties, civil society organizations, non-governmental organizations, the inter-religious council, the artists, the private sector …ECOWAS boss takes up new posting in 2010
Dr. Mohammed Ibn Chambas has been unanimously appointed as the new Secretary General of the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries. Dr. Chambas, a Ghanaian, has been serving as president of the ECOWAS Commission for close to a decade. He will take up his new posting in March 2010 in Brussels. - The ECOWAS Secretary General beats two other West African for the coveted position. Dr. Chambas will take over from Sir John Kaputin from Papua New Guinea according to ghanabusssinessnews.com
Born 1970 in Ghana and a father of two, Dr. Chambas attended the Mfantsipim School, Cape Coast and Government Secondary School, Tamale. He also holds a degree in Political Science from the University …Today is World Toilet Day
Over 35% of the entire world population does not have proper access to toilet facilities with most of them living in Africa, estimated the World Toilet Organization. It is celebrating World Toilet Day today under the theme: "Toilets for All". The day is to raise awareness about the importance of proper toilet facilities. - World Toilet Day also highlights the sufferings of people who do not have access to basic sanitation system.
According to Liberia WASH Consortium, a recent government led Water and Sanitation sector assessment report (October 2008) revealed that there are only 19,691 family latrines for a population of close to 3.5 million people. This translates to coverage …Nigeria qualify for 2010 World Cup
Nigeria finally secured a spot for the 2010 World Cup after surviving a scare from Kenya thereby becoming the only qualifier for Group B to reach South Africa 2010. Their winning coincides with the country's conclusion of the Under-17 World Cup which FIFA described as successful despite earlier remarks. - "Its God's work,"former Arsenal striker Nwankwo Kanu said, while Yakubu Aiyegbeni, who scored the second goal according to This Day newspaper, praised the collective effort of his team mates in delivering the goods for the country.
"I want to give praise to God and my fellow players for making this happen. It is a collective effort not just we, the goal scorers,…Nigeria: AU approves Special Court for Sudan
African leaders have agreed to set up a Special Court for Sudan's Darfur conflict at a meeting in the Nigerian Federal Capital Abuja. The Hybrid court which differs from the International Criminal Court (ICC) will comprise Sudanese and non Sudanese judges and will prosecute crimes committed in Darfur. - South Africa’s Ex-President Thabo Mbeki told the African Union Peace and Security Council summit that all Sudanese people accepted that crimes were committed in their country during their conflict and the way forward is to try all those that committed crimes in Sudan.
The AU unanimously agreed earlier that they will not recognize the indictment of Sudanese President Oumar Al Bas…Nigeria: Rebels declare permanent truce
The Movement for the Emancipation of Niger-Delta (MEND), the main militant group operating in Southern Nigeria has announced last weekend that they have declared an indefinite ceasefire following President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua's meeting with Ex-militant leader Henry Okah in the West African nation. - MEND spokesperson Jomo Gbomo said the Federal government had demonstrated their readiness to engage in meaningful discussion with every group towards achieving peace in that ‘trouble spot’ region.
"On Tuesday, October 20, 2009, the Federal Government of Nigeria expressed its readiness to engage in serious and meaningful dialogue with every group or individual towards…Nigeria: "Operation Eagle Claw " captures 18
Eighteen people have been arrested and some 800 fraudulent emails have also faced shut down by Nigeria's Economic and Financial Crime Commission in an operation which is titled: Operation Eagle Claw. Farida Waziri head of the country's crime fighting unit has expressed optimism about the operation. - Waziri believed that the operation: “will take Nigeria out of the top 10 list of countries with the highest incidence of fraudulent e-mails."
“We expect that Eagle Claw as conceived will be 100% operational within six months and at full capacity, it will take Nigeria out of the top 10 list of countries with the highest incidence of fraudulent e-mails. ‘' …U-17: Nigeria assures hitch-free tournament
Nigeria President Umaru Yar'Adua has assured that his country will host a hitch-free U-17 World Cup. He said: "Let me assure the world that Nigeria will do everything possible to have a hitch-free tournament.'' The President made this remarks while receiving the Under-17 World Cup trophy in Abuja, Nigeria. - The Under-17 World Cup which is schedule to start on Saturday October 24th has faced sharp criticism by football officials. FIFA at one stage threatens to remove the tournament from that country because of what they described as organisational difficulties.
FIFAVice President, Jack Warner, urged the West African most populace nation earlier to follow the foot step…Guinea’s opposition group strike again
A two days nationwide strike action has started today in Guinea to mourn the death of over 150 unarmed civilians who were killed in an opposing rally against Capt. Moussa Dadis Camara administration. Shops and markets in the capital Conakry were closed and there are few cars on the streets. - A collection of unions have called for two days of strikes after a September 28 rally by tens of thousands of people protesting against the military rulers was quashed by soldiers, killing dozens of people.
Most public and private offices remained closed on Monday morning and the usually bustling streets were largely empty at the start of the working week, Reuters reported.
"The strike has be…Niger ‘worst place to live’
The West African state of Niger is the worst place to live on earth according to an annual United Nations index report. The report said 182 countries were ranked according to 'the quality of life their citizens experienced' including literacy rates, school enrolment and countries economies. - Niger has the world largest uranium deposit a mineral which is use to produce nuclear energy but remains one of the poorest nations on earth. The report said further that life expectancy in Niger was 50 years - approximately 30 years shorter than for those living in Norway. For every dollar earned per person in Niger, $85 was earned in Norway whiles the Democratic Republic of Congo has the poo…Nigeria: Top rebel makes President happy
Ateke Tom one of three militant leaders operating in Southern Nigeria has obey a call by the country's President for militants to embrace his amnesty program by laying down their arms and surrender. "Today, Chief Tom Ateke you have given me my 49th independence anniversary gift and I cherish it so much." - President Yar’Adua said further “…This independence anniversary gift you have given me I cherish very much because of all those things I cherish one of them is peace and security in the Niger Delta.
Tom who had earlier asked for the withdrawal of the Joint Task Force (JTF) from their region as a condition for surrendering on Thursday dropped the ultimatu…Nigeria rebels want Soyinka to mediate
The main militant group in Southern Nigeria, the Movement for the Emancipation of Niger-Delta has named Nobel laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka among three others to negotiate with the government of that country on their behalf. The announcement was made less than a week to the expiration of the amnesty deadline. - MEND has however predicted that unrest will likely continue after Sunday’s deadline.
"Some eminent Nigerians have graciously accepted to dialogue on behalf of the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta, MEND, with the Federal Government of Nigeria whenever the government realizes the need to adopt serious, meaningful dialogue as a means to halting the violent agi…West Africa under threat by drug cartels
South American drug cartels are invading the West African region with the help of local criminal groups to find their way to the European market. Some senior officials in the region have been indicted for the illegal trade including the son of former President Lansana Conte who openly admitted to the illegal business. - Mexican and Colombian drug cartels have expanded their activities to various countries in West Africa including Nigeria where they used local gangs to find safe haven for their onward distribution for the profitable European market, the Cable News Network (CNN) reported on Tuesday.
Burkina Faso in particular has come under the microscope over the last year for its involvem…US rejects Nigeria choice for Ambassador
The United States of America has rejected Tunde Adeniran as the country's ambassador to US. Adeniran was refused as Nigeria's choice for ambassador after his son was arrested last month with two others for alleged gang rape in Baltimore, USA. Washington has since communicated its decision to Abuja. - Neither Adeniran nor the Nigeria’s foreign ministry could issue a statement in this regard as of now but report further indicates that the Nigerian authorities are making frantic effort for the US to reverse the decision, according to the Nigerian Daily Independent newspaper.
