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Palestinian-Israeli Truce: Over 90 Prisoners Released in Hostage-Prisoner Exchange

by Times
written by Times

Israel has released 90 Palestinian prisoners as part of a long-anticipated truce brokered to end over 15 months of conflict in Gaza. The agreement followed Hamas’s release of three Israeli hostages on Sunday, marking the first exchange under the ceasefire.

Hostage and Prisoner Exchange

The three Israeli hostages—Emily Damari, Romi Gonen, and Doron Steinbrecher—were handed over to the Red Cross in Gaza City by Hamas militants. The women, held captive for 471 days, were reunited with their families and received medical evaluations, with doctors confirming their stable condition.

Shortly after, buses carrying Palestinian prisoners departed from Ofer prison near Ramallah in the West Bank. Jubilant celebrations erupted in Beitunia, where crowds cheered, waved Hamas flags, and lit fireworks as the freed inmates arrived.

Amanda Abu Sharkh, a 23-year-old resident, expressed the collective sentiment: “All the prisoners being released today feel like family to us, even if they’re not blood relatives.”

Israeli authorities confirmed that the exchange involves the planned release of 33 Israeli hostages and up to 1,900 Palestinian prisoners. Among them are over 230 Palestinians serving life sentences for deadly attacks, many of whom will be deported to Qatar or Turkey, according to Israeli sources.

Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

The truce has allowed thousands of displaced Palestinians to return to their homes across Gaza, many of which have been reduced to rubble. In Jabalia, residents like Rana Mohsen expressed bittersweet relief at returning: “There is no home left, just rubble, but it’s our home.”

The United Nations and other humanitarian organizations have begun delivering critical aid to the region. The World Food Programme aims to reach one million Gazans as quickly as possible, while the World Health Organization has called for systematic access to restore the health infrastructure decimated by the war.

Ceasefire Dynamics

The truce, mediated by Qatar, the US, and Egypt, includes stipulations for a gradual prisoner-hostage swap, increased humanitarian aid, and potential negotiations for a permanent ceasefire. However, uncertainties remain as Hamas and Israel cautiously adhere to the terms.

Hamas has stated that its commitment depends on Israel’s adherence to the agreement. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu referred to the truce as a “temporary ceasefire,” maintaining that Israel reserves the right to resume military actions if necessary.

A Pivotal Moment

This ceasefire coincides with significant global attention, taking effect on the eve of Donald Trump’s inauguration for a second term as US president. Trump has claimed credit for the deal, telling NBC, “I told Netanyahu the war has to end.”

The truce marks a critical juncture in the protracted Israeli-Palestinian conflict, offering a glimmer of hope amid a backdrop of devastation. However, the road to a lasting peace remains fraught with challenges as both sides navigate this fragile agreement.

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AFRICANews

Israel Approves Gaza Ceasefire and Hostage Release Deal

by Times
written by Times

On January 17, 2025, Israel’s cabinet approved a significant ceasefire and hostage release deal, signaling a temporary halt to one of Gaza’s deadliest conflicts. The ceasefire, set to begin Sunday, comes after intense negotiations led by mediators from Qatar, the United States, and Egypt. The agreement includes the release of hostages held by Hamas since its October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners detained in Israeli jails.

Key Aspects of the Ceasefire Agreement

  1. Hostage Exchange:
    • Israel will release 95 Palestinian prisoners, including 69 women, 16 men, and 10 minors, starting Sunday.
    • Hamas has pledged to release an initial group of 33 hostages, assumed to be alive by Israeli authorities.
  2. Duration and Conditions:
    • The truce, initially set for 42 days, will facilitate the safe return of displaced Palestinians to their homes.
    • Israeli forces will withdraw from densely populated areas in Gaza to allow residents to return.
  3. International Involvement:
    • Mediators, including U.S. President Joe Biden’s envoy Brett McGurk and former U.S. President Donald Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff, played crucial roles in finalizing the deal.
    • A joint operations room in Cairo has been established to ensure compliance with the truce terms.
  4. Humanitarian Challenges:
    • Gaza, devastated by Israeli bombardments that have killed over 46,000 people, faces an immense rebuilding task. Humanitarian workers warn of the dire conditions for the nearly 2.4 million displaced residents.

