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Emmanuel Patrick Laku Tombe, Cemetery Road, Juba (2026)

02/06/2026

Kenya Pushes Ahead with $770 Million Northern Corridor Project to Boost Trade and Connectivity

WAJIR, Kenya — President William Ruto has reaffirmed the government's commitment to transforming Northern Kenya through a major road infrastructure programme, saying improved security in the region is paving the way for economic growth, investment and cross-border trade.

During an inspection tour of the 64-kilometre Tarbaj–Kotulo section of the Isiolo–Mandera highway in Wajir County, Ruto highlighted progress on the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project, a 750-kilometre transport corridor valued at approximately KSh100 billion ($770 million).

The corridor will link Isiolo, Meru, Garissa, Wajir and Mandera, while also strengthening transport links between Kenya and neighbouring Ethiopia and Somalia.

Ruto said enhanced security had helped create a more stable environment for economic activity across Northern Kenya, encouraging trade and opening new opportunities for investment.

The government expects the road project to reduce travel times, lower transportation costs and improve access to markets for businesses and pastoralist communities. Officials say the corridor will be particularly important for the livestock industry, a key economic sector in the region, by facilitating the movement of animals and livestock products to domestic and regional markets.

More than 11 contractors are currently working on different sections of the project, which forms part of Kenya's broader strategy to improve infrastructure in historically underserved regions and strengthen regional economic integration in the Horn of Africa.

Once completed, the corridor is expected to serve as a major trade route connecting Northern Kenya to regional markets, supporting economic development and improving mobility for communities along its route.

02/06/2026

Ethiopia Launches Major Riverside Development Project Following General Election

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on Tuesday officially launched the Entoto–Kechene Medhanealem Riverside Development Project, a major urban renewal initiative aimed at transforming parts of the Ethiopian capital through environmental restoration and infrastructure development.

The announcement came a day after Ethiopia's seventh general election, with Abiy describing the project as a key milestone in the country's urban development agenda.

“This morning, following yesterday’s 7th General Election, we officially opened the transformative Entoto to Kechene Medhanealem Riverside Development Project,” the prime minister said.

According to Abiy, the initiative will rehabilitate previously degraded areas through modern soil conservation measures, river clean-up efforts, and the creation of green public spaces. The project also includes fruit parks, pedestrian walkways, and cycling paths designed to improve the city's environment and livability.

“Spanning a total riverside development corridor of 22.25 kilometres, the project stands as a tangible symbol of our progress and a practical demonstration of national growth, environmental restoration, and urban renewal,” he said.

The development forms part of Ethiopia's broader efforts to modernize urban infrastructure, expand green spaces, and improve environmental sustainability in Addis Ababa.

Government officials say the project is expected to enhance public recreation areas, strengthen ecosystem conservation, and contribute to the long-term revitalization of the capital.

02/06/2026

Seychelles Appoints Sandra Hall as Deputy Director of Financial Intelligence Unit

VICTORIA, Seychelles — The Office of President Wavel Ramkalawan has announced the appointment of Sandra Hall as Deputy Director of the country's Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), effective June 1, 2026.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the presidency described Hall as an experienced professional in compliance, financial regulation, and governance, with more than a decade of experience across both the public and private sectors.

Hall has extensive expertise in anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT), regulatory compliance, and financial crime risk management.

She previously served in several senior roles within the Financial Intelligence Unit of Seychelles, working in legal policy, operations, and external relations. Earlier in her career, she also worked with the National Assembly of Seychelles and contributed to the establishment of University of Seychelles.

Before her appointment, Hall served as Chief Compliance Officer at Nouvobanq.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Business, Finance and Economics from University of Manchester and a Diploma in Governance, Risk and Compliance. She is also a certified assessor of standards set by the Financial Action Task Force.

At the international level, Hall has served on the Executive Committee of the Egmont Group of Financial Intelligence Units and previously chaired the Heads of FIU Forum of the Eastern and Southern Africa Anti-Money Laundering Group.

The appointment comes as Seychelles continues efforts to strengthen its financial governance framework and maintain compliance with international standards on combating money laundering and terrorist financing.

02/06/2026

Tanzania’s President Begins Official Visit to Russia to Strengthen Economic Ties

DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania — President Samia Suluhu Hassan has departed for an official state visit to Russia at the invitation of President Vladimir Putin, in a trip aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and expanding economic cooperation between the two countries.

The visit marks only the second state visit to Russia by a Tanzanian head of state, following the historic trip undertaken by Julius Nyerere in October 1969.

“This visit is particularly important as we prepare to begin implementing the National Vision 2050, which calls for greater participation of the private sector,” President Samia said before her departure.

