PLACE aims to address the inequality in access to mapping data by establishing a non-profit data trust that serves the public interest. Unlike big tech companies like Google and Facebook, which are driven by shareholder interests, PLACE focuses on democratizing data, ensuring ethical use, and engaging with governments and local partners. The organization operates on a membership model, with fees based on the type and size of the organization. PLACE emphasizes transparency, privacy, and data security, and collaborates with various stakeholders to maintain high standards and ethical practices in mapping data.

Improved hurricane track and intensity forecasts are aiding public preparedness, but forecasters at the Governor’s Hurricane Conference highlight concerns about short fuse hurricanes that rapidly intensify near land. State transportation officials plan phased shutdowns of I-95 and U.S. 1 flyover exits from Key Biscayne in July.

The Danakil plain in northern Ethiopia, rich in minerals and home to the Afar people, is one of Earth's hottest and lowest places. It serves as a terrestrial analogue site for Mars research due to its extreme conditions. Europlanet 2020, a consortium of European planetary scientists, conducted field research there, led by biochemist Dr. Felipe Gómez. The region also faces challenges such as poverty and lack of UNESCO protection, despite its scientific and economic potential. Local salt miners and the village chief, Sheikh Hamad bin Hamdan, see benefits from science, mining, and tourism, but disparities remain. The area's history of interest to colonizers and miners continues with the presence of companies like Yara Mining.

Cyclone Idai severely impacted central Mozambique, leading to the resettlement of 93,000 people in government sites with minimal resources. The cyclone and climate change have disproportionately affected the poor, with many losing their livelihoods. Mozambique's government, dominated by FRELIMO, faces criticism for corruption, lack of transparency, and mismanagement, particularly in the hasty selection of resettlement sites and the handling of post-cyclone recovery. The opposition parties RENAMO and MDM are weak, and the recent national elections have been contested. The infrastructure in Beira and beyond was already fragile before the cyclone, and the disaster has exacerbated the situation, leaving many in a state of dependency and seeking opportunities to rebuild their lives.

Anita Pettit, a supposed investigative reporter with a significant following, was revealed to be a fictitious persona created by the Israeli private intelligence company Percepto International. This 'deep avatar' was part of a disinformation campaign to influence elections and smear organizations such as the International Committee of the Red Cross in Burkina Faso. Percepto's CEO, Royi Burstien, admitted to using such avatars for intelligence gathering and manipulation. The exposure of Pettit and similar bots was the result of a six-month undercover investigation by the #StoryKillers consortium, which includes 30 newsrooms and the European non-profit Forbidden Stories. The investigation also uncovered another Israeli company, Team Jorge, which operates thousands of fake social media profiles to spread propaganda. Social media platforms have begun removing these fake profiles after being alerted to their existence.

The conflict in Blue Nile State, Sudan, often overshadowed by the crises in Darfur and South Sudan, continues to cause a severe humanitarian crisis. The Sudan People's Liberation Army-North (SPLA-N) controls part of the region, which is marked by mass displacement, hunger, and a lack of basic services. President Omar al-Bashir's government has been dropping bombs on both civilians and rebels, contributing to the crisis. Peace talks have stalled, with the SPLA-N demanding humanitarian relief before political discussions, while the government insists on a cessation of hostilities first. The local economy, including gold mining and gum arabic production, suffers under the conflict, with resources often benefiting the government in Khartoum. Despite the region's potential, the war has left it destitute, with many choosing to live as refugees in South Sudan rather than remain in Blue Nile.

US-made weapons supplied to the Puntland Security Force (PSF) in Somalia were used in a deadly internal conflict in Bosaso, resulting in significant civilian casualties and displacement. The PSF, originally created and trained by the CIA and Navy SEALS to combat al-Shabaab, split into factions fighting over control of US-supplied assets after the US military withdrawal in January 2021. The conflict, exacerbated by political turmoil in Somalia, led to the deaths of at least 22 people, including children, and the displacement of around 100,000 residents. The US has since announced plans to send troops back to Somalia to train local forces. The situation underscores the complex political ramifications of US counterterrorism efforts and arms transfers in the region.

