PLACE aims to address the inequality of mapping data by creating a non-profit data trust that serves the public interest. The organization emphasizes the importance of making mapping data accessible, affordable, and available globally. PLACE operates on core principles such as democratizing data, government engagement, local partnerships, fair pay, and ethical use. The trust will be governed by an independent board of trustees and will rely on a membership model to ensure sustainability. PLACE collaborates with various stakeholders to promote data ethics, transparency, and security.

Kenya has introduced 'smart' identity cards, known as Mvuvi cards, to distinguish genuine fishermen and loggers from poachers in Lamu County, which houses 60% of the country's protected mangrove forests. The cards, featuring photos and fingerprints, aim to curb illegal activities and protect the environment. Funded by the EU and USAID, the project initially launched in 2018 but faced security issues. The initiative is now being strengthened, with 700 fishermen registered and plans to issue 1,000 cards in the first phase. The cards are expected to enhance security and support the fishing industry, which is under threat from climate change, poaching, and mangrove loss.

In Kyrgyzstan, new shorter treatments for drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) are transforming lives, significantly improving recovery rates and reducing the duration and severity of side effects. Funded by USAID and led by the KNCV Tuberculosis Foundation, the new regimens, including the drugs bedaquiline and delamanid, have increased treatment success rates from 56% to 80%. The program also emphasizes outpatient care and monitoring, reducing the need for prolonged hospital stays. The initiative has been particularly beneficial for patients like Eldos, who can now continue working while undergoing treatment, and for children who face fewer side effects.

The Conservatives, known as the world's winningest political party, were ousted from power after 14 years of chaotic and divisive rule in the UK. Keir Starmer is on course to become the next Prime Minister, indicating a significant political shift.

Kenya has introduced the 'Mvuvi' smart ID card to combat illegal fishing and logging, particularly in Lamu County, which houses a significant portion of the country's protected mangrove forests. The card, featuring a photo and fingerprint, aims to enhance security and environmental conservation. The initiative, funded by the EU and USAID, is managed by the Kiunga Youth Bunge Initiative, which has registered 700 fishermen and plans to issue 1,000 cards in the first phase. The project addresses the challenges posed by climate change, poaching, and mangrove loss, with hopes of revitalizing the local fishing industry.

Kenya's north coast fishing communities are set to benefit from government-issued 'smart' ID cards called Mvuvi cards, designed to distinguish legitimate fishermen and loggers from poachers. The cards, which feature a photo and fingerprint, will help protect against illegal fishing and logging of mangroves, crucial for mitigating climate change impacts. Mangroves absorb and store carbon dioxide effectively and provide coastal protection and fish breeding grounds. Kenya has lost a significant portion of its mangroves, with 20% disappearing between 1985 and 2009. The Mvuvi card project, funded by the EU and USAID, aims to secure the fishing industry, which faces threats from climate change, poaching, and mangrove loss. The initiative is led by the Kiunga Youth Bunge Initiative, which plans to issue cards to 1,000 fishermen in its first phase.

Kenya has introduced 'smart' identity cards, known as Mvuvi cards, to help distinguish genuine fishermen and loggers from poachers along its north coast. These cards, featuring photos and fingerprints, aim to curb illegal fishing and logging, particularly in Lamu County, which houses a significant portion of Kenya's protected mangrove forests. The initiative, funded by the EU and USAID, seeks to address the adverse effects of climate change and over-harvesting of mangroves. The project, initially piloted in 2018, has faced security challenges but aims to issue 1,000 cards in its first phase. Local fishermen have reported declining fish stocks and increased challenges due to climate change and competition from foreign vessels.

In Kyrgyzstan, a group of young women are defying gender norms by building the country's first spacecraft, aiming to launch a CubeSat by 2021. The Kyrgyz Space Program, consisting of women aged 17 to 25, is learning physics, computer programming, and 3D printing to empower women in a country where gender discrimination is prevalent. The project, financed by crowdfunding and supported by foreign embassies and organizations, has received guidance from NASA rocket scientist Camille Wardrop Alleyne. Despite facing criticism and trolling, the team is determined to send a feminist message and inspire women and girls globally.

In Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, a group of young women known as The Satellite Girls are working to build the country's first spacecraft through the Kyrgyz Space Programme. Initiated in 2018, the programme aims to launch a CubeSat satellite by 2021, with training led by 19-year-old Alina Anisimova. The project, supported by mentors like NASA's Camille Wardrop Alleyne, seeks to empower women in a country with high levels of gender discrimination. The programme is financed through crowdfunding and aims to inspire future space projects and societal empowerment.

