Southern Africa

“To step into the role of president necessitates a gravitas not to be taken lightly; the aspirations of every Namibian rest upon my shoulders,” remarked Namibia's President-Elect, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, in a candid statement prior to her inauguration on March 21. Her words resonate like a clarion call, suggesting both the weight of responsibility and the promise of transformative leadership. Nandi-Ndaitwah recently addressed her staff at State House during a poignant farewell to outgoing president Nangolo Mbumba, and her…

The Complex Web of US-South Africa Relations: A Global Perspective It's intriguing how international relationships weave tales of intense scrutiny, debate, and emotions, isn't it? These complexities are vividly illustrated in the current dynamics between the United States and South Africa—a narrative that's as tangled as it is consequential. At the heart of this is the contentious issue of land reform policies in South Africa, which have stirred the waters of diplomacy and drawn a torrent of responses. The land reform in…

The road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup—set to unfold in the vibrant landscapes of the United States, Canada, and Mexico—has already seen four thrilling rounds of qualification matches. As we gear up for Match Day 5, anticipation builds with an array of compelling clashes on the horizon. On Wednesday, March 19, soccer enthusiasts can expect four captivating encounters. The spotlight will undoubtedly shine on Liberia, who will face Tunisia, the current frontrunners in Group H. This match presents an opportunity for Liberia to…

As the world spins on its axis, one truth remains unwavering: food has an unparalleled ability to forge connections. Be it through the chaotic charm of bustling street markets or the allure of an opulent dining room, culinary experiences continue to evolve and mesmerize. But in this whirlwind of flavors and aromas, where do we find the destinations that truly redefine our gastronomic adventures as of 2025? In a world that’s continuously embracing new tastes, Time Out offers a compass to navigate this vast…

Imagine waking up on a Sunday—coffee in hand, the day ahead open with possibilities—and finding out that a former President's social media has been hijacked. That's exactly what happened when Ghana’s ex-president, John Mahama, found his X account teeming with posts that were not his own. The situation unfolded with suspicious messages appearing, promoting a dubious project called “Solanafrica.” But have you ever wondered how often things like this actually happen? According to the President’s spokesperson, the breach…

Geopolitical Influence & Competition in Africa: A Modern Landscape In the intricate web of global politics, where would we be without the insightful reports that shape our understanding of geopolitical dynamics? Perhaps the Geopolitical Influence & Peace report is a case in point. It reveals how ideological chasms have widened among major global players. Countries like China and Russia are advocating for alternate governance models in stark contrast to the cherished ideals of liberal democracies.…

The Ripple Effect of the U.S. Aid Suspension on Global HIV Treatment Programs The recent announcement by the Trump administration, halting the flow of U.S. foreign aid, has sent ripples across the globe, particularly affecting the supply of HIV treatments in eight nations. The World Health Organization (WHO) has sounded the alarm, warning that the disruption could have dire consequences. Can we afford to overlook the implications of such a decision? Six of the affected countries are nestled…

Engaging with Science: Trust in African Nations Is the world losing faith in its scientists? Recent findings suggest otherwise, challenging the prevalent fear of a disconnect between scientific communities and society. Unveiling this narrative, a new study calls for a renewed effort to bridge any gap — especially through deeper engagement between scientists and the public. This intriguing study, published in the esteemed journal Nature Human Behaviour, emerges as part of the Trust in Science Project (TISP)…

The Legal and Environmental Odyssey of Elandsfontein Mine Nestled within the multifaceted landscape of South Africa, a tale unfolds that intertwines the pursuits of industry with the vigilance of environmental stewardship. At the center of this evolving saga is a $160 million phosphate mine, a venture under the aegis of African Rainbow Capital Investments Ltd. This endeavor is not merely an economic venture; it is part of a larger narrative driven by billionaire Patrice Motsepe, whose…

In a significant triumph for conservation efforts, BirdLife South Africa and the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) have successfully garnered a court-ordered settlement dedicated to the preservation of the critically endangered African Penguin. The settlement emphasizes the establishment of no-take fishing zones, a decisive step towards safeguarding not just a species, but an entire ecosystem. What does this order entail, you might wonder? It mandates the creation of no-take zones…