Robert Mugabe, the former president of Zimbabwe who died at 95, is viewed as a criminal despot by Europeans but remains a hero to many Africans for his fight against neocolonialism. Initially celebrated for liberating Zimbabwe from a racist regime and for his social and racial reconciliation policies, Mugabe's reputation deteriorated in the late 1990s due to social discontent following IMF-imposed austerity measures. His violent land expropriation campaign in 2000 further tarnished his image in the West.

Jacob Zuma faces charges of corruption, money laundering, and fraud related to a bribe from Thales. His absence from court, attributed to illness, was contested by the judge. The ANC's youth league and regional branches criticized the judge's decision, claiming it threatens national stability. Zuma's son, Duduzane, linked to the Gupta family's corruption network, remains a controversial figure. The state capture inquiry continues to reveal extensive corruption, implicating various individuals and organizations.

An NGO report accuses South Africa of complicity in war crimes in Yemen by allowing arms exports to Saudi Arabia and the UAE, despite embargoes. The German company Rheinmetall, through its joint venture with South African Denel, allegedly supplied arms used in attacks on Yemeni civilians. The report criticizes South Africa's arms control mechanisms and highlights the humanitarian crisis in Yemen, exacerbated by these arms sales. Key figures like Nelson Mandela and Navy Pillay are mentioned for their stances on arms control and human rights.

During a royal visit to South Africa by Philippe and Mathilde, a delay in customs prevented them from seeing a new vaccine production machine, only its life-size photo. José Castillo, founder of Univercells, anticipates the production of 50 million mRNA vaccine doses annually at Afrigen's Cape Town labs. South Africa's mRNA COVID-19 vaccine is nearing animal testing, with broader aspirations to produce vaccines for other diseases, including HIV. Belgium has invested 8 million euros to support vaccine production initiatives in South Africa, Rwanda, and Senegal.

Cyril Ramaphosa was reelected as the head of the African National Congress (ANC) with 56% of the votes from 4,324 party delegates, defeating his rival Zweli Mkhize, who was supported by proponents of radical economic transformation, including expropriation of white farmers and the creation of a state bank. Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana welcomed the continuity of economic policy, while the 'moderates' secured four of the six leadership positions within the ANC. Ramaphosa must now be cautious of his vice president, Paul Mashatile, who recently shifted support to Mkhize.

Saray Khumalo, a South African mountaineer born in Zambia, speaks to girls in a Soweto high school, encouraging them to dream big and overcome challenges. She uses her mountaineering experiences, including climbing Everest, as metaphors for personal growth and aims to change how black girls see themselves. Khumalo, who has published her autobiography, is on a quest to complete the 'Explorer's Grand Slam' by climbing the highest peaks on all seven continents and skiing both poles.

South Africa is increasingly plagued by organized crime, ranking 19th globally in the 2021 Organized Crime Index. Gangs are active in various sectors, including illegal mining, human trafficking, and cybercrime, with extortion becoming particularly rampant. Construction projects, such as a halted college in Cape Town, are frequently targeted by armed gangsters demanding protection money. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the situation, leading to further impoverishment and gang activity. The article highlights the challenges faced by local businesses and the role of police corruption in the proliferation of crime.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledged the need for better protection against climate change following the devastating floods on April 11 and 12, which caused significant human and material losses. Dewald van Niekerk, director of the African Centre for Disaster Studies at North-West University, emphasized that the government's negligence played a crucial role in the tragedy, suggesting that it cannot be considered a natural disaster despite the exacerbating effects of climate change.

Meryame Kitir, a 41-year-old Belgian minister of Moroccan descent, has made a significant impact with her unique background and approach. Despite her official role, she remains connected to grassroots struggles, as evidenced by her regret over missing a meeting with textile workers in South Africa. Kitir's life story, marked by early hardships and the loss of her parents, underscores her resilience and commitment to social justice. Her journey from a mining town in Limburg to a ministerial position highlights her determination to seize educational opportunities and navigate cultural expectations.

Desmond Tutu's funeral in Cape Town was marked by his final message of humility and environmental respect. Only 100 attendees were present, reflecting Tutu's wish for a modest ceremony. His daughter, Mpho Tutu, and other mourners, including President Cyril Ramaphosa, highlighted his legacy of love, humor, and advocacy for the voiceless. Tutu's simple pine coffin and the eco-friendly 'aquamation' process underscored his environmental concerns. Mourners from various backgrounds, including former neighbors and colleagues, shared their memories and Tutu's disappointment with the current state of South Africa, particularly regarding corruption and social justice.

The article explores the economic and social challenges faced by the younger generation in South Africa, particularly in the context of racial inequality and unemployment. It highlights the perspectives of several young South Africans, who express frustration with the ANC's governance and the persistent economic disparities. The narrative underscores the disillusionment with the ideal of a 'rainbow nation' and the impact of corruption on the country's progress.

