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US launches airstrikes against Iran following attacks on commercial vessels in Strait of HormuzEditor's Pick
🇬🇭Ghana·GhanaWeb·6 days ago

US launches airstrikes against Iran following attacks on commercial vessels in Strait of Hormuz

The US military has initiated airstrikes against Iran, with explosions reported in Sirik, Qeshm Island, and Bandar Abbas. US Central Command CENTCOM stated these strikes are a response to Iranian attacks on three commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Al Jazeera’s Tohid Asadi reported multiple explosions on Qeshm Island and near Sirik Port, both strategically significant for Iran's control over the Strait. Iran's foreign ministry holds the US responsible for breaching a June memorandum of understanding MoU that aimed to end a conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran, and included lifting a US naval blockade in exchange for Tehran reopening the Strait. The MoU also involved a temporary waiver of sanctions on Iranian oil, which the US Treasury Department has now revoked. This revocation followed attacks on tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, including a Qatari tanker and a Saudi-flagged crude oil tanker. Iran's deputy foreign minister, Kazem Gharibabadi, stated that the US actions violate the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding and that Iran will take necessary measures to protect its interests.

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Ghana government mourns passing of Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama IIMust Read
🇬🇭GhanaWeb·1 hour ago

Ghana government mourns passing of Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II

The Government of Ghana has extended its condolences to the people of Dagbon following the death of the Overlord of Dagbon, Yaa Naa Abukari Mahama II. In a statement issued by the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, on Monday, July 13, 2026, President John Dramani Mahama expressed sympathies to the Royal Family, the people of Dagbon, and Ghanaians. The late Yaa Naa was described as a traditional ruler whose leadership promoted peace and unity, playing a key role in bringing healing and reconciliation to the kingdom after years of conflict. The government highlighted his commitment to unity, stability, and the welfare of his people, which fostered development in Dagbon and strengthened the partnership between traditional authorities and the government. The statement paid tribute to his invaluable service to the nation, stating that his legacy of wisdom, leadership, and dedication to peace would continue to inspire future generations. News of the Yaa Naa's passing was announced on July 13, 2026.

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Dangote Refinery transitions to dollar-denominated petrol sales, ending naira paymentsMust Read
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·6 hours ago

Dangote Refinery transitions to dollar-denominated petrol sales, ending naira payments

Dangote Petroleum Refinery has set new ex-depot prices for Premium Motor Spirit petrol at $0.779 per litre, marking a shift to dollar-denominated transactions for refined products. This change, effective Monday, July 13, 2026, also updates prices for Automotive Gas Oil diesel to $1.087 per litre and Aviation Turbine Kerosene to $0.942 per litre. Coastal deliveries of petrol are now fixed at $1,044.62 per metric tonne. The refinery informed petroleum marketers and customers that all previous naira-denominated Proforma Invoices and Deal Recaps are invalid. This move aims to align product sales with the currency used for crude oil procurement, as the refinery increasingly receives dollar-denominated crude supplies from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited. The transition is expected to impact petroleum marketers and influence fuel pricing in Nigeria's deregulated downstream sector, with the eventual retail pump price depending on the naira-to-dollar exchange rate, logistics, and other costs. The new pricing structure does not apply to Liquefied Petroleum Gas transactions.

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US launches airstrikes against Iran following attacks on commercial vessels in Strait of Hormuz
🇬🇭Ghana·GhanaWeb·6 days ago

US launches airstrikes against Iran following attacks on commercial vessels in Strait of Hormuz

The US military has initiated airstrikes against Iran, with explosions reported in Sirik, Qeshm Island, and Bandar Abbas. US Central Command CENTCOM stated these strikes are a response to Iranian attacks on three commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Al Jazeera’s Tohid Asadi reported multiple explosions on Qeshm Island and near Sirik Port, both strategically significant for Iran's control over the Strait. Iran's foreign ministry holds the US responsible for breaching a June memorandum of understanding MoU that aimed to end a conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran, and included lifting a US naval blockade in exchange for Tehran reopening the Strait. The MoU also involved a temporary waiver of sanctions on Iranian oil, which the US Treasury Department has now revoked. This revocation followed attacks on tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, including a Qatari tanker and a Saudi-flagged crude oil tanker. Iran's deputy foreign minister, Kazem Gharibabadi, stated that the US actions violate the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding and that Iran will take necessary measures to protect its interests.

