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Focus on Africa

Focus on Africa

963 episodes — Page 11 of 20

Why jihadist groups use female suicide bombers?

Nigerian authorities say that suspected female suicide bombers participated in coordinated attacks in Nigeria that killed dozens of people. Why do young girls and women become suicide bombers?How the lives of displaced people in Mozambique's troubled Cabo Delgado Province are being rebuilt.And can local communities in Africa can be involved in conservation ? Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Sunita Nahar, Bella Hassan and Nyasha Michelle in London. Charles Gitonga in Nairobi. Technical Producer: Gabriel O'Regan Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Jul 2, 202434 min

South Africa has a new coalition government

South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa has unveiled a new coalition government, after his party, the African National Congress lost its parliamentary majority in May's elections. Mr Ramaphosa said "the government of national unity is unprecedented in the history of our democracy". What do South Africans think of the new cabinet?Also a conversation with Ugandan designer Latif Madoi who was arrested and relased on bail.And can Tunisia's Ons Jabeur bring home tennis's most title..Wimbledon Champion? Presenter: Charles Gitonga Producers: Joseph Keen, Sunita Nahar, Rob Wilson, Nyasha Michelle and Bella Hassan Technical Producer: Gabriel O Regan Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

Jul 1, 202432 min

Sierra Leone has banned child marriage

Sierra Leone recently passed a landmark bill to ban child marriage. The country has one of the highest child marriage rates in the world. How easy will it be to eliminate the practice?Also we hear from the new chancellor for the University of Nairobi Professor Patrick Verkooijen. What's his view on the Gen Z inspired protests in Kenya?And how did Togo manage to eliminate four neglected tropical diseases? Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Aime Liebowitz, Bella Hassan, Victor Sylver and Rob Wilson in London. Frenny Jowi and Charles Gitonga in Nairobi. Technical Producer: Chris Kouzaris Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Jun 28, 202433 min

Why is a new regional force for West Africa necessary?

Ministers of Ecowas, the regional and political organisation for fifteen west African countries, are meeting in Abuja to discuss the formation of a new regional force against terrorism and unconstitutional government changes. The talks come amidst a rise in jihadist activity across the Sahel and after recent coups. Is a new regional force, the answer to the challenges faced by countries in West Africa?Also a recent strain of mpox in the DRC has been described as the "most dangerous yet". Another strain has been detected in South Africa. What do you need to know about the virus? And what’s it like being queer in Nigeria? The BBC is let into a secretly held event for Nigeria's LGBTQ+ community. Presenter: Charles Gitonga Producers: Victor Sylver, Amie Liebowitz, Bella Hassan and Sunita Nahar Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Technical Producer: Chris Ablakwa Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

Jun 27, 202428 min

Why tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia are showing no signs of easing

Somalia's ambassador to the United Nations recently accused Ethiopian troops of making illegal incursions across their shared border. Relations between the two countries have continued to decline ever since Ethiopia signed a non-binding agreement with the breakaway Republic of Somaliland earlier this year. Why Africans continue to pay a high price for denied visas into Europe.And how floating solar panels can help Africa become more energy sufficient. Presenter: Charles Gitonga Producers: Susan Gachuhi, Frenny Jowi, Sunita Nahar, Bella Hassan, Nyasha Michelle and Patricia Whitehorne. Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Technical Producer: Jonathan Greer Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Jun 26, 202433 min

Kenya: Why have police stepped up action against young protestors?

Protesters in Kenya embarked on yet another round of demonstrations against a new finance bill that seeks to introduce new taxes. Police appeared overwhelmed in some parts of the capital, Nairobi. Demonstrators were seen approaching the parliament complex, where fire could be seen. Why have demonstrations darkened? Also Nigeria's Centre for Disease Control expresses particular concern over this year's outbreak of cholera. Over 50 people have died from the disease.And a new study in Sierra Leone says political discourse can have a devastating impact on mental health. Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Charles Gitonga, Sunita Nahar, Rob Wilson and Victor Sylver Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Technical Producer: Chris Ablakwa Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Jun 25, 202433 min

A victory for the Christian LGBTQ activist in Namibia

Namibian activist Friedel Dausab, who won a landmark case when judges ruled that laws banning same-sex acts between men are unconstitutional, says he drew strength from his Christian faith and from his mum.Over a billion dollars has been pledged to develop vaccines in Africa. How will it work and will African insitutions be able to access the money? And who is Michael Usi, the former comedian who is now Malawi's new vice president?Presenter: Charles Gitonga Producers: Rob Wilson, Frenny Jowi and Bella Hassan Senior Journalist: Patricia Whitehorne Technical Producer: Chris Ablakwa Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

Jun 24, 202430 min

Kenya: Why are these protests different?

