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Two Mauritania MPs jailed for accusing the president of racial discrimination.

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Two female opposition politicians in Mauritania were sentenced to four years in prison on Monday for insulting the president and claiming racial injustice, their lawyers told The Associated Press.

Mariem Cheikh and Ghamou Achour were accused of using social media to describe President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani as the mentor of “apartheid in Mauritania.”

The two are members of the human rights organization Initiative for the Resurgence of the Abolitionist Movement.

They were charged last month with “attacking the symbols of the state” and “calling for gatherings with a view to undermine public security.”

The two lawmakers had called in several social media posts for Ghazouani’s removal and accused the Arab-dominated justice system of treating Black citizens and descendants of slaves as second-class citizens.

In its decision late on Monday, the court in the capital Nouakchott also ordered the removal of digital content, the confiscation of their phones and the closure of their online accounts.

The lawmakers’ attorneys — Mohamed Ould Ahmed Miske, Yaghoub Ould Sèïf and Moctar Ould Ely — confirmed the verdict of the trial at a criminal court in the capital Nouakchott to the AP. The government has not commented on the conviction.

Long-lasting impact of slavery

The West African nation has long been denounced for human rights abuses, with the continuous existence of slavery casting a long shadow over its history.

For centuries, the country’s economic and political elite of Arab and Amazigh people enslaved Black people from the northwest Sahara.

Mauritania outlawed slavery in 1981, the last country in the world to do so. But the practice continues, human rights groups say, with around 149,000 people in modern slavery in this nation of less than 5 million, according to the 2023 Global Slavery Index.

Biram Dah Abeid, leader of the Initiative for the Resurgence of the Abolitionist Movement coalition group, condemned the trial as unjust and politically motivated, calling the two lawmakers “heroes” and “sincere fighters against injustice,” at a news conference after the verdict.

The lawmakers are with the coalition, which is not a registered political party but allied with the registered Sawab party to help them get elected.

Nigerians attempt to return from South Africa over xenophobia concerns.

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Nigerians in South Africa are increasingly attempting to return home as xenophobic sentiments rise, with Abuja officials acknowledging that many of those demanding evacuation do not have legal residency cards.

Kimiebi Ebienfa, a spokesperson for Nigeria’s foreign ministry, noted that the voluntary repatriation campaign primarily includes persons whose legal status in South Africa has gone.

“Those that have indicated interest for a voluntary return to Nigeria are some persons that don’t have… the legal requirement to live in South Africa. Maybe those that their visas have expired, or their documentation is not regular,” he said.

“Instead of remaining there to be caught up with law enforcement… they are pleading to just leave the country and our missions are taking that up with them.”

Recurring incidents

The development comes as tensions rise following reports of anti-immigration protests and the deaths of two Nigerians in police custody, prompting diplomatic engagement between Abuja and Pretoria.

In Nigeria’s capital, residents voiced concern over the recurring nature of such incidents.

Elijah Kadiri urged stronger government action: “What our government has to do, is to liaise with the South African government, and see how they can be able to stop it, because this is not the first time… where they start maltreating foreigners, killing foreigners.”

Activists have also criticised what they see as a muted response from South African authorities.

Sydney Usman Godwin said: “For over four months, these xenophobic attacks on Nigerians and other African nationals living in South Africa has not attracted the condemnation of Cyril Ramaphosa.”

While South African officials have condemned violence against foreign nationals and pledged action, the situation continues to fuel anxiety among migrant communities, with more Nigerians expected to opt for voluntary return in the coming days.

Government engages large-scale mining companies on GANRAP  

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Government has engaged large‑scale mining companies to advance the implementation of the Ghana Accelerated National Reserve Accumulation Policy (GANRAP). 

The policy is aimed at strengthening reserves and supporting a more stable cedi. 

The meeting was co‑chaired by Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, Minister of Finance, and Mr Emmanuel Armah‑Kofi Buah, Minister of Lands and Natural Resources.  

“Our focus is strengthening reserves and supporting a more stable cedi,” Dr Forson said. 

He explained that under GANRAP, government was undertaking targeted reforms to improve gold acquisition processes while ensuring greater oversight and adherence to regulatory requirements. 

The engagement brought together leadership of large‑scale mining companies, Mr Sammy Gyamfi, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Gold Board, and officials from the Minerals Commission. 

