Focus on Africa

Kenya is now a common transit route for undocumented migrant workers to try and reach the southern tip of the continent, and particularly South Africa, says the UN’s migration agency.The Church of England explains how it will repair the damage caused by their links to the slave trade. And it is the end of Nigeria's favourite TV family - The Johnsons. Director and lead actor Charles Inojie tells us the sitcom portrayed the average African home, with issues that every family could relate to.

Hundreds of thousands of people were killed in Liberia's civil wars and the Truth and Reconcialition Committee proposed war a crimes tribunal but why has it not been established yet?Cameroonians struggle to cope as food and fuel prices continue to rise.And what are the benefits and advantages of women-led health tech companies?

A leading critic of Chad's military leader, Mahamat Déby, has been killed in a shootout with security forces, that's according to officials Yaya Dillo's death comes after the government blamed him for a deadly attack on the country's security agency. He had denied the accusation. Several others were killed following that attack. What's going on?Also, fresh calls for a proper investigation into the killing of 21-year-old Agnes Wanjiru and a letter to King Charles.And a Cameroonian student who fled Ukraine tells us what life is like for him, two years after the conflict began.

Ghana ‘s parliament unanimously passed a controversial anti-LGBTQ+ bill that could get some people sent to prison for 10 years. Is the proposed law constitutional and is it really about promoting family values?Concern grows in South Africa over how children access guns. And what is circular finance, and can it help with environmental issues?

According to the Libyan government, militias have agreed to leave Libya's capital, Tripoli, following lengthy negotiations. The deal comes after a series of deadly clashes in the city in recent months. The country has been battered by armed groups who emerged after the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011. How will the deal work?Also, following the tragic death of a zookeeper at a Nigerian university, we'll find out how and why Universities across the country have zoos?And why did Algeria decide to build the largest mosque in Africa?

Malawi's influential Catholic Bishops have written a letter criticising President Lazarus Chakwera's government. They say the country is worse off now. than it was four years ago. The government has acknowledged the issues raised by the church. Also how widespread is the recruitment of child soldiers in Africa?And we hear the second half of the story of the Nigerian student who fled Ukraine two years ago, at the start of the war.

There's been a rise in the number of people attempting the dangerous Atlantic crossing from West Africa to Europe. Migrants are once again returning to Mauritania, which is struggling to cope with the growing numbers. Why are migrants choosing Mauritania?Also, we'll hear a personal and distressing story of how a Nigerian student fled Ukraine and made her way across Europe when the war broke out two years ago.And why are more African countries growing bamboo?

More than 100 mothers in Uganda have been given community service for allowing their children to beg on the streets of Kampala. We hear more about why street-begging is a huge issue in the country and how most are from a particular region where they are sold as a commodity.Senegal’s President Macky Sall says he will stand down on 2 April when his term in office expires, but he has not announced a new date for the presidential election. So what will happen next? And we hear from a Tanzanian student, who fled Ukraine two years ago when Russia invaded, but now she has returned to complete her medical studies, even though the war rages on.

South Africa's finance minister Enoch Godongwana, acknowledged that the country's economy is facing 'a tipping point'. There's massive youth unemployment in South Africa and this recent forecast won't be favourable to young people. We hear reaction and look at possible solutions.Also, Somalia signs a military and economic deal with Turkey. What's the deal and why has it angered Somaliland? And Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso want to form their own economic bloc, away from Ecowas. Can it work?

The rebranded Russian mercenary group Wagner offers Niger a regime survival package

There's anger in Nigeria as food prices continue to rise. Some people have taken to the streets in protest. Inflation is at its highest the country has seen for a generation, at almost 30%. How is the government dealing with the problem? Also, Kenya's shilling strengthened against the dollar a few days ago, making it Africa's top performing currency. It caused excitement in the country. What's going on, is it all good news?And African leaders decide on a continent wide ban on the trade in donkey skins. We'll hear fascinating facts about donkeys that you don't quite expect!

The African Union urges action on instability and condemns coups on the continent

Despite being an energy-rich country, Nigeria has been experiencing widespread blackouts and power cuts. We hear from the former boss of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission on what needs to be done to fix the national grid. Also, we meet the lawyer who defies threats of violence, to defend people sentenced to death for blasphemy under Sharia law. And what is the best way to handle cyberbullies? We hear a personal account of being abused online, and get a few tips from an anti-bullying campaigner.

