Channel Africa Rise & Shine
News and Current Affairs show that gives insight into political events on the continent and internationally.
Central African Republic heads to pivotal elections amid stability concerns
The Central African Republic (CAR) is set to hold a series of pivotal elections on Sunday, December 28, 2025, a vote widely seen as a major test of the country's democratic institutions and fragile stability after years of conflict. The polls will take place against the backdrop of a controversial 2023 constitution, which removed presidential term limits and cleared the way for incumbent Faustin-Archange Touadéra to seek a third term in office. Voters are expected to cast ballots in presidential and parliamentary elections, alongside municipal elections being held for the first time in decades. For more on this, Political analyst, Jean Donald Taladzi.
Concerns raised over new US-Africa health funding agreements
The United States (US) has signed new health funding agreements with at least nine African countries under a restructured global health framework aligned with the Trump administration's "America First" agenda. The deals reduce overall US aid, require greater financial contributions from recipient governments, and emphasize negotiated, transactional partnerships over traditional assistance delivered through USAID, which has been dismantled. Countries such as Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Lesotho and Eswatini have signed on, with some agreements linked to specific US priorities, including faith-based health care support and migration co-operation. However, questions have been raised about the political and economic implications of these agreements. To provide more insight on these developments, political analyst, governance and social activist Diamone Siulapwa from Zambia.
COSATU warns of massive job losses if Mozal shuts down
The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) has expressed deep concern over reports that Mozal's operations in Maputo, Mozambique, may be mothballed or shut down. The union warns that such a move could put around 5 200 direct jobs at risk, along with approximately 22 000 indirect downstream jobs in South Africa connected to the company. COSATU is urging both governments to work together to find solutions that would allow Mozal to continue operating. For more on this, Matthew Parks, COSATU's Parliamentary Coordinator.
FOSA slams government gazette on salary increases
The Forum for South Africa (FOSA), has strongly condemned proposed salary increases for senior government officials, including the President, Deputy President, Cabinet Ministers and Deputy Ministers. The criticism follows the publication of a government gazette this week, which outlines proposed pay hikes for top office bearers. The move has sparked widespread outrage, drawing sharp reactions from labour unions and several political parties. Channel Africas economics reporter innocent Semosa has more.
G20 Crowned SA's 2025 Word of the Year
G20 is the 2025 South African (SA) Word of the year. This is according to the Pan South African Language Board (PanSALB), in partnership with media research company Focal Points. This was determined after carefully considering a range of words, terms, and expressions, G20 emerging as the winner, prevailing over other notable contenders. Thuto Ngobeni compiled this report.
West Africa wrap with Political Scientist Dr David Matsanga
Rise and Shine takes a look at some of the stories making headlines in the West Africa region, where the landscape is undergoing a massive shift this morning-from the launch of a new regional investment bank to a bold new military alliance among Sahelian states. As the region grapples with security threats and a changing economic order, we look at what these developments mean for the stability of the continent. To help us unpack these stories, is Political Scientist, International Relations, and Conflict Resolution expert, Dr David Matsanga. QUESTIONS * Dr. Matsanga, let's start with a major move by the Alliance of Sahel States. Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger have just launched a "NATO-style" military force of five thousand troops. In a region plagued by insurgency, is this force truly about local security, or is it a symbolic rejection of Western military intervention? * Staying with those three nations, they have also launched a new Confederal Investment Bank. Given their exit from ECOWAS, how significant is this move in terms of achieving true financial independence from the traditional regional blocs? * Moving to the energy sector, Benin, Côte d'Ivoire, and Togo have agreed to explore a gas import alliance. How vital is this cross-border cooperation for stabilizing energy prices and industrializing West Africa? * In Nigeria, there is a sigh of relief as the final 130 abducted schoolchildren from Niger State have been released. However, this follows a string of mass kidnappings-what does this tell us about the current effectiveness of Nigeria's internal security apparatus? * Senegal has just launched a nearly 200-million-dollar agro-industrial zone to cut down on food imports. With global supply chains being so volatile, do you see this as the blueprint for other West African nations to achieve food sovereignty? * In a landmark move for the financial sector, Ghana has officially legalised crypto trading. What are the risks and rewards for a major West African economy embracing digital assets in this way? * The Gambia has unveiled its first-ever National Land Policy to transform land governance. Why is land reform such a critical, yet often overlooked, component of preventing civil conflict in the region? * Finally, Dr Matsanga, looking at all these developments-from new banks to new military alliances-are we witnessing the permanent fragmentation of West Africa, or just a necessary evolution of its power structures?
