AfricaLink
News, Analysis and Service from Germany and Europe - in 30 Languages
Nigeria divided over reintegrating Boko Haram fighters
The Nigerian military says ex–Boko Haram fighters deserve a second chance. Many Nigerians disagree. We explore the backlash and what's at stake.
Pope Leo in Cameroon: Faith, power and politics
Pope Leo XIV has drawn huge crowds in Cameroon, calling for peace and condemning corruption. His message is stirring both hope and debate. So can faith help shape Cameroon's political future?
Zambia police recruitment secrecy sparks demands for answers
A leaked memo and quiet call-ups saw thousands report for police training without public notice. Authorities call it internal, but critics say the secrecy undermines trust and accountability.
Uganda's opposition under pressure as NRM expands power
Uganda's ruling NRM, led by President Yoweri Museveni, is drawing in opposition and independent MPs. With defections rising and parties divided, critics warn Uganda's multiparty democracy is being hollowed out.
What was the Sudan conference in Berlin about?
As Sudan's war enters its third year, a generation of children is growing up knowing nothing but violence, hunger, and displacement. This week, Germany convened governments, UN agencies and aid groups to step up the response.
Why Nigerian insecurity matters beyond its borders
Nigeria's counterterrorism strategy is under intense scrutiny following the killing of dozens of civilians in a recent military airstrike on terrorists.
Detention, democracy and dissent in Tanzania
Tundu Lissu, Tanzania's main opposition leader, has spent a year in detention. What does that say about democracy and human rights in the country?
Digital trade deadlock: What’s at stake for Africa?
As countries prepare to introduce possible tariffs on everything from cloud services to cross‑border e‑commerce, concerns are rising over what this could mean for Africa's fast‑growing digital markets.
Why Igbo 'kings' outside Nigeria spark controversy
Leaders in Nigeria and South Africa say the title "Igbo king" and related coronations outside Nigeria have no authority. Is this cultural confusion — or does it point to a deeper clash over identity and power?
Why violence keeps returning to Nigeria's Plateau state
Deadly attacks in Jos have once again triggered a heavy security response. Why does Nigeria's Plateau State repeatedly fall back into violence, and what could finally break the cycle?
Remembering Rwanda's 1994 genocide
On April 7 each year, the world honors more than 1 million people murdered during the 100‑day genocide against Tutsis in Rwanda in 1994. The day calls for remembrance, support for survivors, and renewed resolve to prevent atrocities.
Zambia bets on growth after years of reform
Zambia is emerging as one of southern Africa's fastest‑growing economies. As mining booms and farms recover, can years of reform finally deliver lasting stability?
Autism Awareness Day: Nigeria launches biggest screening
Nigeria is marking World Autism Day with its biggest-ever screening drive. The nationwide initiative, "Spark a Spectrum of Possibilities 2026," offers free screenings and consultations aiming to improve early diagnosis and support for thousands of children. Adwoa Tenkoramaa Domena speaks to autism campaigner Maria Okafor, founder of the RBM Autism…
Zimbabwe split over electoral reforms
Zimbabwe's constitutional reform push is sparking intense debate. Critics warn it could extend President Mnangagwa's term and significantly impact how leaders are chosen, but supporters say it will stabilize the country. As public hearings continue, Eddy Micah Jr. speaks with activist Namatai Kwekweza and DW correspondent Columbus Mavhunga to unpack…
Uganda's free-visa policy: Will it lure more visitors?
Uganda has granted visa‑free entry to 40. The move deepens ties with East African neighbours and 21 African nations, while extending perks to select Caribbean, Gulf and Asian states — yet notably excludes the US, EU and the UK. What does this shift say about Uganda’s strategy? Eddy Micah Jnr…
Inside Nigeria's 'money marriages'
In some Nigerian communities, a harmful practice known as 'money marriage,' where young girls are given away to settle family debts, persists. Though outlawed, the tradition is driven by poverty, social pressure, and weak enforcement. What can be done to stop it? Eddy Micah Jr. speaks with lawyer and gender…
Zimbabwe fares double as fuel prices soar
Fuel hikes in Zimbabwe have pushed petrol above $2 a liter and forced transport fares to double, deepening the cost-of-living crisis and leaving many struggling to keep up with rising daily expenses.
TB surge in Southern Africa: Why cases are rising
Despite being curable, tuberculosis (TB) is spreading fast in South Africa and Mozambique. What's driving the rise, and what solutions lie in communities themselves?
Under pressure: LGBTQ+ crackdown in Ghana and Senegal
Ghana's revived anti-LGBTQ+ bill could see offenders jailed for up to three years, while Senegal now imposes sentences of up to ten years for same‑sex relations. What's driving this regional crackdown? Lucy Riley speaks with Angel Maxine—Ghana's first openly transgender musician—and her mother about what it means to raise a…
Maiduguri attacks: What they signal for Nigeria
A wave of deadly blasts rocked Maiduguri in northeastern Nigeria after years of relative calm. More than 20 people killed, over 100 injured. Is this a resurgence of jihadist violence, or a warning that the conflict never really ended? Lucy Riley speaks to Malik Samuel, senior researcher at Good Governance…