Hospitals damaged in Kenya as protests turn deadly

At least two hospitals in Kenya sustained damage during protests marking the 35th anniversary of pro-democracy rallies. According to witnesses and hospital officials, the demonstrations left at least 11 people dead. Tensions have been running high in the East African nation since the death of blog…

SA Deputy Minister calls for urgent action on teenage pregnancy

The Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities is hosting a stakeholder engagement today to address the growing crisis of teenage pregnancy in South Africa. The department says teenage pregnancy has reached alarming proportions, posing a serious threat to the…

US increases pressure on trading partners over new tariffs

The United States government has increased pressure on its trading partners this week, sending notices to the heads of several countries, including South Africa and Tunisia, informing them of revised tariff rates. The tariffs, which were initially scheduled to come into effect today, have now been…

South Sudan marks 14 years of independence

South Sudan marks 14 years of independence today. On this day in 2011, the country became the youngest nation on the African continent after breaking away from Sudan. Despite its abundant natural resources, many argue that South Sudan’s wealth continues to benefit only a small elite. Fourteen year…

West Africa news wrap with Political Analyst Dr David Matsanga

We now turn to some of the top stories making headlines across the West Africa region. To help us unpack these developments, we’re joined by political analyst and conflict resolution expert, Dr David Matsanga.

Nigeria sees more killings by armed groups in first half of 2025 than entire 2024

More people have been killed by armed groups in Nigeria in the first six months of this year than in the whole of 2024. That’s according to the National Human Rights Commission, which reports over 2 200 deaths resulting from insurgent attacks, banditry, and communal violence. With the military str…

Allegations of racial discrimination and unfair payments by medical schemes back in spotlight

Allegations of racial discrimination and unfair payment practices by medical schemes have returned to the spotlight. On Monday morning, South Africa’s Health Minister, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, officially received the final report from the Section 59 Investigation Panel. The media briefing included re…

SA-born businessman Elon Musk hints at forming 'America Party'

The feud between US President Donald Trump and South African-born businessman Elon Musk has reignited, with the President suggesting Musk should "head back home." This follows Musk’s threat to form a new political party, the America Party, in a move that could challenge Republican lawmakers seekin…

Calls grow in SA for commission to probe criminality within Police Service

Parliament’s Chairperson of the Police Committee, Ian Cameron, has called for the establishment of a special commission to investigate criminal activities among members of the South African Police Service (SAPS). This follows damning allegations made by KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner, Lieutenan…

Update: Kenya protests

On Monday, the Saba Saba protests across Kenya, particularly in Nairobi’s Kangemi suburb, turned violent. Police reportedly fired live ammunition to disperse demonstrators marking the 35th anniversary of the country’s historic pro-democracy rallies. According to reports, at least 10 people were ki…