In the US, rape is regarded as a serious crime; perpetrators could be slap with longer jail terms.
…S/Leone: Rescue effort ends for capsize boat
Sierra Leone Police has announced that a joint rescue effort which started on Wednesday in a bid to save passengers from a wooden boat with an inscription Tehteh which capsize with over two hundred passengers has ended. Tehteh left Morforce warf, Shenge late on Tuesday heading for Tombo a fishing community in the outskirt of Freetown. - Two hundred and fifty one passengers were recorded in the boat manifest excluding children according to the Sierra Leone Police but the number is believed to be close to 300. Most of the passengers onboard are women and school children who were on their way to Freetown from a holiday in that part of the country.
An official attached to the Sierra Leone Off…“Sierra Leone ripe for investors”
The World Bank and the International Finance Corporation say Sierra Leone is one of the few countries easy to do business there. They said in their "Doing Business 2010" report that the West African country has laws that strengthen investor protections, and enhance access to credit among others. - The report entitled “Doing Business 2010: Reforming through Difficult Times” praised Sierra Leone among countries just emerging from war for creating an easy environment to do business.
The report said: “Some post conflict economies in the region are actively improving the regulatory framework for private sector-led development.” It added that “Liberia, th…Liberia buries last war victims
The remains of hundreds of Liberia's war victims who were brutally killed in Kolokpai village in central Liberia during the war were laid to rest last weekend. The victims were all residents of the village and displaced people who had sought refuge in that village some 15 years ago. - The remains of the victims were taken in wheelbarrows from a cocoa farm and buried in mass grave while church leaders and farmers watched them dropped in a 10ft pit late on Saturday. A group - the Young Women Organized for Sustainable Development (YWOSD) – sponsored the burial. The killings were blamed on rebel forces that overran the nearby main provincial town of Gbarnga. Gbarnga which is situated …Gambia: President pardons jailed journalists
The Gambian President Yaya Jammeh has pardoned six journalists who were jailed for two years each for criticizing him. President Jammeh pardoned the journalists in the spirit of compassion, and in recognition of the holy month of Ramadan, a month of supplication and forgiveness, a press release stated. - The six journalists were all found guilty in August for seditious and defamation of President Jammeh and sentenced to two years.
Gambia is not media friendly; several journalists have reportedly been abused by President Jammeh.
The six journalists were jailed for questioning Jammeh’s declaration that his government was not responsible for the death of a prominent journalist in t…Today is ‘no music day’ in Nigeria
Today September 1st is being observe in the West African state of Nigeria as "No Music Day". A coalition of music stakeholders is requesting broadcast organization in that country not to broadcast music between the hours of 6 am to 6pm and artists are asked not to engage in any musical performance on this day. - The union stated in their press release that their action is geared towards drawing the attention of the world to what they describe as the ‘’intolerable amount of piracy currently devastating the music industry.”
The release stated further “It is worthy to mention that similar groups like, Actors Guild of Nigeria, Association of Nigerian Theatre-…Nigeria dismisses fresh militant threat
Federal defense minister of Nigeria, Major General Godwin Abbe (rtd), has dismissed recent threat by the Movement for Emancipation of Niger Delta (MEND) that they will resume their attacks on September 15th this year, after the end of the 60-day amnesty offer by President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua. - MEND said earlier in their statement that “The ongoing amnesty program by the government of Nigeria seems to have achieved (sic) separating those who still have the zeal to fight for our freedom and those who were in it for money” and that they will resume bombing soon after the amnesty expires.
Abbe cautioned the militants to accept the amnesty offer in the interest of peace befo…West African leaders caution Niger
Foreign ministers from West Africa cautioned the Niger president to respect the rule of law and create an atmosphere for the restoration of democracy in Niger. Nigeria's foreign minister Chief Ojo Maduekwe said the region will not tolerate Niger to destroy democratic gains it has achieved over the years. - In his bid to stay in power at all cost, the Niger President Tanja defied world leaders, regional bodies, donor communities and dissolve his country’s parliament and tampered with the West African country’s constitution.
At the end of the one day meeting of ECOWAS , the leaders agreed through a communiqué that an ad hoc Council convey a Summit of Heads of State and Gov…Ban Ki-Moon worried over Liberia’s security
Ban Ki-Moon has expressed concern over Liberia's security in his latest report to the security Council. He cites rape, unemployment, drug trafficking and the rule of law as posing great threat to gains made by that country in consolidating its peace. - Ban Ki-moon statement coincides with a visiting US congressional delegation who are in that country to review progress in Liberia’s development agenda and to strengthen bilateral relationship between both countries according to an Executive Mansion dispatch.
"It is critically important that the Government of Liberia make every effort to develop national security and the rule of law institutions that are fully independently …Mauritania: France condemns bombing
The French authorities have condemned a suicide bombing at its embassy in the Mauritanian capital Nouakchott which left three people injured. No group has so far claimed responsibility for Saturday's attack but Mauritanian authorities point fingers at Al-Qaeda with network in North-West Africa. - According to a BBC report, the suicide bomber had been wearing a belt packed with explosives which he detonated at 1900 GMT outside the embassy leaving him dead instantly and three other embassy staffs injured.
A statement by the French Foreign ministry condemning the attacks said "France reiterates its determination to fight against terrorism together with the authorities and the peopl…Niger president wins third term bid
Niger President Mamadou Tandja has won his bid for a third term in a referendum amidst protests. Tandja won 92% of the election and therefore allows him to amend the constitution and stay for another term of office. Opposition say the 68% turnout was false. - According to the opposition parties only 4% of the population took part in that election.
Tandja’s bid to stay in power at all cost has come under sharp criticism by the international communities and donor communities. The European Union which is the country's highest donor body has suspended aid payment to that country and warned of “serious consequences” for its cooperation with Niger if the President proceed…Nigerian President warns Niger President
Nigeria's President Umaru Yar'Adua has warned neighboring Niger President Mamadou Tandja on his plan to amend his country's constitution to stay in power for a third term and beyond. "I must express our deep concern about the political situation in Niger, with respect to the self-succession plan." - Yar’Adua added: “As you are aware, Nigeria and Niger are brother nations with very special ties and whatever affects one affects the other.”
President Tandja term of office expires in December but he is machinating a plan to amend the constitution to allow him another term, a move which has faced sharp criticism among the international community. Tand…Nigeria: Militants reject talks with President
Nigeria's militant group the Movement for the Emancipation of Niger-Delta (MEND) said it is not interested in holding face to face talks with Nigeria's President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua as long as 'the President takes appropriate decision which will lead to the end of the Niger-Delta conflict.' - "There are some of us that crave such meetings and those are in the minority and they are doing so for selfish monetary gains. As long as the President gets our message from Timi Alaibe or from the pages of newspapers, meeting him is not as important as the actions he takes to bring about the change every Nigerian now craves for, such as fiscal federalism," Jomo Gbomo …Internet black-out hits West Africa
Parts of West Africa are faced with internet black-out following a fault which is thought to have been caused by damaged SAT-3 fiber optic under sea cables which run through from South Africa to the West causing 70% of Nigeria's bandwidth cut while Togo and Benin remain offline. - Telkom South Africa, one of the shareholders of SAT-3 is yet to disclose what caused the problem but revealed that it was aware of "a cable fault on the Benin branch that is being investigated".
