COP29 Spotlights Critical Minerals As African Women Count the Cost

At COP29 in Baku, the focus is on critical minerals essential for clean energy, while African female activists, part of the Women's Climate Assembly, demand reparations for environmental damages from mining. They emphasize the need for fair resource extraction that benefits local communities and prevents exploitation. The U.N. panel's report suggests sustainable practices, and Africa's mineral wealth could significantly boost its economy if managed properly. Activists criticize the exclusion of African voices in global discussions and highlight the need for a unified African approach to control mineral trade. The article underscores the importance of equitable energy transitions and the role of women in advocating for change.

African women protest COP29 and organize to seek reparations from mining companies

African female activists, part of the Women's Climate Assembly, are protesting at COP29 in Baku, seeking reparations for damages caused by mining and advocating for a fair energy transition. They emphasize the need for Africa to benefit from its mineral wealth, criticizing the exclusion of African voices in global climate discussions. The U.N. panel report suggests sustainable practices for the mining sector, while activists demand accountability and community empowerment. The Congo Basin's resource exploitation is linked to conflict, highlighting the need for equitable development. UNCTAD aims to enhance community benefits and create value-added industries.

Mpox Preys On People Already Sapped By War in DR Congo, MSF Says

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, displaced populations in camps are critically exposed to mpox due to poor living conditions exacerbated by ongoing conflict. Médecins Sans Frontières highlights the vulnerability of these communities, particularly women, who face increased risks of infection and sexual violence. The spread of mpox, declared a global health emergency by the World Health Organization, is compounded by inadequate isolation facilities and vaccine shortages. Efforts to provide medical aid and vaccines are underway, but challenges remain in addressing the humanitarian crisis and ensuring equitable access to healthcare.

Namibia marks HIV AIDS wins but stigma puts LGBTQ+ people at risk

Namibia has made significant progress in combating HIV/AIDS, nearing global targets and reducing new infections by 54% between 2010 and 2022. Despite these achievements, stigma remains a barrier, particularly for marginalized groups such as LGBTQ+ individuals. Efforts to eliminate mother-to-child transmission and promote male circumcision have been successful, yet social acceptance issues persist. Activists emphasize the need for sensitivity training and consistent healthcare services, especially in rural areas. Funding uncertainties, such as the U.S. Congress's decision to renew PEPFAR for a shorter term, pose challenges to long-term planning. Local organizations and government initiatives continue to focus on improving access and reducing stigma.

Namibia marks HIV/Aids wins but stigma puts LGBTQ+ people at risk

Namibia has made significant progress in reducing HIV infections and expanding treatment, achieving milestones like nearly eliminating mother-to-child transmission. However, stigma and discrimination continue to hinder access to care for marginalized groups, particularly LGBTQ+ individuals. Activists emphasize the need for innovative strategies and consistent funding to maintain progress. The recent decriminalization of gay sex has intensified homophobia, posing additional challenges. The article highlights the importance of community-focused programs and the role of international funding in supporting Namibia's HIV response.

An mpox vaccine is available, so why is it taking so long to get to Africa?

The mpox outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has resulted in over 27,000 suspected cases and 1,100 deaths, primarily affecting children. The virus has spread to 12 neighboring countries, prompting the World Health Organization to declare it a public health emergency. African nations face significant challenges in vaccine distribution due to high costs and competing health priorities like measles and malaria. Despite the crisis, local regulators in the DRC only approved a vaccine in June, with no distribution date set.

Africa: Solar Dry, Soldier Fly, AI - Africans Fight Hunger With Home-Grown Innovations

African innovators are developing climate-resilient agricultural technologies to combat food insecurity exacerbated by climate change. Adaeze Akpagbula's PenKeep device helps Nigerian poultry farmers reduce mortality rates, while Evodius Rutta's solar dryer aids Tanzanian fish processors. Esther Kimani's pest detection device supports Kenyan farmers, and Philafeed's soldier fly farms in South Africa offer sustainable protein alternatives. These innovations address the continent's vulnerability to climate shocks and aim to enhance food production and sustainability.

South African Hotline Gives Locals a Say On Green Energy Projects

A new hotline in South Africa, launched by Cultiver in collaboration with Enel Green Power, allows communities to voice concerns and engage with renewable energy projects. The ENGAGE! hotline, available in multiple languages, aims to ensure local communities benefit from green energy initiatives and address grievances promptly. The initiative has received positive feedback for its inclusivity and potential to prevent social unrest. However, concerns remain about its funding by project owners and the timing of community engagement. The hotline is part of broader efforts to transition South Africa from coal to renewable energy, addressing historical exploitation concerns.

This African Nation Has Named Its First Chief Heat Officer. Here’s What It Means

Eugenia Kargbo has been appointed as Africa’s first chief heat officer in Freetown, Sierra Leone, tasked with protecting the city from the effects of climate change. She joins Jane Gilbert and Eleni Myrivili, who hold similar positions in Miami and Athens, respectively. Kargbo's initiatives include tree planting, waste collection, and awareness campaigns. Her role is supported by the Adrienne Arsht-Rockefeller Foundation Resilience Center, which aims to provide climate resilience solutions to a billion people by 2030.

Abused South African women log on for online lifeline

Sabrina Walter, founder of Women For Change (WFC), addresses the needs of South African women who have survived abuse through online support, highlighting the profound and widespread violence against women in the country. WFC, along with other organizations like Girls Against Oppression (GAO), provides crucial social and legal assistance, filling gaps left by inadequate real-world support systems. Despite the challenges, including police maltreatment and a backlog in forensic DNA analysis, these online platforms have become vital lifelines. Experts emphasize the need for better education and policing to combat gender-based violence, while activists continue their efforts online amidst systemic failures.