Despite the fact that the more known African writers write in English, French and other non-indigenous languages, TIA’s Bwesigye bwa Mwesigire argues that there is proof that writing in indigenous languages on the continent has a bright future
Politics and Society The killing of Emmanuel Jossias
The coldblooded killing of a Mozambican man that made headlines around the world during the April violence against foreign nationals in South Africa was not characterised by xenophobia, so says the government. Then what does lie behind his murder?
Politics and Society Public Order and Processions in Zimbabwe: Are We Paying the State to Protest?
In Zimbabwe, citizens are not allowed to embark on public demonstrations without the consent of a ‘regulatory authority’ of a geographic area. This involves a lot of red tape as a stumbling block. On top of that, those who wish to assemble and express themselves must pay the police. But why should ordinary citizens have to pay money to exercise a constitutional right?
Lifestyle Puku, the stylish USB charger created by Africans
Puku, the brainchild of three African entrepreneurs, is a stylish, high-powered, high-capacity USB charger for mobile devices which has been garnering a lot of buzz and attention in the tech world. TiA correspondent, Atane Ofiaja, spoke with Ani Onuorah, one of the co-founders and president of the company to chat about the journey so far
Lifestyle The Caine is about the story, not the writer: On the Shortlisting of a former winner
The recently announced shortlist of the Caine Prize 2015 includes three stories by writers whose other stories have ever been shortlisted, one of whom has won the prize before. TIA’s Bwesigye bwa Mwesigire considers what it means for the identity of the Caine Prize to have a former winner shortlisted again
Politics and Society Corruption and Buhari’s perfect storm
Come May 29, Nigerians will look to the “Answer” to answer about corruption. They will look for evidence that their new president has plans to jail those who, through acts of corruption, have contributed to wrecking Nigeria. They will look to him to neutralize Boko Haram. They will demand a roadmap to reliable electric power. They will want to see movement on fixing their country’s dilapidated infrastructure
African identities Does culture preclude the right to safe sex on the continent?
Culture and tradition have long been used as a means of shutting down debate on Sexual Reproductive and Health Rights on the continent even as the most vulnerable members of our society continue to suffer because of our chronic inability to engage with these matters. The context we live in has made it clear that regional bodies can no longer ignore issues such as abortion, safe sex and violence against sexual minorities as these are issues facing the majority on the continent today
Politics and Society The young and the violent
So, when all the foreigners have left South Africa and all the colonial statues have been removed, who will the youth turn to next to direct their frustrations?
Politics and Society What’s really wrong with the state of journalism?
The need for balanced and accurate reporting about conflict situations in Africa is more crucial than ever. Surveys done in the run-up to World Press Freedom Day showed that government repression against the media has dramatically increased the threats faced by journalists. In many cases, local journalists facing repression in Africa are the most vulnerable as they lack the support of large media houses and international organisations