Reactions and Developments

  • Displaced Palestinians: Residents expressed mixed emotions, with many eager to return to their homes despite widespread destruction. “If I die on my land, it would be better than being displaced,” said Nasr al-Gharabli, a resident of Gaza City.
  • Hostage Families: Israeli families await the return of their loved ones with cautious optimism, as doubts remain about the condition of the hostages.
  • Political Divisions: Some Israeli ministers opposed the deal, with one threatening to resign. However, Netanyahu’s office defended the agreement, stating it supports the war’s objectives while addressing the humanitarian crisis.
  • International Leaders: French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that French-Israeli citizens are among those to be released. Meanwhile, President Biden expressed hope that the second phase of the deal could lead to a permanent end to the war.

The Road Ahead

The ceasefire offers a brief respite to a region battered by prolonged conflict. However, with displaced Gazans struggling to rebuild their lives and political tensions simmering, the agreement faces significant challenges. Humanitarian aid remains a priority, and the success of the truce will depend on sustained international coordination and mutual compliance by all parties.

As the ceasefire begins, the global community will closely watch its implementation, hoping it marks a step toward lasting peace in one of the world’s most conflict-ridden regions.

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AFRICANews

Christmas in Africa: A Cultural Celebration with High Spending

by Uganda Times
written by Uganda Times

In Africa, Christmas transcends its religious roots, blossoming into a vibrant cultural festivity that unites families and communities. Across the continent, the holiday is marked by heartfelt traditions, including family reunions, the exchange of gifts, elaborate meals, and special church services. However, these cherished customs often come with a hefty price tag, especially in economies battling inflation and currency devaluation.

Rising Costs of Celebrations

In Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, inflation has caused a steep rise in the cost of Christmas essentials such as rice, chicken, and cooking oil. A modest holiday meal now costs more than twice what it did a year ago. Similarly, in Kenya, transportation costs soar as urban dwellers travel to rural areas to join their families, placing additional financial strain on households.

Christmas Spending Trends Across Africa

Despite economic challenges, Christmas remains an unmissable celebration for many African families. A significant portion of household income is often dedicated to the holiday, covering gifts, sumptuous meals, decorations, and travel. This spending underscores the cultural and emotional value of the festive season.

The Role of Festive Decorations

Holiday decorations are an integral part of the Christmas experience. In 2022, Cameroon led the continent in spending on festive decor, with families allocating up to 50% of their holiday budget to adorn their homes. Rwanda followed closely, dedicating 38% of its Christmas expenditure to decorations, highlighting the importance of creating a festive ambiance.

Top 5 African Countries with the Highest Christmas Spending

A recent report by WorldRemit reveals the average cost of Christmas celebrations across African nations. These expenditures include meals, gifts, and decorations:

RankCountryAverage Cost of Christmas ($)
1Nigeria$309
2Rwanda$258
3Kenya$212
4Zimbabwe$209
5South Africa$172

Insights into Spending Habits

  • Nigeria: Leading the chart, Nigerians spare no expense on food and gifts, prioritizing unforgettable holiday experiences despite inflationary pressures.
  • Rwanda: Renowned for its vibrant decorations, families invest heavily in aesthetics while enjoying traditional meals.
  • Kenya: Travel takes center stage, as many urban residents journey to their rural homes for communal celebrations.
  • Zimbabwe: Families balance food, gifts, and travel costs to preserve the holiday spirit amid economic hardships.
  • South Africa: Known for its diverse cultural traditions, spending focuses on hearty feasts and decorative efforts.

Cultural Importance of Christmas

The financial challenges of celebrating Christmas vary across African nations, but the cultural significance remains consistent. For Africans, the holiday season represents family unity, communal traditions, and shared joy. The emphasis on togetherness and creating lasting memories often outweighs the economic hurdles.

Final Reflections

Christmas in Africa is a rich tapestry of cultural heritage, familial bonds, and festive cheer. Despite the rising cost of living and economic uncertainties, African families approach the season with determination and generosity. The holiday becomes a time of connection and celebration, a testament to the continent’s resilient and spirited approach to life.

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AFRICA

AU Mission Transfers Ceel Eglow Base to Somali National Army Amid Troop Drawdown

by Jordan Luke
written by Jordan Luke

The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (Atmis) announced on Monday the transfer of the Ceel Eglow military base in the Middle Shabelle region to the Somali National Army (SNA). This move is part of Atmis’ ongoing withdrawal of troops from Somalia.

Ceel Eglow is the third base to be handed over in Phase Three of the Atmis troop drawdown. Atmis Sector Five Commander Oscal Hatungimana praised the cooperation between Atmis forces, local residents, and international partners in combating the Al Shabaab extremist group, which has been active in the region.

The strategically important Ceel Eglow base, guarded by Atmis Burundi troops since 2019, secures the main supply routes between Mogadishu and Jowhar, facilitating both military and humanitarian operations.

