Gail Motloung, a South African alumna of the U.S.-sponsored Mandela Washington Fellowship and founder of the 'Girl with a Purpose Foundation,' is among over 700 young African leaders attending a three-day networking summit in Washington. The event focuses on strengthening ties between African youth and reputable U.S. firms. Motloung shared how the fellowship inspired her to launch her organization, which empowers women and addresses gender-based violence in South Africa.

Afrobeats has achieved mainstream success, transitioning from rejection by major U.S. outlets to global popularity. VOA's Mike Hove interviewed Osita 'Duke' Ugeh of Duke Concepts, who has promoted tours for African artists like Burna Boy, Davido, Wizkid, and Adekunle Gold. Ugeh discussed the challenges of promoting African music and highlighted Burna Boy's sold-out performance at Madison Square Garden.

The Coalition for Climate Entrepreneurship hub in Nairobi, supported by the US State Department and international partners, aims to foster climate solutions by African entrepreneurs. The Nairobi hub is the second opened in Africa this year, with previous launches in Ghana and Vietnam. Partnerships with local institutions and companies like Halcyon are crucial to the initiative's success. The program highlights the importance of idea exchange and local empowerment in addressing climate challenges and is set to support entrepreneurs for the next 24 months, with plans to open another hub in North Africa.

Abdullahi Idris Turaki, a young candidate running for the house of representative seat in Lokoja/Kogi Federal Constituency under the New Nigeria People’s Party, discusses his motivations and strategies for entering politics. Inspired by the Not Too Young to Run bill, Turaki aims to address youth and women's issues through education, economic growth, and leadership development. He emphasizes the importance of youth supporting each other across political affiliations and aims to avoid traditional political challenges such as 'Godfatherism' and money politics.

South Africa's national rugby team, the Springboks, will begin an appreciation tour in Gauteng following their World Cup victory. World Rugby's latest rankings place the Springboks first, with Ireland second and New Zealand third. Former players Mandla Mhinga and Zukile Ncube attribute South Africa's success to significant investment in rugby and foresee further achievements, including a potential three-peat at the 2027 World Cup in Australia. Rugby Africa's president, Herbert Mensah, emphasizes the need for more investment to elevate the sport in Africa, which has seen growing interest in countries like Morocco, Nigeria, Kenya, and Zimbabwe.

The South African Springboks defeated England to secure a place in the 2023 World Cup Finals. Mike Hove from VOA Africa discussed the victory and its implications with Vaylen Kirtley, a sports reporter at Newzroom Afrika.

Herbert Mensah, president of Rugby Africa, commends South Africa's Springboks for their historic fourth Rugby World Cup win in France. He urges African governments to invest in rugby to enhance representation in future tournaments, including the 2027 World Cup in Australia.

FIFA's latest rankings show South Africa has climbed to 58th in the world and 10th in Africa, following their bronze win at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast. South African football federation president Danny Jordan and team captain Ronwen Williams celebrated the team's performance, with Williams earning the golden glove. Coach Hugo Broos, credited with transforming the team, emphasized the importance of international recognition. Former player Mark Fish highlighted the need for consistency. South Africa will face Nigeria in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying match in June.

Amanda Azubuike, a Brigadier General in the US Army Cadet Command, shares her journey from a young immigrant to a high-ranking military officer. Raised in a strict, education-focused household, she joined the military to fund her education and stayed for the opportunities and sense of pride it provided. Her story highlights the importance of representation and diversity in leadership roles, inspiring many, especially women and minorities. Her achievements are celebrated by her family, colleagues, and cadets, emphasizing her hard work, leadership, and the positive impact of her role in the military.

Nigerian youth are heavily invested in the 2023 elections, driven by the momentum from the #EndSars movement against police brutality. Ojooluwa Ibiloye, founder of RuralPro Nigeria, emphasizes the importance of youth participation and the impact of the 'Not Too Young to Run' bill signed by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2018. Despite challenges in political representation, the youth aim to leverage their numbers and the success of independent candidates to influence the upcoming elections.

Young people in Zimbabwe urge President Emmerson Mnangagwa and incoming lawmakers to focus on policies and laws that promote youth empowerment in politics and other sectors. This call to action highlights the desire for greater youth involvement and influence in the southern African nation's political landscape.