Kenya braces itself for more marches next week when lawmakers take a final vote on the controversial tax proposals. But who are the young people taking to the streets and are they really changing the face of protest in Kenya?Also what are the factors hampering Burundi's economyAnd why are South African traditional healers, or Sangomas as they're known, being trained to test clients for HIV?Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Rob Wilson, Susan Gachuhi, Bella Hassan and Nyasha Michelle Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Technical Producer: Jack Graysmark Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

Jun 21, 202432 min

How do Hajj pilgrims cope with a heatwave in Saudi Arabia?

Hundreds of Muslim worshippers have reportedly died during Hajj, the annual Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca. Most of the deaths have been because of heat-related illnesses. Saudi Arabia has been hit by sweltering temperatures this year. What measures are in place to help travellers mitigate the risks from these high temperatures? Also, why are cases of sexually transmitted infections on the rise on the continent? And why do many students from across Africa prefer studying at Western Universities? What's the attraction and how are they treated once they get into a University in the West? Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Frenny Jowi, Susan Gachuhi, Patricia Whitehorne, Nyasha Michelle and Bella Hassan. Technical Producer :Jack Graysmark Senior Producer:Paul Bakibinga Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

Jun 20, 202432 min

The harsh conditions facing Sudanese refugees in Egypt

Amnesty International is calling on Egypt to stop arresting Sudanese people seeking refuge from war. The human rights watchdog says Egypt must also stop sending refugees back to Sudan. Our correspondent in Cairo tells us how these refugees are perceived and treated.Also why is violence once again on the rise in Mozambique's Cabo Delgado Province?And how did Famo, a genre of music in Lesotho, came to be associated with gang violence?Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Bella Hassan, Rob Wilson, Patricia Whitehorn and Nyasha Michelle Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Technical Producer: Jonathan Greer

Jun 19, 202434 min

Kenya: Why have some proposed taxes been scrapped?

Kenya's government has bowed to public pressure and scrapped plans to introduce new taxes on items like bread and motor vehicles. Why were Kenyans so angry with the tax increments? Ethiopia one of sub-Saharan Africa's major economies, opens up its banking sector to foreign investors. What will it mean for the country? And why is Sierra Leone considering updating its child protection laws?

Jun 18, 202423 min

Why a university protest got female students arrested in South Sudan?

Female students at the University of Juba in South Sudan say, they were arrested and beaten by police following a protest against a rise in hostel fees. It's caused concern amongst civil society groups in the country. We'll hear reaction from Jackline Nasiwa, a human rights defender and director of Centre for Inclusive Governance, Peace and Justice in South Sudan.Also a task team in Sierra Leone finds that the addictive drug Kush is one hundred times more potent than heroinAnd can AI help farmers on the continent with pest control? Presenter: Charles Gitonga Producers: Rob Wilson, Bella Hassan and Frenny Jowi Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Technical Producer: Jonny Hall Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

Jun 17, 202425 min

Is democracy working in Nigeria?

Nigeria, a nation once notorious for military rule, is marking 25 years of democracy, at a time when several of its West African neighbours have had coups in recent years. But as many Nigerians struggle to earn enough to live on, amid an economic crisis and dramatically rising prices, some appear to be very unhappy with how they are being governed. So, is democracy working in Nigeria? Also, why are young people being targeted to smoke e-cigarettes?And we'll learn more about the social media influencer from Kenya, spreading disinformation about climate change.Presenter:Charles Gitonga Technical Producer:Nick Randell Producers: Joseph Keen, Rob Wilson, Bella Hassan and Patricia Whitehorne Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

Jun 14, 202428 min

What happens when and if el-Fasher falls to rebel forces?

The United States' envoy to Sudan has warned that the fall of the besieged city of el-Fasher in western Darfur, is imminent. It's the only city still under army control in the region. What happens if the city falls? And what will the wider impact be?Also Malawi mourns the death of its Vice President and 9 other passengers folliwng an airplane crash, we'll find out more about Mr Chilima, the man and the politician.And have you ever heard of the condition gynaecomastia? We'll hear a personal testimony.Presenter: Charles Gitonga Producers: Joseph Keen, Bella Hassan, Patricia Whitehorne and Frenny Jowi Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Technical Producer: Jonathan Greer Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Jun 13, 202433 min

Why are many facing prison over debt in Tunisia?

