Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, 30 April 2026 -/African Media Agency(AMA)/ – Yango Group has announced the 2026 cohort of its Yango Fellowship programme, selecting 24 participants from more than 600 applicants across six African countries. Over 12 weeks, fellows will develop science and technology based projects using technical skills and present them at a final Demo Day in Abidjan.
The selected fellows come from Côte d’Ivoire, Zambia, Ethiopia, Senegal, Mozambique and Ghana, expanding the programme’s reach from two countries last year to six in 2026.
This year’s program focuses on the applied use of artificial intelligence. Participants will build solutions such as tools for health literacy, energy monitoring systems, traffic optimisation models and personalised learning in local languages.
The fellowship is structured in three stages: problem definition and market analysis, product development, and final presentation. It concludes with a Demo Day, where teams present their projects to industry experts and partners and may receive seed funding to support MVP development.
“The Yango Fellowship is part of our long-term investment in local technology ecosystems,” said Adeniyi Adebayo, Chief Business Officer at Yango Group. “By supporting early-stage talent and enabling cross-market collaboration, we aim to contribute to the development of scalable solutions that address real needs across African markets, while helping founders build and grow products that can operate beyond a single country.”
According to the World Bank, Africa faces a shortage of more than 2.5 million STEM professionals. The programme aims to provide hands-on experience and strengthen pathways into technology careers through mentorship and project-based learning.
In previous cohorts, participants developed solutions across health, education and engineering. Some graduates secured internships across partner organisations, while others received funding for community initiatives. Alumni have gone on to launch startups, digital products and non-governmental projects, continuing their work beyond the fellowship.
DOHA, Qatar, 18 February 2026-/African Media Agency(AMA)/- Thales, world leader in high technologies for Defence, Aerospace and Cybersecurity & Digital, plans to recruit more than 9,000 employees worldwide in 2026.
These hiring prospects follow the recruitment of 8,800 employees in 2025, exceeding the initially announced target of 8,000 new talent. Over the past 5 years, Thales has recruited at least 8,000 people per year to support the growth dynamics of its three business sectors.
In 2025, Thales received 1.4 million applications worldwide, exceeding its record of one million CVs received in 2024. The Universum ranking positioned Thales in first place amongst the most attractive employers for engineering school students in France (and second place in 2024).
Strengthening the diversity of teams and management committees remains a priority for the Group. In 2025, women accounted for 32% of all recruitments. 69% of the Group’s management committees are composed of at least 4 women and Thales aims to reach 75% in 2026.
In 2026, Thales plans to recruit 150 people in the Middle East and Africa with 60 in the United Arab Emirates and 30 in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
In France, Thales will recruit 3,300 people, including 1,630 in the Ile-de-France, 290 in Brittany, 280 in Nouvelle Aquitaine, 270 in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, 250 in Occitanie, 220 in Centre-Val de Loire, 180 in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes and 130 in Pays de la Loire.
In addition to the 9,000 external recruitments, and thanks to the variety of Thales’ three business sectors, roles and geographies, 3,500 employees will benefit from internal mobility. Additionally, the Group’s “Learning Company” approach, with more than 35 internal academies, will enable employees to develop their skills, thereby maintaining Thales’ expertise at the highest level worldwide.
Thales is committed to advancing the integration of people with disabilities, with an employment rate of over 7% in France in 2025.
Around 40% of new arrivals will be assigned to engineering (software and systems engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and data) and 25% to industry (technician, operator and engineer positions).
Thales reinforces commitment to inspire and support young talent in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)
Thales is dedicated to fostering the careers of young people and places strong emphasis on welcoming apprentices and interns, particularly in France, where it will support 1,700 trainees and 1,600 apprentices from Bac+2 to Bac+5, as well as 1,000 third-year and 500 second-year students in 2026. For these young people, these opportunities serve as a stepping stone to future employment. In 2025, apprentices and interns accounted for 15% of Thales’ recruitment in France.
Through its “Vocation Makers” programme, Thales is actively engaging with young people ages 6 to 18 to spark their interest in science and technology. This is achieved through site visits and educational presentations in schools. In 2025, the Group met with 250,000 students worldwide, ranging from primary to high school levels.
In parallel, Thales has launched the STEM for All’s programme, a scholarship and mentorship initiative in partnership with the French Academy of Technologies. The programme is designed to support and inspire young students from disadvantaged backgrounds who aspire to pursue careers in STEM. In its inaugural year, 40 awards were given in France and Belgium, each including a €5,000 grant and one-year of mentorship from a Thales employee. In 2026, STEM for All will be expanded in 2026 to countries including the Czech Republic, Poland, Greece, Romania, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Brazil and South Korea.