Kyrgyzstan, a country with high rates of drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB), is pioneering shorter, more effective treatments recommended by the WHO since 2015. The new treatments, including drugs like bedaquiline and delamanid, have reduced treatment times to 9-12 months with fewer side effects. A project funded by USAID and led by the KNCV Tuberculosis Foundation has also minimized hospital stays, improved outpatient care, and increased treatment adherence through home visits and video calls. The first cohort of patients showed a promising 80% success rate, a significant improvement from the previous 56%.

Hannah McNeish is a British freelance journalist with a decade of experience reporting from Africa, starting in 2010. Her journalistic work primarily concentrates on issues related to conflict and human rights. Given the nature of her reporting, McNeish likely covers stories that involve war reporting and investigative journalism, shedding light on the complexities and challenges faced by individuals and communities in conflict zones. Her work contributes to the global understanding of the human rights situation in various African regions.

In Sudan's Gedaref state, farmers face severe challenges due to climate change, including erratic rainfall, desertification, and reduced agricultural productivity. Local experts and residents describe the impact of these changes on their livelihoods, with flash floods and droughts destroying crops and livestock. Efforts by the UN Development Programme to introduce climate adaptation measures, such as solar-powered water pumps and tree planting, offer some hope. However, the future remains uncertain as environmental degradation continues to threaten the region's agricultural viability.

In Sudan, a grassroots crowdfunding initiative called Sharia’ al-Hawadith has become a lifeline for sick children, providing essential medicines and funding intensive care units. Established in 2012 by young volunteers, the initiative has raised significant funds through Facebook, bypassing government restrictions that hinder international NGOs. Volunteers and local pharmacists collaborate to ensure medicines reach those in need, with a decentralized management system allowing flexibility and trust. The initiative has garnered widespread support, including substantial donations from Sudanese expatriates and local benefactors, highlighting the community's resilience and solidarity in the face of economic and political challenges.

Reports of women being raped as punishment for their political affiliations are mounting in Burundi, leading many to flee to refugee camps in Tanzania. The violence, often perpetrated by the Imbonerakure, has resulted in severe human rights abuses, including gang rapes and murders. Despite international attention and investigations by the International Criminal Court, Burundi's President Pierre Nkurunziza denies the allegations. Refugee camps in Tanzania offer some medical and psychosocial support, but women continue to face sexual violence even within these camps. Chronic underfunding exacerbates the situation, leaving many women vulnerable and traumatized.

In Swaziland, traditional notions of masculinity are being challenged by the high prevalence of HIV/AIDS, with organizations like Kwakha Indvodza working to reshape what it means to be a man. The country faces significant health challenges, including the world's highest rates of HIV and TB, compounded by cultural attitudes that discourage men from seeking medical help. Efforts are being made to engage men in healthcare, including workplace testing and mobile clinics. The article also highlights the role of traditional healers and the impact of economic hardship on male identity. Despite these challenges, there are positive strides towards better health outcomes and changing gender norms.

Theresa Kachindamoto, a senior chief in Malawi, has become a prominent figure in the fight against child marriages. Despite initial reluctance, she embraced her role and has annulled over 850 child marriages, sending the children back to school. Kachindamoto has faced resistance from parents and traditionalists but has successfully implemented laws and agreements to abolish early marriages in her jurisdiction. Her efforts are supported by local committees, charities, and even Malawi's parliament, which recently passed a law forbidding marriage before 18. Kachindamoto continues to advocate for raising the minimum marriage age to 21 to further combat rural poverty and improve education for girls.

Theresa Kachindamoto, a senior chief in Malawi, has become a prominent figure in the fight against child marriage, having annulled over 850 marriages and sent the children back to school. Despite initial resistance and death threats, she has successfully implemented laws and agreements to abolish early marriage under customary law. Her efforts are supported by local committees, charities, and even Malawi's parliament, which recently passed a law forbidding marriage before 18. Kachindamoto continues to advocate for raising the minimum marriage age to 21 to further combat rural poverty and improve education for girls.

The article highlights the harrowing experiences of Burundian refugees fleeing violence and sexual abuse, particularly at the hands of the ruling party militia, Imbonerakure. It details the brutal assaults and rapes faced by both women and men, and the ongoing challenges they face in refugee camps in Tanzania. Despite efforts by UNHCR and the International Rescue Committee to provide medical treatment, counselling, and legal services, a lack of funding hampers long-term recovery programs. The narrative underscores the urgent need for more resources to support survivors and prevent further sexual violence.

