In South Africa, wind turbine projects on the border of a large national park are facing fierce resistance. The turbines could disrupt communication among elephants and make them aggressive, according to local concerns.

Wind turbine projects on the border of a large national park in South Africa are facing fierce resistance due to concerns that they could disrupt communication among elephants and make them aggressive. Patricia Huon, reporting from Addo National Park, relays the distress of Joe Manjoko, who views the turbines as a monstrosity.

Nearly ten years after the murder of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp, former South African Paralympic champion Oscar Pistorius was released from prison on January 5. The case highlights issues of femicide and domestic violence, with Pistorius having shot Steenkamp through a bathroom door, claiming he mistook her for an intruder. Initially convicted of culpable homicide, his sentence was later increased to murder by the Supreme Court in 2017, resulting in over 13 years of detention. Pistorius's release after serving half his sentence has been met with criticism from those fighting impunity for violence against women in South Africa. While in prison, Pistorius lived in a facility suited for disabled inmates and will remain under surveillance for six years, with conditions including therapy and anger management training.

Zeinab Yacoub, a former student from El-Geneina in Sudan's Darfur region, recounts the dire conditions faced by Sudanese refugees in Chad. Fleeing the war-torn region, she now resides in a makeshift shelter in a large refugee camp in eastern Chad with her two daughters. The article highlights the severe humanitarian crisis, emphasizing the lack of safety in Sudan and the refugees' desperate need for basic necessities.

In the upscale neighborhood of Houghton, a suburb of Johannesburg where Nelson Mandela lived until his death, one of his former residences was transformed two years ago into a luxury guest house.

Julius Malema and his Economic Freedom Fighters party presented a motion to close the Israeli embassy in South Africa, supported by the ruling ANC with an amendment to keep diplomatic channels open if a ceasefire in Gaza is achieved. President Cyril Ramaphosa, who has shown solidarity with Palestinians and accused Israel of war crimes, will review Parliament's position. Israel had already recalled its ambassador for consultation.

South African scientists are nearing a breakthrough in becoming self-sufficient in vaccine development, despite patent-related obstacles. In Cape Town, new laboratories and storage facilities for super-freezers are being constructed as part of an ambitious project to create Africa's first mRNA vaccine. The pressure is high, but the scientists remain enthusiastic about their progress.

In 2013, Islamist groups threatened to burn the ancient manuscripts of Timbuktu, highlighting their value. Residents secretly transported thousands of these documents to Bamako for safekeeping. To protect and eventually return them to Timbuktu, a new curriculum was established at the Institut des hautes études et de recherches islamiques Ahmed Baba, focusing on the conservation and digitization of these manuscripts. Supported by the United Nations Mission in Mali, this initiative aims to professionalize book-related skills and combat unemployment, thereby reducing extremist recruitment. The program has modern equipment for dating and preserving manuscripts, and the first cohort of students will graduate at the end of the academic year. This effort helps young Malians reconnect with their cultural roots and preserve their heritage.

In the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, the North Kivu region is experiencing severe violence, leading to a humanitarian crisis marked by cholera outbreaks, mutilations, and a surge in refugees. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is struggling to manage the influx of new patients, with war surgeons like Carina Gianserra working tirelessly to treat the injured. Robert Mardini, the ICRC director, recently visited the area to assess the situation.

In Eastern Congo, a forgotten conflict is wreaking havoc on the civilian population. Robert Mardini, director of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), visited North Kivu, which is experiencing a surge in violence. Humanitarians are struggling to cope with cholera, mutilations, and refugees. Carina Gianserra, a war surgeon, describes the relentless influx of new patients and the frequent need for urgent surgeries, including many amputations.

Jacob Zuma, the former South African president, has been suspended from the ANC. In December, he announced the formation of a new party, uMkhonto we Sizwe (MK), which adopts the name of the ANC's former armed wing that fought against apartheid. This new political formation positions itself as a more radical alternative to the current ANC.

With the military's return to power in Sudan, the democrats who had overthrown the dictatorship in 2019 are resuming their struggle. However, the hope of the revolution has turned into bitterness. In the northern suburbs of Khartoum, a small group of protesters express their frustration, highlighting the ongoing resistance despite the challenges.

