The transition from Humala to Kuczynski in 2016 initially followed a standard electoral process, yet it also marked the beginning of a more fragmented political era. Kuczynski governed with a hostile Congress, which repeatedly sought his removal. Mounting pressure linked to corruption allegations ultimately led to his resignation in March 2018, setting a precedent for executive vulnerability under congressional scrutiny.

His successor, Vizcarra, inherited both the presidency and the institutional conflict. His decision to dissolve Congress in 2019, though constitutional, intensified political polarisation. In November 2020, Congress removed him on grounds of “moral incapacity”, a constitutional provision that has since become central to Peru’s instability. This mechanism, broadly defined and politically contested, has enabled repeated presidential removals without the need for criminal conviction.

The short-lived presidency of Merino, lasting only five days, highlighted the limits of congressional legitimacy when faced with public opposition. Mass protests forced his resignation, leading Congress to appoint Sagasti as a transitional president. Sagasti’s administration restored a degree of stability, overseeing elections and completing a full interim mandate, which remains an exception in an otherwise turbulent decade.

The election of Castillo in 2021 once again raised expectations of political renewal. However, his presidency was characterised by persistent confrontation with Congress, frequent cabinet changes, and ongoing investigations. The crisis culminated in December 2022, when Castillo attempted to dissolve Congress and was immediately removed from office. His vice-president, Boluarte, assumed power, but her tenure was also marked by protests, governance challenges, and eventual removal by Congress in 2025.

The appointment of Jerí as interim president in 2025 continued the pattern of short-lived administrations. His removal in early 2026, following allegations of misconduct, reinforced the perception of systemic instability rather than isolated crises. Across these transitions, a consistent pattern emerges: presidents rarely complete their mandates, and leadership changes are driven more by institutional confrontation than by electoral cycles.

Several structural factors explain this phenomenon. Peru’s fragmented party system weakens executive support in Congress, while the constitutional provision of “moral incapacity” provides a flexible tool for removal. Additionally, corruption investigations have affected multiple administrations, further eroding public trust. These conditions create a political environment in which governance is often secondary to survival.

As Peru approaches new general elections , the primary expectation is not necessarily political transformation but institutional stabilisation. The key challenge for future leadership will be to establish a functional relationship between the executive and legislative branches. Without reforms that clarify constitutional ambiguities and strengthen party systems, the cycle observed over the past decade is likely to persist, regardless of electoral outcomes.

Executive Secretary Ralph Recto said all meetings — from working groups to ministerial sessions — would be conducted virtually, a shift affecting hundreds of engagements typically held in person throughout the year.

This move comes as Southeast Asia grapples with the economic fallout of the United States-Israel war on Iran, which has disrupted global energy markets and pushed oil prices higher. 

In a report, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) warned that developing economies in the region could lose more than two percentage points of growth if the conflict drags on, with a prolonged war also fuelling inflation.

The lender said the region’s exposure stems largely from its dependence on imported energy and global trade flows rather than direct involvement in the conflict. In a worst-case scenario of a year-long war, oil prices could surge past $155 per barrel, compounding inflationary pressures and straining public finances across the region.

Recto said the scaled-down format would allow Manila to “save on expenses and focus on the most important,” while still aiming for “substantial discussions and productive results” despite the crisis.

The Philippines is this year’s ASEAN chair, a role that typically involves hosting a full calendar of in-person meetings across multiple levels of government . Instead, only the two leaders’ summits — scheduled for May in Cebu and November in Manila — will proceed physically, though even these are expected to be pared down.

Marcos has already said the May summit will adopt a “bare-bones” format focused on urgent regional concerns, including energy security, food supply disruptions and the welfare of migrant workers.

Officials said the decision to shift meetings online is partly aimed at redirecting funds to cushion the domestic impact of rising oil prices, particularly on vulnerable sectors.

The Department of Foreign Affairs has been tasked with briefing ASEAN counterparts on the changes and adjusting expected outcomes accordingly, while host agencies are being instructed to coordinate the transition to virtual formats.

The shift also reflects broader pressures across ASEAN economies, many of which rely heavily on energy imports from the Gulf and have been hit by supply disruptions and price volatility since the conflict began. Regional officials have warned of knock-on effects on inflation, trade and employment .

Still, Manila maintained that the bloc’s core objectives would remain intact.

“A stripped-down ASEAN [programme] will still be able to achieve its goal of strengthening regional unity,” Recto said, adding that “pomp and pageantry” would give way to “problem-solving” as the region confronts mounting global challenges.

More than a century later, that line has become a frontline marked by soldiers, conflict and deep-seated tension. Historians and political analysts say these conflicts didn’t begin yesterday; they began the moment territorial borders were imposed without reference to local realities. Many of today’s borders were drawn by imperial powers that cared more about rivalry and resource control than about rivers, ethnic groups, or traditional land use.

Experts say many modern border tensions occur where artificial lines cut across ethnic and cultural territories or where they overlay natural resources and strategic interests. When boundaries were imposed by colonial powers with rulers instead of local voices, they often ignored rivers, trade routes, shared histories, and even livelihoods, planting the seeds for long-term conflict .

Today, defending a border is no longer just about territorial control, it’s about survival, leverage, identity and sovereignty. Courts and treaties can offer legal frameworks for settling disputes, but in many cases, the words on a page have been overshadowed by force on the ground.

In 2026, these lines drawn centuries ago still shape who eats, who profits and who holds power, even as local communities, national governments and international actors grapple with the unresolved legacy of maps made far from the realities they were meant to define.

Under the amendments, penalties outlined in Articles 70 and 71 of the law will be significantly stiffened, while a newly added Article 71 introduces a formal reconciliation mechanism for past offences, Youm7 reports.

According to the committee, the move specifically targets two problems: the increasing frequency of electricity theft, often involving the manipulation of meters or tapping into the grid, and violations by employees who knowingly supply power unlawfully or fail to report breaches.

Article 70, which applies to electricity-sector staff, has been rewritten to impose a minimum one-year prison sentence and fines ranging from 100,000 to 1 million Egyptian pounds on workers who illegally supply electricity, intentionally deny licensed services or conceal violations. Previously, the maximum penalty was six months in prison and a 50,000-pound fine. Repeat offenders will now face doubled penalties.

Article 71, concerning electricity theft by individuals or entities, has also been sharply toughened. Those found guilty of illegally obtaining electricity will face at least one year in prison or fines between 100,000 and 1 million pounds. If the theft results in a power outage, imprisonment becomes mandatory. Offenders who tamper with electrical equipment to steal power will face a minimum two-year sentence and fines of up to 2 million.

In all cases, convicted individuals must pay double the value of stolen electricity as well as the full cost of repairing damage.

“Malagasy people need to unite, that’s what’s causing this movement,” one protester said. “We are tired, fed up and completely lost, so let’s fight for the good of the youth and the next generation,” he added.

But as the demonstrations grew, anger turned destructive, and businesses were vandalised. Offices were damaged, and homes looted as protests spiralled out of control.

“It is sad because the demand for electricity and water has now ended, and ordinary people’s property has been destroyed and badly damaged,” said protester Edhia Cathy.

“The destruction of homes started with the demand for electricity and water and ended with theft and destruction of other people’s property. How can we overcome this situation?” added Kevin Julio, another demonstrator.

Protesters accused police of contributing to the situation when they deployed tear gas to disperse crowds, triggering panic and opening the door to looting.

“What we asked for was a simple and peaceful demand, but the police responded with a repressive force,” said Hasina Ramanantsoa. 