In Malawi, a program led by the Kenyan charity Ujamaa is empowering children to fight sexual abuse through self-defense training and awareness. The initiative, supported by UNICEF, has trained nearly 25,000 children in a year, teaching them to recognize and resist abuse. Despite cultural challenges and systemic issues, the program has shown positive results, with many children successfully defending themselves and reporting abuses. The article highlights the pervasive issue of child rape in Malawi, the cultural practices that perpetuate it, and the efforts to combat it through education and support services.

In Bangladesh, free heart surgeries for poor children are being provided through a charity initiative led by Muntada Aid. The initiative addresses the high cost and limited availability of pediatric heart surgery in the country. Surgeons like Nurun Fatema and Mohammed Abdul Hannan are performing complex procedures, while international medics contribute to training local staff. The program has significantly improved local capabilities, with a record number of surgeries performed. Parents like Prodip and Shebaka Shil, whose daughter Fima received life-saving surgery, express relief and gratitude for the initiative's impact.

Congenital heart disease disproportionately affects the poor in Bangladesh, where there are few skilled surgeons to perform necessary operations. The cost of surgery is prohibitive for many families, leading to desperate measures. Charitable organizations like Muntada Aid offer hope by sending volunteer medical teams to perform surgeries and train local staff, aiming to improve long-term healthcare outcomes.

In Bangladesh, where congenital heart disease is prevalent and medical resources are scarce, the Little Hearts program by British NGO Muntada Aid is providing life-saving surgeries for children. The program, which includes a team of 23 medics from Saudi Arabia, has performed 94 operations in a week, setting a record. The initiative also focuses on training local staff to handle complex pediatric cases. Personal stories of families like Abdul Rajjak's, whose son Siam underwent successful surgery, highlight the critical impact of these medical missions. Despite the challenges, the program has garnered significant support and aims to expand its reach.

Madagascar's shark populations are dwindling due to overfishing and lack of effective enforcement of international conservation laws. Local communities, heavily reliant on fishing for their livelihood, face economic hardships as shark numbers decline. Conservation efforts by organizations like the Wildlife Conservation Society and Blue Ventures aim to establish protected areas and monitor shark catches, but challenges remain due to limited resources and enforcement capabilities. The article highlights the urgent need for sustainable fishing practices and better data collection to protect these vital marine species.

The article explores the drastic decline in shark populations around Madagascar, highlighting the impact on local fishing communities and the broader ecological consequences. It discusses the challenges faced by traditional fishers, the global demand for shark products, and the efforts by conservation organizations like the Wildlife Conservation Society and Blue Ventures to monitor and protect shark species. The narrative underscores the tension between immediate economic needs and long-term sustainability, emphasizing the critical role of local and international conservation initiatives.

In the UN's Bentiu camp in South Sudan's Unity state, over 100,000 people are battling disease amidst a humanitarian crisis. Despite a peace deal in August, violence continues, and the camp faces severe shortages of food, clean water, and medical supplies. Médecins Sans Frontières has treated 38,000 children for malaria since June, but malnutrition and poor living conditions exacerbate the health crisis. Eyewitnesses report systematic violence, including executions, rape, and abductions. The European Union's humanitarian operation highlights the severe conditions and high mortality rates, with large areas inaccessible to aid.

Thousands of women and girls in South Sudan's Unity state have been abducted for sex slavery by government soldiers and allied militias during the civil war that began in 2013. Despite the official end of fighting, survivors continue to suffer. Interviews reveal organized abduction, trade, and enslavement, with victims subjected to gang rape, forced labor, and murder for resistance. The UN has documented extensive abuses, including rape and killings of children. Unity's acting governor, Stephen Taker, denies these allegations, while the UN special representative on sexual violence in armed conflict, Zainab Hawa Bangura, has described Bentiu as the worst situation she's seen in 30 years.

Testimonies from Bentiu, Unity state, reveal systematic abduction and abuse of women by government-allied forces in South Sudan, used as 'wages' for fighters. The conflict, driven by ethnic tensions between President Salva Kiir and former deputy Riek Machar, has led to severe human rights abuses, including rape, abduction, and killings. Despite a recent peace deal, the culture of revenge and ongoing violence pose significant challenges. Human Rights Watch and other organizations highlight the staggering prevalence of sexual violence and abductions, while government officials dismiss these allegations.