Sosina Challa founded Ethiopian Girl Skaters, one of the first female-only skateboarding groups in Ethiopia, which now has about 60 members. The group meets at Addis Skate Park, which Challa helped build. Challa's involvement in skateboarding began five years ago and has since been instrumental in constructing additional skate parks. The group focuses on building friendships, confidence, and overcoming challenges rather than competition. The development of the group occurs amidst the ongoing civil war in Ethiopia, which has affected infrastructure development but has not significantly impacted the skateboarding community in the capital.

Fighting has erupted in Mogadishu, Somalia, casting doubt on the government's control over the capital. Opposition forces, including defectors from national security, oppose President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, known as Farmaajo. The conflict follows the missed deadline for national elections and Farmaajo's extension of his presidency by two years. The city is divided, with civilians fleeing and schools closed. Regional presidents negotiated a ceasefire, but casualties are expected to be significant. The African Union and international partners have condemned the term extension and called for immediate elections, while the UN Security Council has shown concern over the crisis.

Somalia's political landscape is increasingly volatile as opposition leaders, including two former presidents, spread across Mogadishu in a strategic move against President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed “Farmaajo”. Farmaajo, recently returned from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, faces significant opposition after the lower house of parliament extended his term by two years, a move seen as a power grab. Protests have erupted, and former allies like Sadiq “John” Omar have turned against Farmaajo, setting up roadblocks and warning of instability. Experts predict a major conflict as the fragile nation grapples with political disputes and the absence of elections.

Somalia faces a severe political crisis as election talks collapse amid deep mistrust and blame among federal member states and the federal government. The impasse has led to heightened tensions, with accusations flying between leaders and fears of violence escalating. The international community, including the UN Security Council, may need to intervene to mediate the situation. The crisis underscores unresolved internal political tensions and a lack of preparation and political will, with significant implications for Somalia's stability and future elections.

Uber's entry into Kenya initially promised economic opportunities for drivers like Harrison Munala, but has led to widespread financial hardship due to fare cuts, increased competition, and high operational costs. Many drivers, burdened with loans and high maintenance costs, are now struggling to make ends meet. The article highlights the broader economic and social impacts of Uber's business model in Kenya, including increased debt and repossessions among drivers. Despite some drivers managing to pay off their loans, dissatisfaction with Uber remains high. The article also touches on the legal and ethical concerns surrounding Uber's contracts and business practices.

The article highlights the systemic anti-black racism perpetuated by the US government both domestically and internationally. It draws parallels between the US military's actions in Africa, particularly in Somalia, and police brutality against black people in the United States. The text criticizes the US Africa Command (Africom) for causing civilian casualties and calls for the demilitarization of US presence in Africa. It emphasizes the need for global black solidarity and a return to black internationalism to address these issues.

In Nairobi, up to 200 people marched through Mathare slum to protest police brutality and a rise in extrajudicial killings since the enforcement of a Covid-19 curfew. Organized by grassroots organizations, the march aimed to show solidarity with global movements against police violence. Protesters, including Rachel Wanjiku and Sobukwe Nonkwe, shared personal stories of loss and fear due to police actions. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority reported at least 15 deaths and 31 injuries by police since the curfew. The march ended with police using teargas to disperse participants.

Somalia faces a severe challenge in containing COVID-19 due to limited testing capacity, poor health infrastructure, and decades of conflict. With only three labs capable of testing and a lack of organized information systems, the actual number of infections is likely much higher than reported. Humanitarian organizations and local authorities are doing their best with limited resources, but the situation is exacerbated by the presence of al-Shabab and the population's resilience to insecurity. International aid, including donations from Alibaba and Turkey, provides some relief, but more urgent attention is needed to prevent a severe crisis.

Somalia faces a severe challenge in containing COVID-19 due to limited testing capacity, poor health infrastructure, and the impact of decades of conflict. With only three labs capable of testing and a lack of organized systems for recording information, the actual number of infections is likely much higher than reported. Humanitarian organizations and health experts express concerns over the country's ability to manage the pandemic, citing a lack of resources and preparation. Efforts to raise awareness and distribute medical supplies are ongoing, but are hindered by logistical challenges and security issues, particularly in areas controlled by al-Shabab. The situation is exacerbated by the population's resilience to insecurity, making it difficult to enforce preventive measures like social distancing.

