Author: prtimesafrica

International Men’s Day 2025: Celebrating Men and Boys Across Africa and the World.

Dozens Dead After Bridge Collapse at Cobalt and Copper Mine in DR Congo

Madagascar’s New Leader Randrianirina Outlines Bold Roadmap in First National Address.

ANTANANARIVO, Madagascar – In a historic address broadcast live across the nation on Sunday evening, Colonel Michael Randrianirina, Madagascar’s interim president, unveiled a comprehensive six-point roadmap aimed at “refounding” the island republic amid ongoing political transition. Speaking from the presidential palace in the capital, Randrianirina emphasized national unity, transparency, and long-term stability, framing the initiative as a direct response to the youth-led protests that propelled him to power just weeks ago. The speech, his first formal national address since assuming office on October 17, 2025, drew cautious optimism from civil society leaders while underscoring the challenges of rebuilding trust in a country scarred by decades of instability.

A Turning Point Born from Unrest

Randrianirina’s ascent followed a dramatic military-led takeover on October 14, 2025, which ousted former President Andry Rajoelina amid widespread “Gen Z” demonstrations. Sparked by chronic shortages of electricity and water, the protests—led largely by young Malagasy frustrated with corruption and inequality—escalated into calls for systemic overhaul. At least 22 people were killed in clashes with security forces, according to United Nations reports, before Randrianirina’s elite CAPSAT unit broke ranks, joining protesters and dissolving key institutions except the National Assembly.

Sworn in at the High Constitutional Court on October 17, the 51-year-old colonel—born in the southern Androy region and a veteran of Madagascar’s special forces—promised a break from the past. “Sixty-five years after independence, Madagascar remains one of the world’s poorest nations,” he declared during his inauguration, vowing to address the “pillage of resources and embezzlement of public goods” that fueled public outrage. With an average population age under 20 and poverty affecting three-quarters of its 30 million citizens, the nation faces acute vulnerabilities, including malnutrition impacting 1.3 million people, per World Bank and UN data.

In the intervening month, Randrianirina has moved swiftly to consolidate his administration. On November 1, he appointed a mostly civilian cabinet under Prime Minister Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo, including critics of the Rajoelina era and just four military figures among 29 ministers. The move signals a hybrid military-civilian governance model, with elections slated within two years. International partners, including the U.S. ambassador, attended his swearing-in, though the African Union suspended Madagascar’s membership and the UN condemned the events as a coup—charges Randrianirina rejects, insisting his actions “answered the people’s calls.

“The Six Pillars of Refoundation

Delivered in Malagasy to underscore cultural sovereignty—a deliberate nod to distancing from colonial legacies—Randrianirina’s address launched a “national concertation” process, inviting input from civil society, political parties, youth groups, and traditional leaders. The roadmap, which he described as “the collective will to build a just, stable, and sustainable republic,” centers on six interconnected priorities:

Restoring Trust Between State and Citizens: Randrianirina pledged immediate community dialogues to rebuild faith in institutions eroded by years of graft. “The state must serve, not exploit,” he said, announcing decentralized forums starting in Antananarivo next month.

Strengthening Governance and Transparency: Reforms will include digitalizing public services and mandating open budgets for all ministries. Drawing from the Gen Z demands for accountability, the plan targets universal access to essentials like water, electricity, healthcare, and education within 18 months.

Intensifying the Fight Against Corruption: A new independent anti-corruption commission, staffed by civilians and overseen by the transitional council, will audit past dealings and prosecute embezzlement cases. Randrianirina highlighted this as key to “ending the cycle of injustice.”

Guaranteeing the Republican Role of Armed Forces: The military, paramilitary gendarmerie, and police will form a supervisory committee but commit to non-partisan duties. “Our forces protect the people, not power,” he affirmed, echoing his earlier refusal to repress protesters.

Drafting Fundamental Texts for the New Republic: Constitutional experts will convene to revise the charter, incorporating public submissions. This includes protections for human rights, environmental safeguards for Madagascar’s biodiversity-rich ecosystems, and youth quotas in future governance.

Organizing a Constitutional Referendum and Elections: Culminating in a nationwide vote on the new framework by mid-2026, followed by “free and fair” polls recognized internationally. Randrianirina invited global observers, signaling openness to partnerships with the EU and AU for legitimacy.