Dr Forson described the discussions as constructive, emphasising that the policy was being implemented in partnership with industry.  

“This is a partnership. It is not anti‑industry. It is pro‑country,” he said. 

GANRAP forms a central component of government’s strategy to build a stronger reserve position, reduce vulnerability to external shocks, and enhance currency stability over the medium term. 

Invasion 2026 set to light up spirit of worship in August

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Accra is set to host a major worship and revival gathering in August as Prophet Benjamin Fordjour announces, “Invasion 2026,” a two‑day faith event centered on worship, prayer and prophetic ministry.

The programme, themed “The Supernatural” and inspired by Psalm 82:6, is scheduled for Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 August 2026, beginning at 4:00pm each day at The Palms Convention Centre in Accra.

Organised by Benjamin Fordjour Ministries, the event is expected to bring together worshippers, church leaders, young Christians and faith seekers for two evenings of collective worship, teaching and spiritual reflection.

Guest ministers announced for the gathering include Dr Kwadwo Bempah Boateng and Senior Prophet Isaac Anto, alongside host Prophet Benjamin Fordjour.

The event would focus on deep worship sessions, prophetic teachings and moments of prayer aimed at strengthening faith and renewing spiritual commitment.

The gathering is also expected to feature worship encounters and testimonies from participants.

Speaking ahead of the event, Prophet Benjamin Fordjour described Invasion 2026 as an opportunity for believers to reconnect with God and reflect on their spiritual identity and purpose.

He noted that the meeting is intended to provide space for worship, restoration and personal renewal.

The theme of the programme draws attention to the role of faith and spiritual authority in everyday life, particularly for young people seeking direction and meaning in challenging times.

In recent weeks, anticipation has been building within Christian and worship communities in Accra and beyond, with many describing the gathering as a significant moment on the city’s faith and worship calendar.

Veep, Energy Minister, others to headline Ishmael Yamson & Associates’ Pan-African

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President, Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, will speak on leadership, governance, and the future of Africa atlshmael Yamson & Associates’ (IYA)12th edition of the prestigious Business Roundtable on May 28, 2026 in Accra. 

This year, the Roundtable dramatically expands its scope beyond national policy, becoming a crucial platform for exploring the strategic direction and economic relevance of not just Ghanaian, but African business.

A statement issued in Accra said the Roundtable is on the theme, “Unlocking the Next Quarter Century.” 

It said the event would gather up to 1,000 in-person delegates and over 15,000 remote participants from across the continent for a high-impact day of practical dialogue, cross-sector collaboration, and investment networking.

The Business Roundtable 2026 is designed to bridge government and business interests, focusing on five strategic pillars vital for future competitiveness

These are digital infrastructure: focusing on shared infrastructure and regional data centres, trade & integration: leveraging opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and energy & industry: Plpromoting sustainable industrial growth.

The rest are leadership & governance: emphasizing resilient institutions and effective public-private partnerships (PPPs) and societal development: highlighting the critical role of Africa’s youth in securing global relevance.

The statement said confirmed speakers include Dr. John Jinapor, Minister of Energy and Green Transition, Sir Sam Jonah, Executive Chairman of Jonah Capital (Keynote on Leadership for global relevance and good governance),  Mr Ralph Mupita, President and CEO of MTN Group and Prof. PLO Lumumba, Pan-Africanist and Legal Scholar

It said the programme would feature high-level networking opportunities for policymakers, investors, and corporate executives.

The statement said their ambition was to generate actionable insights that would accelerate Africa’s transformation and make it a global powerhouse by 2050.

The US refuses to support the DR Congo’s paramilitary mine guard

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A day after Kinshasa declared the establishment of a mine guard, the United States on Tuesday refused to support paramilitary groups tasked with protecting mines in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The DRC’s General Inspectorate of Mines (IGM) said on Monday that it will establish a “paramilitary special unit intended to secure the entire mineral exploitation chain” within the nation.

As part of “strategic partnerships” with the United States and the United Arab Emirates, the IGM announced that the guard will get $100 million in funding.

However, according to the US embassy in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the US government “is not funding paramilitary groups to guard mines.”

Washington remains “committed to advancing shared economic growth, stability, and prosperity” in Congo under the Strategic Partnership Agreement between the two countries, the embassy said in a statement.

