Focus on Africa

In this engaging discussion, guests include Mohamed Kassimji, a seasoned diplomat with deep insights into U.S.-South Africa relations, Hannah Wanjir-Rida, a CEO focused on international development, and Sahar Amarir, a North Africa analyst. They unpack the tense Trump-Ramaphosa meeting, revealing implications of Trump's controversial remarks on human rights. Plus, they delve into the South African crime crisis and its international ramifications, alongside the upcoming leadership election for the African Development Bank, highlighting candidates' strategies to drive Africa's growth.

Tanya Pacifico, Chief of Mission for the International Organization for Migration in Djibouti, highlights the challenges faced by migrants in the country amid a crackdown aimed at undocumented individuals. Kambale Musavuli, a human rights advocate, discusses the impact on vulnerable populations like women and children. Izmi Stollard, a BBC Climate and Science reporter, delves into the dire environmental implications of deforestation in Africa, linking it to conflict and urging for global action to protect crucial tropical forests.

In this discussion, Jok Madut Jok, a fellow at the Rift Valley Institute, provides keen insights into the fragile peace in South Sudan, diving into the historical context of its ongoing crises. Kenyan journalist Hanifa Safia Adan shares powerful narratives about young Africans’ thoughts on tightening UK immigration policies, revealing their aspirations and challenges. Emeka Chuksnadi, a Nigerian swim coach, discusses his inspiring initiative, Swim in One Day, which empowers children with disabilities to overcome fears through swimming, showcasing resilience and hope.

Mayeni Jones, the BBC's Africa correspondent, joins fellow journalists Omar Wali and Piers Edwards to discuss harrowing findings of child trafficking and abuse within South Africa's illegal mines. They reveal the dire conditions under which vulnerable children work and their suffering due to exploitation. The conversation also touches on financial scandals in The Gambia and growing public discontent regarding corruption. Additionally, they highlight a landmark legal ruling in Nigeria that addresses negligence in sports, aiming to improve player safety and accountability.

Burkina Faso's military ruler, 37 year old Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has skilfully built a persona of a pan-Africanist leader, determined to free his nation from what he sees as, 'the clutches of Western imperialism and neo-colonialism'. This message has resonated across Africa and beyond on social media. But what's fact and what's fiction? Why has Ethiopia's government banned the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) from taking part in elections? And Benin's bid to become Africa's cycling superpower. Presenter: Audrey Brown Technical Producer: Jonathan Greer Producers: Yvette Twagiramariya, Patricia Whitehorne and Bella Hassan Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Alice Muthengi and Andre Lombard

Mali's military junta has dissolved all political parties in the country. Why are the youth dissenting?Why are Nigerians being trafficked to Ivory Coast?And plans by Ethiopia to allow foreigners and companies to buy property in the countryPresenter: Blessing Aderogba Producers: Nyasha Michelle and Tom Kavanagh in London, Richard Kagoe and Frenny Jowi in Nairobi. Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Technical Producer: Jonathan Greer Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

Medical professionals in various parts of Ethiopia are on strike. They say they are seeking adjustments in salaries, improved benefits and better working conditions. We hear from Ethiopian doctors.Also, as the movie industry expands in Africa, so do concerns about the safety of actors.And we'll meet 19 year old Makhosazana "Khosi" Dlomo, who is breaking barriers as the first black female competitor in tent pegging.Presenter: Audrey Brown Technical Producer: Chris Kouzaris Producers: Bella Hassan, Blessing Aderogba and Yvette Twagiramariya Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

The UN says "a double crisis" is facing the DR Congo, as it suffers flooding and mass displacement caused by ongoing conflict.Why is Sierra Leone’s largest diamond miner laying off more than 1,000 workers?And we visit churches in South Africa where polygamy is allowed.Presenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Richard Kagoe in Nairobi with Nyasha Michelle, Yvette Twagiramariya and Tom Kavanagh in London Technical Producer: Pat Sissons and Kane Morgan Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

The United States said it was pulling the plug on millions of dollars' worth of aid to Zambia's health sector after the country failed to tackle 'systematic' theft of much needed medicines. The US Ambassador to Zambia, Michael Gozales' said that the "difficult" decision was made after repeated warnings to the Zambian government, to safeguard vital drugs meant for the country's most vulnerable patients. We'll hear analysis.Also, why did the International Court of Justice dismiss Sudan's case of genocide against the United Arab Emirates?And the history behind one of South Africa's official languages, Afrikaans, which celebrates 100 years this year!Presenter: Audrey Brown Technical Producer: Pat Sissons Producers: Bella Hassan and Yvette Twagiramariya Senior Journalist: Karnie Sharp Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi

The Roman Catholic Church has a new leader, Pope Leo XIV. What do youth from the world's youngest Catholic population want?Why did billionaire and philanthropist Bill Gates decide to close his foundation in 2045?And how are parts of Zimbabwe's capital tackling an infestation of bed bugsPresenter: Audrey Brown Producers: Richard Kagoe and Frenny Jowi in Nairobi with Tom Kavanagh in London and Blessing Aderogba in Lagos. Technical producer: Craig Kingham Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Editors Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi.