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KIGALI-(MaraviPost)-Airtel Africa, a leading provider of telecommunications and mobile money services across 14 African countries, has highlighted industry partnerships, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data centres as critical pillars for delivering Africa’s digital future.

Airtel Africa’s Chief Executive Officer, Sunil Taldar observes that the efforts will shape the next decade of
Africa’s telecom revolution, marking a shift from merely connecting people to enabling them to create value through such connections.

In a keynote address at the 2025 Mobile World Congress (also known as MWC25) Kigali, Taldar stated: “Africa’s digital decade has begun. The continent that once leapfrogged into mobile telephony is now ready to leap again – into an era where every byte of data fuels productivity and every connection builds prosperity.”

He said, “Africa is ready for its next leap from access to productivity. This requires partnership between operators who co-build, technology manufactures who equip, regulators who enable, investors who believe, tax regimes which support and young Africans who create.

“Together we can build a continent where data is processed locally, talent is nurtured nationally,
and innovation is scaled globally”.

Airtel Africa CEO adds “Africa’s digital future needs AI to make networks smarter and greener, customer experiences more intuitive and mobile money more secure and intuitive.

“It will also require a connected network of data centres linked by high-capacity fibre to
unlock inclusive digital participation even in remote regions.”

He stated further, “Airtel Africa is investing in major data-centre hubs in Nigeria and Kenya to support
the continent’s digital future.

“We are also deploying AI in operations, including SMS spam detection, customer onboarding, mobile money fraud detection and sites’ energy optimisation”.

This year’s edition of the annual gathering of industry leaders, innovators and policymakers held annually in Kigali Rwanda tagged MWC25 explores how connectivity and digital technologies are
accelerating Africa’s transformation.

Speaking when he officially opened MWC25 Kigali, Rwanda’s President, Paul Kagame noted that
Africa has gone from limited connectivity to a mobile-driven economy in a few years.

“While the challenges that Africa faces are significant, they also offer great growth potential if we
collaborate. Governments, the private sector and other partners should harmonise policies and create the right environment for innovation.

“This will enable our data and payment systems to
flow securely across borders and connect our economies. The future we must build is an Africa
that is bold, connected and competitive,” President Kagame added.

The discussions at MWC25 closely align with Malawi’s Vision 2063, which identifies digital transformation as a key driver of inclusive economic growth and sustainable development.

Airtel Malawi’s strategic focus on expanding digital infrastructure, integrating AI technologies, and
enhancing mobile money services supports national goals around innovation, youth empowerment, and competitiveness, reinforcing the country’s position in Africa’s digital future.

The post Airtel pushes for collaboration in building Africa’s digital future appeared first on The Maravi Post.

Dancing With the Stars season 34 honored the world of Wicked with some incredible performances — and a brand new sneak peek at what’s to come in For Good.

During the Tuesday, October 21, episode of the ABC dance competition series, director Jon M. Chu revealed a glimpse at the upcoming film, which featured The Wizard (Jeff Goldblum) explaining how he became popular in Oz. He, along with some help from Glinda (Ariana Grande), sang “Wonderful” to Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), promising they can make her “wonderful” too.

Part 1 of Wicked’s two-part movie adaptation was released in November 2024 and followed the first act of the iconic Broadway show that shares the backstory of Glinda and Elphaba before the events of The Wizard of Oz.

While the first film ended with Glinda and Elphaba parting ways before Elphaba fled Shiz University, part two will pick up a few years later with Elphaba, now the Wicked Witch of the West, continuing her plans to help the land’s animals when Glinda rises to power as the Wizard’s spokeswoman.

‘Dancing With the Stars’ Season 34 Wicked Night Songs Revealed

“What’s wonderful about the show is that you get an insight into why this woman becomes the Wicked Witch of the West, but you have only three hours to do it in,” Erivo, 38, told Entertainment Weekly in February about why Wicked was split into separate parts. “With us, you have two movies.”

She noted that Glinda and Elphaba’s friendship has also been “expanded” thanks to the extra time, adding, “That’s a really important, special thing that you have in the show, but here you really get to go with them in that. We’ve got something really special.”

For Good will also reveal how Dorothy, the Tin Man, the Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion came together. Ethan Slater, who portrayed Boq in the first movie, gave a sneak peek of his character’s transformation into Tin Man earlier this month, while For Good’s trailer has shared brief glimpses at Fieryo’s (Jonathan Bailey) Scarecrow look. The actress portraying Dorothy remains under wraps, but it was revealed earlier this week that Colman Domingo will be voicing the Cowardly Lion.

