Africa: Oxfam Reaction to USAID Funding Cuts in DRC

In 2025, the UN will mark 80 years without a female Secretary-General, highlighting its failure to practice gender equality despite promoting it globally. The upcoming CSW69 in New York will assess gender equality progress while the UN itself struggles with male dominance and lack of women representation in leadership. Civil society campaigns like 1 for 8 Billion are pushing for transformative reforms, demanding transparency in the Secretary-General selection process and the nomination of feminist women...

The SPAR Grand Prix series kicks off on March 30 with the SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge in Cape Town, where elite runners compete for points and prize money. The champion will receive R200 000, with additional prizes for the top South African runners and junior participants. Hyundai Automotive South Africa is the new national vehicle sponsor, offering five Hyundai Exter vehicles as prizes at the races. Full Article

French Polynesia is a captivating destination with postcard-perfect beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and a relaxed island life. The best way to explore the region is by plane, with Air Tahiti and Air Moana being the main airlines. Island hopping passes are available, and once on the islands, transportation options include cars, scooters, and bicycles. The author visited Moorea, Rangiroa, and Fakarava for their stunning beaches and world-class scuba diving, skipping popular honeymoon spots like Bora...

The talks between the African Development Bank Group and the Republic of Congo focused on strengthening their partnership, with grant agreements signed to address energy challenges. Discussions with government officials emphasized support for national development priorities and structural reforms, particularly in debt management. The Bank also explored new funding opportunities in key sectors like energy, digital infrastructure, and roads, while planning technical assistance to help Congo reassess its GDP and potentially join the second cohort...

Steenberg Farm in Cape Town's Constantia Valley offers South Africa's first augmented reality vineyard tour, allowing guests to experience the wine harvest season without physically handling grapes. Through QR codes along the vineyard trail, visitors can unlock AR content featuring insights from the winemaker and viticulturist, as well as footage of pickers at work. This innovative initiative is a first for South Africa, revolutionizing the wine harvest experience. Full Article

Sbongile Dlamini remains in custody as her bail hearing, regarding her alleged involvement in her husband's murder, is set for March 10 in Springs Magistrate’s Court. Dlamini claims she was coerced into confessing to the murder after being tortured by officers, who also arrested her co-defendant, Nhliziyozabantu Magwanyana, accusing him of shooting the victim. The state refuted Dlamini's claims and presented evidence showing that her child with special needs has been cared for by his...