Category: Economy

**Kenya: Uncertainty threatens children’s return to school**

As the start of the school year approaches, Kenya’s education system is facing uncertainty and tension, exacerbated by the closure of nearly 350 boarding schools following a tragic fire that claimed the lives of several students. While the Ministry of Education promises uncompromising security, parents are faced with significant logistical and financial challenges, while wondering about their children’s return to school. This raises critical questions about the balance between school safety and access to education, forcing the government to adopt an innovative and collaborative approach. Drawing on examples from other East African countries, Kenya must integrate security into its educational vision to ensure a safe and learning-friendly future, while honoring every child’s fundamental right to education.

**Sheraton Mall of the Emirates: A Reinvention for the Traveler Experience**

In Dubai, the Sheraton Mall of the Emirates Hotel celebrates its 20th anniversary by revealing a transformation that goes far beyond a simple aesthetic renovation. This hotel aspires to become a true crossroads of cultural exchange, meeting the growing expectations of modern travelers. With rooms designed to encourage social interactions, a unique gastronomic offer that celebrates Dubai’s culinary diversity, and revitalizing wellness spaces, it reinvents the idea of ​​traditional accommodation.

In a world where experience takes precedence over material comfort, the Sheraton positions itself as a place of life, interaction and rejuvenation. By combining luxury, culture and well-being, this establishment does not just welcome guests, it invites them to live a sensory and human adventure. In an era of seeking authenticity, Sheraton Mall of the Emirates stands out as a destination where travellers can truly reconnect with themselves and others.

**Lake Albert: A Lost Economic Potential**

Lake Albert, which separates the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) from Uganda, embodies an untapped economic opportunity, hampered by the lack of modern port infrastructure. While Uganda is investing heavily to improve its ports and boost its trade, the DRC is lagging behind, with neglected infrastructure symbolized by crumbling docks and goods lost in recurring capsizing. According to Pierre-Marie Udar Ulama, the Lake Commissioner, this sidelining could cost millions in economic losses and jobs. A call to action is urgent, not only to local governments, but also to international partners. By rehabilitating this infrastructure, the DRC could transform Lake Albert from a forgotten space to a dynamic hub of trade and regional prosperity. The future of Lake Albert is not just a question of infrastructure, but a vital issue for the economic ambition of a nation.

**Towards Economic Renewal: Côte d’Ivoire Faces the Departure of French Forces**

The handover of the 43rd Marine Infantry Battalion camp in Côte d’Ivoire, announced by President Alassane Ouattara, signals a major transition that raises concerns and hopes among traders in the artisanal village “43e BIMA”. While the French military presence has long provided a stable source of income, the economic future of this community is now uncertain, with a 25% drop in trade last year.

However, this situation could also pave the way for an economic reinvention. By turning to tourism and ecotourism, local entrepreneurs can explore new opportunities to attract a diverse clientele. With the support of international initiatives and a favorable government framework, the community can transform this period of transition into an opportunity for prosperity. While the challenges are many, the resilience and ingenuity of these people could offer a new horizon of hope and sustainable development.

**Voluntary Recruitment for National Service: A Turning Point for Lualaba Youth?**

Faced with an alarming unemployment rate of 60% among young Congolese, the provincial Ministry of the Interior of Lualaba has launched a call for voluntary enlistment in national service, hoping to offer an opportunity for social and professional reintegration. However, while the program promises training adapted to market requirements, questions remain about its ability to guarantee skills that are truly valued on the ground. The experience of other African countries serves as a mirror, highlighting the challenges of rigorous implementation and collective commitment. The inclusion of young people from diverse backgrounds, while beneficial for the exchange of ideas, also poses challenges in terms of homogeneity and motivation. For Lualaba to transform this initiative into a lever for change, the support of local actors and visionary management will be essential. The future of these young people in search of direction depends on the quality and relevance of the training offered, but also on the capacity to create sustainable opportunities.

The article highlights recent gold exports from the Democratic Republic of Congo, which recorded a significant increase in the first quarter of 2024. The figures show a diversity of players between industrial and artisanal production, with key destinations including the United Arab Emirates, Belgium and China. Exports have been on an upward trajectory, peaking in March. This underlines the importance of supporting and supervising the Congolese mining sector to ensure its sustainability.

President Félix Tshisekedi launched the National Road No. 2 development project between Mbuji-Mayi and Kabinda-Mbanga in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This initiative aims to improve regional connectivity and socio-economic development by reducing logistics costs, promoting local trade and opening up the region. The modernization of this road, according to international standards, will also integrate fiber optic conduits, thus promoting internet access in the areas crossed. This initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to promoting sustainable development and the digital transformation of the country.

The city of Mbuji-Mayi has undergone an impressive transformation under President Félix Tshisekedi, with modernized infrastructure and improved services. Roads, hospitals, schools and access to electricity have been greatly improved, providing a better quality of life for residents. These developments reflect the President’s commitment to the progress and well-being of the population, positioning Mbuji-Mayi as a hub of growth and opportunity for the future.

The construction of the Kalambambuji-Kananga road in the Democratic Republic of Congo is generating great local hope, thanks to its potential impact on the economic and social development of Central Kasai. President Tshisekedi demonstrates the government’s commitment to opening up the region, with a goal of making the road passable by June 2025. This strategic route will open up new perspectives for cross-border trade and regional development, symbolizing a major step forward for the region’s connectivity and progress.

Summary: A deadly attack attributed to ADF rebels has plunged the Bapere region of North Kivu into mourning and terror. The bloody incursion claimed the lives of three people and devastated the local community. Authorities are calling for increased military action to protect civilians and restore peace. In the face of this tragedy, solidarity and resilience must be the driving forces to overcome adversity and build a future of peace and prosperity for all.