The fault has left many countries in the region struggling to get back online while the Nigerian banking sector, government and mobile phone networks are among the worst affected, according to a BBC report…Nigerian president gets tough on militants
The Nigerian President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua has directly ordered security forces in the West African state to use '"all necessary means'" to end clashes between the Bokum Haram militant group which opposes western education and the country's police force which have claimed more than 150 lives. - The clashes which started last weekend following the arrest and detention of leaders of Bokum Haram in Bauchi and Maiduguri have spread to three other States in the north of that country including Borno, Kano and Yobe States.
Members of the Bokum Haram armed with guns and grenades stormed the Dutsen Tanshi police station to set free their leaders in the ensuing battle …Nigeria: 150 dead in religious clashes
At least 150 people have been reported killed in Northern Nigeria following clashes between the Nigerian Police Force and members of a militant group called 'Bokom Haram' which opposes western education while trying to set free their leader. It is the number of people dead in two days of violence. - Last weekend clashes was ignited after some members of Bokum Haram armed with guns and grenades shouting “God Is Great” attacked the Dutsen Tanshi Police Station the same time a raid was launched in Maiduguri. Eyewitnesses told the BBC that a gun battle which lasted for hours left a Police station raised down and its immediate environs.
The NPF also reacted in raiding the…Ghana: Ex-prez named Hunger Ambassador
Ghanaian ex-President John Kufuor has been sworn-in as a Goodwill Ambassador Against Hunger for the UN World Food Program (WFP). Kufuor, who is accredited for handing over power peacefully to the current President John Mills will be traveling to disaster areas to access and make recommendations. - Frank Agyekum, the Press Secretary to Kufuor, said in a statement that: “His good works as the president of this country has been acknowledged by the world especially the World Bank, IMF and other foundations are tapping into his rich experience that is why he has been given this all important appointment,” according to modernghana.com website.
Furthermore, he added that the former p…Nigeria ready for U-17 World Cup
The Nigeria minister of Sports and Chairman for that country's National Sports Commission (NSC) Sani Ndanusa has said that his country is fully ready to host the FIFA U-17 World cup beginning October 24th to November 15th. Ndanusa express optimism even before the arrival of the inspection team from the FIFA. - The West African nation has come under sharp criticism in the past by sports pundits that they are not taking the issue of hosting the remarkable FIFA U-17 World cup events in that country seriously.
Jack Warner, Vice President for the world football governing body FIFA said at one point that “apart from Abuja and Lagos, the rest are in between 60 and 70 percent state of …Guinea: Junta lifts ban on gold exports
The military junta in the West African nation of Guinea has announced that they are lifting a ban on global gold miner AngloGold to resume the exportation of gold in the town of Siguiri after that company paid $10 million payment to the government for the mines environment liabilities. - Guinea Junta Chief Capt. Moussa Dadis Camara earlier in March imposed an embargo on gold exports. According to them AngloGold failed to attend a mining forum which was called by Capt. Camara for mining executives.
The town of Siguiri is the biggest gold mine in Guinea and minerals provide about a fifth of the country's earnings. The government has a 15% stake and AngloGold owns the other 85% accordin…“Taylor contributed to peace in S Leone”
Defense lawyers for former Liberian President Charles Ghankay Taylor has told the UN Backed Special Court for Sierra Leone that their client contributed to end one of Africa's most brutal civil wars in Sierra Leone. Taylor is standing trail on 11 counts for various war crimes and crimes against humanity. - His trial opened at the UN backed court in Sierra Leone in June 2007 but was transferred to The Hague citing security reasons in the ‘trouble’ West African region. Taylor will be the first witness to testify on his behalf on Tuesday.
Taylor’s lead defense counsel Courtenay Griffiths told the BBC that "We do not take issue with the fact that terrible atrocitie…Mali: Al-Qaeda free ‘last hostage’
Warner Garner, a Swiss hostage who was kidnapped by Al-Qaeda on January 22 this year in Niger has been freed in the Gao desert region of northern Mali in West Africa on Sunday. Warner was among the last of six Westerners kidnapped to be freed. Local authorities in Northern Mali have confirmed the released. - "The Swiss hostage has been freed; he is very tired, and will soon be reunited with his family, after first passing through Bamako," a source told the AFP news agency.
The West African nation of Mali has declared an all out war on those terrorists groups operation in that part of the continent but security experts predicted that the Al-Qaeda north African branch might be in …Oil theft, security threat in West Africa
The UN Office for Drugs and Crime (UNODC) said oil theft and smuggling poses the greatest security threat to the West African region "as it directly linked to insurgency and violence," according to their recent report. It said oil smuggling, diamonds and cigarettes continue to thrive in the region. - The report stated that the region has witnessed a sharp reduction of drug trafficking in the region for onward distribution to the European market.
According to the UNODC corruption continues to be prevalent among senior officials which according to the UN body undermine democracy and economic development, reported the BBC.
In recent times, the West African region is known to be…W/Africa countries lack strategies for wealth
Most countries in West Africa that are blessed with abundant mineral resources lack a strategy to manage their resources, a recent report said. The West Africa Resource Watch (WARW) said billions of dollars from oil, gas and mining revenues go missing, leaving the population depend heavily on aid. - The report which was primarily focused on resource management in seven West African countries was released on Thursday. Chad, Cōte d'Ivoire, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Niger and Sierra Leone were gauge by the report.
"None [of the countries] has a long-term and nationally shared vision for moving the country from where it is now to where citizens desire to be and with the role of …Russian president storms Nigeria
The Russian President Dmitry Anatolyevich Medvedev has arrived in West Africa's Nigeria from Egypt on his four-nation tour of the continent. The former Chairman of the Russian Oil giant company Gazprom is the first Russian head of state to visit that country with a 400 strong business delegation. - The Russian envoy to Nigeria Alexander Polyakov told This Day newspaper that the visit of Medvedev is in response to a call to honor an earlier invitation by President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua following talks on the sideline of G8 in Japan.
Polyakov said: “International issue will be on the agenda but the talks will primarily be about bilateral cooperation. We would like to give a …Nigeria to sign nuclear deal with Russia
Nigeria and the former Soviet State of Russia are to sign nuclear energy cooperation during the visit of Russia's President Dmitry Medvedev to that country on Wednesday for a one day visit. Nigeria's Presidential Spokesman said the nuclear program is for peaceful purpose especially for electricity. - The Russian President is expected to arrive with a high powered delegation which will include Gasprom Chief Executive Alexie Miller.
The Russian envoy to Nigeria, Alexander Polyakov told the Nigeria This Day newspaper that the Russian President is visiting Nigeria to honor an invitation which was earlier extended by President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua following talks on the sideline…Nigeria: FIFA ignore threats from militants
The world football governing body FIFA has ignored a warning which was earlier issued by militants group operating in Southern Nigeria. The warning was for the body to 'rethink' its decision of hosting this years U-17 world cup tournament which is schedule for October 24 to November 15 in Nigeria. - The main militant group in Niger Delta, the Movement for the Emancipation of Niger Delta (MEND) issued an email statement warning FIFA that ‘’this opportunity to advise FIFA to have a re-think about Nigeria hosting the under-17 world cup tournament at this time, as the safety of international players and visitors cannot not be guaranteed due to the current unrest’…Nigeria: Obasanjo’s wife passes on
The wife of former Nigeria President Olusegun Obasanjo is dead. Retired Major Mojisola Adekunle-Obasanjo, who ran in the last Presidential elections on the ticket of the Masses Movement of Nigeria died at the age of 65. Adekunle-Obasanjo a mother of four died after battling a two month undisclosed ailment. - Adetokunbo Abesanwa, daughter of the diseased told the Nigerian Daily Independent newspaper that her mother died on Thursday night at her residence in the Nigerian commercial capital of Lagos. "As I speak with you, I still cannot believe that my mother is gone. She was my pillar and a bundle of strength, even to the last moment. The vacuum she has left can never be filled," Abe…Mali: Algerian cited as 'key suspect'
Abdelhamid Abou Zeid,43, an Algerian who is listed by the United Nations as a 'well known' Al Qaeda member has been named by the Malian authorities for the killing of a British hostage Edwin Dyer. Hammadou is believed to be heading the Al Qaeda North African branch according to security experts. - Abou Zeid, known as Abib Hammadou is being accused for series of hostage taking in that region among them the 2008 abduction of Two Russians tourists in Tunisia who were later set freed.