“We take great pride in seeing Thales’ appeal grow stronger year after year. The talented individuals who join us are driven by a desire to contribute to the development of sovereign, innovative, and sustainable solutions that the world needs more than ever. Together, we shaping the future by inspiring an increasing number of young people, especially young women, to pursue careers in science and technology.” Patrice Caine, CEO of Thales
About Thales Thales (Euronext Paris: HO) is a global leader in advanced technologies in advanced for the Defence, Aerospace and Cyber & Digital sectors. Its portfolio of innovative products and services addresses several major challenges: sovereignty, security, sustainability and inclusion. The Group invests more than €4 billion per year in Research & Development in key areas, particularly for critical environments, such as Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum and cloud technologies. Thales has more than 83,000 employees in 68 countries. In 2024, the Group generated sales of €20.6 billion.
After Kentucky State University student De’Jon Fox Jr.was fatally shot by his classmate’s father, the victim’s parents are now facing criminal charges after they allegedly intimidated their son’s shooter.
De’Jon Fox, Sr., and Chardnae Cleveland were both charged with intimidation, according to Indiana online court records. WTHR reported that the duo are the parents of De’Jon Jr., who was killed at the age of 19 on December 9 on the Kentucky State University campus.
The intimidation charges stem from alleged threats that the two made against Jacob Bard, who was initially charged with the murder of their son, according to court records viewed by WTHR, WDRB and LEX18.
Bard was on the school’s campus to help his sons, who were students at the university, move out after they experienced issues with some of their classmates. Bard was arrested after authorities said he fatally shot De’Jon Jr. and wounded another student while at the college’s residence hall.
After the shooting took place, De’Jon Sr. allegedly wrote in a comment on Facebook, “YOU WILL FEEL THE SAME HURT I FEEL.” The comment was seemingly in reference to Bard.
Meanwhile, Cleveland has also been accused of writing concerning things about Bard. “I want his son dead just like mine,” one of her alleged posts read, according to the affidavit.
Both De’Jon Sr. and Cleveland were arrested and have since been released from jail on bond. It is not currently clear if either person has entered a plea or if they have obtained legal representation.
The Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office did not immediately respond to Us Weekly’s request for comment.
Two weeks after the incident took place, a grand jury ultimately declined to indict Bard during a hearing on December 23. The decision came after his attorney, Scott Danks, argued that his client had acted in self-defense, according to the Associated Press. The outlet also reported that Bard’s attorney claimed his client only fired his gun after 20 to 30 people had gathered to attack his family.
The attorney claimed that Bard was at the campus to help his two sons move out of their dorms after they were withdrawn from campus following “multiple armed, violent” incidents against them, per the outlet.
“Jacob’s actions were absolutely justified under the law and were the only measure that prevented his son’s death or serious injury,” Bard’s attorney argued during the hearing.
Following the jury’s decision, Bard was released from prison and the charges against him were dropped.
Kentucky State University issued a statement to the campus community following the ruling, saying that the grand jury’s decision “does not lessen the pain our community continues to feel, nor does it change our priorities.
“Our commitment remains centered on supporting our students and ensuring Kentucky State University is a safe place to learn, live, and work,” the statement added.
The shooting involving Bard was the second to take place near the residence hall in four months. On August 17, someone fired multiple shots from a passing vehicle that struck two people who weren’t students at the university, according to the Associated Press.
DUBAI, UAE, 22 December 2025-/African Media Agency (AMA)/-Yango Group today published its inaugural Impact Report, a comprehensive overview of the company’s social, economic, and environmental contributions across more than 30 countries. The report introduces a long-term framework for how Yango measures and communicates its value as a global technology company rooted in emerging markets.
The publication reflects Yango’s evolution from a ride-hailing service launched in 2018 into a multi-service digital ecosystem used daily by millions of people. The report outlines how Yango’s technology enables local entrepreneurship, expands earning opportunities for partner drivers and couriers, and supports the development of the skilled workforce needed for future digital cities.
Daniil Shuleyko, CEO of Yango Group, described the report as a significant milestone for the company. “As we continue expanding globally, we are committed to scaling not only our technology, but also our positive impact on communities, local economies, and future generations. Our goal is to help build the digital cities and digital opportunities of tomorrow — together with the countries we serve,” he said.
Empowering local partners: $4B Earned last year
According to the report, partner drivers and couriers working with Yango services earned more than USD 4 billion in 2024. Yango’s partner network now includes 6,000 businesses, 2.1 million registered partner drivers, and 600,000 partner couriers. In the delivery segment, 40% of users are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that rely on Yango’s infrastructure to reach customers and scale their operations. These dynamics position Yango as an important contributor to economic activity and entrepreneurship across Africa and other emerging markets.
Strengthening local economies through technology
The report also details how Yango’s technology supports urban development and digital commerce. In Côte d’Ivoire, the company is piloting electric mobility initiatives that help reduce emissions and modernize transport infrastructure. Across markets, services such as Yango Buy & Sell enable small merchants to increase visibility and customer trust, reinforcing their participation in digital commerce. Meanwhile, Yango Food Delivery continues to broaden access to local restaurants and everyday essentials, stimulating consumer activity while creating flexible earning opportunities for couriers.