“We will hold discussions with our hosts aimed at strengthening cooperation in strategic sectors that directly affect the lives of our citizens,” she added.

The Tanzanian leader also said she would participate in business and investment forums to promote opportunities available in Tanzania and expand access to the Russian market for Tanzanian products.

“We will showcase the opportunities available in our country while opening up more market opportunities for Tanzanian products in Russia,” Samia said.

The visit is expected to bolster diplomatic and economic ties between Tanzania and Russia as both countries seek to deepen cooperation in trade, investment, and other key sectors.

02/06/2026

South Sudan Aviation Authority Rejects Airline's Claim of Planned Operations Resumption

JUBA, South Sudan — The South Sudan Civil Aviation Authority (SSCAA) has dismissed claims by South Supreme Airlines that it is preparing to resume operations, saying the carrier remains suspended over unresolved safety concerns.

In a statement, the regulator said the airline's suspension was imposed following inspections and compliance assessments that identified safety deficiencies requiring corrective action before any return to service.

The authority clarified that South Supreme Airlines had only been granted access to manage and secure its aircraft, equipment, and other assets, and had not received authorization to resume commercial flights.

"Flight operations remain suspended until all identified safety deficiencies have been satisfactorily addressed and approved by the relevant State of Registry," the SSCAA said.

The aviation regulator also said it had not received any official report or evidence to support allegations that one of the airline's aircraft had been struck by bullets.

The statement comes amid uncertainty over the status of the carrier's fleet and operations following the suspension.

The SSCAA further instructed owners of grounded aircraft with outstanding safety, airworthiness, or certification issues to remove or properly dispose of them in accordance with the South Sudan Civil Aviation Regulations 2026.

South Supreme Airlines has not publicly responded to the authority's latest statement.

The regulator said the measures are intended to uphold aviation safety standards and ensure compliance with national and international civil aviation requirements.

02/06/2026

Ruto Defends US-Backed Ebola Quarantine Facility, Urges Leaders Not to Politicise Public Health Measures

WAJIR, Kenya — President William Ruto has defended the establishment of a United States-supported Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base, saying it is part of Kenya's broader disease preparedness strategy and not an exceptional arrangement.

Speaking during a media roundtable at Wajir State Lodge, Ruto said the government is taking all necessary measures to prevent, detect, and manage potential Ebola cases, while strengthening the country's public health response capabilities in collaboration with international partners, including the United States.

"The health and safety of Kenyans remain our top priority," Ruto said, adding that Kenya's longstanding partnership with the United States has been instrumental in responding to major public health challenges, including HIV/AIDS, COVID-19, and Ebola.

The president explained that the Laikipia facility is one of 23 quarantine and treatment centres established under Kenya's disease preparedness framework. Other facilities are located at Kenyatta National Hospital, National Police Service Hospital, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital, and Alupe Hospital, among others.

Ruto urged political leaders and stakeholders to avoid politicising public health interventions, stressing that the measures are intended solely to protect lives and enhance Kenya's ability to respond to health emergencies.

He noted that similar partnerships with international partners proved critical during the COVID-19 pandemic and continue to strengthen the country's preparedness against emerging health threats.

Beyond health matters, the president also highlighted progress on key development projects in Northern Kenya, saying the government remains committed to unlocking the region's economic potential, expanding opportunities, and accelerating inclusive growth.

01/06/2026

South Sudan Vice President Pledges Support for Service Delivery in Northern Bahr el Ghazal

AWEIL, June 1, 2026 — Vice President Hussein Abdelbagi has held discussions with officials from Northern Bahr el Ghazal State focused on security, education, and health challenges in the region.

The meeting took place at the State Council of Ministers in Aweil and was led by Governor Charles Madut Akol. State officials reported that the security situation remains calm and stable, while expressing concern over persistent gaps in basic service delivery.

In response, Abdelbagi said the national government is aware of the challenges and remains committed to strengthening public services across South Sudan.

He pointed to ongoing reforms in the education sector, including a teacher verification and screening exercise conducted in Northern Bahr el Ghazal and Lakes State, aimed at removing ghost workers, addressing unqualified staff, and improving recruitment standards.

The Vice President also reaffirmed government plans to expand vocational and technical training programmes to equip young people with practical skills for employment and self-reliance.

The meeting concluded with commitments from both national and state leadership to enhance coordination in addressing development priorities and improving service delivery for citizens.

