Africa: Still Hopes for a Future Plastic Treaty – but It Won’t Be Easy

Limpopo teacher Job Legodi faced consequences after telling his principal, Marupeng Ramootla, to "voetsek." He received a R3,000 fine and a final written warning from the provincial education department for using vulgar language in their exchange. Legodi subsequently approached the Education Labour Relations Council to contest the disciplinary action taken against him. Full Article

Summary After a trial-within-a-trial lasting over two weeks, Judge Nathan Erasmus ruled that statements implicating accused individuals Jacquen "Boeta" Appolis and Steveno Van Rhyn in the kidnapping and trafficking of Joshlin Smith can be admitted as evidence. This decision came after careful consideration of the testimonies and circumstances surrounding the case. The ruling is pivotal as it allows critical evidence to be presented in the ongoing trial, potentially impacting the outcomes for the accused. Full...

The US embassy in Zambia has issued a warning to its citizens regarding a new cyber-security law that mandates the interception and surveillance of all electronic communications, raising concerns about privacy and potential misuse against government critics. While the Zambian government asserts the law aims to combat online fraud and disinformation, critics, including civil rights activists and opposition lawmakers, argue it undermines freedom of expression. The law, signed by President Hakainde Hichilema, has faced backlash...

Gabon international Aaron Boupendza has died at the age of 28 after reportedly falling from a building in China. The forward, who earned 35 caps for Gabon and played at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, had recently joined Zhejiang FC after stints in various countries including Romania and Turkey. Gabon's football federation and president-elect Gen Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema paid tribute to him, recognizing his talent and contributions to Gabonese football. Full Article

The US and Somalia conducted a coordinated airstrike on al-Shabab militants in Adan Yabaal, a town crucial for military operations, killing 12 militants, including senior leaders, amid fears of a jihadist resurgence. Al-Shabab, which has battled the Somali government for nearly 20 years, claimed to have captured the town after a raid, though the government did not confirm this. President Mohamud emphasized the government's determination to defeat the militants, despite acknowledging occasional setbacks in the...

Researchers advocate for the inclusion of plantains, cassava, and fermented banana drink in global healthy eating guidelines, highlighting the positive effects of the traditional Tanzanian diet on the immune system and inflammation markers. A study found that switching from a heritage diet to a western-style diet increased inflammatory markers and weight, while reverting to heritage foods had anti-inflammatory benefits. With rising non-communicable diseases in Africa, the researchers stress the urgency of documenting and promoting African...