Stories about Sub-Saharan Africa from August, 2023
Elections and Power Dynamics in Zimbabwe
Emmerson Mnangagwa was re-elected as president in an election that has been called "blatant and massive fraud" by the opposition.
A Mauritanian high school student faces the death penalty over blasphemy
The gravity of the situation cannot be underestimated, as she now faces the possibility of severe punishment, including the death penalty, under Article 306 of the Mauritanian Penal Code.
Navigating the boundaries of free speech: Nigeria’s Twitter ban
While governments have a legitimate interest in addressing the spread of misinformation and promoting online safety, there may be more effective solutions than outright bans on social media platforms.
PhD student from Gabon killed in Russia's fourth largest city
PhD student from Gabon François Ndzhelassili was murdered in Yekaterinburg, in what appears to be a racially motivated killing at a time when Putin has turned to the Global South in search of support.
Writer suffers threats and intimidation in Mozambique after book publication
The author revealed that he was being threatened anonymously by people who thought that a book with such a title should not be released.
Madagascar to host the 2023 Indian Ocean Island Games
However, Malagasy national pride appears to have been overshadowed. The government announced that the games' opening and closing ceremonies would be led by Chinese choreographers.
Young people have increasing role ahead of Senegal's presidential elections: Interview with Gilles Yabi
After the incumbent president announced he would not seek reelection, Senegalese young people mobilize ahead of the 2024 presidential elections.
Which African countries may join the BRICS group of nations, and why do they want to?
"Economic considerations, with BRICS countries constituting a significant portion of global GDP, offer expansive trade and investment opportunities for African economies ... [and] can attract direct foreign investment, technological advancement, and bolster export capabilities."
Museveni challenges World Bank's decision on loan suspension over anti-LGBTQ+ law in Uganda
"Uganda's defiance in the face of international pressure over this law reveals the complexities of balancing national sovereignty with global human rights standards."
Digital activist discusses why native Yoruba speakers should embrace their Indigenous language in online spaces
Many people are beginning to forget all the rich cultural and historical aspects of Yoruba. If the language is to thrive, its culture and identity must be visible.
African institutions maintain silence on sub-Saharan migrant rights abuses in Tunisia
Despite a number of documented fatalities, African institutions concerned with transcontinental migration issues remain silent on the treatment of Sub-Saharan migrants in Tunisia.
Unraveling the crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights in several African countries
It is crucial to foster a nuanced understanding of LGBTQ+ rights advocacy that respects cultural diversity while upholding the principles of human rights and equality.
African perspectives: the role of artificial intelligence in journalism
In an interview with Global Voices, African journalists shared their views on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in journalism on this continent.
Has digital media influenced environmentally sustainable practices in Nigeria?
Only three states in Nigeria, compared to seven in 2021, are environmentally clean. This underscores the need for a deeper sense of responsibility and awareness about sustainable practices among citizens.
‘My art is a tribute to my origins and childhood': An interview with Burkina Faso-born artist Saïdou Dicko
'Drawing inspiration from his early years as a shepherd in Burkina Faso, Dicko's artistic prowess blossoms against the backdrop of Sahelian landscapes.'
Why Ghanaian women are struggling to breastfeed their babies for the recommended six months
" ... [T]he promotion of breastfeeding isn't just a decision; it's one of the most astute investments a nation can undertake to construct its forthcoming prosperity.'
Africa reimagined: Burkina Faso's Ibrahim Traoré advocates for resilience, recognition, and resistance
A call for a future where "Africa is no longer subjected to external exploitation, but instead stands strong as a federation of self-reliant, resilient nations, recognized equitably and globally."
Unfreedom Monitor: Civic Media Observatory findings report
The Unfreedom Monitor is a project to analyse, document, and report on the growing phenomenon of the use of digital communications technology to advance authoritarian practices.
Why West Africa civil society organizations are urging ECOWAS to prioritize disability inclusion
Disability inclusion in Africa is not only a matter of social justice; it is imperative for sustainable development and growth.
Creating awareness is a crucial step to breaking the stigma of infertility in Africa
"Though experienced by both men and women, the cultural and social landscape of the continent often exacerbates the challenges faced by women struggling with infertility."
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