Desmond Tutu, the former Archbishop of Cape Town and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, passed away at the age of 90 on December 26, 2021. Tutu was a charismatic figure who played a pivotal role in the anti-apartheid movement and the subsequent reconciliation process in South Africa. Despite his efforts, he was unable to convince apartheid leaders and President Thabo Mbeki to acknowledge their roles in human rights violations. Tutu was also critical of the ANC's governance, particularly under the corrupt leadership of former President Jacob Zuma. Throughout his life, Tutu remained an outspoken advocate for various causes, including the fight against homophobia and the oppression of Palestinians.

In South Africa, the government is intensifying vaccination efforts against COVID-19, especially with the emergence of the Omicron variant. Despite a media campaign urging vaccination before the summer holidays, only 36% of adults are vaccinated, far from the 70% target. Skepticism fueled by social media and rumors of side effects hinders progress. Incentives like financial compensation and a lottery have been introduced. Some universities and employers are requiring vaccination, and the government, supported by the trade union Cosatu, is considering mandatory vaccination for certain professions and public spaces, despite opposition from some unions and individuals.

The Omicron variant is rapidly increasing in South Africa, affecting more young people. Jinal Bhiman suggests that those previously infected with Delta or vaccinated may have reduced protection against Omicron. The variant is likely to surpass Delta globally, but it remains uncertain if it will cause more severe illnesses. The reaction of wealthy countries, which involves closing borders and punishing South Africa, is criticized for harming the country's economy and morale.

The emergence of a new COVID-19 variant in South Africa poses a significant threat to the country's tourism industry and public health. The variant, which has numerous mutations, is believed to be highly contagious and potentially resistant to existing vaccines. The UK’s travel restrictions have severely impacted South African tourism, leading to substantial financial losses. South African scientists and officials are calling for international support to manage the crisis. The variant's rapid spread, particularly in Gauteng province, has prompted concerns about a potential fourth wave and the need for renewed lockdown measures.

Graeme Addison, a former communication professor turned rafting guide, narrates the story of the Vredefort crater in South Africa, the world's oldest and largest visible crater caused by a meteorite impact. The site, now a haven for wildlife, offers unique geological insights into asteroid impacts. Despite its UNESCO World Heritage status, local development plans are stalled, partly due to corruption. The article highlights the historical and scientific significance of the crater, its impact on the region's geology and gold deposits, and the ongoing monitoring of asteroid collision risks by NASA.

South Africa, heavily reliant on coal, is set to begin its energy transition with $8.5 billion in international aid from Germany, the US, the UK, and France to develop renewable energy. Currently, renewables account for only 6% of the country's energy production, with coal at over 80%. The aid aims to support the conversion of Mpumalanga province, home to most of the country's coal plants, many of which are set to close in the next 15 years. President Cyril Ramaphosa hopes this partnership will serve as a model for climate action in developing countries. However, local communities like Phola suffer from severe pollution, with health impacts such as respiratory diseases. Activists face threats while protesting against air pollution. The coal industry is a significant employer, and there are concerns about the economic impact of transitioning to renewable energy. Minister of Mines and Energy Gwede Mantashe has been resistant to rapid renewable energy development, emphasizing the need to avoid economic collapse.

Annually, between June and August, billions of sardines, specifically California pilchards, migrate along a cold current from South Africa's Cape Agulhas to Mozambique before dispersing into the Indian Ocean, a movement linked to their reproductive cycle. Since around 2009, their numbers have been declining, with some years seeing no migration, which may be due to undetectable schools or deeper travel in warmer waters. Observers like James Taylor and guide Gary Snodgras witness the feeding frenzy of dolphins and other predators on this spectacular event.

Jacob Zuma's downfall is attributed to the actions of two prominent women, Sisi Khampepe and Thuli Madonsela, who played significant roles in South Africa's judiciary and anti-corruption efforts. Khampepe, a judge at the Constitutional Court, and Madonsela, a former public protector, were instrumental in exposing Zuma's involvement in state capture and corruption. Zuma's defiance of court orders and his supporters' calls for clemency highlight the political tensions within the ANC. The article also touches on Zuma's ongoing legal battles, including a corruption case involving the French company Thales.

Pangolins, the only mammals with scales, face extinction due to high mortality rates after release and a lucrative smuggling trade for their scales, which are used in traditional Chinese medicine. Seizures of African pangolin scales increased from 2 tons in 2013 to nearly 97 tons in 2019. Efforts in South Africa, such as the Phinda reserve, aim to reintroduce pangolins to areas where they've disappeared. Despite recent progress, including harsher penalties for traffickers and increased protection in China, the species is still at risk, with one pangolin killed every five minutes. Conservationists remain hopeful but stress the urgency of saving pangolins within two decades.