The IGM also clarified its announcement in a Tuesday statement, saying the unit’s funding would come from “different types of stakeholders” and would “not involve direct funding from any single government.”

Chronic insecurity

The DRC produces around 70% of global cobalt output — key for making electric batteries and in defence technology — and holds some of the world’s richest deposits of copper, coltan and lithium.

Chinese mining firms have a dominant position in the country, though there are companies from the United States and elsewhere.

The vast country has long struggled with illicit mineral trafficking and chronic insecurity, particularly in its eastern provinces, where fighting between government forces and Rwanda-backed M23 rebels has killed thousands of people and displaced hundreds of thousands.

The new unit will be deployed gradually, with an initial 2,500 to 3,000 personnel expected to be operational by December following six months of training in military collaboration, the IGM said in a statement.

The paramilitary force is projected to have more than 20,000 personnel across all of Congo’s 22 mining provinces by the end of 2028, with the aim of boosting investor confidence and strengthening state oversight of mineral production.

It will take over security duties currently performed by conventional military forces.

Its mandate includes securing mine sites, escorting mineral shipments to processing facilities and border crossings and protecting foreign investments.

Mason Greenwood’s price was established by Marseille amid Juventus’ interest in a transfer, and Manchester United is expected to receive a financial boost.

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According to reports, Marseille has established their asking price for the former Manchester United attacker, and Juventus is prepared to intensify their long-standing interest in Mason Greenwood as they seek to restructure their offensive options for the upcoming campaign. Greenwood has had yet another successful season with the Ligue 1 powerhouses, but whether or not they make it to the Champions League will determine his future.

In an attempt to take advantage of the growing instability surrounding Marseille’s financial situation, Juventus is getting ready to make a summer move for Greenwood. The 24-year-old has long been admired by the Italian powerhouses, who see this transfer window as the ideal chance to bring him to Turin.

La Gazzetta dello Sport claims that the Bianconeri are prepared to put Marseille’s determination to the test. Greenwood is still an important member of the Orange Velodrome team, but if the two teams can agree on a price, the opportunity to join one of the most prestigious teams in Europe in Serie A would be too alluring to pass up.

The French club’s ability to keep hold of their star asset depends heavily on their final league position. Marseille currently sit sixth in Ligue 1 with 53 points, trailing both Lyon and Lille by four points in the race for Champions League qualification. Failing to secure a top-four finish would leave a significant hole in their budget.

Without the lucrative revenue provided by Europe’s elite competition, Marseille may be forced to cash in on Greenwood to balance the books. The club is said to have placed a minimum price tag of €43 million on the forward, a figure they believe reflects his output of 25 goals and 10 assists across 42 appearances this season.

Juventus are already plotting how to lower the cash outlay required for the deal. The relationship between the two clubs is considered excellent, particularly following the deal that took Timothy Weah to Marseille on loan last summer. To bridge the gap in valuation for Greenwood, Juve may look to include players in exchange. One name mentioned is Edon Zhegrova, who has struggled for form this season but remains a player that the Ligue 1 side have historically admired and pursued.

YAWC Official Embarks on Zambia, Zimbabwe Visit to Deepen Partnerships.

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A senior official of the Young African Women Congress (YAWC) Network has begun a nine-day mission to Zambia and Zimbabwe to deepen partnerships and expand its continental presence.

Nana Freduah Agyeman Osborn, a member of the Global Governing Council and Director for Legal, International Negotiations and Strategic Communications, is leading the delegation on the high-level engagement.

In a statement issued in Accra and copied to the Ghana News Agency, the Congress said the visit forms part of its strategy to strengthen Pan-African collaboration and widen its influence across Africa and the diaspora as it marks 10 years of women’s empowerment work.

It said Nana Osborn is expected to hold meetings with government officials, women’s organisations, development partners and youth leaders in both countries.

“Key discussions will focus on promoting women’s leadership and political participation, strengthening policy advocacy and institutional reform, advancing economic empowerment and entrepreneurship, and enhancing strategic communications and capacity building.”

The YAWC Network said it remained committed to advancing the leadership and empowerment of women of African descent across the continent and globally.

It said that as part of its 10th anniversary activities, it would intensify advocacy on gender equality and push for increased investment in women’s leadership.