The third phase of the Atmis drawdown aligns with United Nations Security Council Resolutions 2628 (2022), 2670 (2022), and 2710 (2023), mandating the withdrawal of 4,000 troops by the end of June. The AU Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) advocates a phased withdrawal to prevent a security vacuum.

In response to a request from Somalia in May, the AUPSC supports a phased approach to the Phase Three drawdown, allowing Mogadishu to retain half of the troops initially scheduled for withdrawal by June’s end. The AUPSC emphasizes that the transition from Atmis to its successor mission must be seamless to avoid a security lapse between December 31 and January 1, 2025.

The AUPSC cautions that ongoing operations against Al Shabaab and the full implementation of the Phase Three drawdown could create capability gaps, potentially impacting the security of Somalia and the broader region.

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AFRICA

The Success of the Ojude Oba Festival Celebrating Culture and Economic Growth

by Jordan Luke
written by Jordan Luke

The annual Ojude Oba Festival, a vibrant showcase of Ijebu culture and tradition, recently concluded with resounding success. Thousands of participants and visitors adorned in elaborate traditional attire, captivated audiences with dances, music, and impressive equestrian displays. The festival underscored the economic potential of cultural traditions by empowering local businesses, service providers, artists, and artisans across Ogun, Lagos, and other states in South West Nigeria.

Ogun State Governor, Adedapo Abiodun, MFR, emphasized the festival’s potential for economic and social development through tourism. He committed to elevating the Ojude Oba Festival to a global stage, envisioning its recognition on the international tourism calendar and support from the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

A key element of the festival’s legacy is the Regberegbe system, a tradition of age-grade solidarity and mutual support. Originating from communal labor practices, Regberegbe has evolved into a symbol of community cooperation, fostering social bonds and collective responsibility. This unique social structure empowers individuals and has significantly contributed to the resilience and development of the Ijebu community for centuries.

FCMB Group Plc, a major sponsor of the Ojude Oba Festival, acknowledges its substantial contribution to social cohesion and development. By celebrating shared cultural heritage, promoting unity among diverse groups, and strengthening community bonds, the festival fosters a conducive environment for socioeconomic growth.

Ladi Balogun, Group Chief Executive of FCMB Group Plc, highlighted in his goodwill message that the festival attracts visitors from across Nigeria and the diaspora, boosting trade and tourism in Ijebuland, Ogun State, and Nigeria. He encouraged the Ijebu people to embrace the festival’s spirit of togetherness and use it as a catalyst for further development and inspiration for younger generations.

Chief Executive Officer, Metropolitan Motors Limited, Dr. Olutoyin Okeowo; Group Chief Executive, FCMB Group Plc, Mr. Ladi Balogun and a Director of FCMB Group, Professor Oluwatoyin Ashiru, during the Ojude-Oba festival held in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State on June 18, 2024.

This year’s Ojude Oba Festival saw the participation of 90 Regberegbe groups, a significant increase from 76 in 2023. This surge reflects a rise in social cohesion, essential for promoting unity and peaceful coexistence within the community.

Adewale Adenugba, CEO of Blooms Hotel in Ijebu-Ode, spoke on the festival’s economic impact: “The festival has significantly boosted business activities across Ijebuland over the years, coinciding with the Muslim Eid-el-Kabr celebration when many Ijebus and their friends return home. Hotels in Ijebu-Ode and surrounding towns experience full occupancy, and relaxation centers see increased activity. Artisans, traders, and vendors of various items, including festival paraphernalia, food, drinks, and transportation services, enjoy brisk business and substantial income. Aggregating these, the festival generates billions in revenue, benefiting not only Ijebu-Ode and Ogun State but also Nigeria. I urge the government to leverage this platform to further promote tourism.”

FCMB Group Plc, a steadfast supporter of the Ojude Oba Festival for over 20 years, is committed to fostering inclusive and sustainable growth within its communities by building a supportive ecosystem connecting people, capital, and markets across Africa.

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AFRICA

Burkina Faso Junta Leader Denies Coup Attempt Amid Deadly Insurgent Attack

by Jordan Luke
written by Jordan Luke

According to a Reuters report, approximately 100 soldiers were killed in an attack by al Qaeda-linked insurgents on a Burkina Faso military base near the Niger border. The attack sparked immediate speculation of a coup attempt against the country’s military government, which itself came to power through a coup. However, Capt Ibrahim Traoré, the junta leader, refuted these claims in a national TV address.

