By Mahlet Fasil @MahletFasil

Addis Abeba, April 13, 2021 –The Federal High Court Lideta Branch, First Constitutional and Anti-terrorism Bench has today told the defendants on Jawar Moahammed et.al file that the court has suspended witness hearing for two more weeks after prosecutors filed an appeal at the Federal Supreme Court on April 9, 2021.

the prosecutor has appealed against this ruling at the Supreme Court, leading to today’s suspension of the start of witness hearing

Federal prosecutor filed the appeal at the Supreme Court after the Federal High Court, on April 6, rejected the prosecutor’s request for a closed-door and behind the curtain witness hearing proceeding, which was scheduled to commence today. In its ruling on April 06, the high court rejected the prosecutor’s request on the grounds that the nature of the threat posed to its witnesses was not backed by sufficient evidence. The court also cited Article 20 of the constitution which states that everyone charged with an offence is entitled to a public hearing before the court of law. However, the court ruled that the prosecutor’s witness hearing should proceed without disclosing the names of the witnesses. However, the prosecutor has appealed
against this ruling at the Supreme Court, leading to today’s
suspension of the start of witness hearing.

In addition, the defense team told the High Court today that they had not received any court order from Supreme Court to appear and respond to the appeal by the federal prosecutor. They also pointed out their clients’ complaint with regard to access to health private health facility, as well as telephone communication with family members of the a ruling passed in previous court hearings, were not implemented by the prison administration.

The 1^st defendant, Jawar Mohammed has appealed to have acess to treatment to undergo dental operation to treat the sores connected to two teeth, as per recommndation from doctors.

The 2nd defendant, Bekele Gerba on his part told the court that defendants would like to physically appear before the Supreme Court to respond to the prosecutor’s appeal. He also asked the court to order the prison administration to provide him with COVID-19 vaccine as he has other health conditions that make him vulnerable.

In response, the judges ruled that the prison administration should facilitate telephone communications between defendants and their families living abroad, as well as facilitate COVID-19 vaccination for defendant Bekele Gerba.

The court also ordered the Jawar’s defense team to submit a doctor’s written prescription for dental surgery at the judge’s office so that the court could give an order on the medical treatment.

The court however dismissed Bekele Gerba’s request for physical attendance at the Supreme Court to respond to the prosecutor’s appeal and instead ruled for defense lawyers to appear in person and for the defendants to follow the proceed through plasma TV.

The court adjourned the next hearing until April 28, subject to the final decision by the Supreme Court on the appeal by the prosecutor on the conduct of witness hearing.

Tuli Bayisa, one of the defense team, told Addis Standard that they have not received the Supreme Court’s order to appear and respond to the appeal by the federal prosecutor until the publication of this news. AS

By Ola Ajayi

SOME bandits have again abducted three women at Onipe Community, Idi Ayunre area of Ibadan on Monday.

According to information gathered, the hoodlums who reportedly hid in the bush suddenly emerged and started shooting to scare people away.

While the shooting was on, the bandits were said to have held the three women hostage before leading them into the thick bush in the area.

One of the kidnap victims was said to have been forced out of a Toyota SUV marked AGL 66 FY.

Two men who reported the case at a police station in Idi Ayunre have the names of the victims as Mrs Okeowo, Mrs Abosede Adebayo and Mrs Bola Ogunrinde.

Though, the victims are yet to be rescued, Vanguard gathered that a team of policemen from Idi Ayunre Divisional Police station, hunters and local vigilante group have been combing nooks and crannies of the area.

The new Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Adewale Osifeso who confirmed the story said other tactical teams had joined the security agents on the trail of the hoodlums.

Also confirming the story, the National President of Soludero Hunters Association of Nigeria, Oba Nureni Ajijola Anabi said he and his men were awaiting directive from the Oyo State Government before they could go for such operation.

“Yes, we heard and a security officer with the state government promised to get in touch with us but we have been trying to call him.”

“We need to be mobilized. First, the thick forest where the kidnappers took their victims to is owned by the government. Also, we don’t have money we can spend. All the achievements recorded so far were possible because of the help we got from Ilaji Farms.”

“As we are now, we are stuck. If we need to enter the bush for the rescue operation, the men with me need to be encouraged. We can’t do so with needed help from the government”, he said.

Related

By Sami Zaptia.

London, 13 April 2021:

Libya’s Food and Drug Control Centre today announced that it has approved the Sputnik V and AstraZeneca anti-Coronavirus vaccines as suitable for human consumption.

During a multi-agency press conference held in Tripoli today, it reported that samples of the two vaccines have undergone regulatory procedure from the documentary to the germinal, physical and chemical laboratory, and the inoculation of mice with it, and accordingly, and after the control measures taken, the samples were found to be in conformity with the specifications and are suitable for human consumption.

	Brand	Quantity	Date of arrival	Note
1	Sputnik V	101,252	040421
2	Oxford AstraZeneca	57,600	080421	Via Covax
3	Sputnik V	100,000	090421
	Total:	258,852

The Food and Drug Control Centre’s announcement comes after the arrival of three batches (two Sputnik V and one AstraZeneca) of anti-Coronavirus vaccine to Libya between 4 and 9 April totalling 258,852 doses.

Libya’s Ministry of Health said further shipments will follow. It expects 12 million doses to arrive over time.

Libya’s population is 6.9 million excluding foreigners and illegal migrants, but the government has vowed to vaccinate all present in Libya irrespective of their legal status.

It will be recalled that 10 April Libya officially launched its vaccination campaign with Prime Minister Abd Alhamid Aldabaiba and his Health Minister Ali Zanati being the first to be vaccinated with their first doses.