Libyan Army Chief Killed in Air Crash in Turkey
The Libyan army chief has been killed in an air crash in Turkey. Authorities say General Mohammed Ali Ahmed al-Haddad and four others were on board a Falcon 50 aircraft flying out of the Turkish capital, Ankara, on Tuesday evening. The Tripoli-bound jet had issued an emergency landing request before contact was lost. The aircraft's wreckage was later found south-west of Ankara, and an investigation is now under way into what caused the crash. Now to discussing this further and what it means for the people of Libya, We speak to Ebrahim Deen, Middle East Africa analyst.
Trump administration moves to recall dozens of Biden-era Ambassadors
The Trump administration is reportedly in the process of recalling several career ambassadors who were appointed under former President Joe Biden. Around 30 ambassadors received notices from 17 December informing them that their assignments would end in January 2026. Africa is the continent most affected by the recalls, with 13 ambassadors expected to vacate their posts, followed by Asia. The African countries impacted by the removals are Burundi, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Gabon, Côte d'Ivoire, Madagascar, Mauritius, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Somalia and Uganda. For more on this, International Relations expert from Centre for African Diplomacy and Leadership, University of Johannesburg, South Africa, Dr Oscar van Heerden.
East Africa wrap with Denis Beru, journalist and Team Leader at Grassroot Journalism Kenya
Every Tuesday Rise and shine looks at some of the stories making headlines in the East Africa region, there are ongoing concerns around political stability, civic space, and socio-economic initiatives. From violent unrest in Tanzania following disputed elections and recent protest restrictions in Kenya, to preparations for peaceful polls in Uganda and major infrastructure plans in Mozambique, the region continues to experience important shifts that matter to audiences here at home. To unpack these stories, is Denis Beru, journalist and Team Leader at Grassroot Journalism Kenya. QUESTIONS * Denis, recent reporting from Tanzania highlights the tragic killing of a local journalist while covering post-election protests, alongside widespread claims of excessive force against demonstrators. What can you tell us about the situation on the ground and how journalists are navigating reporting under such conditions? * Alongside the killing, there have been reports of internet blackouts and restrictions during the election protests in Tanzania. From your perspective, how are these communications limitations affecting access to information and public awareness of events? * Turning to Kenya, there was a report of Gen Z protest victims being blocked from marching to the State House and several arrests. What are the underlying grievances driving these demonstrations and how are authorities responding? * In Narok County, tribal clashes prompted a curfew after the displacement and destruction of homes. How significant are these localised security incidents in the broader context of governance and stability in Kenya? * Looking ahead to Uganda, campaigning is underway ahead of the January 15 vote. There are contrasting narratives about peace and political tension - what are you hearing from Ugandan sources about the atmosphere as the election approaches? * Civil society and religious leaders in Uganda have been actively calling for peaceful, inclusive elections. How important is this kind of advocacy, and does it appear to be having an impact on voter engagement or political discourse? * Beyond politics, Mozambique has announced ambitious plans to build major surgical and specialist hospitals with international partnerships. What could this mean for regional health infrastructure and economic development?
Zimbabwe marks National Unity Day honouring 1987 Unity Accord
Over the weekend, Zimbabwe marked National Unity Day, commemorating the historic moment when ZANU-PF and PF ZAPU came together under the Unity Accord. The Zimbabwe Unity Accord, signed on December 22, 1987, was a landmark political agreement that brought an end to the post-independence civil unrest known as Gukurahundi, paving the way for national reconciliation. In an address to mark the occasion, President Emmerson Mnangagwa described the Unity Accord as the bedrock of the nation, stressing that no attempts to divide Zimbabweans would ever succeed. He said the agreement remains a lasting symbol of national cohesion, peace, and unity. For more on this, is Political analyst, Professor Ibbo Mandaza.
Uganda Prisons Officer speaks after his dismissal for political statements on social media
Uganda's political debate has intensified following the dismissal of prisons officer Lawrence Ampe, who has since joined campaign activities of opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine. Ampe was fired for allegedly engaging in partisan politics through social media, a move authorities say violates public service rules. Uganda heads to January 15th general elections. Peter Ndoro spoke toLawrence Ampe on his dismissal, his political activism, and what his case means for freedom of expression in Uganda.
Kenya advances innovation drive through National Innovation Agency
The Kenyan government is said to be advancing technology through various methods. One of the methods is the establishment of the Kenya National Innovation Agency - KeNIA which is a state corporation established under the Science, Technology, and Innovation Act, No. 28 of 2013. The agency is responsible for coordinating the National Innovation System. The United Arab Emirates has recently announced 1 billion US Dollars Artificial Intelligence for Development initiative, and hopefully Kenya will be one of the beneficiaries of the UAE fund. To talk to us further on this we are now joined on the line by the Chief Economist from Mentoria Economics Ken Gichinga.
