Derrick Wachaya

Writer Nairobi, Kenya

I’m Derrick (He/Him), a Journalism and Mass Communication graduate from the Technical University of Mombasa, Kenya. Currently I write about trending topics and major issues affecting Africa for Thred, specifically concerning SDGs. View my Twitter here if you’d like to send me feedback.

Derrick is a Journalism and Mass Communication graduate from Technical University of Mombasa, Kenya. While in High School, I did a bit of French but till now I juggle with pronunciations and am still terrible at it.

Immediately after my undergrad I joined a communications company as a Social Media Community Management intern. During my studies I received training in animation. My new love for visual communication could be my next big venture – well, when I decide to explore it fully!

Currently I write about trending topics and major issues affecting Africa for Thred, specifically concerning SDGs. My aim is to raise awareness on the work being done right now to make a positive and prosperous future a reality! Oh, and I love good music, that’s my therapy, even when I’m writing.

Latest Stories from Derrick

Nigeria contends with yet more school kidnappings

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...

By Nairobi, Kenya
Haiti violence escalates following prisoner escapes

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...

By Nairobi, Kenya
Senegal election delays threaten nation’s democracy

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...

By Nairobi, Kenya
Zimbabwe to block scholarship for LGBTQ+ people

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...

By Nairobi, Kenya
I attended the International Prevention of Violent Extremism summit in Nairobi

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...

By Nairobi, Kenya
Lagos completely bans single-use plastics and styrofoam

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,...

By Nairobi, Kenya
Understanding the Rwanda-UK asylum treaty

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...

By Nairobi, Kenya
The first Somali-American woman mayor in Minnesota at 27

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...

By Nairobi, Kenya
WHO declares Cape Verde officially malaria-free

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...

By Nairobi, Kenya
African bishops stand against Pope Francis’ same-sex blessings

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...

By Nairobi, Kenya