01/06/2026

Sierra Leone Police Extend Community Policing Drive to Gbanti Chiefdom

GBANTI CHIEFDOM, Karene District — June 1, 2026 — The Sierra Leone Police have intensified their community policing outreach in Karene District, with a sensitisation engagement held in Gbanti Chiefdom aimed at strengthening cooperation between residents and law enforcement.

The outreach, led by the Local Unit Commander of the Kamakwie Police Division, Superintendent John S. Koroma, took place in Makonray Village on Sunday, May 31.

The initiative forms part of the police reform agenda to transition from a force-driven approach to a service-oriented model focused on building trust, improving communication, and enhancing collaboration with communities in maintaining peace and security.

Addressing community leaders, youth representatives and local stakeholders, Superintendent Koroma stressed the importance of active community involvement in security matters, particularly in areas where police presence is limited. He encouraged residents to report security concerns promptly to support crime prevention efforts.

He also advocated for stronger community participation through dialogue and consultation, describing such engagement as essential for effective and responsive policing.

The meeting brought together representatives from all ten sections of Gbanti Chiefdom, including traditional leaders and youth groups, who expressed support for the community policing initiative.

Superintendent Koroma further proposed the establishment of a Local Policing Partnership Board, saying it would enhance trust between police and residents while supporting informal conflict resolution mechanisms.

He emphasised that effective community policing depends on cooperation between law enforcement and the public in sharing timely and reliable information.

Responding on behalf of the community, Paramount Chief Alhaji Kandeh Paria II welcomed the initiative and raised concerns over the lack of a nearby police facility, noting that residents often travel long distances to access services in neighbouring Kamaranka Chiefdom.

He said the community had already identified land for a potential police post and appealed for support from the Sierra Leone Police to help establish the facility.

The engagement ended with both police and community leaders pledging continued cooperation to strengthen security and improve service delivery in the chiefdom.

01/06/2026

Abiy Ahmed Praises Ethiopians for “Historic Democratic Participation” in Election Remarks

ADDIS ABABA, June 1, 2026 — Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has praised citizens for what he described as their resilience and commitment to democratic participation, following recent elections.

In a statement released in Amharic and Afan Oromo and translated into English, Abiy described Ethiopians as “extraordinary and remarkable people,” saying their participation demonstrated deep patriotism, cultural strength, and commitment to the national interest.

He said the electorate had once again shown the world that Ethiopia is a nation with “a rich culture” and citizens capable of safeguarding the common good.

Highlighting turnout conditions, the prime minister pointed to voters who endured difficult circumstances, including harsh weather, long queues, and social obligations such as weddings, funerals, and childbirth, yet still participated in the vote.

He also commended elderly voters, persons with disabilities, and parents carrying infants, saying their participation reflected determination “against all odds.”

Abiy further said the election demonstrated national resilience in the face of challenges and what he described as intimidation and hardship, adding that such participation contributed to both democracy and national continuity.

He concluded by congratulating those elected and urging them to serve with integrity, stressing that holding office is a responsibility to a people who have “paid a great price for the democratic system.”

01/06/2026

South Sudan Rejects US Remarks on UN Sanctions Regime, Calls for Constructive Engagement

JUBA, June 1, 2026 — The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of South Sudan has rejected recent remarks made by the United States Alternate Representative for Special Political Affairs, Jennifer Lockett, following a UN Security Council vote renewing sanctions on South Sudan.

In a press statement issued on Monday, the ministry said it “categorically rejects” any characterisations it claims misrepresent the leadership of President Salva Kiir Mayardit, adding that he remains committed to implementing the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan.

The government said it appreciates the United States as a long-standing partner since the Comprehensive Peace Agreement and independence, but insisted that some of the recent statements “do not accurately reflect current realities.”

While acknowledging ongoing political, economic, and humanitarian challenges, the ministry described South Sudan as a young post-conflict nation undergoing a complex transition, adding that regional instability and global economic pressures have also affected its domestic situation.

The statement defended progress made in implementing the peace agreement, including political consultations, security arrangements, and regional cooperation, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to accelerating reforms.

It also strongly opposed continued sanctions and the arms embargo, arguing that such measures are “counterproductive” and weaken state institutions rather than improving security conditions.

According to the ministry, sustainable peace can only be achieved through strengthening accountable national institutions rather than restricting their capacity, adding that sanctions have not produced the intended security improvements.

The government urged Washington to adopt a more “constructive engagement” approach focused on dialogue, technical assistance, and cooperation, and reiterated its readiness to work closely with international partners.

It reaffirmed its commitment to completing the political transition, advancing democratic reforms, and fully implementing the peace agreement, while maintaining openness to diplomatic engagement with the United States and other partners.

Emmanuel Patrick Laku Tombe

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