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Experts call for audit of collapsed Gombe Assembly building, state government launches investigation
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·2 hours ago

Experts call for audit of collapsed Gombe Assembly building, state government launches investigation

Built environment professionals are urging a thorough technical audit of the new Gombe State House of Assembly Complex construction site after a section of its cantilevered entrance canopy collapsed, resulting in one fatality and seven injuries. Experts from engineering and architecture, including Engr. Suleiman Abba of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and Engr. Musa Achindo of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria, emphasized the need for an independent assessment to determine the cause and strengthen safety standards. Arc. Mustapha Adamu of the Nigerian Institute of Architects advocated for a multidisciplinary investigation. The Gombe State Government has initiated an immediate investigation, confirming eight workers were involved, with one death and seven injuries. Governor Muhammadu Yahaya expressed condolences and directed that all injured workers receive medical care at the government's expense. The Ministry of Works, Housing and Transportation, along with other agencies, has been instructed to commence safety and accountability procedures. The contractor and supervising consultant are required to submit an incident report within 24 hours, followed by preliminary and comprehensive technical reports. The government assured the public that the investigation's findings would guide future actions and reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing safety and quality standards in public infrastructure projects.

Financial Crimes Commission uncovers serious flaws in Mauritius' dangerous drug import control systemMust Read
🇲🇺Le Mauricien·2 hours ago

Financial Crimes Commission uncovers serious flaws in Mauritius' dangerous drug import control system

The Financial Crimes Commission FCC has identified significant vulnerabilities in Mauritius' system for controlling the import of dangerous drugs, warning that these weaknesses could be exploited by criminal networks. The FCC's report, a Financial Crimes Prevention Review, was initiated following allegations of questionable practices surrounding the import and monitoring of strictly controlled medications. The investigation specifically focused on pregabalin, marketed as Pregatas, Nervigen P, and Nervigen NP, which are classified as dangerous drugs due to their potential for abuse. The FCC concluded that the control system is undermined by poor governance, insufficient oversight, and an over-reliance on manual procedures within the Ministry of Health's pharmacology department. Additional issues include inadequate management of import quotas, ineffective monitoring mechanisms, poor traceability, and documentation management that fails to meet transparency and security standards. These dysfunctions, according to the Commission, create opportunities for quota manipulation, irregular authorizations, collusion among stakeholders, document falsification, corruption, bribery, and the diversion of dangerous drugs into illicit channels. The report also highlights that these failures could facilitate the financing of drug trafficking activities. The absence of secure IT systems further compromises authorities' ability to effectively track sensitive products, limiting control, audit, an

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🇹🇳Business News·16 hours ago

Donald Trump states US will take control of Strait of Hormuz and demand payment for its protection

On Monday, July 13, 2026, Donald Trump announced that the United States would "take control" of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route, and would require payment for its protection. Speaking to Fox News, Trump stated, "We will become the guardians of the strait," and added that the US expects significant reimbursement for the risks faced by its troops, claiming the US has provided this service "for free" until now. This declaration comes amid high tensions between Washington and Tehran, despite a recent ceasefire. Trump's statement that the US is "taking control" contradicts Iran's assertion that the strait remains closed "until further notice." Days prior, Trump had threatened to "decimate and completely destroy" Iran following intelligence from Israel about an alleged Iranian plot against him. Tehran, however, maintains it has respected the ceasefire and accuses Washington of violating its commitments by reinstating economic sanctions. The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Indian Ocean, facilitating approximately one-fifth of global oil consumption and a significant portion of liquefied natural gas exports. Disruptions in this area typically lead to increased energy prices and international market concerns. Iran has frequently threatened to close the strait in response to Western military and economic pressure, while Washington justifies its naval presence by the need to ensure freedom of navigati