Tens of thousands of Sudanese are fleeing the fighting in Darfur to seek refuge in Chad. The power struggle in Khartoum is reigniting the country's ethnic fractures. Yaya Adam Mohamed, a man in his sixties, shares his experience of having to flee once again, expressing fatigue and uncertainty about the situation in Khartoum.

South African scientists are nearing a breakthrough in achieving self-sufficiency in vaccine development despite patent-related obstacles. In Cape Town, new laboratories and storage facilities for ultra-cold freezers are being constructed as part of an ambitious project to create the continent's first mRNA vaccine. The pressure is high, but the scientists remain enthusiastic.

A Somali dentist, Abdulkadir Adan, has established Aamin Ambulance, the country's first and only free ambulance service, driven by his mission to save lives and serve his people amidst the challenges of misery and attacks in Mogadishu.

In Mali, dance is being used as a therapeutic tool to address and heal from violence against women and girls. Fatoumata Bagayoko, a dedicated dancer, leads this initiative by creating a safe space for expression and discussion on issues like genital mutilation and rape. Despite the lack of legal protections against such practices, Bagayoko's efforts aim to empower young women, helping them to share their stories and build confidence. The initiative also seeks to raise public awareness and foster societal change through performances that highlight these critical issues.

Aamin Ambulances, the largest free ambulance service in Mogadishu, operates on a shoestring budget, funded by Somali businesspeople and well-wishers. Founded by Abdulkadir Abdirahman Adan, a former dentist, the service has grown from a single second-hand minivan to a fleet of 16 vehicles. The service is crucial in a city plagued by violence from al-Shabab and high levels of poverty, malnutrition, and maternal mortality. Despite the risks and financial challenges, the volunteer drivers and medics remain dedicated to saving lives. The article highlights the personal sacrifices and challenges faced by the staff, particularly Sabir Rashid, who was seriously injured in a bombing.

The article explores how Sudanese warlord Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, known as Hemetti, has managed to position himself as a key political figure in Sudan despite his controversial role in the ongoing conflict. Hemetti's forces, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), are engaged in a violent struggle against the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) led by General Abdel Fattah al-Bourhan. Despite accusations of war crimes, Hemetti has cultivated relationships with Western diplomats, presenting himself as a proponent of democracy and a counter to Islamist forces. The article highlights the complex dynamics of international diplomacy, with Western countries maintaining discreet contact with Hemetti due to strategic interests, particularly concerning migration and regional stability. Hemetti's efforts to gain legitimacy have been supported by public relations campaigns, although his ambitions have been challenged by the conflict he helped instigate.

The European Union's cooperation with Sudanese autocrats, particularly through the Khartoum Process, has had unintended and severe consequences, including empowering militia leaders like Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo. The EU's focus on externalizing its borders to manage migration has led to opaque financial dealings and partnerships with regimes accused of human rights abuses. Despite official denials, there are strong suspicions and evidence of EU support indirectly benefiting repressive Sudanese forces. The article highlights the complex and often troubling dynamics of international migration policies and their local impacts.

Abdulkadir Adan, a Somali dentist, founded Aamin Ambulance, the first and only free ambulance service in Somalia, driven by his mission to save lives and prevent avoidable deaths. The article highlights the challenging conditions in Mogadishu and the critical role of Aamin Ambulance in providing essential healthcare services amidst ongoing conflict.

As clashes between military forces in Khartoum escalate, severe violence has erupted in Darfur, leading to a humanitarian crisis with thousands fleeing to Chad. In El Geneina, West Darfur, nearly 200 people have been killed, and essential services have been disrupted. Refugees in Chad face dire conditions, with limited resources and increasing malnutrition. The conflict, rooted in historical ethnic tensions and power struggles between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, threatens to destabilize the region further. The international community's wavering attention has exacerbated the situation, with local and international organizations struggling to provide adequate aid.

In recent weeks, 60,000 Sudanese refugees have arrived in neighboring Chad, according to the United Nations Refugee Agency. These families, fleeing violence, come from Darfur, a region already scarred by a long-standing armed conflict with deep-seated wounds.

