governance

Even after the United States bolstered its sanctions against President Emmerson Mnangagwa and several officials earlier this year, the new American envoy to Zimbabwe has emphasized that the U.S. remains committed to nurturing the country’s democratic frameworks. During a discussion with Parliament Speaker Jacob Mudenda, Ambassador Pamela Tremont illuminated the necessity for enhancing the country's institutions. Back in March, a communiqué from the U.S. Embassy articulated that the adjusted sanctions imposed on Zimbabwean…

With the presidential election in Tunisia approaching in October, there’s a palpable tightening of the reins on dissent, particularly within the media, warns Bassam Khawaja, Deputy Director for the Middle East and North Africa at Human Rights Watch. He pointed out that at least five journalists find themselves incarcerated, simply for expressing their viewpoints. “This crackdown is systematically erasing criticism and stifling diverse opinions across Tunisia’s media landscape,” Khawaja noted. He elaborated that meaningful…

Prolonged bouts of torrential rain in Monrovia have led to devastating floods throughout the city, forcing tens of thousands from their homes, as reported by the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA). Monrovia's vulnerability to flooding stems from several issues, including dense population, an inadequate sewage system, and a lack of stringent construction regulations. According to Ansu Dulleh, the Executive Director of the NDMA, the extent of the flooding is "something we have never seen before." This calamity has…

As Africa grapples with the rising financial toll of climate change, accessing climate finance becomes vital for both addressing these challenges and adapting to them. Moreover, it's essential for steering the continent's development in line with the global aim of capping temperature increases to 1.5°C.  African representatives face a pivotal moment at COP29 in Azerbaijan, where they are encouraged to push for fair climate finance allocation for their continent. A new financing strategy is anticipated to be established by a…

The literary world is mourning the loss of the illustrious Struggle poet, esteemed publisher, and gifted writer James Matthews, who peacefully passed away in his sleep at his Cape Town residence. He graced us with his presence for 95 remarkable years. Matthews's poignant poetry faced banishment under the oppressive apartheid regime, exposing him to relentless intimidation, arbitrary arrests, and the stifling of his artistic expression. His work vividly echoed the hardships and realities faced by Cape Town’s marginalized…

A prominent rights organization has urged the Tunisian government to halt prosecutions rooted in political motives and ensure the upcoming elections uphold principles of fairness and integrity. This organization has disclosed that authorities have "prosecuted, convicted, or imprisoned" a minimum of eight potential candidates ahead of the presidential election scheduled for October 6. Notably, the electoral commission has sanctioned only three candidates, one of whom is the current President, Kais Saied. "By incarcerating…

In an unexpected turn of events, former President Ian Khama has returned to Botswana after almost three years spent in voluntary exile. His comeback comes at a tumultuous time, as he confronts a staggering 14 charges, including unlawful firearm possession and allegations of money laundering. Khama, who now heads a splinter opposition party known as the Botswana Patriotic Front (BPF), staunchly refutes these accusations. He maintains that they are rooted in political vendettas rather than factual misconduct. Khama’s…

Algerians living overseas have started to exercise their right to vote as they prepare for the presidential elections happening this Saturday. Despite the enthusiasm of expatriates, there's a prevailing expectation of a dismal voter turnout within Algeria itself, coupled with predictions leaning towards the probable re-election of the current president, Abdelmadjid Tebboune. On another front, the situation in Algeria remains tense. Authorities have ramped up their efforts to clamp down on civil liberties, targeting…

In recent weeks, a troubling wave of violence has swept through Cameroonian journalism, as reporters find themselves under siege. Armed assailants wielding rifles and machetes have launched "brutal attacks" against them, an alarming development coming just ahead of the impending presidential election scheduled for next year. President Paul Biya, who has held sway over the nation for more than 40 years, has yet to declare his intentions regarding another term, but pressure from his supporters to continue his reign is…

A deluge of unforgettable events unfurled as the Alau Dam swelled beyond its limits, unleashing torrents of water that wreaked havoc in the surrounding areas. The aftermath was catastrophic; entire communities were forced to abandon their homes. Close to Sanda Kyarimi Park, authorities issued urgent evacuation notices as dangerous wildlife—specifically reptiles—spilled out from a nearby zoo, seeking refuge from the inundation. Local residents reported sightings of various snakes and even crocodiles navigating the…