Several hundred people are jailed in Tunisia just for writing bad cheques. Human rights campaigners are calling for Tunisia to replace this system with alternatives to prison for repaying debt.A look at the worsening relations between West African neighbours Niger and Benin.Plus, an initiative to close down orphanages in a bid to end child exploitation.

Jun 12, 202431 min

Why are two million children in northern Nigeria suffering from severe malnutrition?

Millions of children in northern Nigeria are without sufficient food, that's according to the aid agency, MSF. The persistent malnutrition crisis in the region, MSF says, stems from inflation, security issues and insufficient healthcare infrastructure. We'll hear from Dr Simba Tirima in Maiduguri.Also its almost 10 years since so-called Islamic State declared a caliphate. What's been their influence in Africa?And the growing interest of Formula 1 on the continent. Any chance of an African Grand Prix? Presenter: Charles Gitonga Producers: Bella Hassan, Rob Wilson, Emmanuela Alausa and Yvette Twagiramariya Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Technical Producer: Jonathan Greer Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Jun 11, 202428 min

How does a seat at UN Security Council benefit Somalia?

Somalia was recently elected by the United Nations General Assembly to be a member of the 15 member U.N.Security Council. This is for a two-year term starting next year. What does Somalia bring to the top table at the UN?Also, how huge quantities of gold are being smuggled out of AfricaAnd we meet the Ghanaian dance duo Afronita and Abigail who wowed a talent show in Britain.Presenter: Charles Gitonga Technical Producer: Ricardo McCarthy Producers: Bella Hassan, Rob Wilson, Yvette Twagiramariya, Daniel Dadzie, Emmanuella Alausa and Nyasha Michelle Senior Producers: Karnie Sharp and Paul Bakibinga Editors : Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

Jun 10, 202428 min

One year anniversary of the Focus on Africa Podcast

The Focus on Africa Podcast turns 1. On this special edition, we look back at the year that's been. We re-visit kidnappings in Nigeria, we head back to the Seychelles where an opposition leader was accused of witchcraft and remember the challenges and opportunities of being a first-born daughter.Presenters: Richard Kagoe and Audrey Brown Producers: Rob Wilson, Nyasha Michelle, Daniel Dadzie, Patricia Whitehorne, Stefania Okereke, Sunita Nahar, Lola Schroer, Amie Liebowitz, Nour Abida and Tom Kavanagh in London. Charles Gitonga, Susan Gachuhi, Frenny Jowi in Nairobi and Todah Opeyemi in Lagos Senior Journalists: Karnie Sharp and Paul Bakibinga Technical Producer: Jonny Hall Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

Jun 7, 202435 min

Njambi Koikai:Death of Kenyan endometriosis campaigner sheds light on painful condition.

Russia and Sudan have formally agreed to set up what they call " a logistical support point on the Red Sea". It will be Russia's first naval base in Africa. Why does Russia need a naval base close to the Red Sea?Also, a jail term for Senegalese citizens for criticising Prime Minister Sonko on gay rights. What's going on? And we'll find out more about what's it like living with endometriosis, after the popular Kenyan DJ Jahmby Koikai died from the disease. Presenter: Richard Kagoe Producers: Charles Gitonga, Yvette Twagiramariya, Bella Hassan and Joseph Keen Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Jun 6, 202430 min

What is Russia's Foreign Minister doing back in Africa?

Russia's Foreign Minister, Sergey Lavrov is back in Africa having visited the continent several times in the past couple of years. What is Russia looking for in these frequent visits to the continent? And can it help with Libya?Also, how internet scams in Nigeria are impacting the lives of teenagers in different parts of the worldAnd why Madagascans are unhappy about internet access in their country.Presenter: Richard Kagoe Producers: Charles Gitonga, Bella Hassan, Kaine Pieri and Joseph Keen Technical Producer: Chris Ablakwa Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Jun 5, 202429 min

How will Africa benefit from its relationship with South Korea?

