Latest Stories from Derrick
Morocco’s wildfires are destroying its forest cover
Morocco, known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes, is facing wildfires that are wreaking havoc on its forest cover. The wildfires in Morocco have inflicted severe damage on its forest cover, leading to the loss of countless hectares of pristine woodland. Forests are not only vital carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, but they also support diverse flora and fauna, protect watersheds, and provide a livelihood for...
Niger’s coup garners support from students
In a surprising turn of events, Niger witnessed a coup led by a group of military officers, which has surprisingly gained widespread support from students who have taken to the streets in solidarity. The coup, which took place late July, has thrown the country into a state of uncertainty, with many hoping for a change in leadership and an end to corruption and political instability. Led by General Abdourahamane Tchiani,...
South Africa leads in global unemployment crisis
A South Africa report by the UN reveals a disconcerting national unemployment rate that persistently hovers above 30%. Gen Z in particular have an unemployment rate exceeding 60%. South Africa is grappling with a deep-rooted unemployment crisis. The United Nations recently released a report that paints a somber picture, revealing that more than half of South African Gen Zers are not employed. One leading factor is a struggling economy, marked by...
Ethiopia restores social media after 5 months of shutdown
Ethiopia has taken a momentous stride towards reinstating communication freedom and reconnecting its citizens with the digital realm by lifting its social media ban after a prolonged five-month shutdown. The restoration of access to popular platforms like Facebook, TikTok, Telegram, and YouTube comes as a welcome relief for millions of Ethiopians who were cut off from the global digital landscape since the government's drastic measure in February. The Ethiopian government imposed...
How Okutoyi and Jabeur are popularising African tennis
Hailing from Africa, tennis players Okutoyi and Jabeur have become an inspiration for young women, showcasing the power of dedication, talent, and resilience in pursuit of one's dreams. In sport, few narratives are as captivating and inspiring as the rise of young athletes breaking barriers and defying odds. Such individuals are 19-year-old Angella Okutoyi and 28-year-old Ons Jabeur, rising stars in the world of tennis. Okutoyi, born and raised in...
Understanding Uganda’s TotalEnergies’ lawsuit
Ugandan activists are legally fighting TotalEnergies, the French multinational oil and gas company. This lawsuit shines a spotlight on the human rights and environmental concerns surrounding the company’s operations in Uganda. Uganda has become an attractive destination for multinational corporations seeking to exploit its abundance of resources. This rush for extraction and economic gain often comes at the expense of local communities and the environment. TotalEnergies, one of the world's...
Kenya to host Africa Climate Summit and Africa Climate Week 2023
Under the theme ‘Driving Green Growth and Climate Finance Solutions for Africa and the World,’ the upcoming Africa Climate Summit and Africa Climate Week 2023 events are set to galvanize international collaboration and shape a sustainable future for Africa. In a global landscape dealing with the escalating immediacy of climate change, Africa finds itself at a pivotal crossroad. The upcoming Africa Climate Summit, scheduled to take place from the 4th...
Kenyan startup uses VR to teach about pollution
Kenyan startup Ukwenza VR is using virtual reality technology to improve young people’s understanding of environmental challenges such as plastic pollution and climate change. Despite the efforts of governments, organizations, and the private sector, the utilization of technology in most African countries is still expensive. Digital devices like laptops and tablets continue to be accessible mainly to privileged students, predominantly in private schools. Despite the global advancements in educational technology,...
Côte d’Ivoire’s ambulance boat revolutionises healthcare access
In an initiative aimed at improving healthcare accessibility in remote areas, Côte d'Ivoire launched its first-ever ambulance boat this month, catering to the medical needs of villagers residing along the country's Assinie-Mafia region. Government, healthcare practitioners, and local communities in Assinie-Mafia are working together to improve emergency medical services across all of Côte d'Ivoire. A new ambulance boat named Min N'Gouamin has just been unveiled. Translated to ‘my health’, it...
Attack on secondary school in Uganda claims 41 lives
A secondary school in western Uganda was targeted by armed rebels last Friday, resulting in the loss of several students' lives. The ISIS-linked Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebel group is believed to have been behind the attack. A terrorist attack took place at Lhubirira secondary school last Friday, which is located less than 2km from the Democratic Republic of Congo border. School dormitories were set on fire when students were...