Yaya Adam Mohamed, a man in his sixties, shares his experience of living through over twenty years of conflict in Sudan. Sitting under a mango tree, he reflects on the uncertainty and fatigue caused by the ongoing situation, mentioning the necessity to flee and the limited resources they could carry, such as five bags of millet and peanuts. The narrative highlights the personal impact of the conflict on individuals in Sudan, particularly in the context of the situation in Khartoum.

Since the outbreak of war in Khartoum, Sudan's capital, on April 15, many Sudanese are faced with the dilemma of whether to stay or flee, and how to survive in either scenario. Mohamed Akasha and his family decided to leave their home, taking only essential items with them.

Khartoum, the capital of Sudan, has erupted in violence as factions within the security forces clash, resulting in numerous civilian and military casualties. The conflict stems from tensions between the Sudanese Armed Forces led by General Abdel Fattah Al-Burhane and the Rapid Support Forces led by General Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo. The discord has stalled a crucial international agreement aimed at democratic transition. The situation is further complicated by the involvement of Islamist factions and the potential for a prolonged civil war. International actors, particularly from the Arab axis, are urged to intervene to prevent further escalation.

Sudanese citizens are attempting to flee Khartoum to escape ongoing conflict, but the exodus is costly. Those unable to afford it are forced to stay hidden in their homes. Since the outbreak of war in Khartoum on April 15, many are faced with the dilemma of whether to stay or flee, and how to survive in either scenario. Mohamed Akasha and his family decided to leave, taking only essential items with them.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has avoided impeachment following a parliamentary vote against adopting the recommendations of the 'Phala Phala' report, which involved a burglary at one of his properties and the theft of a large sum of cash of dubious origin. The ANC, holding a majority in Parliament, has shown full support for Ramaphosa, with the report being rejected by 214 votes to 148. The refusal to allow a secret ballot minimized the chance of dissenting voices, with only five ANC members, including Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, voting for the report. The ANC continues to protect its interests within the Assembly.

In Somalia, a severe drought has forced over a million people to leave their villages and seek refuge in camps around Baidoa. The humanitarian crisis is dire, with NGOs working tirelessly to save malnourished children. Families, like that of Abshira Hassan Daoud, struggle to survive on minimal resources, highlighting the devastating impact of the worst drought in forty years.

Africa contributes minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions (4% according to the UN) but is severely affected by climate change. The continent faces rapid population growth, urbanization, and increasing electricity demands, with around 700 million people lacking access to electricity. Financial constraints hinder public authorities from addressing these needs.

A severe humanitarian crisis is unfolding in Somalia due to an ongoing drought, with nearly 7 million people at risk of famine, according to the United Nations. Victor Chinyama, Unicef's communication head in Somalia, warns that half a million people, mostly children, could face acute malnutrition by December.

Somalia is experiencing a severe humanitarian crisis due to its fifth year of drought, with half of its population being undernourished. The United Nations estimates that nearly 7 million people are threatened by famine, which is about half of the country's population. Victor Chinyama, the communication chief of UNICEF in Somalia, warns that half a million people, mostly children, could be in a situation of acute malnutrition by December.

Macky Sall, the Senegalese president and head of the African Union, emphasized Africa's right to remain neutral in the Ukraine conflict during a speech at the United Nations General Assembly. He highlighted Africa's historical burdens and advocated for a non-aligned stance, reflecting a broader sentiment among African nations to avoid taking sides in the war.

In South Africa's Eastern Cape, the Environmental and Rural Solutions (ERS) organization is spearheading efforts to combat invasive species and restore local ecosystems. By employing local communities to remove non-native trees and implementing sustainable grazing practices, ERS aims to improve biodiversity and agricultural productivity. The initiative, supported by local leaders and young activists, emphasizes community involvement and education to ensure long-term environmental and economic benefits. The project also addresses social challenges, such as unemployment and rural exodus, by creating jobs and enhancing local livelihoods through eco-friendly practices and resource management.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, intense fighting between the Congolese army (FARDC) and M23 rebels has displaced nearly 200,000 people since March. The conflict has led to severe humanitarian crises, with displaced families living in dire conditions in makeshift camps. The Congolese government, accused of inefficiency and corruption, struggles to maintain security despite a state of emergency. Accusations of Rwandan and Ugandan support for the rebels have heightened regional tensions. Efforts for peace talks and disarmament have stalled, exacerbating the crisis as the country approaches its next election.