The roadmap builds on his inaugural pledges to “restore Madagascar to its former glory” and tackle insecurity, with early actions including humanitarian aid distributions and infrastructure audits.

Reactions: Hope Tempered by Skepticism

The address resonated strongly with the youth activists who ignited the change. “This is our victory—a real chance to end elite capture,” said Andry Nirina, a 22-year-old organizer from the Gen Z movement, in an interview with local outlet Real TV Madagasikara. Protesters’ five core demands—Rajoelina’s resignation, democratic governance, basic needs access, anti-corruption resistance, and national dialogue—appear woven into the plan, fostering guarded enthusiasm.

Civil society groups, however, urged vigilance. Florent Rakotoarisoa, president of the High Constitutional Court, praised the “inclusive vision” but criticized international “coup” labels as overlooking local context. Economists note the stakes: Madagascar’s GDP per capita has halved since 1960, per World Bank figures, with inflation at 0.2% but extreme poverty at 20.8% under recent stabilization efforts.

Internationally, responses are mixed. Russia, whose flags waved during protests, has signaled “serious cooperation” via embassy talks, while the EU calls for “democratic values” through dialogue. Rajoelina, now in exile, condemned the transition as illegitimate, though his influence wanes.

Looking Ahead: Challenges in a Fragile Transition

As Madagascar navigates this pivotal moment, Randrianirina’s roadmap offers a blueprint for renewal—but implementation will test his resolve. With a transitional period capped at two years, the focus shifts to tangible wins: stabilizing utilities, curbing graft, and empowering the youth whose fervor toppled a regime. “We joyfully open a new chapter,” he concluded, echoing his October words. Whether this chapter endures remains the nation’s collective challenge.

This report was compiled from official statements, on-the-ground interviews, and verified sources. For updates, follow developments through the transitional government’s channels.

Redefining Storytelling in Africa: A Changing Media Landscape.

Introduction

Africa stands at a transformative moment in its media evolution. The continent is witnessing a profound shift in how stories are created, shared, consumed, and monetized. From traditional oral narratives to digital-first content, African storytelling is being redefined by technology, youth culture, social impact movements, and a fast-changing media ecosystem. Today, African storytellers are not just chronicling events—they are shaping global perceptions, inspiring innovation, and building new economic pathways.

1. The Evolution of African Storytelling

From Oral Tradition to Digital Expression

For centuries, African storytelling thrived through oral traditions—griots, folktales, music, cultural dances, and communal gatherings. Though powerful, these formats were limited by geography and access.

Today, digital platforms have expanded that tradition, allowing African stories to travel beyond borders and influence global conversations.

Hybrid Narratives

Modern African storytelling merges:

Oral heritage with podcasts and spoken-word poetry

Folklore with animated films and graphic novels

Historical retellings with virtual reality experiences

Music and dance with viral social media storytelling

This hybridization has created a new cultural renaissance.

2. Technology as a Storytelling Catalyst

Rise of Social Media Storytelling

Platforms such as TikTok, Instagram Reels, X (Twitter), and YouTube have democratized storytelling, giving millions a voice. Africans are leveraging short-form videos, memes, and visual threads to build narratives that are fast, engaging, and globally relatable.

Mobile-First Consumption

Africa is a mobile-first continent. With affordable smartphones and growing internet penetration, young creators now reach massive audiences from remote villages to global cities.

Streaming Platforms & Content Boom

Netflix, Amazon Prime, Showmax, and local platforms are investing heavily in African stories. Nollywood, Ghallywood, and South African cinema are rising as global content powerhouses.

Emerging Technologies

AI is enhancing scriptwriting, translation, and content distribution.

VR & AR are changing immersion levels in tourism, education, and gaming narratives.

Blockchain & NFTs offer new ownership and monetization models for creators.

3. Youth Culture as a Driving Force

Africa’s median age is 19.7—one of the youngest in the world. This youth population is shaping new storytelling norms defined by:

Bold creativity

Digital fluency

Disruptive thinking

Social justice consciousness

Cultural fusion (Afrobeats, Amapiano, fashion, sports, pop culture)

Young Africans are not waiting for traditional media—they are building their own channels, communities, and cultural footprints.