“They fired tear gas bombs and there was chaos. Businesses were looted. It should have been a peaceful movement, but now it has become a looting movement, causing chaos among the Malagasy people,” he told Viory.

A Weakened MAS

Once a dominant force, MAS now faces the consequences of its internal split, with loyalties divided between President Luis Arce and former leader Evo Morales. Morales, though barred from running, still managed to mobilise nearly 17% of voters toward casting null ballots, underscoring his continued influence but also the limits of his electoral base. The result was a weakened MAS and unexpected gains for alternative candidates, signalling a new phase in Bolivia’s volatile political cycle.

While the immediate outcome has reshuffled party alignments, Breda warns that Bolivia’s deeper challenges remain unresolved. The persistent polarisation between Arce’s government and Morales’ loyalists risks prolonging cycles of protest and road blockades, instruments that have long paralysed the economy and undermined trust in institutions. At the same time, the lack of a unifying political force raises concerns about governance, as fragmented opposition groups may struggle to present coherent alternatives. According to Breda, this fragile equilibrium could turn Bolivia’s upcoming months into a test of resilience for its democracy.

The economic protest factor

Beyond political rivalries, Breda further pointed out that Bolivia’s elections were heavily influenced by a wave of protests over economic crisis and shortages. 

Breda told Global South World that since October 2023, ACLED recorded more than 500 protests linked to the lack of dollars, fuel, and rising food prices, a level of unrest rarely seen in the country’s recent history. “When there were protests about lack, they were almost non-existent, except briefly during the pandemic”, Breda explained. “This gives us a sense of how severe the current economic situation has become”, he added.

But the turmoil was compounded by pro-Evo Morales blockades, which often paralysed transport and trade for weeks. Rather than bolstering Morales’ cause, Breda argues these actions deepened the economic crisis and fueled frustration across the country. “The protests of his supporters actually aggravated shortages and made life harder for ordinary Bolivians. This increased rejection of MAS as a whole”, Breda said.

“Salt contains magnesium, and it has a positive charge component to it,” he explained. “Like a battery, you need the plus and the minus. For the positive side, you can use copper or aluminium, and for the negative side, carbon or other materials,” he told Global South World .

When both electrodes are placed in a cup of salt water, a reaction occurs that generates electricity. The process is similar to a conventional battery, where chemicals inside react with components to produce energy.

Dundas says the challenge lies in amplifying and converting the raw current into usable voltage through circuits. His team has been testing different elements to find the most effective combination.

Unlike acid-based batteries, he stresses that salt water is safe. “It does not affect the skin because we swim in the sea every day. Salt water doesn’t burn the skin like acid does, and it’s safe for the environment ,” he said.

Dundas believes salt water could one day provide a quick, reliable and eco-friendly power source for homes, hospitals, and schools.

This comes as much of Egypt, including the capital Cairo, struggles through temperatures reaching 40°C or more in recent days.

The Electricity Ministry said this surge in demand is different from previous years.

While last year’s highest load came on a single day during a heatwave, this year’s pressure on the grid has stretched across several days, with no immediate sign of cooling.

To deal with the growing demand, authorities have increased emergency preparedness across the national electricity system.

Power stations, transmission lines , and distribution networks are all being closely monitored.

The ministry has also deployed teams on the ground and ordered continuous checks to ensure the system holds up.

Electricity Minister Mahmoud Esmat said the country is doing everything it can to prevent blackouts and ensure stable power supply.

“There must be immediate and accurate communication with citizens, verification of complaint resolution, and a continued push for better services,” he was quoted by local media as saying.

In recent years, Egypt has struggled with repeated power cuts during hot summer months, when air conditioning use rises sharply.

In 2023, the country introduced power-saving measures to reduce strain on its gas-based energy system.

But this year, the government has promised there will be no planned power cuts, despite the sharp rise in usage.

The Authority for Public Services Regulation said no cuts are allowed between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. local time, or before weekends and official holidays.

Gulf News reports that the ban also covers the full period of the General Education Diploma exams and the holy month of Ramadan.

Officials say the decision is meant to ensure families and students are not disrupted during critical times. The rule applies to both electricity and water providers across the country.

To ease pressure during the hot season, Oman has also reduced electricity bills for residents from May to August, when demand usually peaks.

People who qualify for extra help can apply for the National Subsidy System, which offers support based on income and place of residence.

The move comes as the country’s energy use continues to grow.

In 2024, electricity production rose by more than 7%, driven by higher output in several regions. The electricity and water sectors contributed 2.5% to Oman’s economy last year.

Oman is also pushing ahead with new investments in power and water, including cleaner energy options.

The country’s electricity demand is expected to keep rising in the next few years.

Uganda is transitioning to safer and cleaner cooking solutions in schools by introducing Shell Gas, following the Ministry of Energy’s directive to phase out traditional fuels like firewood and charcoal. This initiative aims to reduce carbon emissions and improve health outcomes for students and staff, Pulse Uganda reports. The Shell Gas package includes gas tanks, cookers, safety equipment, and free training for staff on safe usage. King’s College Budo is the first school to integrate Shell Gas, with its headmaster highlighting the importance of this transition for health, safety, and environmental sustainability.

Ugandan shilling

The Ugandan shilling remained stable on March 31, 2025, due to low dollar demand across all sectors. As of 0955 GMT, commercial banks quoted the shilling at 3,655/3,665, unchanged from the previous close, according to CNBC Africa .

Power distribution

Umeme Ltd has officially handed over power distribution to the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) after its 30-year concession ended. CEO Selestino Babungi warned that Uganda could face a power deficit in three years if current demand, outpacing supply, is not addressed. Without intervention, projections indicate shortages by 2028. Pulse Uganda reports that while Uganda's electricity consumption is anticipated to grow by 14% annually, the government is exploring new generation projects, including a feasibility study for the 400 MW Kiba hydropower plant. During Umeme's tenure, significant infrastructure improvements were made, increasing customer connections and reducing energy losses, but the network is currently under strain from rising demand.

Oil refinery investment

Uganda has signed an agreement with UAE-based Alpha MBM Investments for a 60 percent stake in a $4 billion crude oil refinery in Kabaale, Hoima District, with Uganda's state-run Uganda National Oil Company retaining the remaining 40 percent. The Arabian Gulf Business Insight reports that this 60,000-barrel-per-day facility is crucial for Uganda's emerging hydrocarbons sector. The agreement follows earlier negotiations that commenced on January 16. Additionally, Uganda and UAE investors finalised five other agreements in various sectors. 

Hike in Mpox cases

Uganda has reported a total of 4,810 confirmed Mpox cases and 37 deaths since the outbreak began eight months ago, according to the Ministry of Health. In the past 24 hours, there were 13 new infections and six deaths. The majority of cases are among young adults aged 25-29 in urban areas, Azernews reports. The World Health Organisation has stated that Uganda has the highest number of community-transmitted Mpox cases globally, prompting health authorities to enhance surveillance and awareness efforts. Mpox, also known as monkeypox, is spread through close contact and exhibits symptoms such as fever, swollen lymph nodes, and skin rash. 

The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, met with Egypt’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Mohammed Fouad, in Abuja to discuss how both countries can work together in the energy sector.

Adelabu praised Egypt’s progress in power development and said Nigeria wants to learn from its success.

He explained that Nigeria has been working to fix its power sector and is in talks with Siemens to help improve electricity supply.

He also stressed the need to provide power to rural areas, saying many villages cannot be connected to the national grid because it is too expensive. Instead, the government is focusing on renewable energy, such as solar and wind power, to bring electricity to remote communities.

