Colombian exports fell by 5% in June compared to the same month in 2023, according to the Departamento Administrativo. The decline highlights ongoing economic challenges in the country.

Malawi is experiencing its worst cholera outbreak in two decades, with over thirty thousand infected and more than a thousand deaths since March 2022. Despite improvements in water and sanitation, the healthcare system struggles with mismanagement and a lack of resources. The outbreak risks spilling over into neighboring countries like Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and South Africa, all of which have their own health challenges. Public health expert Dr. Munyaradzi Samusodza advises against scapegoating Malawians for the spread but urges vigilance. To prevent further outbreaks, Malawi should focus on prevention through education, digital surveillance, vaccine distribution, and water quality inspections. Regional cooperation and robust border surveillance are also recommended to manage the spread of cholera.

Refugees in Canada face a complex dilemma as their remittances to home countries like Zimbabwe and Eritrea inadvertently support the autocratic regimes they fled from. While these funds are crucial for the survival of their families, they also enrich and empower oppressive governments through taxation. This catch-22 situation highlights the unintended consequences of international migration and the challenges in weakening dictatorships through emigration.

South Africa's iconic beaches are at risk of disappearing due to water contamination, sand extraction, and infrastructure development. Durban's beaches have been severely affected by sewage spills, leading to high levels of E. Coli and public health risks. The erosion of beaches like Sixteen Mile is exacerbated by sand extraction for construction, threatening both the tourism economy and local ecosystems. Experts and activists warn of dire consequences if these issues are not addressed, citing corruption, mismanagement, and inadequate public investment as key factors.

South Africa's tourism sector is underperforming due to high crime rates and governance failures, which may hinder the country's goal of attracting 21 million tourists annually by 2023. Cape Town remains a focal point, but safety concerns could deter tourists from exploring beyond the Western Cape.

Political murders of councillors in South Africa are at a crisis level, particularly in KwaZulu Natal, the most politically volatile province. The escalation of these crimes is alarming as the 2024 elections approach. Various sources, including opposition lawmaker Vuyo Zungula and criminology professor Jean Steyn, highlight the severity of the situation, with President Cyril Ramaphosa stating that 300 councillors have been killed in recent years. The South Africa Local Government Association records 89 councillor deaths from 2000 to 2018. The killings are driven by battles for self-enrichment and control over municipal resources. A report by the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime reveals a sliding scale of payment for hitmen. The Moerane Commission's recommendations on political killings have been ignored, and there is a lack of will from the police to pursue the influential political figures behind these murders. The National Political Killings Task Team has not provided comments on the issue despite inquiries.

Zimbabwe is facing severe electricity shortages due to drought, affecting the country's hydropower output from Lake Kariba. This crisis is particularly detrimental to rural schools, where about 55 percent of the country's students are educated. The lack of electricity leads to disrupted classes, unused computer equipment, and idle science laboratories. The situation is also impacting teacher recruitment in rural areas and the health and job prospects of young people. Despite efforts to electrify rural schools, the power cuts are hindering progress. Alternatives like solar energy are suggested, but costs remain a concern. The article highlights the broader implications of the energy crisis on education and future employment in Zimbabwe.

Ethiopia's Orthodox Christian Church is embroiled in a significant conflict with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's government, accusing it of interference. The dispute began when three priests in the Oromo region declared independence from the main church, leading to violent clashes and mass protests. The government’s response included social media restrictions, exacerbating tensions. This conflict threatens Ethiopia's fragile peace following a devastating civil war, with concerns over the safety of rare Christian manuscripts. Experts warn that peace in the church is crucial for national stability.

Mamphela Ramphele criticizes South African President Cyril Ramaphosa for failing to deliver on his promises to clean up corruption, describing him as a prisoner of corrupt ANC elements. She highlights poor cabinet choices and the retention of ministers implicated in corruption. Ramphele contrasts South Africa's governance unfavorably with China's meritocratic system and criticizes the political legacy of apartheid. She also reflects on her own experiences and the political landscape, expressing disillusionment with both the ANC and DA.

The South Africa-led peace mission to mediate the Russia-Ukraine war has failed to make progress, with both warring parties showing no intention to back down. South Africa's neutrality is questioned due to its close ties with Russia, including abstaining from a UN vote condemning the war and hosting Russian naval exercises. The mission, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa and other African leaders, faced logistical issues in Poland and was criticized for lacking a substantive plan. The article highlights the economic motives behind the mission, particularly concerning grain shipments, and the broader implications for food security in Africa.

