Focus on Africa

Mothers in Lesotho are campaigning against a needle sharing method which exposes drug users to the risks of HIV and other diseases, taking root in the country. What is 'bluetoothing' or 'hotspotting'?Also, the wider impact of the rising Islamist attacks in West Africa And why do people choose Hunger strikes as a form of protest, and are they effective?Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Bella Hassan and Yvette Twagiramariya Technical Producer: Nick Randell Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

Mali's army says it has repelled attacks by jihadists on two military bases. Why is the Al-Qaeda linked group stepping up attacks? South Africa's continued hunt for an alleged illegal mining kingpin in LesothoAnd why is Nigeria the worst place in the world to give birth in?Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Sunita Nahar and Tom Kavanagh in London. Blessing Aderogba in Lagos Technical Producer: Francesca Dunne Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Microsoft founder, Bill Gates says that most of his fortune will be spent on improving health and education services in Africa over the next 20 years. The 69-year-old said, "by unleashing human potential through health and education, every country in Africa should be on a path to prosperity". He also tells us what he makes of online attacks against his philanthropy.Also, we hear about the devastating impact of war on Sudan's childrenAnd how an automated system is protecting birds in South Africa.Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Yvette Twagiramariya, Bella Hassan and Tom Kavanagh Technical Producer: Jonathan Greer Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Joining the discussion are Patrick Smith, Editor of Africa Confidential, who brings insights on political dynamics; Dara Ojo, a macro photographer revealing nature's hidden beauty through intricate insect photography; and Azizat Olaolua, a reporter detailing the devastating impact of recent flooding in Nigeria. They explore survival stories and the urgent need for better flood management. The talk also highlights the creative journey of Ojo and emphasizes the essential role insects play in our ecosystem, calling for greater appreciation and conservation.

Troy Onyango, a Kenyan author influenced by Ngugi wa Thiong'o, discusses the harrowing case of Joshlin Smith, where a mother was convicted for trafficking her daughter, highlighting South Africa's human trafficking crisis. Hilary Leong, CEO of Awareness for Child Trafficking Africa, shares insights on the societal impacts and urgent need for action. Rama Madiba talks about a new trade deal between Kenya and Mayotte, exploring economic opportunities and cultural ties. The conversation pays tribute to the legacy of Ngugi wa Thiong'o, celebrating his profound influence on African literature.

Girma Abebe Tadesse, a Principal Scientist at Microsoft's AI for Good Lab, discusses urgent global matters. He explains how the U.S. halt on student visa applications impacts African students, complicating their educational aspirations. The conversation also tackles Zimbabwe’s controversial radio tax and its economic ramifications. Most intriguingly, Tadesse shares insights on his AI model designed to predict acute malnutrition in Kenya, aiming to equip policymakers with vital data to save vulnerable children.

Brevely Otsheng, a Sahel expert at Control Risk, shares insights on Russia's growing influence in Africa, particularly in military partnerships with countries like Burkina Faso and Mali. BBC reporter Thomas Nadi discusses the Ghana embassy visa scandal, revealing its impact on the Ghanaian community. Joshua Babel poignantly recounts his family's pursuit of justice following the tragic Ethiopian Airlines crash that claimed his son and daughter-in-law, highlighting the urgent need for accountability in aviation safety.

Olumuyiwa Oluo Goyega, Editor-in-chief at Tech Cabal, and Abdullahi Mustaf, BBC Monitoring reporter covering Somalia, delve into Uganda's suspension of military ties with Germany amid diplomatic tensions. They discuss the implications for Uganda's politics as elections approach. The conversation shifts to Somalia, addressing the rise of al-Shabaab and the government's struggle to control clan militias amid serious human rights concerns. Finally, they explore Starlink's ambitious expansion plans in Africa and the regulatory challenges it faces.

In this engaging discussion, Michael Michier, AI expert and co-founder of Everstack, teams up with Hana Tete, the UN's Special Representative for Libya, to explore pressing issues in the region. They delve into Libya's political turmoil and the UN's potential role in fostering stability amid violence and protests. The conversation also highlights the ambitious rise of smart cities across Africa, addressing their technological integration and community impact. Further, they reflect on the humanitarian crisis in Cameroon, sharing poignant stories from those affected.

Guests Patrick Bond, a sociologist, Jebedu Francis Kere, an architect known for designing a mausoleum for Thomas Sankara, and Martha Karua, a Kenyan human rights lawyer, bring diverse perspectives. They discuss troubling crime statistics in South Africa, the historical roots of violence, and the prevailing socio-economic challenges. Martha highlights democratic backsliding in East Africa, with activists facing dire consequences. Jebedu shares insights on the mausoleum's design, symbolizing resilience and hope amidst the quest for justice and empowerment.