4. Changing Media Consumption Patterns

Shift from Traditional to Digital-First Media

Audiences no longer rely on TV and newspapers alone. They prefer:

On-demand content

Podcast storytelling

Short, emotional, shareable narratives

Credible, fast news via digital platforms

Traditional media outlets are forced to innovate or fade out.

Rise of Citizen Journalism

Ordinary people now capture and break major stories on smartphones before newsrooms do. This has diversified voices but also challenged accuracy and credibility.

5. Pan-African Identity and New Narrative Ownership

A key movement in modern African storytelling is the reclaiming of the African narrative.

For decades, stories about Africa were told from outside, often highlighting poverty, war, and political instability.

Today, Africans are telling their own stories—on their terms.

This includes:

Highlighting innovation, creativity, and resilience

Celebrating achievers and change-makers

Documenting local realities with authenticity

Challenging stereotypes in Western media

Exporting African culture and lifestyle globally

The shift from narrative dependency to narrative sovereignty is one of the most powerful transformations happening now.

6. Impact of Storytelling on Business & Governance

Brand Storytelling

Businesses now win audiences through meaningful, human-centered stories, not just advertising.

African brands use storytelling to build trust, purpose, and emotional connection.

Government & Development Communication

Governments and NGOs are turning to digital storytelling to:

Drive policy awareness

Inspire civic engagement

Combat misinformation

Highlight development progress

Promote national identity and cohesion

The Creative Economy

With the rise of film, music, gaming, fashion, and digital content creation, storytelling has become a major economic driver across Africa.

7. Challenges in the Changing Media Landscape

Even with progress, major challenges remain:

Misinformation and fake news

Lack of media literacy

Limited digital infrastructure in rural areas

Financial struggles for creators

Political censorship in some regions

Unequal access to global media platforms

8. The Future of Storytelling in Africa

What Lies Ahead?

The next decade of African storytelling will be shaped by:

Creator-led media companies replacing traditional gatekeepers

AI-assisted content creation

Cross-border media collaborations

Increase in multilingual content

Expansion of the African diaspora audience

More women and youth in leadership roles in media

Global demand for African culture and entertainment

Africa is not just participating in global storytelling—it is becoming a global storytelling powerhouse.

Conclusion

The redefinition of storytelling in Africa is more than a media shift—it is a cultural, economic, and generational transformation. As technology evolves and Africa’s creative energy continues to rise, the continent’s narrative power will only grow stronger.

African storytellers today are shaping identity, challenging perceptions, elevating local realities, and forging new pathways for global influence.

The story of Africa is no longer being told—Africa is telling it, and the world is listening.

The Strategic Rise of Corporate Communications in Africa.

In today’s fast-paced communication landscape, the most powerful brands are not just those with visibility—they are the brands whose reputation carries weight even when no one from the organization is in the room. A truly enduring brand is one that commands respect, credibility, and recognition without constant self-promotion. It speaks for you, represents your values, and influences conversations long before you arrive at the table.

The Power of an Autonomous Reputation

A strong brand reputation functions like a trusted ambassador. It precedes you. It shapes first impressions. It sets expectations. When stakeholders—investors, partners, regulators, customers, or the media—can confidently speak about your brand without your presence or explanation, you have built something resilient.

This is the level of equity every brand should aim for: a reputation rooted so deeply in integrity, consistency, and value that it becomes a reference point for others.

What Makes a Reputation Speak for Itself?

To reach this level, your brand must embody three core pillars:

1. Consistency Across All Touch Points

Your messaging, behavior, customer experience, and leadership tone must align—always. A reputation weakened by inconsistency cannot advocate for you in absentia.

2. Credibility Backed by Action

People trust what they can verify. Delivering on your promises, maintaining transparency, and honoring commitments allow your brand to grow into something others confidently vouch for.

3. Values That Are Lived, Not Declared

Your brand’s values should be evident in how you operate, not simply in what you claim. When your values become visible through decisions and actions, your reputation carries your story on its own.

Why Your Brand Must Speak When You’re Not in the Room

Because crucial decisions—partnerships, funding, collaborations, invitations, opportunities—often happen long before you arrive. Your seat at the table is secured not when you show up, but when others already believe in the strength of your brand.