Sudan, the last male northern white rhino, and three females in Kenya's Ol Pejeta conservancy represent the final hope for their subspecies. Despite efforts to encourage natural breeding, Sudan's age and health issues hinder success. Poaching and human activities have drastically reduced rhino populations, with South Africa experiencing significant losses. Conservationists are exploring various solutions, including biotech innovations and in vitro fertilization, to save the species. The article highlights the urgent need for effective conservation strategies to prevent the extinction of rhinos.

Peter Karanja, known as Dr. Crocodildo, established a sex toy website in Kenya, a country with conservative views on sex. Despite legal restrictions on pornography and 'indecent' materials, sex toys remain technically legal, allowing Karanja to build a legitimate industry. The website, started in 2009, offers discreet delivery in Nairobi and has a broad selection of imported toys. Valentine Njoroge, a columnist for The Star, discusses the significance of sex toys for African women's ownership of their bodies and sexuality, especially in a society where female genital mutilation and sexual violence are prevalent. The emergence of sex toys challenges traditional views on women's sexuality in Kenya. Following Dr. Crocodildo, other sex toy companies like Raha Toys and Pazuri Place have also grown, indicating a shift in cultural attitudes and the potential for sexual empowerment.

Peter Karanja, known as Dr. Crocodildo, has pioneered the sex toy industry in Kenya, a country with conservative views on sex. Despite pornography being illegal, sex toys remain technically legal, allowing Karanja to capitalize on this opportunity. He started doctorcrocodildo.com to provide a variety of sex toys with discreet delivery in Nairobi. The presence of sex toys is seen as empowering for Kenyan women, challenging traditional views that their sexuality belongs to men. The industry has grown, with competitors like Raha Toys and Pazuri Place also emerging. Writer Valentine Njoroge, a sex columnist, highlights the importance of this shift for women's sexual autonomy in Kenya.

Tanzania, despite receiving substantial foreign aid and experiencing economic growth, is grappling with rampant corruption that undermines its development. The country's corruption perception has worsened, ranking 119th out of 175 countries. High-profile scandals, such as the siphoning of funds from the central bank, have led to donor suspensions. With elections approaching, concerns about corruption and repression are mounting. The ruling CCM party has been in power since independence, and there is fear that natural gas discoveries could lead to further inequality. Efforts by the PCCB to combat corruption are seen as ineffective, with high-level officials often remaining immune from prosecution. The public is increasingly frustrated with corruption but has not yet mobilized against it.

Tanzania's recent legislative actions, including the Cybercrimes Act and the Statistics Act, are seen as severe threats to freedom of speech and independent reporting, especially in the lead-up to the October elections. Activists and journalists, such as Maria Sarungi Tsehai and Maxence Melo, express deep concerns over these laws, which criminalize the sharing of certain information and force service providers to share user data. The laws have been criticized for their potential to stifle dissent and transparency, with significant implications for platforms like JamiiForums, which has played a crucial role in exposing corruption. The government's stance has drawn both domestic and international criticism, highlighting a growing tension between state control and civil liberties.

Fairuz and his wife Hannah, devastated by the conflict in Yemen, were forced to leave their eldest son Adeeb behind as they fled sniper bullets and airstrikes in Aden. Paying $1,300, Fairuz managed to get his family onto a boat to Djibouti. Now in a transit camp in Obock, they are haunted by the fear for Adeeb's safety and the violence they witnessed, including young people being targeted by Houthi rebels. Fairuz, a carpenter, is torn between the dangers of returning to Yemen and the perilous journey to Europe, while grappling with the loss of his homeland and the safety of his family.

Kenyan security forces are actively searching for an al-Shabaab terrorist cell in Nairobi, fearing an imminent attack on the parliament building or another significant target. The group, linked to al-Qaeda and based in Somalia, is suspected of planning a car bomb attack involving 12 jihadists. This development follows recent suicide and mortar attacks in Somalia, highlighting ongoing regional security threats.

In northern Burundi, chronic malnutrition and hunger have forced many farmers like Avito Ndikumasabo to abandon their land and seek aid from the UN’s World Food Programme. The region suffers from severe poverty, overpopulation, and climatic disasters, leading to widespread malnutrition, especially among children. Efforts to combat hunger include land conservation and supplemented feeding programs, but the challenges are immense. Land disputes are common, and the population growth exacerbates the scarcity of arable land. The situation calls for better farming methods and resources to prevent further deterioration.