Investing in STEM: preparing talent for the cities of tomorrow
A major focus of the report is Yango’s investment in STEM education and digital skills training, implemented through 4 flagship initiatives that equip young people with the capabilities needed in fast-growing digital economies. The first of these initiatives is the Yango Fellowship, launched in Zambia to support outstanding STEM students with full financial assistance, mentorship, and practical workshops. The Fellowship expanded to Côte d’Ivoire in early 2025, opening new pathways for young innovators. Alongside the Fellowship, Yango has strengthened hands-on learning through mobility and smart-city hackathons, which brought together more than 800 participants across 6 African countries. These events helped learners build applied skills in data science, machine learning, and urban innovation. To broaden access to foundational digital knowledge, Yango also offered free SQL data analysis courses, completed by more than 2,000 learners in Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Zambia. These courses provided essential data literacy for careers in technology-driven sectors. In Cameroon, Yango supported the Technovation Challenge, enabling 100 girls to develop technology and entrepreneurship projects under the guidance of local mentors. The initiative reinforces Yango’s commitment to expanding opportunities for young women in STEM. Together, these programs illustrate Yango’s long-term vision to help prepare young people across Africa to participate in and shape the digital cities of tomorrow.
Community investment and cultural inclusion
Beyond technology and education, the report highlights Yango Group’s community initiatives across Africa, including digital inclusion programs for visually impaired students in Angola, support for youth football academies in Côte d’Ivoire and Zambia, and public art projects in the Democratic Republic of Congo. These efforts reflect Yango’s belief that technological progress should advance alongside social inclusion and cultural preservation.
Enjoy Cape Town without spending a fortune. The Mother City offers plenty of fun activities that cost under R50. Here are 50 of our favourite things to do in Cape Town for R50 or less:
Nature And Adventure
1. Walking Tours Of The City
Learn more about the city, its history, and other interesting facts during a Free Walking Tour. You can opt for a historic city tour, an Apartheid to Freedom tour, or a Bo-Kaap tour. As you hear more about the history, take some time to soak in the city’s glorious views.
This family-friendly space is perfect for picnics, walks or runs, or if you want some R&R after a long day. With a host of facilities like a biodiversity showcase garden, an outdoor labyrinth or maze, an open field, an amphitheatre, an outdoor gym and a play park for the kids, this is a park worth exploring.
You cannot visit Cape Town and not try some of our hiking routes in and around the city. Some popular hikes to explore include Lion’s Head, The Pipe Track and Woodstock Cave, which are ideal for beginners.
The more adventurous can explore Platteklip Gorge, which takes you to the top of Table Mountain, or Newlands Forest, hailed as one of the most beautiful hikes in the Mother City. Don’t forget to follow the hiking rules to keep yourself safe.
Price: Free
4. Trail Running
Trail running is equally popular in the city, with each route showcasing a unique experience. The Devil’s Peak 5,3 km route, for example, starts at the top of the Devil’s Peak Estate and goes from the gravel paths to Rhodes Memorial. We also recommend Constantia Nek.
Price: Free, but some charge a fee, depending on where you go.
5. V&A Waterfront Marine Wildlife Walk
Take a scenic stroll around the V&A Waterfront and meet some of its wildlife residents. The Marine Wildlife Walk includes 8 lookout points across the neighbourhood, where you can spot animals such as otters, sunfish, seals, birds, and jellyfish.
With the spectacular backdrop of the Cape Fold Mountain range and breathtaking views, Cape Town is home to some of the most scenic beaches in the world. There are a lot of beaches to choose from since the Indian and Atlantic Oceans border our coastal city.
Here are some of the best beaches you can visit in our beautiful city.
Price: Free
7. Swim in a Tidal Pool
Tidal pools are rocky pools built along our coastline that provide a safe, family-friendly place to swim and play. These man-made pools along Cape Town’s coast are also the perfect environments for plants and creatures like octopi, sea slugs, anemones, sea hares, cuttlefish, or iridescent seaweed.
Price: Free
8. Visit The Penguins at Boulders Beach
Spend a day with the famous colony of African Penguins at Boulders Beach, voted among the world’s most unique experiences. Find a spot in the sand as you watch the penguins roam in their natural habitat. Or you can take a dip in the False Bay Ocean.
The V&A Waterfront’s rich and varied history dates back to 1654, with over 22 landmarks. Grab a map at the Information Centre and enjoy a self-guided historic walk.
At Cape Town, the outdoor experiences are endless, with many of them free to discover. You can take in our incredible sunsets on Signal Hill, feed the squirrels in the Company’s Garden, join in a game of beach volleyball on Clifton and Camps Bay beaches, take a walk along the Sea Point Promenade, or get mindful with a sunset yoga session on the beach…the options are endless.