The first-ever summit of African leaders and South Korea is underway in Seoul. South Korea has promised to boost development aid for Africa by up to $10 billion over the next six years. The country also aims to tap into Africa's rich mineral resources. How else can Africa benefit from this new forged relationship with South Korea? Also the UN warns that millions of people in Sudan are at risk of malnutrition and starvationAnd new initiatives on tackling bullying, are being discussed and planned in schools on the continent. Presenter: Richard Kagoe Producers: Nyasha Michelle, Charles Gitonga, Yvette Twagiramariya, Bella Hassan and Emmanuella Aluasa Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Jun 4, 202429 min

South Africa elections: The ANC loses its majority. What happens next?

Following last week's elections, South Africa’s ruling African National Congress, has lost its majority. The ANC now needs a coalition partner to ally with. It's begun closed-door negotiations with its political opponents, but who will it choose and why?Also Nigeria's public workers begin an indefinite nationwide strike following failed negotiations with the governmentAnd have you heard of 'adaptive' clothing? It's a new much needed fashion trend, helping people with disabilities to shop with ease.Presenter: Richard Kagoe Producers; Rob Wilson, Charles Gitonga, Susan Gachuhi, Yvette Twagiramariya and Bella Hassan Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Technical Producer: Jonathan Greer Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Jun 3, 202431 min

Will US sanctions on Ugandan officials also damage the country?

The United States has sanctioned Uganda’s parliament speaker, her husband and others over corruption and rights abuses, but will the imposed restrictions have a wider impact?After the mysterious disappearance of a Zambia parliamentarian who was later found, opposition politicians fear the country’s democracy is under threat.And why is there a power tussle between the Cameroon government and the national football federation over who should be head coach of the national team - the Indomitable Lions.

May 31, 202430 min

Nigeria: One year into President Tinubu’s term in office, how has he fared?

It's one year since Bola Tinubu became Nigeria’s President. Mr Tinubu assumed office during a time of unprecedented challenges for Africa’s most populous country. How are Nigerian's feeling about his promise of a "renewed hope"? Somalia is the only sub-Saharan country to carry out the death penalty, where according to Amnesty International executions are on the rise. What's the attitude towards the death penalty there?And Zimbabwe re-launches it's national youth programme, which aims at equipping young people with life skills. What do young Zimbabweans think? Presenter: Richard Kagoe Producers: Joseph Keen, Bella Hassan, Yvette Twagiramariya and Patricia Whitehorne Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Technical Producer: Phillip Bull Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

May 30, 202431 min

Will Burkina Faso ever become democratic?

The military junta in Burkina Faso extends its military rule for another five years. So does this mean it is consolidating its power?There have been chaotic scenes in Sierra Leone during the Bar Association’s ballot for a powerful executive, deeply steeped in the country’s politics, and Gen Z’s desire for promotion in the South African workplace – what are employers doing to accommodate them?

May 29, 202429 min

What's behind the rise in violent crime in Kenya?

It's getting easier to access illegal arms in Kenya which has led to the rise in violent crime, especially in more deprived areas. What's fuelling the rise in gun crime? Also, why is Ghana turning to nuclear power?And a documentary explores the reality African students face when they choose to study abroad.Presenter: Richard Kagoe Producers: Charles Gitonga, Bella Hassan, Yvette Twagiramariya and Rob Wilson Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

May 28, 202428 min

What does Kenya’s non-NATO ally status mean?

Kenya has been designated the status of non-NATO ally by the US President Joe Biden, making it the first sub-Saharan African country to receive that designation. Learn what it means for Kenya and more widely for Africa.How an initiative in West Africa is improving accountability and transparency in the extraction sector, and a Namibian activist who is advocating for the end of fossil fuels in Africa.

May 27, 202427 min

Is there a growing risk of genocide in El-Fasher?

The besieged city of El-Fasher in Sudan's Darfur region, is facing a growing risk of genocide as the world's attention is focused on other conflicts, that's the warning from a United Nations expert. Alice Wairimu Nderitu told the BBC, many civilians have been targeted based on their ethnicity in El-Fasher, where fierce fighting has intensified in recent days. What constitutes a genocide?Also why some of the main political parties in South Africa have raised concern about the rise in illegal immigration ahead of the general electionsAnd we meet 18 year old Helms Ategeka from Uganda who has broken the internet after being accepted into over 120 colleges in the United States! Presenter: Richard Kagoe Producer: Frenny Jowi, Toda Opeyemi, Rob Wilson, Yvette Twagiramariya, Bella Hassan and Sunita Nahar. Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Technical Producer: Daniela Victoria Varela Hernandez Editors are Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

May 24, 202428 min

How can genetically engineered mosquitoes stop malaria?