2 min read
Jordanian air defense intercepts four Iranian missiles over its airspaceMust Read
🇪🇬Egypt Today·19 hours ago

Jordanian air defense intercepts four Iranian missiles over its airspace

Jordanian air defense systems intercepted and downed four missiles that entered Jordanian airspace from Iranian territory early Monday morning. A military source at the General Command of the Jordanian Armed Forces stated that the interception was carried out with high efficiency to protect the Kingdom's sovereignty, security, and public safety. The operation resulted in no casualties or material damage. Teams from the Royal Jordanian Engineering Corps secured the missile debris that fell in several locations, ensuring the safety of citizens and property.

1 min read
US to strike Iran hard, reimpose Hormuz blockade, and levy transit feesBreaking
🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·7 hours ago

US to strike Iran hard, reimpose Hormuz blockade, and levy transit fees

US President Donald Trump announced on Monday that the United States would strike Iran "hard" and reimpose a blockade on Iranian ports. This declaration followed a third consecutive night of US military attacks. US Central Command CENTCOM confirmed strikes began at 2045 GMT, aiming to impose costs on Iranian forces and degrade their ability to attack civilians and shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The blockade was set to begin at 2000 GMT on Tuesday, causing oil prices to rise over nine percent. Trump also stated on Truth Social that the US would become "THE GUARDIAN OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT" and charge a 20 percent fee on all cargo passing through, while ensuring "fair and open use of the strait" for other countries. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded on X, mocking Trump's proposed toll but suggesting Tehran could charge a lower fee as a "fair guardian." The US has historically opposed Iran's desire to charge tolls in the strait, citing international law. These developments occurred as both sides exchanged attacks on a scale not seen since an April ceasefire. The US military reported hitting dozens of targets, while Iran's Revolutionary Guards announced strikes on Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, and Oman. Trump also threatened to destroy Pickaxe Mountain, a suspected undeclared enrichment facility in Iran. Despite declaring the ceasefire over, Trump mentioned ongoing negotiations for a permanent settlement. Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei stated the June

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US military launches first marine drone attack on Iranian portBreaking
🇸🇳SeneNews·10 hours ago

US military launches first marine drone attack on Iranian port

The United States military announced it launched unidirectional attack marine drones against the Iranian port of Bandar Abbas, marking the first combat use of these vessels. On Sunday, three Corsair marine drones, which are unmanned surface vessels, targeted a "submarine and ship maintenance facility" in the southern port of Bandar Abbas, according to the US Central Command Centcom on X. Centcom stated that these strikes "degraded Iran's ability to continue attacking commercial vessels." The command also shared a video on X showing the marine drones hitting the maritime facilities, causing two docks to explode. Last month, the US military used a Corsair drone, first deployed to the Middle East in March, to rescue two airmen after their helicopter crashed in the Near East. The Corsair, designed by Texas-based Saronic Technologies, is a 24-foot diesel-powered "autonomous surface vessel" that can be launched at sea, allowing larger ships to deploy and retrieve it without returning to port.

1 min read
Donald Trump announces reinstatement of naval blockade on Iranian ports and new 20% Strait of Hormuz shipping taxBreaking
🇲🇦Le Matin·12 hours ago

Donald Trump announces reinstatement of naval blockade on Iranian ports and new 20% Strait of Hormuz shipping tax

Former US President Donald Trump has declared his intention to reinstate a naval blockade on Iranian ports, stating it will prevent ships or clients of Iran from entering or exiting, while other countries will have free access to the strait. He also announced a new 20% tax on goods transported by ship through the Strait of Hormuz. Trump, on his Truth Social platform, stated that the United States would be known as the "Guardians of the Strait of Hormuz" and would collect this remuneration, equivalent to 20% of cargo value, to cover the costs of ensuring safety and security in the unstable region. He indicated that the implementation of these measures would begin immediately.

