Latest Stories from Derrick
Nigeria contends with yet more school kidnappings
Nigeria has found itself once again thrust into a state of anguish and despair after 287 school children were abducted last week. The repercussions continue to reverberate across society, leaving scars that run deep amongst thousands of victims. Nigeria’s security situation continues to worsen after 287 children between the ages of seven and eighteen were abducted in north-western Kuriga Kaduna state. A further fifteen were abducted the same week by...
Haiti violence escalates following prisoner escapes
The Haitian government declared a 72-hour state of emergency after armed gangs stormed two major prisons in the country last Sunday. Close to 4,000 inmates have reportedly escaped. This past weekend, gang members made a daring move by breaking into the nation’s two biggest prisons, spiralling insecurity in the country. According to the UN, gang violence in Haiti has escalated since the assassination of president Jovenel Moïse in 2021. Close...
Senegal election delays threaten nation’s democracy
Senegal is in a political crisis as the eagerly awaited presidential election faces yet more unexpected delays, causing widespread protests and raising doubts about the nation's democratic strength. The presidential election, initially scheduled for this month February 25, was unexpectedly postponed due to unforeseen circumstances, leaving the nation in a state of uncertainty. The decision made by President Macky Sall, has been met with skepticism and concern, as many believe...
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...