Africa Hour

As South Africa prepares for Tourism Month in September, the provinces of Northern Cape, Free State and Eastern Cape have come together to explore how collaboration and digital innovation can help grow the tourism sector. Officials from the three provinces launched the Tri-Provincial Tourism Month 2026 campaign in Colesberg in the Northern Cape. The initiative aims to strengthen regional cooperation, promote tourism products, and enhance visitor experiences through the use of digital technologies and joint marketing efforts. Nhlanhla Mahlangu attended the launch and filed this report.

A United Nations committee says countries have ongoing legal obligations to address the lasting effects of slavery and racial discrimination, including considering reparations and other measures aimed at redressing historical injustices. For Africa, the development raises important questions about inequality, development and the long-term impact of historical systems of exploitation. As countries pursue economic growth and social transformation, some argue that addressing the legacy of slavery and racial discrimination remains essential to achieving inclusive and sustainable development. It also raises questions about whether the African Union’s Agenda 2063 vision of a prosperous, integrated and people-centred Africa can be fully realised without confronting historical inequalities and their continuing effects on societies across the continent. Mpho Sithole spoke to thought leader, public policy advocate and community organiser Ahmed Olusegun Badmus, whose work focuses on good governance and Africa’s renaissance.

Tensions between Iran and the United States are escalating, with Iranian state television broadcasting footage of what it says were ballistic missiles fired at US bases in Jordan, following US strikes on Iranian rocket launchers in the Strait of Hormuz. The United Arab Emirates has also reported intercepting an Iranian drone. The latest developments come after Washington indicated it would rely on economic pressure, raising concerns that the conflict could widen and disrupt vital energy and shipping routes in the region. Mpho Sithole spoke to Amir Bagherioromi, an Independent Analyst, to assess the latest developments and what they could mean.

As Women's Month comes to an end in South Africa, the country's Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, says the mandate of the National Council on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF Council) will include coordinating a national, multisectoral response to gender-based violence and femicide. Chikunga was briefing the media in Pretoria on the progress made in operationalising the GBVF Council. Thuto Ngobeni has the report.

Journalists from across the southern African region are being equipped with new investigative and radio reporting skills as the Wits Centre for Journalism hosts the WCJ/IMA Radio and Investigative Journalism Project Training Workshop in Johannesburg, South Africa. The training comes at a time when businesses, governments and communities are demanding greater transparency and accountability. Participants are receiving practical skills aimed at strengthening investigative reporting, improving storytelling, and enhancing the quality of public interest journalism across the region. Our Reporter, Innocent Semosa, explores how stronger investigative journalism can contribute to better governance and a healthier business environment.

Niger’s capital, Niamey, is calm again after a 24-hour mutiny threatened the military junta. Dozens of soldiers were reportedly killed or arrested amid growing frustration over jihadist violence and conditions within the armed forces. Russia’s Africa Corps reportedly helped junta forces regain control, raising fresh questions about Niger’s growing reliance on Moscow. The developments have renewed focus on Russia’s expanding military role in the Sahel and the extent to which Niger’s military government depends on Russian support for its survival. What does this failed mutiny reveal about the stability of Niger’s junta and the broader security situation in the Sahel? Mpho Sithole spoke to Lassané Ouedraogo, an analyst specialising in international law and Francophone West Africa.

Guinea-Bissau is heading towards a potentially significant constitutional referendum on August 30, less than a year after a military coup disrupted the country's presidential election process. The proposed constitution would significantly strengthen the powers of the presidency. Under the proposed changes, Parliament would be reduced from 102 to 65 seats, while electoral constituencies would be cut from 29 to 12. Presidential candidates would also be required to prove that they have lived permanently in Guinea-Bissau for the previous five years. Critics argue that these changes could weaken Parliament, reduce political representation and concentrate power in the presidency, raising broader questions about democratic governance in a region already facing a series of military takeovers. To unpack what is happening in Guinea-Bissau, what it means for ECOWAS and regional democratic norms, and whether West Africa is witnessing another shift away from constitutional democracy, Mpho Sithole spoke to Lassané Ouedraogo, an analyst specialising in Francophone West Africa and international law.