A reputation built on excellence ensures that whether you’re leading the conversation or far away from it, your brand remains part of the discussion. That is influence. That is presence. That is longevity.

Final Thought

Your brand is not what you tell people it is—it is what they say when you’re not there. Build it with intention. Strengthen it with authenticity. Guard it with excellence. And ensure that its voice is powerful enough to speak confidently in your absence.

Akon Arrested in Georgia on Bench Warrant for Missing Court Date Tied to Suspended Driver’s License.

Chamblee, Ga. – Grammy-nominated singer and producer Akon, whose real name is Aliaune Badara Thiam, was arrested last week in suburban Atlanta on an outstanding bench warrant stemming from his failure to appear in court over a suspended driver’s license, according to multiple law enforcement reports and news outlets. The incident, which unfolded on November 7, 2025, highlights a routine traffic violation that escalated due to unresolved administrative issues, but the artist was released within hours and continued his international tour schedule without missing performances.

The arrest occurred outside a window-tinting business called Tint World in Chamblee, DeKalb County, when local police were alerted by a traffic surveillance camera to the presence of a Tesla Cybertruck linked to an active warrant. Officers approached the vehicle, confirmed Akon’s identity via his driver’s license photo, and took him into custody peacefully. He was booked at DeKalb County Jail on charges related to the warrant before being released later that evening, approximately six hours after his detention

Roots in a September Traffic Stop

The chain of events traces back to September 10, 2025, when Roswell police in Fulton County encountered Akon stranded on a busy street in the same white Tesla Cybertruck, which had a dead battery. While awaiting a tow truck, officers conducted a routine license plate check and discovered the vehicle lacked valid insurance and that Akon’s Georgia driver’s license had been suspended since January 2023 for failing to appear in court on an unrelated prior traffic matter.

Akon was issued a citation for driving on a suspended license at the scene, and his physical license was confiscated, but he was not arrested then. However, when he subsequently missed a required court date to address the citation, a bench warrant was issued by Roswell authorities, leading directly to the November arrest.

During the September stop, police also seized an “illegal vape” from the vehicle’s center console, though no additional charges were filed related to that item.

Akon, who maintains a residence in the gated Alpharetta community near Atlanta, reportedly remained cooperative throughout both interactions. No weapons or other contraband were found during a search of his person or vehicle.

A Clerical Mix-Up, According to Akon’s Team

In a statement to media outlets, a representative for Akon attributed the license suspension—and the ensuing warrant—to a “clerical issue.” They explained that the underlying fine had been paid but was not properly updated in the court system, causing the matter to escalate unnecessarily. “This will be soon rectified in the courts in early December,” the rep added, emphasizing that the resolution was already in progress.

Akon himself has not issued a public comment on the arrest.The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the booking details to TMZ, including Akon’s mugshot, which quickly circulated online and drew attention from fans familiar with his early-2000s hits like “Locked Up,” “Lonely,” and “Smack That.”

Impact on Akon’s Career and Personal Life

Despite the brief detention, Akon wasted no time resuming his professional commitments. He flew out shortly after his release to continue a tour in India, performing in Delhi on November 9—just two days later—to a crowd of thousands.

The 52-year-old Senegalese-American artist, a five-time Grammy nominee with an estimated net worth exceeding $80 million, has shifted much of his focus in recent years to philanthropy, including his Akon Lighting Africa initiative for renewable energy in underserved African communities and new music projects.

On the personal front, Akon has faced scrutiny amid a high-profile divorce filing earlier this year by his wife of 28 years, Tomeka Thiam, who sought joint legal custody of their 17-year-old daughter and spousal support. Court documents revealed Akon is a father of nine children.

Legal experts note that cases like this are common in Georgia, where minor traffic infractions can snowball into warrants due to missed court appearances, often exacerbated by administrative delays. Akon’s upcoming court date in December could resolve the issue with a simple fine adjustment, barring any further complications.

As the story garners viral attention, it serves as a reminder of how everyday oversights can ensnare even global celebrities in the intricacies of local law enforcement. For now, Akon appears unfazed, channeling his energy back into the stage lights of his ongoing tour.