In Burundi, Albert Ngendera is striving to save crocodiles from being poached and eaten, a practice exacerbated by the country's poverty and past civil war. Ngendera, who has rescued several crocodiles and other animals, hopes to establish a wildlife park despite challenges in securing land. The government, represented by Feruzi Mohamed, supports conservation efforts but faces financial and logistical constraints. The article highlights the urgent need for effective measures to protect Burundi's crocodiles from extinction.

Burundi, identified as the hungriest place on earth, faces severe food shortages due to war, poverty, and overpopulation. Efforts by the United Nations World Food Program and charities like World Vision aim to combat hunger through various agricultural and feeding programs. Despite some progress, with malnutrition rates dropping from 58 to 49 percent, the struggle continues as the population grows and land disputes intensify. Personal stories from individuals like Matthias Bukuru and Pascaline Minani highlight the daily challenges faced by many Burundians.

Fear dominates the atmosphere in Burundi's capital, Bujumbura, as rights activists, journalists, and anti-corruption campaigners face violence and intimidation from the ruling CNDD-FDD party's youth wing, Imbonerakure. Despite official claims of improved security, reports of abuses and authoritarian practices persist. The government dismisses these allegations as political speculation, while international donors and organizations express concern. The upcoming elections in May are fraught with tension, with fears of increased violence and manipulation. Key figures like Pierre-Claver Mbonimpa and Gabriel Rufyiri highlight the ongoing struggle for human rights and anti-corruption efforts in a politically unstable environment.

In Burundi, reports of beatings, intimidation, and extortion have raised concerns of political repression as elections approach in May. Despite a recent decrease in violence, activists, journalists, and political opponents allege that the ruling party is now engaging in electoral fraud. Interior Minister Edouard Nduwimana has dismissed these allegations, as well as a U.N. report accusing government allies of arming youth members. Rights defender Pierre-Claver Mbonimpa claims the ruling party has shifted tactics from violence to vote rigging. Observers have reported youths being bussed to multiple voting locations. The head of the electoral commission, Ndayicariye, has labeled the accusations as political speculation. A coalition of 18 political parties is threatening an election boycott unless a reliable registration process is established, warning of potential violence if their demands are not met.

Nearly 200,000 people have fled to Ethiopia from South Sudan due to a brutal civil war, often arriving with nothing. In refugee camps, UNHCR and partners strive to improve living conditions. Refugees share poignant memories of personal items left behind, symbolizing their former lives and dreams. These items range from a tailor's sewing machine, children's toys, and a comfortable bed, to shoes, a mother's earnings, a student's laptop, and the simple pleasure of eating bread. Their stories reflect the profound impact of loss and the struggle to rebuild lives amidst ongoing conflict.

The article highlights the dire conditions faced by South Sudanese refugees in the Lietchor camp in Ethiopia, where flooding and inadequate resources have led to tragic incidents, including the drowning of a child. The ongoing civil war in South Sudan, driven by political conflict between President Salva Kiir and former deputy Riek Machar, has resulted in widespread violence, displacement, and humanitarian crises. Despite peace talks, the conflict persists, exacerbating the suffering of civilians. Aid agencies are struggling to provide necessary support, with funding shortages threatening the well-being of the refugees.

Illegal wildlife trade, valued at up to $213 billion annually, is funding organized crime, including global terror groups and militias, according to a UN and Interpol report. The illegal timber trade, particularly in Africa, is significantly underestimated and contributes to the financing of groups like Somalia's Al-Shabaab. The trade in charcoal alone is causing substantial financial losses for African governments while benefiting criminals. The report calls for a more systematic response to combat wildlife crime, which is increasingly sophisticated and remains a low-risk, high-profit activity. Key figures emphasize the need to target the kingpins of illegal trade rather than just petty criminals.

South Sudan's President Salva Kiir declared his refusal to accept the International Criminal Court (ICC), aligning with other African leaders who feel targeted by the court. During a visit from Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, who is also indicted by the ICC, Kiir emphasized solidarity with Kenyatta and criticized the ICC's perceived bias against African leaders. The leaders discussed strengthening economic ties between Kenya and South Sudan, including infrastructure projects to reduce South Sudan's dependency on Sudan for oil exports. The issue of the ICC's role will be further addressed at the upcoming African Union summit in Ethiopia.