The first batch of genetically modified mosquitoes is being released in Djibouti in a bid to stop the spread of malaria carrying vectors that bite during the day and thrive in urban areas. How does this work?Also, an overview of South Africa's 'historic' elections. Who are the main parties and what are the issues? And scientists trace the origins of one of Africa's most iconic trees, the baobab tree, to Madagascar. Why are they in decline on the Island? Presenter: Richard Kagoe Producers: Charles Gitonga, Frenny Jowi, Rob Wilson and Paul Bakibinga Technical Producer: Daniela Victoria Varela Hernandez Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

May 23, 202430 min

How are EU funds enabling abuses against migrants in North Africa?

Hundreds of migrants from Sub-Saharan Africa are being arrested and deported to desert areas in Morocco, Tunisia and Mauritania using funds made available by the European Union. An investigation by eight international news organisations says the migrants also face human rights abuses as countries try to stop them from reaching Europe.Also how illegal logging is funding the insurgency in Northern MozambiqueAnd a Kenyan mother's desperate attempt to help save her son from execution in Saudi Arabia.

May 22, 202432 min

Is Kenya still on course to deploy police officers to Haiti?

At least 200 Kenyan police officers are set to arrive in Haiti as part of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission. This decision coincides with the current visit by President Ruto to the United States. Have sufficient preparations being made on the ground in Haiti to receive the troops? Also , there is renewed hope that a fresh round of talks can lead to lasting peace in South Sudan.And how effective is the ECOWAS court of justice?Presenter: Richard Kagoe Producers: Frenny Jowi, Charles Gitonga, Rob Wilson and Paul Bakibinga Technical Producer: Craig Kingham Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

May 21, 202427 min

Who are the men behind an attempted coup in DR Congo ?

The Democratic Republic of Congo says it has quashed an attempted coup on Sunday. The army said the group of people behind the attempted coup were foreigners or Congolese citizens based abroad. Who are these men and why would they want to topple the government?Also, are Universities on the continent doing enough to inspire the next generation?And meet Lord Spikeheart, the heavy metal music artist from Kenya, yes, from Kenya!Presenter: Richard Kagoe Producers: Patricia Whitehorn, Rob Wilson, Nyasha Michelle and Bella Hassan Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Technical Producer: Jonathan Greer Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

May 20, 202432 min

Ethiopia: Why is the US calling for a ceasefire?

The United States has called for a temporary nationwide ceasefire following continued fighting between the national army and armed groups in Oromia and Amhara regions. The US alleges that the armed groups target schools, health centres and water infrastructure.Why has Gabon's deposed President Ali Bongo gone on hunger strike?And Audrey speaks to legendary singer-songwriter Stevie Wonder after he was granted Ghanaian citizenship earlier this week!Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Rob Wilson, Karnie Sharp,Bella Hassan, Charles Gitonga and Paul Bakibinga Technical Producers : Jonny Hall and Daniela Victoria Varela Hernandez Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard.

May 17, 202429 min

Gambia: Why has Ousman Sonko been sentenced to 20 years in prison?

A Swiss court has sentenced ex-Gambian minister,Ousman Sonko to 20 years in prison for crimes against humanity. Mr Sonko fled to Switzerland in 2016. He was arrested and had been in custody since 2017, after a human rights group based in Geneva filed a criminal complaint against him. Audrey speaks with Fatoumatta Sandeng, the daughter of the tortured opposition leader, Ebrima Solo Sandeng. Also why are some South Africans not happy about a new law which provides equal access to healthcare for all citizens? And a conversation with the Cameroonian-American singer Libianca, who received death threats for waving a flag.Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Rob Wilson, Richard Kagoe, Yvette Twagiramariya and Bella Hassan Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Technical Producer: Jonathan Greer Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

May 16, 202434 min

How can more Africans access clean cooking?

Over 2 billion people rely on polluting fuels to prepare meals, the UN Secretary-General warns at a summit on clean cooking in Africa. We hear from a young female environmentalist in Malawi with a solution. Calls for an end to the abuse of power in Tunisia after a police raid on the Tunisian Bar Association headquarters and the arrest of two prominent lawyers. And a Ghanaian influencer speaks out on plans to tax income earned on international platforms.

May 15, 202429 min

Chad: Why are the election results being challenged?