Ahead of Domingo’s reveal, Chu teased he had cast a major A-lister in the role after sliding into their DMs. “I was like, ‘It’s not a ton of lines, but maybe you have a little time. I know you’re busy. I’ll come to you,’” the filmmaker recalled to Deadline in an October 16 interview. “He was like, ‘Why the f*** not, let’s go!’ And then we went ahead and recorded the lines.”

Songs from both Wicked and Wicked: For Good were featured on Tuesday’s episode of Dancing With the Stars, from Robert Irwin and Witney Caron’s jazz performance of “Dancing Through Life” to Secret Lives of Mormon Wives’ Whitney Leavitt and Mark Ballas’ quickstep to “Popular.”

‘DWTS’ Ends in Emotional Elimination After ‘Wicked’ Night: Who Went Home?

Grande and Erivo also made video cameos throughout the night alongside Bailey and Michelle Yeoh, who portrays Madame Morrible in the films. Chu also served as guest judge for the week.

“Wicked is a beloved tale of two best friends who change each other’s lives for good,” Erivo said, while Grande added, “So rejoicify! Let’s kick off this special Wicked celebration with a speculator opening number created by our wonderful choreographer Chris Scott.”

Chu also shared his excitement over being in the ballroom at the start of the evening.

“It’s my favorite movie and my favorite TV show combined, this is going to be incredible,” Chu said at the top of the episode. “But anything you know about dance, the power of it, it’s not the technical ultimately. When you get over that, you guys have been rehearsing great, now it’s about telling the story. Fill us with all the feelings today.”

Dancing With the Stars airs on ABC and Disney+ Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET. Wicked: For Good hits theaters on November 21.

The post ‘DWTS’ Gives Sneak Peek at Glinda and Elphaba ‘Wicked: For Good’ Reunion appeared first on The Maravi Post.

High Potential finally revealed what was in Roman’s backpack as Morgan continued her search..

During the Tuesday, October 21, episode of the hit ABC series, Morgan (Kaitlin Olson) and Ava (Amirah J) were on the outs, which meant Roman’s backpack remained unopened. It wasn’t until the end of the episode that Morgan revealed the contents of the bag, which hinted that Roman kept track of his daughter.

One of the items in the backpack showed that Roman attended Ava’s dance recital when she was younger. This proved that Roman still cared about Ava, even after he mysteriously disappeared. Morgan said she wasn’t sure about the rest of the items in the backpack, but isn’t giving up on her search for her ex.

High Potential, which premiered in September 2024, follows a high-potential intellectual named Morgan who teams up with the LAPD to help solve murders. She gets paired up with Karadec (Daniel Sunjata), who is initially skeptical about how Morgan can assist the Major Crimes unit but ultimately starts to rely on her.

Which ‘High Potential’ Stars Are — And Aren’t — Returning for Season 2?

The season 1 finale aired in February and confirmed that Morgan’s ex Roman was still alive after going missing for more than a decade. The only information Morgan — and all of Us — have is that her ex worked as an FBI informant and he doesn’t trust the LAPD. This has created an issue for Morgan since she’s a consultant, which Roman has questioned according to his friend Arthur (Mekhi Phifer).

Executive producer and showrunner Todd Harthan previously spoke to Us Weekly about the plan for Roman’s unveiling.

“We’ve talked about it quite a bit like, ‘Wow, we have the time, and hopefully now the show is a success and we could go and get this actor or that actor.’ But the truth is, I haven’t had a deep conversation with Kaitlin about it — and she’ll have a strong opinion. She’s very active and involved with casting and has incredible instincts,” Harthan exclusively told Us in February. “So the short answer is no. We have some favorites and actors I really respect that would be great.”

‘High Potential’ Burning Questions Answered After Major Reveal About Roman

Roman might not return right away though.

“I think frustration is a good thing with an audience. It is a healthy frustration — don’t give them too much of what they want too soon,” Harthan noted about the “deepening” mystery. “I’d be totally lying if I said I have all the answers to that mystery. The wonderful thing about welcoming other brains to the room is how we make sure we don’t fumble this ball and we tell this story in the most satisfying way imaginable. There’s some cool stuff coming though.”