Speaking publicly for the first time since the incident, Traoré stated that Burkina Faso had initiated an operation in response to the attack and had sent reinforcements to combat the insurgents. He did not address the al Qaeda involvement directly. “It’s absolutely not the case. We are here,” Traoré assured, addressing the crowd gathered outside the offices of the state-run RTB Television.

This statement was in response to concerns about his safety after gunfire was heard near the presidential residence and a rocket shell landed close to RTB’s headquarters in Ouagadougou on June 12. “The incident happened while we were at the council of ministers,” Traoré confirmed. He explained that the rocket shell resulted from an accidental discharge by the unit stationed at RTB to protect the TV station’s staff, noting that there were no casualties.

A Reuters source indicated that Russian and Malian reinforcements had been brought in over the past week to bolster Capt Ibrahim Traoré’s security. The neighboring junta-led governments in the region have increasingly relied on Russian support over Western assistance for security amid widespread political instability and Islamist insurgencies.

Between June 15 and June 18, a Russian-registered cargo jet made seven flights to Ouagadougou from Gao and Bamako in Mali, as per a Reuters analysis of FlightRadar24 flight monitoring data.

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AFRICANewsUKWorld

British Runner Russ Cook Conquers Africa: Completes Epic Journey from South to North in 352 Days

by Times
written by Times

Russ Cook, the intrepid runner, has successfully reached the northernmost point of Africa after nearly a year since embarking on his ambitious journey from the continent’s southern tip.

Amidst a backdrop of rocky terrain alongside the Mediterranean in northern Tunisia, Cook was met with enthusiastic cheers from a crowd of supporters who had gathered to witness his remarkable accomplishment.

Having traversed over 16,000 kilometers (approximately 9,940 miles) spanning across 16 different countries in 352 days, Cook is believed to be the first individual to achieve such a feat.

Expressing his weariness, albeit modestly, Cook acknowledged, “I’m a little bit tired,” which hardly captures the magnitude of his physical and mental exertion throughout the journey.

The 27-year-old endurance athlete, hailing from Worthing in southern England and affectionately known as “Hardest Geezer” on social media, embarked on his epic journey from Cape Agulhas in South Africa on April 22, 2023.

His goal was to complete the expedition in 240 days, averaging more than a marathon’s distance daily.

However, Cook encountered numerous obstacles along the way, including a harrowing gunpoint robbery in Angola where he and his team lost money, passports, and equipment.

In Nigeria, he faced a setback due to back pain, and his progress was nearly thwarted by visa complications in Algeria, only resolved through diplomatic intervention from the Algerian embassy in the UK.

For Cook, whose personal struggles with mental health have been mitigated through running, this journey adds to his list of remarkable achievements, having previously run approximately 3,000 kilometers (around 1,860 miles) from Istanbul to Worthing in 68 days.

Beyond personal triumph, Cook’s African run has raised over £690,000 (approximately $870,000) for two charitable organizations: The Running Charity, which supports homeless youth, and Sandblast, aiding displaced individuals from Western Sahara.

Reflecting on his arduous journey, Cook expressed gratitude for the support from his loved ones and the camaraderie of fellow runners who joined him for the final stretch.

Despite enduring physical pain, he remained resilient, remarking, “My body is in a lot of pain. But one more day, I’m not about to complain.”

As he looked forward to celebrating his accomplishment with a beach party featuring a performance by British band Soft Play and indulging in strawberry daiquiris, Cook’s journey stands as a testament to human endurance and compassion.

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AFRICANews

IMF Expands Egypt’s Financial Assistance Package to $8 Billion Amid Macroeconomic Challenges

by Jordan Luke
written by Jordan Luke

Egypt’s economic prospects receive a significant boost as the International Monetary Fund’s executive board approves an expansion of the Extended Fund Facility arrangement from its initial $3 billion to $8 billion, as reported by Bloomberg.

This development paves the way for an immediate disbursement of $820 million, aiming to address the pressing macroeconomic challenges facing Egypt. IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva emphasized the complexity of managing these challenges amidst spillovers from recent conflicts in Gaza and Israel.

Georgieva highlighted the significance of recent measures taken by Egypt to address macroeconomic imbalances, such as exchange rate unification, clearing the foreign exchange demand backlog, and implementing rigorous monetary and fiscal policies. These steps, though difficult, are deemed crucial for Egypt’s economic progress, according to Georgieva.

Egypt’s new IMF agreement, announced on March 6, follows the implementation of a long-awaited currency flotation, resulting in a significant depreciation of the pound against the dollar. This move was supported by a $35 billion deal with the United Arab Emirates, marking the largest inward investment in Egypt’s history.

