Africa: Focac 2024 – The Benefits Accruing to Africa

Ghanaian authorities have seized a luxury Lamborghini Urus linked to musician Shatta Wale amid allegations of its connection to fraudster Nana Kwabena Amuah, who is imprisoned in the US. Wale, claiming he is a "third-party owner," criticized the armed recovery operation and stated he had purchased the car for $150,000, while it will be returned to the US as part of Amuah's restitution. Want More Context? 🔎

Members of Nigeria's national female basketball team, D'Tigress, will receive $100,000 and three-bedroom flats each following their victory at the Fiba Women's AfroBasket Championship, securing their seventh title and a spot in next year's World Cup. Mixed reactions have emerged regarding the sustainability of these rewards, given the country's economic challenges and past delays in fulfilling similar promises. Want More Context? 🔎

Ghana's Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed were among eight people killed in a military helicopter crash in the Ashanti region. The aircraft, en route from Accra to Obuasi for an event on illegal mining, went off the radar, prompting national mourning and tributes from President John Mahama and other officials. Want More Context? 🔎

Nigeria's customs agency intercepted over 1,600 birds, including ring-necked parrots and canaries, at Lagos International Airport in the country's largest wildlife-trafficking bust. The shipment lacked necessary documentation, prompting an investigation to prosecute those responsible, while the birds will be rehabilitated before being released into the wild. Want More Context? 🔎

The US will implement a 12-month pilot program requiring citizens from Malawi and Zambia to pay a $15,000 deposit for tourist or business visas to reduce visa overstays. This initiative stems from President Trump's efforts to curb illegal immigration and may expand to other countries with high overstay rates, as identified by the State Department. Want More Context? 🔎

The Charity Commission found no evidence of widespread bullying or harassment at Sentebale, the charity founded by Prince Harry, following a public dispute that led to his resignation. While the current leadership will remain, the commission criticized all parties for the damaging public fallout and provided a regulatory action plan to address governance weaknesses. Want More Context? 🔎