Amirah, meanwhile, recently teased what fans can expect in season 2, sharing with Us, “In my opinion, I love season 1 but I feel like season 2 is going to be even better, which I think is going to be really exciting for the fans to see. There is definitely more drama, it is more suspenseful and more heartbreaking in a way too. But in a good way.”

High Potential airs on ABC Tuesdays at 10 p.m. ET before streaming the next day on Hulu.

The post What Is in Roman’s Backpack on ‘High Potential’? Mystery Revealed Amid Search appeared first on The Maravi Post.

Happy birthday, Glen Powell … and boy, is it a revealing one! The “Top Gun: Maverick” hunk turned 37 Tuesday, and his buddy John Stamos marked the occasion by dropping a very cheeky tribute on Instagram featuring a carousel of photos that could…

The post Glen Powell’s Birthday Gets Steamy Thanks to John Stamos’ Naked Tribute appeared first on The Maravi Post.

A Texas man is accusing a Customs and Border Protection agent of fatally shooting his pet dog during a sweep for undocumented migrants at his home — but the feds say the pooch was at fault because it was too hostile. Although the shooting went…

The post Border Agent Allegedly Shot, Killed Pet Dog During Migrant Sweep at Texas Home appeared first on The Maravi Post.

…..As debates swirl about MCP’s potential return to power, Malawians express skepticism, frustration, and pointed opinions about the party’s future.

Speculation about the Malawi Congress Party (MCP) making a political comeback has generated a wide range of reactions among citizens.

Some argue that the party’s opportunity to regain power is conditional on the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) performing worse than MCP in future elections.

“If DPP performs well, far much better than you, the only opportunity for you to bounce back is when DPP fails worse than you,” one citizen remarked.

Several individuals have expressed that MCP cannot rise again without the political influence of Vice President Saulos Chilima.

“I am not an analyst, koma in my opinion I don’t think it’s possible,” one observer stated.

Others have suggested that MCP’s revival would require a generational shift, with a new cohort of leaders yet to be born.

“When people are going through tough times, they spread the gospel and eventually they become prophets,” a comment highlighted, reflecting a mix of humor and political cynicism.

In a more satirical tone, some citizens recommended sending party leaders back to school, suggesting that education might help them regain relevance.

“School will be free from January; please send Kumkuyu to school again, it will help him a lot,” one user commented.

Many reactions outright dismissed the idea of MCP returning to power, emphasizing that the party will never govern Malawi again.

“Forget about it, Mr… MCP will never reign this country again,” one citizen insisted.

Others expressed skepticism toward the party’s slogan or rhetoric of revival, questioning the feasibility of their political ambitions.

“Rise to where?” another respondent asked.

“No retreat, no surrender moving forward,” one comment read, perhaps highlighting the resilience of current political forces.

Some observers framed MCP’s aspirations as mere dreams, disconnected from political reality.

“In their dreams, not reality,” one citizen bluntly remarked.

Citizens also mocked the party’s ambitions with phrases like “Maloto achumba,” implying that MCP’s hopes are fanciful and unattainable.

A critical voice recounted historical grievances, arguing that past actions by MCP leaders had already closed doors to political resurgence.

“Inu kuphwanya ufulu wa nzika pomagwiritsa ntchito anyamata azikwanje munkawona ngat ndi udolo? Inu nde munaziyipitsira nokha basi… president woyamba wa MCP ndi Kamuzu Banda, ndipo amene watsekera ndi Chakwera… simuzalamuranso,” one citizen wrote.

Even attempts to organize alliances or reclaim opposition space were met with sharp skepticism.

“Ndipo tiyesesa kut 2023 ngakhale u leader of opposition muzaumvere fungo… anthu oyipa inu mufika potheratu ngat sanza,” another comment warned.

Other users continued to stress that MCP’s return is highly unlikely, using vivid metaphors and humor to emphasize their points.

“It will rise in your dreams,” one wrote.

“MCP never again,” another echoed, underscoring persistent public distrust.

Some citizens blamed the party for past mistakes, claiming certain missteps, including the death of Saulos Chilima, permanently barred their return.

“Mistake yomwe munapanga yomupha Chilima ija simuzalowaso m’boma,” a user noted.

The sentiment that MCP’s political revival is unrealistic was shared repeatedly, often accompanied by derisive language.

“The same way mukayankhulira kut simungachoke m’boma,” one user stated.

Others summarized their thoughts with brief, dismissive expressions.

