Focus on Africa

Weight-loss injections have become a major talking point, from Hollywood celebrities to TikTok influencers.Originally developed to treat diabetes, these medications were later found to help people shed a lot of weight - a discovery that has rapidly expanded their global use. The World Health Organization has now released its first-ever guidance on prescribing them for obesity.South Africa recently became the first country in Africa to formally approve one version of these drugs for weight loss, and access is slowly spreading across the continent.We follow a Kenyan woman’s experience using the injections and we hear from a South African doctor who explains how they work - and what the latest medical research reveals so far.

Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group says it has captured Uvira town near DR Congo's southeastern border with Burundi. This comes after US President Donald Trump brokered a peace deal between DR Congolese leader Felix Tshisekedi and President Paul Kagame of Rwanda in Washington DC last week. We look at what the renewed fighting means for DR Congo and the peace agreement.Also, a housing deficit poses a threat to Africa's young people with increased difficulty in renting or acquiring homes. Where will Africa's youth live? Presenter : Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Bella Twine, Keikantse Shumba, Dingindaba Jonah Buyoya and Madina Maishanu Technical Producer: Davis Mwasaru Senior Producer: Charles Gitonga Editors: Samuel Murunga and Maryam Abdalla

In Tanzania, Independence Day protests stall following stern government warnings but questions over the country's human rights record remain.   And also, tragedy in an attempt to strike gold. We hear how unregulated and risky gold mines are cutting short the lives of school-going teenagers in Sierra Leone.   Presenter : Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Bella Twine, Keikantse Shumba, Ayuba Iliya and Daniel Dadzie Technical Producer: Davis Mwasaru Senior Producer: Charles Gitonga Editors: Samuel Murunga and Maryam Abdalla

The US is prioritising asylum applications from white farmers in South Africa where it says there’s a 'genocide' against them, despite the claims being widely discredited. A BBC Africa Eye team spoke to some white Afrikaner farmers and black farmers to gain insight about the situation. Also, a conversation on vaginal wellness. We find out some of the most common products and practices that experts say could be harmful.Presenter : Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Bella Twine, Keikantse Shumba and Priya Sippy Technical Producer: Davis Mwasaru Senior Producer: Charles Gitonga Editors: Samuel Murunga and Maryam Abdalla

Bervéli Ocheng, a Francophone Africa analyst at Control Risks, provides expert insights on the recent coup attempt in Benin. He discusses how the swift government response and support from loyal forces prevented a takeover. Bervéli highlights the military’s grievances and the broader context of failed coups across West Africa. He warns of potential fallout before upcoming elections, emphasizing the need for dialogue and stability. The podcast also dives into unexpected cultural insights, including dog meat markets in Nigeria, revealing fascinating practices and beliefs around this controversial food.

What does it feel like when your photos are taken, manipulated and shared online without your consent? That’s the reality for 23-year-old Debra Nashipae, a Kenyan student and aspiring musician whose images were turned into deepfake pornography – a form of digital abuse that experts say is increasing rapidly. According to UN Women, 90–95% of all deepfakes online are non-consensual pornographic images, and around 90% of those depict women. Their report also highlights that half of the world’s women and girls lack legal protection against this kind of digital violence. In this episode of Focus on Africa: The Conversation, host Nkechi Ogbonna spoke to Debra about her experience, along with her lawyer, Mercy Mutemi, who is advocating for justice and better protection of digital rights. Presenter : Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Carolyne Kiambo, Fana Weldye, Waihiga Mwaura, Ly Truong Technical Producers: Jonathan Mwangi and Philip Bull Senior Producer: Priya Sippy Editors: Samuel Murunga and Maryam Abdalla

Dingin Daba Jonah Buyoya, a Zambian journalist, provides Insight into Ethel Chisono Edwards's controversial sentencing for criticizing the president, sparking a debate on freedom of speech in Zambia. Samuel Mutua, from the International Fund for Animal Welfare, dives into the alarming rise of trafficking lesser-known species like ants and reptiles, discussing economic impacts and corruption in wildlife trafficking networks. Together, they illuminate the complexities of freedom of expression and environmental protection in today's Africa.

Madina Meshanu, a BBC field reporter, shares harrowing accounts from parents affected by the Papiri kidnappings in Nigeria, revealing the emotional toll on families. Rita Awuma, a mental health advocate from Uganda, discusses her personal journey through care at Butabika Hospital, tackling stigma and highlighting the need for better policies. Dr. Chido Ruafa, a psychiatrist with the WHO, addresses misconceptions about mental health institutions and advocates for integrated care, emphasizing community rehabilitation over confinement.

A rare conversation with Egypt's Foreign Minister about the Sudan War and the tensions with Ethiopia over the river Nile, and Focus on Africa moves its hub from London to Nairobi. Egypt's Foreign Minister Dr Badr Abdelatty has denied that his country is supporting the Sudanese Armed Forces in the war against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. He also spoke about tensions with Ethiopia after the collapse of talks over use of the waters of River Nile.And after more than six decades of broadcasting from London, Focus on Africa has just arrived in its new home, Nairobi.Presenter : Nkechi Ogbonna Producers:  Bella Twine, Keikantse Shumba and Ly Truong Technical Producer: Philip Bull Senior Producer: Charles Gitonga Editors: Samuel Murunga and Maryam Abdalla

In this discussion, Aaron Gambi, a Zambian geopolitical analyst, delves into President Hakainde Hichilema's controversial constitutional amendments and their unsettling implications for democracy and the upcoming elections. He highlights the growing discontent among younger Zambians and the administration's unmet promises. Meanwhile, Jesse Rowlands shares insights on the impactful Zimbabwean short film "Rise," revealing its authentic storytelling, the importance of an all-African cast, and the Hollywood attention it has garnered, including potential Oscar consideration.