Eugenia Kargbo has been appointed as Africa’s first chief heat officer in Freetown, Sierra Leone, tasked with protecting the city from the effects of climate change. She joins Jane Gilbert and Eleni Myrivili, who hold similar positions in Miami and Athens, respectively. Kargbo's initiatives include tree planting, waste collection, and awareness campaigns. Her role is supported by the Adrienne Arsht-Rockefeller Foundation Resilience Center, which aims to provide climate resilience solutions to a billion people by 2030.

Sabrina Walter, founder of Women For Change (WFC), addresses the needs of South African women who have survived abuse through online support, highlighting the profound and widespread violence against women in the country. WFC, along with other organizations like Girls Against Oppression (GAO), provides crucial social and legal assistance, filling gaps left by inadequate real-world support systems. Despite the challenges, including police maltreatment and a backlog in forensic DNA analysis, these online platforms have become vital lifelines. Experts emphasize the need for better education and policing to combat gender-based violence, while activists continue their efforts online amidst systemic failures.

Women For Change (WFC), a nonprofit organization founded by Walter, has significantly expanded its online presence since its inception in 2016, now reaching over 10 million people per month across various social media platforms. The organization provides crucial support to abused South African women, leveraging the power of online platforms to offer a lifeline to those in need.

Women For Change (WFC), founded by Sabrina Walter, has grown significantly since its inception in 2016, now reaching over 10 million people monthly through social media. The organization provides crucial support to South African women who have survived abuse, offering education, advocacy, and connections to legal and social resources. Despite the high prevalence of gender-based violence in South Africa, formal support systems are often inadequate, leading to a reliance on online platforms like WFC and Girls Against Oppression (GAO). Experts highlight the need for better policing, education, and a collaborative approach to effectively address the issue. However, digital support has limitations, including accessibility issues and potential misuse of online platforms.

In South Africa, women facing abuse are increasingly turning to online platforms for support and justice due to inadequate real-world resources. Sabrina Walter, founder of Women For Change (WFC), and other activists like Lusyomo-Namakau Simatele of Girls Against Oppression (GAO) are leveraging social media to provide essential assistance. Despite the high incidence of violence against women and systemic challenges such as police maltreatment and forensic backlogs, these online communities offer education, advocacy, and direct support. However, experts like Bernadine Bachar caution that digital solutions are not universally accessible and emphasize the need for a collaborative approach to effectively address gender-based violence.

Voice actors, led by Armando Plata, are mobilizing globally to protect their vocal rights against AI cloning. With AI technology advancing and becoming more affordable, voice actors are at risk of losing income and control over their voices. High-profile cases like Morgan Freeman's voice being used without consent highlight the issue. Voice actors are seeking legislative protection, considering voices as personal patrimony and advocating for audio watermarks. The European Union's AI Act is being closely watched as it could set a global standard for synthetic voice use. Meanwhile, organizations like Voices.com are moving towards ethical voice sourcing, and voice actors are negotiating contracts to safeguard against AI misuse. The industry is pushing for global legislation, but until then, they are taking individual precautions.

The Liesbeek River in Cape Town has become a focal point for a significant land dispute involving Amazon, Indigenous groups, green activists, and land claimants. The issue underscores South Africa's historical and ongoing land inequality stemming from colonial and apartheid-era land grabs. Various civil society organizations are embroiled in legal battles to determine the river's fate, highlighting the emotive and complex nature of land ownership in the country.

The Liesbeek River in Cape Town has become a focal point for land disputes involving Amazon, indigenous groups, green activists, and land claimants. The river symbolizes broader issues of land restitution, environmental protection, and indigenous rights in South Africa. The River Club development, which includes Amazon's site, has sparked controversy, with some indigenous groups supporting it for economic benefits while others oppose it for historical and environmental reasons. The city of Cape Town supports the development for its potential job creation and economic benefits. The article highlights the complexities of land inequality and the interconnectedness of social issues in post-apartheid South Africa.

The Liesbeek River in Cape Town has become a focal point for various social issues in South Africa, including land restitution, environmental protection, and indigenous rights. The river's development, particularly the River Club project involving Amazon, has sparked significant controversy and legal battles among indigenous groups, environmental activists, and local communities. While some see the development as a much-needed economic boost, others view it as a continuation of historical injustices. The case highlights the complex interplay between economic development and social justice in post-apartheid South Africa.

Voice actor Armando Plata discovered that his voice had been cloned using artificial intelligence without his permission, leading to its use in various promotions and narrations. Plata, who has a long-standing career and is the president of the Colombian Association of Voice Actors, expressed concern over the unauthorized use of his voice, highlighting issues of artistic choice and vocal rights.

Voice actors globally are organizing to protect their vocal rights against unauthorized AI cloning, which has led to unconsented use of their voices in various media. Armando Plata, a prominent voice actor, is spearheading efforts in Latin America to legislate voice ownership. The issue is gaining traction worldwide, with organizations like the National Association of Voice Actors and the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists advocating for stronger regulations. The EU's AI Act is seen as a potential global standard. Ethical considerations are becoming more prominent, with platforms like Voices.com prioritizing fair compensation and ethical sourcing.

Voice actors globally are organizing to protect their vocal rights against unauthorized AI cloning, which has led to significant ethical and financial concerns. Armando Plata, a prominent voice actor, is leading efforts in Latin America to legislate voice ownership. The issue is widespread, with artists from South Africa to Japan advocating for stronger protections. The European Union's AI Act is seen as a potential global standard. Companies like Microsoft and platforms like Voices.com are mentioned in the context of AI technology and ethical sourcing. The article highlights the need for global legislation and ethical practices to safeguard the rights and livelihoods of voice actors.

