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Cyclone Hidaya to Intensify, Tanzania Meteorological Authority Cautions

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DAR es SALAAM: The Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) has advised caution because Cyclone Hidaya is predicted to linger until May 6, 2024, at which point it is expected to weaken.

Tanzania’s Eastern coast is being monitored for Cyclone “Hidaya,” according to a TMA statement released on Friday, May 3, 2024. The statement also noted that the cyclone is still getting stronger as it approaches the area.

“By 9:00 am on Friday, it had further strengthened and reached the status of a full-fledged cyclone, approximately 401 kilometers East of the coast of Mtwara,” part of the statement read.

Additionally, according to TMA, there is a good chance that Cyclone “Hidaya” will continue to intensify and move closer to Tanzania’s coast for the next 12 hours while keeping its full cyclone designation based on the trajectory of the weather systems at sea.

The Tanzania weather watchdog had already warned residents of the country’s coastal region of severe gusts and heavy rainfall linked to Cyclone “Hidaya” in the Thursday updates.

“The regions include Mtwara, Lindi, and Coast (including the Mafia Islands), Dar es Salaam, Tanga, Morogoro, Ugunja, and Pemba regions and neighboring areas,” the statement added.

READ: Pres. William Ruto Postpones Reopening of Schools as Kenya Prepares for Cyclone Hidaya

The authorities also recommended that citizens keep an eye on weather forecasts and pay attention to any cautious advice that is issued.

Low pressure is the cause of cyclone “Hidaya,” which is accompanied by high winds and a lot of rain.

President William Ruto Postpones Reopening of Schools as Kenya Prepares for Cyclone Hidaya

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NAIROBI: Kenya’s president William Samoei Ruto has directed the Ministry of Education to postpone the reopening of schools amid heavy rainfall that has killed and left scores homeless. The new directive comes barely three days before when schools were scheduled to reopen on May 6.

President Ruto warned that the rain will extend into next month thus Kenya will face its first cyclone, Hidaya, with extreme repercussions.

“Metrological reports paint a dire picture, the rains will persist for the rest of this month and possibly after. Kenya will face its first cyclone. This cyclone will hit any time, and it’s predicted to cause torrential rain, strong winds, and dangerous waves” Revealed William Ruto.

The head of state made the remarks on Friday at the State House while giving his State of the nation address as mandated by Article 132 of the Constitution of Kenya requires a sitting president to address the nation on the progress of his administration in Parliament every year.

Cyclone Hidaya, if it hits, will be accompanied by very strong winds across coastal areas, thunderstorms and bands of showers which could potentially wreak havoc on property, infrastructure and livelihoods.

According to government data, more than 190,000 people have so far been affected by the floods and at least 210 are known to have died as reported by BBC earlier today. Ruto urged Kenyans in flood-prone areas to promptly relocate to safer grounds with assistance from all security agencies.

“With meteorological reports forecasting increased rainfall, we urge Kenyans in flood-prone areas to promptly relocate to safer grounds. Adequate resources have been allocated to mitigate the effects of the floods on those affected,” said President Ruto.

“I direct all security agencies to evacuate all vulnerable Kenyans” Added President William Ruto. In his address, President Ruto inspired hope by declaring that we shall overcome the challenges posed by the floods calling for unity and compassion in the recovery efforts.” he ended.

Over 90 victims Evacuated After Maasai Mara National Reserve Floods

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NAIROBI: Kenya has evacuated tourists and workers at Maasai Mara National Reserve after the Talek River within the park overflowed its banks and floods,  submerging more than 14 campgrounds as the nation continues to be battered by severe rains.

Over 90 individuals have been successfully evacuated, according to Kenya’s Red Cross. Both the Narok County government and the Mara Elephant Project claim to have sent helicopters to assist with the evacuations.

The Talek River, which flows through the wildlife sanctuary, breached its banks on Wednesday, May 1, 2024 morning following heavy rains, inflicting extensive damage and a tight escape for dozens of visitors and residents working at the hotels, lodges, and tents inside Maasai Mara National Reserve as floods worsened.

According to local media, Tuesday night’s flooding caused visitors and employees to climb trees in order to escape the ruthless waters. The yearly wildebeest migration from Tanzania’s Serengeti makes the Maasai Mara National Reserve, in the southwest of the nation, a well-liked tourist attraction.

