What Happened on Africa Daily News in August 2024?
If you missed the buzz last month, you’re in the right place. We’ve packed this page with the biggest headlines that mattered to African readers – from football deals and Olympic drama to a crypto rally and some heartfelt health stories.
Top Sports Highlights
The transfer window kept us on our toes. Liverpool was linked with Juventus winger Federico Chiesa, while Arsenal chased Real Sociedad’s midfielder Mikel Merino for around €30 million. Chelsea splashed £54 million on Pedro Neto from Wolves, and a 16‑year‑old Irish talent Jaden Umeh headed to Benfica.
Premier League matchups also stole the limelight. Leicester City faced Tottenham in a clash that featured injury doubts for Jamie Vardy and Patson Daka, while Aston Villa beat Athletic Bilbao 3‑2 in a pre‑season friendly that highlighted their youth prospects.
On the athletics side, Neeraj Chopra barely missed the 90‑metre mark at the Lausanne Diamond League, securing second place with an impressive 89.49 m throw. Meanwhile, gymnast Jordan Chiles was ordered to return her Olympic bronze after a CAS ruling on a doping violation.
Entertainment & Lifestyle Buzz
In entertainment news, Nigerian director TG Omori opened up about his failed kidney transplant and begged fans not to let him die. The plea resonated across the continent, sparking an outpouring of support.
Hollywood drama continued with Mark Wahlberg and Halle Berry’s new Netflix film “The Union,” which fell short of expectations despite a star‑studded cast. On the reality side, Love Island stars Molly‑Mae Hague and Tommy Fury split after five years together, while Skai Jackson faced an arrest at Universal Studios amid pregnancy rumors.
We also said goodbye to French cinema legend Alain Delon, who passed away at 88, leaving behind a monumental legacy that inspired generations of actors.
Crypto fans got a lift as Bitcoin surged past $35,000 and Ethereum topped $2,000 after regulatory clarity and institutional backing. The market’s bounce gave traders fresh optimism heading into the holiday season.
Political headlines weren’t quiet either. Johannesburg’s mayor Kabelo Gwamanda resigned amid party infighting, prompting a scramble for new leadership in South Africa’s biggest city. In the UK, courts dismissed Shamima Begum’s final appeal on citizenship, reigniting debates on national security and human rights.
All these stories and more shaped August 2024 on Africa Daily News. Bookmark this archive to revisit any article, catch up on details you missed, or just relive the month that kept us all talking.
TG Omori's Emotional Plea After Failed Kidney Transplant: 'I Don't Want To Die'
TG Omori, a prominent Nigerian music video director, has publicly shared his struggle with health issues following a failed kidney transplant. After his sole brother's kidney donation, Omori faced a series of unsuccessful surgeries at a Lagos hospital. His heartfelt plea, 'I don't want to die,' resonated deeply as fans and colleagues rallied to support him during this challenging time.
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Liverpool Eyes Juventus Winger Federico Chiesa: A Potential Transfer Coup
Liverpool is reportedly considering a move for Federico Chiesa as the winger faces an uncertain future at Juventus under new manager Thiago Motta. Despite being a part of Italy's Euro 2024 squad, Chiesa wasn’t included in Juventus' recent league match. Liverpool's interest comes amid their broader transfer strategy under sporting director Richard Hughes and new manager Arne Slot.
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Neeraj Chopra's Remarkable Second-Place Finish at Lausanne Diamond League, Nearly Breaks 90m Barrier
Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra delivered a stunning performance at the 2024 Lausanne Diamond League, narrowly missing the 90-meter mark with a season-best throw of 89.49 meters. Despite initial struggles, he secured second place behind Anderson Peters, significantly boosting his standings in the Diamond League.
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Arsenal Nears Mikel Merino Deal as Eddie Nketiah Heads to Nottingham Forest
Arsenal is on the brink of completing a significant deal to bring Real Sociedad's Mikel Merino to the club. The transfer is set at £28 million plus £4 million in add-ons. Concurrently, striker Eddie Nketiah is nearing a move to Nottingham Forest, with a £30 million fee on the table. Personal terms and final agreements are pending for both players.
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Leicester City vs Tottenham Premier League Clash: Team News, Line-Ups, and Detailed Preview
Tottenham Hotspur kicks off their 2024/25 Premier League season with an away game against newly-promoted Leicester City. Leicester, returning to the top flight after their Championship title win, faces injury woes with key players Jamie Vardy and Patson Daka doubtful. Tottenham has fewer injury concerns but will miss Yves Bissouma due to suspension. Both teams' predicted line-ups and match expectations are explored.
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Legendary French Actor Alain Delon Passes Away at 88 Leaving a Monumental Legacy
Alain Delon, an iconic figure in French cinema, has passed away at the age of 88, leaving behind a rich cinematic legacy. Known for his striking roles in films such as 'Rocco and His Brothers' and 'The Leopard,' Delon worked with acclaimed directors throughout his career. His contributions to the film industry are monumental, and his passing marks the end of an era in French cinema.
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Erik ten Hag and Jadon Sancho: Navigating Tensions at Manchester United
Erik ten Hag's time at Manchester United has been marked by conflicts with key players like Jadon Sancho. Though their relationship strained initially, recent developments show signs of reconciliation. Ten Hag's approach to management and player engagement continues to evolve, reflecting the ongoing efforts to improve the team's success and environment.
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Thrill Turns Tepid in Netflix's 'The Union' Starring Mark Wahlberg and Halle Berry
'The Union,' directed by Julian Farino, features Mark Wahlberg and Halle Berry in an underwhelming action-comedy. The film, which draws heavily from the Mission: Impossible series, fails to establish a cohesive tone and lacks the needed humor and action. Despite having a promising cast, the screenplay by Joe Barton and David Guggenheim falls short in delivering a compelling story.
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Molly-Mae Hague and Tommy Fury Part Ways: Love Island's Iconic Couple Ends Relationship Amidst Cheating Allegations
Molly-Mae Hague and Tommy Fury, known for their romance on Love Island, have announced their breakup after five years together. The couple, who had been engaged since July 2023 and share a daughter named Bambi, revealed their split amidst rumors of infidelity. Their sudden breakup has left fans in shock and brought an end to one of Love Island's most celebrated relationships.
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Skai Jackson Arrested for Alleged Battery at Universal Studios Amid Engagement, Pregnancy
Skai Jackson, a former Disney Channel star, was arrested at Universal Studios Hollywood for allegedly pushing her boyfriend, who is also her fiancé. The couple, who are reportedly expecting a child, admitted to the incident but downplayed its severity. Jackson was released after posting bond and is set to appear in court on October 11.
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Kabelo Gwamanda Steps Down: Johannesburg Faces New Leadership Challenge
Kabelo Gwamanda has resigned as Johannesburg's Mayor amidst political turmoil and party disputes. His tenure, filled with urban development efforts and governance challenges, now ends abruptly, raising questions about future leadership in the city. The City Council will urgently meet to address the next steps.
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Chelsea Signs Pedro Neto in £54m Transfer: Boosting Attacking Prowess with Wolves Star
Chelsea has successfully acquired Pedro Neto from Wolverhampton Wanderers for £54 million. The Portuguese winger, now on a long-term contract, strengthens Chelsea's offensive line. This strategic investment aims to enhance the team's competitive edge in Premier League and European competitions.
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