Price: Free
11. Ratanga Park
Once known as Ratanga Junction, this park is ideal for those who want to walk, jog or relax in a peaceful setting. Not as crowded as other parks, this Century City attraction also boasts grand views of the canals, Table Mountain, and surrounding areas.
Price: Free
12. Get Active at Battery Park
This 1.2-hectare park forms part of the V&A Waterfront’s Canal District, lined with shops, art, and adventure. Key attractions include the skate and scooter park, a piazza, a basketball/mini soccer multi-court, and the canal. Each area of the park has public walking paths and benches.
Enjoy a scenic walk to Just Nuisance’s grave in Simon’s Town. The famous dog is believed to be the only dog officially enlisted in the Royal Navy. The steps begin on Barnard Street and lead up to the Navy Signals area where the grave is. Please note the climb can be challenging. You’ll also find a bronze statue of the dog on Jubilee Square.
The award-winning Durbanville Rose Garden allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in nature as they stroll through the gardens. People enjoy visiting during summer and spring for its spectacular bloom, with many capturing photos for special occasions. There are short walking trails and scenic spots to sit back and enjoy the views.
The beautiful Polkadraai Strawberry Farm is in Stellenbosch. Besides strawberry picking, which takes place between September and January, children can also enjoy face painting, pony rides, mini golf, and other fun activities for under R50.
Prices:
Tractor Ride: R25 per person Pedal Karts: R25 per person Pony Rides: R25 per child Face Painting: R25 per child Arts and Crafts: R40 per craft Strawberry Picking: From R60 per person
One of the oldest wine-producing farms in South Africa, Groot Constantia boasts fine examples of Dutch architecture and has been producing wine on the estate since 1685. You can amble around the leafy grounds or take the free VoiceMap audio tours to explore the farm and learn about its rich history. Choose from three exciting audio tours, which explore different aspects of Groot Constantia.
Kalk Bay is a firm favourite destination for all types of travellers. Known for its array of eateries lining the main road, bustling colourful harbour and quirky little shops, this little seaside suburb is great for families and solo travellers.
Price: Free
18. Watch the Wildlife at Rondevlei Nature Reserve
A hidden gem in the suburb of Grassy Park, Rondevlei is a 20-minute drive from the city centre. The nature reserve is home to about 230 bird species, a variety of small mammals and reptiles, and is the only nature reserve in Cape Town with a hippopotamus population.
Discover a new world at Intaka Island, an award-winning 16-hectare wetlands and bird sanctuary in Century City, the perfect place for the entire family. Home to 212 species of indigenous fynbos plants and 120 bird species, Intaka is at the forefront of nature conservation and urban development co-existing in harmony.
Muizenberg Catwalk is an easy 3 km flat walk, but the journey is an adventure. Along the route, you can go whale and dolphin watching, swim in the numerous rock pools, watch birds, or simply enjoy the view. The walk begins at Surfer’s Corner Beach in Muizenberg and ends at Danger Beach in St James.
Warning: You will get wet during high tide.
Price: Free
Play
21. The Magic Company at GrandWest Casino and Entertainment World
The Magic Company at GrandWest has all the fun needed for kids and teens or adults looking to free their inner child to enjoy. You can race a superbike, shoot some hoops, hit a strike in ten-pin bowling, immerse yourself in a virtual reality experience in the X Rider, try out the Lazer Zone, or compete in a friendly game of ice hockey.
Situated in Mouille Point, mini golf is probably the best value for money for any outdoor activity anywhere in Cape Town. Families with small kids, couples on dates, and groups of friends all congregate here to test their putting skills.
The Attic Exhibition, at the City Hall, tells the story of the development of Cape Town, through the art and artefacts that have been bought or donated over many years. This makes a fun activity for the entire family. The exhibition is open Monday to Friday from 9 am-3 pm.
Did you know that almost half of the world’s gemstones can be found in South Africa And you could scratch for these gems right here in Cape Town! The Scratch Patch, located both at V&A Waterfront and in Simon’s Town, is a fun way to dig for your beautiful gems. The gem exhibitions and shops are worth a visit afterward.
Enjoy putt putt in a cave-like setting. It’s fun for the whole family and is next door to the Scratch Patch. This indoor activity can be enjoyed in all types of weather.
Stop and smell the roses, then pick ’em. The Chart Farm in Wynberg boasts a wide variety of roses, well-loved for their incredible fragrance. Choose and pick your own bunch of heavenly-scented blooms from the rose garden or select some freshly picked ones instead.
Price:R10 per stem if you pick your own and R12 per stem for picked roses Website:www.chartfarm.co.za/roses
27. Bloemendal Trail Park
Young and old can get their bike on at Bloemendal Trail Park, located in the Durbanville Wine Valley, between the slopes of the Tygerberg Hill and Kanonberg terrain. The rugged trails are perfect for avid bike riders and running enthusiasts. The best part? The routes cater to everyone from beginner to advanced levels.