Dyer was killed in Mali following failed talks with the British authorities to release Abu Qatada a Jordanian Islamist who is believed to have close links with the world most feared terrorist leader Os…Guinea Bissau to mourn first president
Guinea Bissau first post independence President Luis Cabral has died in Portugal's capital Lisbon at the age of 78 years. The Guinean authorities have announced that they will hold an emergency meeting to organize a three days period of national mourning. He became President for six years from 1974 to 1980. - Cabral was overthrown by Joao Bernardo Vieira, prime minister under his administration who was also assassinated by disgruntled members of his army earlier this year.
The government announced in a statement that "it is with shock and sadness that the government and people of Guinea-Bissau have learnt of the loss of one of their most illustrious sons, Luis Cabral," acco…S. Leone: President storms China
Sierra Leone's President Ernest Bai Koroma is in the Chinese capital Beijing in honor of an invitation which was earlier extended to him by the Chinese authorities. A statement said Koroma's visit is to discuss the long standing bilateral relationship between the two countries over the years. - Sierra Leone and the People’s Republic of China have enjoyed bilateral relationships since China, the world fastest growing economy decided to set up an embassy in Freetown over 30 years ago. China assisted Sierra Leone in the construction of most of the country infrastructure including the national stadium, army headquarters, ministerial buildings and assistance in the agricultural se…FIFA gives Nigeria ultimatum
FIFA has given Nigerian authorities one month ultimatum for preparations ahead of this year's under-17 world cup in October this year or the event transferred to 'un-named' country. This is after FIFA inspected nine venues but said only two meets their standard to host the prestigious event. - The commercial capital of Lagos and the Nigerian federal capital, Abuja have been given a ‘green card’ to host this year’s event according to the BBC.
According to the report the Nigeria authorities earlier said that hosting such event is not a priority to them but after the intervention of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), African football governing body …Two W/Africa countries re-elected to UNHRC
Nigeria and Senegal both countries situated in West Africa have been re-elected as members to the United Nation Human Right Council (UNHRC) for another term. The results which were announced in New York at the UN Headquarter provides for both countries with another three year term starting from June 19. - A statement by the Nigerian Permanent Mission to UN describes the re-election as "Our re-election into the Council is an acknowledgment of the remarkable work we did as Chair of the Council. It is also an expression of international goodwill and appreciation of Nigeria's human rights record." This Day newspaper reported.
Other successful countries to this position for a se…Nigeria: Labour unions to continue protest
The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has announced that their strike action continue for the next ten days if their requests are not met by their government. Thousands of Nigeria's took to the street of the commercial capital Lagos in a protest action against what they describe as the rise of fuel prices. - The labour congress is also protesting over low minimum wage, slow electoral reform and the low performance of government.
Abdulwaheed Omar, President of NLC told the BBC that “We are determined to carry these protests to all nooks and crannies of the country, we are not afraid of the government.”
NLC further stated that they intend to extend their strike action in ci…Clitoris hospital for Burkina Faso
Females with mutilated clitoris can now breathe a sigh of relief following the construction of a hospital in Burkina Faso that would specialize in the reconstruction of the sex organ. The US non-profit organization Clitoraid is funding the $50,000 project which is dubbed "Pleasure Hospital." - The ‘Pleasure Hospital’ situated at Bobo- Dioulasso in the western part of Burkina Faso will help women especially victims of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) wishing to have their clitoris restored after going through such ordeal.
‘Pleasure Hospital’ will offer free clitoral reconstruction surgeries to victims of FGM all throughout the West Africa region, according…UN worried over West Africa military coups
The United Nations Security Council has expressed concern over the recent unconstitutional change of government in parts of Africa and its negative impact especially on the welfare and development of these countries. The West African sub region has become home to military coups in recent times. - The region which is made up of15 member states (West Africa)has witnessed three military coups in less than 18 months which forces the African Union, the region main body to describe the situation in a their communiqué as “the resurgence of the phenomenon of coup d’état, which constitutes a threat to peace and security on the continent…”
The President of Mauritania Chiekh …Microsoft helps Nigeria fight cyber fraud
The world leading computer software company Microsoft has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Nigeria Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) to fight cyber crime. Nigeria is among the leading countries in online crime, the 2007 report of Internet Crime Complaint Center said. - The group said there are various ways of perpetrating internet crime but the most popular one which is associated with Nigerians is the email scam - a means of extorting money on false pretence and credit card fraud.
Farida Waziri a representative of EFCC said under the signed new agreement her agency will be able to host the first ever West African Fraud summit in the Nigerian federal capital Abuj…Senegal names new prime minister
Senegal Prime Minister Cheikh Hadjibou Soumare resigned on Thursday for 'personal reason.' President Abdoulaye Wade has accepted his resignation and has named a replacement. The new PM, Souleymane Ndene Ndiaye, is a party stalwart and known to be more politically astute than Soumare. - "At the cabinet meeting this morning (Thursday), I offered my resignation and that of the government," Cheikh Hajibou Soumare told reporters in the capital Dakar, adding that he had stepped down for personal reasons.
Ndene Ndiaye was previously minister for maritime economy and fishery. President Wade’s party suffered a massive loss in local government elections which was conducted…Niger: Al-Qaeda releases UN boss, others
The North African branch of Al-Qaeda has on Wednesday released the UN Special Envoy to Niger and three other foreigners in Mali. They were kidnapped in December 2008 in Niger including two female tourists out of a group of four nabbed in January. Malian officials helped to secure their releases. - The envoy Robert Fowler, a Canadian born and his assistant Louis Gay were snatched on their way to attend a cultural festival close to the Malian border.
Following the kidnapping Al-Qaeda North African branch issued a statement claiming responsibility. The AFP news agency said the kidnapping “marked the first time al-Qaeda had targeted Niger, a mainly Muslim country that has been plagued b…S Leone: Special Court gets $6.5 million
The Special Court for Sierra Leone announced that it has received $6.5 million in new contribution out of the $28 million it budgeted for this year and it is expected that the money will enable the trial of Liberia's former President Taylor. The court forecasted that its funding will run out in April this year. - Commentators earlier predicted that former President Taylor who is standing trial on 11 counts at the UN backed court might be set free because of the lack of funding.
Stephen Rapp, Special Court Prosecutor told IRIN on the lack of funding that "I could have the best evidence in the world, I could have the strongest advocacy, but if we ran out of funds, the court might…Togo: President’s brother in attempted coup
Togolese authorities have exhibit a cache of arms and ammunition in the capital Lome which they said belongs to the brother of President Faure Gnassingbe. Kpatcha Gnassingbe former defense minister was accused of trying to overthrow his brother following a shoot out at his residence which left two dead. - Faure Gnassingbe came to power in 2005 following the death of his father one time Africa’s longest serving head of state Gnassingbe Eyadema.