More than 170,000 people have fled their homes in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo due to an offensive by the M23 rebel group, exacerbating regional tensions. The M23, accused of being backed by Rwanda, has reignited conflict in North Kivu province, leading to a severe humanitarian crisis. President Félix Tshisekedi has implemented both military and non-military measures to address the insecurity, including martial law and regional diplomacy, but with limited success. Other armed groups like the Allied Democratic Forces and CODECO continue to pose significant threats. Efforts to disarm and reintegrate fighters are underway, but skepticism remains due to past failures and ongoing violence. The situation is further complicated by regional dynamics involving Rwanda, Uganda, and Burundi.

The resurgence of the M23 rebel group in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has displaced over 170,000 people and reignited regional tensions, particularly between DRC and Rwanda. Despite ceasefire offers, the group continues to clash with Congolese troops, aiming for strategic locations like Goma. President Félix Tshisekedi's efforts to address insecurity through military and non-military measures have shown limited success, with martial law and regional military deployments failing to curb violence. Other armed groups like the ADF and CODECO also pose significant threats, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Peace talks and disarmament programs are underway, but skepticism remains about their effectiveness. Analysts emphasize the need for comprehensive solutions addressing political, economic, and social factors to achieve lasting peace.

The South African music duo Die Antwoord, consisting of Watkin Tudor Jones (Ninja) and Anri du Toit (Yolandi Visser), faces serious allegations of physical and sexual abuse from their adopted son, Gabriel du Preez. The accusations include satanic rituals, forced nudity, and violent behavior. Former collaborator Ben Crossman and other victims have corroborated these claims, leading to public outcry and calls for legal action. Despite the gravity of the allegations, no formal complaints have been filed yet.

On January 3, 2021, French Mirage 2000D jets conducted an airstrike near Bounti, Mali, killing 22 people, including 19 civilians, during a wedding party. The UN's MINUSMA report found no evidence of weapons at the scene, contradicting French claims that the targets were terrorists. The weapon used was identified as a US-made GBU-12 Paveway II bomb. The incident has raised concerns about the use of US-made weapons and the oversight of arms sales. Despite calls for an investigation, the French Armed Forces have denied any wrongdoing. The event highlights the complexities and consequences of foreign military operations in the Sahel region.

Desmond Tutu, a prominent figure in the fight against apartheid and the first black Anglican archbishop, was laid to rest in a ceremony at St. George's Cathedral in Cape Town, South Africa. Known for his advocacy against the apartheid regime, Tutu's funeral was held in a place of significant historical importance, where he had led many marches and campaigns. He had requested the simplest and least expensive coffin for his burial.

Desmond Tutu, the last icon of the anti-apartheid struggle, was honored with a national funeral on January 1, 2022, at St. George's Cathedral in Cape Town, where he served as the first black Anglican archbishop. The funeral was attended by notable figures, including former Irish President Mary Robinson and current South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who praised Tutu as a moral compass and national conscience. Tutu, who passed away on December 26, was remembered for his nonviolent resistance against apartheid and his unwavering hope for South Africa. The ceremony was modest, as per his wishes, with a small bouquet of white carnations on a plain pine coffin. Thousands visited the cathedral to pay their respects, and Tutu's ashes will rest inside the cathedral.

Adama Kanté, a 22-year-old Malian entrepreneur, shares his journey and daily life in agriculture through social media, emphasizing that agriculture is the hope for Africa. Starting with minimal resources, he has become a symbol of the future of agriculture, showcasing the potential for youth empowerment and entrepreneurship in the sector.