There is a café on the premises for those who want to grab a bite to eat.
The Warrior Toy Museum in Simon’s Town is lined with dinky toys, dolls, collections of model cars, boats, trains, aeroplanes, and other miscellaneous vintage toys. Check out memorabilia from the 70s and 80s.
Iziko Museums in Cape Town offer insight into South Africa’s natural and cultural history. The exhibits range from 700-million-year-old fossils to insects, fish, dinosaurs and wildlife menageries and everything space-related at the Planetarium. There are also stone tools dating back 120 000 years ago, traditional clothes from the last century and authentic beadwork.
Locally known as “The Castle” this bastion fort is considered the best-preserved example of a 17th-century architectural structure in the world. A bell tower, situated over the main entrance, was built in 1684. The original bell, also known as the oldest in South Africa, was cast in Amsterdam in 1697 and weighs just over 300 kilograms.
The Castle also acted as the local headquarters for the South African Army in the Western Cape, and today houses the Castle Military Museum and ceremonial facilities for the traditional Cape Regiments.
Many of the Cape Town markets offer live entertainment. Mojo Market in Sea Point, Time Out Market Cape Town, and Bay Harbour Market in Hout Bay showcase local artists and a place where people can shop and indulge in local cuisine.
The Guga Sthebe Arts & Culture Centre in the Langa township is a public space dedicated to the arts. The centre has a gathering space, an amphitheatre, an arts and crafts shop and a multipurpose theatre.
If you want to learn salsa and get your hips swinging on the dance floor, head to Mojo Market for their free beginner Salsa classes every Sunday at 6:30 pm. Everyone is welcome, whether you are single, a couple, or in a group. Be sure to stay afterward for the Salsa Party featuring a hot line-up of DJs, unique bars and food stalls.
On the first Thursday of every month, arts and culture in Cape Town come alive, with dozens of art galleries and cultural events showcasing the wealth of local talent in the city. To ensure your First Thursday caters to your own specific preferences, organisers provide a map and highlights of what is on show.
Take a drive to Woodstock and marvel at the various murals on buildings, walls and even fences. Most of the artwork is either created via proposal or commission and spreads the message of community.
Price: Free
36. Visit the Taunina Studio
Head to the Taunina studio in Woodstock for some teddy bear art. At Taunina, you’ll find iconic hand-embroidered one-of-a-kind teddy bears, each with its unique design. The artists behind the teddy bears are all women from disadvantaged communities who are provided full-time employment by Taunina.
37. Entertainment at the Amphitheatre and Live Marimba Bands at V&A Waterfront
V&A Waterfront’s open-air Amphitheatre offers guests exciting live entertainment all year round. Head over to V&A Waterfront’s events page for the latest updates. There are also marimba bands playing in the area. Follow the sounds and you’ll easily spot them.
The Old Biscuit Mill has it all, from goods markets, eateries, and fresh produce. From baked goods and speciality coffee to artisanal and gourmet foods at the Neighbourgoods Market, a weekend market, there is something for everyone.
Voted as one of the best ice cream spots in Cape Town, Unframed Ice Cream produces some of the finest artisanal ice creams around. They sell dairy, vegan and sorbet ice creams. Try some of their unique flavours like vegan spicy mango, Coco Pops, chocolate tahini, and pineapple, red pepper, lime sorbet.
Stellski in Woodstock and Bree Street is the perfect spot to get your authentic coffee fix. Their coffee beans are ethically sourced in Africa and are optimally roasted to ensure the aroma, body, acidity and flavours of the coffee.
The market takes place every Thursday and Friday night from 4pm to 10pm in Muizenberg. Here, you can enjoy mouth-watering meals, baked goods, handpicked South African wines, craft beer, and a kid’s area.
Named one of Cape Town’s coolest baristas, Moses Lebofa is taking his coffee business, Coffee by Moses, to a whole new level at Makers Landing. Expect a good cup of authentic African coffee with tastes ranging from liquorice to citrusy. Moses’ coffee is sourced from all over Africa so expect different notes with each cup.
Aegir Project Brewery offers an impressive selection of craft beers. Each beer pairs perfectly with their generous menu, which features many options . There’s also a kiddies’ play area to keep the little ones entertained.
If you like good coffee served in a gritty and industrialised environment, then try Truth Coffee. Walking into Truth Coffee feels like you’re walking into a Victorian futuristic fantasy. Think steampunk lovers will be in awe of the well-thought décor. More important than the interior is the coffee: strong, hot and full of flavour.
Situated on Belgravia Road in Athlone, Wembley Roadhouse is known for its legendary Wembley Whopper and hotdogs. This old-school roadhouse is the perfect spot to satisfy those late-night cravings.
Looking for that perfect bolla, koesister or snowball? Or perhaps you’d prefer a cupcake with an indulgent filling? Little Cupcake Bakery has it all, from savouries, doughnuts and bread to assorted cupcakes, tarts, cookies and cheesecakes.
