The Democratic Republic of the Congo is experiencing a significant outbreak of the Mpox virus, with nearly 20,000 cases and over 600 deaths reported this year. The World Health Organization has declared it a public health emergency due to the emergence of a new, more virulent variant. The epidemic is exacerbated by a humanitarian crisis in the region, with ongoing conflict and poor living conditions contributing to the virus's spread. Efforts to combat the outbreak include the arrival of vaccines from Japan and the United States, though experts emphasize the need for a holistic approach involving community engagement. The situation is further complicated by the stigma associated with the disease's transmission, reminiscent of early HIV/AIDS challenges.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is experiencing a significant outbreak of the Mpox virus, with nearly 20,000 cases and over 600 deaths reported this year. The World Health Organization has declared it a public health emergency due to the emergence of a new, more contagious variant. The outbreak is exacerbated by a humanitarian crisis in the region, with many displaced by conflict. Efforts to combat the virus include vaccination campaigns supported by international aid, though challenges remain in public health messaging and community engagement.

In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the government has turned to militias, including the Alliance of Patriots for a Free and Sovereign Congo (APCLS), to combat the M23 rebel group. These militias, known as Wazalendo, are accused of human rights abuses and recruiting child soldiers. The conflict, exacerbated by Rwandan support for M23, has displaced 1.7 million people and increased regional tensions. Despite government support, the militias have been ineffective against M23, raising concerns about future security and the potential for further militarization. The situation is described as a 'ticking time bomb,' with calls for demobilization and development to address underlying issues.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo's strategy to combat the M23 rebel group by supporting local militias, known as Wazalendo, has led to increased human rights abuses and the recruitment of child soldiers. These militias, some of which have histories of conflict with each other, are exploiting civilians and expanding their territories under the guise of patriotism. The Congolese army's collaboration with these groups has undermined demobilization efforts and exacerbated regional tensions, particularly with Rwanda. The conflict has displaced 1.7 million people and resulted in numerous casualties, including child soldiers. Analysts warn that the government's reliance on these militias could lead to future security challenges, as they have been legitimized and empowered by the state.

South Africa faces significant socio-economic challenges as the African National Congress (ANC), once a symbol of liberation, struggles with corruption and governance issues. Despite promises of economic recovery by President Cyril Ramaphosa, the country grapples with high unemployment, poverty, and deteriorating infrastructure. As general elections approach, the ANC risks losing its majority, with opposition parties criticizing its failures. The article highlights the disillusionment among citizens who once believed in the ANC's vision, reflecting on the unfulfilled promises since the end of apartheid.

Wind turbine projects on the border of a large national park in South Africa are facing fierce resistance due to concerns that they could disrupt communication among elephants and make them aggressive. Patricia Huon, reporting from Addo National Park, relays the distress of Joe Manjoko, who views the turbines as a monstrosity.

In South Africa, wind turbine projects on the border of a large national park are facing fierce resistance. The turbines could disrupt communication among elephants and make them aggressive, according to local concerns.

Nearly ten years after the murder of his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp, former South African Paralympic champion Oscar Pistorius was released from prison on January 5. The case highlights issues of femicide and domestic violence, with Pistorius having shot Steenkamp through a bathroom door, claiming he mistook her for an intruder. Initially convicted of culpable homicide, his sentence was later increased to murder by the Supreme Court in 2017, resulting in over 13 years of detention. Pistorius's release after serving half his sentence has been met with criticism from those fighting impunity for violence against women in South Africa. While in prison, Pistorius lived in a facility suited for disabled inmates and will remain under surveillance for six years, with conditions including therapy and anger management training.

Zeinab Yacoub, a former student from El-Geneina in Sudan's Darfur region, recounts the dire conditions faced by Sudanese refugees in Chad. Fleeing the war-torn region, she now resides in a makeshift shelter in a large refugee camp in eastern Chad with her two daughters. The article highlights the severe humanitarian crisis, emphasizing the lack of safety in Sudan and the refugees' desperate need for basic necessities.

In the upscale neighborhood of Houghton, a suburb of Johannesburg where Nelson Mandela lived until his death, one of his former residences was transformed two years ago into a luxury guest house.