Gail Motloung, a South African alumni of the U.S. sponsored Mandela Washington Fellowship and founder of 'Girl with a Purpose Foundation,' is attending a three-day networking summit in Washington with over 700 young African leaders. The summit aims to strengthen ties between African youth and reputable U.S. firms. Motloung credits the fellowship for inspiring her to launch her organization, which empowers women and addresses gender-based violence in South Africa.

Over six million Zimbabweans, the majority of whom are under the age of 34, are prepared to vote in the nation's general elections on August 23. VOA Africa and Heart and Soul Broadcasting Service are hosting a special program to discuss the impact of youth participation in the 2023 Zimbabwe elections.

The 'NA WE WE Sports Jamboree' in Yaoundé, Cameroon, organized by a youth group in collaboration with international embassies, UN organizations, and local agencies, aims to support Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) through sports. The initiative seeks to build social cohesion, promote peace, and provide essential services like medical support. The ongoing conflict in Cameroon's North-West and South-West regions has displaced many, with the jamboree addressing mental health and psychosocial issues. Key figures like Achaleke Christian Leke, Mr. Leo, Lorraine Anderson, and Phillip Van Damme emphasize the importance of such initiatives in fostering unity and resilience among affected communities.

The East African music group Sauti Sol concluded their six-city U.S. tour in Washington D.C., announcing an indefinite hiatus that left fans seeking clarification about the group's future. Despite the break, the band members emphasized that this hiatus does not mark the end of Sauti Sol. The group, known for their 18-year-long career and numerous awards, including a Grammy certificate, plans to continue with other projects through their record label, Sol Generation Music. The announcement of the hiatus significantly boosted ticket sales for their tour, which will conclude in Vancouver, Canada, on September 3.

LaShawn Kenley, founder of the U.S.-based fashion company Sun Gods, is collaborating with African artisans to create products that support mutual income generation and promote African culture. Kenley discussed the work of Sun Gods and her collaborations during a visit to Voice of America, where she was interviewed by Mike Hove.

The African Union's AfCFTA agreement, signed by 54 African nations, aims to enhance intra-continental trade and economic growth. The agreement is projected to create a $3.4 trillion free trade bloc and lift 30 million people out of extreme poverty by 2035. However, experts highlight challenges such as corruption and poor infrastructure that need to be addressed for the agreement to succeed. Advocates like Achaleke Christian Leke and Tanatsiwa Dambuza stress the importance of political will and collaboration among African leaders. The IMF supports the agreement, citing its potential to boost Africa's economic output and tackle climate change. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to prepare for the changes the AfCFTA will bring to the market.

U.S. officials, including Ramin Toloui from the Department of State, engaged with African innovators and bankers at the Africa Fintech Summit to discuss boosting the continent's financial technology sector through the Digital Transformation in Africa Initiative. This initiative aims to increase online transactions and connectivity, thereby unleashing economic potential and addressing challenges such as food insecurity and economic development. Representatives from African fintech companies like OmniBiz Africa and NALA highlighted the growth of the sector and its foundational role in improving economies, healthcare, and education. The summit featured over 46 delegates, including U.S. officials and banking representatives.

Ghanaian artist Edem has embarked on a U.S. tour with performances in Washington D.C. and has networked with entertainers such as Swizz Beats and Jim Jones. During his visit to VOA, he discussed his U.S. trip, Grammy appearance, potential collaborations with American artists, and his involvement in a 'social experiment' where he announced a run for public office.

Ayomide Benjamin Feyijimi, a 25-year-old Labor Party candidate, discusses his campaign for a House of Assembly seat in Oyo State, Nigeria. He outlines his priorities, including food security, education, and local security forces. Feyijimi emphasizes the importance of youth participation in politics and voter awareness, urging young people not to sell their votes and to work together for positive change.

Racheal Inegbedion, a disability rights advocate, discussed the Nigerian youth's desire for change in the upcoming elections, emphasizing improved infrastructure and job creation. She highlighted the progress made in including the disabled community in the election process, such as their participation as observers in state governor races. However, Inegbedion pointed out that more needs to be done to implement the electoral act and the Africa disability protocol to ensure full political participation of persons with disabilities. She suggested that INEC conduct a survey to identify and improve accessibility at polling stations.