“Egypt has made remarkable strides in energy transformation, and we are eager to collaborate and learn from your expertise. Our goal is to ensure reliable, stable, and affordable energy access for all Nigerians,” Adelabu said .

He added that Nigeria has secured large investments for this, including $750 million from the World Bank and $190 million from Japan’s International Cooperation Agency. These funds will help set up renewable energy projects to give more Nigerians access to electricity.

Egypt’s Ambassador, Mohammed Fouad, said his country is ready to work with Nigeria, especially in solving electricity metering problems and making energy more accessible. He said both nations share similar goals and can benefit from working together.

Cuba’s electricity issues have mostly been resolved, with much of Havana reconnected by Sunday night, Reuters reports. A blackout that began Friday night—caused by a substation short—left over 10 million people without power, highlighting the strain on Cuba’s ageing, oil-dependent grid. It was the country’s fourth major grid collapse since October 2024. According to Travel Pulse Canada , Canada’s travel advisory warns visitors of ongoing power shortages, noting that while resorts have generators, outages may still affect service.

Project on climate change adaptation makes strides in Cuba

The “Mi Costa” project, led by Cuba’s Ministry of Science, Technology and the Environment with support from national and international partners, aims to boost climate resilience along 1,300 km of Cuba’s southern coast through ecosystem-based adaptation. ACN reports that over an eight-year implementation period and 22-year operation, it covers 24 municipalities across seven provinces, offering training and workshops for officials and communities. The project focuses on climate adaptation, water and soil management, coastal ecosystems, and blue carbon initiatives in mangroves, seagrasses, peatlands, and more.

Trump administration orders deep cuts to Office of Cuba Broadcasting

President Trump ordered the shutdown of the Office of Cuba Broadcasting, which runs Radio and Television Martí, Spanish-language stations created under Reagan to promote democracy in Cuba. As reported by WPTV , the executive order also cuts back the U.S. Agency for Global Media and six other small agencies. Staff were placed on administrative leave, and the future of the Martí stations remains uncertain.

Cuban foreign minister visits Nigeria to strengthen bilateral ties

Cuba’s Foreign Minister, Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, is visiting Nigeria to strengthen bilateral ties in healthcare, education, agriculture, science and technology, and cultural exchange, according to a statement by the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The visit highlights the long-standing relationship between the two nations, rooted in cooperation and shared history, including support for anti-apartheid and liberation movements. He is expected to meet with Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, to discuss further collaboration, Arise TV reports.

Trump wants 30,000 migrants held at U.S. Base in Cuba

Former U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly considering a controversial proposal to detain up to 30,000 migrants at the U.S. naval base in Guantánamo Bay, reigniting debate over the use of the remote military facility for immigration enforcement. According to reporting by CNN’s Patrick Oppmann , the plan would represent a dramatic expansion of the base's role in U.S. immigration policy. While Guantánamo Bay is most often associated with its detention facility for terror suspects, it has also been used in the past to house migrants — most notably during the 1990s Haitian and Cuban migration crises, when thousands were temporarily held at the base.

Jolinette Gaba, a 24-year-old mother, described the dire situation as she struggled to find water for her seven-month-old baby.

"We've been here since midnight to fetch water despite the insecurity in certain areas of our neighborhoods. When we come here, we can stay for hours and hours before we get water to prepare food for our children . If there's no water, we have to stay no matter what time it is. Sometimes we get some around 5 PM. The day before yesterday, I left home at 5 AM and got back around 5 PM without finding any,” she told the AFP.

She also shared the impact on childcare, explaining how she is forced to leave her baby at home to search for water. “If I can't find any water, the baby's clothes may be left for two or three days in a basin of dirty water, often full of germs. How are we supposed to live in these conditions ?,” she added.

The crisis is also crippling local businesses. Patrick Kourama, a vendor at the Boyrabe market, explained how the blackouts have led to food spoilage and financial losses.

Kourama said, “Most of our products are frozen, so it's thanks to electricity that we can preserve them to sell to our customers. Products like chicken wings, backs, and thighs need to be fresh. The worst thing is fish like tuna, which spoils very easily without electricity.”

In Buenos Aires, the heat index reached 44.4 degrees Celsius (112 degrees Fahrenheit) in the afternoon. Many people tried to escape the heat by going to shopping malls, parks, and other public spaces with air conditioning.

The high demand for electricity led to massive power outages across the Buenos Aires metropolitan area.

More than 600,000 homes and businesses lost power, leaving about 2 million people in the dark.

Government buildings, including the presidential palace and the Ministry of Economy, were also affected.

Public transport was disrupted, with some train and metro services stopping or running at reduced capacity. Traffic lights also stopped working, causing congestion on busy roads.

The heat wave is even worse in some northern provinces, where authorities have issued the highest-level warning. In places like Corrientes, Formosa, Chaco, Misiones, and Santiago del Estero, temperatures are so extreme that they could be dangerous for everyone, even healthy people, local reports confirm .

Former Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko of Zimbabwe has died at the age of 84 while undergoing treatment in India for an undisclosed illness. Zim Live reports that his death was confirmed by presidential spokesperson George Charamba. Mphoko served as vice president from 2014 to 2017 and held various diplomatic positions since 1987. He was a former ZPRA commander and played a role in Zimbabwe's liberation struggle. Colleagues remembered him as a selfless national hero and a compassionate leader committed to promoting peace and reconciliation in the country.

Power outage

Zimbabwe's Parliament experienced a power outage during the budget discussion, causing outrage among opposition members. According to the First Post , the Finance Minister was concluding his speech when the lights went out, highlighting ongoing issues with power shortages due to low water levels at the Kariba Dam. Citizens face limited electricity access, averaging only seven hours per day. The country is exploring alternative power sources alongside Zambia to alleviate these outages.

Trade deficit

Zimbabwe's trade deficit narrowed to US$137.7 million in October 2024, a 34.3% decrease from US$209.5 million in September. This improvement results from a 21.4% rise in exports, reaching US$698.1 million, while imports increased by 6.6% to US$835.8 million. Key exports included semi-manufactured gold (42.4%), tobacco (17.5%), and nickel mattes (12.2%), while mineral fuels (21%) were the largest import category, Bulawayo24 reports. This trend highlights Zimbabwe's efforts to enhance the visibility of local products in global markets, supported by initiatives from President Mnangagwa and ZimTrade's export promotion campaigns, which aim to diversify export portfolios and strengthen economic growth through improved external trade.

Fire outbreak

A mysterious fire destroyed 12 huts belonging to the Chimbudzi family in Mwenezi District's Chimbudzi Village, leaving them homeless and without crucial supplies during the rainy season. The fire began unexpectedly in the kitchen of Judith Chimbudzi's homestead, engulfing two huts before returning five days later to finish the last remaining structure. The Zimbabwe Mail reports that villagers feared the fire could continue and declined to offer shelter. The disaster affected multiple family members across five homesteads, resulting in the loss of clothing and school uniforms. Mike Chimbudzi described the panic and community bewilderment over the unexplained incidents, while Chief Mawarire reported that they are seeking assistance from local authorities. The family has only received minimal aid so far.

