current events

The impact of recent funding cuts by the Trump administration reverberates through South Africa. Specifically, organisations benefitting from the PEPFAR (The President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief) initiative, which is funded through USAID, have received troubling news: their financial support has been terminated permanently. This development signifies a dramatic shift in the landscape of HIV prevention and treatment efforts across the nation. According to a report by Bhekisisa's Mia Malan, this grim notification is not…

On February 26, an unsettling clash erupted between the soldiers of the Armed Forces of Liberia and police officers, sending shockwaves through the streets of Monrovia. The incident unfolded at a checkpoint when a group of soldiers reportedly retaliated against police officers after several of their comrades, dressed in civilian clothing, were arrested and roughly handled. Panic ensued, casting a shadow over the day as bystanders watched the turmoil unfold. Both factions quickly summoned reinforcements, escalating tensions…

As the specter of strained trade relations looms over South Africa, a wave of uncertainty permeates the air. The United States, a significant player in global commerce, has hinted at severing vital economic ties, igniting anxiety among South African entrepreneurs and corporations alike. Is it time for Africa's most industrialized nation to brace itself for a seismic economic shift? This isn't merely theoretical speculation; it’s a scenario that resonates with real-world implications. Picture the bustling markets of…

The recent expulsion of French troops from Côte d'Ivoire signals a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape of West Africa. This move follows a similar withdrawal from Chad earlier this year and mirrors actions taken by Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso—countries that have exhibited a growing discontent with French military presence. Could this be the death knell for French influence in the Sahel region? To understand the implications of this trend, one must delve into the intricate tapestry of historical relations.…

As the vibrant pulse of Senegal quickens in anticipation, the countdown to the Youth Olympic Games has truly begun. Slated to unfold over the course of two exhilarating weeks from October 31 to November 15, 2026, this monumental event aims to unite approximately 2,700 young athletes from across the globe. Can you imagine the excitement coursing through the veins of these budding champions, all eager to display their talents on an international stage? This year is particularly significant, as it marks the first time an…

In a moment that could redefine Namibia's energy landscape, Gustos Energy has unveiled a substantial oil discovery off the country's coast. This find is not merely a drop in the ocean; rather, it solidifies the Orange Basin as a burgeoning hotspot for hydrocarbon exploration. As reports trickle in from the scene, there's an air of cautious optimism surrounding the implications of this mineral wealth. It's fascinating to witness how exploration efforts, which have unfolded over decades, have finally culminated in such a…

President Daniel Chapo firmly believes that the unrest following the contentious 2024 presidential election represents a resurgence of the insurgency in Cabo Delgado, a northern province of Mozambique. Here, Islamist factions have long waged a violent struggle against local security forces and regional allies. “These assaults are designed to foster chaos and deplete our vital mineral wealth,” Chapo remarked to diplomats on February 21, a conviction that underscores the high stakes involved for the nation. The aftermath of…

The humanitarian landscape in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is increasingly bleak as M23 rebel forces extend their reach across the eastern provinces. Goma, the capital of North Kivu, has been particularly hard-hit. Reports of criminal activities have skyrocketed, painting a harrowing picture for residents and aid workers alike. Home invasions, kidnappings, and vehicle thefts targeting humanitarian staff pose a dire challenge amid an already fragile situation. Consider for a moment the plight of a humanitarian…

In a significant gathering recently held in Lusaka, the capital of Zambia, leaders from various African air forces came together with a unified purpose: to bolster military aviation across national boundaries. The discussions primarily revolved around the increasingly complex dynamics of humanitarian crises and the essential role of disaster relief in addressing these challenges. As the world faces an array of trials—natural disasters, conflict, and pandemics—the discourse turned to how coordinated military efforts can serve…

The challenge of delivering sufficient surgical care in Sub-Saharan Africa is a multifaceted dilemma, stemming from a conspicuous lack of resources, technology, and expertise. An alarming projection suggests that by the year 2030, the continent could face a deficit of six million surgical care professionals. This staggering statistic was highlighted by Melody Chironda in her recent report from the Pan African Surgical Conference held in Kigali, Rwanda. Imagine traveling to a vibrant city in Africa, immersed in the…