A study led by King’s College London confirms that the massive die-off of nearly 400 elephants in Botswana's Okavango Delta in 2020 was caused by toxic algal blooms in stagnant waterholes, exacerbated by climate change. The research highlights the increased risk of harmful cyanobacteria blooms due to drastic shifts in climate conditions, such as those between 2019 and 2020. The findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive water quality surveillance to prevent similar ecological disasters, as the region faces ongoing drought conditions. The study involved multiple international research institutions and emphasizes the broader impacts of climate change on biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Abiy Ahmed, Ethiopia's Prime Minister since 2018, rose to power with a religious narrative, claiming divine purpose. Initially celebrated for peace efforts and reforms, his leadership has been marred by civil war and accusations of using religion for personal gain. The article explores the complex interplay of religion and politics in Ethiopia, highlighting the influence of Pentecostalism and the controversial nature of Abiy's leadership.

The 12th World Urban Forum in Cairo highlighted Africa's urbanisation and climate challenges, focusing on affordable housing, informal settlements, and climate resilience. With Africa's urban population expected to surge, the forum emphasized sustainable urban solutions. Discussions included the impact of climate change on urban areas, particularly affecting women and slum dwellers. Africa's megacity growth was noted, with projections of 14 megacities by 2050. The forum underscored the need for collaboration and innovative financing for urban development, reflecting a growing recognition of Africa's unique urban challenges.

Lesotho faces a severe suicide crisis, with a rate significantly higher than the global average, particularly affecting women. Despite the country's strong Christian presence, churches are criticized for not adequately addressing the issue. The Christian Council of Lesotho denies the severity of the problem, while organizations like Help Lesotho and Africa Project Against Suicide Lesotho actively work on prevention. Experts highlight the need for greater awareness and involvement from religious institutions to combat the stigma and provide mental health support. Socio-economic challenges and cultural stigmas exacerbate the situation, calling for a comprehensive approach to mental health and suicide prevention.

The inaugural Climate and Health Africa Conference (CHAC 2024) in Zimbabwe concluded with the adoption of the Harare Declaration, aimed at enhancing climate resilience within African health systems. The declaration, endorsed by health ministers and representatives from 51 countries, calls for immediate action to address climate-related health risks and improve well-being across Africa. It emphasizes the need for research, policy leadership, and community engagement, aligning with WHO's framework for climate-resilient health systems. The conference also served as a preparatory step for COP29, highlighting Africa's proactive role in addressing climate change impacts on health.

The inaugural Climate and Health Africa Conference (CHAC 2024) is taking place in Harare, Zimbabwe, focusing on the intersection of climate change and health in Africa. The conference aims to address the health impacts of climate change, share innovations, and develop strategies for adaptation and mitigation. Africa, contributing minimally to global emissions, suffers disproportionately from climate change effects, impacting over 800 million people with food insecurity. The conference seeks to redefine Africa's health approach in the context of climate change, resulting in scientific publications, a comprehensive declaration, and new partnerships. Concurrently, the Climate and Health Africa Network for Collaboration and Engagement (CHANCE) promotes networking and policy development related to climate change and health.

Counterfeit and substandard green technology products, particularly from China, are hindering Africa's energy transition by flooding markets with poor-quality solar products. This issue exacerbates energy poverty and environmental degradation, as consumers are forced to rely on traditional energy sources. Organizations like SolarAid are working to mitigate the problem by training locals in solar product repair and recycling. The article highlights the need for stricter regulations and standards across African countries to ensure the quality of imported solar products and reduce the continent's growing e-waste problem.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has lifted a 20-year moratorium on the death penalty, citing the need to address army traitors and urban terrorism. This decision has led to numerous death sentences, including for three American citizens, and has raised concerns among human rights organizations. Congolese advocates argue that the move is a step backward for human rights and could influence other African nations to reinstate the death penalty. They emphasize the need for a legal moratorium and eventual abolition, highlighting the DRC's ratification of international instruments against capital punishment. The article critiques the DRC's judicial system as lacking independence and resources, making it ill-equipped to handle fair trials, especially in politically charged cases.

John Bradburne, a lay member of the Third Order of St. Francis, is on the path to potentially becoming Zimbabwe's first Catholic saint. Executed during Zimbabwe's liberation war, Bradburne is revered for his dedication to leprosy patients and is considered a martyr. The process for his sainthood, initiated by the Congregation for the Causes of Saints in Rome, involves multiple stages and requires evidence of miracles attributed to him. Despite delays due to the pandemic, the process is progressing, with significant support from the John Bradburne Memorial Society and his family. Bradburne's cause is based in the Diocese of Harare, and his supporters hope for his beatification within their lifetime.

Zambia is set to experience 21-hour power cuts due to low water levels at Lake Kariba, a result of severe droughts and climate change. The hydropower plant, a major electricity source for both Zambia and Zimbabwe, is affected by reduced water storage. Both countries are exploring energy diversification, including solar and coal projects, to address the energy deficit. The Batoka Gorge Hydro project is planned to increase hydropower capacity. Experts emphasize the need for improved water management and regional cooperation to mitigate the impact of droughts on energy supply.