Seizure of illicit goods

A joint operation targeting smuggling and unethical business practices resulted in the impounding of numerous vehicles, including buses and trucks, along with the seizure of illicit goods like foodstuffs and second-hand clothes. Spearheaded by a Cabinet-established task force led by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, the crackdown aims to protect local industries and consumer welfare amidst a surge of smuggled goods affecting the economy. Multiple agencies, including the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) and law enforcement, are conducting inspections at roadblocks and retail outlets to ensure compliance with regulations, The Zimbabwe Mail has said. The initiative will intensify during the festive season when smuggling often peaks, particularly with returning expatriates bringing goods that evade customs. Officials emphasize that business malpractices, including currency manipulation and selling counterfeit goods, threaten local manufacturers and employment. The government warns that non-compliance may lead to fines and seizure of goods, stating the urgent need to restore order in the market and curb smuggling's detrimental impact on public health and local production.

He stressed that resolving energy inefficiencies is vital to sustaining economic reforms.

Mahama further highlighted the inefficiencies in the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), citing its 32% technical and commercial losses. "I don't know any electricity company that can survive with 32% losses. I mean, and two years ago, they made a loss of 10 billion. Last year, I think they made a debt loss of about 6 billion. It cannot continue, and it has to stop."

Mahama proposed ramping up domestic gas production to meet 100% of Ghana’s electricity generation needs. Currently, gas from the Jubilee Field and ENI operations supplies just over 60% of the country’s requirements. Increasing this to full capacity, he said, could save the nation $400 million annually.

He criticised the government’s mismanagement of the energy value chain, which has led to payment defaults and reduced gas volumes from ENI. "If this continues, Ghana risks another default to the World Bank," he warned.

“This government has missed the whole chain, the whole value chain in the energy sector. And so, again, from the gas that is being taken, they are paying for it. And so because of that, ENI has reduced the volumes that it's pumping. We set up the ENI project with a well-done guarantee. We believe that the guarantee has been drawn down for non-payment until it's left to just $50 million. If ENI draws down on the $50 million, it means we would incur another default to the World Bank. And so it's a very precarious situation that needs to be dealt with as quickly as possible,” he added.

Mahama emphasised the need for swift and expert-driven solutions to prevent the energy sector from collapsing. "The energy sector debt can crush this economy if not addressed urgently," he said.

On the geopolitical front, Tanzania and Iran signed seven Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) for cooperation across various sectors during the fifth Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) meeting on October 17, 2024. Key focus areas included investment, energy, oil and gas, technology, and security. Foreign Affairs Minister Mahmoud Thabit Kombo highlighted economic diplomacy as central to the discussions and mentioned Iranian investments in agriculture and fishing potentially worth $40 million to $70 million. According to The Chanzo Reporter , Tanzania owes Iran Sh1.48 trillion, making it the country’s largest creditor, possibly influencing Tanzania's decision to open an embassy in Tehran.

Cholera outbreak

Regionally, a cholera outbreak in Tanzania's Lindi region has resulted in one death and 25 hospitalisations since it was first reported on October 13 in Zinga Kibaoni village, Kilwa district. This marks the second outbreak in the region, with the first occurring on September 17, Social News XYZ reports. Regional health authorities are actively working to control the situation. Cholera, caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, poses a significant public health threat linked to inequity and inadequate social development.

Power grid with Zambia

In response to a power crisis exacerbated by drought, Tanzania is constructing a grid interconnector with Zambia, announced by Deputy Prime Minister Doto Biteko at the Singapore International Energy Week. The interconnector is a critical part of Tanzania's broader strategy to enhance regional electricity trade within the Eastern African Power Pool and is anticipated to be completed in 36 months, CNBC Africa reports. Concurrently, Tanzania is negotiating a $42 billion liquefied natural gas export project, which has faced delays due to proposed amendments to the Host Government Agreement, with key partners in the LNG project including Equinor, Shell, and Exxon Mobil.

World Bicycle Relief

Addressing mobility poverty, World Bicycle Relief has expanded its operations into Tanzania, aiming to impact 45,000 rural individuals over the next three years by providing reliable bicycle-based transportation solutions. This initiative will enhance access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, particularly for healthcare workers, students (focusing on girls), and small-scale farmers. World Bicycle Relief will distribute 2,000 bicycles to Community Health Workers in partnership with the Ministry of Health, thereby improving healthcare delivery in critically underserved areas, according to Bikebiz .

Gender Disparity

The significant gender disparity in land ownership laws in Tanzania leaves women, particularly widows like Fatuma Mussa and Hadija Salum, vulnerable and economically marginalised. Following her husband's death, Mussa lost her family's four-acre farm, as it was registered solely in his name, illustrating the common issue where women lack legal documentation linking them to property. Similarly, Salum faced challenges in securing a loan to expand her business due to the absence of land ownership certificates. The World Bank reports that less than 5% of agricultural land in Africa is formally documented, with men holding 70% of land titles.

"Approximately 86 million Nigerians lack access to electricity, making Nigeria the leading country globally in terms of the total number of people without electricity," he disclosed.

The AfDB president also highlighted the significant economic impact of the country’s power shortages, stressing that the unreliable electricity supply is crippling Nigerian businesses and industries.

"It has been estimated by the IMF that Nigeria loses about $29 billion annually, or 5.6% of its GDP, due to the lack of a reliable power supply. The report also indicates that Nigeria spends $14 billion per year on generators and fuel," Adesina stated.

He went on to describe how deeply entrenched the reliance on alternative power sources has become, saying, "The lack of electricity is killing Nigerian industries. Today, no business can survive in Nigeria without generators. Consequently, the abnormal has become normal."

Despite Nigeria's rich natural resources, including gas and crude oil, millions of Nigerians live without power. Adesina expressed concern, adding, "Nigeria has gas and crude oil in abundance, yet 86 million people live daily without electricity."

Adesina also spoke on the AfDB's ongoing efforts to address Nigeria’s power challenges. He revealed that the bank is partnering with the World Bank to deliver electricity to 300 million Africans, including Nigerians, by 2030, through a significant investment programme called "Mission 300."

"We have invested $210 million in the Nigeria transmission project to strengthen the grid and support power evacuation and regional interconnection. To fill Nigeria’s electricity access gap, we’ve provided $200 million for the Nigerian electrification project," Adesina explained.

"The President of the World Bank and I made a decision in April that the two banks will connect 300 million Africans, including Nigeria, to electricity by 2030. That’s what is called Mission 300—the largest such effort in the world," he further noted.

The Kariba dam lies on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, 200 kilometres (125 miles) south of Lusaka, the capital.

It was built in the 1950s to generate electricity by trapping water from the Zambezi River. However, after months of drought and rising temperatures, the dam is barely operating.

The lake now has insufficient water to run the country’s hydroelectric turbines and is facing the possibility of a shutdown for the first time since its construction.

It is currently running at less than 10% of its normal capacity, with only one of six turbines operating on the Zambian side.

The power shortage has led to regular outages, with small and medium businesses bearing the brunt of the crisis.

 In some cases, these outages last for days, affecting daily life and severely impacting small and medium start-up businesses .

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Energy has assured that the government is working tirelessly to prevent future occurrences of load shedding by 2026.

“Two years from now, Zambia will be a net exporter of power. We are not sleeping. In two years, hold me accountable,” Mumba was quoted .

ZESCO, the state-owned power company is also receiving funding to address power shortages.

As part of these efforts, more than 23 diesel generators arrived in the country last month, to be installed at various locations in markets around Lusaka.

Mumba emphasized that government is working tirelessly to prevent future occurrences of load shedding.

“Two years from now, Zambia will be a net exporter of power. We are not sleeping. In two years, hold me accountable,” Mumba was quoted .

ZESCO, the state-owned power company is also receiving funding to address power shortages.

As part of these efforts, nine out of 23 diesel generators have already arrived in the country to be installed at various locations in markets around Lusaka.