As the impacts of climate change become increasingly difficult for businesses to ignore, companies are under growing pressure to demonstrate that their climate action is measurable, credible and delivering real emissions reductions. One area undergoing significant change is the carbon market, with businesses increasingly exploring tokenised carbon credits that use blockchain technology and real-time data to improve transparency, traceability and verification. However, beyond the technology, a broader climate question remains: do these systems actually contribute to meaningful emissions reductions, or do they simply make carbon offsetting easier to trade? Mpho Sithole spoke to Bongiwe Mbunge, Lead Sustainability Partner for Forvis Mazars Africa, to examine how technology is changing carbon markets and whether these innovations can help businesses respond more effectively to climate change.

The two-day Pan African Women in Health (PAWH) 2026 conference is currently underway in Johannesburg, South Africa. It has brought together women already working in the health sector, as well as those with a keen interest in the field, from various parts of the African continent. The conference organisers say the event is a strategic investment in the leadership and influence of African women, moving beyond dialogue towards collective action and greater visibility. Key conference pillars include amplifying leadership and fostering cross-sector collaboration. To hear more about the conference and the work of PAWH, Mpho Sithole spoke to Belinda Ngongo, Founder and Executive Director of the Pan African Women in Health (PAWH).

South Africa and Brazil have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation, with Foreign Ministers Ronald Lamola and Mauro Vieira saying progress is being made in implementing existing agreements. The Joint Commission served as a platform for the two countries to review their bilateral relations, assess progress in existing areas of cooperation, and explore new opportunities to further strengthen the South Africa-Brazil Strategic Partnership. Channel Africa's Reporter Michael Mbewe filed this report.

The United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) are renewing calls for stricter controls on autonomous weapons. The two organisations warn that advances in artificial intelligence are bringing the world closer to a point where machines could make life-and-death decisions without meaningful human intervention. The appeal comes ahead of a key international meeting on conventional weapons scheduled for November, where governments are expected to discuss the legal, ethical and humanitarian implications of autonomous weapons systems. The UN and ICRC argue that stronger international rules are needed to ensure accountability and maintain human control over the use of force. Channel Africa’s Lebogang Mabange reports.

Liberia is facing one of the most significant political and criminal justice developments in its recent history after former Vice President Jewel Howard-Taylor was charged with drug trafficking, money laundering, criminal conspiracy and other offences linked to an alleged transnational narcotics network. Authorities say the arrest forms part of a wider crackdown on organized drug trafficking, coming just weeks after the country's largest-ever cocaine seizure, valued at approximately 317 million US dollars and reportedly destined for Europe. Howard-Taylor, who served as vice president between 2018 and 2024, was detained while attempting to leave the country, while the government insists that no individual is above the law. Mpho Sithole spoke to Alphanso G. Kalama a journalist based in Liberia.

Zambia's post-election tensions have escalated after opposition presidential candidate Brian Mundubile alleged that state security operatives attempted to assassinate him during a raid on his Kabulonga residence. He claims the operation resulted in the fatal shooting of his close associate, Hon. Mutotwe Kafwaya, who was unarmed. Authorities have rejected the allegations, with Police Inspector General Graphael Musamba insisting security forces were pursuing a suspected militia group. The incident has drawn international concern, with the EU, SADC, AU, Commonwealth and UN calling for transparency, accountability and restraint. Mpho Sithole spoke to Zambian Member of Parliament, Hon. Emmanuel Banda to unpack these developments.

The United Nations (UN) Human Rights Office is calling on Zambian authorities to uphold the rights of opposition members reportedly arrested and detained before and after the country's general election.  The call comes as President Hakainde Hichilema begins another term in office, after being declared the winner of the 13 August election. The UN says any post-election grievances must be addressed peacefully and in line with international human rights law.  Channel Africa's Lebogang Mabange reports.

A tragic boating accident has claimed dozens of young lives in northwestern Nigeria. An overloaded vessel carrying passengers to rice farms capsized in Sokoto State, with rescue teams and local divers still searching for victims. Authorities say at least 40 bodies, most of them children, have been recovered, highlighting ongoing concerns about water transport safety in parts of Nigeria where such disasters occur frequently. Mpho Sithole spoke to our correspondent in Nigeria, Jonathan James Lyamgohn.

