Dorcus Kangu, a social worker in Mombasa, Kenya, is dedicated to transforming lives in her community by addressing drug abuse, child trafficking, and gender-based violence. Through initiatives like the Mombasa Rays of Hope tailoring center and the Rays of Hope Community School, she empowers youth with skills and provides education and support to vulnerable children and women. Her efforts have led to significant positive changes, offering hope and opportunities to those at risk.

Bandwidth Cloud Services Group, a Kenya-based fiber company led by Yonas Tesfaye Maru, has lost control of its Zimbabwe subsidiary, Fiber Connections, due to a legal dispute over a $1 million debt. The High Court of Zimbabwe has seized BCS's 100% shareholding in the subsidiary until the lawsuit is resolved. The dispute arose from non-payment to a service provider, Leaning Tree, which claims over $1 million plus interest. The court's decision has placed the subsidiary under judicial control, and BCS has not yet responded to inquiries.

The Next Einstein Forum Africa SDG Week in Nairobi highlights the innovative contributions of young Africans in addressing sustainable development challenges. Despite their significant role, young innovators feel marginalized, with their efforts often unrecognized in global reports. The event emphasizes the need for inclusivity and collaboration among stakeholders, particularly youth and women, to drive positive transformation. Key figures like Arnold Gekonge and Grace Nekesa advocate for sustained youth involvement and recognition in sustainable development initiatives. The forum serves as a call to action for integrating youth contributions into SDG discussions, ensuring their voices are valued in shaping Africa's future.

A tragic boat accident on Lake Kivu resulted in at least 34 deaths and many missing, highlighting systemic negligence and safety issues. Survivors recount overloading and technical problems, with the tragedy exacerbated by the ongoing M23 conflict disrupting road access. Authorities face criticism for lack of regulation and safety measures, with calls for urgent reforms and accountability. The incident underscores the dangerous conditions faced by those relying on Lake Kivu for transport.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is facing a severe Mpox outbreak, particularly in the Maï Ndombe province, with 496 cases and 33 fatalities reported this year. The outbreak is part of a larger crisis affecting the entire country, with over 96% of Africa's Mpox cases originating in the DRC. Challenges such as insufficient vaccine availability and healthcare facilities, along with social customs, are exacerbating the situation. International organizations like the WHO, UNICEF, and Africa CDC are involved in efforts to control the outbreak, but significant obstacles remain, including funding and logistical issues. The crisis highlights the need for global collaboration and improved healthcare infrastructure to combat the enduring threat of Mpox.

The 11th East Africa Internet Governance Forum in Kampala highlighted the challenges and developments in internet governance across six countries. Jean Paul Nkurnziza from Burundi emphasized the country's struggles with power outages and fuel shortages, advocating for a shift to solar energy to improve internet infrastructure. The forum underscored the importance of collaboration and empowering local communities for sustainable internet access. Other countries shared their progress, such as Kenya's digital inclusion efforts and Rwanda's AI school launch. The forum concluded with a consensus on the necessity of internet access for East Africa's progress.

The article discusses global efforts to rejuvenate damaged landscapes and preserve biodiversity, focusing on the Food and Agriculture Organization's framework in countries like India, Kenya, and Vietnam. It highlights the importance of integrating local knowledge with technology to promote sustainable production and ecosystem restoration. The Global Landscapes Forum is creating an AI hub to foster collaboration and innovation. The article emphasizes the role of Africa's youth in addressing the biodiversity and climate crisis, with a focus on community-driven solutions and participatory approaches in tree planting and landscape management.

Governor Andrew Mwadime of Taita Taveta has launched the Taita Taveta Water Point Data and Information System, a digital platform designed to map 931 water points across the county. This initiative, in collaboration with USAID-STAWI, aims to attract investors to complete stalled water projects and initiate new ones, preventing duplication of efforts. The system is expected to enhance project management, decision-making, and equitable access to clean water. Key stakeholders, including Robert Kisyula from USAID-STAWI and Bryson Mwambi from the County Assembly, have expressed support for the system, highlighting its potential to improve water management efficiency and service delivery.

The situation in Ituri province, DRC, has seen a surge in violence, significantly impacting civilians. Bintou Keita, the UN's Special Representative in DRC, reported to the UN Security Council that 26 civilians were killed in a week due to tensions between the Zaire militia and CODECO. MONUSCO and FARDC have established joint patrols to protect civilians. Despite challenges, MONUSCO's efforts have been crucial, including facilitating peace negotiations. Additionally, the M23 conflict has resulted in over 150 deaths and increased displacement since November 2023. MONUSCO has reinforced its presence with South African troops to secure key areas and assist in evacuations.

The Sixth Session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-6) is scheduled to take place in Nairobi, Kenya from February 26 to March 1, 2024, at the UNEP headquarters. The session will focus on addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution and waste. Over 70 Ministers and various Heads of State and Government officials will attend to discuss and adopt resolutions aimed at securing a resilient, green, and inclusive future. Inger Andersen, UNEP Executive Director, highlighted the importance of environmental multilateralism in tackling the triple planetary crisis. Kenya's Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Soipan Tuya, announced Kenya's plans to showcase its progress in the Circular Economy at a side event. The assembly will also feature a youth forum, a high-level leadership dialogue, and discussions on reforming the financial system, water security, mining, ocean governance, and solar radiation modification.