Focus on Africa

Rondin Sye, Editor of Liberia’s Front Page Africa, dives into pressing issues like the resurgence of piracy in Somalia. He discusses how illegal fishing and local desperation are driving this trend, impacting the global economy. Sye also explores the recent unrest in Liberia, sparked by protests and a suspicious parliamentary fire, highlighting the political turmoil and governance challenges faced by the new administration. Lastly, he touches on Nigerians' mixed feelings about the festive 'Dirty December', blending nostalgia with economic strain.

Nawal Almagafi, a BBC reporter embedded with Kenyan forces in Haiti, shares gripping insights into the struggles faced by underfunded Kenyan police working to combat gang violence. Prestaj Murema discusses the complex journeys of Somali migrants returning home from Libya, highlighting the emotional and social challenges of repatriation. Meanwhile, Abdelali Ragad sheds light on the controversy over Kamel Daoud's novel 'Huris,' recently banned in Algeria, prompting reflections on censorship and the country's turbulent literary landscape.

Umaru Fofana, a prominent Sierra Leonean journalist, shares harrowing details of the mass deportation of Sierra Leoneans from Guinea, highlighting the humanitarian impact and underlying socio-political tensions. Economically, Mudibo Mau Makalu, an economist based in Bamako, discusses Mali's significant lithium mining project, focusing on its potential benefits and local challenges. The podcast also touches on rising state surveillance in Kenya, raising concerns about civil liberties amid government monitoring efforts.

Dr. Frederick Oporia, a public health professional from Makerere University, sheds light on Uganda's alarming drowning rates, emphasizing urgent community awareness and preventive strategies. Thomas Nadi shares a gripping account of James, a Ghanaian man captured by jihadists in Burkina Faso, highlighting the perilous landscape of West Africa’s security. Dele Oyewale discusses disturbing cybercrime trends in Nigeria, focusing on the rise of internet scam academies and the challenges they pose for law enforcement. A profound discussion on pressing issues in Africa.

Richard Kagoy, Africa regional editor, shares insights on the devastating impact of Cyclone Chido, which has left Mayotte in crisis as it grapples with a mounting death toll and urgent relief efforts. Katrin Atkins discusses the lingering peril of landmines in Africa, highlighting the need for international support to address their deadly legacy. Veteran political cartoonist Zapiro delves into the art of political satire, reflecting on its power to critique authority and inspire public discourse in a changing political landscape.

Hannah Ryder, CEO of Development Re-Imagined, and Jethil Tronvall, a peace and conflict studies professor at Oslo University, dive into the disturbing deportation of Eritreans from Ethiopia, examining the socio-political tensions behind these actions. They discuss the heartbreaking plight of Eritrean refugees and the impact of the Tigray conflict. The conversation also touches on the experiences of Syrians in Somalia, highlighting resilience and cultural integration amid adversity, alongside China's strategic trade moves with Africa, showcasing a complex international landscape.

Colin Shaka is a Mozambican protester taking a stand against disputed election results, sharing firsthand accounts of unrest and resilience in his country. Joining him is Diana Games, CEO of Africa at Work, who discusses the complex ties between South Africa and Nigeria. The conversation delves into Ethiopia and Somalia's historic agreement to resolve maritime access issues, highlighting Turkey's mediation role. The dialogue unveils the challenges faced by Mozambicans, alongside insights into fostering collaboration in Africa's political landscape.

Zambia's constitutional court says former President Lungu is ineligible for re-election.  He alleges political interferenceWe'll look at Operation Serengeti, a multinational attempt to stamp out cybercrimePlus, a BBC investigation into how influencers are spreading disinformation on women's health on TikTokPresenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Victor Sylver and Yvette Twagiramariya in London and Charles Gitonga in Nairobi. Senior Producer :Paul Bakibinga Technical Producer: Nick Randell Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Nelly Naisula Sironga, a 28-year-old Kenyan woman advocating for reproductive rights, shares her personal journey of choosing tubal ligation and discusses the societal pressures around motherhood. Tim Eaton, a Senior Research Fellow, analyzes the African Union's complex role in Libya's ongoing political crisis, highlighting its challenges in mediating peace among rival factions. The conversation also touches on Spain's new immigration policy benefiting undocumented migrants, offering a glimmer of hope amidst strict border control.

Tenyola Tayo, a policy advisor on infrastructure financing, joins the conversation to discuss John Mahama's anticipated comeback as Ghana's president amid economic struggles and corruption. They delve into the significant political shift and the expectations from Mahama's leadership. Tayo also highlights the urgent need for innovative financing solutions to bridge Africa's infrastructure gap, stressing that strategic planning is essential for sustainable growth. Additionally, they touch on the taboos surrounding menstruation in women's sports, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and support.