Chad’s opposition leader, Succès Masra says he is challenging the preliminary results of the recent presidential election. Preliminary results show President Mahamat Deby won with just over 61% of the vote and the runner-up Succès Masra had just over 18%. So why are the results being challenged? Also why are South Africans enjoying a sustained period of electricity supply? Is it because of upcoming elections or has the main electricity supplier Eskom, changed things around? Former CEO of Eskom, Andre De Ruyter shares his view with Audrey. And why do Kenyans think that the song "Zakayo" by Tanzanian gospel singer Christina Shusho is really about them?Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Victor Sylver, Rob Wilson, Bella Hassan and Richard Kagoe Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Technical Producer: Chris Ablakwa Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

May 14, 202432 min

Does Somalia still need a UN mission?

The Somali government has asked the U.N. Security Council to end the U.N. political mission in Somalia that has been helping the war-ravaged country since 2013. Can Somalia afford to go it alone? Why is Nigeria's Senate calling for the death penalty for drug trafficking?And concern that African penguins are facing gradual extinction.Presenter : Audrey Brown Producers: Charles Gitonga, Richard Kagoe, Rob Wilson and Paul Bakibinga Technical Producer: Craig Kingham Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

May 13, 202428 min

Why are there concerns of ethnic cleansing in Darfur?

Human Rights Watch says ethnic cleansing has taken place in El Geneina against the Massalit and non-Arab residents. What's the evidence? Also, after more than three billion doses, the Oxford-AstraZeneca Covid vaccine won't be manufactured anymore. Why is that, and how will this affect future vaccine uptake in Africa?And we explore attitudes to twins from Igbo Bora, a small rural community in southwest Nigeria which has an extraordinarily high number of them!Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Bella Hassan, Victor Sylver, Charles Gitonga and Rob Wilson Senior Producer: Karnie harp Technical Producer: Jonathan Greer Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

May 10, 202433 min

Why have Kenyan government doctors agreed to end strike?

Kenyan government doctors have signed an agreement to return to work in a bid to end a strike that started nearly 2 months ago. However, not all the doctors' demands have been met.Thousands of Sudanese refugees flee two UN camps in Ethiopia due to security concerns.And South Africa initiates plans to regulate the use of Artificial Intelligence.Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Charles Gitonga, Richard Kagoe, Susan Gachuhi, Rob Wilson and Paul Bakibinga Technical Producer: Jonathan Greer Editors : Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

May 9, 202426 min

West Africa: which country will US and French troops move to next?

As the defence partnership between countries in the Sahel and the US and France ends, there's curiosity about which West African country will offer a base for French and US troops. Why is it important for these forces to have a base in West Africa? Also we revist the plight of migrants in Libya, after 107 people, including women and children are freed from captivity.And Audrey chats to ‘The Queen of Afrobeat'....singer-songwriter and actress, Tiwa Savage!Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Charles Gitonga, Bella Hassan, Rob Wilson and Yvette Twagiramariya Technical Producer: Jonathan Greer Senior Producer: Karnie Sharp Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

May 8, 202435 min

Why was Eliud Kipchoge a trolling victim?

Two time Olympic champion marathon runner Eliud Kipchoge has been speaking to the BBC about the impact of social media abuse on him and his family.Togo's ruling party wins a parliamentary majority in legislative elections, is President Faure Gnassingbé set to extend his time in power?And can the tropical modernism architectural style help face the challenge of climate change?Presenter:Audrey Brown Producers:Patricia Whitehorne, Rob Wilson,Bella Hassan, Victor Sylver and Paul Bakibinga Technical Producer: Jonny Hall Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

May 7, 202431 min

East Africa Floods: Have governments done enough?

Hundreds of people have been killed and thousands remain displaced across east Africa. Kenya and Tanzania escaped major damage from cyclone Hidaya, over the weekend, but they remain at risk of further flooding and landslides. Have governments done enough?Also why has the place of birth been removed from the passports of a group of people born in the Chagos Islands?And what's going on between Wizkid and Davido?Presenter: Daniel Dadzie Producers: Audrey Brown, Bella Hassan and Charles Gitonga Technical Producer: Phillip Bull Senior Producer: Karnie Sharp Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

May 6, 202429 min

Why are US soldiers  leaving Chad?