Narok County Governor Patrick Ole Ntutu confirmed that with the deployment of two helicopters, all the visitors and workers had been evacuated safely and transferred to nearby hotels and camps where there was no flooding.

“We are implementing plans and mobilizing resources to respond promptly to distress calls and ensure the safety of our residents. We are remaining dedicated to fulfilling our duty to protect and serve the people during these challenging times,” Ntutu stated in a statement issued in Narok town.

Alfred Mutua, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife in the major national parks and reserves, recommended lodging establishments and campgrounds near rivers to set up evacuation plans in case of flooding during a recent briefing.

“Several camps have been affected by flooding, prompting our coordinated efforts to evacuate visitors, and we have been successful so far,” Mutua mentioned.

Since mid-March, over 180 people have lost their lives in Kenya due to massive flooding, landslides, and infrastructure destruction brought on by above-average rainfall.

In addition to directing the military to assist in the search and rescue operations, President William Ruto has asked residents of “fragile areas” (areas vulnerable to flooding and landslides) to relocate to higher ground.

This week is predicted to bring more rain, according to meteorologists, and Kenyans are still in much panic.

American Institutes for Research Opens new Kenya Office to Aid Universities in East Africa

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American Institutes for Research

NAIROBI: The American Institutes for Research (AIR) has opened a new office in Kenya that will conduct research and provide technical assistance to universities and other organizations in the East Africa region.

On April 29, 2024, AIR staff accompanied by local and regional leaders attended the grand opening ceremony in Nairobi, Kenya. Jessica Heppen, AIR President and CEO said that in East Africa, “there is a growing desire to improve education, health, workforce, and economic opportunities as a way to strengthen communities and improve lives.”

“We are doing more than opening an office today. AIR is making a commitment to be partners with the leaders and citizens of the region to increase opportunities and create a better, more equitable world for all,” Heppen added.

In addition to housing 40 AIR employees, the new office will act as a center for the organization’s ongoing operations in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and other neighboring nations. Supporting and overseeing USAID and UNICEF projects in the area as well as investigating connections between socioeconomic variables and climate change in East Africa are among the tasks included in this endeavour.

In order to guarantee the applicability of American Institutes for Research and technical assistance work and to aid in the education of the upcoming generation of social and behavioral scientists, the Kenya office will also serve as the site of collaborations with local institutions and other organizations.

“The challenges in East Africa are unique and complex and, for that reason, we must work with those that are closest to the problems we are trying to address and understand the needs of those who live and work in these communities,” said Christine Kiecha, managing director of AIR’s Kenya office.

The University of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and the University of Nairobi are partners in the AIR Pipeline Partnership Program, which is financed by the AIR Equity Initiative. Its purpose is to educate, train, and mentor students pursuing careers in social and behavioral science.

Additionally, AIR is expanding its research and educational collaborations with Kenyatta University and Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology.

“AIR wants to serve as a catalyst to increase the development and use of timely, relevant evidence and help grow the social and behavioral science fields in East Africa,” said Ashu Handa, an AIR Institute Fellow based in the Kenya office. “We look forward to building on our current partnerships and developing new relationships that will be beneficial in the future.” 

About AIR

The American Institutes for Research (AIR) is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization that was founded in 1946. It carries out behavioral and social scientific research and provides technical support in the fields of health, education, and workforce development both nationally and globally.

The goal of AIR is to produce and apply rigorous evidence that advances a more just and fair world. This objective guides AIR’s work. AIR is based in Arlington, Virginia, and operates offices both domestically and internationally.

TANESCO Switches off Five Power Dams in Tanzania Due to Low Electricity Demand

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TANESCO

DAR es SALAAM: Five hydroelectric power stations have been shut down in Tanzania by TANESCO to curb down on the excess electricity on the national grid. This was revealed by the country’s Prime Minister, Kassim Majaliwa.

Additionally, he said that the country’s major power plant, Mwalimu Nyerere Hydroelectric Station alone has produced enough electricity to support some of the major cities such as the nation’s main economic hub, Dar-es-Salaam.

