Africa: South Africa’s Rising Energy Prices Spur Innovative Startups

Tanzanians mourn the passing of veteran politician Job Ndugai, former Speaker of Parliament, who died at 62 in Dodoma after a hospital treatment. Ndugai, a 25-year MP known for his loyalty to the ruling CCM party, resigned in 2022 following controversial remarks on national debt, and was preparing to defend his seat in the upcoming elections. Want More Context? 🔎

An image by AFP photojournalist Omar al-Qattaa shows a malnourished girl in Gaza, sparking significant concern online. However, when questioned about its origin, the AI chatbot Grok mistakenly identified the photograph as being taken in Yemen nearly seven years prior, highlighting challenges in the accuracy of AI-generated information. Want More Context? 🔎

Ghanaian authorities have seized a luxury Lamborghini Urus linked to musician Shatta Wale amid allegations of its connection to fraudster Nana Kwabena Amuah, who is imprisoned in the US. Wale, claiming he is a "third-party owner," criticized the armed recovery operation and stated he had purchased the car for $150,000, while it will be returned to the US as part of Amuah's restitution. Want More Context? 🔎

Members of Nigeria's national female basketball team, D'Tigress, will receive $100,000 and three-bedroom flats each following their victory at the Fiba Women's AfroBasket Championship, securing their seventh title and a spot in next year's World Cup. Mixed reactions have emerged regarding the sustainability of these rewards, given the country's economic challenges and past delays in fulfilling similar promises. Want More Context? 🔎

Ghana's Defence Minister Edward Omane Boamah and Environment Minister Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed were among eight people killed in a military helicopter crash in the Ashanti region. The aircraft, en route from Accra to Obuasi for an event on illegal mining, went off the radar, prompting national mourning and tributes from President John Mahama and other officials. Want More Context? 🔎

Nigeria's customs agency intercepted over 1,600 birds, including ring-necked parrots and canaries, at Lagos International Airport in the country's largest wildlife-trafficking bust. The shipment lacked necessary documentation, prompting an investigation to prosecute those responsible, while the birds will be rehabilitated before being released into the wild. Want More Context? 🔎