Dangote Signs Historic $1 Billion Deal with Zimbabwe to Build 2,000km Pipeline from Namibia, Boosting Regional Energy Security.

YOUR BRAND AT THE TABLE: REPUTATION THAT SPEAKS IN YOUR ABSENCE.

In today’s fast-paced communication landscape, the most powerful brands are not just those with visibility—they are the brands whose reputation carries weight even when no one from the organization is in the room. A truly enduring brand is one that commands respect, credibility, and recognition without constant self-promotion. It speaks for you, represents your values, and influences conversations long before you arrive at the table.

The Power of an Autonomous Reputation

A strong brand reputation functions like a trusted ambassador. It precedes you. It shapes first impressions. It sets expectations. When stakeholders—investors, partners, regulators, customers, or the media—can confidently speak about your brand without your presence or explanation, you have built something resilient.

This is the level of equity every brand should aim for: a reputation rooted so deeply in integrity, consistency, and value that it becomes a reference point for others.

What Makes a Reputation Speak for Itself?

To reach this level, your brand must embody three core pillars:

1. Consistency Across All Touchpoints

Your messaging, behaviour, customer experience, and leadership tone must align—always. A reputation weakened by inconsistency cannot advocate for you in absentia.

2. Credibility Backed by Action

People trust what they can verify. Delivering on your promises, maintaining transparency, and honouring commitments allow your brand to grow into something others confidently vouch for.

3. Values That Are Lived, Not Declared

Your brand’s values should be evident in how you operate, not simply in what you claim. When your values become visible through decisions and actions, your reputation carries your story on its own.

Why Your Brand Must Speak When You’re Not in the Room

Because crucial decisions—partnerships, funding, collaborations, invitations, opportunities—often happen long before you arrive. Your seat at the table is secured not when you show up, but when others already believe in the strength of your brand.

A reputation built on excellence ensures that whether you’re leading the conversation or far away from it, your brand remains part of the discussion. That is influence. That is presence. That is longevity.

Final Thought

Your brand is not what you tell people it is—it is what they say when you’re not there. Build it with intention. Strengthen it with authenticity. Guard it with excellence. And ensure that its voice is powerful enough to speak confidently in your absence.

In today’s fast-paced communication landscape, the most powerful brands are not just those with visibility—they are the brands whose reputation carries weight even when no one from the organization is in the room. A truly enduring brand is one that commands respect, credibility, and recognition without constant self-promotion. It speaks for you, represents your values, and influences conversations long before you arrive at the table.

The Power of an Autonomous Reputation

A strong brand reputation functions like a trusted ambassador. It precedes you. It shapes first impressions. It sets expectations. When stakeholders—investors, partners, regulators, customers, or the media—can confidently speak about your brand without your presence or explanation, you have built something resilient.

This is the level of equity every brand should aim for: a reputation rooted so deeply in integrity, consistency, and value that it becomes a reference point for others.

What Makes a Reputation Speak for Itself?

To reach this level, your brand must embody three core pillars:

1. Consistency Across All Touchpoints

Your messaging, behaviour, customer experience, and leadership tone must align—always. A reputation weakened by inconsistency cannot advocate for you in absentia.

2. Credibility Backed by Action

People trust what they can verify. Delivering on your promises, maintaining transparency, and honouring commitments allow your brand to grow into something others confidently vouch for.

3. Values That Are Lived, Not Declared

Your brand’s values should be evident in how you operate, not simply in what you claim. When your values become visible through decisions and actions, your reputation carries your story on its own.

Why Your Brand Must Speak When You’re Not in the Room

Because crucial decisions—partnerships, funding, collaborations, invitations, opportunities—often happen long before you arrive. Your seat at the table is secured not when you show up, but when others already believe in the strength of your brand.

A reputation built on excellence ensures that whether you’re leading the conversation or far away from it, your brand remains part of the discussion. That is influence. That is presence. That is longevity.

Final Thought

Your brand is not what you tell people it is—it is what they say when you’re not there. Build it with intention. Strengthen it with authenticity. Guard it with excellence. And ensure that its voice is powerful enough to speak confidently in your absence.

ICSID Dismisses Niger’s Bid to Remove Arbitrator in Orano–Cominak Dispute.