Today, as the world marks World Humanitarian Day, attention is being drawn to the growing dangers faced by those delivering life-saving assistance in some of the world's most volatile conflict zones. New analysis from Save the Children reveals that nearly 96% of attacks on humanitarian workers over the past five years have targeted local aid workers, the men and women from affected communities who are often on the frontlines of responding to crises. The findings come after 2025 was recorded as the deadliest year for humanitarian workers, with places such as the occupied Palestinian territories, Sudan, South Sudan and Lebanon among the most dangerous environments in which to operate. Save the Children warns that increasing violations of international humanitarian law are not only endangering aid workers, but also threatening the millions of children and families who rely on humanitarian assistance for survival. To help us unpack the implications of these findings, particularly for children caught in conflict and humanitarian crises, Unathi Batyashe spoke to German More, Director of New Business Development and Communications at Save the Children

The Turfloop Graduate School of leadership a faculty of the University of Limpopo in South Africa is hosting the second Global Leadership and Sustainability Development Symposium. Held under the theme Innovation for Climate Change Governance and Sustainable Development has brought together stakeholders from academia, business, government and civil society to interrogate how technological advancement, governance framework and societal transformation can collectively contribute to a sustainable and inclusive future. For more on this we have Professor Thanyani Madzivhandila from the Turfloop Graduate school of leadership...

African leaders and senior officials meeting in Kigali are calling for a fundamental transformation in the way the continent approaches water and sanitation shifting from short-term infrastructure projects to sustainable systems and reliable services. From Kigali Sylivanus Karemera reports....

The remains of two Namibian liberation heroes who died while imprisoned on Robben Island, a frequently repurposed piece of South Africa that is most famous for the prison that once held Nelson Mandela, are finally going home. They are among 84 ancestral remains of Namibian origin being repatriated from South Africa. A re-humanisation and repatriation ceremony was held in Cape Town today, ahead of their return to Namibia on Friday, 21st August. Channel Africa's Lebogang Mabange reports....

South Africa and Namibia are marking a major milestone in the pursuit of restorative justice and historical redress. The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, together with Iziko Museums of South Africa, Robben Island Museum, the South African Heritage Resources Agency and their Namibian counterparts, are overseeing the repatriation of the remains of Namibian freedom fighters, ancestral human remains, grave goods, and body casts that were removed during the colonial and apartheid eras. The ceremony represents more than the return of human remains and cultural artefacts. It is a step towards restoring dignity to individuals and communities whose humanity was violated through colonial exploitation and apartheid oppression. It also reflects ongoing efforts to confront painful chapters of history and strengthen relations between South Africa and Namibia. Mpho Sithole spoke to Phumzile Zonke, Director: Advancement, Acting Director: Core Functions at the Iziko Museums of South Africa.....

The National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications, together with the South African Police Service, the National Consumer Commission and other stakeholders, has launched a series of high-impact enforcement operations in Johannesburg aimed at rooting out substandard, counterfeit and illicit goods. The surprise raids are targeting businesses suspected of trading in products that fail to meet South Africa's safety and quality standards, with authorities determined to protect consumers and hold non-compliant traders accountable. Mpho Sithole spoke to Duncan Mutengwe, the General Manager of the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications...

Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has strengthened his standing among international investors through a series of market-friendly economic reforms, a landmark restructuring of Zambia's debt following the country's 2020 sovereign default, and renewed efforts to revive the vital copper mining sector. His re-election for a second five-year term with around 60% of the vote has been welcomed by markets as a sign of policy continuity and economic stability. However, despite positive macroeconomic indicators, many Zambians continue to grapple with the high cost of living, unemployment and questions about whether economic growth is translating into tangible benefits for ordinary citizens. Mpho Sithole speak to Yusuf Dodia, a Zambian economist to unpack what President Hichilema's continued leadership means for Zambia's economy, investors and the wider region is...

The 46th Ordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government is underway in Durban, South Africa, at a time when Southern Africa faces significant economic, security and geopolitical challenges. The Summit comes against a backdrop of persistent instability in parts of the region, youth unemployment, energy insecurity and global economic uncertainty. To unpack the significance of this year's gathering, Mpho Sithole spoke to independent security analyst Azaniah Mnisi.

