Author: WAJ Team

Zambia’s central bank has unveiled a new series of banknotes and coins, marking a significant step in the country’s financial evolution. The redesigned currency, launched on Monday, aims to symbolize Zambia’s economic progress and cultural heritage. A Fresh Look for Zambia’s Currency The newly introduced currency set features six banknotes and six coins, each meticulously designed to mirror the nation’s diverse natural and economic landscapes. Officials emphasized that the artistic design is inspired by Zambia’s abundant wildlife, lush plant life, and the breathtaking waterfalls that have become synonymous with the country’s scenic beauty. At the Lusaka event, Finance and National…

The Democratic Republic of Congo’s government and the M23 rebel group are set to engage in direct negotiations on April 9 in Doha, according to sources from both sides. The meeting is part of Qatar’s ongoing efforts to mediate one of Central Africa’s deadliest conflicts. This will be the first face-to-face meeting between Kinshasa and M23 since the rebel group seized two major cities in eastern Congo. The rapid offensive has left thousands dead and displaced hundreds of thousands. A Congolese official confirmed the talks but warned they could be derailed if M23 does not cooperate. A representative from the…

Uganda has now recorded 4,810 confirmed cases of mpox and 37 deaths since the outbreak was declared eight months ago, according to the Ministry of Health. The latest situation report, issued on Saturday, confirmed 13 new infections and six additional deaths in the past 24 hours. While no fatalities have been reported among healthcare workers, authorities warn that cases are rising sharply, particularly among young adults in urban areas. “The surge in mpox cases has continued, with a peak observed in March 2025. The most affected demographic is individuals aged 25-29,” the report stated, emphasizing the need for targeted vaccination…

Gabon’s presidential campaign season began on Saturday, with candidates working to win public support before the April 12 elections. The National Commission for the Organization and Coordination of Elections and Referendum announced that the 14-day campaign period will end on April 11. Eight candidates are competing for the presidency. Transition President Oligui Nguema, who led the military coup that removed President Ali Bongo in August 2023, is seeking to extend his leadership. Alain-Claude Bilie-By-Nze, former prime minister under Bongo’s government, is seen as his strongest competitor. Zenaba Gninga Chaning, the only female candidate, is also in the race, hoping to…

Sudan’s army chief, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, has rejected any chance of reconciliation with the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). In a video statement on Saturday, he vowed to crush the group. Burhan made it clear that the army would not negotiate or compromise, stressing its commitment to restoring national unity and stability. However, he suggested that RSF fighters who surrender and “acknowledge the truth” may be granted amnesty. This offer is directed mainly at those in rebel-held areas who choose to lay down their arms. Army Captures Key Market in Omdurman, Gains Control of Capital Area On the same day,…

Protests have broken out across northern Nigeria following the brutal killing of 16 travelers in Edo State, where a mob falsely accused them of being kidnappers. The attack, which took place late Friday, has sparked nationwide condemnation and renewed concerns over rising mob violence and misinformation. Fatal Mistake Leads to Tragedy The victims, mostly Hausa hunters, were traveling from Port Harcourt to Kano for the Eid al-Fitr holiday when their vehicle was stopped near midnight by members of the Edo State Security Corps and local vigilantes. Upon discovering locally made hunting guns—a common tool among northern hunters—the vigilantes suspected them…

The United States has suspended most nonimmigrant visa services at its embassy in Chad for 90 days, citing security concerns. The announcement, made by the U.S. State Department on Thursday, affects many Chadians planning to travel to the U.S. for business, tourism, or education. The decision follows an executive order signed by U.S. President Donald Trump on January 20. The order directs U.S. agencies to strengthen security checks for foreign travelers and review visa policies. By March 21, U.S. officials must submit a list of countries that could face partial or full travel suspensions. Chad is one of more than…

Zambia’s economy posted stronger-than-expected growth last year, exceeding projections from both the government and the International Monetary Fund, driven by a sharp rise in output during the final quarter. According to preliminary figures, gross domestic product expanded by 4/percent in 2023, down from 5.4/percent the previous year, Acting Statistician-General Sheila Mudenda announced in Lusaka on Thursday. This result far outpaced the 1.2/percent growth anticipated by the IMF and the administration of President Hakainde Hichilema. Economic activity surged in the last three months of the year, with GDP rising by 8.6/percent—the fastest quarterly growth rate in more than a decade. The…

Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio reiterated his support for a two-state solution as the only sustainable path to achieving lasting peace in the Middle East. His remarks came during a joint press conference with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in Cairo, where he also reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s commitment to strengthening ties with Egypt. The two leaders held discussions on a wide range of issues, focusing on enhancing cooperation in trade, agriculture, education, health, infrastructure, energy, defense, fisheries, and tourism. President Bio encouraged increased private sector participation between the two countries and urged businesses to explore investment opportunities that could…

Malawi will restart operations at the Kayelekera Uranium Mine in June 2025. This move comes after more than ten years since production stopped because of low global prices. Minister of Mining Kenneth Zikhale Ng’oma announced the decision during a meeting in Lilongwe with executives from Lotus Africa Limited. The government owns 15/percent of the mine, while Lotus holds the remaining 85/percent. Lotus Africa Limited took over the project from Paladin Africa Limited and secured a new mining license in 2024. The Kayelekera Mine is located in Karonga District, near the border with Tanzania. The company aims to bring the mine…

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) is facing its worst hunger crisis, with 28 million people struggling to access food. The United Nations says the conflict between government forces and Rwandan-backed M23 rebels has worsened the situation, especially in the east. Crisis Worsens as Fighting Continues The UN’s World Food Programme (WFP) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) report that 2.5 million more people have fallen into acute hunger since renewed fighting began in December. “The situation is dire as harvests are lost, food prices rise, and millions become more vulnerable,” said Athman Mravili, FAO’s interim representative in…

South African authorities have launched an investigation into a suspected human trafficking case after 32 Ethiopian nationals escaped from captivity in Lombardy East, Johannesburg. The victims, some of whom had been held for nearly a year, managed to break free from the house where they were allegedly confined. Their escape has once again highlighted the challenges authorities face in combating human smuggling and illegal detention of foreign nationals. Neighbors Raise the Alarm The ordeal came to light after concerned neighbors reported unusual noises coming from the property. According to local reports, neighbors heard loud banging on doors and the sound…

Morocco has raised €2 billion ($2.2 billion) through a euro-denominated bond sale, exceeding initial expectations by €500 million. This was the country’s first eurobond issuance since 2020, attracting over €6.75 billion in total bids. The strong investor interest highlights growing confidence in Morocco’s economy. The bond sale was structured in two parts. The four-year bond was priced at 155 basis points over midswaps, lower than the initial guidance of 190 basis points. The 10-year bond settled at 215 basis points above midswaps, also tighter than expected. BNP Paribas, Citigroup, Deutsche Bank, and JPMorgan Chase served as bookrunners, while Lazard acted…

The United States has appointed Leo Brent Bozell III as its new ambassador to South Africa, filling the position left vacant after Reuben Brigety’s resignation earlier this year. Bozell, a conservative activist and founder of the Media Research Center, is known for his work in monitoring perceived media bias in the US. His nomination was confirmed in a Senate note dated March 24, which was referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. The note officially named him “ambassador extraordinary and plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of South Africa.” Former US President Donald Trump announced the…

Currency stability plays a crucial role in economic growth, shaping investment trends, trade balances, and inflation rates. Several African currencies have maintained strength against the US dollar, reflecting sound economic policies, resource management, and financial discipline. According to the Forbes currency calculator, the ten strongest African currencies as of March 2025 highlight the impact of stable governance, trade partnerships, and diversified economies. These currencies continue to support national economies, fostering growth and resilience in an evolving global financial landscape. 1. Tunisian Dinar (TND) – 3.09 per US Dollar The Tunisian dinar holds the top position as Africa’s strongest currency. Its…

Botswana’s President Duma Boko has signed an agreement to amend the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Treaty. This move advances efforts to establish the SADC Parliament as a formal institution within the regional bloc. The signing, which took place on Wednesday, marks an important step toward strengthening legislative cooperation among SADC’s 16 member states. Speaking at the event, Boko described the decision as a political milestone. He urged member countries to align their laws to address regional challenges more effectively. “This agreement reflects our commitment to deeper regional integration. We must harmonize our laws to tackle cross-border issues together,” Boko…