The Health Ministry had said the rest of the cabinet would also be vaccinated in the hope that this would reassure the Libyan public that the vaccination is safe and that they should register on the online system to receive their vaccinations.

Three doctors and a nurse have been suspended at the Bernice Samuel Hospital in Delmas, Mpumalanga. Their suspension comes after an infant had her hand amputated following admission for a case of diarrhoea.

Mbali Swelene (21) says Medical staff decided to insert a drip for the two-week-old infant because she was dehydrated. A few days later, her daughter’s hand started turning purple.

Upon questioning nursing staff, she was repeatedly assured that the hand would return to normal.

The baby’s arm was amputated a few days later at Witbank Hospital.

Mpumalanga mother seeks answers after her baby’s hand is amputated:

Delmas community members marched to the Bernice Samuel Hospital after pictures of the baby’s infected arm, before amputation, went viral.

The Mpumalanga provincial authorities have admitted to a possible case of negligence.

On Monday, Health MEC Sasekani Manzini said investigations are under way and corrective measures will be taken.

“Of course we can’t correct what has happened, but justice must be served.”

A preliminary report into the matter is expected this week. Both mother and child remain in hospital.

Three doctors and a nurse suspended over infant hand’s amputation:

The man identified as @Jaiyejejeomo on Twitter revealed that if a financially stable woman professes her love for a man then she is truly in love as it comes from her heart.

READ ALSO: “I’m Finished Today” – Davido Cries Out As He Reveals What His Daughter, Imade, And Her Gang Did To His House [PHOTOS]

His submission on Twitter sparked an avalanche of mixed reactions from other users as some disagreed with him citing their own idiosyncrasies.

See some reactions to his Twitter on Instagram below;

gabucci_xx020

Just because a woman is on an empty stomach (broke) doesn’t mean she can’t genuinely love a man or tell him she loves him genuinely from her heart…

andrewwmicheal

Makes much sense but at the other hand sometimes you feel insecure because whatelse you wanna think of? She not asking you for money but yiu just scared she got nothing to loose

READ ALSO: “I’m Finished Today” – Davido Cries Out As He Reveals What His Daughter, Imade, And Her Gang Did To His House [PHOTOS]

omotayo_tboy

Nothing can be compared with genuine love with or without money depend on individuals

ekua_paula_

Sense hardworking women only need love

queen_chinaza1

Abi date a woman like meI don’t need your money man

iampearltracy

Not so true. She might still fake the love to keep u if u have a big gbola I can tho

lady_bliz

Still some men won’t value such when they have them

sleempeddy

There’s no amount of money I can’t spend on that type of lady

Source:www.ghgossip.com

The entertainment industry is mourning the loss of yet another high profile individual.

The latest to enter the Pearly Gates is former Bouncer and Manager at United and Campers Lounge, Mickey Herbert Changana.

Mickey, as the 49-year-old was popularly known amongst revellers, succumbed to Covid-19 last week at Sir Ketumile Masire after being put in Intensive Care Unit for two weeks.

Known for organising shows and bringing reputable artists to the two clubs that were under his management, Mickey will be missed by many.

Governor Sanneh made this statement recently during the official inauguration of Gunjur and Kartong Immigration Border posts.

“We should help the police and the immigration to secure our borders, because without proper security, we cannot develop this country as we want it,” he said, adding that centralising these border posts is part of development.

He also challenged every Gambian, especially the alkalolu, council of elders and VDCs to complement the efforts of our security, “because this why the Local Government Act has made emphasis for VDCs as an entry point for development, so therefore, working with the immigration is very important.”

“Today we are happy that the command of Immigration Department has made consultations and came with strategy and action that can help this country for future development, especially on immigration matters.”

“Immigration is a very important sector when it comes to security in The Gambia, because these are the first point of call when migrants come to the country either by land, sea, or by air.”

Governor Sanneh therefore called on those immigration personnel working in those borders, to see the communities as Gambians, as partners and as brothers and sisters.

He commended members of the security, institutions and individuals for their support, while thanking organisations and philanthropists for complementing government efforts in supporting security in the country.

He also advised the two communities to work with the immigration to secure our borders.

Africa must expand its medical manufacturing capacity and forge partnerships to boost expertise and investment to combat the Covid-19 pandemic and future health emergencies, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said yesterday.

The continent has struggled to acquire vaccines to fight Covid-19 and imports the vast majority of its medicines and medical equipment, leaving it at the mercy of overseas supplies.

Africa’s mainly poor nations are falling behind in the global vaccination race with under 13 million doses administered so far to the continent’s 1.3 billion people, according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

Ramaphosa, the African Union’s Covid-19 champion and leader of the African country hardest hit by the virus, said there were lessons to learn from the pandemic.

“In ensuring an effective response to the current pandemic, we must strengthen our ability to both respond to future health emergencies and to achieve health security for the people of our continent,” he told continental leaders during a webinar.

Strategy

Ramaphosa said the medium-term strategy should be to expand existing manufacturing facilities into regional hubs that could serve Africa’s health needs.

“We also need to forge sustainable partnerships with entities in both the developed world as well as the developing world,” he said.

African countries could seek guidance from countries such as India and Brazil on how they developed their generic pharmaceutical industries, he said, and collaboration between the public and private sectors would be essential.

“The vision of a strong African medical supply and vaccine manufacturing capability that responds effectively to the health needs of the African people is bold and also ambitious, but it is achievable,” Ramaphosa said. – Nampa/Reuters

Former Tottenham Hotspur forward Peter Crouch believes Tottenham owner, Daniel Levy won’t allow Harry Kane to leave the club this summer.