As Zambia awaits the final outcome of a closely contested presidential election, the political climate has become increasingly tense following claims that security forces disrupted an alleged insurrection plot involving opposition-linked figures. The allegations, arrests of senior politicians, concerns over electoral integrity, and counterclaims of political persecution have raised serious questions about democratic governance, the rule of law, and electoral transparency in Zambia. Mpho Sithole spoke to Maurice Nyambe, Executive Director of Transparency International Zambia to help unpack the implications of these developments and what they mean for the country's democracy.

Save the Children South Africa (SCSA) has welcomed the recent Gauteng High Court developments concerning the effective implementation and maintenance of South Africa's National Child Protection Register. The organisations says it views the court's findings as a critical turning point for national safeguarding practice and a call to action for every institution that serves children.   SECTION27 and The Teddy Bear Foundation won the landmark ruling forcing the Department of Social Development to properly maintain the National Child Protection Register to keep children safe from unsuitable educators. Sisi Segalo has more on the story...

Former South  African parliamenterian and host of the Thabo Mbeki  Foundation  Podcast, Dr Mbuyiseni Ndlozi has called on the Southern African Development Community, SADC to unite in order to achieve economic emancipation in the  region.   Ndlozi was speaking at the Samora Machel  symposium taking place at Rhodes University, in Makhanda in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The two-day symposium, is taking place under the Theme "Aluta Continua: Samora Machel, Liberation Movements and the Unfinished Decolonial Project". Thuto Ngobeni has the report...

The Lake Kariba ferry tragedy has raised serious questions about passenger safety, possible negligence and accountability, with Bulawayo Mayor and Senator David Coltart calling for an independent commission of inquiry to establish exactly what caused the disaster. He says the investigation must determine whether the ferry was properly maintained, whether the passenger limit was exceeded, and whether any individuals or authorities were negligent. Mpho Sithole spoke to him about the tragedy, the need for accountability and what must change to prevent a similar disaster.

Zimbabwe is continuing to mourn the victims of the Lake Kariba ferry tragedy, with a memorial service held at Nyamhunga Stadium in Kariba town as families and the wider community grapple with the loss of at least 44 lives. The government-operated ferry capsized on Tuesday after reportedly encountering strong waves in bad weather. Official records indicate that at least 119 passengers and crew were documented on board, despite the vessel having a capacity of 90 people. 77 survivors have been rescued, while search and recovery operations continue for those still missing. The country has declared a State of Disaster, bringing additional resources into the rescue operation and providing support to affected families. Producer, Tracey Boomgaard caught up with Zimbabwe's Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe.

The Zambia Police Service says it has arrested six individuals who were allegedly found in possession of offensive weapons. The arrests come as authorities maintained heightened security around the electoral process and urged citizens to remain peaceful, law-abiding and vigilant. Mpho Sithole spoke to Godfrey Chilabi, Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police and the Public Relations Officer for the Zambia Police Service on the arrests and the overall security situation.

Incumbent Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has praised the peaceful conduct of the 2026 general elections. Approximately 8 million Zambians participated in the presidential, parliamentary, and local government elections. Nhlanhla Mahlangu reports.

A cold and severe weather system is sweeping across South Africa, bringing disruptive snowfall to parts of the Eastern Cape, heavy rain, freezing temperatures and strong winds in several regions. Authorities have issued high-level warnings, with some areas already experiencing dangerous travel conditions and road closures due to snow and ice. The South African Weather Service is urging the public to remain cautious and to stay updated as conditions evolve. Unathi Batyashe spoke to South African Weather Service Forecaster, Lehlohonolo Thobela

As Zambians head to the polls at the end of the week, there are mixed emotions among citizens, with some expressing hope, while others voice deep frustration over the cost of living. The Fight Inequality Alliance says while government points to stability and economic growth, many ordinary families are grappling with soaring prices, persistent blackouts, and daily hardship. The organisation argues that the lived reality of citizens tells a very different story from the official narrative. Unathi Batyashe spoke to Zambia's Fight Inequality Alliance National Coordinator, Mputa Ngalande