1 min read
US and Iran exchange strikes amid escalating tensions over Strait of HormuzBreaking
🇳🇦The Namibian·22 hours ago

US and Iran exchange strikes amid escalating tensions over Strait of Hormuz

The US and Iran have engaged in a new series of strikes, escalating tensions between the two nations. On Sunday evening, the US launched attacks on dozens of Iranian military targets, including air-defense systems, coastal radar sites, and missile and drone capabilities. Iranian state media reported one fatality and four injuries in southwestern Iran following these strikes. In response, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps IRGC claimed to have struck US military bases in Kuwait, Jordan, and Bahrain. These renewed hostilities cast doubt on the future of an interim US-Iran agreement signed in June, which aimed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and achieve a permanent end to the conflict. Iran maintains it has closed the key waterway, while the US insists it remains open and has stated its forces are prepared to ensure freedom of navigation for commercial shipping. Oil prices saw a jump on Monday, with Brent crude rising by 4.3% to $79.26 a barrel and US-traded oil also increasing by 4.3% to $74.50. This follows a previous wave of US strikes on 140 Iranian military targets on Saturday evening, to which the IRGC responded with attacks on US bases and allies, including Qatar and the UAE. US President Donald Trump declared the Iranian attacks meant the ceasefire was over, while Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused the US of violating the deal, though talks are reportedly continuing.

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    Must Read
    🇿🇦The Citizen·2 hours ago

    PIC CEO Patrick Dlamini suspended amid whistleblower allegations

    The Public Investment Corporation PIC Board has placed its Chief Executive, Patrick Dlamini, on precautionary suspension following a whistleblower report submitted last month. This decision, announced on Monday, comes after weeks of internal disagreements and allegations of impropriety. The PIC, which manages the pension savings of 1.3 million civil servants, has faced scrutiny over governance and financial losses from politically connected investments, with approximately R67 billion invested in nearly 150 unlisted entities since 2005, and at least 78 of these experiencing losses. Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana reportedly clashed with PIC Chair David Masondo over the handling of a report commissioned by Dlamini and a subsequent whistleblower tip-off. PIC spokesperson Sipho Mofokeng stated that the suspension provides Dlamini space to respond to allegations and ensures a fair investigation, emphasizing it does not imply wrongdoing. Interim arrangements for an Acting CEO are being finalized. Additionally, the Board announced leadership changes in its investment division, with August Van Heerden ceasing to serve as Acting Chief Investment Officer. Leon Smit, Head for Fixed Income in Listed Investments, will be appointed as Acting CIO. Smit, who joined the PIC in 2000, has previously acted as CIO and holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Business Economics from the University of Pretoria, along with advanced qualifications in Treasury Management, Financial Markets, and FAIS. The PIC

    2 min read
    NAMA and NCAA dispute ticket levy sharing formula
    🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·5 hours ago

    NAMA and NCAA dispute ticket levy sharing formula

    The Nigeria Airspace Management Agency and the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority are in a dispute over the sharing formula for the five percent Ticket Sales Charge. A proposal before the National Assembly seeks to increase NAMA's share, leading to concerns from NCAA labor unions that this could weaken safety oversight. However, industry experts argue that NAMA, responsible for operating Nigeria's aviation infrastructure 24/7, carries a significant operational burden. NAMA's responsibilities include maintaining sophisticated Communication, Navigation and Surveillance technologies, which require substantial capital investment and continuous maintenance, often in remote areas with unreliable electricity. Retired pilot Mohammed Badamosi highlighted NAMA's larger workforce and extensive equipment maintenance across the country, contrasting it with NCAA's smaller regional offices. Currently, NCAA receives about 56 percent of the Ticket Sales Charge, while NAMA receives 23 percent. The Joint Action Committee of the NCAA suggests commercializing or partially privatizing NAMA as a more sustainable funding solution. However, proponents of the bill argue that stronger statutory funding is immediately needed. Former Commandant of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Group Captain John Ojikutu, called for a rational review of the revenue-sharing formula based on objective parameters like personnel strength, operational spread, and infrastructure ownership, rather than sentiments or

    World Bank warns of fragile global food supplyMust Read
    🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·5 hours ago

    World Bank warns of fragile global food supply

    The World Bank has issued a warning about the fragility of the global food system, despite adequate overall supplies. The June 2026 Food & Nutrition Security Update highlights vulnerabilities stemming from rising input costs, geopolitical tensions, and climate threats, which could undermine progress in poverty reduction. Global food supplies are sufficient, but higher costs and supply chain disruptions continue to pressure prices, and major cereal production is expected to decrease from 2025 levels. Fertiliser prices increased by 35 percent in the first five months of 2026 compared to the previous year, potentially impacting future harvests due to reduced application by farmers. An impending El Niño cycle, with a 61 to 87 percent probability of emerging by mid-2026 and persisting into 2027, could reduce rice output by 20 to 50 percent in vulnerable regions like South Asia, Southern Africa, and parts of East Asia. Domestic food price inflation remains high globally, with low-income countries experiencing a deterioration; the share of these countries with food inflation above five percent rose from 40 to 45 percent between April and May 2026. Conflict-ridden and climate-stressed areas are most affected, with 44 to 47 million people in East Africa needing urgent food assistance, and famine confirmed in parts of Sudan with risks in Somalia. The World Bank projects a 38 percent rise in overall fertiliser prices for the year, emphasizing that these pressures risk reversing gains in

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    🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·6 hours ago

    Artificial intelligence and the evolving value of human competence

    Artificial intelligence is fundamentally changing the value of human competence by reducing the cost of producing knowledge while increasing the importance of judgment. Historically, expertise was linked to access to information and experience, which required significant effort and time. AI now allows for rapid generation of business strategies, literature reviews, campaign concepts, and financial report summaries across various industries, making the mechanics of knowledge production significantly easier. However, the ability to evaluate knowledge and exercise sound judgment becomes more valuable. While AI democratizes access to intelligence, it does not democratize competence, which is built through exposure to uncertainty, decision-making with incomplete information, and understanding consequences and trade-offs. AI excels at pattern recognition and predicting statistically likely responses, but prediction differs from judgment. Judgment determines appropriateness, decides if history applies, and accepts responsibility for choices, whereas prediction identifies probability and generates possibilities. Context, which includes timing, culture, stakeholder expectations, and individual circumstances, remains a crucial and less transferable dimension of intelligence. The fluency of AI's communication can be mistaken for sound reasoning, making the ability to distinguish between the two a critical professional skill. AI also makes expertise less visible but more valuable, shifti

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    Algeria ranks higher than France in Global Peace Index 2026
    🇩🇿Algérie360·12 hours ago

    Algeria ranks higher than France in Global Peace Index 2026

    The Global Peace Index GPI 2026, published by the Institute for Economics & Peace, reveals that global peace has declined for the 12th consecutive year. The report, based on 23 indicators including crime levels, internal conflicts, political stability, and militarization, shows a record number of active wars since 1945. Iceland maintains its position as the safest country for the 19th year, followed by New Zealand, Switzerland, Slovenia, and Ireland. Countries like Sudan, DR Congo, and Ukraine are at the bottom of the ranking, with Myanmar being the most critical in the Asia-Pacific region and Russia at the global bottom. Algeria is ranked 91st globally with a score of 2053 points, a slight drop of five positions from the previous edition. In the MENA region, Algeria is 8th, following Qatar, Kuwait, and Oman, and close behind Morocco, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, and Tunisia. Notably, Algeria surpasses France in the ranking, with France at a concerning 99th place among 163 nations.

    3 min read
    Royal Air Maroc to offer record 8.2 million seats this summer
    🇲🇦Le Matin·13 hours ago

    Royal Air Maroc to offer record 8.2 million seats this summer

    Royal Air Maroc will deploy nearly 8.2 million seats during summer 2026, marking a 23% increase year-on-year. The national airline will connect Morocco to 86 international destinations using a modernized fleet of 67 aircraft.