Planned commemorative events include a public lecture, a health advocacy campaign, the launch of a legacy project and fundraising initiative, and a global convocation.

Established in 2016, the Young African Women Congress Network is a Pan-African organisation focused on connecting and empowering young women across Africa and the diaspora.

It operates through country-based chapters and has grown into a global movement engaging thousands of members.

Jose Mourinho reacts to tales of Real Madrid’s comeback as the Benfica manager discloses the “best place” he coached in

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In response to the mounting rumours that he will make an incredible comeback to Real Madrid to replace Alvaro Arbeloa, Jose Mourinho has made a frank statement. The renowned Portuguese coach, who is currently in charge of Benfica, also paused to consider his poignant time at Roma, calling the Italian capital the most memorable setting of his remarkable career.

Mourinho has downplayed claims that the 15-time European winners are eager to reunite by concentrating on his present job. He is presently in charge of Benfica, but rumours indicate that Florentino Perez is spearheading the search for his former manager in an effort to bring stability to a team that has had difficulties under Arbeloa. The “Special One” stayed silent when questioned about the connections to Real Madrid and a potential return to La Liga.

Instead of fuelling the fire regarding a second stint in the Spanish capital, the 63-year-old insisted that his focus remains on the job at hand in Lisbon. “My next target is to bring Benfica back to the Champions League,” he stated in an interview with Il Giornale, seemingly cooling talk of an immediate departure, despite reports of a manageable break clause in his contract with the Portuguese giants. The response comes amid warnings from former Los Blancos star Guti, who suggested that Mourinho is no longer in his prime phase and that Perez should look elsewhere for a tactical spark.

Reflecting on his storied career, which includes trophy-laden spells at Chelsea, Inter, and Real Madrid, Mourinho made a surprising admission about his time in the Italian capital. Despite being sacked by Roma in January 2024, he holds the club and its fanbase in the highest regard. “For me, it’s been the best place in my career. I’ve never felt such an incredible environment around a football team. The Olimpico was always full,” Mourinho revealed.

The Portuguese manager guided Roma to Conference League glory in 2022 and the Europa League final the following year, creating a bond with the supporters that he believes is unmatched. He added on their struggles since his exit: “Not even when I won the Champions League did I see scenes like those. My Roma is finished. I don’t want to say anything else. Actually, just one thing. Nobody should blame the Roma fans for not winning. The Roma fans are the ones who support the team, and nobody should touch them.”

Ghana develops national child labour indicators.

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Ghana has introduced a National Compendium of Child Labour Indicators to standardise measurement, reporting and monitoring of child labour across sectors.

The initiative is intended to strengthen evidence‑based policy and interventions nationwide and complements ongoing efforts to operationalise the Ghana Child Labour Monitoring System (GCLMS), which is designed to support the identification, referral and tracking of child labour cases across the country

Launching the compendium, Dr Abdul‑Rashid Pelpuo, Minister of Labour, Jobs and Employment, described the document as a critical policy and operational tool for tackling child labour.

“This document establishes a common reference point for all stakeholders and will guide policymakers in evidence‑based decision‑making, while supporting effective monitoring and evaluation,” he said.

The compendium, developed with the International Cocoa Initiative (ICI) and partners, provides a harmonised framework of indicators, including statistical definitions, key variables and measurement criteria, to ensure consistency in data collection and reporting.

It is expected to serve as a central reference for government institutions, civil society organisations and development partners, while improving coordination and comparability of data at national and international levels.

Dr Pelpuo noted that the compendium aligned with Ghana’s commitments under the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly the target to eliminate child labour.

He urged ministries, departments, agencies and partners to integrate the indicators into their reporting systems.

Mr Mike Arthur, Country Director of ICI Ghana, said the compendium addressed longstanding challenges of inconsistent data.

“This is closing a very important gap because we can now ensure that data used across reports are collected in the same manner,” he said.

Mr Dauda Braimah, Acting Chief Labour Officer, added that the indicators would enable Ghana to better define and track its own progress.

“It means that we can tell our own story and guide how we measure child labour going forward,” he said.

The compendium forms part of broader national and international efforts to eliminate child labour, particularly in high‑risk sectors such as agriculture, through improved data systems and coordinated action.

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