Tanzania's opposition leader and CHADEMA chairperson, Tundu Lissu, has returned to the High Court in Dar es Salaam as his high-profile treason trial resumes after a five-month delay. The case had been on hold since February due to a prosecution appeal, but proceedings have now moved into the evidentiary stage following a ruling by the Court of Appeal. Lissu, who has spent more than 450 days in detention, faces treason charges linked to remarks about the country's general elections, a case that continues to draw regional and international attention. Unathi Batyashe spoke to CHADEMA spokesperson, Brenda Rupiah

South Africa (SA) says it is strengthening cultural ties with other countries as part of efforts to boost international co-operation and grow its creative economy. Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Peace Mabe says the government is expanding cultural agreements to deliver practical benefits. She was speaking in the capital, Pretoria, at an event honouring internationally acclaimed SA artist and sculptor Professor Pitika Ntuli.  Channel Africa's Michael Mbewe has more.

African leaders, policymakers, financiers and investors are gathering in Dar es Salaam for the Infra for Africa Forum 2026, a high-level summit focused on unlocking innovative ways to fund the continent's massive infrastructure needs. Held under the theme "A Decade of Economic Impact: From Vision to Delivery," the forum marks ten years of Africa50 and brings together key players to tackle issues ranging from energy access and digital infrastructure to mobilising African capital. As discussions intensify around reducing reliance on external funding and strengthening Africa-led solutions, the role of the media in shaping accountability and public understanding also comes into focus. Mpho Sithole spoke to William Oloo Janak, Secretary General of the Congress of African Journalists..

As South Africa marks Women's Month, the spotlight turns to women who are breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries. One such person is 34-year-old, Refiloe Salome Masete, founder of Refiloe Maatla Trading & Projects, a 100% Black female-owned mining support company that has been making its mark since 2017. Operating in areas like drilling and blasting, ventilation systems, and mining infrastructure, the company is not only contributing to safer and more efficient mining operations, but also driving transformation in a sector long dominated by men. This Women's Month, we explore the journey, challenges, and impact of women in mining, and what more still needs to be done. Mpho Sithole spoke to Refiloe Salome Masete...

Aid agencies are warning of worsening conditions for Congolese refugees in Burundi, as the World Food Programme plans to cut assistance from 75% to just 50% due to funding shortages. The move comes at a critical time, with tens of thousands of refugees having fled renewed violence in eastern DRC and now living in already strained conditions. Refugees say the reduced support will not be enough to meet even their most basic needs, raising fears of a deepening humanitarian crisis. UNHCR says the situation is particularly concerning given that emergency settings typically require full assistance, not cuts. Brigitte Mukanga-Eno, the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) representative in Burundi spoke to Mpho Sithole...

Zambia's ministry of health together with multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology company Bayer AG have officially handed over the Munzele Health Centre to the community of Munga Ward, Kabwe, Central Province in Zambia. The Phase 1 of the health centre an outpatient department (OPD), was built with a over 143 thousand US Dollars donated by Bayer.   The Health Centre cuts an over twenty kilometre journey for the community to access the nearest health facility. Sisi Segalo has more on the story

As global investment flows increasingly look toward emerging markets, partnerships between Africa and India are gaining renewed momentum. The recent Africa–India Summit held in Cape Town brought together investors, policymakers and business leaders to explore new opportunities across sectors such as infrastructure, technology and renewable energy. At the same time, Amicorp Group, a global corporate services provider with a presence in over 40 countries, has secured its South African FCSA licence, positioning itself to expand its footprint across the continent. To unpack the key takeaways from the Summit and what they mean for businesses looking to invest across borders, Mpho Sithole spoke to Craig Lyall, Head of Fund Structuring and Solutions at Amicorp Group..

South Sudan's First Vice President, Dr Riek Machar prepares to take the stand in a highly contested tribunal in Juba. Machar's SPLM/A-IO party says the leader will present his defence tomorrow following charges linked to the Nasir incident, but the movement has strongly rejected the legitimacy of the court, describing it as politically motivated and a threat to the country's fragile peace process. At the centre of the dispute are claims that the proceedings are being used to target opposition figures, undermine the Revitalised Peace Agreement, and derail efforts toward national unity. To unpack these developments, Mpho Sithole spoke to Puok Both Baluang the Press Secretary, at the Office of the First Vice President of the Republic South Sudan...