Efforts are underway in South Africa to save the pangolin, the world's most poached mammal, from extinction. Conservationists like Charli De Vos and Sholto-Douglas are using satellite tracking to monitor and protect these elusive creatures. Despite a 2017 ban on pangolin trade, illegal trafficking has surged, driven by demand in Southeast Asia for their meat and scales. The Phinda project, which costs 5000 euros per pangolin, aims to increase the population and eventually repopulate other reserves, similar to successful efforts with the black rhino.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has been advocating for better vaccine access for Africa, but the continent has received limited doses from initiatives like Covax and donations from China and Russia. South Africa's vaccination campaign has faced criticism for its slow pace and strategic inconsistencies, with only a small percentage of the population vaccinated so far. The government has recently secured millions of doses from J&J and Pfizer/BioNTech, aiming to vaccinate 42 million adults by February 2022. Concerns remain about logistical challenges, especially in rural areas, and the potential impact of a third COVID-19 wave during the southern winter.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has been advocating for better vaccine access for Africa, but the continent has received limited doses, with only 16 million delivered to 31 countries through the Covax initiative. South Africa's vaccination campaign has faced criticism for its slow pace and strategic inconsistencies, including reliance on Covax and issues with AstraZeneca's vaccine. The country has now secured 31 million J&J and 20 million Pfizer/BioNTech doses, aiming to vaccinate 42 million adults by February 2022. Concerns remain about logistical challenges and the potential impact of a third COVID-19 wave during the southern winter.

The AstraZeneca vaccine shows only 22% efficacy against moderate cases of the South African COVID-19 variant, disappointing South Africans who were preparing to vaccinate healthcare workers. The South African government, led by President Cyril Ramaphosa and Health Minister Zweli Mkhize, has decided to halt the use of AstraZeneca doses and instead use the experimental Janssen vaccine from Johnson & Johnson, which has shown promising results in preventing severe COVID-19 cases. The University of Witwatersrand conducted the study revealing AstraZeneca's low efficacy, while Glenda Gray, leading the Janssen trials, remains optimistic about its potential.

South Africa received its first million doses of Covid-19 vaccines to begin immunizing medical staff, despite paying double the price per dose compared to the European Union. The South African government faces criticism for late procurement and is awaiting more affordable vaccines from Johnson & Johnson. President Cyril Ramaphosa criticized wealthy nations at the Davos forum for hoarding vaccines, while the WHO reported stark disparities in global vaccination rates. South Africa, the most affected African country by the virus, needs more vaccines to reach a 60% immunization target.

Initiatives are emerging across Africa to combat COVID-19 related disinformation and corruption. In Senegal, efforts are being made to verify rumors and change the narrative about Africa's experience with the virus, countering inaccurate WHO projections. Accountability Lab is using community radios and rap groups to inform rural communities, while in Mali, they are addressing false beliefs about natural protection from the virus. Reignite Africa in Uganda is helping young artists and activists share their experiences during the pandemic, and in Kenya, the Centre for Development and Peace has created a website for tracking public health budgets.

Social entrepreneurs and NGOs in Africa are mobilizing to combat coronavirus-related misinformation and the misappropriation of international aid. Initiatives include Real411 by Media Monitoring Africa to counter false information, Ouestaf News for fact-checking, Accountability Lab for community outreach, Re ! gnite Africa for youth engagement, and Yourbudgit against corruption. These efforts aim to increase transparency, inform rural communities, and encourage citizen participation in public decision-making.

The song 'Jerusalema' by Master KG and Nomcebo Zikode has become a global hit, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially released in South Africa in November 2019, it quickly gained popularity across Africa and later worldwide, thanks to the #JerusalemaDanceChallenge on social media. The song's success was further boosted by a remix featuring Burna Boy and the release of the film 'Gangster Paradise: Jerusalema' on Netflix. The track has been embraced by streaming platforms and radio stations, achieving significant milestones, including 1 billion views. The song's appeal lies in its comforting message and its ability to bring people together during challenging times.

The murder of a white farmer, Brendin Horner, in South Africa has ignited significant tensions and protests among the farming community. The incident has led to accusations of government complacency and inaction, particularly from organizations like Afriforum. Julius Malema, a radical political figure, has called for further protests, exacerbating the situation. The article discusses the historical context of farm attacks, the perceived increase in such incidents, and the debate over their motivations, with some attributing them to organized crime rather than racial hatred.