    5 min read
    Morocco joins Mastercard's Priceless experiences platform, expanding unique African travel opportunities
    🇲🇦Le Matin·15 hours ago

    Morocco joins Mastercard's Priceless experiences platform, expanding unique African travel opportunities

    Mastercard has launched Priceless Africa, a platform that allows cardholders to access unique travel experiences across the continent, with Morocco now included. These experiences are categorized by passion points such as culture, gastronomy, nature, wildlife, and adventure, enabling travelers to explore their interests safely and easily. Mastercard also offers travel benefits including hotel and flight discounts, airport lounge access, and seamless booking on major travel platforms, car rentals, and e-hailing services. This initiative comes as African tourism experiences significant growth, with the continent welcoming 81 million international tourists in 2025, an 8% increase from the previous year, according to UN Tourism. Ahmed Abdel-Karim Hussein, Executive Vice President of Marketing and Communications for the Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa EEMEA region at Mastercard, stated that Priceless Africa aims to connect people with their passions and the extraordinary spirit of the African continent through authentic and unforgettable experiences, supported by secure and seamless Mastercard payment options. Examples of available experiences include a hot air balloon safari in Amboseli National Park, a candlelit ceremony at Cape Coast Castle, gorilla trekking in Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park, and a Bedouin dinner in Morocco's Agafay stone desert. The platform also features adventures like climbing Le Morne Brabant in Mauritius, a dhow trip in Zanzibar, rhino tracking

    Ashton Hall names Nigeria as favorite African destination, calls Lagos "African Miami
    🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·19 hours ago

    Ashton Hall names Nigeria as favorite African destination, calls Lagos "African Miami

    American fitness influencer Ashton Hall has identified Nigeria as his favorite African destination following a recent tour of the continent. He remarked that Lagos reminded him of "an African version of Miami." Hall shared these comments during an interview on his Kick account after concluding his multi-country African tour. He praised Nigeria's vibrant culture, hospitality, and cuisine, stating that the country made the strongest impression on him among all the African nations he visited. While he described Nigeria as an incredible place to visit, Hall indicated he would prefer to return occasionally rather than relocate permanently. His visit to Nigeria generated significant social media excitement, with fans, celebrities, and content creators welcoming him. During his stay in Lagos, he met music executive Don Jazzy and collaborated with Nigerian streamers and digital creators, attracting millions of views. Hall's continental tour also included South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Ghana. Throughout the trip, he shared videos showcasing local cuisines, tourist attractions, fitness activities, and cultural experiences, which garnered significant online engagement. Hall gained prominence through his fitness and motivational content on social media, documenting his disciplined lifestyle and workout routines. His trademark videos, featuring structured morning routines and motivational narration, became viral sensations, earning him millions of followers. His popularity inc

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    Must Read
    🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·6 hours ago

    Artificial intelligence and the evolving value of human competence

    Artificial intelligence is fundamentally changing the value of human competence by reducing the cost of producing knowledge while increasing the importance of judgment. Historically, expertise was linked to access to information and experience, which required significant effort and time. AI now allows for rapid generation of business strategies, literature reviews, campaign concepts, and financial report summaries across various industries, making the mechanics of knowledge production significantly easier. However, the ability to evaluate knowledge and exercise sound judgment becomes more valuable. While AI democratizes access to intelligence, it does not democratize competence, which is built through exposure to uncertainty, decision-making with incomplete information, and understanding consequences and trade-offs. AI excels at pattern recognition and predicting statistically likely responses, but prediction differs from judgment. Judgment determines appropriateness, decides if history applies, and accepts responsibility for choices, whereas prediction identifies probability and generates possibilities. Context, which includes timing, culture, stakeholder expectations, and individual circumstances, remains a crucial and less transferable dimension of intelligence. The fluency of AI's communication can be mistaken for sound reasoning, making the ability to distinguish between the two a critical professional skill. AI also makes expertise less visible but more valuable, shifti

    Sport News

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    Anthony Joshua says career trials make him stronger ahead of Kristian Prenga fight
    🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·3 hours ago

    Anthony Joshua says career trials make him stronger ahead of Kristian Prenga fight