“Kulota salesana… MCP never again until Jesus Christ comes in the world,” one post read.

Cynicism was also expressed through metaphors about wealth and fairness.

“When you see a poor man eating chicken, it is either the chicken is sick or the man is sick,” one comment quipped.

Some even joked about extreme timelines, highlighting how distant MCP’s hypothetical return would be.

“The only soonest is 3025,” one user remarked, exaggerating for effect.

Overall, these responses reflect a combination of skepticism, political cynicism, humor, and historical grievances regarding MCP’s prospects.

“As of now, let’s assume that we are just dreaming to be ruled by MCP,” one citizen concluded, encapsulating the prevailing sentiment.

The responses provide insight into how Malawians perceive the party’s political relevance, demonstrating that while political hope remains for some, the majority see MCP’s comeback as highly improbable.

The post Doudbtful MCP’s comeback: Citizens weigh in amid speculations appeared first on The Maravi Post.

Vice President JD Vance says he’s optimistic about the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas as the U.S. pushes for the next phase of the deal. It’s week four of the government shutdown, and the White House is ramping up pressure with cuts and layoffs. And the demolition of the East Wing raises legal and ethical questions about President Trump’s ballroom project.

Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.

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Reba McEntire revealed her bond with former stepson Brandon Blackstock won’t soon be forgotten following his death earlier this year.

“My relationship with my stepson, Brandon Blackstock, was precious,” McEntire, 70, told People on Tuesday, October 21, following Blackstock’s death in August at the age of 48. “I absolutely loved that child.”

McEntire recalled Brandon coming into her life when he was 4 years old after she started dating his father, Narvel Blackstock, whom she wed in 1989. (Brandon followed in his father’s footsteps and became a music manager prior to his untimely death.)

“Then when Narvel and I got married, he was 13, 14,” the Voice coach remembered, noting that because Brandon was just a kid when they met, she was an active part of his upbringing.

Reba McEntire Breaks Her Silence on Stepson Brandon Blackstock’s Death

“Along with his mom and dad, I helped raise him, along with [Narvel’s other kids] Shawna and Chassidy,” McEntire said. “They were my kids.” (McEntire and Narvel, 69, share one son, Shelby, 35.)

The country singer, who divorced Narvel in 1995, still has fond memories of Brandon, remembering him as the “funny” young child who loved to “pull pranks.”

“He loved to scare people,” McEntire revealed, noting Narvel’s employees at Starstruck Entertainment were some of his favorite targets. “We’d be at the office there at Starstruck in Nashville and I’d be sitting at my desk and I’d see Penny Chubb [a Starstruck Entertainment employee] walk by going to the lady’s room, and then here comes Brandon. He’d hide behind the pillar.”

McEntire laughed when thinking about Brandon as a kid standing for 10 minutes just “waiting to scare somebody.”

The Happy’s Place actress noted that the jokes didn’t stop there.

“If you ever parked your car in front of the house at a family dinner you better take your keys,” McEntire said of another one of Brandon’s go-to moves. “Or he would take that car and drive it all the way around to the greenhouse and you’d have to walk in the dark and go get your car.”

Looking Back on Brandon Blackstock’s Bond With Former Stepmom Reba McEntire

McEntire confessed, “I love to pull a good prank but he came by that naturally.”

She added that everyone in the family appreciated his “sense of humor,” adding that their lives are forever changed without him.

“Brandon is sorely missed, truly missed with his mischievousness and his love of life,” McEntire concluded. “He brought joy to everybody that met him, and we’ll never forget him.”

McEntire was married to Narvel for 26 years — and was the stepmother to his three children before welcoming their son Shelby in 1990 — before calling it quits in 1995. Narvel was also McEntire’s manager prior to their divorce.

When Brandon married Kelly Clarkson, McEntire’s bond with him and his then-wife only seemed to grow stronger. While Clarkson, 43, filed for divorce from Brandon in 2020 after seven years of marriage, she remained close to McEntire — as did her and Brandon’s children, River, 11, and Remy, 9. (Brandon was also the father of Savannah, 23, and Seth, 18, from his marriage to Melissa Ashworth.)

Us Weekly confirmed in August that Brandon died following a private battle with cancer.

“It is with great sadness that we share the news that Brandon Blackstock has passed away,” a rep for the family shared in a statement to Us. “Brandon bravely battled cancer for more than three years. He passed away peacefully and was surrounded by family. We thank you for your thoughts and prayers and ask everyone to respect the family’s privacy during this very difficult time.”

