Latest Stories from Derrick
Zimbabwe to block scholarship for LGBTQ+ people
In a controversial announcement, Zimbabwe's Vice President, Constantino Chiwenga, declared the government would block scholarships for LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly those sponsored by GALZ, a membership organization advocating for the rights of such groups in Zimbabwe. The state university scholarship program, which caters to individuals aged 18 to 35, has been a crucial avenue for many aspiring students to pursue higher education in Zimbabwe. For LGBTQ+ individuals, however, that option is...
I attended the International Prevention of Violent Extremism summit in Nairobi
This week, the International Prevention of Violent Extremism commemoration brought together a diverse array of organisations, leaders, and communities across the globe for a collective sustainable response to violent extremism. I left feeling buoyed. In Nairobi, participants from various backgrounds showcased a collective effort to address the global challenge of violent extremism. Representatives from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), interfaith leaders, youths, refugee groups, and government officials...
Lagos completely bans single-use plastics and styrofoam
Nigeria's Lagos state government has implemented a comprehensive ban on single-use plastics and styrofoam, aiming to reduce the environmental impact of these non-biodegradable materials. Lagos, one of the most populous cities in Africa, has been grappling with the environmental consequences of plastic pollution for decades. Single-use plastics and styrofoam products, commonly used in packaging and food services, have contributed significantly to environmental degradation, posing threats to marine life, soil health,...
Understanding the Rwanda-UK asylum treaty
In recent years, the global asylum landscape has been influenced by numerous treaties and agreements aimed at addressing challenges posed by forced migration. The Rwanda-UK Asylum Treaty stands out as a subject of significant debate and scrutiny. Asylum seekers' rights, the human rights situation in Rwanda, and the broader implications of the Rwanda-UK agreement have become focal points of discussion within international circles. The treaty, signed last month, has been...
The first Somali-American woman mayor in Minnesota at 27
Nadia Mohamed secured her place in history by becoming the first Somali-American woman to be elected as the mayor of St. Louis Park city in Minnesota. At the young age of 27, Mohamed has not only defied conventional expectation but has also paved the way for a generation of diverse, young leaders. Nadia Mohamed's journey to the mayor's office is one marked by resilience, determination, and a commitment to community...
WHO declares Cape Verde officially malaria-free
In a historic milestone for public health, the World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared Cape Verde malaria-free. This announcement comes after three years in which a single case of local transmission was not reported. Cape Verde has successfully eliminated the transmission of malaria within its borders, marking a major achievement in the ongoing battle against the disease. The country joins Mauritius and Algeria as the only three African nations to...
African bishops stand against Pope Francis’ same-sex blessings
Last month, Pope Francis allowed priests to bless same-sex couples, signaling a move towards inclusivity within the Roman Catholic Church. However, African bishops' strong opposition highlights a clash between the Vatican's evolving stance and entrenched cultural norms on the continent. In December, Pope Francis made an announcement on the highly controversial topic of LGBTQ+ blessings in church through an official statement released by the Vatican. The historic decision to allow...
Climate change is decimating Zimbabwe’s elephant population
In the heart of Zimbabwe's Hwange National Park, a devastating crisis is unfolding as the nation grapples with the loss of a hundred elephants this year alone. The cause of this tragedy is not poaching, but rather an insidious force exacerbated by climate change – drought. In the African continent, elephants are continuously succumbing to the harsh realities of climate change. According to the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW),...
Discussing the Africa Horn’s climate refugee crisis with an expert
As COP28 continues, critical discourse surrounding climate change is unfolding. While sweeping decarbonization plans take center stage, immediate relief in the African Horn doesn’t appear to be forthcoming. Can we amplify the discourse of those most affected, we ask an expert on the subject. As Thred has covered across several recent stories, the Horn of Africa, comprising countries like Somalia, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Djibouti, and Sudan, is grappling with the severe...
Egypt’s soilless farming revolution is underway
In the arid landscapes of Egypt, where the Nile River has long been the lifeline for agriculture, a groundbreaking agricultural revolution is taking root, soilless farming. In recent years, Egypt has been increasingly thwarted by water scarcity. The Nile, which has been the nation’s primary source of water for agriculture, is being put under growing pressure due to factors such as climate change, population growth, and local pollution. Additionally, the...