Young urban individuals are venturing into agriculture, a sector that generates jobs, income, and meets the growing food needs of the continent. Success stories are increasing, exemplified by Adama Kanté, a 22-year-old Malian entrepreneur who shares his agricultural journey on social media, embodying the future of agriculture in Africa.

South Africa is experiencing a rapid surge in COVID-19 cases driven by the Omicron variant, which is now dominant in the country. President Cyril Ramaphosa has tested positive but is experiencing mild symptoms. Despite the increase in cases, hospitals are not overwhelmed, and the majority of patients have mild symptoms. The government is pushing for increased vaccination, with less than 40% of the adult population fully vaccinated. The economic situation and high unemployment rate make it challenging to impose stricter measures. Experts caution against drawing conclusions about Omicron's impact based solely on South Africa's experience.

The Malian army, supported by the European Union and France, is accused of committing more civilian deaths than the jihadist insurgents they are fighting. Despite documented human rights violations, the EU continues to provide training and equipment without a vetting mechanism to prevent contributions to rights abuses. The EU-backed army's actions are believed to be driving radicalization and extremism. The European Training Mission to Mali (EUTM) lacks a mandate for human rights monitoring, and there is no post-training tracking of soldiers' conduct. The French Ministry of Armed Forces trusts the Malian military to apply the law of armed conflicts, despite the EU parliament's call for redefining military training missions to include human rights monitoring. Mali's army has been losing ground to insurgents and is described as under-equipped and poorly trained. The EU spends around 30 million euros annually on training Malian forces, which is criticized for not effectively combating the insurgency and for being part of a corrupt system. The French troop drawdown and the push for European armies to deploy in the Sahel raise concerns about the effectiveness and ethical implications of foreign military support in the region.

Shops have been ransacked, windows shattered, and debris scattered in the aftermath of looting in the Chris Hani mall in Vosloorus, a poor neighborhood in southern Johannesburg. Looters of all ages are seen carrying bags and boxes filled with food, clothing, and other items. A local mother explains that the looting is driven by hunger and unemployment, reflecting the desperation of those with nothing to lose.

Shops have been ransacked, windows shattered, and debris scattered, leaving the Chris Hani mall in Vosloorus, a poor neighborhood in southern Johannesburg, resembling a post-apocalyptic scene. Along the road, looters of all ages carry bags and boxes filled with food, clothing, and other items. A local mother explains that they steal because they are hungry and have no jobs, highlighting the desperation and lack of resources driving the unrest.

An investigation by The New Humanitarian and Der Spiegel into France's anti-jihadist Operation Barkhane in Mali reveals a higher civilian death toll than officially acknowledged. Eyewitness accounts and leaked documents suggest at least 25 more civilian deaths since 2013, with the UN and survivors disputing French claims of targeting only jihadists. The French military's lack of transparency and accountability is criticized, and local grievances over civilian casualties are believed to be boosting jihadist recruitment. The UN has called for an independent inquiry into the Bounti village attack, where 19 civilian casualties were confirmed, but France has not complied. The French military's reliance on air power and special forces is expected to increase, raising concerns about adherence to international humanitarian law.

French and Malian soldiers patrol Gossi, Mali, as part of Operation Barkhane, aiming to maintain security against elusive jihadist groups. Despite significant military presence and efforts, the enemy remains hard to identify, blending in with civilians. The French military has been involved since 2013, initially under Operation Serval, now Barkhane, covering five Sahel countries. The operation faces challenges, including the need for European support and the training of local forces. The situation remains complex, with ongoing violence and a distant resolution.

South Africa's progressive constitution prohibits discrimination, prompting legislators to consider a new marriage bill that includes polyandry, currently a national debate. Polygamy is legal for men (polygyny) but not for women, raising questions of gender equality. Religious party officials and social media debate the proposal, citing cultural inappropriateness and family values, while others view it as a step towards a less patriarchal society. The bill also aims to recognize unions from various religious and cultural minorities and to ban child marriage.