Crust Café in Gardens is a haven for baked goods enthusiasts, offering some of the most delectable treats in the city. Their homemade croissants and muffins are perfect for a satisfying breakfast.
Enjoy mouth-watering Indian street food with Kapoochka’s wide range of traditional eats. Their crispy fired samoosas are to die for and will satisfy any craving. Their traditional poochkas are one of their signature dishes packed with layers of flavour. You’ll find them at Maker’s Landing at V&A Waterfront and Time Market Cape Town.
Located between the bustling streets of Loop and Bree, Honest Chocolate is a quaint corner artisanal chocolate company that serves some of the city’s best hot chocolate.
Of course, a visit isn’t complete without trying their range of chocolates, some inspired by Cape Town and South Africa’s unique food scene. Dairy-free options are also available. Honest Chocolate also serves a selection of chocolate truffles, tarts and cakes.
ABIDJAN, Côte d’Ivoire, 17 December 2025-/African Media Agency (AMA)/-Yango Group, a global tech company, has announced the next chapter of its Yango Fellowship; a program designed to unlock the potential of STEM talent across Africa. By providing mentorship, resources, and networks, the Fellowship helps participants turn ideas into solutions that benefit their communities. After successfully launching in Zambia and Ivory Coast, Yango is bringing the program to four more countries – Mozambique, Ethiopia, Ghana, and Senegal.
The expanded Yango Fellowship will provide financial support, expert guidance, and access to a cross-country community of Fellows working on impactful solutions for their communities. As the last years students of the programme landed prestigious internships that will help them achieve significant results in their future careers, in 2026 Yango is moving beyond country levels and builds to create a network of STEM professionals that will function after the conclusion of the year’s programme, defying borders and uniting aspiring young people from different African regions.
Across Africa, the demand for skilled scientists, engineers, and technologists far exceeds the number of graduates entering these fields. The World Bank estimates a shortage of more than 2.5 million STEM professionals needed to support sustainable economic growth across sub-saharan Africa. At the same time, Africa’s rapidly growing youth population faces a persistent skills gap: only 10–15% of young people have access to quality digital or technical training, and fewer than 5% gain experience in fields such as programming, data analysis, or cybersecurity.
With 10–12 million young people entering the labor market each year and only about 3 million formal jobs created annually, the need for practical STEM education, mentorship, and career pathways is urgent. By expanding the fellowship to new regions, Yango aims to help build a diverse, capable, and future-ready STEM workforce, empowering students to develop solutions for challenges faced by their communities. The program encourages collaboration, creativity, and leadership, while building a supportive alumni network that spans the continent.
Adeniyi Adebayo – Chief Business Officer at Yango Group, said:“Africa has an extraordinary pool of talent, who bring creativity, and problem-solving energy. The Yango Fellowship is a hands-on program designed to support these talents, connecting young innovators with the mentorship, resources, and knowledge they need to develop solutions that benefit their communities. This year, the program will be held at our African hub in Abidjan, and with its expansion to six countries, we can share expertise, learn together, and harness technology to make a real impact across the continent.”
The Fellowship has already delivered meaningful impact: past Fellows have launched community projects and became role models in their countries. Yango’s local hubs play a key role in mentoring Fellows, ensuring the program strengthens both talent and local ecosystems.
Beyond the Fellowship, Yango is driving digital innovation by partnering with universities and educational organizations across its markets, sharing expertise with young data scientists and IT students. Through programs like Urban Mobility Hackathons, participants tackle real-world traffic prediction challenges, gaining skills they can apply to improve their cities and communities. All of Yango’s youth initiatives are designed to empower participants with practical knowledge while creating tangible benefits for their local communities and countries.
Applications are now open to university STEM students aged 18–25 in all six countries. Interested candidates can apply until January 26, 2026, at yangofellowship.com.
Watch here testimonial videos of first cohort of Zambian STEM fellows.
As Tatiana Schlossberg underwent stem cell treatment for her terminal cancer battle, her siblings leapt into action to help.
“My sister had turned out to be a match and would donate her stem cells,” Tatiana, 35, wrote in a New Yorker essay published Saturday, November 22, referring to older sister Rose Schlossberg. “My brother [Jack Schlossberg] was a half-match, but he still asked every doctor if maybe a half-match was better, just in case.”
The Schlossberg siblings are the three children of Caroline Kennedy — the daughter of the late John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Kennedy Onaissis — and Edwin Schlossberg.
Tatiana discovered that she was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia in 2024 shortly after giving birth to her second child. (Tatiana and husband George Moran welcomed a son in 2022 and a daughter in 2024.)
After consulting her physicians, Tatiana learned that she had a rare mutation in her blood cells and was subsequently given a year to live.