    British-Nigerian heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua stated that the challenges in his career have reinforced his strength as he prepares to face Kristian Prenga in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on July 25. Joshua, who holds a record of 29 wins, four losses, and 26 knockouts, reflected on his decade-long career, which includes a second-round knockout of Charles Martin in 2016 for his first world title and a victory over Wladimir Klitschko in 2017. Despite significant highs, he has also faced lows, such as a knockout loss to Andy Ruiz Jr. in 2019 and a one-sided knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in September 2024. A recent knockout win over Jake Paul in December boosted his American profile, but this was followed by a car accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two friends. Joshua, 36, remains determined to return to the top and anticipates a long-awaited showdown with Tyson Fury later this year, provided both win their upcoming fights.

    3 min read
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    Gabon's social media ban: civil society groups demand immediate lifting, citing constitutional violations and increased cybercrimeMust Read
    🇬🇦Gabon Review·12 hours ago

    Gabon's social media ban: civil society groups demand immediate lifting, citing constitutional violations and increased cybercrime

    Six civil society organizations in Gabon, led by Patrice Thérence Mezui, are demanding the immediate lifting of the social media suspension, which has been in effect for five months. They argue that the decision by the High Authority of Communication HAC is unconstitutional, disproportionate, and an abuse of power. The groups, including the Network of Free Civil Society Organizations for Good Governance in Gabon ROLBG and SOS Prisoners, met on July 11 in Libreville to denounce the ban, which was implemented to combat "informational disorders, cyberbullying, and the dissemination of hateful content." The organizations contend that while they share the goals of a healthy digital space, the repressive method used has punished millions of citizens, small and medium-sized enterprises, startups, and informal sector actors who rely on these digital channels for their daily economic activities. They highlight that the ban has inadvertently led to a surge in cyberattacks and account hacking, as citizens resort to Virtual Private Networks VPNs to bypass restrictions, creating significant digital security vulnerabilities. Patrice Thérence Mezui warned that this widespread vulnerability could impact state systems, banking institutions, and other vital sectors. Legally, the groups cite Article 14 of the Constitution, Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples'

    4 min read
    🇹🇳Business News·15 hours ago

    Tunisia ranks 110th globally in responsible AI index, lags behind African and regional peers

    Tunisia ranks 110th out of 135 countries and jurisdictions in the 2026 Global Index on Responsible AI GIRAI, scoring 16.37 out of 100. This places Tunisia significantly below the global average of approximately 35 points and far behind European nations that lead the ranking. The index assesses public authorities' capacity to regulate AI, protect fundamental rights, ensure system transparency, and establish oversight and recourse mechanisms, rather than technological development or company performance. The data for the report covers November 1, 2023, to September 30, 2025. Tunisia's scores across the five dimensions of AI governance are: 19.22 for inclusion and diversity, 9.61 for ethics and sustainability, 13.46 for labor and skills, 23.52 for trust and security, and 16.04 for AI use in public services. Trust and security is the highest-rated dimension, while ethics and sustainability is the lowest. The country received a zero score for civil society engagement in AI governance. General conditions for responsible AI development, such as institutional, legal, and technical capacities, scored 49.22 out of 100. These results indicate that while Tunisia has some favorable conditions, they have not yet translated into effective public policies or control mechanisms. Globally, Norway leads the index with 75.26 points, followed by Italy 72.71 and Ireland 71.39. France is fourth 70.32, the Netherlands fifth 69.51, and Germany sixth 68.98. The UK is seventh 67.27, followed by Slovenia

    6 min read
    Digital disruption impacts media houses globally, prompting calls for corporate support
    🇳🇦The Namibian·15 hours ago

    Digital disruption impacts media houses globally, prompting calls for corporate support

    Media organizations worldwide are experiencing financial strain due to the digital transformation of news consumption and funding models. Nangula Shejavali, representing the Namibia Media Trust board, stated in Windhoek that the current media model is under significant pressure. She highlighted that digital disruption has altered information consumption, global platforms aggressively compete for advertising revenue, and misinformation spreads rapidly, often overshadowing verified reporting. Shejavali emphasized the increased need for quality journalism, as digitalization allows widespread content publication. She noted that trusted journalism serves as a reliable source for facts and accountability. Consequently, Shejavali called for corporations to support media houses. During the same event, The Namibian editor Johnathan Beukes announced the introduction of 'Good News' pages in the newspaper's daily coverage, aiming to highlight positive community and national initiatives. Shejavali expressed enthusiasm for this initiative, underscoring the importance of sharing positive stories.

