Zimbabwe's legalization of cannabis for medical and scientific use in 2018 marked a significant step towards economic diversification in Africa. The continent, traditionally reliant on fluctuating cash crop markets, could benefit from the lucrative cannabis industry, which promises job creation and economic growth. Despite its potential, many African governments remain hesitant due to stigma and concerns over addiction. However, countries like South Africa and Uganda are making strides in decriminalization and regulation. The United Nations' reclassification of cannabis in 2020 could further boost the sector's growth. Challenges include high licensing costs and the need for advanced farming technology, which may limit small farmers' participation.

Militants linked to the Islamic State have captured the port of Mocímboa da Praia in Mozambique's Cabo Delgado province, highlighting the national government's struggle to control the insurgency. Mozambique's security forces are underprepared, and the government has sought assistance from the Southern African Development Community (SADC), which has shown little interest in intervening. The conflict has led to significant casualties and threatens regional stability. Mozambique relies on private international support, but nonmilitary solutions remain largely unexplored. The insurgency jeopardizes foreign investment, with Total signing a security agreement to protect its $20 billion liquified natural gas project.

Armed attacks by extremist militant groups in Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado province have surged, causing regional concern. The Islamic State, along with local and regional extremist groups, are behind the violence, which has killed over 1,000 people and displaced more than 200,000 since 2017. The insurgency threatens multinational investments and regional stability, but the Southern African Development Community (SADC) has been slow to respond. Mozambique's government, aided by private military contractors, struggles to contain the violence. Regional cooperation is deemed essential to prevent the spread of extremism, with comparisons drawn to Boko Haram's rise in Nigeria.

Zimbabwe faces a deepening crisis with rampant unemployment, the effects of a devastating drought, and the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbating hunger and poverty. The informal sector, employing 80% of the population, has been hit hard by lockdowns. Individuals like Samantha Murozoki and sisters Sandra Chikwama and Caroline Bushu have started food schemes to help the hungry. The United Nations warns of potential famines in Africa, and the World Food Programme is leading efforts to feed millions in Zimbabwe, needing substantial funding to continue its work. The Zimbabwean government is also expanding social protection programs to address the crisis.

Zimbabwe's public health care system is under strain, lacking basic drugs, essential equipment, and running water. The Covid-19 pandemic exacerbates these issues, with people risking infection just to fetch water for daily needs. In Chitungwiza, residents like Marian Chiroodza must choose between staying home without water or risking exposure to the virus. Cuthbert Ngonyama sells water from his borehole, despite the risks. Harare's mayor acknowledges the city's water supply is insufficient, and Bulawayo has introduced water rationing. Resident associations are taking legal action to ensure water availability during the lockdown. The Community Water Alliance reports over half of Zimbabweans lack access to safe water. Africa's response to the pandemic has been proactive, with many countries quickly implementing measures. Zimbabwe's government may extend its lockdown, and experts predict a high mortality rate due to the collapsed health system.

Southern Africa is experiencing severe power shortages due to underinvestment in the energy sector, aging infrastructure, and corruption. Zimbabwe faces up to 18 hours of daily load shedding, relying heavily on expensive power imports. Despite abundant renewable energy resources, the country has not made significant investments in this area. South Africa also struggles with power cuts, primarily due to its reliance on aging coal plants and delayed projects. Both countries need to diversify their energy mix and attract private investment to harness renewable energy sources. The region's energy crisis presents significant opportunities for investment and development in renewable energy.

Zimbabwe's new land reforms under President Emmerson Mnangagwa mark a departure from the anti-white stance of former President Robert Mugabe, allowing white farmers to apply for land and extending 99-year leases previously reserved for black farmers. Despite these changes, white farmers remain skeptical about the bankability of the leases and demand full land compensation and title deeds to secure financing. The government aims to compensate white farmers for improvements on the land, but not the land itself, and faces internal opposition from hard-liners within the ruling party. The reforms are seen as an attempt to attract foreign investment and address the country's economic crisis, but challenges remain, including international isolation and a poor human rights record. The unresolved land issue and food insecurity continue to plague Zimbabwe, with millions facing starvation.

The article discusses the online casino industry in South Africa, highlighting the safety, legality, and availability of games and bonuses for South African players. It emphasizes the convenience of payment methods and the transparency of recommended casinos. The article also addresses common questions about online gambling, including the potential to win real money and the security of online games. Furthermore, it presents a projection of gambling revenue in South Africa, expecting it to rise to R30 billion by 2019, with casinos taking the largest share. The article also touches on the gambling markets in Nigeria and Kenya, noting their growth and challenges such as economic slowdowns and competition. It concludes by stating that the gambling industry's future in these regions will be influenced by economic conditions, with potential for increased spending if the economy improves.