governance

Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi, South Africa’s Minister of Health, recently urged nations to rethink their health resource allocations, strengthen collaborative global initiatives, and investigate innovative financial frameworks. As daunting as the post-pandemic landscape is, his call for action resonates deeply amidst unraveling healthcare systems worldwide. During the G20 Health Working Group convened in the scenic coastal town of Ballito, Motsoaledi articulated a vision not just for South Africa but for the global community. He…

Jigjiga, Ethiopia — In a time of mounting political tensions, Mustafa Muhumed Omar, the steadfast President of Ethiopia’s Somali Region, has vowed to expand government services. This declaration arrives amidst mounting pressure and critiques from the Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF), who claim the administration is underperforming. "Are we, as leaders, meeting the expectations set upon us?" President Cagjar’s administration grapples with this very question.

Mr. Zane Dangor, South Africa's G20 Sherpa and Director-General of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, recently found himself amidst the bustling halls of the United Nations in New York. His presence there was prompted by an invitation from the President of the General Assembly, offering him a platform to delineate South Africa’s priorities as it assumes the G20 Presidency. With earnest conviction, Mr. Dangor spoke of a theme deeply rooted in South Africa’s ethos—“Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability.”…

In a notable shift within Zimbabwe's political landscape, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has named General Anselem Sanyatwe, formerly the commander of the Zimbabwe National Army, as the new sports minister. This decision comes in the wake of Kirsty Coventry’s recent election as president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), a role that necessitated her resignation from the ministerial post. Coventry’s transition to this prestigious position in Lausanne, the city synonymous with the Olympic movement, speaks volumes…

In a recent development in Nigerian politics, the Senate ethics committee has dismissed a poignant petition brought forth by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The petition accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of severe allegations, including sexual harassment, abuse of office, and impediments to legislative duties. The committee's ruling hinged on a critical point: the case is currently under judicial consideration. The atmosphere during the hearing was far from serene. Representing the suspended Senator…

As South Africa prepares to step onto the world stage, it has officially assumed the Presidency of the G20, paving the way for the highly anticipated Johannesburg Summit, set for November 22-23, 2025. This event promises to be pivotal, not just for the nation, but for the broader global community as well. President Cyril Ramaphosa, during the inaugural gathering of Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors, eloquently articulated a vision for progress: "For nations to flourish, equality and prosperity must be available to…

On the horizon, South Africans face yet another financial challenge. With already precarious economic conditions, the impending electricity price increase of 12.7% slated for April 1, 2025—dubbed "Fossil Fools' Day" by the environmental group Earthlife Africa—has sent shockwaves through households already struggling to make ends meet. When combined with the anticipated 0.5% hike in VAT, families will be forced to grapple with excruciating choices: Should they pay for electricity or for essentials like food and medicine?…

In a recent announcement, the World Health Organization (WHO) has revealed the contenders for the highly sought-after position of Regional Director for Africa. This revelation comes in the wake of the untimely passing of Dr. Faustine Ndugulile, a distinguished Tanzanian public health expert, who was poised to assume the role in November 2024. Tanzania has formally nominated Professor Mohamed Janabi, an esteemed cardiologist and health advisor to President Samia Suluhu Hassan. His expansive experience and deep-rooted…

A recent investigation conducted by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) sheds light on a complex web of challenges facing the Sahel region. The study indicates that, while a direct link between climate change and terrorism may not be readily apparent, the effects of climate change on agricultural production and natural resource distribution can set the stage for local conflicts. These disruptions, stemming from shifting weather patterns, often lead communities to compete fiercely for essential resources. Consider, for…

A delegation from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has recently arrived in Liberia, aiming to mediate a protracted conflict among lawmakers surrounding the potential removal of Speaker Fonati Koffa. This mission follows a previous attempt by ECOWAS that yielded minimal progress, leaving many to ponder: can diplomacy still prevail in such a charged political landscape? The current delegation is set to engage with a variety of stakeholders, including President Joseph Boakai and members of the National…