The U.S. has withdrawn its troops from Chad, this follows a similar move in neighbouring Niger. The head of the US Africa Command says it was "temporary repositioning" of troops. What does he mean and how damaging is this to global security interests?Also why is there growing concern for the safety of children in South Africa?And cyclone Hidaya is expected to make landfall on the East African Coast, affecting mainly the already flooded countries of Tanzania and Kenya. How prepared are they?Presenter: Richard Kagoe Producers: Charles Gitonga, Bella Hassan, Richard Kagoe and Paul Bakibinga Technical Producer: Jonathan Greer Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

May 3, 202426 min

Why has an arrest warrant been issued for CAR's ex-president?

A UN-backed special court has issued an international arrest warrant for the former president of the Central African Republic, François Bozizé. This is in connection with an investigation into his alleged involvement in crimes against humanity committed by soldiers in a prison between 2009 and 2013. We'll get the details.Also why are gunmen guarding cocoa crops in Uganda?And a big victory for a small indigenous community in South Africa, who won a Goldman Environmental Prize for standing up to a multinational company.Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Rob Wilson, Charles Gitonga, Paul Bakibinga. Senior Producer: Karnie Sharp Technical Producer: Nick Randell Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

May 2, 202430 min

Why is there International concern about Al-Fashir in Sudan?

The U.S. has warned of a looming potential "large scale massacre" in Al-Fashir, a city in Sudan. The United Nations says it's also concerned about a possible imminent attack. What's going on? Also state TV in Mali says the senior IS commander, Abu Huzeifa, who had a 5 million dollar bounty on his head has been killed by troops from Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger. Who was he and why is his death being seen as significant? And we meet the award winning Cameroonian conservationist saving manatees.Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Victor Sylver, Rob Wilson, Patricia Whitehorne, Bella Hassan and Paul Bakibinga Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

May 1, 202430 min

Kenya Floods: Why wasn't Nairobi better prepared and will President Ruto declare a state of emergency?

More than 160 people are now known to have been killed by weeks of flooding in Kenya following torrential rain, that's according to officials. We'll hear from the Kenyan President, William Ruto.Also former UK diplomat, Tim Cole, says it's time to reset London's relationship with Africa. What would that new relationship look like? And we meet young Africans pushing the boundaries of representation in the gaming industry!Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Charles Gitonga, Bella Hassan, Patricia Whitehorn, Nyasha Michelle and Rob Wilson Technical Producer: Jonathan Greer Senior Producer: Karnie Sharp Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Apr 30, 202436 min

How do South Africans feel as they mark 30 years of democracy?

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It is 30 years since South Africa held its first democratic elections. Three decades on, is it hope or gloom for the 'rainbow nation'?Also did a national emergency against sexual violence set up 5 years ago, make any difference in Sierra Leone?And we meet the Ghanaian artist Ibrahim Mahama, using cloth to wrap up the brutalist Barbican centre in London and revealing a hidden history. Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Rob Wilson, Patricia Whitehorne, Nyasha Michelle and Paul Bakibinga Editors :Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Apr 29, 202437 min

Alleged killings by Burkina Faso's military: What does the HRW report say?

More than 220 civilians, including at least 56 children, were massacred by Burkina Faso's military in a single day this year. That's the allegation by Human Rights Watch. So, how did HRW reach this conclusion and what's the response from the Burkina Faso government?Also why is the DR Congo warning big tech companies, like Apple, to not use minerals from the eastern part of the country? And we meet Nigerian Afrobeats artist, Ayra Starr!Presenter: Richard Kagoe Producers: Charles Gitonga, Stefania Okereke and Bella Hassan Technical Producer: Danny Cox Senior Producer: Karnie Sharp Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Apr 26, 202431 min

Why has the World Bank suspended a Tanzania tourism project fund?

The World Bank has suspended a multi million dollar fund to expand Ruaha National Park in Tanzania, after it received allegations of serious abuse, which the Tanzanian government denies. We'll get the details. What is cloud seeding, how does it work and can drought stricken parts of Africa benefit from it or not? And a personal testimony from someone living with disability in a South Sudan refugee camp.

Apr 25, 202431 min

Does Africa need a rethink on tackling violent extremisim?

African leaders meeting at a security summit in Nigeria says the continent needs a new plan to tackle violent extremism. The two-day counter-terrorism summit, supported by the United Nations, was also attended by African Union Chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat What are the challenges facing the continent and how can it be tackled? Also why is so little money spent on healthcare in Africa? And a plan to save the South African rhino as poaching numbers rise.Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Bella Hassan and Charles Gitonga Technical Producer: Jonathan Greer Senior Producer: Karnie Sharp Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Apr 24, 202434 min