Africa: Sub-Saharan Africa Lost $1.56bn to Internet Shutdown in 2024 – Report

Teklemariam BekitEditor, BBC TigrinyaAFP via Getty ImagesFor many Eritreans, the hopes of the early days of the presidency of Isaias (left in 1994) have been dashed 30 years laterOnce hailed as a reformist leader, Eritrea's president Isaias Afwerki has ruled for over 32 years without ever holding elections, consolidating power at his rural residence while hopes for democracy faded after his initial promises in the 1990s. Following the 2001 crackdown on dissent, including the arrest...

The national Department of Public Works' attempt to evict unlawfully occupying residents from a Cape Town CBD building has faced another delay, as it requested a postponement for further consultations with the City of Cape Town and Ndifuna Ukwazi. This development highlights ongoing tensions regarding land use and housing in the area. Need More Context? 🔎

Residents unlawfully occupying a building in Cape Town's CBD face potential eviction if the Western Cape High Court grants an order to the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure. They warn that such an action would leave them homeless, emphasizing the urgent need for alternative accommodation. Need More Context? 🔎

Julius Malema, a controversial South African politician, has been denied entry to the UK due to being deemed "non-conducive to the public good," with the Home Office citing his support for Hamas and threats against white people as reasons. This marks the second rejection in two months, with no right of appeal, prompting his party, the Economic Freedom Fighters, to label the decision as "cowardice." Need More Context? 🔎

Sibuyile Magingxa, co-winner of Johannesburg’s R263-million water tanker tender, and his partner Lesedi Phala were seen in a South African delegation alongside Paul Mashatile, despite their absence from official records. This situation highlights issues of access without accountability and the influence of political connections in tender processes. Need More Context? 🔎

African countries are working towards unifying their labour migration policies through a draft Model Law on Labour Migration aimed at addressing issues like xenophobia and migrant rights. Developed by the Pan-African Parliament, this proposal seeks to harmonize existing legal frameworks and enhance protections for migrants, but its success hinges on the political will of member states to implement the law effectively. Need More Context? 🔎