The remaining 14 generators are expected to arrive subsequently.

Meanwhile, load shedding in some parts of the country have been resolved and power supply is expected to be more stable.

“As of today, the country’s power generation stands at 1,019 megawatts, while demand is 2,400 megawatts, leaving a deficit of 1,381 megawatts. The government will continue working around the clock to find solutions to improve power supply and keep the economy running,” he quoted .

He also mentioned that the government has signed a memorandum of understanding with Power China to establish new power projects in Zambia, further enhancing the country's energy capacity.

While Venezuela is no stranger to power outages, this one was particularly widespread. President Nicolás Maduro's government often blames such incidents on unproven conspiracies aimed at overthrowing him. Authorities reported the blackout began shortly before dawn, but by late afternoon, power was returning to parts of Caracas, as well as the southwestern state of Táchira and western Mérida, according to AFP correspondents.

"We are normalising, regularising, step by step," Maduro said in a televised address on Friday evening, though he did not detail the full extent of the outages or the progress in restoring power. He described the incident as "an attack full of vengeance, full of hatred," accusing "fascist currents" and political opponents, with allegations of U.S. involvement.

Earlier in the day, Communications Minister Freddy Ñáñez had reported "an electrical sabotage... which has affected almost the entire national territory."

In an interview with Global South World, Benedict Owanga shared his journey to entrepreneurship. Originally from Congo, he spent his early years in South Africa, then moved to Canada, and eventually studied law in the United States.

During his second year at law school, a power outage during a crucial training session led him to consider the broader implications of unreliable electricity. "I lost power for an hour but that one hour has shaped my two months' worth of experience," Owanga said. This experience prompted him to think about the daily struggles of those who face frequent power outages.

With his co-founder Chinelo whom he met in law school, they set out to address the severe electricity shortages in Congo.

Despite receiving millions in donor funding, the World Bank reports that just 19 per cent of the Democratic Republic of Congo's 108 million people have access to electricity.

The common and costly methods of power; kerosene lamps and generators which contribute to fossil fuel pollution have proven to be dangerous and harmful to the environment.

Owanga and Chinelo offer a fresh and affordable take on electricity distribution. The company has developed portable battery packs that can power a three-bedroom house or a small shop. These packs are available for rent at $2 a day or can be purchased for $250. They are powered by solar panels or regular grid energy, making them both accessible and sustainable.

"And one thing that we're really proud of is that we make it on the continent, but it's also sustainable," Owanga said.

"So the biggest problem we encountered was just like logistics and getting batteries abroad. So we were like, hey, let's build with what we have." Owanga explained. So we used recycled laptop batteries. We obviously analyse everything, make sure it's safe. And we also use plastic bottles to create the device.

By manufacturing locally, Owanga Solar is also creating skilled labour opportunities for those who need them most.

Launching a hardware company in a developing region presents unique challenges. Owanga and Chinelo faced issues ranging from logistics and production delays to securing funding. Their initial support came from a $10,000 grant from DivInc and a $500 monthly stipend from The Hatchery at Emory University, which allowed them to experiment and refine their prototype. They also gained traction through pitch competitions, which provided additional funding and recognition.

"I really want to try and fix Congo and it all starts with electricity. The moment people are connected to the grid, the moment people have electricity, students, and kids can study much better. Moms can make that money they need," Owanga expressed his desire for change. "And not only that, like the society is so much better and people can be more innovative and people can really open the country."

Watch the full interview:

The Global System for Mobile Communication Association of Zambia (GSMAZ) has highlighted the damning effects of these extended power outages. The blackouts, which can last up to 14 hours a day, have forced telecom companies to rely heavily on backup generators. However, these generators are only designed to provide power for a maximum of four hours.

"The power backup at the telecom sites is generally designed to last up to a maximum of four hours, however, owing to the current unprecedented 13 to 14 hours of daily load shedding, there is a huge cost variance not only for the fuel and generator maintenance but also for the associated fuel delivery logistics for the mobile network operators," noted GSMAZ.

The reliance on generators has led to increased operational costs for fuel and maintenance. The frequent need for refuelling and servicing of generators disrupts the continuity of service, leading to compromised quality of telecommunications services.

"Though backup power is available at these sites through generators, instances when there is electricity downtime, and extended load shedding hours, our provision of quality of service is compromised as the generators now require constant refuelling and more frequent servicing cycles," GSMAZ added.

According to Connecting Africa , The root cause of these power outages is largely attributed to severe climate change. Lake Kariba, Zambia's largest man-made lake, has lost over 98% of its water, drastically reducing its capacity to generate electricity.

This has forced the state-owned power utility, ZESCO, to implement rolling blackouts to manage the limited power supply.

Lusaka City Council's internal audit revealed a fuel scam worth $46,927 involving unauthorised fuel withdrawals and non-runner vehicles. The audit found 23,470 litres of fuel drawn without authority, amounting to $46,927, and $3,666 worth of fuel drawn by non-runner vehicles. The purpose of the fuel drawings was not stated on the fuel coupons, reports News Diggers .

Foreign exchange regulations

Zambia's Finance Minister Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane has clarified that the news draft foreign currency regulations do not mean a return of foreign exchange controls. He also stated that the use of cheques has reduced drastically and is being proposed to be phased out for local financial transactions. The proposals are being presented to stakeholders for consultation by the Bank of Zambia, according to News Diggers . “Both matters pertaining to the draft foreign currency regulations as well as the phasing out of cheques, are draft proposals that are being presented to stakeholders for consultation by the Bank of Zambia (BOZ)," the minister said on Thursday, July 11.

Prolonged blackouts

Zambia's mobile network operators face difficulties due to prolonged blackouts caused by severe climate challenges. The outages, some lasting up to 12 hours, impact the quality of service the telcos offer. DCD reports that the country's power utility, ZESCO, has been implementing rolling blackouts, leading to increased fuel and generator maintenance costs for the operators. Climate change has also led to a significant drop in water levels at Lake Kariba, affecting electricity output for both Zambia and Zimbabwe. South Africa has also suffered from lengthy outages, leading carriers to invest in infrastructure and renewable energy sources to combat the blackouts.

Young farmer discovers the potential of aquaculture in Zambia

Thirty-year-old Aubrain Lyavuka, initially a farm labourer, aspired to transition into fish farming. His chance came when he saw an advertisement for aquaculture training from Zambia’s Solwezi Department of Fisheries. He attended the course, which was part of the Opportunities for Youth in Africa (OYA) Programme. This initiative, developed by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in collaboration with the African Union Commission, aims to train African youth for careers in agriculture, focusing on agribusiness and entrepreneurship development, Perishable News reports.

Parametric solution for Zambian farmers

One Acre Fund and Global Parametrics, a CelsiusPro Group company, have teamed up to offer financial protection to smallholder farmers in Zambia and Malawi against the economic impact of crop loss due to drought. By utilizing data collected and verified by One Acre Fund from individual farmers, they created a water-balance index to determine payouts. This index, which uses weather data from independent third parties, assesses the balance between rainfall and evapotranspiration over a specific period, providing a measure of water availability for crops, highlights Reinsurance News .

Eskom reported a substantial reduction in diesel expenditure for Open Cycle Gas Turbines (OCGT), saving approximately R6.2 billion (approximately $1.1 million) from April 1 to June 30 compared to the same period last year, The Citizen South Africa reports.

"If we maintain our trajectory on reduced diesel spend, it will be a strong driver in a possible return to profit in FY25," said Eskom’s group executive for generation, Bheki Nxumalo.