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    Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie emphasizes focus for WAFCON 2026
    🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·3 hours ago

    Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie emphasizes focus for WAFCON 2026

    Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie has stated that Nigeria cannot afford to lose focus at any point during the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. The defending champions are in Morocco for their final preparations for the tournament. Nnadozie, a Brighton goalkeeper and the reigning African Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year, was among the first players to arrive at the team’s training camp in Casablanca. She highlighted that the Super Falcons will approach the competition one game at a time, aiming for a record-extending 11th continental title and qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Nnadozie noted that the expanded WAFCON format, featuring 16 teams for the first time, will make the competition more competitive but will not change Nigeria's focused approach. Preparations intensified with players reporting to camp in Casablanca for a week-long training program in Mohammedia. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade, Asisat Oshoala, and several other players were among the early arrivals. The training camp will allow head coach Justine Madugu to refine tactics and build team chemistry before the tournament, which runs from July 26 to August 16 in Morocco. The Super Falcons are drawn in Group C and will begin their title defense against Malawi on July 28, followed by matches against Zambia on August 1 and Egypt on August 5.

    8 min read
    Junior D'Tigers qualify for 2026 FIBA U-18 AfroBasket with unbeaten run
    🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·3 hours ago

    Junior D'Tigers qualify for 2026 FIBA U-18 AfroBasket with unbeaten run

    Nigeria's U-18 men's basketball team, the Junior D'Tigers, have qualified for the 2026 FIBA U-18 AfroBasket championship after an unbeaten performance at the FIBA Africa Zone 3 Qualifiers in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. The team won all four of their matches, securing their spot in the continental championship to be held in Ivory Coast from August 3 to 16. This qualification means both Nigeria's male and female U-18 teams will compete in the tournament. The Junior D'Tigers concluded the qualifiers with a 100-54 victory over hosts Burkina Faso, having also defeated Benin twice 96-35 and 101-43 and Burkina Faso once before 98-54. The tournament featured Nigeria, Benin, and Burkina Faso, following Liberia's withdrawal. The National Sports Commission, through its Director-General Bukola Olopade, congratulated the players and encouraged their continued development. Nigeria Basketball Federation President Musa Kida also lauded the team's success, attributing it to the federation's focus on grassroots development.

    1 min read
    Nigerians call for NFF leadership change after Super Eagles miss second consecutive World CupMust Read
    🇳🇬Punch Nigeria·4 hours ago

    Nigerians call for NFF leadership change after Super Eagles miss second consecutive World Cup

    Nigeria's failure to qualify for a second consecutive FIFA World Cup has led to increased calls for a leadership change within the Nigeria Football Federation NFF. Football stakeholders are urging the current board to take responsibility and step down ahead of the federation's next electoral cycle. Former Nigeria international Abiodun Obafemi supports an overhaul to restore stability to Nigerian football, stating that the country cannot continue with the status quo. Former Green Eagles captain Segun Odegbami attributes the Super Eagles' absence from the tournament to deep-rooted administrative problems rather than a lack of talent, emphasizing that those in charge must accept responsibility for the decline. He also noted the lack of enthusiasm in Nigeria during the ongoing World Cup as a reflection of this disappointment. Calls for accountability have gained momentum, with some fans on social media demanding action from the NFF leadership. However, National Sports Commission Director-General Bukola Olopade insists that any change at the NFF must occur through democratic means, not public pressure. Olopade also rejected the idea that the current leadership is solely to blame for the back-to-back World Cup failures, attributing the first missed qualification to the previous administration led by Amaju Pinnick and highlighting the current board's performance in other tournaments as evidence of progress.

    4 min read