“I could not be cured by a standard course of treatment. I would need a few months, at least, of chemotherapy, which would aim to reduce the number of blast cells in my bone marrow,” she explained in her “A Battle With My Blood”essay for TheNew Yorker. “Then, I would need a bone-marrow transplant, which could cure me. After the transplant, I would probably need more chemotherapy, on a regular basis, to try to prevent the cancer from returning.”
Tatiana also underwent a couple of clinical trials, in addition to the stem cell treatment using Rose’s donation.
“My sister held her arms straight for hours as the doctors drained blood from one, scooped out and froze her stem cells, and pumped the blood back in the other,” Tatiana recalled of Rose’s procedure. “The cells smelled like canned tomato soup. When the transfusion began, I sneezed twelve times and threw up.”
Prince William, Jack and Tatiana Schlossberg, Caroline Kennedy in 2022.ANGELA WEISS/AFP via Getty Images
She added, “Then I waited — for my blood counts to recover, for my sister’s cells to heal and change my body. We wondered if I would get her banana allergy or her personality. My hair started to fall out and I wore scarves to cover my head, remembering, vainly, each time I tied one on, how great my hair used to be.”
While Tatiana was hospitalized, with Moran by her side, her other relatives helped babysit their children.
“My parents and my brother and sister, too, have been raising my children and sitting in my various hospital rooms almost every day for the last year and a half,” Tatiana wrote. “They have held my hand unflinchingly while I have suffered, trying not to show their pain and sadness in order to protect me from it. This has been a great gift, even though I feel their pain every day.”
She continued, “Now I have added a new tragedy to her life, to our family’s life, and there’s nothing I can do to stop it.”
After Tatiana’s essay was published, her family has been in her corner. Jack, 32, even reposted links to the article via his Instagram, while cousin Maria Shriver also offered her support.
“Tatiana is a beautiful writer, journalist, wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend. This piece is about what she has been going through for the last year and a half,” Shriver, 70, wrote via her Instagram, specifically responding to the New Yorker story. “It’s an ode to all the doctors and nurses who toil on the frontlines of humanity. It’s so many things, but best to read it yourself, and be blown away by one woman’s life story. And let it be a reminder to be grateful for the life you are living today, right now, this very minute.”
56 students were introduced to robotics (including 20 students with special needs), at the Robotics Bootcamp in July 2025, in preparation for the WRO Tanzania national finals on 3 October 2025
Singapore 14 October 2025-/African Media Agency(AMA)/- The World Robot Olympiad (WRO), one of the world’s largest robotics competitions, has expanded significantly across Africa. From just 5 countries in 2020, WRO is now active in 14 countries with more than 40,000 young participants in the 2025 season. Over 2,000 teachers have been trained, with strong backing from the likes of Google, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) and WRO’s own strategic partners. Together they are equipping young Africans with future-ready skills in coding, engineering, and AI.
Each year, WRO® challenges students worldwide to design and build robots to solve real-world problems. This year’s theme, “The Future of Robots,” has sparked bootcamps and workshops across Africa, introducing robotics to hundreds of students, including those from underserved and special needs communities. National champions will represent their countries at the WRO International Final in Singapore this November, joining teams from more than 90 nations.
Innovation with social impact
African youth typically approach innovation with a strong sense of community, often prioritising social impact over profit to address real-world challenges. Team FutureSight, winners of the National Senior Category Championship in Zimbabwe, developed an AI-powered voice assistant for the blind. Their solution supports visually impaired users with daily tasks and is being adapted to local languages to improve accessibility.
In South Africa, Karabo Rithuri’s journey shows how WRO builds skills, confidence, and community impact that lasts far beyond competitions: She joined a pilot programme at 13, and went on to represent her country at the WRO International Final in Malaysia. The experience gave her confidence and inspired her to give back, so when robotics was discontinued at her school, Karabo set up her own club with support from local sponsors. Today she holds degrees in Finance and IT, serves as a WRO judge, and mentors township students.
“WRO gave me a voice, and now I want to help make things even better for the next generation,” said Karabo Rithuri.
Mr Claus Ditlev Christensen, Secretary General, WRO, said: “WRO’s expansion into Africa is an important milestone in our mission to inspire young people through robotics and STEM. We are proud to see African students not only building technical skills but also developing solutions that address real needs in their communities.”
With Africa’s growing youth population and innovation agenda, WRO provides a vital platform for skills development, international exchange, and community-driven innovation. Initiatives such as WRO Learn and the Future Innovators Project are expanding access to robotics education – empowering young people to collaborate, solve problems, and become tomorrow’s changemakers.
World Robot Olympiad Association (WRO®) is a global non-profit that empowers over 100,000 young people across more than 100 countries through hands-on robotics challenges. The competition helps students develop creative problem-solving skills while fostering international collaboration and STEM leadership. Find out more: wro-association.org/.