The achievement is credited to several targeted initiatives, which have reduced unplanned outages in Eskom’s generation fleet from 18,000MW to an average of 12,000MW, showing an improvement of 6,000MW since May 2023.

This enhanced reliability and performance is the result of Eskom’s Generation Operational Recovery Plan, launched in March 2023, and aggressive planned maintenance, made possible by financial support from the National Treasury’s debt relief scheme.

"This accomplishment is the result of our multi-dimensional Generation Operational Recovery Plan and the tireless efforts of our 40,000 dedicated and skilled Eskom employees," said Nxumalo. He added that maintaining a 70% Energy Availability Factor (EAF) and adding significant capacity within the country are crucial to ensuring adequate supply and avoiding future load shedding.

Eskom group CEO Dan Marokane acknowledged the significance of this milestone, especially given the intensity and frequency of load shedding in 2023.

"The ability to reach 100 days without load shedding is significant while acknowledging that the risk of load shedding still exists," he stated.

“At the next NCP meeting, a final announcement of the preferred bidders will be made public. The assets will not only increase revenue for the three levels of government, it will also bring better efficiency for the power sector,” Adelabu is quoted by local media BusinessDay .

The five power plants included in the sale are:

The Benin-Ihovbor plant, featuring five power-generating turbines, is priced at $420 million. The Odukpami plant in Calabar, with five turbines, is valued at approximately $260 million. The Geregu plant, with four turbines, is set at $215 million. The Omotosho plant, also with four turbines, will be sold for about $85 million. Lastly, the Olorunsogo National Integrated Power Project (NIPP), with four turbines, is priced at $170 million, according to BusinessDay.

This sale is a key step towards addressing Nigeria's chronic power shortages. The West African nation's power sector faces numerous challenges that have hindered industrialisation and sustainable economic growth.

In 2022, the power grid reportedly collapsed at least four times. In 2023, it was reported that less than 50% of Nigeria's population had access to a regular power supply, forcing many homes and businesses to rely on generators and other alternative sources of electricity.

Egypt is experiencing severe heat with temperatures exceeding 40°C, leading to an energy crisis and scheduled power cuts. Residents are struggling with unbearable living conditions and increased power outages. The situation is expected to worsen, and the government has promised a resolution by the end of the year, Ynetnews reports.

Power outages

Egyptian MP has urged government to exempt southern provinces from power cuts after 40 deaths in Aswan due to heat wave. Heat and electrical overloads are causing extreme conditions in the south. The New Arab reports that government has also been urged to take prompt action to prevent further casualties.

Diplomatic talks

Iran and Egypt are engaged in diplomatic talks. The talks continue at the highest level after the martyrdom of late Minister of Foreign Affairs Hossein Amir-Abdollahain. According to Mehr News Agency , both countries have emphasised the road map for improving relations. There are hopes for favourable results.

Ship recycling and decommissioning

Brazil’s Porto Central and Modern American Recycling Services Europe are exploring the possibility of establishing a ship recycling and decommissioning yard in Porto, Brazil, to create jobs, revenue, and protect the environment. Safety4Sea reports that in Egypt, the country's first ship scrapping project near Damietta Port is underway, which aims to bolster the iron and steel industry and reduce reliance on imports. The project will meet global regulations and is expected to yield 1.5 million tons of scrap annually over five years.

Basketball league

African basketball pundits have praised Egypt for its strong local league, demonstrated by their teams' representation in the Basketball Africa League, VOA Africa reports.

Drugs including marijuana and cocaine were discovered in the false ceiling of a Chilean police station's bathroom, at 49th Quilicura Police Station, Benzinga reports. The investigation is ongoing to determine how the drugs ended up there and whether there were any security failures. The incident has raised concerns about security and control within police facilities. Authorities are seeking clear answers and measures to prevent similar events from happening in the future.

Internet traffic

Chile's internet traffic has increased by twelve percent and 5G users grown by seventy-four percent in Quarter one. Citing statistics from Subtel, Telecompaper reports that the traffic is still nearly five times greater than mobile. In the period, the number of fixed internet subscribers in Mongolia experienced a slower growth rate of 1.5 percent, reaching 4.543 million, while mobile internet users saw a 1.7 percent increase, totaling 22.796 million. Notably, 5G exhibited robust growth, surging by 74.4 percent to reach 4.251 million users. Additionally, Subtel reported that the proportion of fixed internet users utilising fiber increased to 69.7 percent from 68.1 percent over the past year.

Power outages

Over 400,000 customers in Santiago, Chile were hit by power outages on June 5 after a tree fell on a high-voltage transmission tower. The outage affected 6 percent of the population in multiple parts of the city. According to Intrafish , electricity providers put in work to resolve the situation.

Green transition and green hydrogen

Chile's President Gabriel Boric is focusing on clean energy during his trip to Europe to attract foreign investment and keep the country at the forefront of the global green transition. He aims to double lithium output and promote the export of Chile's renewable energy resources, focusing on green hydrogen. Boric will meet with key leaders in Germany, Sweden, Switzerland, and France to discuss business opportunities and investment in Chile's energy industries. The Financial Post reports that the European Union is a major investor in Chile, with a stock of about $67 billion. Boric is accompanied by Codelco Chair Maximo Pacheco and Corfo's chief executive Jose Miguel Benavente.

Crackdown on salmon production

Chile is cracking down on excessive salmon production, which will impact the seafood industry. Operators of 255 salmon farming sites have been instructed to implement preventative measures to prevent exceeding production limits, or else they risk facing fines, Intrafish reports.

What they said

“Power has been successfully restored to all affected areas following the blackout upon the successful rejection test at Karuma HPP. We appreciate your patience and understanding. If you are still experiencing issues, please report to your local distributor,” a statement from UETCL on X said .

What they said

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) said that the labour union is still obstructing grid recovery despite efforts to restore power. In a statement , the TCN said, "The situation is such that the labour Union is still obstructing grid recovery nationwide. We will continue to make effort to recover and stabilize the grid to enable the restoration of normal bulk transmission of electricity to distribution load centres nationwide".

Thailand's economy grew by 1.5% in the first quarter of 2024, surpassing expectations and avoiding a recession. Factors driving the growth include diversified exports, a strong tourism industry, and continued foreign direct investment, according to Thailand Business News , the government's stimulus scheme could further boost growth to reach 3.3% for the year.

China-Thailand currency agreement

China and Thailand signed an MOU to promote bilateral transactions in local currencies. The central banks of China and Thailand agreed to cooperate on this framework. The MOU was signed by the governors of both central banks in Beijing. They also discussed bilateral financial cooperation, Nation Thailand reports.

Thailand ratifies UN treaty on enforced disappearances

Thailand has ratified the UN treaty on enforced disappearances, bringing the total number of states party to the convention to 74. However, rights groups are skeptical about Bangkok's commitment to enforcing it, as the country has been criticised for trading exiled dissidents and assisting neighbouring governments in taking unlawful action against refugees and dissidents from abroad, according to the Herald Malaysia . Human Rights Watch released a report detailing an upsurge in repression of foreign nationals seeking refugee protection in Thailand, including cases of harassment, surveillance, and physical violence. The report also highlighted cases of dissidents and activists from neighboring countries being targeted while in Thailand, indicating a concerning trend of cross-border disappearances.

Potential power shortages in Thailand’s industrial parks

Thailand's industrial parks may face power shortages as new factories producing printed circuit boards come online. Nearly 30 investments in PCBs were announced in Thailand between January 2023 and April this year, posing a potential strain on the country's power supply. Taiwan Printed Circuit Association Chairman Maurice Lee told Nikkei Asia that most of the new factories will go online by the end of next year.

