World-leading ivory ban becomes law in the U.K.
The act will introduce a total ban on dealing in items containing elephant ivory, regardless of their age, within the U.K., including export from or import to the U.K..
Sub-Saharan Africa
Sub-Saharan Africa spans dozens of countries south of the Sahara, each with distinct challenges and achievements. This archive collects milestones in health, education, conservation, and economic opportunity from across the region — reported with context and care.
U.K. pledges £50m to help end female genital mutilation across Africa by 2030
The British government is to invest £50m in an attempt to end female genital mutilation by 2030, claiming it is the single biggest investment to tackle the issue by an international donor.
Ethiopia and Eritrea to sign peace agreement after two decades of hostility
On Tuesday, the leaders of Ethiopia and Eritrea reopened two land border crossing points for the first time in 20 years, clearing the way for trade between the two nations.
Ethiopia opens Africa’s first waste-to-energy facility
It is supposed to take 1,400 tons of waste daily which figure comes up to about 80% of refuse generated by Addis Ababa. It will go on to supply the capital with 30% household electricity needs whiles conforming to global standards on air emissions.
Nine African cities commit to reaching zero carbon by 2050
Accra, Dar es Salaam, Addis Ababa, Lagos, Dakar, Durban, Tshwane, Johannesburg, and Cape Town have pledged to reach zero carbon in 30 years.
South African parliament approves national minimum wage bill
South Africa’s parliament passed a national minimum wage bill by an overwhelming majority to tackle strikes and wage inequality.
Boko Haram has been routed from the 24 local areas in Nigeria they used to administer
Boko Haram, and by extension ISIS/ISIL, has been routed from the 24 local areas in Nigeria they used to administer. Bolstered by international assistance, the Nigerian army has led this regional fight against terrorism.
Google’s new Africa app aims to beat slow internet speeds, high data costs
Google is releasing an app in Africa that will help internet users overcome obstacles such as the lack of high-speed connectivity and the cost of data on the continent.
European Investment Bank commits $25 million to strengthen African off-grid solar access
The $25 million in financing from the EIB will enable d.light design to develop the installation of solar kits in sub-Saharan Africa and aim to hit its goal of reaching 10 million solar installations within 5 years.
Sierra Leone just held the world’s first blockchain-powered election
Agora’s work in Sierra Leone marked an important milestone on the path to a more transparent and fair democracy built on blockchain technology.