As part of the partnership, AFTS will allocate 50% of the Alpha Expo Mini Accelerator & Pitch Competition slots to Ghanaian startups and will closely collaborate with MOCDTI in impacting the Ghanaian digital economy with curated workshops, collaborations and investments towards selected startups to participate in the pitch competition. Additionally, MOCDTI will be joining the plenary panel entitled “Focus on Ghana’s Digital Economy – The Inside Edge” and will outline how Ghana’s ICT policy, regulatory framework and the opportunity for global investors to participate.
“The future is global and Ghana is ready to lead, and we will outline how we position Ghana as Africa’s Digital Trade Hub at the Africa Fintech Summit in Accra in October,” said Hon. Samuel Nartey George (MP), Minister for MOC. “In addition to key government initiatives shaping a knowledge-driven economy, including the One Million Coders Programme, Ghana Tech Lab and investments in STEM education, the upcoming presentation of the Innovations and Start-up Bill and other multi-layered policy space and regulatory reforms are catered to ensure that Ghana’s undisputed position as the digital hub for Africa and a 24 hour digital economy which will provide actionable data for global techprenours to note of the massive opportunities and join our drive.”
Zekarias Amsalu, Co-Founder of AFTS and Managing Director of Ibex Frontier, added: “We are very grateful for bringing our flagship Africa Fintech Summit to Accra as well as welcoming MOCDTI as our strategic partner. We look forward to showcasing Ghana as a digital economy investment destination, and in line with our theme of From Africa to the World, showcase Ghanian innovators and problem solvers to our global investing community via our Alpha Expo Mini Accelerator & Pitch Competition Program. Additionally, we look forward to creating live streaming capabilities across universities and colleges in Ghana so students across the country join the summit live wherever they are to cross-pollinate thought leadership and innovative ideas widely.”
In its 14th edition, #AFTSACCRA25 will bring together over 1,500 in-person and 3,000 virtual attendees from 65 countries, including startups, investors, regulators, and innovators. Programming includes:
Keynotes, Masterclasses, Workshops,
Closed Door Roundtables, Bilateral Meetings
Alpha Expo Mini Accelerator & Pitch Competition for Early-Stage Startups
Networking Receptions, Excellence in Fintech Award Ceremony, Happy Hour, VIP Dinners & Ecosystem Tours in & around Accra
Curated Conference Tourism Travel
Since its launch in 2018, AFTS has helped facilitate over $300 million in funding for African early-stage fintech startups and contributes an estimated $3 million per event in conference tourism impact to host economies every year.
AFTS ( https://africafintechsummit.com ) is the premier global initiative dedicated to the African fintech ecosystem. AFTS is traditionally hosted in Washington, D.C., each April during the World Bank/IFC annual meeting week and in a different African city every October/November. The summit is being held in a hybrid format, in person in the selected Venue and live virtual delegates from around the world.
A Mauritanian appeals court on Wednesday sentenced former President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz to 15 years in prison and imposed a $3 million fine, escalating a previous five-year sentence handed down in 2023 for corruption charges.
Aziz, a former military general who rose to power through two coups before serving as president from 2009 to 2019, was found guilty of money laundering and illicit self-enrichment. Investigators say he amassed over $70 million in assets during his decade in office. He has remained in custody since his initial conviction last year.
The trial has drawn international attention as a rare example of an African head of state being held accountable for corruption while in office. Aziz’s legal team has dismissed the charges as politically motivated, alleging they stem from a falling-out with his successor, President Mohamed Ould Cheikh Ghazouani.
Once close allies, Aziz and Ghazouani experienced a sharp rift after Mauritania’s first peaceful democratic transition of power in 2019. Tensions escalated when Aziz attempted to reclaim influence within the ruling party. In 2020, a parliamentary commission launched a sweeping investigation into alleged corruption during his administration, eventually implicating 11 others.
Wednesday’s ruling cleared six high-ranking officials from Aziz’s former government but upheld a two-year prison sentence for his son-in-law on charges of influence peddling. The court also ordered the dissolution of the “Errahma” (Mercy) Foundation, run by Aziz’s son, and authorized the seizure of its assets.
Mauritania, despite its vast natural wealth, including iron ore, gold, copper, oil, and natural gas, continues to face high levels of poverty. According to the United Nations, nearly 60% of the population lives below the poverty line, often working in informal jobs or agriculture. Economic hardship has driven many young Mauritanians to seek opportunities abroad, with increasing numbers attempting to migrate to Europe and the United States via irregular routes.
Aziz’s sentencing could mark a pivotal moment in Mauritania’s political and judicial history, signaling a potentially stronger stance against corruption among high-level officials. However, the case remains politically sensitive in a country where institutions are still consolidating democratic norms.
(WRO), one of the world’s largest robotics competitions, has expanded significantly across Africa. From just 5 countries in 2020, WRO is now active in 14 countries with more than 40,000 young participants in the 2025 season. Over 2,000 teachers have been trained, with strong backing from the likes of Google, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) and WRO’s own strategic partners. Together they are equipping young Africans with future-ready skills in coding, engineering, and AI.