French President Emmanuel Macron visited South Africa to discuss Covid-19 vaccine distribution with President Cyril Ramaphosa. Both leaders emphasized the need for sharing vaccine patents to ensure global access. Macron supports a temporary waiver of intellectual property rights, while Ramaphosa calls for immediate action to address vaccine inequities. The discussion also highlighted the role of local production facilities like Aspen and Biovac in accelerating vaccine distribution. The article reflects on the broader implications of vaccine patent sharing and the challenges faced by countries like South Africa in securing sufficient vaccine supplies.

South Africa has the highest rate of fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) in the world, a legacy of colonial history where Dutch settlers made slaves alcohol-dependent. This practice continued, with white winemakers paying workers in wine, illegal since 1961 but with lasting effects. Many children are born with growth delays, neurodevelopmental disorders, and in severe cases, brain damage due to maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy. In some towns, up to one in fifteen children suffer from FAS-related disorders. Despite the high alcohol consumption across all classes and races, the issue remains taboo, and public support structures for affected children are lacking. Ironically, major alcohol brands fund the few organizations fighting fetal alcoholism, such as FARR, but contributions are minimal compared to their profits.

The conflict in Mali, particularly in the Mopti region, is driven by a complex interplay of ethnic tensions, economic disenfranchisement, and the rise of jihadist groups. The Malian government and army are criticized for their heavy-handed tactics and human rights abuses, while traditional hunting fraternities like the Dozo are accused of forming militias that target the Fulani ethnic group. Islamist militants, led by figures like Amadou Koufa, exploit local grievances to recruit fighters. The conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties and displacement, with over 1,500 conflict-related deaths recorded in 2020. The situation is exacerbated by the absence of state authority and the breakdown of traditional conflict resolution mechanisms.

The South African government is considering adding a 'third gender' option on birth certificates and identity documents, a move that could benefit non-binary and intersex individuals. This proposal comes amid ongoing challenges faced by intersex people, including non-consensual surgeries and societal discrimination. The article highlights the case of athlete Caster Semenya, who has been affected by regulations due to her naturally high testosterone levels. South Africa, a pioneer in protecting intersex rights, may soon allow legal recognition beyond the binary gender system.

South Africa is the first country to use the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, which is not yet commercially available and is awaiting approval from American and European health authorities. 80,000 doses have been delivered to prioritize the vaccination of healthcare workers.

South Africa's vaccination campaign begins chaotically as previously ordered AstraZeneca doses prove ineffective against the South African variant. The country is the first to use the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, which is not yet commercially available and awaits approval from American and European health authorities. 80,000 doses have been delivered, prioritizing healthcare workers.

The South African government, criticized for its slow COVID-19 vaccination rollout, procured one million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine, which were intended for healthcare workers. However, the campaign faced a setback when clinical trials showed limited efficacy against the new South African variant. The government is now considering alternative strategies, including using the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, which has proven effective against severe COVID-19 cases. South Africa has also ordered doses from Pfizer/BioNTech and is negotiating with other laboratories to ensure a broad vaccine portfolio.

In the Mopti region of Central Mali, civilians are caught between jihadists, community self-defense groups of the Fulani and Dogon, and the Malian army. The report details an incident recounted by Khadija Hamadoun Diallo, where military forces conducted searches and arrests in her village, returned a month later, opened fire, and burned down houses, leaving the villagers with nothing.

In the Mopti region of Mali, civilians are caught between jihadists, community self-defense groups of the Fulani and Dogon, and the Malian army. Khadija Hamadoun Diallo recounts how the military conducted searches and arrests in her village before returning a month later, shooting indiscriminately, and burning down houses to ensure nothing was left for the villagers.

As Africa faces a second wave of COVID-19, voices are condemning the moral failure of wealthy countries. While millions in the United States and China have been vaccinated and Israel is aiming for herd immunity in the short term, only three African countries – Seychelles, Egypt, and Mauritius – have started a real vaccination campaign.

While millions of Americans and Chinese have already received their doses and Israel aims for herd immunity in the short term, only three African countries—Seychelles, Egypt, and Mauritius—have so far initiated a real vaccination campaign.