According to the BBC the relationship between the two has become ‘sour’ in recent times whiles many Togolese say the accusation did not come as a surprise to them.
Kpatcha Gnassingbe was relieved from his post as defense minis…Nigeria: Police rescue kidnapped Italian
Nigerian Police Force rescued an Italian construction worker Giuceppe Canova about two weeks after Italy's foreign ministry announced that one of its citizen has been kidnapped in Southern Nigeria "whiles on his way to a project site." Southern Nigeria is home for abduction and demanding of ransom. - Following Canova abduction, the Italian Foreign ministry said earlier that they “have activated all useful channels to bring a positive resolution to the abduction” and that they are in contact with the Nigerian authorities and Canova’s family.
Ebonyi Police Commissioner Kachi Udeoji said at a news conference that Canova was rescued in the early hours of Wedne…S. Leone: Three sentenced to 117 yrs
Three former commanders of the Revolutionary United Front (RUF) rebels group were on Wednesday served longer jail totaling 117 years for various war crimes and crimes against humanity at the Special Court for Sierra Leone. They are Issa Hassan Sesay, Morris Kallon, and Augustine Gbao. - The three were arrested exactly six years ago on 18 counts for crimes against humanity and violations of aspects of the Geneva Conventions as well as other serious violations of international humanitarian law - attacks on UN personnel, unlawful killing, rape, acts of terrorism, use of child soldier, abduction of hostage and forced marriage among others.
In a sentencing judgment which was read at the court …US warns of terror attacks in Nigeria
The United States embassy in Nigeria has issued a statement warning its citizens and various foreign missions of a possible terrorist attack in some parts of that country. The embassy said it has received report of a possible terrorist attack against foreign missions located closer to its embassy. - The statement warned that “the US Mission in Nigeria has received information that US and other Western interests in Nigeria are currently at risk for terrorist attack’’ but gave no specific details.
The statement further said that US government facilities world wide remain in a state of alert due to the "the continuing threat of terrorist actions and violence against A…Nigeria: Militants refuse amnesty offer
The main militant group in Southern Nigeria, the Movement for the Emancipation of Niger Delta (MEND) has refused to accept an offer by President Yar'Adua with a condition that they lay down their arms. Yar'Adua said he will grant amnesty to those militant who make up their mind to lay down their arms. - The President who was speaking at the 47th meeting of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of his People’s Democratic Party (PDP) said “we are working on the terms for the granting of amnesty to all those who are prepared to lay down their arms in the Niger Delta and this amnesty will include not only laying down their arms, but reintegrating and rehabilitating them in…Ivory Coast: IMF writes off $3bn debt
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has written off the sum of $3 billion out of Ivory Coast's $12.8 billion debt it owes the organization. IMF pledged another $565 million to the West African state but cautioned its authorities to improve on their poverty reduction and financial transparency. - Ivorian President Laurent Gbagbo who came into power in 2000 for a five-year term but was given a seventh successive year in power in November 2006 under a United Nations arrangement thanked IMF for the decision to write off his country’s debt while describing it as a “welcoming development,” afrik.com reported.
Ivory Coast is hosting one of the world’s largest UN pe…Two Nigerians among World's Richest
Two Nigerians have been named among the current world's richest persons. They are billionaire Alhaji Aliko Dangnote - CEO of Dangote Group and Dangote Oil - and Femi Otedola - CEO of Zenon Petroleum and Gas and also chairman of African Petroleum. - Forbes magazine named them as the only two Nigerians who made it among the four black people worldwide of this year’s Forbes richest blacks. Dangote was ranked 261 with an estimated worth of $2.5 billion dollars while popular talk show host and philanthropist Opray Winfrey was named the richest black person with a ranking of 241.
Last year, Forbes named Dangnote as the richest black African with an average ranking of 334 with $3.3 bi…Guinea Bissau: President laid to rest
The former President of Guinea Bissau has been laid to rest in the capital Bissau following a military guard of honor and a 21 gun salute. President Vieira was killed a week ago in a revenge attack by some army officers loyal to the former army chief General Tagme Na Waie who was also assassinated in a bomb attack. - The former President Vieira’s coffin was draped in the country’s national flag and laid in state on Monday night to show last respect. Vieira’s wife Isabela who had earlier seek refuge at the Angolan embassy after her husband was killed was in attendance to receive condolences from friends, family members, ministers and members of the diplomatic core.
It wa…Belgium takes Senegal to ICJ
Belgium has chosen to take Senegal to the International Court of Justice for failing to prosecute former Chadian dictator Hissene Habre despite claims that they are making frantic effort to prosecute him. It is alleged that Habre, whiles in office killed thousands of people and tortured many more. - According to the Associated Press a document which was filled earlier last week by Belgium to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) said Senegal’s failure to prosecute Habre breaches International law, Senegal “violates the general obligation to punish crimes against international humanitarian law.’’
Human Rights groups welcome Belgium decision but a Senegalese based…Nigeria: Clashes are politically motivated
The State Governor of Bauchi in Nigeria, Mallam Isa Yuguda, has revealed that last weekend clashes between Muslims and Christians which left 11 dead in his state was politically motivated. He said the clash was a political ploy to destroy the development record of his administration in that state. - He also gave strong warning that anyone who was behind last weekend attacks will face the full penalties of the law, according to the Nigerian Vanguard newspaper. Yuguda said that his administration is determined to protect lives and properties “we are here to protect lives, properties and manage crisis.”
Red Cross sources said 38 people were seriously injured in the crisis and tha…Nigeria: Military rescues two Russians
Two Russian expatriates, Sergie Zermotalov and Kontantin Aksemoy, abducted by gunmen two months ago in Akwa Ibom state Nigeria have been rescued by the Nigerian military Joint Task Force (JTF). Spokesman of JTF Lt. Col. Sagir Musa said a military patrol boat accidentally ran into the hostages in Ikasa. - According to media report the two Russians had earlier made their escaped some five days from were they were held as hostages but the Nigeria military is yet to ascertain the exact location. Zermotalov and Aksemoy were wandering in the creek before the JTF ran into them at about 2:30pm on Wednesday.
Security experts said the Movement for The Emancipation of Niger-Delta (MEND) might be res…“Niger Delta crisis is an exaggeration”
The crisis in the Niger-Delta has been exaggerated and blown out of proportion Dr. Charles Lopse., United Nation Assistance Secretary General has said. "I think it is important for us to separate speculation from facts; we are on the ground in the Niger Delta, so we know exactly what is going on here." - “There is a lot of rumor about the area, but there is also something that needed to be taken care of’,” he said, shortly after a meeting with Port Harcourt Governor Chibuike Rotimi on Wednesday, according to the Nigerian Vanguard newspaper.