Kane who has been tipped to leave the club if the team fail to qualify for Europe next season has become a hot property for big clubs, most especially Manchester City, Man United, PSG, and Real Madrid.

But Crouch says Levy will demand an ‘astronomical fee’ for Kane despite his loyal service to the club.

“Harry Kane might want to play in the Champions League next season, but Daniel Levy simply won’t bend,” the former Tottenham striker told the Daily Mail.

“I know how tough Daniel is when it comes to deals.

“People talk about Daniel’s reputation but let me put it like this: his one and only agenda is what is best for Tottenham. If I was ever in a position where I owned a football club, I would want Daniel running it because he puts the club’s interests above anything else.

“He doesn’t deal in sentiment and it won’t matter what Harry has done these last seven years. If he really wants to go, it won’t happen unless there is an astronomical fee involved — and that puts a cap on those who could afford him.”

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PF should reconvene and hold elective general conference…or else! – UPND

UPND SPOKESPERSON Cornelius Mweetwa has given the PF 48 hours to reconvene it’s general conference and hold elections failure to which the opposition party will drag it to the Constitutional Court.

Over the weekend, the PF held it’s general conference where President Edgar Lungu went unopposed and in turn appointed 53 officials as members of the Central Committee.
©Kalemba

April 13/2021(ENA)Sudan and Egypt must stop beating the drums of war over Nile dam project but set for dialogue as it is the only road to a permanent solution, the Kenyan newspaper “The Standard” wrote in its editorial.

The editorial dated April 13, 2021 noted that Ethiopia is in order to criticize the colonial pact that gave Egypt 55.5 billion cubic meters of water and Sudan 18.5 billion cubic meters.

All countries along Nile basin have a right to tap and flourish from its waters, it underscored.

“The Standard” stressed that Egypt and Sudan should not feel more entitled to the Nile than the rest of the countries. They must (therefore) desist from issuing threats of violence over the Nile waters.

There is need for a middle ground in this dispute, it pointed out, adding that while Ethiopia should be allowed to fill up its dam, it must do so responsibly.

The construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam started over a decade ago to provide electricity to Ethiopia and export the surplus to neighboring countries.

” Needless to say, the three countries have good intentions. They want to use the Nile waters for the good of their people. However, it is worth reminding them that the Nile does not belong to them alone. The waters of the longest river in the world belong to all of the 11 countries through which it passes.”

According to the newspaper, the failure of the Kinshasa negotiations is not the end of the road. Threatening war is not the right option. Dialogue, however elusive, is the only road to a permanent solution.

The following is the full text of the editorial.

Sudan, Egypt must stop beating the drums of war over Nile dam project

EDITORIAL

By Editorial | April 13th 2021

Ethiopia’s Grand Renaissance Dam is seen as it undergoes construction work on the river Nile in Guba Woreda, Benishangul Gumuz Region, Ethiopia, on September 26, 2019. [Reuters]

Egypt President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi is talking tough after failure of the latest round of talks over Ethiopia’s Nile dam. After the talks that ended last Sunday in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, al-Sisi warned that not even a drop of Egyptian water would be taken,

and that ‘all options are open’. He warned the region would fall into unimaginable instability if its water taken.

The construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam started over a decade ago, to provide electricity to Ethiopia and export the surplus to neighbouring countries. This, without doubt, is a noble initiative.

However, the Egyptian government fears that the mega-dam may reduce water flow into the country. Egypt relies on the Nile for more than 90 per cent of her water needs.

Khartoum is on Cairo’s side, and has warned that any unilateral decision by Ethiopia to fill the dam will affect Sudan’s “national security” and have “regional repercussions”. Ethiopia plans to collect 13.5 billion cubic metres of water in July, but the two countries are against the move.

Needless to say, the three countries have good intentions. They want to use the Nile waters for the good of their people. However, it is worth reminding them that the Nile does not belong to them alone. The waters of the longest river in the world belongs to all the 11 countries through which it passes.

For that reason, Ethiopia is in order to criticise the colonial pact that gave Egypt 55.5 billion cubic metres of water and Sudan 18.5 billion cubic metres. All countries along Nile basin have a right to tap and flourish from its waters.

That said, it is imperative that commonsense prevails. This shared resource must be used responsibly by each of the countries. None should threaten the lives of those downstream due to its own interests. The Ethiopian dam is important, but it must not snuff out life downstream.

In the same vein, Egypt and Sudan should not feel more entitled to the Nile than the rest of the countries. They must desist from issuing threats of violence over the Nile waters. There is need for a middle ground in this dispute. While Ethiopia should be allowed to fill up its dam, it must do so responsibly. Not even a single person downstream should suffer as a result.

The failure of the Kinshasa negotiations is not the end of the road. Egypt and Sudan’s suggestion for a binding pact over the filling of the dam backed by the United States, the United Nations and the European Union, is a good idea. But threatening war is not. Dialogue,

however elusive, is the only road to a permanent solution.

Busia Governor Sospeter Ojaamong on Monday, assented to the Busia County Climate Change Bill, 2021, 11 days after the County Assembly of Busia gave it a nod thereby opening a path for Sh 5 billion funding from the World Bank.

The Bill will now be taken to the Government Printers for gazettement, for it to become an Act. This is on a brighter side of the county’s economic development.

The Bill which aims at promoting, supporting and facilitating community-based initiated adaptive and mitigation activities, is now awaiting gazettement.

The latest development will see the unlocking of over Sh5 billion climate change funding from the World Bank.

The Directorate of Climate Change is also working on the County Climate Change Funds regulations that will operationalize the Act.