Geopolitical conflicts, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the Gaza crisis, have further strained Egypt’s economy. Increased wheat and oil import prices and reduced tourism and shipping through the Suez Canal have impacted foreign currency reserves.

With Egypt ranking as the IMF’s second-biggest borrower after Argentina, additional financing of $1.2 billion is anticipated from the lender. The devaluation, coupled with ongoing economic reforms, has attracted investors to Egypt’s local bonds, driving unprecedented levels of investment into the country.

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AFRICACrime & JusticeFeaturedFeaturedNews

Binance Executive Escapes Custody Amid Nigerian Cryptocurrency Exchange Investigation

by Times
written by Times

A high-ranking executive of the cryptocurrency exchange Binance has reportedly fled custody in Nigeria as authorities intensify a criminal investigation into the platform’s alleged involvement in money laundering activities.

Nadeem Anjarwalla, Binance’s regional manager for Africa, managed to escape Nigerian custody using a smuggled passport, according to statements from Nigeria’s National Security Adviser’s office on Monday.

Nigeria, known for having Africa’s largest cryptocurrency economy by trade volume, has been grappling with soaring inflation and a devaluing local currency, leading many citizens to turn to cryptocurrencies for financial transactions.

Zakari Mijinyawa, a spokesperson for Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, announced that the personnel responsible for Anjarwalla’s custody have been apprehended, and investigations are underway to determine the circumstances surrounding his escape.

Anjarwalla’s escape came to light after the Abuja-based Premium Times newspaper reported that he fled from a guest house in the capital city, taking advantage of a momentary lapse in surveillance while being allowed entry to a nearby mosque for prayers.

Anjarwalla, who holds British and Kenyan citizenship, was initially detained alongside a colleague, Tigran Gambaryan, a US citizen, on February 26 during Nigeria’s crackdown on Binance.

While Anjarwalla managed to evade custody, Gambaryan remains in detention. Both executives were scheduled to appear in court on April 4 as part of the ongoing legal proceedings.

Binance, reacting to the investigation and accusations of money laundering and terrorism financing, halted trading with the Nigerian naira currency on its platform in early March. However, authorities have yet to present evidence publicly to substantiate these claims.

In addition to the money laundering allegations, Nigeria’s tax agency has levied a four-count charge against Binance for tax evasion and complicity in facilitating customers’ tax evasion through its platform.

The escape of the Binance executive has added a new dimension to the legal saga surrounding cryptocurrency exchanges in Nigeria, prompting intensified scrutiny and efforts to address regulatory concerns in the country’s crypto ecosystem.

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AFRICAFeaturedFeaturedNews

Bassirou Diomaye Faye: From Prison to Presidency in Senegal’s Political Drama

by Times
written by Times

Bassirou Diomaye Faye, once a relatively unknown figure outside his opposition party Pastef, has emerged as Senegal’s next president.

His journey from a prison cell to the highest office in the country reflects the twists and turns of Senegal’s political landscape.

Faye’s rise to prominence began when Ousmane Sonko, the firebrand leader of Pastef, was detained and charged with insurrection, effectively sidelining him from the presidential race to succeed President Macky Sall.

This development paved the way for Faye to step into the spotlight and eventually claim victory in the election, coincidentally on his 44th birthday.

Unlike Sonko, known for his charisma and appeal to disillusioned youths, Faye brings a more reserved demeanor to the political stage. However, Sonko’s endorsement of Faye played a crucial role in consolidating support within Pastef despite a less emotive endorsement compared to Sonko’s usual passionate rhetoric.

Faye’s background as a tax inspector and his academic achievements, including a law degree and a master’s from Dakar’s Cheikh Anta Diop University, add depth to his profile.

Despite facing legal challenges and spending time in prison, Faye remained steadfast in his political aspirations, ultimately gaining traction among voters.

The coalition formed around Faye’s candidacy, including over 100 parties and key figures like former prime minister Aminata Toure, contributed significantly to his electoral success.

The slogan “Diomaye mooy Sonko” (“Diomaye is Sonko” in Wolof) encapsulated the unity within the opposition movement rallying behind Faye.

The recent general amnesty law, aimed at easing political tensions, saw Faye and Sonko released from prison, symbolizing a new chapter in Senegal’s political narrative.

Faye’s campaign, marked by enthusiastic rallies and widespread support, resonated with voters looking for change and integrity in leadership.

As Faye prepares to assume the presidency, questions linger about the role Sonko might play in the new government. Faye, however, remains focused on leading a coalition-driven administration, emphasizing that in a presidential election, only one person emerges as the president, signaling his intent to chart an independent course for Senegal’s future.

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