South Africa's push for solar and renewable energy is transforming rural churches that were previously left out of electrification efforts. Pastors and community members express joy and relief as affordable solar gear from China lights up their churches, providing multiple benefits such as reduced night burglaries and the ability to recharge gadgets. However, there are concerns about the environmental impact of unrecycled solar equipment. The article highlights the historical context of apartheid and the ongoing green transition in South Africa.

The future of Transnet remains uncertain following the resignation of its key leaders, including CEO Portia Derby, CFO Nonkululeko Dlamini, and Transnet Freight Rail CEO Siza Mzimela. Derby faced severe criticism from South African business leaders for allegedly lowering the public rail service's value and harming the economy. Privatization of Transnet is now being considered as a potential solution amidst ongoing difficulties.

In South Africa, many low-income individuals, including Anele Mudau, are forced to stay up late to take advantage of cheaper internet rates offered by mobile providers like Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, and Telkom Mobile. This practice has significant health and safety implications, including increased risk of home burglaries and adverse health effects from sleep deprivation. Despite some efforts by the government and organizations to address the high cost of internet access, economic inequality remains a significant barrier. The article also discusses the broader impact of rolling blackouts and the potential for future government initiatives to provide free or more affordable internet access.

South Africa's food security is under severe threat due to multiple crises, including electricity blackouts caused by Eskom, economic challenges, and political threats of land expropriation. The agricultural sector, once a proud legacy, is struggling with high costs and reduced production, leading to increased food prices and potential shortages. Key stakeholders express concerns about the future, with some remaining cautiously optimistic. The situation is exacerbated by high inflation, a collapsing currency, and social unrest, impacting both food producers and consumers.

South Africa aims to become a leading cannabis tourism destination, potentially replacing Amsterdam, which is tightening its cannabis laws. Despite legalization in 2018, the South African government’s slow licensing process and police actions against cannabis users hinder industry growth. Industry insiders believe that with better government support, South Africa could attract millions of cannabis tourists annually. National Geographic highlights South Africa and Thailand as top contenders for cannabis tourism, but domestic obstacles may prevent South Africa from realizing this potential.

Pastors in Harare, Zimbabwe, are deeply concerned about a fast-spreading cholera outbreak that threatens to further diminish church attendance and finances. The outbreak, exacerbated by a ruined economy and poor water infrastructure, has already claimed over 100 lives. Authorities have banned gatherings in the capital, raising fears that further restrictions could force many indigenous churches to close. The situation is particularly dire for less-resourced churches, while wealthier Western churches are better equipped to handle the crisis. The article highlights the broader issue of political neglect and corruption affecting basic services in Zimbabwe.

Sydney Mufamadi, South Africa's national security advisor, is a key figure in the government, bridging spy craft and high-level diplomacy. He is trusted by President Cyril Ramaphosa and has Ukraine's trust despite South Africa's perceived pro-Russia stance. Mufamadi's career includes serving under Nelson Mandela and Thabo Mbeki, and he has been involved in anti-apartheid movements. Recently, he led a delegation to Washington to discuss South Africa's position on Russia and the AGOA trade pact. The South African State Security Agency, which he chairs, is undergoing reforms to separate domestic and foreign espionage. However, the agency faces accusations of illegal surveillance and corruption. Mufamadi's ability to reform the agency is questioned by experts.

Ace Magashule, former ANC strongman, has launched a new political party named the African Congress for Transformation, aiming to challenge the ANC and encroach on the Economic Freedom Fighters' (EFF) territory. Despite his claims of significant support, particularly in the Free State province, observers are skeptical of his ability to make a substantial impact. Magashule, who faces corruption charges, has been compared to Julius Malema of the EFF but is seen as lacking the organization and resources to compete effectively. The ANC has dismissed his new party as an attempt to destabilize the ruling party.

The article by Ray Mwareya focuses on the plight of young girls in Mozambique who are forced into prostitution due to extreme poverty exacerbated by natural disasters like drought and floods. The story centers on Bemusa, an 18-year-old girl coerced into sex work by her aunt after being orphaned. The practice of initiating girls into prostitution through 'sexual initiations' is common, with guardians offering them to men for basic necessities. The article also touches on the role of UNICEF in addressing the issue, the increase in sexually transmitted infections among young sex workers, and the complicity of some police officers in sex trafficking. Despite legal actions against pimping, the problem persists, and girls like Bemusa consider moving to places like South Africa in search of better pay.

