Next Africa

Two weeks since the Mpox outbreak was declared a global health emergency, cases have already been seen far beyond Africa. Scientists and public health officials are now asking whether this could have been avoided - and why we need to look again at how we treat tropical disease in Africa. Janice Kew joins Jennifer Zabasajja to give the latest on the response, what’s happening with vaccines and why children, who account for most of the deaths, will have to wait longer for a vaccine.   Read all the latest coverage on Mpox on Bloomberg NewsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The price of gold has hit another record high, partly driven by demand from central banks that see it as a way of protecting themselves from economic and geopolitical turbulence. Africa's central bankers have been among the buyers, as they see the precious metal as a valuable shield in an uncertain world. Bloomberg’s Ray Ndlovu joins Jennifer Zabasajja to explain the renewed interest in gold, and how long the trend might last.  Read Ray's reporting on Bloomberg hereSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A mutated strain of Mpox in Central Africa has been declared a public health emergency of international by the World Health Organisation. About 15,000 cases have been reported so far in the DRC - but at least 6 other African countries have reported cases - and Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda and Uganda have reported their first ever Mpox cases. Bloomberg Healthcare reporter Janice Kew joins Jennifer Zabasajja with the latest updates, and whether the international community is doing enough to support African countries in containing the outbreakSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The podcast dives into the shocking absence of a national ID system in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It reveals how corruption has hijacked funds meant for identification projects, leading to the construction of a $25 million shopping mall instead. Discussions highlight the struggles of citizens who lack access to essential services and the stark inequalities in a nation rich in resources but poor in governance. The podcast also underscores the urgent need for accountability and the implications of identity crises on personal rights.

In this enlightening discussion, President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria shares insights on his ambitious reforms amid the nation's severe economic crisis. He addresses the staggering inflation and food shortages sparking protests. Tinubu explains the challenges he inherited and the delicate balance between leveraging Nigeria's oil wealth and tackling poverty. His government faces scrutiny over transparency and the complexities of fuel subsidies, prompting questions about the political will to drive lasting change.

Jennifer Zabasajja, a passionate foodie from Johannesburg, visits Akoko, a West African restaurant in London gaining Michelin's attention. She discusses the power dynamics between celebrity influence and culinary accolades. Kate Krader, Bloomberg's food editor, explores the surge of interest in African cuisine, highlighting its rich cultural significance and unique flavors. The conversation dives into the challenges faced by African chefs in the fine dining scene and how Michelin recognition is changing the game for these culinary artists.

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Energies companies from across the world are rushing to exploit huge oil discoveries off the coast of Namibia. Total, Shell and Galp all have plans for projects - which could start as early as this year - transforming the southern African state into a global energy power.  Bloomberg’s Paul Burkhardt joins Jennifer Zabasajja to explain what the discovery could mean for Namibia. You can read the story now on Bloomberg: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-07-18/african-outpost-gets-ready-to-become-world-s-newest-oil-hotspotSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

President Paul Kagame is likely to win reelection in Rwanda on Monday: he rarely wins less than 95% of the vote. But despite opposition figures being barred from standing against him, and human rights bodies raising concerns about the country - Kagame remains a key ally for western leaders. Neil Munshi and Simon Marks join Jennifer Zabasajja to talk about their latest profile of Kagame, and the how opposition within the country is trying to organise - and ask whether 30 years after the genocide if the country's impressive economic recovery comes at the cost of a free and fair democracy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

South Arica's growing fruit exports have been a rare bright spot in a stagnant economy. Now they are in peril as well. The near-collapse of the state rail and ports company means 20-hour truck trips are needed to get fruit to export markets before they spoil. Ntando Thukwana joins Jennifer Zabasajja to discuss the threat to an industry that's one of the country's biggest employers.     See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.