Author: Congo Times

Emerging Communicators Step into the Spotlight On June 18-19, Brazzaville became a crucible for PR innovation as third-year students from the Science and Techniques of Communication (Stc) program presented their public relations projects. Tasked with creating PR strategies for companies across various sectors, these aspiring communicators aimed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in an ever-evolving field. Diverse Projects Reflect Expansive Interests The students, grouped into 14 teams, tackled projects encompassing sectors from agro-food to technological innovation, environmental protection, automotive, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development. This variety not only highlighted the multifaceted nature of communication but also…

A Respected Figure in Oyo The passing of André Lekonga in Oyo on June 19, 2025, marks the end of an era in the education and diplomatic circles of the region. Known affectionately as Mbono, Lekonga was a retired educator whose influence extended far beyond the classroom. His family, including Colonel François Ndé, a counselor to the Minister of the Interior, and André Ondélé, Director General of Télé-Congo, join the broader community in mourning his loss. An Educator’s Legacy Lekonga’s work as a teacher left an indelible mark on both his students and colleagues. His commitment to education was not…

The Paradox of Africa’s Media Absence In an ironic twist, Africa figures prominently in political discourses concerning migration, climate, and security, yet remains conspicuously absent from international media coverage outside periods of crisis. This continent, home to over a billion individuals across 54 nations, is largely portrayed through the lens of adversity: famines, conflicts, coups, terrorism, pandemics, and mass exoduses. The systematic invisibility of Africa in media narratives compels a critical examination of how news is prioritized, influenced by enduring historical biases and the geopolitical interests that control media access. The prioritization of news in Western journalism is dictated by…

Congo’s Renewed Data Collection Initiative In an effort to procure data that can drive public health policies, the Republic of Congo is set to initiate its third Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) next August. This strategic initiative, facilitated by the National Institute of Statistics (INS), will deploy field agents across the nation’s fifteen departments to amass health data. The survey will encompass a wide array of indicators, from hospital attendance rates to contraceptive practices, and the prevalence of HIV/AIDS along with nutritional data. Targeting Populations for Comprehensive Insights The DHS will focus on gathering extensive information from key demographics: women…

An Ambitious Undertaking In a significant move this August, the Republic of Congo is deploying agents from its National Statistics Institute (INS) across the nation’s fifteen departments. The objective is to collect comprehensive health data reflecting hospital attendance, contraceptive practices, HIV incidence, and nutritional status. Primarily focusing on women aged 15 to 49, children under five, and men aged 15 to 64, this iteration marks the third such demographic and health survey since 2005 and 2011-2012. Strategic Preparations in Place During a pivotal meeting on June 20 in Brazzaville, the EDSC’s Steering Committee assessed progress and finalized preparations. The permanently…

The Soaring Popularity of Online Gambling in Nigeria In recent years, online gambling in Nigeria has witnessed unprecedented growth. Once viewed with skepticism, this activity has become increasingly popular, notably amidst a backdrop of significant economic challenges. Unemployment rates and economic instability have driven many Nigerians to seek alternative sources of income or entertainment. As a result, online gambling platforms have seen a surge in user engagement and participation. The Role of Influencers in Promoting Gambling The burgeoning growth of online gambling in Nigeria has been substantially fueled by the influence of social media personalities and celebrities. These individuals, leveraging…

Italy’s Ambitious African Gambit In an audacious bid to both stem migration from Africa and expand Italian influence, Giorgia Meloni unveiled the ‘Plan Mattei,’ a strategy that has ignited both optimism and skepticism. The plan was announced at a summit co-chaired by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in Rome. Boasting a commitment of over €1.2 billion in investments from both Italy and Europe to the African continent, Meloni’s ambitious project is positioned as a response to the pressing migration crisis. The Legacy of Enrico Mattei: Inspiration and Ambitions Named after Enrico Mattei—an Italian visionary in the oil industry…

Niger’s Bold Step in the Uranium Sector In a stunning development, Niger’s authorities have officially declared their intention to nationalize the uranium joint venture Somair, co-operated by the French nuclear fuel giant Orano. This announcement, delivered via national television, reflects a significant escalation in the ongoing strife between Niger’s military government and the French conglomerate. The friction is rooted in the deteriorating bilateral relations following the nation’s military coup in July 2023. Underlying Grievances Fuel Nationalization Central to Niger’s decision is a list of grievances articulated in a communiqué by the ruling junta. Among these concerns is the anticipated expiration…

A Resurfacing Political Contention In recent weeks, the arrest of Rwandan opposition leader Victoire Ingabire has reignited debate on political freedoms within the country. Ingabire, who has long been the face of resistance against President Paul Kagame’s regime, faces serious charges of inciting public unrest and forming a criminal organization. These allegations, however, have been categorically dismissed by her legal representatives as baseless and politically motivated. Historical Context and Previous Encounters with the Law Ingabire’s history with Rwanda’s judicial system is fraught with controversy. The leader of the Dalfa-Umurinzi party returned to Rwanda in 2010 with presidential ambitions. Nonetheless, she…

Initiating a New Vision for Aviation Burkina Faso has embarked on a transformative journey to reshape its aviation landscape by establishing the Société des Aéroports du Burkina Faso (SABF). Announced on June 18, 2025, this new public enterprise is poised to spearhead the construction, development, management, and modernization of the nation’s airport infrastructure. The endeavor is directly overseen by the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Mobility, reflecting the government’s strategic emphasis on upgrading its aerial network. Streamlining Structures for Efficiency The formation of the SABF heralds significant structural changes within Burkina Faso’s aviation management. The new entity will absorb the…