Arrest Made in Connection with Soldier’s Murder Near TampouyEthiopian Archives and Library Service Marks 80 Years with New Building and Digitization EffortsKikuyu Cultural Elders to Hold Events Without Interference, Deputy President Assures

Ouagadougou – Authorities have detained an individual following the fatal shooting of a sergeant near a drinking establishment in Tampouy, district no. 3 of Ouagadougou, officials reported on Sunday. The incident occurred between the night of Friday, February 23, and the early hours of Saturday, February 24, 2024.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the suspect was apprehended on Saturday around 4 p.m., in possession of the firearm believed to be used in the homicide. Sources close to the gendarmerie confirmed the arrest and stated that the individual, now in police custody, is expected to be turned over to judicial authorities upon completion of the ongoing investigation.

The AIB wishes to correct an earlier report, clarifying that the victim was a member of the military, not the gendarmerie, and extends its apologies for any confusion.

ADDIS ABABA — Celebrating its 80th anniversary, the Ethiopian Archives and Library Service was hailed by experts for its significant contribution to preserving the nation’s heritage and expanding knowledge access. The institution inaugurated a new 17-storey building, underscoring its commitment to enhancing service provision and embracing digital transformation.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, the Ethiopian Archives and Library Service’s journey over eight decades has established it as a pivotal repository of Ethiopia’s vast and diverse cultural, historical, and intellectual wealth. The new facility is part of broader efforts to modernize and digitize the service, making it more accessible to researchers and the public alike.

Girma Getahun, a researcher from Oxford University specializing in Language, History, and Literature, shared his personal connection with the archives, tracing back to his childhood. Despite relocating from Ethiopia, Getahun continues to rely on the institution’s resources, emphasizing its role in his academic and personal development.

Shibru Tedla, an Emeritus Professor of Biology, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the archives’ indispensable value for academic research and education. Tedla advocated for the expansion of the archives’ reach by incorporating documents and records from across the country to foster a more inclusive repository.

The preservation efforts of the Ethiopian Archives and Library Service also extend to the country’s musical heritage, as noted by Dawit Yifru, President of the Ethiopian Music Sector Association. Yifru praised the institution for documenting and safeguarding Ethiopia’s musical evolution, ensuring its accessibility for future generations and scholarly work.

Contributions to preserving indigenous knowledge and Islamic historical manuscripts were also commended. Priest Fikade Bishaw and Islamic Manuscripts Guide, Abdelrasi Haji Mohammed Amin, respectively, highlighted the service’s role in protecting diverse cultural and religious narratives, with ongoing digitization efforts aimed at broadening access and engagement.

The 80th-anniversary celebrations of the Ethiopian Archives and Library Service not only reflect on its historic achievements but also pave the way for future initiatives focused on enhancing knowledge accessibility and preserving Ethiopia’s rich heritage for generations to come. The institution’s new building symbolizes this enduring mission, promising a continued legacy of service and scholarship.

NYERI COUNTY – Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua announced on Saturday night that Kikuyu cultural elders have been given the executive’s nod to conduct their cultural events without any disruptions from security agencies. The declaration was made during the 5th edition of the Ngogoyo ya Rware music extravaganza held at the Honi Resort in Nyeri County, emphasizing the government’s commitment to preserving Gikuyu cultural traditions and values.

According to Kenya News Agency, a consensus was reached with security agents to allow uninterrupted cultural ceremonies aimed at uniting the community and mentoring the youth, especially the boy child who he mentioned has been neglected. However, Gachagua urged the cultural elders to remain vigilant to prevent these events from being exploited by individuals with malicious intentions.

The Ngogoyo ya Rware event, celebrating old Kikuyu music known as Ngogoyo, attracted artists and hundreds of fans for a night filled with song and dance. The Deputy President was joined by a host of government officials, including Principal Secretary Gender and Affirmative Action Anne Wang’ombe, Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, and representatives from both the Senate and the National Assembly.

In his address, Gachagua called for unity within the Mount Kenya region, urging the GEMA community to avoid divisive politics that threaten the bloc’s cohesion. He highlighted the importance of speaking with one voice to maintain the community’s strength and unity.

Furthermore, Gachagua reiterated the government’s determination to combat alcoholism and drug abuse, referencing a recent tragedy in Kirinyaga County where 23 people died from consuming illicit brew. He announced upcoming interventions targeting manufacturers and distributors of such dangerous substances, clarifying that the government’s efforts are aimed at safeguarding public health without undermining legitimate businesses.

The Deputy President’s statements underline a comprehensive approach to cultural preservation, community unity, and public health, setting the stage for future initiatives to address these critical issues.