Author: Congo Times

A Day of Celebration Turns to Catastrophe What began as a jubilant occasion for MC Alger’s fans quickly descended into tragedy at the 5-July Stadium in Algiers. The joyous atmosphere soured as a barrier failure triggered a calamitous fall, resulting in the deaths of three attendees and injuring over 80 others. This catastrophic incident has not only cast a shadow over the club’s triumph but has also underscored critical safety deficiencies in one of the nation’s most emblematic sports venues. Immediate Governmental Reaction As news of the calamity emerged, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune voiced his condolences via social media, while…

Une Attente Prolongée Lors du deuxième congrès électif du Rassemblement des Houphouëtistes pour la Démocratie et la Paix (RHDP), qui s’est tenu le 21 juin à Abidjan, la question de la candidature d’Alassane Ouattara à l’élection présidentielle de 2025 a dominé les discussions. Alors que de nombreux membres du parti manifestaient un appui clair à une nouvelle candidature du président en exercice, Ouattara a choisi de ne pas divulguer sa décision. Cette incertitude a entretenu une certaine tension parmi les partisans et observateurs de la scène politique ivoirienne. Un Parti derrière son Leader Le soutien du RHDP pour une éventuelle…

Political Tremors in Abidjan The vibrant atmosphere at the recent congress of the Rassemblement des Houphouëtistes pour la démocratie et la paix (RHDP) in Abidjan might suggest political certainty, yet it cloaks a lingering suspense. The acclamation of President Alassane Ouattara as the candidate for the 2025 presidential election signals a party united but also a population left questioning. As of yet, Ouattara has not resolved whether he will vie for a fourth mandate. The Unwavering Legacy of ‘ADO’ At nearly 84, Alassane Dramane Ouattara—fondly known as ‘ADO’—emanates a formidable appeal, evidenced by the thousands that congregated for the RHDP…

ECOWAS Leadership Transition: A Strategic Move On June 22, 2025, during the 67th ordinary summit held in Abuja, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) announced a significant transition in leadership. Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio has taken over the chairmanship from Nigeria’s Bola Ahmed Tinubu, marking a pivotal moment in the history of the regional organization. This change in leadership comes at a time when West Africa faces numerous geopolitical and economic challenges, compelling the new administration to steer the region towards greater stability and cooperation. Challenges Facing ECOWAS and the New Leadership The transition of leadership…

A Star in the Beninese Media Horizon Raïssa Gbédji’s passing marks the end of an era in Beninese media, but her contributions ensure her legacy endures. Born with a talent for communication, her journey in journalism began at Golfe FM, where her voice became synonymous with integrity and storytelling excellence. Her evolution from a secretary to a respected voice at key stations, notably RFI in Cotonou, underscores a career defined by determination and professional rigor. Gbédji is remembered fondly for her natural authority and leadership, attributes that set a high standard for Beninese journalism. Melody of Journalism and Music Raïssa…

Sudden Shifts in the Ivorian Political Arena As Côte d’Ivoire approaches its presidential election in October 2025, surprising alignments are emerging within the opposition ranks. On June 19, the African People’s Party – Côte d’Ivoire (PPA-CI) led by former president Laurent Gbagbo, and the Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire (PDCI) headed by Tidjane Thiam, proclaimed a strategic alliance. This ‘unified front’ has been formed to contest the exclusion of their leaders from electoral participation and to advocate for an inclusive political dialogue. A Democratic Urgency Motivating the Alliance The unexpected coalition underscores a sense of democratic urgency among the signatories.…

Colonial Division at the Berlin Conference The existence of two separate Congos today can be traced back to the European colonial division of Africa, formalized during the Berlin Conference of 1884-1885. This pivotal event set the stage for France and Belgium to claim territories rich in resources and strategically located around the Congo River basin, thus leading to divergent colonial paths and the eventual creation of two nations named after the river. Contrasting Colonial Administrations Under French control, the northern side of the Congo River was known as French Congo, which later evolved into the Republic of the Congo. French…

A Historical Tapestry Lying on the cusp of Central Africa, the Republic of the Congo, colloquially known as Congo-Brazzaville, is a country enshrouded in historical significance and complexity. Narratives of Bantu-speaking tribes, who established trade routes through the Congo River basin millennia ago, laid the foundation for the nation’s cultural landscape. The region’s past is punctuated by the ascendance of kingdoms such as Vungu and Loango, which emerged as prominent confederations by the 16th century. Colonial Imprint and Political Evolution The late 19th century marked a new era as France extended its influence, turning the region into part of French…

Understanding the Cultural Landscape The Republic of Congo, not to be confused with its neighbor the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is a nation marked by a rich and complex cultural landscape. It holds a distinctive position in Central Africa with a culture deeply embedded in respect for social hierarchy and elders. This societal structure is a cornerstone of Congolese life, where deference to status is held in high regard above frankness and directness. Such cultural attributes are foundational, reflecting the broader ethos of harmony and respect that permeate various aspects of daily life. Family Dynamics and Roles In Congolese…

A Vibrant Celebration of African Creativity The prestigious Sky Awards made their debut from June 19 to June 21, 2025, at the Hilton Hotel in Yaoundé, Cameroon. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises, Social Economy, and Handicrafts (MINPMEESA), this event celebrated the continent’s finest in interior architecture, art, design, and craftsmanship. The awards aimed to bring African talent to the global fore, and the event did not disappoint, with an illustrious array of artists and designers in attendance. Celebrating Excellence and Visionary Talents The closing ceremony on June 21 was a vibrant affair, attended by professionals and…