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Russia Advances Visa-Free Travel to Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Eswatini

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Russia is actively negotiating visa-free travel agreements with four southern African nations—Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Eswatini.

The move is a strategic push to expand tourism, deepen diplomatic and economic ties, and capitalize on evolving global travel dynamics.

The initiative, announced amid ongoing discussions, could make these wildlife-rich and culturally vibrant destinations more accessible to Russian travelers, offering an alternative to traditional European spots.

Sangadzhi Tarbaev, head of Russia Duma’s tourism committee, highlighted the growing interest among Russians in African travel, noting that Africa (beyond popular North African hubs like Egypt) is emerging as an attractive destination.

“Africa, with the exception of Egypt, is not a mass destination, but it does attract tourists,” Tarbaev stated, as quoted in Russian media reports.

Negotiations aim to add these countries to Russia’s existing network of visa-free partners in Africa.

Currently, Russian citizens enjoy reciprocal visa-free entry to 11 African nations, including Angola, Botswana, Cape Verde, Mauritius, Malawi, Morocco, Namibia, Sao Tome and Principe, Seychelles, Tunisia, and South Africa. Tatyana Dovgalenko, director of the Russian Foreign Ministry’s Department for Partnership with Africa, emphasized that expanding visa-free regimes could significantly develop tourism.

“Introducing visa-free travel with the majority of African countries could help develop tourism,” she said during a State Duma roundtable on tourism and cultural exchanges.

Draft agreements reportedly propose stays of up to 90 days in Zambia and around 30 days in Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Eswatini, pending finalization.

This move aligns with Russia’s broader efforts to strengthen non-Western partnerships amid restrictions on travel to some European destinations. The southern African region—home to iconic attractions like Victoria Falls (shared by Zambia and Zimbabwe), pristine beaches in Mozambique, and unique wildlife experiences—remains underrepresented among Russian outbound tourists compared to North Africa.

Here are stunning glimpses of the natural wonders that could soon draw more visitors from Russia:

These images showcase the majestic Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage site straddling Zambia and Zimbabwe, where mist rises dramatically from the Zambezi River, offering breathtaking views and adventure activities.

Mozambique’s coastline also promises idyllic escapes:

The initiative comes against a backdrop of tightened U.S. visa policies, including refundable bonds of up to $15,000 for citizens of numerous African countries (including Zambia and Zimbabwe) applying for B1/B2 visas, aimed at reducing overstays.

While the U.S. measures focus on compliance, Russia’s visa-free push is viewed as a way to facilitate easier people-to-people exchanges, business opportunities, and tourism in a region rich in natural and cultural heritage.

For global travelers, particularly from Africa and beyond, these developments signal increasing connectivity with Russia and highlight southern Africa’s untapped potential.

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Taste GH

The Timeless Appeal of Koose and Spiced Millet Koko

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Long before dawn breaks over Accra’s busy streets, the crackle of hot oil and the warm, sharp perfume of ginger and scotch bonnet chilies signal that koose is on the way.

Also known as akara across West Africa, this iconic bean fritter holds a special place in the rhythm of Ghanaian life, serving as an indispensable staple of morning routines and street-food culture.

While delicious on its own, koose reaches absolute perfection when paired with koko, a hot, aromatic millet porridge infused with cloves and black pepper.

The creamy, fiery porridge balances the crunchy fritters, creating a sensory experience that warms the soul and fuels the day.

Whether grabbed from a neighborhood street vendor or fried fresh at home, koose remains a timeless symbol of West African culinary comfort.

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Sights and Sounds

Why Bliss Family Entertainment Is Airport City’s Go-To Haven

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Just minutes from Kotoka International Airport on Airport Bypass Road, inside the historic Aviation Social Centre, sits a modern retreat from Accra’s tropical heat and bustling urban traffic.

Bliss Family Entertainment has quickly established itself as a premier indoor leisure hub, seamlessly bridging the gap between high-energy active recreation and relaxed social gatherings for locals, expats, and international travelers alike.

The climate-controlled center features an expansive lineup of activities tailored for diverse age groups. Visitors can challenge friends on a six-lane 10-pin bowling alley (GH¢125 per game) or let younger children try mini-bowling (GH¢100).

For thrill-seekers, a vibrant trampoline park provides high-bounce arenas (GH¢125 for under-12s, GH¢175 for ages 12+), while immersive Twin Battle VR setups (GH¢100) and an arcade stocked with over 20 games round out the technological play space. Younger guests can also enjoy gentle Teacup Spin rides.

What truly sets the venue apart is its integration of active gaming with local culinary culture. Instead of standard concession food, an on-site restaurant and bar serves authentic Ghanaian favorites, including Assorted Jollof (GH¢220), Goat Jollof (GH¢250), and Grilled Tilapia (GH¢250), alongside hearty stir-fried noodles and grilled meats.

Operating late into the night—from 12:00 PM to midnight Tuesday through Friday and 10:00 AM to midnight on weekends—the center provides an easy, safe space for family outings, weekend dates, and stress-relieving evening hangouts.

By combining modern recreational technology with rich local flavors, Bliss continues to set the benchmark for indoor family leisure in West Africa.

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Taste GH

Red Red: The Ghanaian Bean Dish That Wins Hearts One Bite at a Time

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There is something irresistible about a plate of Red Red—the rich crimson sauce, sweet golden plantain on the side, and the comforting aroma that fills the air long before the first bite.

One of Ghana’s most loved bean dishes, Red Red takes its name from its striking colour, created by ripe tomatoes and vibrant red palm oil.

The result is a hearty meal that balances deep, savoury flavours with a gentle sweetness, making it a favourite from bustling street food stalls to family dining tables.

At its heart are soft, slow-cooked black-eyed beans that soak up a fragrant tomato stew infused with onions and spices. The red palm oil adds an earthy richness and a distinctive aroma that gives the dish its unmistakable character.

Pair it with fried ripe plantains, and every mouthful becomes a satisfying contrast of creamy beans and caramelised sweetness.

Many Ghanaians complete the meal with a boiled or fried egg, turning an already generous dish into an even more filling feast.

Red Red has earned its place as more than comfort food. Beans provide plant-based protein and fibre, while tomatoes contribute vitamins and antioxidants. Red palm oil, used in moderation, also contains beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A.

Visitors discovering Ghanaian cuisine for the first time often remember Red Red because it feels both familiar and exciting.

It’s simple enough for home cooks to recreate, yet packed with flavours that reflect Ghana’s talent for transforming everyday ingredients into memorable meals.

Whether enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or as a satisfying weekend treat, Red Red remains one of the country’s proudest culinary classics.

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