Busia is among 15 counties which have pioneered the issue of Climate Change in the Country. The Act once implemented will have huge impact on climate change mitigation in the County.

“We want to join our neighbours who have already enacted on the Bill,” said Ojaamong after assenting the Bill in his office.

The Act will enhance resilience through development, management, implementation, regulations, mainstreaming climate change responses into development planning, decision making and implementation, facilitate effective management of climate change and to promote, support and facilitate community-based and community-initiated adaptation and mitigation activities.

By Absalom Namwalo

Absalom NamwaloBusia Governor Sospeter OjaamongClimate Change Bill

The wife of the late Collins Khosa who died after an altercation with soldiers in Alexandra, north of Johannesburg, during the hard lockdown last April, says the family still does not have closure.

Glacia Khosa says the family is heartbroken that no one has been arrested for his death. Khosa died from a blunt force trauma to the head after being assaulted, allegedly by soldiers who were searching for liquor at his home.

The Military Ombud found that the soldiers contravened operational orders by entering Khosa’s home without the police.

Glacia Khosa says: “As his wife, there is nothing we can do to bring him back, he is gone, there are difficulties and challenges especially with raising the children, there is nothing we can do to bring him back, we just have to accept.”

Heartbroken, sad and in search of answers, Glacia questions why there are delays in arresting the perpetrators of her husband’s murder.

“It is very painful that it has been a year, (and) no one has been arrested. It is so difficult. We don’t know what is happening. At least, if we had answers on what happened and how far the case is, perhaps our souls would be at ease. We will find peace, but there are no answers,” she says.

SANDF’s reaction to Military Ombudsman’s report on Collins Khosa:

Khosa was a father of two sons aged 12 and 13-years-old. The two boys appeared emotional and shed soft tears during the SABC News interview with their mother.

Glacia Khosa says her husband’s death has been hard on their two sons who stay with her at Mavele village outside Tzaneen in Limpopo.

“Our lives have changed completely since he left us. There is no joy anymore. There is no communication with children, we don’t know how to advise the children, they miss their father.”

The military Ombud found, in August last year, that the soldiers’ conduct contravened operational orders as they were required to enter the Khosa property along with police officials.

His death sparked demands that the military act with sensitivity while enforcing lockdown regulations. The Khosa family still battles to cope with his loss, saying they would like to see justice being served.

Below is SABC News’ exclusive interview with Glacia Khosa in 2020:

The singer whose Rum and Boggie album toppled Wizkid’s ‘Made In Lagos’ to peak at number one on Apple Music and subsequently made the new face of Apple Music’s Africa Now recently, revealed that he lost his mother to cancer when he was very young and it was very devastating as he’s the only son of his late mother. He’s quoted as saying;

‘My mum was my best friend, I’m the only son, last born, I lost my mum to cancer. It was a busy period for me when it happened, I just dropped ‘For your pocket’ (and) 2 days after my mum dies.

It was like me taking the time to cry in my house, tying to hide from my guys because we were already tweeting ‘For your pocket is out now’. I didn’t want them to stop tweeting so after some time I tried very well to tell them ‘allow, me when it’s time to cry I’ll cry very well but please let’s not stop sharing the song let’s continue’.

I had my time, I used to cry when I was taking my bath. I used to tell myself till tomorrow morning I am going to cry. Whenever I had the time to take a shower I’ll know that’s my time to cry, and as I’m crying the water is washing everything away.

Then I’ll come outside again like it was nothing and back to work. So it was in between that period, that was when Davido posted my song on his Snapchat. I didn’t know him before.’

SOURCE: www.Ghgossip.com

OGONE TLHAGE

WINDHOEK

The newly appointed commissioner of the Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRa), Sam Shivute, says government has been able to successfully conduct tax audits which have resulted in millions being paid to the State.

He made the comments while appearing on Namibian Sun’s Evening Review programme following the launch of his agency last week. The agency’s operationalisation now clears government of the responsibility of collecting taxes, mimicking similar agencies such as the Botswana Unified Revenue Service and the South African Revenue Services.

Confidentiality

“In a taxation space, we are guided by the issue of confidentially. Lifestyle tax audits have been happening and it is happening, and it’s not only going to start with NamRa. The only thing is that, even Inland Revenue directorate has been doing is that – it’s only you and them that will know,” Shivute said.

“It did not start even yesterday or a day before yesterday. In Namibia, with the introduction of the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC), every time they pick up these are the movements in your account, then the FIC will report to the tax office. I am aware lifestyle audits have been happening,” Shivute added.

It was not in the nature of tax authorities to report the scope or nature of tax audits, he said.

New normal

According to Shivute, NamRa marked the start of a new normal as far as tax collection is concerned.

“Sometimes you may not hear this news, with NamRa it’s not going to be business as usual,” Shivute said.

The directorate of Inland Revenue was aware of people who may appear to live beyond their means while not paying their fair share of taxes, a matter he said NamRa would not relent on.

“There are people we know [of], and we have access to the information. If the tax man starts with you, they don’t publicise, it does not happen in taxation. The principle of confidentially is there unless specific individual is disputing and this ends of up in court,” he said.

“It doesn’t make sense; you’re driving this expensive car. The good thing with our system is how much do you declare, how much do you pay, does it correspond with how much you pay?” Shivute said.

April 13/2021(ENA) A national COVID-19 Tracking Survey will be conducted in a bid to enhance response mechanisms that effectively prevent the spread of the pandemic in the country, Ministry of Health announced today.

The month-long survey is expected to help understand the existing prevalence rate of the virus, active and recovered cases, as well as fatalities and most affected age groups and gender.