The BRICS summit in Johannesburg is highlighted by the arrival of Chinese President Xi Jinping, overshadowing the absence of Russian President Vladimir Putin. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa met with Xi, who brought significant trade deals, including a $2.2bn agreement signed earlier in the month. Disputes, such as the cancelled deal with China's CRRC Corporation, which led to a spare parts supply issue for South Africa's Transnet, are hoped to be resolved with Xi's visit. The summit also sees a push for a BRICS common currency and attendance from leaders of emerging economies, with concerns over China's economic slowdown and its impact on commodity-dependent countries like South Africa.

More than 6,000 worshippers gathered at Apostle Joshua Mohlala’s Shekinah Healing Ministries in Cape Town for a matchmaking event aimed at finding partners. The church's public matchmaking ceremonies, which have resulted in 150 marriages without reported divorces or violence, are gaining popularity. Critics argue these events exploit women desperate for marriage and may hide potential abusers. The African Reformed Zion Church also conducts similar ceremonies, emphasizing traditional African customs over Western marriage norms. South Africa faces high rates of gender-based violence, with critics questioning the safety and ethics of these matchmaking practices.

In rural Mozambique, widows from polygamous marriages, like Marcia Madeya, are being dispossessed and abused by their in-laws after their husbands' deaths. Cultural traditions in the Chikwidzire district dictate that women without sons must relinquish their land to relatives, often leading to accusations of witchcraft and eviction. Despite legal protections for women's property rights, local unelected chiefs and traditional herbalists often override these laws. The Women Hands Together shelter, founded by Java Mtisi, provides aid to such widows. High HIV rates exacerbate the issue, as widows lose access to health services when forced onto the streets. Education is seen as a key solution to empower girls and prevent future disempowerment in marriages.

BRICS foreign ministers met in Cape Town, issuing ambitious goals including a new global currency and a call for a multipolar world. However, the potential attendance of Russian President Vladimir Putin at the BRICS summit in August overshadowed the meeting, due to his ICC arrest warrant for alleged war crimes in Ukraine. South Africa faces a dilemma, with suggestions of relocating the summit or hosting it virtually to avoid the issue of arresting Putin. The opposition DA party has filed a court application to compel the government to arrest Putin if he attends, which could conflict with South African constitutional obligations.

South African authorities, including the Hawks and National Prosecuting Authority, are investigating allegations that the 'Gold Mafia' bribed major bank employees to launder money out of the country. The investigation follows an Al Jazeera documentary implicating Absa, Standard Bank, and Sasfin in the scheme. Key figures Mohamed Khan and Simon Rudland deny involvement. South Africa's capacity to prosecute such crimes is questioned due to past political interference and lack of resources. The country was grey listed by the Financial Action Taskforce in February 2023 for insufficient action against illicit financial transactions. Banks have responded to the allegations, with Absa and Sasfin taking internal actions and Standard Bank asserting a zero-tolerance policy.

TymeBank, a South African digital banking platform, has raised $77.8m in pre-Series C funding, led by Norrsken22 and Blue Earth Capital. Despite a global downturn in fintech funding and a challenging South African market, TymeBank has reached seven million customers and continues to grow, targeting niche markets and the SME sector. The bank's CEO, Coenraad ‘Coen’ Jonker, emphasizes their 'human-touch, high-tech' model and strategic advantages of their Singapore headquarters. TymeBank has also acquired Retail Capital and partnered with ZCC Church, positioning itself as a leading unsecured merchant funder to SMEs in South Africa.

eSwatini is reported to have taken significant loans from Taiwan for the construction of an international conference centre and a luxury hotel, allegedly offering public assets as collateral, which has been denied by eSwatini’s Finance Minister, Thambo Gina.

Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, a divisive figure praised for his technocratic skills and criticized for corruption, is Cyril Ramaphosa's favored choice to address South Africa's electricity crisis. Appointed on March 6 during a highly anticipated cabinet reshuffle, Ramokgopa's task is to revive Eskom, the national electricity company plagued by chaos, looting, and deliberate internal sabotage by its own workers. Success in this role could significantly boost President Ramaphosa's chances of re-election in 2024.

The article discusses the environmental and economic implications of tobacco farming in Zimbabwe. The country is expected to earn a record $777 million from tobacco sales, mainly to China, making it a significant source of foreign currency. However, the expansion of tobacco farming has led to severe deforestation, with small-scale farmers clearing millions of trees annually to use as fuel for curing tobacco. This has resulted in habitat destruction, increased flash floods, erosion, and potential drought and hunger. While laws exist to mitigate these effects, such as replanting trees, they are often not enforced. The British American Tobacco Company has introduced a more efficient drying method to reduce wood consumption. Despite the environmental costs, tobacco farming has been a boon to Zimbabwe's rural economy, especially for women growers, in a country with high unemployment.