Dr. Lopse added that “there is an image problem which needs to be managed and once it is handled, people would real…Liberia: Mysterious insect identified
The identity of mysterious caterpillars ravaging crops and contaminating water in northern Liberia has been established. A joint effort of the FAO, International Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Commonwealth Agriculture Bureau International named the insect as Achaea catocaloides. - Georg Goergen, IITA entomologist and taxonomist explains: “The moth plague in Liberia is not African armyworms, or Spodoptera exempta, as earlier reported in the media, but belongs to the species A catocaloides. Although Spodoptera and Achaea moths are related, their feeding and breeding habits are quite different. For example, caterpillars of armyworms generally don't attack trees as larvae of A …UK to throw out 400 Nigerians
400 hundred Nigerians across prisons in the United Kingdom are currently waiting repatriation. Phil Woolas UK minister of State for Immigration and Boarders sought cooperation to speedily fast track immigration policies between the UK and the Nigeria government during a visit to Nigeria recently. - Woolas denied allegations of his country violation against immigrants especially Nigerians “It is illegal in the UK to discriminate against people on the ground of race or religion or gender, so any such discrimination is treated seriously.”
He continued: “Secondly, we have independent monitors of national and international monitory of prisons and detention centres. It is also…Liberia: ECOWAS donates $100,000
The Economic Community of West African States has donated the sum of USD$100,000 to the Liberian Government to help fight devastating insects which ravaged farms in Liberia and neighboring Guinea. The World Health Organization in a statement said the insects are not armyworms but were uncommon. - The $100, 000 was presented to the Liberian President by Olusseini Salifou, ECOWAS Commissioner for Agriculture, Environment and Water Resources and also head of the visiting assessment mission.
According to media report the visiting ECOWAS assessment mission to Liberia will determine further aid in the area of medical supplies, spray machines, insecticides and medical supplies.
Tim Vaessen, F…Nigeria: Senate kicks-out acting president
The Nigerian Senate has rejected the decision by President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua for his subordinate Vice President Goodluck Jonathan to assume presidency while he is away on his two weeks leave. The members contend that they have received no correspondence from the presidency to that effect. - A statement from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) last weekend announced that President Yar’Adua will take a leave of office with effect from January 26th and while away all state matters will be handled by Vice President Jonathan.
Senate President David Mark told the chamber on Tuesday that there was no official correspondence from Yar’Adua tha…Nigeria: Goat charged with robbery
Police in Kwara State of Southern Nigeria paraded a goat suspected of taking part in a robbery incident on Wednesday. The Police Public Relations Officer, Tunde Mohammed, said the goat is being held in custody because it was a suspected human robber that transformed itself into it to escape arrest. - Mohammed said the mysterious goat is an armed robber who unsuccessfully made attempts to steal a Mazda car and later transformed himself into a goat in his bid to escape arrest.
He said the armed robber was arrested by members of a vigilante group in Anifowose Ipata/Oloje while they were chasing two other armed robbers. “While one of them escaped, the other was about to be apprehended b…Sierra Leone: Obama fever grips nation
Sierra Leone is bashing with series of activities in honor of the inauguration of the first ever black US President-elect Barack Obama. The capital Freetown is agog with Obama fever as radio and TV stations get set to broadcast the event live. Other groups have planned carnivals across the country. - The UN radio FM 103.7 has assured residents in Sierra Leone they will broadcast the inauguration live from their studios at the Mamy Yoko hotel in Freetown followed by a commentary. A UN radio presenter told AfricaNews that they want to give the opportunity to those who cannot afford TV set to monitor the event.
Also, the Women In the Media Sierra Leone (WIMSAL) a group of female journalists …“Ghadafi must apologize to S. Leone”
The Civil Society Movement of Sierra Leone has appealed to the Libyan Leader Col. Ghadafi to apologize to Sierra Leoneans for "inflicting suffering to the country in their 11 years civil war" when he embarked on a four-day state visit in the country. - The Libyan leader arrived on Wednesday afternoon with a high power security network and will be there till next year 2009. He will be received by host President Ernest Bai Koroma and will be staying in his tent in Rogbere town some 65 miles off Freetown.
The Libyan leader is accused of supporting one of the world’s most feared rebels groups, the Revolutionary United Front (RUF) during the Sierra Leone civil war which left m…Senegal: Wade seeks support for Guinea
Senegalese President Abdoulaye Wade is the first African leader to publicly back Captain Dadis Camara of Guinea. Wade said: "the captain asked me to be his interpreter to Guineans, to the opposition, to ECOWAS, to the AU, the European Union, the US, the World Bank and international institutions." - Addoulaye Wade told France 24 that he has been asked by Camara in a phone conversation to serve as an ‘interpreter’ to the world adding that “I think that this group of soldiers deserves to be backed.’’
Despite international pressure from world leaders, with the African Union (AU) suspending Guinea, Wade has assured that "this is the first time that …Guinea: Conte laid to rest
The remains of Guinean former president Gen. Lansana Conte has finally been laid to rest in his hometown Lansanaya, some 120km of the capital Conakry. Gen. Conte seized power more than 20 years ago after the death of the country's first president Sheku Turay. He died at the age of 74 after a long illness. - Earlier, the body of the late president Conte was paraded in the capital Conakry before taken to the parliament building to lie in state before he was finally laid to rest in his hometown.
Captain Moussa Camara who recently announced himself as the new head of state declared Friday as a national holiday in respect of former president Conte.
Among those who were in attendance…Yar'Adua elected ECOWAS chairman
Nigeria's President Ya'Adua has been elected chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). He was elected at the 35th Heads of State Summit and Government of ECOWAS which ended in the Nigerian federal capital Abuja. He takes over from Burkina Faso's president Blaise Campore. - Yar’Adua becomes the second Nigerian President to head the regional body whiles his predecessor former president Olusegun Obasanjo became the first ECOWAS chair from that country.
Speaking earlier at the opening session of the summit Yar’Adua praised the ECOWAS commission over the level of stability in the region single out the recent attempt to topple Guinea Bissau&…Nigeria: 35th Heads of State summit opens
West African Leaders are meeting in Nigeria to attend the 35th Ordinary Session of ECOWAS Heads of State and government. The summit will be discussing on its agenda among other things infrastructural development and the election of a new Chairperson to take over from President Blaise Campore. - A dispatch from State house yesterday confirmed that Sierra Leone’s president Koroma has already left the shores of Sierra Leone and will be joining other Heads of government including the current head of the African Union Tanzania President Jakaya Kikwete who happens to be a guest of the West African body.
Liberia’s Vice President is accompanied by his planning and Economic Affairs Min…Nigeria: President cautions new ministers
Nigeria's president Umaru Yar'Adua has warned his newly appointed ministers to stay away from corruption during the inaugural ceremony of some 16 ministers in Abuja. He urged members of his reorganized Federal Executive Council to "think out of the box" and avoid all forms of corrupt practices. - He said any act of corruption “would be visited with the strictest sanction in line with this administration's total abhorrence of corruption in all ramifications and adherence to rules and regulations governing government business,” according to the Nigeria Daily Trust Newspaper.
President Yar’Adua who succeeded former president Olusegun Obasanjo came t…Niger: Rebels kidnap UN envoy
The UN Envoy to Niger has been kidnapped after he was driving to the country's capital Niamey with two others. A splinter faction of an insurgent group of nomadic tribesmen fighting in northern Niger claimed on their website that they were responsible for kidnapping Canadian born Robert Fowler. - Fowler, 64, has previously served as Canada’s defense minister and ambassador to the UN. A statement from the group’s website said Fowler had been taken in a “commando operation” that was intended as a warning to “diplomats who collaborate with ethnocidal regime” according to the New York Times.
The United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon earlier said…Nigeria: “Remove immunity clause”
Nigeria's president Yar'Adua has appealed for the repealing of laws that protect politicians from prosecution whiles in office. His appeal came while marking this year's international anti-corruption day. He also launched a new campaign to encourage Nigerians to report corrupt practices. - The International Anti-Corruption Day celebration is marked every year by the United Nations to raise awareness on the ills of corruption and what people can do to fight it.