Despite continuous efforts to contain the spread of the pandemic, COVID-19 infections, severe cases and death have been drastically increasing in Ethiopia mainly due to public negligence, it was learned.

Mini-researches carried out have helped assess the situation to a limited extent and adopt guidelines of prevention which has also prompted this national COVID-19 Tracking Survey.

Launching a two-day training for experts drawn to conduct the survey this morning, Ethiopian Public Health Institute Senior Researcher, Saro Abdela, said the national research will help track the current situation of COVID-19 in the country and implement appropriate response to the pandemic.

The partners are expected to provide the necessary financial and technical support that involves 13,600 people across the country. More than 160 experts will participate in the research to be carried out at a cost of 25 million Birr.

Findings of the survey are critical to determine the appropriate preventive measures that help to tackle the pandemic, the coordinator observed.

“This research may help revise COVID-19 guidelines and enhance the appropriate response measures against the pandemic,” Saro noted.

Ministry of Health COVID-19 Research Task Force Coordinator, Abebaw Gebeyehu said the research is important in identifying vulnerable groups and providing the necessary support to those groups.

Ministry of Health and Ethiopian Public Health Institute, in partnership with Africa CDC, U.S CDC, Ohio State University, and WHO, are going to conduct the survey.

By Tordue Salem, Abuja

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Ibrahim Attahiru, has told the House of Representatives Ad Hoc Committee investigating the Purchase, Use and Control of Arms, Ammunition and Related Hardware by Military, Paramilitary and Other Law Enforcement Agencies in Nigeria to invite his predecessors to shed more light on the arms procurement.

Attahiru stated this on Monday, in Abuja when he appeared before the Ad hoc committee investigating arms purchase in the last ten years.

Though he did not mention any name, his predecessors during the year under review included, Lt-Gen Azubuike Ihejirika (rtd) who was the COAS between September 2010 – January 2014, Lt-Gen Kenneth Minimah (rtd) who was the COAS between January 2014 – July 2015 and Lt-Gen Tukur Buratai (rtd).

Attahiru said he was earlier invited to before the Committee but was unable to make due to exigencies of duties, adding that he was either in the North-east or South-east or South-south trying to ensure stability within Nigeria.

But Ejiofor Oghene, who was not pleased with the explanation given by the army chief, asked him to apologise for not honouring the invitation extended to him earlier.

He pointed out that everybody in any position of authority works for the Nigerian people while adding that elected officials are those who speak for the 200 million or more Nigerians.

Oghene stated: “The explanation all along is understandable considering the security situation in the country and knowing that your position demands a lot of your time going around. So, one would have expected that today that you are able to honour this invitation, there would have been something that sounds like an apology for not being able to make it all along. What we have gotten is an explanation.”

The lawmaker insisted that the House symbolises the Nigerian people and therefore demanded that Attahiru apologised for not honouring the earlier invitation.

But the combat-ready army chief stood his ground, saying his explanation was as good as an apology.

Attahiru said: “Mr Chairman, just like the last speaker, said that we are partners in progress and I believe that too. But you said I offered an explanation, it is as good as an apology. It only tells you the reasons I was here and the reasons are cogent enough, even the blind man knows there are problems of internal security in Nigeria. So, I think it suffices to explain to this honourable House my inability to be here.

“The way you work for the Nigerian people is the same way I work for the Nigerian people. I commend the Nigerian Army that is also peopled by Nigerians – representatives of everywhere you come from.”

However, Bede Uchenna, who re-echoed the position of another member of the committee, said after the submission of documents to the Committee, it behoves on the COAS to speak to the document before the committee members start asking questions on areas they need clarification

But the army chief explained that the executive summary of all the documents demanded by the committee is self-explanatory, while the issue of procurement which is of interest to the committee has also been dealt with.

Attahiru added: “The summation before you speaks to the report before you, it is an executive summary, it is self-explanatory…because when you demanded this report you stated specifically the areas from which you wanted this report.

“You may wish to recall that the COAS took over the mantle of leadership barely two months ago. The period from which you wanted this report, having been summarised in the Executive summary explains whatever details you will require. Issues of procurement that you so demand to know were done by specific individuals.

“I will rather you call these individuals to come and explain to you very specific issues. The general issue has been contained in the report and the summary and the other executive summary is so contained, it goes to speak about the entire report and it explains it.”

Vanguard News Nigeria

Related

By Sami Zaptia.

London, 13 April 2021:

A Libyan ministerial delegation arrived in Ankara Sunday to attend the first meeting of the Libyan-Turkish Council for High-Level Strategic Cooperation chaired by Libyan prime minister Abd Alhamid Aldabiba and Turkish President Republic Recep Erdogan. The Libyan-Turkish Council for High-Level Strategic Cooperation had been established by an agreement between the two countries in 2014.

The Libyan ministers held several bilateral meetings on the side-lines of the meeting with their Turkish counterparts, to discuss various cooperation files. Six agreements were signed:

1- Protocol to establish a power station in Libya.

2- A Memorandum of Understanding to establish three power stations in Libya.

3- Memorandum of Understanding to establish a new passenger terminal at Tripoli International Airport.

4- Memorandum of Understanding to build a new shopping centre in Tripoli.

5- Memorandum of Understanding between Turkey and Libya on strategic cooperation in the field of media.

6- The joint declaration of the first meeting of the High-level Strategic Cooperation Council between Turkey and Libya.

Yesterday, under the auspices of the Prime Minister Aldabaiba, and President Erdogan, the Council met ‘‘with the aim of improving the relationship based on friendship and solid brotherhood on the basis of mutual benefit, respect and equality, deepening and diversifying cooperation between the two countries’’, the Libyan government reported.

