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

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? 🔎

The US will implement a 12-month pilot program requiring citizens from Malawi and Zambia to pay a $15,000 deposit for tourist or business visas to reduce visa overstays. This initiative stems from President Trump's efforts to curb illegal immigration and may expand to other countries with high overstay rates, as identified by the State Department. Want More Context? 🔎

The Charity Commission found no evidence of widespread bullying or harassment at Sentebale, the charity founded by Prince Harry, following a public dispute that led to his resignation. While the current leadership will remain, the commission criticized all parties for the damaging public fallout and provided a regulatory action plan to address governance weaknesses. Want More Context? 🔎

The UN's World Food Programme warns that families in besieged el-Fasher, Sudan, face starvation due to over a year of failed food deliveries amid a civil war, with local reports of deaths from hunger. The RSF has cut supply lines, while humanitarian access remains blocked as the region grapples with severe malnutrition, particularly among children. Want More Context? 🔎

A BBC Africa Eye investigation uncovered the trafficking of girls as young as 13 for sex in Maai Mahiu, Kenya, facilitated by women known as "madams." Undercover footage revealed the normalization of child prostitution in this transport hub, with little law enforcement response despite the legal risks involved, highlighting the urgent need for action against this exploitation. Want More Context? 🔎