“We have turned off all these stations because the demand is low and the electricity production is too much, we have no allocation now” an official from the state-run power company, Tanesco, said.

It has also been reported that the heavy torrential rains which have been falling this year have already filled the 2,115 MW Julius Nyerere hydropower dam with water.

These heavy rains have already caused about 58 deaths in Tanzania. They have also ravaged other East African nations such as Kenya. Tanzania has in the past years suffered chronic power outages due to shortages.

It’s the first time that the country has met its power demands and even surpassed it, and the only country in East Africa that has ever produced an excess of electricity than the demand.

Charlene Ruto Named Among 100 Most Influential Young Africans with Nixon Kitimoi

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Charlene Ruto

NAIROBI: It is a great time for Charlene Ruto, who is also Kenya’s First Daughter and Uganda’s Dr. Nixon Kitimoi after the two have been named among the 100 Most Influential Young Africans 2024. This happened at an event last Saturday in Accra, Ghana.

Charlene Ruto is also a Youth Leader, a Member of the Dear Community that signs in KSL, Pan Africanist, farmer and above all, a great inspiration to her fellow young Africans through her philanthropy work and other engagements as a First Daughter.

On the other hand, Dr. Nixon Kitimoi is the Founder and Chief Investment Officer at 1stock, and one of the youngest investors in Uganda with an investment portfolio of more than $6bn from syndicated investment funds and special purpose vehicles.

These two’s appearing on the official list of 100 Most Influential Young Africans is not by surprise, because they deserve it. They are the innovation and inspiration driving forces in their communities they come from. Nixon Kitimoi has won more than 10 awards due to his innovation.

And the most recent one being the Forty Under 40 award he got this month where other Ugandans were also nominated like Judith Heard, Oscar Kampala among others. And he is the one who got the award home safely.

This listing on the 100 Most Influential Young Africans was done by the Pan African Youth Leadership Foundation (PAYLF), an NGO that is led by Rachael Okun Agonor an its main objective is to provide comprehensive leadership training and mentorship programs that equip young Africans with the tools needed to lead.

Cabinet Approves Transitional Justice Policy Despite Concerns

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During a session today, the Council of Ministers approved a transitional justice policy crafted to investigate and litigate the weighing human right violations committed in Ethiopia’s recent history.

The policy aims to address “the overlapping and wide range of victims of human rights violations, conflicts, narratives, and abuses that have occurred in different eras in the country,” according to a statement from the Council.

The draft policy was submitted by the Ministry of Justice following the conclusion of public consultation workshops to validate the draft document. However, experts and opposition party leaders still have reservations on the government’s neutrality and a lack of inclusion. International human rights bodies also called for the inclusion of international elements in the national initiative.

Tanzania Floods Kill More Than 58 in April – Government

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DAR es SALAAM: Heavy rains/floods in Tanzania that started from 1st April to currently 14th April 2024 have so far caused floods that have killed more than 58 people. This is according to the government of Tanzania in a report that was released today.

In a statement by Director of Information Service and Chief Government Spokesperson, Mobhare Matinyi, it is conformed that more rains are expected in the coast region where so far 11 people have been reported dead. These include 8 school children who died due to floods and more havoc is expected to take place in the coming days.

“From 1st April to 14th April 2024 we have recorded more than 58 deaths caused by floods as a result of heavy rains especially in the coastal region. And serious floods effects are expected to happen in the coastal region where 11 people have so far died” Mobhare Matinyi said.

It is further reported that, more than 10,000 households have been affected by these floods in Tanzania and more than 75,000 farms have been badly destroyed by the floods in the coastal and Morogoro areas which is loacted nearly 200kms from the Capital, Dar es Salaam.

Furthermore, scientists and meteorologists have so far warned that the heavy rains will come along with El Nino which emerged in 2023 usually increases temperatures for a year after they happen.

The Pros and Cons of Hiring a Driver on Your Uganda Car Rental Deal

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driver guide Uganda

Self-drive car hire has become a popular option in Uganda, with many visitors opting for the flexibility and adventure of driving themselves around the country. However, car hire services with a driver remain a staple for many travelers, especially when it comes to safaris, business engagements, and high-profile events. These chauffeur-driven services offer a level of comfort, convenience, and professionalism that self-driving simply cannot match. Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of hiring a driver when renting a car in Uganda.