Sovereignty, LPDF and unified government

During the meeting, the importance of protecting Libya’s sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, and political unity throughout the country in the east, west and south was emphasized, and that the Presidency Council and the Government of National Unity are the only legitimate executive authority for Libya, which was identified through the elections held at the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum meeting.

Political process

It was also stressed that the problems in Libya can be solved through political methods led by Libya and owned within the framework of the 2015 Libyan Political Agreement and the relevant Security Council resolutions, the conclusions of the Berlin Conference and the Libyan Dialogue Forum road map, in addition to the importance of Turkey’s contribution to ensuring a permanent and sustainable cessation of launching fire.

MoU’s, Navy, Eastern Mediterranean

During the meeting, it was highlighted that the Memorandum of Understanding signed between Turkey and Libya, especially the navy, carries importance for the common interests of both countries, regional stability and cooperation, and the validity of the principles contained therein, and an expression of the will to move forward in framing them, with an emphasis on the need to hold a regional conference for all parties. Supporting dialogue and cooperation in the eastern Mediterranean ends to guarantee the rights of all.

Eastern Mediterranean conference

It was also agreed that a regional conference should be held to ensure dialogue and cooperation in the eastern Mediterranean.

Security reform and capacity building

It should be noted that both sides wish to enhance cooperation for security reform and capacity building as needed and at the request of the Libyan government.

Terrorism, extremism, crime

Emphasis was placed on condemning terrorism regardless of its motives and in all its forms and manifestations, stressing the importance of working in full solidarity in combating terrorist groups and criminal organizations that pose a threat to both countries.

The two sides affirmed to continue strengthening their bilateral, regional and international cooperation against violent extremism, all forms and manifestations of separatism, transnational organized crimes, drug smuggling, human trafficking, money laundering, crimes against cultural and historical heritage, cybercrime, disinformation campaigns, migrant smuggling and cross-border security threats.

Illegal migration

The two sides agreed to cooperate in combating illegal immigration, human trafficking and migrant trafficking. The two sides will also share experiences in the field of illegal immigration.

Increase bilateral trade to US$ 5 billion

It was also agreed to increase the volume of bilateral trade to 5 billion US dollars in a balanced manner.

Free Trade Agreement, Turkish contractors

It is noteworthy that the next meeting of the Joint Economic Committee will be held as soon as possible, with the resumption of negotiations on the Free Trade Agreement, in addition to the possible role of Turkish contractors and the private sector in the reconstruction process in Libya and the emphasis on commitment to addressing the outstanding issues of Turkish companies, in accordance with the correct contracts of these companies and within the framework of legislation in force in the two countries in a manner that guarantees the interests of the contracting parties.

Energy

The two sides stressed the importance of improving and deepening cooperation in the field of energy for the mutual benefit of both countries, and express their willingness to start work in this regard.

Resumption of Turkish airlines flights

A mechanism for reaching an understanding was discussed regarding conducting the field examination required for Turkish Airlines to resume its flights to Libya.

Training program for Libyan diplomats

During the meeting, the two sides agreed to organize a training program for Libyan diplomats in the first phase, according to the Memorandum of Understanding between the Diplomatic Academy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Republic of Turkey and the Institute of Diplomatic Studies at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in the State of Libya, which was signed on March 14, 2012.

It was also agreed to hold political talks between the foreign ministries periodically at a level to be determined by the concerned ministers through diplomatic channels.

Health cooperation

It was agreed to commit to strengthening coordination between their health institutions in combating epidemics, primarily against the Coronavirus pandemic.

National security cooperation

It was also agreed to work in unity on global, regional and national security issues, in compliance with their national interests and security concerns.

The two sides expressed their confidence that the regular work of the committee will enhance the strategic and brotherly relations between the two countries and contribute to strengthening the historical ties between their peoples.

Bilateral cooperation in defence, health, tourism, education, culture, media, mutual investment, municipalities and financing

The two sides also expressed their determination to continue their efforts to enhance bilateral cooperation in defence, health, tourism, education, culture, media, mutual investment, municipalities and financing.

The two sides agreed to closely follow the results of the Committee’s first meeting, and hold the next meeting in Libya.

Only 10 per cent of Huduma Namba cards have been collected by residents of the Bomet Central sub-county despite receiving messages alerts informing them to pick the cards, said the County Registrar.

The National Integrated Identity Systems (NIIMS) simply known as Huduma Namba was a project preceded by the government in 2019 and was billed as a single source of the personal identity for Kenyans and individuals residing in Kenya.

Speaking at his office, the county Registrar Officer Mr Jones Kenanda said they have received a consignment of Huduma Cards in two batches from Nairobi and even though they have informed members of the public, they have failed to collect them.

“The government has so far distributed two batches of Huduma Numbers to Bomet Central Sub-County, the first one arrived here a month ago while the second lot arrived last month,” said Kenanda.

He added, “The moment we receive these cards we scan the barcode, instructions asking residents to collect their card is relayed immediately to the corresponding mobile numbers used during the registration process.”

However, the county registrar noted that some of the challenges they are facing have been attributed to Covid-19 restrictions that halted the free movement of people.

Kenanda noted that his office is coming up with mobile centres within his sub-county to bring their services close to the public to hasten the collection process.

Ms Betrice Koech, a senior Clerk Officer issuing the cards in Bomet Central National registration Bureau noted that some individuals might have issued different mobile numbers during registration making it impossible for them to receive instructions notifying them to collect the cards.

Koech also added, “Another challenge we have here is that some people might have registered within this Sub-County and since have moved to other location making it hard for them to come for their cards.”