The article discusses the mental health crisis among South Sudanese refugees in Uganda, highlighting the experiences of individuals such as Mary Johnson, who attempted suicide following rape and abandonment by her husband. Despite the end of the civil war in South Sudan, refugees continue to face trauma, with limited mental health services available. Organizations like Doctors Without Borders and the Green String Network are mentioned as providing support, but the United Nations Refugee Agency faces funding shortages. The article emphasizes the importance of community support for survivors of sexual violence and other violent crimes.

The COVID-19 pandemic's late arrival in Africa has led to chaotic and violent responses from several countries, exacerbating the spread of the virus. South Africa's lockdown prompted mass migration to Mozambique, while security forces in Kenya and Zimbabwe have used excessive force to enforce curfews and lockdowns. Critics argue that these measures, implemented without proper consultation or analysis, have caused unrest and may worsen the situation. Humanitarian agencies face challenges in delivering aid due to closed borders and airspaces, raising concerns about food shortages and increased movement among vulnerable populations.

The coronavirus pandemic has severely impacted the khat trade in Somalia and Kenya, with bans on international flights and market closures disrupting the supply chain. Somali traders and farmers, who rely heavily on khat for their livelihood, are facing significant economic challenges. The Somali government has banned international flights, affecting khat imports from Kenya, while Ethiopian khat continues to enter the market. The situation has sparked debates on the health risks associated with khat and its political implications, with some viewing the trade restrictions as politically motivated. The pandemic has also reignited discussions on the social and economic impact of khat consumption.

The coronavirus pandemic has severely impacted the khat trade in Somalia, affecting traders and farmers who rely on the stimulant for their livelihood. The Somali government's ban on international flights, excluding humanitarian ones, has disrupted the supply chain, particularly affecting imports from Kenya. While there is no scientific evidence linking khat to the spread of the virus, some officials have suggested it could be a vector. The situation has led to increased prices on the black market and sparked debates about the economic and social impact of khat. The pandemic has highlighted the dependency of certain communities on the khat trade and has reignited discussions on its legality and effects on society.

Press freedom in Somalia is under severe threat, with journalists facing violence, intimidation, and harassment from government officials and security forces. Abdulaziz Billow, a TV correspondent, recounts being assaulted by a government official and receiving threats for his reporting. An Amnesty International report highlights the Somali government's efforts to suppress freedom of expression, including physical intimidation, bribes, and social media censorship. Despite a decrease in journalist killings since President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed took office, overall freedom of expression has declined. Journalists like Abdalle Ali Mumin and Mohamed Ibrahim Bulbul have faced threats, detention, and job loss for their work. The government is accused of manipulating media coverage and silencing dissenting voices.

A raid in the Somali village of Shanta Baraako, involving U.S. and Somali Danab forces, resulted in the deaths of two civilians, including a village leader's sister. The operation, targeting an alleged al Shabab member, has raised concerns about civilian casualties and the role of U.S. forces in Somalia. The article highlights the complex dynamics of the Somali conflict, the influence of al Shabab, and the challenges faced by civilians caught in the crossfire. Criticism is directed at the U.S. military and Somali government for their handling of such operations and the lack of transparency and accountability.

Ahmed Salah Hassan, seeking safety, was detained upon entering the U.S. in 2015 and deported to Somalia in 2017, where he later died in a bombing. His journey and subsequent death highlight the dangers faced by deportees returning to volatile homelands. The article discusses the tightening of U.S. immigration policies under the Trump administration, leading to increased detentions and deportations of asylum seekers. It also covers the legal challenges against these policies by organizations like the Southern Poverty Law Center and the ACLU. The story of Hassan's failed asylum bid, prolonged detention, and eventual deportation exemplifies the human cost of these policies.

The article discusses a U.S. airstrike in Somalia that resulted in the death of Ibrahim Hirei and two others, who were allegedly mistaken for terrorists. The U.S. Africa Command (Africom) claimed the strike targeted terrorists, but evidence suggests the victims were civilians. The incident adds to the growing concern over civilian casualties in U.S. operations in Somalia, which have increased under President Donald Trump's administration. Despite Africom's claim of only two civilian deaths since 2017, Amnesty International reports at least 14. The article highlights the lack of on-the-ground investigations and transparency in the U.S. military's process for assessing civilian casualties, raising doubts about the accuracy of their targeting and the designation of individuals as terrorists. The families of the victims and organizations like Amnesty International and Human Rights First criticize the U.S. for its opaque procedures and the difficulties in challenging the terrorist label assigned to civilians killed in such strikes.

