Southern Africa

Across the African continent, a multitude of national squads are engaged in a thrilling round of qualifying matches, all vying for a coveted spot at the continent's premier soccer showcase, the African Cup of Nations, set to unfold in vibrant Morocco. This Tuesday promises a crucial clash as Nigeria's renowned Super Eagles aim for early qualification from Group D, facing off against the formidable Mediterranean Knights, Libya. Yet, not all’s smooth for the Nigerian team; certain officials have hinted at a potential boycott…

In South Africa, the battle for women's rights has reached a new crescendo, with dedicated activists rallying against the anticipated performance of the controversial U.S. artist, Chris Brown. The advocacy group, Women For Change, has initiated a petition aimed at urging both the government and concert promoters to reevaluate the decision to host him in December. The petition articulates a clear demand: the Department of Home Affairs should revoke Brown's visa, thereby preventing him from entering the country altogether.…

Zimbabwe has recently confirmed its inaugural two cases of mpox, coming on the heels of Zambia’s declaration of its own first instance of the disease. While the specific strains of the virus in Zimbabwe remain unidentified, it appears that the individuals who tested positive either traveled to or made visits from Tanzania and South Africa. Just days prior, Zambia reported its initial mpox case, although the particulars about the viral strain were not disclosed. The health ministry of Zambia revealed that a 32-year-old…

Tributes are flooding in for Tito Mboweni, the former Governor of the Reserve Bank and South Africa's Labour and Finance Minister, who sadly passed away following a brief illness. He was 65 years old. Mboweni's political journey began in South Africa’s first democratically elected Cabinet, where he held the position of Minister of Labour from 1994 to 1999. He later took the helm as the Governor of the South African Reserve Bank, serving from 1999 until 2009. His tenure in government culminated in his role as Minister of…

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has opted not to pursue charges against President Cyril Ramaphosa or anyone involved in the Phala Phala affair, which originated from a criminal complaint lodged by former intelligence official Arthur Fraser back in 2022. Known colloquially as "Farmgate," the controversy erupted when Fraser accused Ramaphosa of covering up the theft of $4 million after a burglary at the president's Phala Phala game farm. The president firmly rejected these allegations, asserting that the funds taken…

A trio of fascinating new marine species has recently been unearthed within the extraordinary waters of South Africa, influenced by the intricate dance of the Benguela and Agulhas currents. These discoveries include the charming "walking sponge" (Suberites ambulodomos), a minuscule clam (Brachiomya ducentiunus), and an elusive parasitic isopod (Pseudionella pumulaensis). Jannes Landschoff provided these insights in an article for The Conversation Africa. Though these organisms may be diminutive, their impact on marine…

In recent days, a passionate group of environmental advocates filled the streets of Sandton and Cape Town, South Africa, making a resounding call for a boycott of an event known as Africa Energy Week, or Africa Oil Week, happening in Cape Town this week. Following a protest in Cape Town that drew inspiration from horror themes, activist Lisa Makaula had a conversation with Bush Radio’s Renato van Schalkwyk. Makaula emphasized the urgent need for the government to pivot its investments towards renewable energy sources,…

In a significant turn of events, the former Chief Financial Officer of Steinhoff, Ben la Grange, has been handed a prison sentence of 10 years, with half of that time suspended. This sentence comes after La Grange pleaded guilty to a singular fraud charge linked to a staggering amount of R367 million. The stipulation for the suspended sentence mandates that La Grange must stay clear of any future fraud convictions during this period. Additionally, he is required to serve as a witness for the state in any upcoming…

AllAfrica proudly presents its latest creative endeavor: an eight-part podcast series titled "Wild Basil." This captivating series showcases remarkable women who have made significant strides in fostering peace and facilitating development through innovative endeavors in biodiversity and conservation throughout Southern Africa, including nations such as Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Angola, Botswana, and South Africa. Isn’t it curious how most podcasts that celebrate extraordinary accomplishments often spotlight men? The…

Authorities have taken one individual into custody for interrogation regarding the tragic mass shooting in Lusikisiki, in which 18 lives were lost in the Eastern Cape. This horrific incident unfolded at a homestead within Ngobozana village, where a family was in the midst of preparing for a traditional ritual. This ceremony was designed to signify the conclusion of a mourning period for a mother and daughter who had been tragically killed in August of the previous year. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his…