Pros of Hiring a Driver

1. Time-Saving

One of the most significant advantages of hiring a car with a driver in Uganda is time management. Whether you’re heading to a business meeting, a tourist destination, or an event, having a driver ensures you’re never late. Professional chauffeurs are trained to be punctual, always ensuring that you reach your destination on time. Additionally, they drive directly to your destination without unnecessary stops, unlike public transport, which often involves picking up or dropping off other passengers along the way.

2. Executive Experience

When you hire a car with a driver, you’re treated with a level of professionalism that elevates your travel experience. The vehicles are typically well-maintained, clean, and stylish, and you’re often greeted by your driver with a polite and hospitable attitude. For many travelers, there’s a sense of satisfaction in having the car door opened for them, their luggage handled with care, and being driven in comfort. This creates an atmosphere of luxury and respect, which can be particularly appealing when traveling for business or attending important events.

3. Respect for Privacy

A personal chauffeur understands the importance of discretion, especially in business or high-stakes situations. They are trained to respect your privacy and maintain confidentiality, making them an ideal choice for travelers who need to handle sensitive information during their trip. This level of trust and reliability is one of the key reasons why high-end clients prefer using car hire services with a driver. Whether you’re discussing business strategies or dealing with personal matters, you can rely on the chauffeur to respect your privacy at all times.

4. Ease of Travel

Self-driving in Uganda can be stressful, especially when you’re unfamiliar with the routes or the local driving conditions. Navigating long distances, dealing with tricky road conditions, and managing traffic can be particularly challenging if you’re traveling with family, including young children. Hiring a driver removes these concerns entirely. The chauffeur takes care of all the driving, allowing you to relax and focus on your journey. With their extensive knowledge of Uganda’s roads, they can handle any challenges that arise, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

5. Local Knowledge and Support

Chauffeurs in Uganda are more than just drivers; they often serve as local guides. With years of experience navigating the country’s roads, they have in-depth knowledge of the best routes, local attractions, and hidden gems. They can offer valuable insights into Uganda’s culture, history, and tourism destinations. Whether you’re visiting national parks, restaurants, or remote villages, your driver can provide helpful recommendations and tips that can enrich your trip. This local expertise is particularly useful for tourists who may not be familiar with the area.

6. Travel in Style

There’s no denying the impact of a stylish arrival. Whether you’re attending a business meeting or a social event, arriving in a well-maintained, chauffeur-driven vehicle instantly elevates your image. It conveys professionalism, class, and success, making a lasting impression on clients, colleagues, and fellow travelers. For those attending high-profile events, such as weddings or gala dinners, traveling with a driver ensures that you arrive in style, turning heads as you make your entrance.

7. Quick and Convenient Service

Booking a car hire with a driver in Uganda is simple and efficient. Many rental agencies offer easy online booking systems where you can make inquiries, confirm the car and driver availability, and provide details such as the pick-up location and time. Communication is typically fast, whether via email, phone call, or WhatsApp, and you can rest assured that your driver will arrive promptly at the agreed time. Once your trip begins, you can sit back and relax while the chauffeur takes care of the driving, allowing you to enjoy the ride without any worries.

Cons of Hiring a Driver

1. Higher Cost

While hiring a car with a driver in Uganda offers many benefits, it also comes with a higher cost compared to self-driving. The price typically includes not only the rental of the vehicle but also the driver’s wages, fuel, and other associated expenses. For travelers on a tight budget, this can be a significant drawback, as the added cost might exceed what they would pay for a standard rental car.

2. Less Flexibility

When you hire a driver, you may have less control over your schedule and itinerary. Although chauffeurs are typically flexible, you are still dependent on their availability and the agreed-upon travel plan. This can be a disadvantage if you want to change your plans at the last minute or explore a location spontaneously. Self-driving allows you to make impromptu stops or take detours, something you might not feel comfortable doing with a driver on board.

3. Personal Space

While chauffeurs are professional and courteous, having someone else in the vehicle can limit your personal space and privacy. Some travelers may prefer the freedom to drive alone, especially when they want to listen to their own music, engage in personal conversations, or simply enjoy solitude. With a driver in the car, you may feel more self-conscious or unable to fully relax.

