The repression of ideas is under “widespread assault,” according to a new United Nations report on freedom of expression that finds mature democracies and developing nations alike are silencing dissent – and treating words as weapons – to suppress the free exchange of information and ideas. Internet shutdowns from Uganda…
“Has Africa even come up in this debate?” That’s what one person weighing in on social media wanted to know, and he wasn’t the only one to notice the absence of discussion about African nations and foreign policy during the final U.S. presidential debate. Watching in the wee hours, some…
U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon is urging the Ethiopian government to ensure “the protection of fundamental human rights,” the AP reports. A Ban spokesman said Monday the Secretary General “reiterates his call for calm” and urges inclusive dialogue in Ethiopia. The United States also has expressed its concern over Ethiopia’s…
The Zambian government began Wednesday to send food relief to neighboring Malawi and Zimbabwe, in an effort to address food shortages in the drought-stricken nations of southern Africa. Shipment of the 48,000 metric tons of maize is part of a USD$2.4 billion humanitarian response coordinated through the Southern African Development…
Student protests in South Africa escalated on Monday as both the University of Pretoria and nearby Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) were forced to suspend classes and close their doors. The day began with tires burned on the main TUT campus as students continued protests over high tuition and fees,…
Morocco has submitted an official request to join the African Union (AU), more than four decades after leaving the AU over the disputed Western Sahara territory and ongoing clashes over its sovereignty. Moroccan foreign affairs adviser Taieb Fassi Fihri, meeting Thursday with AU Commission Chairperson Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, told…
Egyptian authorities said Friday that nearly 150 bodies have been recovered since a migrant boat capsized this week in the Mediterranean Sea after leaving the port city of Damietta. The accident adds to the rising 2016 death toll for migrants traveling through North Africa to Italy on the Central Mediterranean…
Juncker announces new EU Investment Plan for Africa The president of the European Commission announced plans Wednesday for a new Investment Plan for Africa with the potential to raise up to €88 billion. The plan to support African economic growth will use public funding to attract additional public and private…
President of Kenya Uhuru Kenyatta visited Israel in recent days amidst much talk of deepening engagement between Israel and wider Africa. The demonstrates the potential for a strong future between the two nations that already shares a storied past. As with Kenya, Israel’s relationship with a number of African nations is traced back…
The Burundi crisis remains one of chief concerns for fellow African nations, as well deep diplomatic engagement from United Nations. Intent on winning a peaceful resolution in the East African nation, the UN has achieved agreement from Burundian President Pierre Nkurunziza’s in recent days to release over 2000 prisoners and…
Desiree Nwaobasi grew up in Dakar, Senegal where his Nigerian parents earnt their living. As a young boy, he lived in a difficult environment like many African youths, yet he is no regular joe. While many complain of Africa’s difficult environment, Desiree sees his childhood as an interesting experience that…
Erukilede Julius is a legal practitioner, entrepreneur and energy professional.
John Pombe Magufuli earned a doctorate in Chemistry from the University of Dar es Salaam in 2009 and five years later became president of Tanzania. He has since impressed many, including his former critics with his hands on leadership style in the East African nation. “I will fight corruption without fear or favor; I will…
Diana Taremwa Karakire is a freelance journalist based in Uganda.
It is no longer news that Nigeria is the biggest market in Africa. Over the past few years, the economy grew at a pace that defied many economic indices to walk the ladder as the number one economy in Africa. However, in recent months, the chicken has come to roast….
Erukilede Julius is a legal practitioner, entrepreneur and energy professional.
Africa is heading into an age in which it could potentially “leapfrog into the digital revolution” setting up the continent for major future success and prosperity. The fact that the continent now has access to new and exciting technologies could enable young visionaries to spring into a time of digital…
“In a country where armed groups routinely prey on civilians, peacekeepers should be protectors, not predators,” Hillary Margolis said, women’s rights researcher at Human Rights Watch (HRW). According to a HRW press release eight women and girls were raped or sexually exploited in the Central African Republic (CAR) by United…