Increased U.S. airstrikes in Somalia have led to significant civilian displacement and exacerbated an ongoing humanitarian crisis. Over 450,000 people have been displaced from al-Shabab strongholds, with the U.S. Africa Command conducting numerous airstrikes targeting the militant group. Despite claims of precision, these strikes have resulted in civilian casualties and destruction of property. Humanitarian agencies express concern over the worsening situation, while U.S. military officials maintain that the strikes are necessary to weaken al-Shabab. The article highlights the complex interplay between military actions and their humanitarian impact.

The article investigates the impact of the US air campaign in Somalia, particularly under the Trump administration, which has seen a significant increase in air strikes. The author interviews victims, officials, and experts to uncover unreported strikes and civilian casualties that challenge the official AFRICOM claim of zero civilian harm. The investigation reveals a lack of transparency and accountability in the US military's counterterrorism operations, with questions about the definition of 'terrorist' and the processes for selecting and verifying targets. The cooperation between the US and Somali governments is also scrutinized, with concerns raised about the Somali government's capacity to investigate strikes and the potential involvement of other US agencies, such as the CIA, in conducting air attacks. The article highlights the human cost of the air strikes and the difficulty in obtaining information or justice for those affected.

Veteran Somali journalist Abdalle Mumin reports on the increasing threats to press freedom in Somalia, not from al-Shabab, but from the Somali government led by President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed (Farmajo). Journalists face intimidation through a 'bribe and threat' policy, with government officials and business community members bribing or threatening journalists to control media narratives. The Somali government has a poor track record of protecting journalists, with Somalia ranking first on the Impunity Index for unsolved journalist murders. Despite the hostile environment, journalists like Mumin, Jamal Osman, and Mohamed Moalimuu continue to advocate for press freedom, highlighting the critical role of free journalism in Somalia's democracy.

The U.S. Defense Department is initiating a project to develop land-based supply routes from Camp Lemonnier in Djibouti to other U.S. camps in eastern Africa, starting with a route to Baledogle in Somalia. This ambitious and costly project, estimated at $75 million, faces significant security challenges from al-Shabab and local warlords. The initiative is seen as part of a broader strategy to counter China's influence in Africa, particularly in the strategic Horn of Africa. The project is managed by Pacific Architects and Engineers, with some stakeholders questioning its viability. The U.S. Senate has also allocated $60 billion for infrastructure projects in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East to counter China's Belt and Road Initiative. National Security Advisor John Bolton emphasized that the new U.S. strategy for Africa focuses on countering Chinese and Russian influence.

Al-Shabab, Africa's most effective terrorist group, claimed responsibility for a deadly attack in Nairobi, Kenya, aiming to assert its dominance amid competition from the Islamic State in Somalia and increased U.S. airstrikes. The attack, which killed at least 21 people, was framed as a response to U.S. President Donald Trump's recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital. Experts suggest the attack was also a strategic move to attract attention and funding from fundamentalist donors. Despite the group's efforts, their propaganda is largely rejected by Somalis, who view al-Shabab's actions as a misuse of Islam.

Al-Shabab, an al Qaeda affiliate, claimed responsibility for a deadly attack in Nairobi, Kenya, aiming to assert its presence amid competition from the Islamic State in Somalia (ISS) and increased U.S. airstrikes. The attack, which killed at least 21 people, was framed as a response to U.S. President Donald Trump's recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital. Experts suggest the attack was also a strategic move to maintain relevance and secure funding. Despite the group's efforts, their propaganda appears to be losing traction among Somalis, who increasingly condemn their actions.

The U.S. is set to open a renovated diplomatic facility in Mogadishu, Somalia, marking a significant step in U.S.-Somalia relations since the 1993 Black Hawk Down incident. The new facility, which is not officially an embassy or consulate, will be inaugurated by Ambassador Donald Yamamoto. The U.S. has increased its diplomatic and military presence in Somalia, despite security concerns and the presence of the militant group Al Shabaab. The U.S. has not had an embassy in Somalia since 1991 and has been cautious in its approach to reinstating a permanent diplomatic presence due to past incidents and ongoing security threats.

