Predominant public sentiment remains largely anti-homosexual and overshadows constitutionally guaranteed rights in Africa.
Social justice
Arts and Culture Celebrating “the life and legacy of a voice of change”: Google pays tribute to Nkosi Johnson
To remember, celebrate and honour one of the world’s best-known child HIV/AIDS campaigners Google today published a doodle, dedicated to the late South African AIDS activist Nkosi Johnson. Celebrating Nkosi’s remarkable legacy, Google said the “Doodle honors the life and legacy of a voice of change heard by millions around the world”.
Africans rising Ivorian photographer Joana Choumali becomes first African to win the Prix Pictet
Ivorian photographer Joana Choumali is the first African and second woman to win the Prix Pictet. Her series Ça va aller (It will be OK) is made up of ornate patterns embroidered on to photographs that depict Grand Bassam after a group of devastating terror attacks in March 2016.
Politics and Society University of Bristol appoints history of slavery professor to interrogate its past
The United Kingdom’s first black female history professor, Olivette Otele, is set to take on the role of interrogating the University of Bristol’s part in the transatlantic slave trade. She will help the university better understand its past as it struggles to keep up with its counterparts.
Africans rising Somali activist Ilwad Elman tipped to win the 2019 Nobel Peace Prize
Somali social rights activist Ilwad Elman has been nominated for the 2019 Nobel Peace Prize. The Prize honours persons who have done the most or the best work for fraternity between the nations and the abolition or reduction of standing armies and the formation and spreading of peace congresses.
Politics and Society Zimbabweans too intimidated to speak out, even in South Africa
“Government monitors social media. I am scared if I make negative comments, I would get blacklisted and not get my passport.”
Politics and Society Kenya deports 17 foreign directors in war against betting
Kenya’s interior ministry has ordered the deportation of 17 foreign betting firm directors as the government clamps down on betting due to negative social impact concerns. The country’s Betting Control and Licensing Board had also declined to renew licences of 19 firms in order to review their operations.
Politics and Society Stella Nyanzi: the formidable feminist foe Museveni has failed to silence
Academic Stella Nyanzi has been daring in her critique of Uganda’s Yoweri Museveni. She now faces jail for her outspokenness.
Politics and Society How Social Media has amplified voices of Nigerians seeking justice
Social media has become an essential tool to amplify voices of the citizens and organisations campaigning for legal and social justice across the continent.