AfricaLink
News, Analysis and Service from Germany and Europe - in 30 Languages
Autism Awareness Day: Nigeria launches biggest screening
Nigeria is marking World Autism Day with its biggest-ever screening drive. The nationwide initiative, "Spark a Spectrum of Possibilities 2026," offers free screenings and consultations aiming to improve early diagnosis and support for thousands of children. Adwoa Tenkoramaa Domena speaks to autism campaigner Maria Okafor, founder of the RBM Autism…
Zimbabwe split over electoral reforms
Zimbabwe's constitutional reform push is sparking intense debate. Critics warn it could extend President Mnangagwa's term and significantly impact how leaders are chosen, but supporters say it will stabilize the country. As public hearings continue, Eddy Micah Jr. speaks with activist Namatai Kwekweza and DW correspondent Columbus Mavhunga to unpack…
Uganda's free-visa policy: Will it lure more visitors?
Uganda has granted visa‑free entry to 40. The move deepens ties with East African neighbours and 21 African nations, while extending perks to select Caribbean, Gulf and Asian states — yet notably excludes the US, EU and the UK. What does this shift say about Uganda’s strategy? Eddy Micah Jnr…
Inside Nigeria's 'money marriages'
In some Nigerian communities, a harmful practice known as 'money marriage,' where young girls are given away to settle family debts, persists. Though outlawed, the tradition is driven by poverty, social pressure, and weak enforcement. What can be done to stop it? Eddy Micah Jr. speaks with lawyer and gender…
Zimbabwe fares double as fuel prices soar
Fuel hikes in Zimbabwe have pushed petrol above $2 a liter and forced transport fares to double, deepening the cost-of-living crisis and leaving many struggling to keep up with rising daily expenses.
TB surge in Southern Africa: Why cases are rising
Despite being curable, tuberculosis (TB) is spreading fast in South Africa and Mozambique. What's driving the rise, and what solutions lie in communities themselves?
Under pressure: LGBTQ+ crackdown in Ghana and Senegal
Ghana's revived anti-LGBTQ+ bill could see offenders jailed for up to three years, while Senegal now imposes sentences of up to ten years for same‑sex relations. What's driving this regional crackdown? Lucy Riley speaks with Angel Maxine—Ghana's first openly transgender musician—and her mother about what it means to raise a…
Maiduguri attacks: What they signal for Nigeria
A wave of deadly blasts rocked Maiduguri in northeastern Nigeria after years of relative calm. More than 20 people killed, over 100 injured. Is this a resurgence of jihadist violence, or a warning that the conflict never really ended? Lucy Riley speaks to Malik Samuel, senior researcher at Good Governance…
Guinea's border tensions: Can ECOWAS calm it?
A new border dispute is erupting as Liberia and Sierra Leone accuse Guinean troops of crossing into their territory to seize land. Guinea denies this, stating its recent military deployments are defensive. Regional leaders are now seeking a diplomatic solution. In this AfricaLink episode, Lucy Riley speaks with Liberian activist…
Uganda: Is vocational training a sustainable alternative to classic schooling?
With hidden school costs soaring, many Ugandan families are turning to vocational training, as this is cheaper, faster and more directly linked to jobs. But can this shift meet Uganda's Labor market needs — and what will it take to make education more affordable? We speak Jane Kengeya Kayondo, founder…
Nigeria's security crisis: Can 'state police' fix it?
Nigeria's government wants a constitutional amendment allowing each state to run its own police force. Supporters say decentralizing police could reduce crime. But critics warn it could lead to political intimidation. Adwoa Tenkoramaa Domena speaks with defense and security analyst Larry Imoukhuede and DW's Ben Shemang in Abuja to unpack…
Why South Africans are stranded in the Gulf
Thousands are being flown out of the Middle East as the Iran war escalates, yet many South Africans in Dubai and other hubs remain stranded and want answers from their government.
Why Zambia's $1B health deal is under fire
A leaked draft of a US–Zambia health deal suggests strict targets and major data‑sharing demands. Critics call the $1B agreement exploitation, while supporters say it brings accountability. What could Zambia lose if talks fail?
30 years after Beijing Declaration: Should women celebrate?
Thirty years after world leaders adopted the Beijing Declaration, women across Africa are increasingly taking on leadership roles in politics, media, business, and culture. But despite these gains, gender inequality remains. Adwoa Tenkoramaa Domena speaks with DW’s Asumpta Lattus and Amaka Okoye about the progress, barriers that remain and what…
Can the army curb South Africa's organized crime wave?
As organized crime surges, South Africa is turning to the army for support. But can soldiers succeed where policing has struggled, or is the country risking escalation?
Are South Africa's menstrual products putting users at risk?
A new study has detected hormone‑disrupting chemicals in menstrual products sold in South Africa. With links to infertility and other health risks, experts are urging tighter regulation.
How the US-Israel war with Iran is reshaping Africa
The US-Israel war with Iran is pushing up fuel costs, slowing shipping, and raising security risks across Africa. We break down how the fallout is hitting trade, energy, and stability across the continent.
Malawi bans dual jobs for health workers
Malawi has banned health workers from holding dual roles in public and private facilities, aiming to curb corruption and boost accountability. Doctors say the move could hurt care and plan to challenge it.
EU lifts sanctions on Zimbabwe — What next?
After more than two decades of travel bans, asset freezes, and diplomatic strain, the EU has removed most of its targeted sanctions on Zimbabwe. The move marks a major reset in relations, but its impact remains uncertain. Eddy Micah Jr. speaks with political analyst Gibson Nyikadzino and DW correspondent Privilege…
Ghana's cocoa price slash sparks outrage
Ghana's cocoa industry is facing a major shake-up after the government slashed the producer price by 28%. It's a heavy blow for many of the country's 800,000 cocoa farmers. But officials say they were forced into the decision after global cocoa prices plunged. Eddy Micah Jr. speaks with Nana Aduna…