Racheal Kundananji becomes the most expensive women's footballer after a record transfer fee of $860,000 is paid. Will this pave the way for better pay for women football players?With successful hosting of the recently ended AFCON tournament in Ivory Coast, we explore how sport can be an effective tool in peace building.And why is there an initiative to stop the illicit trade in tobacco around the world?

Senegal’s President Macky Sall is coming under increasing pressure from West African leaders and the international community to reverse a decision to postpone the presidential election. He is accused of putting the country’s democratic path on to “a dead end”. We find out why some asthma inhalers are environmentally unfriendly.And what was reggae icon Bob Marley really like? We hear from the veteran Zimbabwean broadcaster John Matinde, who hung out with him during the country's independence celebrations in 1980.

There has been a resurgence of fighting in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo involving rebels from the ethnic Tutsi-led M23 movement. Thousands of civilians have fled the violence. What is behind this latest escalation and what do the rebels want?Nurses and midwives in Nigeria protest new rules for verifying their qualifications to foreign nursing boards.Why are cases of prostate cancer increasing in South Africa ?

The just concluded Africa Cup of Nations has been hailed as a huge success but what will be the lasting legacy for the host nation, Ivory Coast.Is chemical castration the solution? Madagascar’s parliament has approved a law allowing for the chemical or surgical castration of those found guilty of the rape of a minor. And sadness in the world of athletics as the men's marathon world record holder, Kenyan Kelvin Kiptum, dies in a car crash.

The Ugandan government says it's involved in rescue efforts to secure the release of at least 30 citizens still caught in scam compounds in Myanmar. Also, why are mllions of people still battling tropical diseases on the continet? And does Zanzibar, a popular tourist destination, have an alcohol shortage?

Zimbabwe's government has moved to abolish the death penalty, nearly two decades after the country's last execution. Last year, Ghana become the 29th country in Africa to do the same. So, is Africa leading the way when it comes to abolishment? Also, why do conversations about Menopause matter? And the award winning Mozambican Mayor determined to make his city the most sustainable in Africa.

The African Mining Indaba 2024 on how to invest in the African mining sector, is taking place in Cape Town, South Africa. Who benefits the most from the continent's expansive mining industry and is investment in mineral processing in the continent on course? There is an increase of cases of Dementia in Africa. According to one recent report, dementia will affect over three million people in sub-Saharan Africa by 2030. Countries in the region have the fastest growing older population in the world. Is the continent equipped to deal with the rise in numbers? And we probe the rivalry between Nigeria and South Africa as they argue over who is better at entertainment..and football!

Senegelese President Mackay Sall, shocked the country over the weekend by announcing that the upcoming February 26th election would be delayed. This led to protests and a vote by lawmakers, agreeing to extend the Presidents tenure and delay elections until December. Is this move lawful? Also, Botswana often tops the list as Africa's least corrupt country, so what is it doing differently?And how did former president Nelson Mandela’s personal belongings end up in an auction?

After the huge gas explosion and fire that engulfed buildings and cars, killing at least six people and injuring scores of others, we hear from Nairobi County Governor Sakaja Johnson, on what action is being taken to investigate officials accused of being "incompetent and corrupt". Ethiopia is on the brink of famine triggered by war and drought warns a UK government minister. We hear more from the BBC’s diplomatic correspondent who has been visiting Ayder hospital in Mekelle, the capital of Ethiopia's Tigray region. And history making at the Grammys, as South African singer Tyla picks up the first ever award for best African performance.

As Facebook looks to celebrate its 20th birthday on Sunday, we look at its appeal on the continent. What do Africans think about the social media platform?Also Tunisia positions itself as a competitive destination for medical tourism And Ethiopia wants to ban fuel imported cars for personal use, replacing it with electric ones but, does it have the infrastructure to do this?

Political analyst Kholood Khair assesses Tagadum, a civilian initiative lead by former Sudan Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok seeking to bring the two fighting generals to the peace table.Should the rules to reducing carbon emissions, be different for African countries? And we reflect on the legacy of Ghanaian pioneer photographer Bruce Vanderpuije.

The Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni says, Italy wants a new partnership with Africa with the aim of boosting economic ties, creating an energy hub for Europe and curbing immigration. How much will this new vision benefit the continent? Also, why are so many women in Mozambique still dying from unsafe abortions despite the country's liberal abortion laws?And Banyana Banyana player Amanda Dlamini on what's like being the first female commentator at AFCON.

Over 500,000 people from Sudan are seeking refuge in South Sudan. Women in Kenya on why they’re rising their voice against femicideAnd hear Zimbabwe's opposition leader, Nelson Chamisa on his next political move.

Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger quit Ecowas , a Lagos resident recalls her harrowing experience of kidnapping and we meet from the youngest-ever female photographer at Afcon, who is capturing the game's beautiful moments.

Musician turned politician Bobi Wine has received an Oscar nomination for a documentary on his political struggle in Uganda. Why does he continue despite the dangers, hardship and challenges? A surprising confession at an enquiry into a deadly fire in South Africa The latest from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations as it enters the knockout stage

There's been heavy fighting between Somali forces and Al Shabaab fighters in the central region of Mudug. Last year ,the government said it had shifted its tactics against the militant group. Are those tactics working?Also, what is the local response after Cameroon becomes the first country in the world to start routine vaccinations against malaria. And Zambian poet, Vanessa Chisakula, on telling stories through performance poetry.

Could Africa's leaders be too old to lead the world's youngest population? The continent's newest democratically elected president Liberia's Joseph Boakai is 79We meet Ghanaian Lesley Lokko the first African woman to win the prestigious gold medal for services to architecture.And learn about British-Nigerian rapper Skepta's directorial debut with the short film Tribal Mark.Audio for this episode was updated on 24th January 2024.

The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is visiting four countries in Africa. What does the US want from its relationship with the continent and who benefits? Also will raising the age of consent in Zimbabwe reduce sexual abuse? And with Afcon in full swing, we look at the health of African footballers.

Joseph Boakai has started a six-year term as president of Liberia. He is the third democratically elected head of state. Tackling corruption and the economy are expected to be his immediate challenges.What's behind the sewage polluted beaches along the Durban coastline in South Africa?And the Somali songs inciting hatred against Ethiopians

Violent crime is soaring in South Africa, with the murder rate at a 20-year high. Getting away with murder has become normal. What's going on?Also how did Tanzania come to be ranked as the least indebted country in Africa? What did they do differently?And why have authorities in Nigeria warned against using the pidgin English term, “No gree for anybody”? It's triggered an online debate!

A Sierra Leone high court has allowed ex-president Ernest Bai Koroma, charged with treason, to travel abroad on medical grounds. Mr. Koroma was charged for his alleged role in a failed military coup in November.The Non-Aligned Movement summit is currently underway in Uganda. Is it still relevant?And the 'Cranky uncle ' game now tackling vaccine hesitancy in Africa.

More than 200 people have starved to death since July in Ethiopia's drought-hit and war-scarred Tigray region, local authorities say. Officials warn the region is on the brink of famine on a scale last seen in 1984. How did Tigray return to this desperate situation? Also why are Nigerians turning to crowdfunding to pay for ransoms?And what does it mean to be Black, African and British? How African migration is shaping politics, faith, business and culture in the UK.

Zambia is battling one of its worst cholera outbreaks in recent years. More than 300 people have died and nearly 6,000 active cases have been registered.Why did Nigeria’s Central Bank dissolve boards of three lenders?And the young Ghanaian entrepreneur using solar technology to help farmers protect their produce from wastage

Burundi has closed its borders with Rwanda after accusing its neighbour of funding rebel attacks. Rwandan President Paul Kagame denies the charge, but Burundi's government has branded him a "bad neighbour". Can the two neigbours overcome their differences?Also a report on migrant workers facing forced labour and exploitation in MauritiusAnd a doctor from Sierra Leone tells us how his country and developing countries can hold onto their health care workers.

Cape Verde becomes the first sub-Saharan country to get rid of the deadly malaria disease in 50 yearsWhy is South Africa aiming to legislate for proper labelling of foodstuffs? And the anticipation and excitement of the African Cup of Nations which kicks off in Ivory Coast this weekend !

Voters in Comoros head to the polls on Sunday to elect the next president. The incumbent Azali Assoumani is seeking a fourth term, but who are his main challengers? The African Cup of Nations (AFCON) kicks off in the Ivorian capital, Abidjan, this Sunday, but next time hosts Kenya did not qualify for this year’s tournament. Former Kenyan international Musa Otieno says the game’s infrastructure in the country needs to improve. And Knives down, Gloves up, we hear from a young man with Ivorian and Guinean heritage, on the connection between good mental health and sport and why he established a boxing club after a lifechanging act of violence.

