Kenya

He Missed The Nobel But Won Many Hearts

Renowned Kenyan writer Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, who passed away on Wednesday, was long seen as a top contender for the Nobel Prize in Literature—a recognition that, despite years of anticipation, never came. From 2010 to 2022, he consistently featured on Nobel prediction lists, drawing praise from literary circles and bookmakers alike. In 2020, The New York Times noted: “Ngũgĩ, 82, has been tipped to win for a decade…” But like Chinua Achebe before him, another African literary giant overlooked by the Nobel Committee, Ngũgĩ was passed over year after year. The prize instead went to others—Abdulrazak Gurnah in 2021, Annie Ernaux in 2022. Still, Ngũgĩ remained unfazed. Though the Nobel Prize never bore his name, he earned something greater: the lasting respect, love, and influence he held over generations worldwide.

(Daily Nation)

Tanzania

Immigration, TCAA to Modernise Passenger Data Sharing

Tanzania’s Immigration Department has signed an agreement with the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) to improve national security through the digital exchange of air passenger data. This marks a shift from outdated manual processes to real-time, digital information sharing. Though the two institutions had previously shared traveller information, the system was inefficient. The new integration will enhance border security by providing instant access to verified passenger data, while also strengthening aviation oversight and advancing the country’s broader goals of digital transformation and institutional cooperation.

(Daily News)

Uganda

Police Streamlines Safety Measures for Pilgrims from Busoga, Kenya

Police in the Kiira region have unveiled a road safety plan to protect pilgrims travelling to the Namugongo Martyrs Shrine. According to regional police spokesperson James Mubi, security has been reinforced in identified hotspot areas to prevent potential attacks on pilgrims. Kenyan and Tanzanian pilgrims entering Uganda through various border points will be escorted by police patrol vehicles to ensure safe passage. An ambulance will also follow closely to provide immediate First Aid if needed.

(The Independent)

Rwanda

We Must Raise Leaders Ready to Fight for Pan-Africanism – Tito Rutaremara

The Chair of the Rwanda Elders Advisory Forum, Tito Rutaremara, says that colonial and imperial legacies continue to undermine Africa’s development. He warned that former colonial powers continue to control global wealth, forcing African nations to rely on aid with strings attached. “They still own the economy—this mindset blocks self-reliance,” he said. Rutaremara also criticised Africa’s colonial-rooted education and belief systems, calling them mental chains, and highlighted the continent’s military and political dependency. He urged the rise of bold, Pan-African leaders ready to fight for real independence. Amb. Vincent Karega and Pan African Movement Chair Protais Musoni echoed his concerns, pointing to deep-rooted structural barriers. They also reflected on Africa Day and the 1963 push for unity and self-determination.

(The New Times)

Ethiopia

Ethiopia Repatriates Over 700 Citizens from Myanmar: Foreign Ministry   

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced it has repatriated over 700 Ethiopians from Myanmar who were living in harsh conditions. The spokesperson for the ministry, Nebiat Getachew Assegid, stated that efforts continue under a citizen-centred diplomacy approach to bring Ethiopians back from difficult situations abroad. He called on the public to support these efforts by reporting individuals and organisations involved in illegal activities and fraud, particularly those deceiving people with false promises of jobs and free education overseas. The government is also collaborating with international bodies, including INTERPOL, to hold such entities accountable, particularly those that exploit citizens through social media platforms.

(ENA)