4. Possible Communication Barriers

Depending on your chauffeur’s fluency in your preferred language, communication can sometimes be a challenge. While many drivers in Uganda speak English, some might not be as proficient, leading to misunderstandings or difficulty conveying specific needs or requests. This could be frustrating, especially if you have particular preferences regarding your travel experience.

5. Limited Availability During Peak Seasons

During peak tourist seasons, hiring a driver can sometimes be challenging, as demand for chauffeur-driven cars may exceed supply. If you’re visiting Uganda during busy times, you may have to book your car hire well in advance to ensure availability. This can limit your flexibility and may require you to plan your trip more meticulously.

Conclusion

Hiring a car with a driver in Uganda offers a host of advantages, including time savings, comfort, privacy, and local expertise. However, it also comes with certain drawbacks, such as higher costs and reduced flexibility. Ultimately, the decision to hire a driver or opt for a self-drive rental depends on your travel preferences, budget, and the nature of your Uganda tour. For those seeking convenience and a more stress-free experience, a chauffeur-driven car rental can be an excellent choice, allowing you to focus on enjoying the journey while leaving the driving to the professionals.

El Burhan arrives in Tripoli as Libya bids to broker Sudan Peace

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The Chairman of Sudan’s Sovereignty Council, Commander-in-Chief of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), and de facto head of the Sudanese government, Lt Gen Abdelfattah El Burhan, arrived in the Libyan capital Tripoli this morning, on an official visit during which he held discussions with the president of the Libyan Presidential Council, and the prime minister of the Libyan Government of National Unity. In ventures to broker peace between the warring parties, the Libyan government has also extended an invitation to the commander of the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), Lt Gen Mohamed ‘Hemedti’ Dagalo, which he has accepted.

After his arrival in Tripoli, El Burhan, accompanied by Sudan’s Foreign Minister-designate Ali El Sadig, and the director of the General Intelligence Service (GIS), Lt Gen Ahmed Mufaddal, were received by the president of the Libyan Presidential Council, Mohamed Yunus Al Menfi, and the prime minister of the Libyan Government of National Unity, Abdul Hamid Dbeibeh.

During a bilateral meeting today El Buhan and President Al Menfi discussed “strengthening bilateral relations and ways to support the prospects for joint cooperation between the two countries, in a way that serves the interests of the two brotherly peoples”.

A statement by Transitional Sovereignty Council media liaison says that El Burhan briefed the Libyan president on developments in the situation in Sudan, against the backdrop of what he termed “the RSF’s rebellion against the state, which has resulted in the targeting of civilians, the killing of defenceless innocents, and the sabotage of vital institutions, installations, and infrastructure projects”.

El Burhan stressed that the government of Sudan agreed to negotiate in the Jeddah platform in order to end the suffering of the Sudanese people. He pointed out to his Libyan counterpart that an agreement was reached in May 2023, that stipulated that forces withdraw from civilian homes, however, he says “the RSF did not adhere to it”.

During the meeting, El Burhan voiced appreciation “for the positive positions of Libya towards Sudan, calling for and supporting Sudan’s unity, national security and stability, and rejecting negative foreign interference in the two brotherly countries”.

Al Menfi affirmed Libya’s support for Sudan and its support for its unity, security, and territorial integrity, indicating that Sudan is an important country for Libya, and its stability and cohesion cannot be neglected. He added that Libya’s efforts to reach peace in Sudan are a commitment and responsibility towards this brotherly country, stressing that “these efforts will continue until they bear fruit,” given the importance Sudan represents in the region.

The commander of the RSF, Lt Gen Mohamed ‘Hemedti’ Dagalo, confirmed in a post on X (formerly Twitter) that he has received and accepted an invitation to visit Tripoli by Libya’s Prime Minister Dbeibeh.

This confirms reports in Libyan media that the Dbeibeh proposed a peace and ceasefire initiative between the SAF and RSF, following a phone call between Dbeibeh and the RSF on Sunday.

In his post, Hemedti expressed his thanks to Dbeibeh, and promised to meet him “in the near future”. The RSF commander also expressed his thanks for the Libyan initiative and efforts in supporting stability and peace in Sudan.

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