African vulture populations are in severe decline, primarily due to poisoning by farmers and poachers, and the illegal trade in vulture body parts for traditional medicine. The decline has been quantified at 80 percent or more over the past three decades for seven species. Farmers use poison to protect crops from various animals, inadvertently killing vultures that feed on the poisoned carcasses. Poachers poison carcasses to prevent vultures from signaling their illegal activities to authorities. The loss of vultures has significant ecological consequences, including increased spread of diseases like cholera and rabies due to uncleaned carcasses and growing feral dog populations. Efforts are being made to conserve vultures, including the establishment of 'vulture restaurants' and alternative methods for deterring predators by farmers.

Lesotho's burgeoning cannabis industry, valued at over $92 million, faces criticism from local growers who feel marginalized by high licensing fees and the dominance of foreign corporations. Despite the country's ideal farming conditions, locals struggle to compete, often resorting to smuggling cannabis to South Africa for better profits. The government promises reforms to ensure local equity in foreign investments, but skepticism remains high among the local population.

Cloete Murray, South Africa's renowned liquidator of assets linked to high-level corruption, was assassinated along with his son Thomas on the country's busiest motorway. The Murrays, who were appointed by the master of the high court to recover taxpayers' money in corruption cases, were attacked by hitmen who forced their SUV off the road and shot them multiple times.

South Africa's government plans to absorb a significant portion of Eskom's debt have been overshadowed by CEO Andre de Ruyter's allegations of rampant criminality within the company, costing Eskom 1bn ZAR ($54m) monthly. De Ruyter's abrupt resignation on February 23 and his claims in an interview with ETV have intensified tensions, further complicated by a lawsuit from the ruling ANC party against him.

Despite South Africa's Supreme Court decriminalizing cannabis use in 2018, historical cannabis possession records continue to prevent many South Africans from obtaining employment and visas for countries like the US, China, and Australia. Individuals like Arnold Malan and Bhekumuzi Nyambose have been significantly affected, with their professional careers and opportunities for emigration hindered by these records. A bill, the Cannabis for Private Usage Bill, has been introduced to expunge these records, but there is skepticism about the police's willingness and ability to act promptly. The South Africa Police Service awaits the passage of the law to begin automatic expungement. Meanwhile, the Sandton Cannabis Boutiques Forum anticipates a potential lawsuit against the police for maintaining these records, which they view as a form of control over citizens.

Zimbabwe faces a severe economic crisis with a 240% inflation rate, driving pastors to leave their ministries for better-paying care work in the UK. Pastors like Tinaye Tangwena, Silas Gatsheni, Dana Sakadzo, and Dean Moloi have moved to the UK, where they find more stable incomes in care work. Despite leaving their congregations, some pastors continue to serve the Zimbabwean diaspora by starting new churches in the UK. The economic disparity between Zimbabwe and the UK is a significant factor in this migration trend.

The Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP), initiated in 2005 in South Africa's Gauteng province, aimed to be a pioneering e-tolling system. However, 18 years later, it has become a costly failure, leaving taxpayers with a R40bn ($2.5bn) debt. There are also concerns about potential corruption and confusion regarding a R7bn ($400m) refund promised to some motorists after the cancellation of the e-toll system.

In Harare, Zimbabwe, the demand for bottled water has skyrocketed due to the poor quality of tap water, which has become undrinkable because of drought, infrastructure issues, and municipal challenges. Residents are turning to bottled water for drinking, while using tap water for other purposes. The situation has given rise to a booming informal economy where individuals sell repackaged well water at high prices. However, not all bottled water sold is safe, posing health risks. The article highlights the struggles of residents, the burgeoning bottled water market, and the health implications of the water crisis.

Cyril Ramaphosa and his supporters secured a decisive majority in the ANC's leadership re-election in December, but his final term as South Africa's president may be complicated by a challenging deputy, according to analysts.

South African universities, including Fort Hare University and the University of South Africa (UNISA), are facing severe corruption and organized crime issues, with instances of assassination attempts, leadership crises, and financial abuses. Fort Hare, once a prestigious institution for African leaders, is now a hotbed for criminal activities, including the selling of fake degrees. High-profile figures, such as Eastern Cape premier Oscar Mabuyane and public service minister Noxolo Kiviet, have been implicated in scandals. The decay reflects a broader 'university capture' phenomenon affecting even top-ranked institutions like the University of Cape Town. Educationists express concern over the impact on black working-class students and the country's development, while some hold out hope for reform led by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

The 24th International AIDS Conference (IAC) in Montreal faces significant challenges due to Canada's restrictive visa policies, which have prevented many delegates from the Global South from attending. The Canadian government has been criticized for its discriminatory immigration practices, which have been highlighted by the rejection of numerous visa applications from Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America. Despite a recent announcement to prioritize visa processing for the conference, many delegates are still unable to attend. The article argues that such exclusionary practices hinder global efforts to address public health crises like HIV/AIDS and calls for a change in how international conferences are hosted.