In Lesotho, MG Health operates the largest legal cannabis farm near Marakabei, producing high-quality cannabis with low THC and high CBD content. The farm is meticulously managed with controlled temperature, light, and humidity. Despite the legal ambiguities surrounding CBD, it is gaining popularity for its therapeutic uses. The World Health Organization states that CBD is neither addictive nor harmful. André Bothma, the director of MG Health, emphasizes the challenges and consistency required in this business.

Two years after the start of the Sudanese revolution, thousands of people took to the streets of Khartoum and other cities to express their frustration and anger. The anniversary, which was expected to be a celebration, turned into a protest against the transitional government for not implementing real reforms. The revolution, which began with protests against a sudden increase in bread prices, led to the fall of the autocratic president Omar el-Béchir. The country is now governed by a transitional government, including a civilian Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok and a Sovereign Council composed of civilians and military officials, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhane.

A series of brutal xenophobic attacks targeting foreign truck drivers in South Africa has escalated, with dozens of trucks torched, cargoes looted, and drivers injured or killed. The violence, which has not been claimed by any group, is suspected to be xenophobic, with most victims being African foreign nationals. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa condemned the attacks, which threaten the economic recovery process amid the Covid-19 pandemic. The trucking industry is described as being under siege, with competition over routes and employment of cheaper foreign drivers over South Africans being a contentious issue. Human Rights Watch reported approximately 200 driver deaths between March 2018 and July 2019. The recent attacks have led to arrests and discussions about potentially deploying the army. The situation could lead to increased food prices and commodities while unemployment and poverty are at record levels.

The article describes the mass exodus of Ethiopian refugees from Tigray, focusing on the personal story of an 8-year-old girl named Shalom. It highlights the dire conditions and emotional turmoil faced by the refugees as they flee conflict in their homeland.

Bombings in Humera, a small agricultural town in northern Ethiopia, have forced many, including an 8-year-old girl named Shalom, to flee. Shalom's story reflects the broader despair and hopes of thousands of displaced individuals seeking refuge under makeshift shelters.

As bombs began falling on Humera in early November, Habrehet Gebray protected her children by lying on the floor of their home. After a brief respite, she fled to a nearby village under gunfire and explosions. Returning home days later, she found her house looted and faced hostility due to her Tigrayan ethnicity and her husband's government job. Now in Hamdayet, Sudan, she stays in a rented hut, avoiding the refugee reception area managed by Sudanese authorities and the UN High Commissioner.

Eva Lopa and Aluel Atem, two young women from South Sudan, are challenging the deeply entrenched patriarchal norms in their society through their feminist radio show, GenderTalk211. Broadcasted on Advance Youth Radio, the show addresses women's rights and daily struggles, aiming to create a safe space for women to discuss their issues. Both women, who grew up in exile, returned to South Sudan to contribute to its development and fight against gender discrimination. Their efforts include advocating for education and combating forced marriages, with the goal of shifting social norms and promoting gender equality.

South Africa continues to struggle with racial tensions and social inequality nearly three decades after the end of apartheid. Recent confrontations between black activists from the Economic Freedom Fighters and predominantly white parents at a Cape Town school highlight ongoing divisions. President Cyril Ramaphosa has warned against racial polarization, emphasizing the need for calm. Despite constitutional commitments to eliminate racial discrimination, economic disparities and segregation persist, fueling populism and social unrest.

South Africa is transitioning to the final stage of lifting COVID-19 restrictions, but the country faces a significant corruption scandal involving misappropriated pandemic funds. President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed frustration and disappointment in an open letter to the African National Congress, condemning the betrayal and greed within the party. The scandal, one of the largest since apartheid, has exacerbated the nation's economic and social crises, with widespread fraud and mismanagement of resources intended for pandemic relief.

The article draws parallels between the deaths of Collins Khosa in South Africa and George Floyd in the United States, highlighting systemic racism and police brutality in both countries. It details the circumstances of Khosa's death at the hands of South African security forces during the COVID-19 lockdown and the subsequent lack of justice. The piece underscores the deep-seated issues of racial discrimination and the need for social justice reforms.