The government had stated early that, the issuance of Huduma Numbers will eventually phase out the use of National Identification Cards currently used by Kenyans.

By Lamech Arisa and Joseph Obwocha

Bomet Central sub-countyHuduma Namba cardsJoseph ObwochaLamech ArisaMs Betrice KoechNational Integrated Identity Systems (NIIMS)

An outbreak of Avian influenza has been detected on a chicken farm in Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg, where around 300 birds died.

Spokesperson for the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, Reggie Ngcobo, says samples were sent to Onderstepoort’s Veterinary Research facility and tested positive for the H5 strain of Avian flu.

He says the commercial chicken-layer farm was also part of the H5N8 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreak in 2017.

The outbreak caused poultry farmers to cull millions of birds and prompted neighbouring countries including Zimbabwe, Namibia and Botswana to ban poultry imports from South Africa.

Ngcobo says the farm has been placed under quarantine. He says veterinary authorities are investigating the extent of the outbreak and the nature of the pathogen.

“We urge our people to (remain) calm. There is no need for panic. And we urge our farmers as well as those who keep birds for hobbies or in zoo’s … we encourage them to implement bio-security measures. Keep birds away from areas that are visited by wild birds, control access of people that come in, in their bird houses, avoid provision of water and food in a way that attracts wild birds. There’s no need to panic. The Department is currently working on making sure that we get the result and then we will be able to advise accordingly,” adds Ngcobo.

Photos of former Big Brother Naija housemate and brand influencer, Ozoemena Joseph Chukwu simply called Ozo and Ghanaian actress, Nadia Buari has stirred mixed reactions from social media users.

It appears Nadia Buari showed up for Ozo on a project he had done and after meeting her, he took to his Instagram s tory to share photos of him and the mother of three where he expressed appreciation to her for support.

Captioning the post, Ozo wrote:

“Thanks for all the support @iamNadiabuari.”

READ ALSO: “I’m Finished Today” – Davido Cries Out As He Reveals What His Daughter, Imade, And Her Gang Did To His House [PHOTOS]

Fans alluded to the fact that Nadia Buari is Ozo’s spec and while some compared her beauty to the former Big Brother Naija housemate, and advised him to forget Nengi.

See reactions below:

@star_lead wrote; ‘Ozo should forget about Nengi abeg’

@NormanAllstarL1 wrote; ‘They really look alike…. Ozo sister has found since looking for him since 1900’

@_sucystar wrote; ‘She is his spec’

@chinweenwezor wrote; ‘We all know Ozo likes them fair. He even said so. Well they look good.’

@akomolafe24 wrote; ‘She fine pass Nengi’

READ ALSO: “I’m Finished Today” – Davido Cries Out As He Reveals What His Daughter, Imade, And Her Gang Did To His House [PHOTOS]

Source:www.ghgossip.com

Namibia zu Covid-19-Zeiten – ein Reisebericht, der von Herzen kommt

Es gibt kaum eine schönere Zeit in Namibia als die grüne Jahreszeit, inmitten der Wunder, die sich nach langen Jahren der Dürre plötzlich nach guten Regenfällen zeigen, wenn die Erde erleichtert aufatmet, durstig das Wasser aufsaugt und ihr neues Erwachen feiert.

Auf der Straße Richtung Norden nach Etosha lege ich eine CD ein, die ich wahllos aus einem Stapel von CDs auf dem Beifahrersitz gezogen habe. Als Paul Simons Lied “These are the days of miracle and wonder” durch meinen robusten Camping2Go-Nissan-Bakkie schallt, weiß ich, dass er recht hat. Das Land schwelgt geradezu im Überfluss, in den sonst trockenen Flussbetten fließen Wassermassen. Für viele waren die letzten trockenen Jahre hart und eine große Herausforderung. Zu sehen, wie sich die Natur so vollständig regeneriert und erneuert, gibt unendlich viel Hoffnung für die Zukunft. Die Natur erinnert mich daran, dass das Leben weitergeht – wunderschön, unbekümmert. Und ich bin dankbar für diese Erinnerung.

Es ist ein kühler Tag mit leichten, zeitweiligen Regenschauern und einer schüchternen Sonne, die durch die Wolken lugt. Omajowa-Verkäufer (mit ihren Masken) verkaufen die riesigen Pilze, die während der Regenzeit an Termitenhügeln aus der Erde wachsen. Ich mache mir eine Notiz, später auf der Reise welche zu kaufen, um sie mit Butter und Knoblauch anzurichten. Da läuft mir das Wasser im Mund zusammen.

Viele sagen, man sollte Namibia in den trockenen Wintermonaten besuchen, aber diese wunderbare Fülle des Lebens vermittelt die Botschaft, dass jede Jahreszeit ihre Gaben hat. Normalerweise wird auch empfohlen, Etosha in der Jahresmitte zu besuchen, wenn sich die Wildtiere um die Wasserlöcher konzentrieren. Ich habe dagegen festgestellt, dass ich jedes Mal, wenn ich den Nationalpark in der grünen Jahreszeit besucht habe, unglaubliche Wildsichtungen hatte. Ich bin gespannt, was dieser Besuch bringen wird.

Während ich durch Pfützen spritze und dem Bakkie ein gründliches Schlammbad verpasse, lege ich es nicht darauf an Tierarten abzuhaken. Vielmehr fahre ich langsam und genieße den Anblick der Tiere, die sich im grünen Gras räkeln, und die kleinen Teiche, die in der Landschaft entstanden sind. Es ist herrlich, glückliche Tiere zu sehen, vor allem vor der Hintergrund voriger Besuche während der Dürre, als die Wildtiere verzweifelt versuchten, irgendwo Wasser zu erreichen. Ich beobachte Springböcke, Giraffen, Gnus und Zebras, die aussehen, als hätten sie in der Wildtierlotterie gewonnen, und ich lache vergnügt über die Korhaans, die mit auffallenden Gebärden und ihrem lauten Frosch-Krokodil-Ruf potenzielle Partner anlocken.

