Africa News today is all about Africa, including countries and regions around the continent as well as international news concerning the area. We bring you the latest headlines, top stories, and useful information to help you stay informed about what is happening in Africa.
Top Stories
There are a number of important stories making the headlines in Africa today. Here are some of the biggest news items.
Nigeria Seizes Over 100 Tons Of Illegal Ivory
Nigeria has reportedly seized over 100 tons of illegal Ivory, bringing the amount of contraband confiscated this year to over 300 tons. The nation's police and customs service said that they have intercepted and disrupted many ivory smuggling attempts, arresting suspects and dismantling their illegal operations. The latest case involved a boatload of the illegal product that was seized off the coast of Nigeria. Officials believe the huge cache of ivory was headed for Asia, where it would have been sold on the black market.
Lagos Airport To Close On Christmas And New Year's Eve
Lagos International Airport will be closing on Christmas Day and New Year's Eve, March 25th and March 31st this year. The airport has announced that there will be no passenger operations on those days, with only scheduled flights except for a few charter flights. The airport has advised the public to make alternative travel arrangements on those days if they want to travel by air.
Ethiopia To Impose Tight Restrictions On International Tourism
Ethiopia will be imposing tighter restrictions on tourism to protect the country's natural treasures. According to a recent report by the U.S. Travel Association (USTA), Ethiopia is one of the world's most exciting travel destinations, due in large part to its colorful historical sites and majestic landscapes. However, the USTA advises travelers to be mindful of the country's protected areas, warning that anyone found in violation of the law could be prosecuted. Traveling to Ethiopia as part of a group could also be dangerous, the organization said, due to the potential for violence caused by banditry and illegal mining. The government has been accused of not doing enough to protect the country's parks and natural spaces, as well as the lives of those who live within them. The Ministry of Tourism and the Environment has denied these claims, saying that all the necessary measures are being taken to ensure the safety of tourists, as well as those who live in the vicinity of the national parks. The ministry also points out that foreign visitors have been responsible for a great deal of economic growth in Ethiopia, as well as the development of local communities. Some of the restrictions that will be introduced include a ban on photographing certain animals in their natural habitat and a limit on the number of guides that can accompany foreign tourists. Other than that, entry to national parks will be free of charge.
Rwanda's Mount Rwandan Empire
Rwanda's Mount Rwandan Empire, often referred to as ‘The Mountain of a Thousand Hills', is a collection of ancient volcanoes that tower over the valley they have created. It is home to hundreds of species of plants and animals, including the endangered Mountain gorilla. The entire area is a World Heritage Site. Although it is not yet inhabited, visitors can take a hike, walk to a lake, or climb one of the volcanoes to get a fantastic view of the valley and its landmarks. If you plan to visit Rwanda, then the list of wonders that await you is endless. The country is known for its warm hospitality, delicious local cuisine, and fascinating culture.
Mali Bans Gold Mining As Part Of Its New Eco-Policy
Mali, the world's smallest country, has issued a decree banning all forms of gold mining as part of its new eco-policy. The country's president, Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, said the government has already started implementing the policy, which aims to protect the environment by reducing overconsumption. As a result of the policy, only renewable energy projects will be permitted, with the exception of small-scale artisanal mining. This is an important move for Mali, one of the world's poorest countries, as it has a history of unrest tied to the country's mineral resources, which supply a large portion of the world's demand for gold. Artisanal mining, which involves small-scale mining that is carried out without the use of modern equipment, is an important source of livelihood for many Malians. While the country's government has taken steps to protect its environment, local communities have been protesting the policy, saying that it will destroy the industry that provides them with jobs. The communities also accuse the government of not doing enough to provide for their welfare. However, Mali's new eco-policy will provide for the needs of the country's poorest residents, protecting their right to a secure and sustainable future. Artisanal mining, which employs many locals, provides them with a way out of poverty and ensures the security of the country's mineral resources for future generations. Many other African countries, such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, have also banned or restricted gold mining due to its damaging effects on the environment. The industry is still allowed in some parts of the DRC, but the government there has placed restrictions on the number of surface mines that can operate. In other parts of the world, such as the United States, Canada, and Australia, gold mining has been completely outlawed, with those who defy the law facing severe penalties. In 2018, Venezuela became the first country in history to eradicate poverty while also eliminating homelessness and malnutrition thanks in part to its extensive quantities of gold, which has been used to issue its own branded gold coins. Venezuela is also credited with being the first country to implement a universal healthcare system in South America. The government there has also introduced a radical job creation program, employing hundreds of thousands of people and providing them with new homes, sanitation, and medical services. Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro has stated that mining will be used to rebuild the country after its devastating economic crisis. The country is also home to the biggest oil reserves in the world. The government there is also planning on constructing a special train that will run on tracks made of solid gold, which will only be used to transport oil.
Djibouti To Ban Plastic Shopping Bags
Djibouti, often referred to as the ‘little Africa' due to its stunning landscape and balmy climate, has banned the manufacture, import, and use of plastic shopping bags. The country's Ministry of Trade said that the new law, which was signed last month, will reduce pollution and waste. According to the ministry, over 90% of the plastic waste that is disposed of is in the form of shopping bags, which are also frequently found in the country's oceans, threatening marine life. The law will take effect on January 1st, 2022. The ministry also said that it will start a waste management program in July this year, diverting waste from landfill and composting it instead. This will not only reduce pollution but will provide much-needed compost for the country's agricultural sector. It is a small step towards protecting the environment in the country, which is one of the world's poorest but also one of its most stunning and beautiful nations. A staggering number of its residents, particularly those living in the countryside, still rely on hand-made fishing nets to make a living. The country is also known for its beautiful traditional costumes and lively festivals, which celebrate its diverse cultural heritage.
Lesotho Bans Plastic Shopping Bags
Lesotho, which means ‘land of the rains', has also banned plastic shopping bags. The country, located in Southern Africa, follows in the footsteps of its East African neighbor, whose economy largely depends on tourism and remittance workers. According to the Ministry of Industry, Mines, and Commerce, the ban will reduce waste by preventing garbage from being produced and also eliminate the need for plastic bags when shopping. The government is also considering a levy on single-use plastic shopping bags in an attempt to reduce pollution and damage to the environment. The majority of Lesotho's population, like the ones in other African countries, live in poverty, and the government is considering a tax on hotels, guesthouses, and clubs to help mitigate the effects of climate change and assist local communities in reducing their plastic waste. The country is also looking into switching to more sustainable means of energy generation, implementing renewable energy projects and boosting energy efficiency across all sectors.