As the Nigerian tradition of dressing in matching outfits for special events continues to grow in popularity, it brings with it a threat of social exclusion.
The Conversation
Arts and Culture Why it’s so difficult to end female genital mutilation
An estimated 130 million women have undergone female genital mutilation and millions more are at risk. The practice is carried out mainly for cultural and economic reasons.
Arts and Culture Cannabis in South Africa: the duplicity of colonial authorities
There are two histories of dagga in South Africa – the one of criminalising it and the other of the state trying to make money off it.
Politics and Society Why Ethiopia is in deep trouble, and how it got here
Abiy’s administration should stop talking about reform and liberalisation and focus instead on stopping the country from sliding into disarray
Politics and Society Daniel arap Moi: the making of a Kenyan ‘big man’
Moi’s financial generosity, skills in the vernacular, frequent tours of the countryside, and excellent memory for names and faces kept him popular with many.
Arts and Culture Matches on and off the field: Nigerian wives pick a side
Support for European soccer clubs is defining relationships between spouses.
Politics and Society Crisis at Nairobi University has its roots in decades of political interference
The crisis at Nairobi University falls within an established pattern of government intervention in universities going back decades
Politics and Society China’s approach to peace in Africa is different. How and why
The Chinese model of peace differs fundamentally from that pursued by western nations.
Politics and Society What’s behind violence in South Africa: a sociologist’s perspective
Underlying direct or personal violence is structural violence that is entrenched in unequal power relations in society.