Yar’Adua said: “This provision for immunity against prosecution for serving officers should be expunged from the constitution,” adding that “nobody in Nigeria deserves the right to be protected…Liberia: 100 inmates break jail
Over 100 inmates forcefully broke and escaped from jail in Liberia's only maximum prison, South Beach compound, in the capital Monrovia on Tuesday. Media reports say the escapees were armed robbers who were separated from the other prisoners. Prison officials said the inmates overpowered them. - A prison guard told Reuters how the prisoners made their way out of jail. "We do not have weapons; Over a hundred prisoners marched outside to push the gate open by force. We could not control them ... They overpowered us." Another injured police officer added "they came in their numbers. As they came, they started throwing stones, sticks and bottles. We had to give way for them t…AFRICOM: Liberia security is positive
A senior military commander attached to the US African Command, AFRICOM, has given a positive view about the security situation in Liberia five years after that country's civil war. Brigadier-General Garrett said she is pleased with gains made so far especially on the ongoing security sector reform. - She expressed hope that lessons learnt from the security sector exercise could be applied to other countries “without reinventing the wheels.” She praised Liberian president Ellen Johnson Sirleaf for her performance and urged her to do more.
On her part, Africa’s only female president Sirleaf said she hopes that the visit of Gen. Garrett will inspire more females to jo…Nigeria: Satellite confirmed lost forever
The $340m Chinese built Nigeria Communication Satellite (NigCom-Sat) is now confirmed missing in space. NigCom-Sat experienced a major problem recently after a year in operation. Technicians say it is beyond repairs, damaged and has been safely moved to its final resting place in outer-space. - The Managing Director of NigCom-Sat, Ahmed Rufai appeared before the House of Representatives Committee on Science and Technology which was chaired by Usaq Akinlade in the federal capital Abuja according to the Vanguard newspaper. Rufai told the House that more money will be needed for the construction of two new equipment as NigCom-Sat is out of the question.
He said though the satellite is lost f…Nigeria: Search for HIV/AIDS vaccines begins
A laboratory which would strictly be dedicated to research on vaccines for HIV/AIDS, malaria and typhoid fever is to be established be the Nigerian ministry of State for Defense and its counterpart the United States Department of Defense. These diseases are among the leading causes of death in Africa. - Fidelia Njeze Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defense who was speaking to the US delegation of Walter Reed Army Institute said that the laboratory would be located in the federal capital Mogadishu barracks, Abuja. She disclosed that the joint effort between the US and Nigeria have led to the establishment of 14 functional centers across military formations in the country, according to t…Nigeria bets on DRC peace talks
Hopes have been expressed in the ongoing mediation talks on the crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Nigeria's President Yar'Adua said African Union's Peace and Security Council is keen on resolving it. He disclosed Nigeria as current head of the Council would see to an amicable settlement. - AU mediators including Paul Kagame of Rwanda are currently in a crucial talk in Kenya’s capital Nairobi to find a lasting solution to the conflict in DRC.
According to the Daily Independent newspaper, Yar’Adua said at the end of the 4th German-African Forum on Sunday in Abuja that he is confident the talks would be positive. He added: "I believe that with the ce…Nigeria: Rebels rescue Lebanese national
A militant group - Movement for the Emancipation of Niger Delta (MEND) - has rescued a Lebanese national after being taken hostage for three days. Gun men kidnapped Melad Nasari of the Homans Construction Company on Wednesday, This Day newspaper reported. - According to the report, Gbomo Jomo, spokesman for MEND said in a statement that a commando unit from MEND conducted a successful rescue of Nasari as promised, from deep inside the bush where he was confined by his abductors. MEND is a militant group which is fighting for what they described as a fair share of their oil wealth.
He added: "During the course of the operation, they heard the frantic shout for help from an individua…Obasanjo named special envoy to DRC
The Former Nigerian president Olusegun Obasanjo has been appointed as a special envoy to the Democratic Republic of Congo. "He will work with the leaders of the region and international community to bring about a lasting political solution," the United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon said. - "He will work with the leaders of the region and international community to bring about a lasting political solution," he said. "I expect all those with a stake in region's future - the Security Council, the African Union and the European Union - to support him to the fullest," he appealed.
The UN Secretary General also announced that he will be meeting both pr…Sierra Leone to host sensational artistes
The sensational duo - Brick and Lace - are expected to perform at the national stadium main bowl in Sierra Leone capital Freetown on December 8th. They are going on the ticket of Comium, one of Sierra Leone's leading mobile networks with an estimated number of over 400,000 subscribers countrywide. - The Jamaican born duo and Kon Live leading group with real names as Nyanda and Nailah Thorbourne, are scheduled to promote the company’s products and services. Lawrence Spencer-Coker marketing officer for Comium Sierra Leone affirmed to AfricaNews that his company has signed a headline agreement with the Sierra Leone agent that will be bringing the artistes to Sierra Leone.
Spencer…Nigeria: Pressure mounts on prostitutes
Commercial sex workers infected with the HIV virus in the Bauchi State of northern Nigeria have been given an ultimatum to get married to those they have infected or face a crack down. The Sharia Commission issued the directive and asked them to repent, Dr. Muhammad of Bauchi HIV Control Agency said. - Out of the 51 commercial sex workers tested 30 were confirmed as carrying the virus whiles most of them continue to spread the disease, the Daily Trust reported. Dr. Muhammad said that his agency in collaboration with the Sharia Commission will soon embark on a crack down on commercial sex workers who have been tested for HIV positive and still continue to spread the virus.
“Those who…Girl freed from slavery in Niger
The Niger government has been fined $19,750 by the West African Court for failing to protect Hadijatou Mani, 24 from slavery. Mani said she was sold 10 years ago for $500 to Souleymane Naroua a slave master. Despite arguing that it has done all it can to eradicate slavery, a judge ordered the compensation. - She said during the last 10 years she had suffered series of physical torture and rape. "I was beaten so many times I would run to my family, then after a day or two I would be brought back. At the time I didn't know what to do but since I learned that slavery has been abolished I told myself that I will no longer be a slave,” she said.
A local court in Niger had to se…Nigeria president snubs honour
Nigeria's President Umaru Ya'Adua has rejected a proposal by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to name a street in Abuja the federal capital after him. He said he rather preferred a government after him to do so. His vice president, Goodluck Jonathan, also refused a similar proposal. - The Federal Capital Territory minister, Aliyu Modibo Umar, said Ya’rdua has again demonstrated leadership by rejecting the offer. However, several other Blacks, and Nigerians, were honored for their contributions in political and economic growth in the continent.Among them included Atiku Abubakar former Nigerian vice president, Chinua Achebe, Wole Soyinka, JJ Okocha, Nwanko Ka…6 West Africans killed in Italy
Italian mafias have gunned down six West African migrants in the southern Italian city of Naples on Friday. The dead include three Ghanaians, a Liberian and a Togolese national. The incident was linked to a drug trafficking melee with the mafia, Casalesi Clan, local police sources have alleged. - The sixth victim is yet to be identified. A police officer in Castelvolturno, near where the shooting took place was quoted by a South African News Agency as saying, “There has never been so many dead in a shooting, it is a record for the region.”