The International Anti Corruption Conference in Copenhagen discussed the fight against corruption in Africa, with panelists like investigative journalist Daniela Lepiz emphasizing the role of global financial systems in enabling corruption. Despite efforts to build stronger institutions and elect honest leaders, the mechanisms for money laundering and tax evasion often lie outside Africa. The conference, which gathered 1,500 stakeholders from 130 countries, highlighted the need for real-time cooperation between banks and greater oversight. However, experts criticized the lack of actionable commitments to disrupt powerful networks benefiting from corruption. Ghana's auditor general, Daniel Yaw Domelevo, pointed out the major cause of illicit financial flows in Africa, while Lepiz suggested African countries should avoid awarding tenders to companies based in tax havens.

Begoto Miarom, the African Union's senior anti-corruption official, faces significant challenges due to limited resources and pervasive corruption, even within the AU itself. Despite the AU's declared Year of Anti-corruption, many countries fail to submit annual corruption reports, and Miarom's capacity to investigate is constrained. Controversies such as the resignation of board member Daniel Batidam and the inability to address corruption in non-signatory countries like Cameroon and South Sudan highlight the limitations of Miarom's role. The Transparency International conference in Copenhagen, which Miarom attended, discussed the varying perceptions and standards of corruption globally, with Miarom emphasizing that Africa should not be seen as an exception.

Begoto Miarom, the chairperson of the AU advisory board on corruption, faces significant challenges in combating corruption across the continent with limited resources and widespread issues within the African Union itself. Despite attending the Transparency International’s International Anti-Corruption Conference in Copenhagen, Miarom acknowledges deep-rooted corruption within the AU and the difficulty in enforcing the AU Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption. With 40 signatories to the convention, many countries fail to submit annual corruption reports, and Miarom's capacity to investigate is further hampered by a constrained budget. High-profile cases such as the embezzlement by General Paul Malong and controversial legislation in Tanzania highlight the complexities of addressing corruption in Africa. Miarom's pragmatic view acknowledges that Africa is not uniquely corrupt, but the fight against corruption on the continent is far from being won.

The U.N. Security Council has extended the mandate of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) until May 2019 due to the deteriorating security situation. Despite international efforts, the Somali National Army (SNA) remains weak and plagued by corruption, with many soldiers lacking basic equipment and training. Various countries and organizations, including the U.S., EU, and Gulf states, are involved in training and funding the SNA, but their efforts are often uncoordinated and ineffective. Al-Shabab continues to pose a significant threat, infiltrating government and security forces. The article highlights the challenges of building a national army in Somalia and the complex interplay of international and local interests.

The article discusses the dire state of the Somali National Army (SNA) and the extended mandate of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM). It highlights the challenges faced by the SNA, including corruption, lack of resources, and infiltration by Al-Shabab. The international community's efforts to build a national army are criticized as ineffective, with various countries and organizations involved in training and funding. The article underscores the complex geopolitical interests in Somalia and the pervasive corruption that hampers progress. It also touches on the historical context of Somalia's military and the ongoing security issues exacerbated by Al-Shabab's influence.

In Calabria, Italy, the 'Ndrangheta mafia's control has led to economic stagnation and a lack of investment, yet the upcoming general elections are overshadowed by anti-immigrant sentiment. Migrants are blamed for Italy's economic issues, while the mafia's influence and corruption are largely ignored. The 'Ndrangheta, with global operations including drug trafficking, has also profited from the chaos surrounding immigration, including misappropriating funds for refugee centers. The political environment has stifled nuanced discussions on integration and allowed the mafia to maintain its power.

Nairobi has seen a surge in Mexican restaurants due to shared fundamental ingredients between Mexican and Kenyan cuisines and a market opportunity. Fonda and Mercado, two recently opened restaurants, are thriving with their authentic Mexican offerings. Fonda was founded by two couples, and its managing director Yash Krishna emphasized Nairobi's global city status and expatriate population as factors in their success. Mercado's founders, Jigar Patel and his brother, also recognized Nairobi's potential as an international hub. Both teams undertook efforts to learn and bring authentic Mexican cooking to Kenya, with Fonda focusing on Central Mexico cuisine and Mercado hiring chefs from Mexico. The response from both locals and the international community has been overwhelmingly positive.