A decade after South Africa began to emerge from the AIDS pandemic, which claimed 3 million lives, the country faces the COVID-19 pandemic with memories of past struggles. Despite significant progress in HIV treatment, about 70,000 people still die annually from related illnesses. The current pandemic brings back fears of government denial, lack of necessary medication in hospitals, and the trauma of unnecessary deaths. While the middle class in predominantly white neighborhoods flirts with illegality to enjoy simple pleasures, those in townships struggle to survive, facing hunger and the anxiety of providing for their children post-crisis. The government's proactive stance offers some reassurance, but with a recession looming and the worst of the epidemic yet to come, the nation is resigned yet apprehensive, hoping to avoid a repeat of past devastation.

In South Africa, state aid promised to the poorest is slow to materialize. In the black neighborhoods of the townships, hunger is added to the fear of the virus. In Melville, a cosmopolitan neighborhood of Johannesburg inhabited mostly by the middle class, people enjoy some freedom after two months of strict lockdown, despite the country being the most affected by Covid-19 on the continent with over 21,000 confirmed cases.

In South Africa, townships like Alexandra in Johannesburg are facing severe challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting hunger. With over 4,300 confirmed cases, the country is the hardest hit in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite strict measures, the virus has spread to densely populated and impoverished areas, exacerbating existing hardships. Scenes of desperation, such as large crowds gathering for food without masks, highlight the struggle between maintaining social distancing and addressing immediate hunger needs.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has gained popularity for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, despite implementing some of the world's strictest lockdown measures. The ban on cooked food sales in supermarkets, announced by Economic Development Minister Ebrahim Patel, has sparked public outrage and accusations of government overreach. The deployment of additional soldiers to enforce lockdown rules has also raised concerns. While the government maintains support from many citizens, there is growing frustration and questioning of certain measures and their enforcement methods.

African artists across the continent are using their music and popularity to spread prevention messages against coronavirus, raise funds, and support response efforts. Catchy rhythms and lyrics in multiple languages promote practices like social distancing, hand washing, and mask-wearing. In Senegal, artists like Didier Awadi and Youssou N’Dour have released a song, 'Daan Corona,' with proceeds going to the Ministry of Health. Burkina Faso's rapper Smarty, with UNICEF's support, combats rumors and misinformation. Ugandan rapper and opposition leader Bobi Wine, along with Nubian Li, has also been vocal in the fight against the virus, providing advice and listing symptoms through their music.

The article explores the challenges faced by people in various countries due to COVID-19 lockdowns, highlighting the severe impact on informal workers and the poor. In South Africa, strict enforcement has led to tensions and incidents of police brutality. In Colombia, informal workers protest against the lack of food and aid. In Cameroon, large families struggle with confinement measures. Rwanda's government is praised for its organized response, while Thailand's lockdown reveals stark social inequalities. The article underscores that hunger and economic necessity drive people to defy lockdowns despite the risks.

Guinean President Alpha Condé, at 82 years old and after a decade in power, is compared to Nelson Mandela but criticized for his determination to cling to power. Despite a political crisis and the coronavirus pandemic, Guinea held a constitutional referendum on March 22, which could allow Condé to seek a third term. The new constitution was approved with 91.5% 'yes' votes. Condé, who has been an opposition figure for forty years, is described as intelligent, authoritarian, and stubborn. His tenure has seen growth without development, benefiting only a small network of politicians and businessmen, with social indicators below West African averages. Condé, reelected in 2015 amid fraud suspicions, believes he needs more time, and within his party, the RPG, dissent is scarce.

In Johannesburg's Alexandra township, the atmosphere remains tense as South Africa enters a strict three-week lockdown to curb the spread of COVID-19. With 927 confirmed cases, the country is the most affected in Africa. President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized the critical nature of the coming days, warning that without decisive action, infections could surge dramatically. Residents like Refilwe Mosiane express concerns over health and economic stability, highlighting the pandemic's profound impact on daily life.

South Africa has implemented a strict lockdown for at least three weeks to curb the spread of the coronavirus. Only essential services such as supermarkets, food stores, and pharmacies remain open, and only workers in critical sectors like medical and security are allowed to go to work. Johannesburg appears deserted with closed shops and empty streets.