As Nigeria's February 25 elections approach, Nigerian youth are urging the Independent National Electoral Commission to facilitate easier voting access for all citizens, particularly those with disabilities. Disability rights advocate Rachel Inegbedion emphasizes the need for inclusive electoral processes.

Vincent Aboubakar played a pivotal role in preventing Cameroon's World Cup exit by contributing to a draw against Serbia. Coming off the bench, Aboubakar scored and shifted the momentum for Cameroon, who were trailing 2-1. Despite some first-half mistakes, Cameroon managed to secure a 3-3 draw, with goals from Jean-Charles Castelletto, Aboubakar, and Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting. Serbia's goals came from Strahinja Pavlović, Sergej Milinković-Savić, and Aleksandar Mitrović. Cameroon's chances of advancing from Group G are slim, as they must defeat Brazil in their final Group H match.

Ghana's Black Stars revived their chances of advancing to the round of 16 at the 2022 FIFA World Cup with a 3-2 victory over South Korea. Mohammed Kudus was the standout player, scoring twice. Despite South Korea's dominance in possession and attempts, Ghana secured the win with contributions from Mohammed Salisu and Jordan Ayew. Head coach Otto Addo praised the team's performance but acknowledged their luck. The Black Stars are now second in Group H, with their fate dependent on the upcoming match against Uruguay.

Senegal's Lions of Teranga secured their first three points at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, eliminating host nation Qatar from advancing. Coach Aliou Cisse emphasized the need for a strategic approach to their final group match against Ecuador to advance to the round of 16. Key players like Boulaye Dia, Famara Diedhiou, and Bamba Dieng contributed to Senegal's victory, while Qatar's Tarek Salman expressed disappointment in his team's performance. The outcome of the upcoming matches will determine which teams from Group A advance to the next stage.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored a penalty in Portugal's World Cup match against Ghana, becoming the first player to score in five World Cup editions. Ghana's coach Otto Addo criticized the penalty decision. André Ayew equalized for Ghana, but Portugal won 3-2 with goals from João Félix and Rafael Leão. Ghana's Osman Bukari also scored, and the team is set to play South Korea and Uruguay next.

Tanzanian artist Alikiba, known as 'King Kiba,' embarks on a tour across Europe and the US, with discussions on potential collaborations with US artists and his recent album 'Only One King'.

Yemaachi Biotech, a Ghanaian health startup, is pioneering cancer research by creating a genomic archive of cancers in black people globally, addressing the lack of African representation in genomic studies. The startup, led by CEO Yaw Bediako and supported by pathologist Kafui Akakpo, aims to shift Africa's healthcare focus from infectious diseases to cancer. Yemaachi has developed Ghana's first home testing kit for Human Papillomavirus and secured over $4 million in funding, including from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, to develop Africa's first cancer cure.

Tafara Makaza, a Zimbabwean entrepreneur based in Massachusetts, USA, has launched ZimTaxi, a carpooling mobile application aimed at improving Zimbabwe's public transport system. ZimTaxi, which operates similarly to Uber and Lyft, offers affordable and reliable taxi services with a fixed price confirmed with the company and driver. It features a driver rating system and uses less data than other apps, providing an alternative for users with limited data access. Makaza hopes ZimTaxi will attract international investment to Zimbabwe and plans to leverage his background in Physics and Computer Science to further develop the app. ZimTaxi is available for download on Google Play and has a Twitter page for updates.

Trymore 'Tiara' Gendi, a Zimbabwean who identifies as female, faced severe societal backlash after being outed as gay. Despite initial family rejection and neighborhood violence, she found acceptance and safety through local LGBT activists. Zimbabwe's laws criminalize homosexual acts rather than homosexuality itself, creating a precarious situation for the LGBT community. President Robert Mugabe has publicly denounced gay rights, contributing to a hostile environment. However, activists like Mojalifa Mokwele see hope in the younger generation's more accepting attitudes. Gendi now resides in the U.S., working with the Transgender Research Education, Advocacy and Training (TREAT) and was a Mandela Washington Fellow. The LGBT community in Zimbabwe remains resilient, finding solace in solidarity despite ongoing challenges.