Return of ancient statues to Thailand

Thailand welcomed the return of two ancient statues from the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. The statues were illegally trafficked from Thailand and are thought to be 1,000 years old. According to Fox News , the museum has also committed to responsible collecting of antiquities and collaborated with Thailand on art exchanges. "The Met initiated the return of these two objects after reviewing information and established that the works rightly belonged to the Kingdom of Thailand," the Museum’s curator of Asian and Southeast Asian art, John Guy said. The return comes as many museums in the U.S. and Europe reckon with collections containing looted objects from Asia and Africa, Fox News reports.

What they said

Deputy Director for power in charge of nuclear and alternative energy, Robert Sogbadji was quoted as saying , “Cabinet will approve the final choice. It can be one vendor or two nations; it will depend on the financial model and the technical details”. According to him, 16 countries and companies had responded to the government's request for vendors, but a technical team of state agencies led by the energy ministry narrowed it down to the current five nations.

The UK has pledged £6 million to train Zambian farmers in climate-smart agriculture techniques. The funding will help reduce deforestation, protect nature, and cut emissions. Farmers will be trained in crop rotation, diversification, and efficient irrigation to prevent forest clearing. The investment will also support agro-forestry and provide digital technology to cope with changing weather patterns. This initiative is part of the UK's efforts to protect nature, tackle climate change, and halt and reverse forest loss by 2030. Chief Nyamphande of Nyamphande Chiefdom in Eastern Zambia has expressed gratitude for the program's support in adapting to climate-sensitive agricultural practices, NUK reports.

Power outages

ZESCO Limited may increase load-shedding hours sooner than expected due to high power usage. Some areas are already experiencing more than eight hours of outages. According to News Diggers , the company has revised the load-shedding schedule to distribute power outages more equitably. Customers are concerned about the extended duration of outages, with power sometimes being off for 11 or 12 hours.

Road offences

A joint task force of Zambia Police and RTSA impounded 50 vehicles in Lusaka's CBD for various road offences. The vehicles included 44 minibuses, a Toyota Hiace, and six private vehicles. The operation was carried out on May 2, 2024, from 08:00 to 18:00 hours, News Diggers reports.

Solar power supply

Zambia and Turkey's YEO are partnering to build a 60 MW/20 MWh solar plant with battery storage in southern Zambia, expected to be operational by September 2025. The project aims to provide electricity to 65,000 households and mitigate power shortages in the country. According to PV Magazine , the Zambian government is also looking to tap into Turkey's expertise in engineering and battery storage to set up an assembly plant in the country.

Press freedom

The Ministry of Information and Media reaffirms the government's commitment to an independent and vibrant press. News Diggers reports that the Permanent Secretary pledged support to protect the media and recognize the power of journalism as a force for positive change in addressing the environmental crisis. This commitment was made during the commemoration of World Press Freedom Day.

Sierra Leone's minister in charge of energy, Kanja Sesay resigned on Monday, April 29 after an end to the electricity crisis that lasted in Freetown and other cities for almost a month. The blackout was caused by the non-payment of $48 million owed to Turkish electricity provider Karpowership. APA reports that An outstanding $18 million has been paid, prompting the energy minister to resign. The situation is now under the president’s office.

Sexual violence

In 2019, President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone made a decisive move by declaring a national emergency to address the pervasive issue of rape and sexual violence. Now, five years later, BBC Africa Eye delves into the question of whether survivors of these heinous acts are receiving the justice they deserve. The national emergency declared in Sierra Leone aimed to address the widespread issue of sexual violence. The government implemented measures such as creating special police units and fast-tracking court cases, but it's unclear if the emergency declaration made a significant impact. The issue of sexual violence in Sierra Leone remains a complex and deeply rooted problem.

Cybercrime instrument

On April 19, 2024, the Embassy of Sierra Leone in Brussels officially submitted the instrument of accession to the Convention on Cybercrime (ETS 185). With Sierra Leone's accession, the total number of Parties to the Convention rises to 71, while two states have signed it, and 20 others have been invited to accede. The Council of Europe and Sierra Leonean authorities pledge ongoing cooperation to ensure the thorough implementation of the Convention on Cybercrime.

Malaria vaccines rolled out

Liberia, Benin, and Sierra Leone have rolled out a malaria vaccine targeting millions of children, announced on World Malaria Day. According to The Standard , the vaccine rollout aims to scale up vaccine deployment in the African region, with several other countries scheduled to roll it out in 2025. Liberia's Minister of Health, Louise Kpoto, emphasised the impact of the vaccine in protecting children from malaria. Liberia is set to benefit from 112,000 doses of the vaccine, with at least 45,000 children expected to benefit.

Human rights breaches

The US Department of State has issued a damning human rights report on Sierra Leone, citing arbitrary killings, political prisoners, and government corruption. Atlas News explains that the report details repressive activities by the ruling party, abuses by security forces, and limitations on media freedom. The US has provided millions in aid to Sierra Leone, but the country still faces high maternal mortality rates and widespread poverty. Despite this, the US continues to train Sierra Leone's armed forces and a former US Green Beret serves as the country's National Security Advisor. The appointment of the former Green Beret as National Security Advisor raises concerns about US engagement with the government. The US policy in Sierra Leone may also be focused on preventing increased authoritarianism and promoting democratic practices.

The power outage in Ghana, known as 'dumsor', has been a pressing issue due to technical challenges resulting from a lack of fuel. However, Samuel Atta Akyea, the Chairman of the Mines and Energy Committee of Parliament has assured Ghanaians that the problem will be resolved soon. GhanaWeb reports that a committee has instructed the Electricity Company of Ghana to release a load-shedding timetable. Efforts are underway to address the fundamental problem and suspend the export of power until the issue is resolved. The president of the republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo also expressed commitment to addressing the power outage.

U.S. Peace Corps volunteer in Ghana

The U.S. Peace Corps has welcomed 20 new volunteers to Ghana, marking the largest cohort since the onset of COVID-19. These volunteers will work with local communities over the next two years to address critical needs, promote sustainable development, and build bridges of understanding. The Peace Corps in Ghana has a longstanding tradition of focusing on projects related to climate change, including tree nurseries and climate-smart agriculture. This swearing-in ceremony initiates their service in communities across Ghana. Virginia Palmer, the U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, participated alongside Ghanaian officials, returning volunteers, and supporters in the official swearing-in ceremony of 20 new Peace Corps Volunteers, Myjoyonline reports.

Food inflation and currency stability

The Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA) Ghana has urged the Ghanaian government to tackle food inflation with an emphasis on its impact on total inflation. The institute also highlighted the need to increase foreign exchange earnings and reduce import demand to stabilise the Cedi currency. According to Ghana Business News , the Governor of the Bank of Ghana, Ernest Addison, reported a decline in headline inflation, but the IEA expressed concerns about the sustainability of relying on external funds to strengthen the currency. Ghana just like many African nations is grappling with a huge depreciation of its currency against the U.S. dollar.

Ivorian taxi driver flees to Ghana after alleged murder

An Ivorian taxi driver, Nduoba Essoi Fulgence, was arrested in Ghana for allegedly killing his girlfriend in Côte d'Ivoire. The Ghana Immigration Service apprehended him at a village near Anyinase in the Western Region and handed him over to the Ivorian Police for further legal proceedings on April 2. GhanaWeb reports that Fulgence stands accused of brutally slashing the throat of his girlfriend, known as Nda Abekan Anne or Ella, before fleeing to Ghana and initial investigations indicated that Fulgence may have attempted to seek refuge with relatives in the Edwakpole village, situated roughly 50 kilometres from Elubo.

