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5 African Countries That Retained Their Colonial Names

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Names are an important part of who we are, and that is true for African countries with their names often reflecting history and culture.

Many African countries were once colonised by European powers, who named them during that time.

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Some countries changed their names after they became independent, choosing something that felt more connected to their identity. But other countries decided to keep the names from the colonial era.

Here are five African countries that retained their colonial names:

Nigeria

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The name Nigeria comes from the Niger River, which flows through the country. It was coined on January 8, 1897, by British journalist Flora Shaw. The neighbouring Republic of Niger also takes its name from the same river.

READ ALSO: Top 5 Countries In Africa Where Workers Earn Lowest Salaries

Nigeria gained partial self-governance in 1954 and full independence from the United Kingdom on October 1, 1960, as the Federation of Nigeria. Abubakar Tafawa Balewa became the country’s first Prime Minister, while Queen Elizabeth II remained the ceremonial head of state as Queen of Nigeria.

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Mali

Mali came under French colonial rule in 1892. By 1893, the French had appointed a civilian governor for the territory, known as Soudan Français (French Sudan), but resistance to their rule persisted. By 1905, most of the region was firmly under French control.
French Sudan was managed as part of the Federation of French West Africa and provided labour for France’s coastal colonies. In 1958, the territory, now called the Sudanese Republic, gained complete internal autonomy and joined the French Community. In early 1959, the Sudanese Republic and Senegal formed the Federation of Mali. On March 31, 1960, France agreed to grant the Federation of Mali full independence. On June 20, 1960, the Federation of Mali became an independent nation, with Modibo Keïta as its first president.

READ ALSO: Top 10 Countries In Africa With Largest Debts In Mid-2024

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Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone, a country in West Africa, got its name from 15th-century Portuguese explorer Pedro de Sintra, who was the first European to map Freetown harbor. The original Portuguese name “Serra Lyoa” (meaning “Lion Mountains”) referred to the hills surrounding the harbor. On April 27, 1961, Sierra Leone gained independence from British colonial rule. The Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP) won the general elections in 1962, with the All People’s Congress (APC) emerging as the primary opposition party.

Guinea

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Guinea officially gained independence from France on October 2, 1958, after a referendum on the French Fifth Republic’s constitution on September 28 of that year. Ahmed Sékou Touré, a member of the Malinké ethnic group and a leftist leader, was appointed the first president by the Constituent Assembly.
The country is named after the Guinea region, which extends from the Gulf of Guinea into tropical forested areas and reaches the Sahel. The term “Guinea” comes from the Portuguese word “Guiné,” which emerged in the 15th century to describe lands inhabited by African people south of the Senegal River.
In 1978, Guinea’s official name changed to the People’s Revolutionary Republic of Guinea, and in 1984, after the death of Sékou Touré, the country was renamed the Republic of Guinea.

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Cameroon

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The area now known as Cameroon was originally called “Rio dos Camarões” (River of Prawns) by Portuguese explorers in the 15th century, due to the large number of shrimp they found in the Wouri River. This name evolved into “Cameroon” during British and French colonial rule. In 1884, the region became a German colony known as Kamerun.
After World War I, it was divided between France and the United Kingdom under League of Nations mandates, with France governing 4/5 of the territory and the UK administering the remaining 1/5.
Cameroon gained independence from France in 1960 and from the UK in 1961.

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Trump Says Putin ‘Playing With Fire’ In New Jab At Russian Leader

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US President Donald Trump warned Vladimir Putin Tuesday that he was “playing with fire,” launching a fresh broadside at his Russian counterpart over stalled Ukraine peace efforts.

Trump’s latest comments came after he called the Kremlin leader “CRAZY” over the weekend following a mass Russian air attack on Kyiv, and warned that Moscow risked new sanctions.

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“What Vladimir Putin doesn’t realise is that if it weren’t for me, lots of really bad things would have already happened to Russia, and I mean REALLY BAD,” Trump said on his Truth Social network Tuesday.

“He’s playing with fire!”

Trump did not specify what the “really bad” things were or make any specific threats.

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REA ALSO: Trump Revokes Harvard University’s Right To Enroll Foreign Students

But the Wall Street Journal and CNN both reported that Trump was now considering fresh sanctions against Russia as early as this week, while stressing that he could still change his mind.

Trump had told reporters on Sunday he was “absolutely” considering increasing sanctions on Moscow.

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The US president’s recent rebukes mark a major change from his previous attitude towards Putin, whom he often speaks of with admiration and has previously held off criticising.

Trump has, however, expressed increasing frustration with Moscow’s position in deadlocked truce negotiations with Kyiv.

READ ALSO: S/African President Meets Trump Over Rising Tensions

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That frustration boiled over at the weekend when Russia launched a record drone barrage at Ukraine, killing at least 13 people.

“I’ve always had a very good relationship with Vladimir Putin of Russia, but something has happened to him. He has gone absolutely CRAZY!” Trump said in a Truth Social post on Sunday night.