Abuja / Paris — 14 November 2025

The International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) has rejected the request by the Republic of Niger (Niger) to disqualify an arbitrator appointed in the ongoing dispute with the French mining-and-nuclear-materials company Orano (formerly AREVA) over its investments in the uranium-mining venture Compagnie Minière d’Akouta (COMINAK). The decision marks a procedural defeat for Niger and an important development in the high-stakes arbitration (ICSID Case No ARB/25/8) between the two parties.

Background to the dispute

Orano holds a majority interest in COMINAK (and also in its partner mine Société des mines de l’Aïr (SOMAÏR)) in northern Niger. Together with Niger’s state-mining asset company SOPAMIN, they have operated uranium production in the region for decades.

In December 2024 Orano acknowledged that it had lost operational control of SOMAÏR after Nigerien authorities intervened, and shortly afterwards Orano filed arbitration with ICSID in January 2025.

Among the many issues in play: the suppression of Of-take rights, restrictions on sales of uranium produced, changes to mining licences, and the broader political shift in Niger towards asserting state control of extractive activity.

The bid to remove the arbitrator

Niger had formally moved to challenge the impartiality of an arbitrator selected in the Orano-Niger proceedings, arguing conflict of interest or bias in favour of Orano. According to legal commentators, the motion was denied on 27 August 2025.

The ICSID tribunal’s rejection of Niger’s bid to remove the arbitrator thus stands as a signal that the arbitrator selection will remain unchanged and the proceedings will proceed in their current composition.

What the decision means

For Orano – The rejection of Niger’s challenge strengthens Orano’s procedural position in the arbitration. It avoids what would have been a potential delay and uncertainty arising from arbitrator substitution.

For Niger – The decision is a setback. Niger’s strategy to tilt the arbitration dynamics by seeking a different arbitrator has been unsuccessful. The government may now face greater pressure to defend its substantive positions in the tribunal rather than rely on procedural tactics.

For the mining-investment community – This decision underscores how investor-state arbitration under ICSID treats arbitrator-challenge motions: such motions are difficult to sustain unless strong proof of lack of independence is shown. The case reiterates that once an arbitrator is appointed, removing or substituting them can be a high hurdle.

Timing and broader context – The decision comes at a moment when Niger has been asserting more national control over its uranium resources, including moves to restrict exports and to re-negotiate or cancel mining licences. Orano’s filings and ICSID’s decisions are occurring amid this shifting political landscape.

Next steps & implications

With the tribunal’s composition confirmed, the arbitration between Orano and Niger will proceed to the merits phase. Key issues likely to be addressed include:

Whether Niger breached investment protections (under treaty or agreement) by interfering with Orano’s rights at SOMAÏR / COMINAK;

Whether Orano is entitled to compensation for loss of operational control, halted exports or withheld uranium production;

The quantum of any damages or relief to which Orano may be entitled;

Niger’s counters—such as arguments of sovereign regulatory power, changes of government policy, or compliance with local law.

For Niger the immediate implication is that its leverage via procedural tactics is diminished and it must engage substantively. For Orano, the confirmation of the arbitrator means fewer variables to navigate and greater clarity in the path ahead.

Broader significance

This case sits at the nexus of extractive-industry investment, geopolitical change in West Africa and investor-state arbitrations. Niger, which produces one of the world’s larger proportions of uranium, has in recent years reasserted state-control over mining activities and re-examined foreign-investor partnerships. The Orano arbitration is a litmus test for how such disputes will play out under ICSID in a context of resource nationalism.

From the global finance/investment perspective, it sends a message that while states remain free to revisit or reform mining frameworks, doing so may trigger significant liability and that procedural defences such as arbitrator challenges may rarely succeed.

Conclusion

The ICSID tribunal’s dismissal of Niger’s bid to remove the arbitrator in the Orano-Niger arbitration is both procedurally and symbolically important. It clears a path for the substantive arbitration to move ahead in its current format, placing the focus squarely on the underlying merits of the dispute. For Niger this marks the end of a procedural gambit; for Orano it represents a partial procedural victory; and for the wider mining-investment world it re-emphasises the stability of ICSID arbitration processes even in politically charged resource-disputes.