Rajesh and Atul Gupta, accused of state capture in South Africa, were arrested in the UAE on June 6. Their extradition and conviction could signify a major turning point for South Africa, potentially restoring trust in the state and addressing corruption. The Gupta family is alleged to have influenced former President Jacob Zuma, leading to an estimated $82.6bn loss to South Africa's economy. The capture could also influence anti-corruption efforts across Africa. However, the potential for political polarization and violence in South Africa remains, as the prosecution of Zuma and others has been seen as political persecution by some. The situation is delicate, with the possibility of either a significant victory against corruption or further political unrest.

South Africa, a major coal producer and consumer, faces international pressure to reduce its reliance on coal in light of climate change. Despite visits from climate envoys and discussions at COP26, resistance within the country remains, led by figures like Mineral and Energy Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe. South Africa's economic struggles and the coal industry's role as a temporary economic savior complicate the transition to green energy. The COP26 summit resulted in a financial agreement to aid South Africa's move away from coal, but the article suggests that the amount is insufficient and that without significant funding, coal dependence in South Africa and other Global South nations will persist, hindering global climate efforts.

A year after the ousting of Robert Mugabe, Zimbabwe faces increased economic hardship and political unrest. The government, led by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, has cracked down on protests and ordered a countrywide internet shutdown, affecting the largest mobile provider, Econet Wireless Zimbabwe. The shutdown is seen as a move to suppress dissent and control digital spaces. Zimbabwe is also importing surveillance technology from foreign countries, including a cybersecurity grant from Japan and facial recognition software from China's CloudWalk Technology. These technologies are feared to be used for repressive purposes rather than for public safety. The Zimbabwean government's actions have raised concerns among activists and researchers about the potential for human rights abuses and the establishment of a surveillance state that could be more oppressive than the Mugabe era.

The article by Ray Mwareya discusses the severe poaching and trafficking of pangolins in Swaziland, driven by high demand in Asia for their meat and scales. Despite being the most trafficked animals, pangolins are not well-known. The IUCN has listed all eight pangolin species as threatened. In Swaziland, poaching is exacerbated by low public wages and food insecurity, leading some to hunt pangolins for profit. The Swaziland Tourism Authority and other activists are working to raise public awareness and curb poaching, but corruption and a focus on other trafficked animals like elephants and rhinos have made it difficult to protect pangolins. The article highlights the challenges faced by local authorities and the grim reality of the illegal pangolin trade.

In the rural Manica province of Mozambique, women have taken up dairy farming to support themselves due to the absence of men who migrate for work. However, they face challenges due to lack of property rights and difficulty in accessing credit. Exploitative money-lending syndicates, known locally as echimbadzo, have filled this gap by offering harsh loan terms for dairy calves and cash. Women, bound by cultural norms, risk marital conflict or worse if they take loans without their husbands' consent. The recent drought has exacerbated their plight, leading to crop failure and livestock deaths, making it impossible for them to repay loans. Consequently, lenders have resorted to seizing property or demanding sexual favors as repayment. The women, unable to seek legal recourse due to distance and poverty, suffer in silence.

The article discusses the issue of child smuggling between South Africa and Zimbabwe, focusing on the story of Amos Xulu, a bus driver who transports South African-born children of undocumented Zimbabwean migrants back to Zimbabwe for a fee. Due to strict immigration regulations and the inability of migrant mothers to meet these requirements, they resort to using services like Amos's. The article highlights the risks involved, the legal implications, and the perspectives of various stakeholders, including anti-trafficking campaigners, social outreach coordinators, and the mothers themselves. It also touches on the broader issues of migrant exploitation and the challenges faced by foreign children in South Africa.

The article details the harrowing experiences of Agrippa Machako, a 19-year-old from Zimbabwe, who was lured to Johannesburg with the promise of a job but ended up working as a 'gold slave' in derelict mines. It highlights the plight of thousands of undocumented migrant workers from neighboring countries who are exploited in South Africa's abandoned mines, which are a hub for illegal gold mining. Despite the environmental risks and the prevalence of modern-day slavery, neither mine owners nor the government are willing to rehabilitate these mines due to the cost and falling gold prices. The article also touches on the efforts of the South African government to combat illegal mining and the socio-economic factors that drive people into this dangerous line of work.