Cameroon's security landscape is drawing renewed attention following a series of high-level military appointments announced by President Paul Biya.  On Monday, the long-serving leader signed several decrees reshaping the leadership of the country's Defence Forces, with the most notable change being the appointment of Brigadier General Beko'o Abondo Raymond Jean Charles as the new Commander of the Presidential Guard. These developments come at a time when questions continue to circulate about President Biya's visibility and presence in the country, adding further intrigue to what these changes could signal politically and within the military establishment. To help us unpack this, Mpho Sithole spoke to a Cameroonian political scientist, Cletus Suhfree…

Zambia has started receiving Ballot Papers for the August General Election from the United Arab Emirates' city of Dubai, where the Southern African nation has been printing from. Meanwhile preparations for the election on the ground is going but with a number of concerns ranging from withdrawal of validly nominated candidates, claims of unfair electoral practice to continued scenes of violence countrywide. Our Zambia Correspondent Arthur Davies Sikopo now gives us a build-up for the polls.

At the recently ended International Women's Forum for Peace and Democracy in Luanda, Angola, Chairperson of the Executive Committee of the African Women's Impact Fund, Lindeka Dzedze stressed that women's economic empowerment is key to peace, stability, and resilience in Africa, calling for concrete action and measurable results to drive real impact. Tracey Boomgaard caught up with Dzedze on the eve of Pan-African Women's Day and began by asking her about empowering women and the issue of gender equality...

South Africa continues to grapple with a deepening child hunger crisis, with nearly a quarter of children living in severe food poverty and many at risk of life-threatening malnutrition. Efforts to provide nutritious meals to vulnerable children and support Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres, remain a critical intervention in addressing these challenges, particularly in underserved communities where resources are limited. To unpack the scale of the crisis, the impact on children, and what more needs to be done to tackle food insecurity in a sustainable way, Mpho Sithole spoke to Brian Nell, CEO of Rise Against Hunger Africa

The United Nations is warning that the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is spreading at an unprecedented pace, with the number of infections doubling every 20 days. The UN says the response is struggling to keep up, as hundreds continue to die amid worsening humanitarian conditions. The World Food Programme (WFP) has also stressed that food assistance is now a critical part of containing the outbreak. Channel Africa's Lebogang Mabange reports

A disturbing investigation by the Southern Africa Accountability Journalism Project, has revealed that some chicken farmers in Zimbabwe are allegedly using antiretroviral drugs in poultry feed to boost growth and prevent disease. The practice raises serious concerns around public health, food safety and the integrity of HIV treatment programmes. To unpack the findings and their broader implications, Mpho Sithole spoke to an investigative journalist with the Southern Africa Accountability Journalism Project, in collaboration with the Henry Nxumalo Foundation, Dalphine Tagwireyi

The Pan African Parliament (PAP) has urged the South African government to strengthen measures to prevent and eliminate xenophobic violence against African nationals residing in the country. Members discussed a motion on the escalating afrophobic attacks at the First Ordinary Session of the Seventh Legislature in Midrand, in the country's Gauteng Province. Nhlanhla Mahlangu reports

Ghana's Constitution limits a president to two terms. But a new legal challenge has raised questions about whether those two terms must be back-to-back or if they are the only two terms a person can ever serve. The issue has raised broader questions about constitutional certainty, judicial interpretation, and the future of Ghana's democratic stability. To help us unpack these issues, Mpho Sithole spoke to Africa Analyst and Africa Briefing Publisher, Jonathan Offei-Ansah.

As Africa marks Pan-African Women's Day, attention turns to the critical role women continue to play in shaping the continent's future, from leadership and governance to driving innovation and growth in business. While progress has been made in advancing gender equality, challenges around access, representation, and economic empowerment remain. To unpack these issues, Mpho Sithole spoke to Nosipho Dinwa, founder of MBA Women in Africa, to reflect on the state of women's leadership on the continent and what more needs to be done to unlock their full potential.

The United Nations Human Rights Office has expressed alarm over what it describes as a crackdown on dissent in Uganda, warning that an erosion of the rule of law, shrinking civic space and alleged human rights violations are creating a climate of fear. The UN is urging the Ugandan government to uphold its constitutional and international human rights obligations. More from our reporter Lebogang Mabange.