Female gig workers globally are developing their own apps to counteract sexist algorithms in existing job platforms that penalize women for balancing unpaid care work with gig work. These new platforms, such as South Africa's We Care, Kenya's An Nisa, and Brazil's Señoritas Courier, aim to provide fair pay, better work conditions, and algorithmic transparency. They are designed to ensure equal opportunity and account for the additional unpaid care responsibilities that women often shoulder. ActionAid's report highlights the discrimination faced by women in gig work and supports the development of these female-led initiatives.

Africa's first climate summit in Nairobi emphasized the continent's potential as a clean energy superpower, with rich natural resources and critical minerals for renewable energy. However, the lack of finance to realize this potential was a major concern. Kenyan President William Ruto and UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres highlighted the economic opportunities and the possibility of Africa becoming a renewable energy superpower. The International Energy Agency and the African Development Bank Group reported that energy investment in Africa needs to more than double by 2030, with a focus on clean energy. The summit saw pledges to support the Africa Carbon Markets Initiative and a $4.5 billion commitment from the UAE for clean energy initiatives in Africa. The 'Nairobi Declaration' adopted by African leaders outlined a common position ahead of COP28, emphasizing renewable energy potential. Despite these efforts, activists point out that funding for fossil fuel extraction continues, and African nations are often locked into long-term loans for such projects, hindering the transition to renewable energy.

Africa's first-ever climate summit in Nairobi showcased the continent as a potential clean energy superpower, emphasizing its rich natural resources and the need for increased finance to realize a green transition. The International Energy Agency and the African Development Bank Group reported that Africa's energy investment must more than double by 2030, with a focus on clean energy. The United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres referred to renewable energy as 'the African miracle.' The summit resulted in the 'Nairobi Declaration' by African leaders, outlining a common position for the upcoming COP28 talks. However, challenges such as high capital costs, political instability, and continued fossil fuel finance were identified as barriers to Africa's clean energy development.

Data collectors in informal settlements near Johannesburg, such as Mfanzile Msibi and his team, have been mapping communities to ensure tens of thousands of residents are accounted for in government records. The Informal Settlement Network and Community Organisation Resource Centre have found discrepancies in government data and are using collected information to lobby for public services. In Ekurhuleni, the number of recognized settlements has been updated to 135. Similar efforts are underway in Rio de Janeiro's favelas, where organizations like Labjaca and Catalytic Communities are advocating for services and collecting data on Covid-19. Data collectors also promote reblocking to improve access for emergency vehicles. The work of these organizations aims to improve living conditions and formalize informal settlements, despite challenges such as distrust of authorities and lack of political will.

Data collectors in informal settlements near Johannesburg, led by Mfanzile Msibi, have been mapping communities to ensure tens of thousands of residents are accounted for in government records. The Informal Settlement Network and Community Organisation Resource Centre have found discrepancies in government data and are using collected information to lobby for public services. They also promote reblocking to improve access for emergency vehicles. Similar efforts are seen in Rio de Janeiro's favelas, where organizations like Labjaca and Catalytic Communities gather data to advocate for resources. Despite challenges such as mutual distrust of authorities and lack of political will, data collectors continue to push for the formalization of settlements and improvement of living conditions.

The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) in the US replaced its helpline with a chatbot named Tessa, which was later discontinued for giving harmful advice. The incident raised concerns about the effectiveness and ethics of AI in mental health support. Despite these concerns, AI mental health chatbots are growing in popularity due to stretched health resources. Privacy concerns have been raised by organizations like the Mozilla Foundation. In South Africa, the mental health app Panda is launching an AI-generated 'digital companion' to augment traditional therapy. Research suggests that AI can sometimes provide more empathetic responses than humans, but experts emphasize that technology should complement, not replace, human interaction.

South African companies are innovating to address the issue of solar power inequality by funding solar panels for charities and the poor amidst severe daily power cuts caused by an ailing electricity grid. Private firms are assisting citizens and charities to access solar power, with plans to sell excess energy back to the government. The Cape Town Society for the Blind is one such beneficiary, set to receive solar panels and battery storage through support from Sun Exchange and funding from Hannover Re. Innovations include portable solar systems and accessible financing options, with companies like Balwin Foundation and WiSolar providing solar solutions to informal settlements and affordable housing developments. President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced plans to fast-track renewable energy projects to address a 6,000 MW deficit and create jobs in the solar industry. However, there are concerns that privatisation of electricity production could lead to higher costs and impact municipal subsidies for the poor.

Domestic workers are a crucial part of South Africa's labor force, making up 6.8% of the employed population. Despite their importance, their wages are often a topic of discomfort. The Department of Labour's minimum wage for domestic workers varies by region and hours worked, with metropolitan areas generally having higher rates. The South African Domestic Service and Allied Workers Union advocates for a higher minimum wage of R2,500 per month. Personal stories of domestic workers highlight the struggles of managing living expenses, including transport and education for their children. Code for South Africa has developed a Living Wage calculator to facilitate discussions between domestic workers and employers about fair wages. The article also touches on the historical context of domestic work in South Africa and the challenges faced by foreign domestic workers.

The article reflects on the 20th anniversary of the Rwandan genocide, where an estimated 800,000 people were killed. The author shares personal experiences from a recent visit to Rwanda, noting the country's economic growth and social initiatives like 'Umuganda'. However, the article also highlights the stark contrasts within the nation, such as the juxtaposition of economic development with political repression, and the peaceful streets with the government's alleged violent actions abroad. The author discusses the complex legacy of President Paul Kagame and the mixed feelings of Rwandans towards their country's progress and the potential dangers ahead. The article suggests that an honest and open dialogue about Rwanda's successes and failures is necessary to honor the victims of the genocide and to prevent future atrocities.