Ich bin auf dem Weg zurück nach Okaukuejo und zum Andersson-Tor, als ich an ein vor mir geparktes Fahrzeug heranfahre, um zu sehen, was seine Insassen entdeckt haben. Der Fahrer zeigt zur Seite. Es ist ein Gepard mit einem frisch gefangenen Springbock, der von zwei Schakalen bedrängt wird, die auch ein paar Bissen abbekommen wollen. Es ist einer dieser Anblicke in der grünen Jahreszeit, die man auch in der Trockenzeit nicht oft zu sehen bekommt. Ich beobachte das Geschehen lange Zeit, bis der Gepard aufsteht, satt nach einer guten Mahlzeit, sich umschaut, gähnt und im langen Gras verschwindet.

Der Gepard hat seinen Abgang perfekt getimed und ich schaffe es gerade noch vor Sonnenuntergang aus dem Park, um zum Etosha Safari Camp zurückzukehren. Wenn Sie etwas Lebensfreude in Ihrem Leben brauchen, ist dies der richtige Ort. Die hellen und fröhlichen Zimmer zwischen den Mopane-Bäumen und das farbenfrohe und verrückte Restaurant, das den alten Shebeens nachempfunden ist, laden dazu ein, in den wunderbaren Farben des Lebens zu schwelgen. Es ist ein entspannter und bodenständiger Ort und das köstliche Buffet wartet auf mich. Ich geselle mich zu den anderen in den Innenhof, genieße das Essen und lausche den beiden Musikern, die am Campfeuer lokale Melodien spielen, während die warme Beleuchtung des Innenhofes ihren fröhlichen Schein verbreitet.

Es tut gut, nach einem anstrengenden Tag hier zu sein. Ich spüre die Harmonie dieses Platzes, als ich mich auf den Weg in mein Zimmer mache und auf eine gute Nachtruhe freue. Morgen fahre ich weiter in Richtung Westen zur Damara Mopane Lodge, um dort eine weitere Portion Natur in Zeiten des Überflusses zu erleben.

Ron Swilling

The Senegalese-American artist and businessman AKON has concluded a one week-long trip in Uganda.

Akon, whose real name is Aliaume Damala Badara Akon Thiam, was in the country at the invitation of Ambassador Abbey Walusimbi, the Senior Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs to explore various investment opportunities in the country.

During the trip, UTB held talks with him on how to leverage his networks and celebrity status to tap into the wealthy celebrity North American travellers and African diaspora market.

During his stay, UTB CEO Lilly Ajarova hosted Akon and his wife Rozina Negusei for a familiarization trip to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the most visited national park, together with Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is famous for the Mountain Gorilla and hosts 53% of the world’s population of gorillas. Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to over 95 mammal species and over 600 bird species.

Describing the gorilla tracking in a media interview, Akon and Rozina said it was rare, tough and beautiful at the same time. “We had an amazing time a beautiful experience. “It was amazing, I got an up-close and personal shot with the gorillas… you don’t see shots this close.” she said.

While addressing journalists in Kampala, Akon said: “I cannot believe what I have experienced while in Uganda, the kind of welcome I never knew Uganda had and I’m determined to expose how beautiful this country is to the rest of the world.”

The CEO of UTB Lilly Ajarova said; that Akon’s visit follows another February 2021 meeting between her and Akon’s wife and entertainment entrepreneur, Rozina Negusei.

“One of the key opportunities discussed with Rozina then, and again with the couple was an opportunity for a huge potential for a back-to-Africa (in this case Uganda) International Music Festival,” she said.

She said; “We also discussed marine tourism- given Uganda’s abundance of water bodies, the redevelopment of the Equator—UTB has profiled up to six areas of investment as well as the construction of especially luxury accommodation facilities in and around our 10 National Parks in addition to a favourable business environment such as government incentives, widely available and affordable labour, all, combine to make Uganda, one of the best places to visit and invest.”

Lilly said that UTB hopes to leverage the multi-platinum selling singer, rapper, songwriter, record producer, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and actor’s celebrity and wealthy networks, first to create awareness about Uganda in the North American markets especially and subsequently influence investments inflows as well.

North American Market, that includes the United States of America and Canada, according to the just-released Uganda’s Tourist Expenditure And Motivation Survey (Tems) 2019 Report, by the tourism minister, although North America tourists constitute only 9.3% of overall tourism numbers to Uganda, they, together with European and Oceania (Australia, New Zealand) were largely leisure travellers that spend between 8 to 14 nights. Nearly one-third of all leisure visitors were much more likely to stay in either Uganda’s Safari Lodge or Tourist campsites.

In an interview with Associated Press News, an American newswire, Akon said that Uganda was rich with potential and indeed confirmed that his company was interested in and would host an international music festival in Uganda.

“Uganda is definitely a hub for investment. We’re looking to put together a huge festival here,” he said, adding: “We do want to be able to invest in the local artists. One of the reasons for the festival is to expose the local artists here in Uganda because they play a big role in East African music alongside Kenya and Rwanda and Congo as well too.”

Akon also hinted at plans to build what he called an entertainment city in Uganda.

“That is on the list of things that we are doing. That is one of the reasons why we are doing the Akon Entertainment City here; because we want to be able to focus and showcase the entertainment all throughout East Africa,” he said.