South Africa is taking Israel to the ICJ in the Hague. Pretoria alleges that genocide is being committed against Palestinians during the Gaza conflict. So far more than 23,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel's operation against Hamas militants.Are Ethiopians in Somalia and Somaliland now living in fear as tensions rise between Mogadishu and Hargeisa after a seaport access deal ? And the future of Artificial Intelligence in Africa.

President Ruto’s flagship visa-free policy for all visitors to Kenya has come into effect, but travellers are finding that it is not working as expected. Five years after Cyclone Idai devastated lives and livelihoods in Mozambique, how are people in the areas that were worst affected doing now? And we hear from the Ghanaian tennis photographer whose images of young African players captured the admiration of one of the sport’s all-time greats - Serena Williams.

A BBC investigation has uncovered evidence of widespread abuse by the founder of one of the world's biggest evangelical churches the late TB Joshua. Former members accuse him of rape, torture and forced abortions. As Senegalese courts deal blow to opposition leader Ousmane Sonko's presidential hopes, What does this portend for the coming elections?And why is the Nigerian government on a crackdown of fake degrees?

Troops from the Southern African Development Community (Sadc), that includes Malawi, South Africa and Tanzania, have been deployed to eastern Democratic Republic of Congo to fight the M23 and other armed groups. They have replaced the UN mission Monusco and an east African force that was deemed to be ineffective. Can Sadc succeed in reducing instability in the region?Thousands of unaccompanied children were among record numbers of irregular migrants who arrived in Spain last year. Amnesty International in Spain says the authorities there are overwhelmed.And nine months on from the outbreak of hostilities between rival military factions in Sudan, what is life like for ordinary citizens? We hear from one resident in the capital, Khartoum.

Why was Sierra Leone's ex-president Ernest Bai Koroma charged with treason ? He has denied any involvement in an attack which killed about 20 people last November.Where next for Chad after a contested constitutional referendum vote?And renowned cellist Abel Selaocoe on how South African oral traditions are connected to classical music.

Somalia has described an agreement that landlocked Ethiopia made with the self-declared republic of Somaliland over sea access as “an act of aggression”. What are the implications for the entire Horn of Africa region? A new succession battle for the Zulu throne has been triggered after a court in South Africa ruled that President Cyril Ramaphosa's official crowning of the new Zulu king last year was unlawful. And we hear why analysts are bullish about online gaming in Africa and believe the market is set to hit the billion-dollar mark by the end of this year.

As South Africa battles increased load shedding, could nuclear energy be the answer to address the crisis?And the BBC's Ian Wafula's backstory to Africa Eye's investigation into how members of the LGBT community in Nigeria are being targeted by criminal gangsAnd we talk to the award-winning Somali director Ahmed Farah on his debut feature film-Ayaalne

The new year 2024, marks significant anniversaries for two countries. It is 30 years since South Africa held its first democratic election, signalling the dismantling of centuries of violent colonial and racial domination. At the same time, Rwanda was descending into a genocide that would leave up to a million people dead. Today we look back to that time to see how Rwanda and South Africa navigated those years. And Afrobeats has always been popular among the people who made the music. But last year the milestones kept piling up. So what does 2024 have in store for the music genre? We hear from the host of the UK Afrobeats chart show Eddie Kadi, and the Nigerian superstar nicknamed the Queen of Afrobeats, Yemi Alade.

The fighting that erupted in Sudan on 15 April this year between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), continues unabated. We hear from the BBC's Mohanad Hashim who has been covering the conflict from the start. It is more than a story to him. It involves his homeland, his family, and his compatriots.Also, we meet Idiat Shiole, the 3D virtual fashion designer and creator of multiple AI models, representing a broader range of African women on the virtual catwalk.And a look back at Africa's sporting triumphs in 2023!

The Internationally acclaimed South African playwright, producer and composer Mbongeni Ngema has died in a car accident at the age of 68. He was best known for writing the award-winning musical Sarafina, starring Whoopi Goldberg and Miriam Makeba. It was nominated for both the Tony and Grammy Awards. We look back at the legacy of Mbongeni Ngema.Also, part two of the discussion on coups and democracies on the continent with the Director of the Africa Programme of the International Crisis Group, Murithi Mutiga.And in the run up to the Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast early next year, is the set piece 'Club versus Country' still being debated?

The Nigerian government is providing free train rides and a 50% reduction in public bus fares over the festive period. So, what's been the reaction from Nigerians? Also with a series of coups and major civil unrests across Africa, we are asking if democratic gains made over the last few decades are being reversed.And a look back at the horrific fire that killed up to 80 people in Johannesburg last August.