Russia’s attacks have continued despite a phone call between Trump and Putin eight days ago in which the US leader said the Russian president had agreed to “immediately” start ceasefire talks.

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Moscow on Tuesday accused Kyiv of trying to “disrupt” peace efforts and said its aerial assaults on Ukraine in recent days were a “response” to escalating Ukrainian drone strikes on its own civilians.

AFP

 

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Check Out World’s Richest King With 38 Private Jets, 300 Cars, 52 Golden Boats

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While there are countless billionaires around the world, few match the regal wealth and extravagant lifestyle of King Maha Vajiralongkorn of Thailand—better known as King Rama X. According to The Business Standard, he is considered the richest king in the world, with a staggering estimated net worth of Rs 3.7 lakh crore (approximately USD 43 billion).

Unlike typical billionaires, King Vajiralongkorn’s wealth is rooted in centuries-old royal lineage and further amplified by modern investments. His fortune, inherited largely after the passing of his father King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 2016, has since been expanded through stakes in Thailand’s major companies and real estate holdings.

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The monarch owns over 17,000 properties in Bangkok alone, making him one of the largest landowners in the country. His luxury collection includes over 300 high-end cars, 38 private jets, and a fleet of 52 golden boats, which are used exclusively for royal ceremonies and reflect the opulence of Thailand’s monarchy.

Born in 1952, Vajiralongkorn is the only son of King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit. He received military education in the UK and Australia and is a trained jet and helicopter pilot. He graduated from the University of New South Wales with a degree in military studies and served in the Royal Thai Army, even taking part in anti-insurgency operations during the 1970s.

READ ALSO: King Charles III Hospitalized Amid Cancer Battle, Pulls Out Of Royal Engagements

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Despite his controversial personal life, including four marriages and frequent media scrutiny, King Vajiralongkorn remains a dominant symbol of Thailand’s royal legacy, luxury, and power.

Meanwhile, in India, Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani continue to dominate the billionaire charts. As of May 2025, Ambani, with an estimated net worth of USD 92.5 billion, holds the title of India’s richest person. Adani follows with USD 56.3 billion, with investments spanning energy, ports, and infrastructure.

In contrast to corporate billionaires, King Vajiralongkorn stands out not only for his immense wealth but also for a lifestyle that rivals any global celebrity or monarch.

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Source: Financial Express

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Top 10 Courses To Study In Germany For High Employment Opportunities

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Here are 10 of the best courses to study in Germany—and why they stand out

Germany continues to attract international students with its tuition-free or low-cost public universities, globally respected degrees, and strong career prospects.

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With world-class infrastructure and many programs taught in English, Germany has become a go-to destination for higher education.

Here are 10 of the best courses to study in Germany—and why they stand out:

1. Mechanical Engineering

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Germany is a global hub for mechanical innovation, home to industry giants like BMW, Siemens, and Bosch. Programs emphasize research, design, and real-world applications, making graduates highly sought-after in Europe and beyond.

READ ALSO:10 Countries With Multiple Capital Cities

2. Computer Science & IT

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With a growing tech ecosystem, Germany offers excellent opportunities in AI, cybersecurity, and software development. Universities partner with startups and multinationals, giving students hands-on experience and strong job placement.

3. Business Administration & Management

Germany’s powerful economy and strategic location in Europe make it ideal for studying business. Courses blend theory and practice, often including internships with global firms in finance, marketing, or consulting.

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4. Electrical Engineering

This field powers Germany’s energy transition and automation advancements. Programs focus on electronics, robotics, and renewable energy systems, preparing graduates for high-tech careers with competitive salaries.

5. Medicine & Healthcare

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Germany offers rigorous medical training with strong clinical exposure. Though most programs require German proficiency, the high demand for doctors and healthcare professionals makes this a promising path with excellent job security.

READ ALSO:5 Asian Countries Nigerians Can Visit Without A Visa

6. Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning

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Germany is investing heavily in AI across sectors like finance, logistics, and health. These courses, often housed in computer science faculties, provide research-driven education with pathways into cutting-edge tech roles.

7. Automotive Engineering

Study in the birthplace of Mercedes, Porsche, and Volkswagen. Courses emphasize vehicle design, sustainability, and automation, with direct pipelines into internships and jobs in the thriving German auto industry.

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8. Environmental Engineering

Germany’s leadership in renewable energy and sustainability makes this a timely field. Programs focus on waste management, water treatment, and climate solutions—ideal for those passionate about environmental change.

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9. Architecture

Combining history with innovation, Germany offers a dynamic environment for aspiring architects. Courses often highlight green design, urban planning, and energy-efficient construction, preparing students for the global market.

10. Psychology

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Mental health is gaining attention worldwide, and Germany is no exception. With a focus on clinical and organizational psychology, these programs open doors to healthcare, HR, education, and research roles.

 

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