Since the start of the lockdown in South Africa, poaching in Dinokeng Game Reserve has increased by over 30%. The reserve, which houses the Big 5, has struggled with a lack of resources due to the pandemic's impact on tourism. Tim Higgs, an ex-military officer, leads the anti-poaching efforts. The reserve has faced challenges such as thefts from lodges and increased poaching activities, with locals sometimes involved. The reserve's management has tried to support the local community with food parcels and educational programs, but the pandemic has halted these initiatives. The South African president, Cyril Ramaphosa, announced a partial reopening of restaurants and hotels, which may help the tourism sector. However, the future remains uncertain, especially for reserves in remote areas.

South Africa is conducting trials for a Covid-19 vaccine, despite widespread rumors and misinformation. The vaccine, already tested in the UK, will involve 2000 South Africans, including 50 HIV-positive individuals. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation funds the trial, facing accusations from figures like Louis Farrakhan and Ice Cube. The trial aims to ensure Africa's access to the vaccine, with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa advocating for patent-free, widely available vaccines. The initiative has sparked controversy, especially following insensitive remarks by French professor Jean-Paul Mira, but has received support from local and international health leaders.

South Africa is participating in clinical trials for a COVID-19 vaccine developed by the University of Oxford, with hopes of securing doses for the African continent. The trials involve 2,000 South Africans, including HIV-positive individuals, and aim to test the vaccine's efficacy and safety. Despite initial controversy over using Africa for vaccine trials, experts like Helen Rees argue that participation is crucial for access to future vaccines. The trials are part of a broader effort to ensure equitable vaccine distribution amid concerns of 'vaccine nationalism.'

South Africa's mass testing campaign has been instrumental in slowing the spread of COVID-19, with significantly lower infection and death rates compared to the UK. The campaign, praised by the WHO, involved extensive community health worker engagement. However, the strategy faces challenges such as test shortages and delays in results, leading MSF to withdraw. Experts debate the efficacy of continued mass testing, with some advocating for a focus on health centers. As South Africa begins easing restrictions, concerns about a potential surge in cases remain, with preparations underway to handle an expected increase in infections.

South Africa has conducted a massive campaign against COVID-19, screening 11 million people and testing nearly 600,000. The country's early response, including a strict lockdown and a unique community screening and testing (CST) campaign, has been praised by the WHO and may explain the slow development of the epidemic compared to the UK. However, the strategy has reached its limits with testing backlogs and resource constraints. MSF has withdrawn from the CST campaign, and as the country prepares to ease lockdown measures, a surge in cases is seen in Cape Town. MSF Belgium is opening a 60-bed field hospital in Khayelitsha township to help combat the virus.

Cuba has sent over 1,200 medical professionals to fight coronavirus in 23 countries, including in Europe. These medical workers contribute significantly to Cuba's foreign currency earnings, surpassing tourism revenue. The Cuban embassy in Pretoria stated that Cuba would continue to pay the doctors' salaries, with South Africa only covering transport, accommodation, and food expenses. However, reports suggest that the South African government initially allocated 22 million euros for 187 Cuban doctors, implying a high cost per doctor, most of which is paid to the Cuban authorities. The South African Medical Association (SAMA) criticized the move, noting that local retired doctors would cost less and are willing to help in the pandemic fight. South Africa's Health Minister Zweli Mkhize praised Cuban preventive medicine, citing their low infant mortality rate.

In Johannesburg's Alexandra township, residents face challenges in adhering to COVID-19 precautions due to overcrowded living conditions and limited resources. The South African government has imposed restrictions on gatherings, but misinformation and myths persist among the population. Community members share their experiences and concerns, highlighting the need for better hygiene and support. President Cyril Ramaphosa acknowledges the efforts but suggests more stringent measures may be necessary. The article underscores the vulnerability of impoverished areas and the importance of government intervention.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa declared a state of disaster, implementing measures such as school closures, banning large gatherings, and restricting flights from high-risk countries to combat Covid-19. The announcement led to a rush for disinfectants and masks among South Africans. Despite only 61 confirmed cases and no deaths, the government is taking strong actions due to the high number of at-risk individuals, including those with HIV, tuberculosis, and other health conditions. Concerns include the impact on overcrowded living conditions and the healthcare system's capacity to handle a surge in cases.

Since the fall of Mugabe, human rights violations in Harare have intensified, with the population growing increasingly impoverished. Activist Tatenda Mombeyarara from the Citizen Manifesto movement recounts the torture he endured on August 13, including being beaten, having his leg broken, and suffering burns and other injuries at the hands of masked men armed with AK47s, typically associated with the military.

In the South African township of Alexandra, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) are gaining support by distributing land and promoting their policy of land expropriation without compensation. Despite the severe poverty in the area, with many families living in cramped conditions, the EFF's initiatives are providing hope for better housing. The article highlights the stark contrast between Alexandra and the nearby affluent Sandton, and features personal stories of residents benefiting from the EFF's actions.