In the wake of a devastating twin suicide bombing in Mogadishu on October 14, which killed over 300 people, the Somali diaspora in Nairobi's Eastleigh suburb, known as 'Little Mogadishu', is in mourning. Many residents, including 23-year-old Aisha Omar, have family ties to Somalia and were personally affected by the tragedy. Community activist Ahmed Mohamed organized a blood drive, collecting 310 pints of blood for the victims. Despite the attack, young Somalis like Ahmed Abdullahi and Abdi Malik Abdullahi are determined to contribute to their homeland's future. The Kenyan government, along with other nations, has been assisting with medical evacuations for the severely injured due to Somalia's inadequate healthcare facilities.

Saturday’s twin-truck suicide bombings in Mogadishu have killed at least 320 people, highlighting the Somali government's struggle with security reform and corruption. Despite billions in international aid, the government remains ineffective, with rampant corruption and a weak national army. The attack underscores the persistent threat of al-Shabaab and the inadequacy of the African Union's peacekeeping mission. The Somali people, however, have shown resilience, with many volunteering to aid victims. The government faces pressure to overhaul its security apparatus and address systemic issues to gain the trust of its citizens.

In Somalia's Raqayle village, residents feel safer under al Shabaab's control despite the group's brutal practices, compared to the violent displacement they experienced under government forces. Wealthy exiles returning to reclaim land have ignited fresh conflicts, with the Somali government encouraging diaspora returnees but struggling to resolve land disputes effectively. The judicial system is plagued by corruption, and many Somalis prefer al Shabaab's less corrupt dispute resolution methods. The charity WAAMO has been supporting local villagers, but their efforts have been hindered by ongoing conflicts and government militia actions.

Somalia is experiencing its worst cholera outbreak in five years, with over 71,663 cases and 1,098 deaths. The outbreak is exacerbated by nearly three decades of conflict, a non-existent public health system, and unsanitary conditions caused by drought and insecurity. Despite the severity, the response from the humanitarian community and Somali Diaspora has improved the situation compared to past disasters. The WHO and other organizations are working on preparedness and response, but the long-term outlook remains bleak due to ongoing war and drought.

The severe drought in southern Africa has led to widespread famine, particularly in Malawi, where millions are on the brink of starvation. The drought, exacerbated by El Niño weather patterns, has devastated crops and left many without food. International aid organizations like the World Food Program and World Vision are providing critical assistance, but the situation remains dire. The Malawian government's dependency on foreign aid and the suspension of financial assistance due to a corruption scandal have further complicated efforts to address the crisis. Experts suggest that climate adaptation strategies, such as forest conservation and fertilizer subsidies, could mitigate the impact of future droughts.

In Sudan's Blue Nile state, women endure extreme hardships amidst ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises. They face violence, starvation, and lack of basic necessities while persevering through arduous tasks such as mining and carrying water. The SPLA-N continues to fight against President Omar al-Bashir's government, which has led to severe humanitarian neglect. Refugee camps in South Sudan are overcrowded and under-resourced, exacerbating tensions with the local population. Despite the dire conditions, women remain resilient, taking on roles as fighters and commanders in the SPLA-N. Efforts for peace have repeatedly failed, leaving the region in a state of perpetual conflict.

In Juba, South Sudan, a unique massage parlour named Seeing Hands offers Japanese-style massages performed by blind masseurs, providing relief from the stresses of living in a conflict-ridden city. The initiative, inspired by similar programs in Cambodia and Thailand, was established by Father John Barth and has developed a loyal clientele despite numerous challenges. The masseurs, trained through a rigorous program, face difficulties such as navigating the city and dealing with power outages, but remain committed to their work. The story highlights the resilience and determination of the blind community in South Sudan.

In South Sudan, sexual violence has become rampant amid the ongoing civil war, with both government and opposition forces implicated. The conflict, initially political, has devolved into chaos with shifting allegiances and local grievances. The SPLA, the South Sudanese army, is identified as a primary perpetrator of sexual violence, with impunity for such crimes being widespread. International peacekeepers have been largely ineffective in curbing the violence. Despite a peace deal in August, the conflict continues, exacerbating lawlessness and human rights abuses across the country.