Across Africa, countries explore tech to modernise elections
Across Africa, many countries are exploring how technology can modernise elections, from biometric registration to electronic and even internet-based voting. In South Africa, the idea of introducing e-voting and i-voting is now under discussion, with electoral authorities consulting communities and traditional leaders about what this could mean in practice. But questions remain about infrastructure, digital skills, trust, and whether rural citizens could be left behind. To help us unpack this debate, we’re joined now by Ambassador Professor Thabo Mpyane, President of the Sovereign Congress of African Leaders.
SA launches manhunt after deadly Bekkersdal tavern shooting
South African (SA) authorities are conducting a nationwide manhunt after armed assailants killed at least nine people and injured ten others in a late-night shooting at a tavern in Bekkersdal, a township about 46 kilometres west of Johannesburg, SA's largest city. Police say about a dozen gunmen, travelling in two vehicles, opened fire with multiple pistols and an assault rifle on patrons inside and outside the establishment in the early hours of Sunday, before fleeing the scene. This is the second mass shooting at drinking establishments in South Africa in recent weeks, part of a broader surge in firearm violence that has alarmed communities and put pressure on police resources To help us understand what is driving this wave of violence and the challenges facing law enforcement, Mike Bolhuis, Specialist Investigator.
Round up wrap with resident analyst Mighti Jamie
On the 'Round Up' wrap segment of the show resident analyst Mighti Jamie speaks about some of the stories highlighted earlier as well as throw forward to the week ahead. ** The United Nations International Organisation for Migration, or IOM says people continue fleeing their homes in Sudan as fighting continues and over 1,000 civilians were killed when a Sudanese paramilitary group took over a famine-stricken displacement camp in Sudan's Darfur in April, including about a third who were summarily executed, this is according to a report by the U.N. Human Rights Office ** Escalating clashes between Democratic Republic of Congo government forces and M23 rebels in South Kivu province have uprooted half a million people and pushed tens of thousands to neighbouring Burundi ** And Africa's biggest football showpiece is back - The Africa Cup of Nations kicked off last night, putting the continent's talent on centre stage. The competition brings together the continent's top nations, with established giants and underdogs all chasing the same dream: lifting the AFCON trophy.
African governments urged to enforce laws protecting women, girls
At the recently concluded 85th Ordinary Session of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, a leading pan-African human rights organisation has issued a stark warning about the continued widespread violations of women’s and girls’ human rights across the continent. Equality Now, which works globally and across Africa to protect and promote the rights of women and girls, told the Commission that despite powerful regional legal frameworks, including the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the Maputo Protocol,many African governments are failing to turn these commitments into real protection and justice on the ground. Issues highlighted include continued sexual and gender-based violence, weak enforcement of laws, systemic barriers to justice, gaps in reproductive health rights, and rising anti-gender backlash that threatens hard-won legal protections. To help us understand the scale of these challenges and what must be done, we speak now with Gicuku Karugu, Program Officer at Equality Now.
Arty Beat
Here's this week's segment of the African Arty Beats.
Sudan Named World's Most Neglected Crisis of 2025
Sudan has been named the world's most neglected crisis of 2025. This is according to a Context crisis poll of 22 leading aid organisations. The humanitarian catastrophe engulfing Sudan has unleashed horrific violence on children and uprooted nearly a quarter of the population.Some 30 million Sudanese people - roughly equivalent to Australia's population - need assistance, but experts warn that warehouses are nearly empty, aid operations face collapse and two cities have tipped into famine. Thuto Ngobeni compiled this report.
2025 in Review: SADC and ECOWAS Face Political and Economic Storms
In this half an hour we look at the year that was for regional blocs - The Southern African Development Community (SADC) and West African regional organisation (Ecowas)... Governments across Southern Africa have had to deal with a number of setbacks in 2025 as domestic and global pressure challenge the capacity of the bloc to deal with regional challenges such as post-election political crisis in Mozambique, the socioeconomic problems of Zimbabwe and Malawi... Ecowas on the other end it's facing challenges of division with Sahel countries, Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger have withdrawn from the organisation and have formed a new Sahel region organisation. All these compounded by the shock as US President Donald Trump announce a raft of global trade tariffs in April and cutting aid to a number of African countries .Now to look at all this and what these regional blocs are to expect in the year 2026 is Policy and Political Analyst, Prof Somadoda Fikeni
WHO and India Host World Summit on Traditional Medicine
Today is the third and final day of the World Health Organization (WHO)'s Second Global Summit on Traditional Medicine, jointly organized with the Government of India taking place in New Delhi. The meeting has brought together government Ministers, scientists, Indigenous leaders, and practitioners from more than 100 countries. The Summit is expected to announce major scientific initiatives and new commitments aimed at advancing the implementation of the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025-2034, centred on stronger evidence, better regulation, systems integration, collaboration and community engagement. For more on this, Dr Philippe Doo-Kingue | WHO Regional Advisor of Tradional Medicine at the WHO Africa office
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