Media reports allege that the deceased refused to make payment to CC after a successful drug trafficking trade. The CC, who controls the d…ECOWAS sympathizes with Haiti
ECOWAS has sympathized with the government and people of Haiti following a devastating tropical storm, which left more than 600 dead, and millions more homeless in the tiny Caribbean state recently. The President of the West African regional body, Mohamed Ibn Chambas delivered the message. - “ECOWAS shared the pains felt by Haitians who are struggling to survive the consequences of the fatal storms,” the Economic Community of West African States said in a press statement. Chambas conveyed the condolence to the people of Haiti on behalf of the Governments and the people of West Africa.
It could be recalled that a devastating Hurricane Ike hit Haiti recently leaving thousands of…WB: Ghana is best place for investors
Ghana is named the best country in West Africa for investment and other business ventures. The World Bank and the International Finance Consortium (IFC) released the results in their latest 'Doing Business' 2009 report. The cocoa endowed country placed 87th out of 181 countries marked worldwide. - The ‘Doing Business’ report rank economies based on 10 indicators of business regulation such as the tracking and time to meet government requirements in setting up a business, cross border trading, tax payments, according to the Ghanaian Chronicle. The report does not reflect on macro economics policy, currency volatility, investor’s perceptions or crime rate.
The r…Sierra Leonean president declares asset
The assets of the President of Sierra Leone, Ernest Koroma, have been made public as part of moves to fight corruption, a statement from the state house revealed. He perhaps becomes the first African president to declare his assets. The act follows the passage of the new anti-corruption bill of 2008. - The new Bill, which was signed by the president, gave extensive powers to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), a body which was set up by former President Kabba to fight corruption in the country.
A press release from state house on Monday, said the president’s action was a clear indication of his Government’s commitment to remove the ‘cancer’ of corruption in Sierr…Nigerian military chiefs fired
Nigerian president, Musa Y'ardua, has fired some of the country's top military officers, shortly before leaving for the Islamic Republic of Saudi Arabia. No reason was given for the action according to sources from Abuja. - The military top brass who were sacked include the chief of defense staff, the chief of army staff and the chief of naval staff among others and they have already been replaced.
Sola Odunfa, a Nigerian analyst and former BBC correspondent said in an interview that the president decision did not come as a surprise to him. Sola Odunfa said former heads of states are accustomed to replacing top military brass as soon as they assume power according to him the sa…Africa-Turkey Summit Opens
A four day summit has started in Turkey's capital Istanbul between African heads of state and Turkey. The summit is aimed at strengthening cooperation between Africa and Turkey. African countries are represented by various regional bodies and the African Union. - Speaking in an interview the deputy head of the African Union, Erastas Minchel told the BBC that the summit is vital to the continent because it is part of a process for Africa to continue to strengthening its partnership with the rest of the world. Mr. Minchel said Turkey has over the years offered alot of assistance especially in the peacekeeping operations and other areas that are of strategic importance to the continent.
…Bird Flu returns to Nigeria
The Food an Agricultural Organization (FAO), has announced the discovery of the highly contagious Pathogenic Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) in Kano and Katsina states in Nigeria. - FAO said in its press release that laboratory results from Nigeria and similar FAO reference laboratory shows that the newly discovered virus strain is genetically different from earlier outbreaks in 2006 and 2007 and similar to the strain that was reported in parts of Asia, Europe and the middle East.
Scott Newman, Coordinator of International Wildlife, FAO's Animal Health Service said; "The detection of a new avian influenza virus strain in Africa raises serious concerns as it remains unknown how this …World leaders condemn Mauritania coup
The United States, the African Union and Nigeria's President Umaru Yar'Adua (photo) have condemned this weeks military coup in Mauritania. The strike was was led by General Mohamed Ould Abdelazeez, the head of the Presidential Guard Unit who is also heading the country's newly formed 'State Council'. - Wednesdays coup followed a decision by the president to sack senior members of the army. Earlier report indicated that the president was seized including other senior government officials after the successful overthrown. The US through its State Department spokesman Gonzalo Gallegos said ‘’ This was a democratically elected, constitutional government and we…Sierra Leone: 600 kilo of cocaine seized
Senior airport authorities in Lungi and the crew members were arrested on Monday after an aircraft landed and unloaded 600 kilo of cocaine that was later seized. Police confirmed and announced that this was the biggest seizure made by Sierra Leone's police. - All started when a white small cargo plane with a Venezuelan registration landed at 3 am on Monday. Immediately after landing the crew got off from the plane and boarded a waiting van which drove through the perimeter of the airport fence to an unknown destination.
The airport authorities quickly went to inspect the plane and they later found in it 600Kilo Gram Cocaine which is estimated at around 35 million dollars, and 5 loade…Brown’s help to Nigeria infuriates rebels
Niger Delta Militant group has threatened to end its two weeks cease fire on Saturday midnight in the region following a statement made by the British Prime Minister Gordon Brown at the just concluded G8 summit in Japan that he would end violence in the region. - Gordon Brown told a news conference in Japan that his government is willing to help the Nigerian Government tackle what he described as lawlessness in the Niger Delta region.
"We stand ready to give help to the Nigerians to deal with lawlessness that exists in this area and to achieve the levels of production that Nigeria is capable of, but because of the law and order problems has not been able to achieve," Brown said.…Weah wants Liberia team under his control
Liberian former world yootballer of the year turned politician George Weah has expressed his disappointment about the national soccer team, announcing that he is willing to offer his expertise as technical director to the country's Lone Star national team if the job is offered. - “definitely I would come and help, because the team needs help” Weah said.
George Weah said he is disappointed so far with the work of current coach Antoine Hey, whom he says is not making use of his knowledge.
"I called him [Hey] to say I'd identified some players, but the coach said 'no' - he wanted to work with the people that he'd got. So if he doesn't have a …Nigeria nuclear plans worry G-8
The world most powerful nations, the G8, have expressed concerns over Nigeria's ability to acquire nuclear technology. They are said to be uncomfortable with that nuclear move despite Nigeria's position that the nuclear power generation is purely meant for electricity supply. - Speaking to ‘This Day’ at the end of a week long safety nuclear energy training programme, Shamsedeen Elegba, Director-General of the Nigeria Nuclear Regulatory Agency (NNRA) confirmed that the G8 had expressed wories over Nigeria’s readiness to acquire nuclear energy.
He further said: "Most of them are cynical about our level of safety and some even question our level of responsib…Sierra Leone: Rival parties endorse peace
The three main political parties in Sierra Leone have jointly signed an affirmation of commitment with the Political Parties Registration Commission (PPRC) supporting a a fair and peaceful local council election at Santano House in Freetown. - The ruling All Peoples Congress (APC) and The Opposition Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) The Peoples Movement for Democratic Change( PMDC), announced their commitments during an event organized by Campaign for Good Governance, a civil society body.
In his remarks Mohamed L. Bangura, APC Organizing Secretary, expressed his appreciation for bringing the three political parties together.
“This is one big step in achieving peaceful …Adebayor African Footballer of the Year
Togolese and Arsenal FC striker Emmanuel Adebayor has been presented the 2007 Best African Footballer of the Year trophy at a well attended ceremony last night in the Togolese capital, Lome. - Emmanuel Adebayor won 42 percent of the total vote beating Ivory Coast Didier Drogba in the second position and Micheal Essien finishing third.
Antoine Folloy Togo sport minister presented the Award to Adebayor whiles thousands of onlookers waited outside just to get glimpse of the Arsenal striker.
Emmanuel Adebayor told the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) sport that he feels highly honored to receive the prestigious award in front of his people "I hope it will show my people that whe…
