Mozambique's Faded Hotel Squatters Hope For Change After Vote

In Mozambique, residents of the dilapidated Grande Hotel in Beira hope for change following upcoming elections. The hotel, once a symbol of colonial luxury, now houses squatters living in poverty, reflecting the broader socio-economic challenges in the country. The ruling Frelimo party, in power since independence, faces opposition from the Mozambique Democratic Movement. The civil war's legacy and ongoing jihadist threats continue to impact the nation, with residents like Toris Anselmo and Fernando Jose expressing hopes for improved living conditions and opportunities. The article highlights the struggles of individuals like Elaria Ribeiro Punte and Hasanido Arcancu, who dream of better futures amidst adversity.

Mozambique's faded hotel squatters hope for change after vote

In Beira, Mozambique, around 4,000 squatters in the dilapidated Grande Hotel hope for change following the recent elections. The Frelimo party, which has ruled since independence, is expected to retain power despite widespread poverty and the lingering effects of a civil war. Residents, living in dire conditions, express a desire for improved housing and opportunities. The hotel, once a symbol of colonial grandeur, now reflects the country's struggles, with its residents yearning for a better future.

Mozambique observers warn against vote irregularities

Election observers in Mozambique have raised concerns about potential irregularities in the recent vote, which is expected to maintain the ruling Frelimo party's power. Observers from the European Union and the International Republican Institute noted issues such as possible ballot stuffing and inflated voter rolls. The ruling party is accused of benefiting from state resources during the campaign. Despite outgoing President Filipe Nyusi stepping down, Frelimo's candidate Daniel Chapo is anticipated to win. Opposition figures, including Venancio Mondlane, have alleged fraud, though without evidence. The Commonwealth has called for legal institutions to address these concerns.

The women behind Zimbabwe's striking hut painting art

In Matobo, Zimbabwe, women like Peggy Masuku are gaining international recognition for their traditional hut painting art, which is now being incorporated into fashion and design. The art, rooted in Ndebele tradition, is being promoted through initiatives like the My Beautiful Home competition and the Matobo Collection, supported by the German Embassy and local organizations. This has opened new economic opportunities for the artists, allowing them to earn income and gain exposure in markets as far as Europe. The tradition, once a means of communication, is now celebrated for its aesthetic value, with younger generations like Nozipho learning the craft to continue the cultural heritage.

Zimbabwean Schoolkids Given Bikes To Escape Elephant Danger

In northwest Zimbabwe, schoolchildren living near a nature reserve face the danger of encountering wild animals like elephants and hyenas on their way to school. To mitigate this risk, dozens of children have been provided with bicycles to shorten their travel time on foot, enhancing their safety during their daily commutes.

A relative pedals two students to school safely on a donated bicycle near Zimbabwe's Hwange National Park

Children living near a nature reserve in northwest Zimbabwe often encounter wildlife such as elephants or hyenas on their way to school. A relative ensures the safety of two students by pedaling them to school on a donated bicycle.

Heartbreak in Zimbabwe park: elephants' desperate hunt for water

Over 110 elephants have died in Zimbabwe's Hwange National Park due to an extended drought, with rangers struggling to manage the crisis. The park, home to over 45,000 elephants, faces severe water shortages exacerbated by climate change and overpopulation. The drought has forced elephants to venture dangerously close to human settlements in search of water, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable conservation efforts.

Heartbreak in Zimbabwe park: elephants’ desperate hunt for water

Over 110 elephants have died in Zimbabwe's Hwange National Park due to a severe drought, with temperatures reaching 40 degrees Celsius. Rangers, including Simba Marozva, are tasked with removing tusks from deceased elephants to prevent poaching. The park, part of the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area, is home to over 45,000 elephants, which is twice the capacity of Zimbabwe's parks. Tinashe Farawo, spokesperson for Zimparks, confirmed 112 elephant deaths since September and cited climate change and overpopulation as contributing factors. The drought, exacerbated by El Nino, has led to water scarcity, forcing wildlife to seek water near human settlements, with some elephants drinking from contaminated sources.

Heartbreak in Zimbabwe park: elephants' desperate hunt for water

Storm clouds are gathering over Zimbabwe's Hwange National Park, but too late for over 110 elephants that have died due to an extended drought. Rangers are cutting tusks off the corpses to prevent poaching. The park, home to over 45,000 elephants, faces severe water shortages exacerbated by climate change and overpopulation. The drought has forced elephants to seek water in human habitations and neighboring countries, increasing the risk of death. The Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area, despite being a conservation success, is under pressure due to the growing elephant population and climate change.

Drought Kills Elephants in Zimbabwe

A prolonged drought in Zimbabwe's Hwange National Park has led to the deaths of over a hundred elephants, with the situation exacerbated by climate change and the El Niño phenomenon. The park, which houses a large elephant population, is struggling with water shortages, forcing elephants to venture into human-inhabited areas in search of water. The drought has also impacted other wildlife, highlighting the severe environmental stress in the region.