Public health emergency fund

Global Health Advocacy Incubator (GHAI) and SEND GHANA have urged the Government of Ghana to establish a Public Health Emergency Fund to address current health challenges and improve epidemic preparedness financing. They argue that this fund would strengthen the country's health security capacities and ensure a rapid and effective response to health emergencies. The fund's establishment is seen as crucial for safeguarding the nation's health security and mitigating the spread of diseases, Modern Ghana reports. The Ghana Epidemic Preparedness Financing Advocacy campaign aims to enhance public health systems, advocate for improved health policies, and ensure universal access to healthcare.

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) has announced a stable national power supply, apologising for recent power outages and urging affected customers to contact their office for immediate action. The unstable power supply had caused inconvenience and concerns in many parts of the country but ECG has now fixed the issue, GhanaWeb reports.

  Easter Friday activities

Easter Friday saw major transport operators in Accra, the capital of Ghana experiencing low patronage on their routes, with some terminals recording a 30% decline in passenger volumes compared to last year. According to ModernGhana , the operators attributed this to the Ramadan fasting period and general economic challenges. Despite the slow start, they remain optimistic that patronage will increase in the coming days.

WAFU U-17 games

Ghana will host the WAFU U-17 boys tournament in Accra on May 15th, 2024. The event will feature teams from Nigeria, Cote d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, Togo, Benin, and Niger, with a spot in the U17 Africa Cup of Nations at stake. The Black Starlets will aim to perform well on home soil, after an early exit in the last edition. The tournament runs until May 29th, 2024, GhanaWeb reports.

Politicians urged to be decent in language

Political party communicators are being advised to use decent and respectful language during discussions on national issues to maintain national peace. The National Commission of Civic Education (NCCE) Director in the Bono Region, Cynthia Anima Boadu emphasised the need for vigilance against terrorism, particularly in the Bono region. Ali Ibrahim Adjei, Regional Vice Chair of the NDC also underscored the importance of fairness from the Peace Council and religious organizations and reiterated their commitment to peaceful elections, according to the Ghana News Agency .

Fibre optics inventor dies

Dr. Thomas Mensah, a pioneering Ghanaian-American inventor known for his work in fibre optics, has passed away at the age of 74 after a short illness, according to the Daily Guide . His innovations revolutionised telecommunications and technology, paving the way for high-speed data transmission. His legacy continues to inspire future generations of scientists and engineers.

They indicated that some 630 distribution transformers in communities across its operational zones are above capacity due to increased power consumption and this might result in blown fuses and conductors which will result in the outages.

While they pledged to put in work to deal with the issue quickly, many Ghanaians have expressed disappointment about the situation.

Their concerns follow similar power outages labeled as ‘Dumsor’ happening in parts of the country prior to the ECG’s announcement with suggestions that the country is facing a power crisis.

Barely a week ago, the power in Ghana’s parliament went out during a sitting, leaving some parliamentarians stranded in elevators in the building who eventually had to be rescued.

For many, the subject is being politicised with dire consequences for citizens.

On X, several Ghanaians voiced their unhappiness about the situation, calling for the government to clearly state what they say is the situation on the ground and provide practical measures to tackle it.

This particularly became profound as a guest on one of the country’s local television was captured having experienced power outage during an interview on live television.

Below are some comments

Following this, the Finance Ministry directed the state institutions responsible for the supply of power to suspend any such deductions pending further discussions with stakeholders.

In a press release issued on February 7, the Ministry instructed the Electricity Company of Ghana Ltd. (ECG) and the Northern Electricity Distribution Company (NEDCO) to hold on to a previous order for the implementation of the said tax.

The Ministry further indicated that arrangements are underway to meet with Organised Labour for a resolution to the development.

“On behalf of the Government, MoF would like to inform ECG and NEDCO to suspend the implementation of the VAT directive pending further engagements with key stakeholders including Organised Labour.

“The Ministry expects that these engagements will birth innovative robust and inclusive approaches to bridging the existing fiscal gap while bolstering economic resilience,” the statement further added.

Earlier, labour unions opposed the new tax and announced nationwide protests against it on February 13.

These labour unions insist on their planned nationwide demonstrations against the implementation of the policy if the tax is not totally withdrawn.

Fourteen (14) districts in Malawi have been affected by natural disasters in recent times owing to heavy rainfall activities including storms, strong winds, and lightning, news outlet Malawi 24 reports. According to the Department of Disaster Management Affairs (DoDMA), five (5) deaths have also been recorded as a result of lightning strikes and 46 injuries. Relief efforts are ongoing to assist affected persons, approximately 21,379 people.

Power outage issues

State-owned power distributor, the Electricity Supply Corporation of Malawi (ESCOM) has announced that emergency maintenance works will be carried out in parts of Nkhata Bay, the capital of the Nkhata Bay District in Malawi on January 10, 2024. Areas including Msomba, Sanga, Vizara, Kawalazi, and Chitheka will be cut off the national grid for the period and have been urged to switch off all electrical devices, according to a release by ESCOM on platform X.

Infrastructural development

Minister of Local Government, Unity, and Culture, Richard Chimwendo Banda has reiterated the government’s commitment to improving the lives of the people of Kasungu. Speaking at a rally on January 7, 2024, the minister said rehabilitation works have begun on the M1 road from Lilongwe through Kasungu to Karonga. The M1 road passing through Kasungu is being rehabilitated. We have also seen the rehabilitation of Kasungu District Hospital and the construction of bridges, roads, and clinics here in the East Constituency. This signals the government's commitment to serving the people. On the other hand, we know Kasungu is a farming district. So we want to assure the farmers and everyone that there will be good prices for their produce. We saw good tobacco prices last year and this year it will be even better,” he was quoted by the Malawi News Agency .

Food aid

Officials from the World Food Program (WFP) have clarified the reasoning behind their decision to import maize flour from Tanzania to be distributed to Malawians. This comes after the government banned the importation of maize from its neighbours because of the outbreak of the maize lethal virus. According to local news outlet Nyasa Times , the WFP Deputy Country for Malawi, Simon Denhere says the decision to import was made in consultation with the Ministry of Agriculture on January 4, 2024.

MANEB extends examinations deadline

The Malawi National Examinations Board (MANEB) has extended the deadline for registration and payment of the 2024 national exam fees following the failure of more than 29,000 students to pay the fees. According to Malawi 24 , MANEB had initially set December 31, 2023, as deadline for the registration and payment for Primary School Leaving Certificate of Education (PSLCE), Junior Certificate of Education (JCE), and Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) exams. The new deadline for registration is January 12.

Although the company indicated that the cause of the fault has not yet been determined, it indicates that power is being restored in phases in various parts of the country.

“We commenced restoration of power supply in the Southern Region from 3.50 PM (1.50 PM GMT). Restoration of the power supply is being done gradually to safeguard the system. We will keep you updated as the restoration of power supply progresses until the situation normalizes,” parts of a statement from ESCOM on X said.

The company further indicates in another statement that emergency maintenance works will be carried out in parts of Nkhata Bay, the capital of the Nkhata Bay District in Malawi. Areas including Msomba, Sanga, Vizara, Kawalazi, and Chitheka will be cut off the national grid for the period and have been urged to switch off all electrical devices.

Malawi has had power issues in recent times, leading to load-shedding schedules in some areas.