Kenya

Deal bad for Kenya, MPS say as they poke holes in e-Citizen

Legislators have raised questions over the e-Citizen consultancy agreement signed by the government. The main concern highlighted regarding the agreement signed is the loopholes likely to cost taxpayers colossal sums of money and the risks of data breaches. The loopholes are tailored to the interests of the suppliers. The Auditor General is conducting a special platform audit in tandem with government concerns. The Audit is set to look into physical security (IT and controls in place relating to data and electronic payments) and the technical aspect (the maintenance, support and customer care) relating to the digital platform.

(Daily Nation)

Uganda

Why John Kazoora regretted his military rank

John Kazoora, former Kashari County MP and National Resistance Army (NRA) fighter, held the rank of Major—his only rank in the military—despite years of service. He later criticised the movement he once served, particularly President Museveni, for abandoning their ideals, including term limits. In an interview following the launch of his memoir Betrayed by My Leader, Kazoora reflected on a life marked by service, betrayal, and political resistance. He served as Kampala’s Special District Administrator and Director for Political Affairs at ISO, where he faced but denied corruption allegations. In Parliament, he was known for his principled stance, especially during debates on constitutional amendments. His legacy includes being a founder of the Parliamentary Advocacy Forum (PAFO). Kazoora will be laid to rest on April 24, 2025, in Rutooma, Kashari, with much of his story already captured in his own words.

(The Independent)

Tanzania

PM stresses ethical values

The Prime Minister has called for the responsible use of technology, including social media, to safeguard Tanzania’s customs, norms, values, and culture. He raised concerns over the unethical use of technology, warning that it poses a risk of moral erosion, which could negatively impact the community’s welfare. The Prime Minister linked the threat to the digital revolution, noting that increased global connectivity has made local values more susceptible to external influences. He tasked the Ministry of Information, Culture, Arts and Sports with the responsibility of ensuring that cultural officers know the dangers of technology misuse and the advantages of responsible use. He reiterated that, if managed properly, the digital revolution presents significant economic potential for the country.

(Daily News)

Rwanda

Gen. Nzabamwita presents credentials to represent Rwanda in Russia

Maj. Gen. Joseph Nzabamwita, Rwanda’s ambassador-designate to Russia, presented his letters of credence to Mikhail Bogdanov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, on April 22. Nzabamwita was appointed to the role in December 2024, bringing with him a background in national security, having previously served as Presidential Advisor on Security and Secretary General of the National Intelligence and Security Services (NISS). He succeeds Lt. Gen. Mushyo Kamanzi, who had served as Rwanda’s envoy to Russia since 2019. Diplomatic relations between Rwanda and Russia date back to 1963, with both countries enjoying cordial ties supported by resident ambassador-level missions. Areas of cooperation include political engagement, military collaboration, education, human resource development, training, and cultural exchange.

(The New Times)

Ethiopia

PM’s visit to Vietnam broadened cooperation, says snr officials

According to senior government officials, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s official visit to Vietnam has significantly broadened the horizons of cooperation between the two nations. The Minister of Communication Services stated that the discussions of the visit were focused on leveraging Ethiopia’s priority on rice following the success of wheat cultivation as part of its food sovereignty. There were also conversations surrounding exports in Vietnam and the opportunities for Ethiopia.  The Minister stated that the recent agreement for Ethiopian Airlines to launch direct flights to Hanoi was a crucial bridge connecting Ethiopia and Africa with Vietnam to boost tourism, manufacturing, and foreign direct investment. The officials stated that the engagement of the Ethiopian delegation in Vietnam concluded with an agreement to expand cooperation in trade, investment, education, and other sectors.

(ENA)