Brandon Blackstock Seen With Reba McEntire and Rex Linn Months Before Death

The following month, McEntire gave an update on how Brandon’s kids were holding up.

“The kids are doing well, they’re all bonding together and hanging out with each other, and taking it one day at a time,” McEntire told Entertainment Tonight in September. “We know God’s got this.”

During the family’s heartbreak, McEntire has leaned on her fiancé, Rex Linn, whom she began dating in 2020. Us confirmed in September that Linn, 68, and McEntire are engaged. The singer later revealed that Linn popped the question in 2024.

“Rex brings out the little girl in me, and I have fun. I’m dorky, I’m goofy. He is too. We love to laugh, and we love each other,” McEntire exclusively told Us in October 2024.

The post Reba McEntire Recalls ‘Precious’ Bond With Late Stepson Brandon Blackstock appeared first on The Maravi Post.

Aaron Goodwin is still processing his estranged wife’s alleged murder-for-hire plot against him as he continues to navigate his new “normal.”

“Thank u for all reaching out & being awesome, but unfortunately, I can’t talk about anything yet,” the Ghost Adventures star, 49, said in a statement shared via his Instagram on Tuesday, October 21. “I could tell you guys I’m doing OK, but I would rather be honest.”

Goodwin confessed that he is still struggling to come to terms with what transpired.

“Just know I’m not doing good at all & everyday is worse with all I’m learning all the time,” he continued. “They say in time everything gets better but I just want the divorce to be over so I can move on with my life.”

Aaron Goodwin and Estranged Wife Victoria’s Relationship Timeline

Goodwin acknowledged that he has received a lot of requests from the media, giving him the opportunity to share his perspective, but he’s not in the emotional state to say “yes.”

“Honestly, I probably couldn’t make it through an interview without being in tears and I’m just not ready yet,” he penned. “This has been the worst year of my life.”

Earlier this year, Aaron’s estranged wife, Victoria Goodwin, was arrested on charges of soliciting to commit murder and conspiring to commit murder. Victoria, who wed Aaron in August 2022, was accused of making contact with a Florida inmate named Grant Amato for the purpose of hiring someone to murder Aaron in 2024 while he was traveling to film his show, Ghost Adventures. Aaron filed for divorce days after news broke of Victoria’s arrest.

Victoria initially denied the allegations, claiming to police that she did not want her husband killed. Victoria later agreed to a plea deal and pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit murder in April. Two months later, Victoria was convicted and sentenced to 36 to 90 months in prison. She also apologized to her estranged husband in court.

“I’m so immensely sorry for the pain and anxiety I’ve caused you and the betrayal you undoubtedly and rightfully feel by my actions,” Victoria said during a June court appearance. “I need you to know that I will always hold love for you. I genuinely pray you find your joy and peace again, and I will bow out of your life forever to hopefully ease that process. I’m sorry I broke us, and I’m consumed with regret every day. My absolute promise to you is that you’ll never see or hear from me.”

That same month, Aaron also spoke in court to provide a victim impact statement.

Aaron Goodwin Claims Wife ‘Got Spiritually Married’ to Jailed Murderer

“For seven years I thought I was in the most loving relationship of marriage with my best friend, someone who I trusted in [my] whole heart and laughed with every day,” Aaron said. “Someone who made me feel like I was settled — like I was her one and only. I was loyal to her and [did] whatever I could to make her happy. I thought we were something very special, and so did everyone else.”

Aaron and Victoria’s divorce is ongoing. According to court documents obtained by Us Weekly in August, Victoria responded to Aaron’s petition that stated that the pair “have become incompatible to the extent that it has become impossible for them to live together as husband and wife in marital harmony. That there is no possibility of reconciliation between husband and wife.”

According to Victoria’s response, she “believes” that she and Aaron can “reconcile” their marriage.

The post Ghost Adventures’ Aaron Goodwin Gives Life Update After Wife’s Murder Plot appeared first on The Maravi Post.

Travis Kelce is channeling his inner kid with his latest business move — the Kansas City Chiefs superstar loves roller coasters so much, he invested in Six Flags!! Taylor Swift’s fiancé revealed the news on Tuesday … saying it was an…

The post Travis Kelce Invests In Six Flags Over Childhood Love For Cedar Point appeared first on The Maravi Post.