Germany is set to hold early federal elections on Sunday 23 February, following the collapse of the coalition government formed by the Social Democrats (SPD), Greens and Free Democrats (FDP) in November 2024. A total of 29 parties have qualified to compete in the election, though only nine will be on the ballot nationwide. These include the CDU/CSU, SPD, Greens, …
Read More »Africa mourns Namibia’s founding father and liberation icon
Namibia’s founding president and independence hero, Sam Nujoma, passed away on Saturday, 8 February, at the age of 95. Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba announced Nujoma’s passing, stating, “The foundations of the Republic of Namibia have been shaken… Our venerable leader, Dr. Nujoma, did not only blaze the trail to freedom – but he also inspired us to rise to our …
Read More »African tourism takes centre stage at ITB Berlin 2025
ITB Berlin, the world’s leading travel trade show, will once again bring together the global tourism industry from 4-6 March 2025. The 2025 event, taking place under the motto “The world of travel lives here”, is expected to attract more than 10,000 exhibitors from 190 countries. This year, African countries are expected to make a significant impact, showcasing the continent’s …
Read More »Opinion: Migration policy must not be dictated by fear or exclusion
With less than two weeks to the federal election, former Member of the European Parliament, Dr Pierrette Herzberger-Fofana, warns of the danger of deep polarisation of society as a result of the instrumentalisation of the issue of migration. The first Afro-German politician to represent Germany in the European Parliament makes a case for a debate on migration that respects the …
Read More »Schengen 2025: What you should know
On 1 January 2025, Romania and Bulgaria officially joined the Schengen Area, the European Union’s border-free travel zone. This development means that passport checks at internal borders between these countries and other Schengen states have been eliminated, facilitating smoother travel across Europe. With this expansion, the Schengen Area now consists of 29 member states, reinforcing the principle of free movement …
Read More »Anti-Immigration Legislation: A Historic Turning Point in Germany
Former Member of the European Parliament, Dr Pierrette Herzberger-Fofana, writes about the recent support of the far-right AfD for CDU-backed bills in the federal parliament—a development that has drawn widespread condemnation of the conservative party. The Green politician warns that sacrificing a key consensus in German politics for electoral gains could undermine fundamental democratic principles —— Political alliance of the …
Read More »Nigerian scholar advocates socialist Pan-Africanism for continental transformation
In a compelling inaugural lecture delivered on 5 February 2025 at the University of Lagos, Professor Adelaja Odutola Odukoya, a distinguished scholar in Comparative Political Economy, passionately advocated for the adoption of socialist Pan-Africanism as a transformative pathway for Africa’s resurgence and Nigeria’s development. His lecture, provocatively titled “Armageddon?”, delved into the paradox of Africa’s abundant resources juxtaposed with its …
Read More »Germany, Nigeria to strengten ties on trade and youth skills development
Nigeria and Germany are deepening their economic collaboration through initiatives aimed at enhancing vocational training, fostering skilled migration and stimulating investment opportunities. A recent meeting in Abuja between Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, and a delegation from Germany’s IHK Giessen-Friedberg Chamber of Commerce and Industry underscored these efforts. Dr Oduwole highlighted the alignment between Germany’s …
Read More »Germany partners Ghanaian university to boost German language education
In a significant move to bolster German language education in Ghana, the German Embassy in the country has announced a partnership with the University of Education, Winneba (UEW). The collaboration aims to establish a dedicated Department of German Language at UEW, complete with essential resources and personnel, including a lecturer funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). The initiative …
Read More »New Laws and Regulations in Germany from February 2025
Several legal changes will take effect in Germany starting February 2025, impacting areas such as artificial intelligence, energy, salaries, television costs and elections. Here is an overview of the key changes: 1. Restrictions on Certain AI Applications As from 2February 2025, specific artificial intelligence systems will be prohibited due to concerns over fundamental rights. This includes AI technologies that manipulate …
Read More »Germany marks Black History Month with nationwide events
Germany is observing Black History Month (BHM) this February with a range of events celebrating the culture, history and contributions of people of African descent. Originally an American tradition, the Month has steadily gained recognition in Germany, with various organizations and communities hosting programs that highlight both historical narratives and contemporary issues faced by Black people in the country. In …
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