South Sudan faces the threat of renewed civil war as President Salva Kiir's plan to subdivide the country into 28 states, favoring his Dinka tribe, undermines a fragile peace agreement with opposition leader Riek Machar. The move has sparked outrage among opposition forces and ethnic groups like the Shilluk, who see it as a power grab that jeopardizes their land and autonomy. The Agwelek army, a Shilluk force, has switched sides to oppose the government, raising the risk of further violence, particularly in the oil-rich Upper Nile state. The situation remains volatile, with various ethnic and regional militias ready to fight if the plan is not rescinded.

Tanzanians are voting in a general election with the opposition Chadema party, led by former Prime Minister Edward Lowassa, posing a significant challenge to the long-ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party. Key issues for voters include poverty, health services, education, and employment. Various citizens express their views on the need for change, better leadership, and youth employment. The election is marked by concerns over the lack of substantive content in political discussions, with a focus on personalities rather than policies.

Tanzania is poised for its most competitive election since transitioning to multiparty democracy in 1992, with opposition leader Edward Lowassa challenging the long-ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party. Lowassa, a former prime minister with a history of corruption scandals, has garnered significant support among working-class and young voters. Both CCM and Lowassa's CHADEMA party have raised concerns about electoral fraud and potential post-election violence. The election, scheduled for October 25, comes amid regional unrest and high expectations for democratic progress. Key issues include economic performance, employment, and promises of free education and better business environments.

The Tanzanian government faces criticism from activists, journalists, and civil society for new laws that restrict media and free speech. The laws, including a statistics law and a cybercrime law, are seen as tools to control information ahead of upcoming elections. Critics argue that these laws will criminalize unapproved data and unsolicited electronic information, leading to self-censorship. The National Bureau of Statistics defends the laws as necessary for improving data standards. The Environmental Investigation Agency and other organizations accuse the government of evading transparency, particularly regarding the decline in the elephant population due to poaching.

Burundi is experiencing severe political unrest as President Pierre Nkurunziza seeks a controversial third term, defying the constitution and peace deal that ended a 12-year civil war. Protests have erupted, leading to deadly clashes with police and the involvement of the Imbonerakure militia. The constitutional court's decision to allow Nkurunziza's candidacy has intensified demonstrations, causing a refugee crisis with thousands fleeing to Rwanda. The situation threatens regional stability, with potential implications for neighboring countries facing their own elections. International organizations and local analysts express concern over the escalating violence and undemocratic actions.

The article recounts the author's experiences at SoapBox Inc.'s Feminist Camp, highlighting the importance of reproductive rights, gender equality, and the challenges faced by women in America. It discusses various feminist issues, including abortion rights, legal struggles of pregnant women, and the normalization of sex work. The camp provided a platform for budding activists to engage with prominent feminist figures and organizations, fostering a sense of solidarity and empowerment among participants.

Ubongo, a Tanzanian social enterprise, is creating locally relevant educational content for children across multiple platforms, including TV, radio, mobile, and broadband, to address the shortcomings of the Tanzanian education system and the limitations of MOOCs. By focusing on interactive storytelling and local context, Ubongo's approach aims to improve understanding over memorization, especially in a country where English is introduced as the primary language only in secondary school. Their upcoming animated TV show, Bunga Bongo, is set to air on Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation and is expected to reach a wide audience, including through community viewing and intentional piracy to maximize distribution. Ubongo's strategy contrasts with Western MOOCs, which often lack local relevance and are inaccessible due to low internet penetration and bandwidth issues in Tanzania.

Sudan's internet shutdown amid protests against President Omar al Bashir's regime has led tech-savvy activists in Khartoum to develop the Abena crowd map, powered by cell networks, to record key data about the protests. Despite communication barriers, the map, created by Mohammed Hashim Saleh, Abeer Khairy, and Ahmed Hassan, has been instrumental in tracking events on the ground. The protests, driven by economic crisis and government corruption, have seen peaceful demonstrators met with violent repression by security forces. Human rights organizations like Amnesty International have condemned the government's actions, while activists continue to seek international support to protect protesters.