Research published on Tuesday reveals that social media platforms in South Africa are approving xenophobic ads and failing to remove hate-filled content. Global Witness and the Legal Resources Centre tested TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube with ads inciting violence against foreigners, most of which were approved. The study highlights the platforms' neglect of human rights responsibilities, especially with rising tensions ahead of South Africa's 2024 elections. Meta and TikTok acknowledged the issue but cited imperfections in their systems. The article also discusses the broader issue of online hate speech in South Africa and other countries, emphasizing the need for better content moderation.

Voice actor Armando Plata, whose voice has been cloned without his consent, is leading a movement among Latin American voice actors to legislate the 'right to own one's voice.' This push is part of a global effort to protect artists from the rise of AI-generated imitations. The article highlights various international efforts, including legislative initiatives in Colombia, South Africa, Japan, and the European Union, to safeguard voice actors' rights. The industry is also seeing a shift towards ethical sourcing for voice acting, with platforms like Voices.com advocating for fair compensation. Despite the challenges, there is optimism that regulated AI can provide new income sources for artists.

South African companies are innovating to address solar power inequality amid the country's energy crisis. With frequent power cuts affecting daily life, especially for vulnerable groups like the Cape Town Society for the Blind, there is a push towards renewable energy solutions. The government has introduced measures to increase renewable energy capacity, while private companies like Sun Exchange and WiSolar are making solar power more accessible through innovative financing and partnerships. These efforts aim to mitigate the impact of power shortages and promote energy inclusivity, though challenges such as potential privatization risks remain.

Informal workers, who number over two billion globally, are advocating for inclusion in the 'just transition' to a low-carbon economy. At the International Labour Conference in Geneva, workers like Ugandan weaver Betty Lunkuse and Zimbabwean street vendor Lorraine Sibanda highlighted the need for social protection and legal recognition. Organizations such as HomeNet International and Aajeevika Bureau emphasized the importance of integrating informal workers into formal economies to mitigate the impacts of climate change. The call for universal social protection and a seat at decision-making tables was a central theme, with informal workers presenting themselves as part of the solution to climate challenges.

Voice actors globally are uniting to combat unauthorized AI cloning of their voices, which threatens their livelihoods and artistic rights. Armando Plata, a prominent voice actor, discovered his voice was cloned without consent, prompting him to lead legislative efforts in Latin America. Similar movements are occurring worldwide, with actors in South Africa, Japan, and the United States pushing for legal protections. The European Union's AI Act is seen as a potential global standard. Companies like Microsoft and platforms like Voices.com are mentioned in the context of AI technology and ethical sourcing. The article highlights the need for global legislation to protect voice actors' rights and ensure ethical use of AI.

Philanthropists are stepping in to support vulnerable workers and communities in developing nations transitioning from fossil fuels to green energy. The IKEA Foundation, in collaboration with the ClimateWorks Foundation, has launched a $20-million initiative to aid energy transitions in Indonesia, South Africa, and Vietnam. This effort follows significant pledges made at COP26 and COP27 to accelerate just energy transitions in low- and middle-income countries. The G20 has set ambitious renewable energy goals, but critics argue that inclusivity and decentralized renewable energy solutions are lacking. Additional philanthropic contributions are deemed essential for a successful and fair transition, with transparency and community leadership being key factors.

Daniel Motaung, a former Facebook content moderator in Kenya, is suing Meta over poor working conditions and mental health impacts. He has also helped establish the first African union for content moderators. The lawsuit seeks financial compensation, equal healthcare and pay for outsourced moderators, unionization protection, and a human rights audit. Meta and its local outsourcing company, Sama, face growing scrutiny over their treatment of content moderators. The case could have significant implications for tech accountability in the region. Motaung's activism has inspired further legal actions and global support from rights groups.

Diana Ndleleni, a farmworker with permanent lung damage, joined the Women on Farms Project to fight against the use of EU-banned pesticides in South Africa. The collective is demanding an end to toxic pesticide imports, citing health issues among workers. Research by the Heinrich Böll Foundation and the UnPoison network highlighted the export of banned pesticides from the EU to countries like South Africa. The UN Special Rapporteur on Toxics and Human Rights criticized the EU for perpetuating colonial exploitation patterns. South Africa's department of agriculture plans to ban certain pesticides by June 2024, but activists argue the measures are insufficient. During a protest, farmworkers marched to Bayer's offices, demanding an end to the production and export of banned pesticides. Bayer and CropLife insist that pesticides are safe when used correctly, but farmworkers report being exposed without proper protective equipment. Activists are pushing for stronger regulations and public awareness of the dangers of hazardous pesticides.

South African farmworkers, particularly women, are exposed to pesticides banned in the EU, leading to severe health issues. Advocacy groups like Women on Farms Project and UnPoison network are pushing for a ban on these toxic imports. The European Commission and companies like Bayer face criticism for exporting these harmful chemicals. South Africa's government plans to ban some hazardous pesticides by June 2024, but activists demand more comprehensive action. The article highlights the double standards in pesticide regulations and the urgent need for global bans to protect vulnerable workers.

South African farmworkers, particularly women, are suffering from health issues due to exposure to pesticides banned in the EU but still imported into South Africa. Advocacy groups like Women on Farms Project and UnPoison network are pushing for a ban on these hazardous chemicals, highlighting the double standards and health risks involved. The European Commission and companies like Bayer face criticism for continuing the export of these pesticides. The South African government plans to ban some hazardous pesticides by June 2024, but details remain vague. The article underscores the need for stronger regulations and global bans on harmful pesticides.

Surveillance technology exports to Africa from countries like the U.S., Britain, China, Israel, and the EU are on the rise, with Nigeria, Ghana, Morocco, Malawi, and Zambia spending over $1 billion annually. The technology, often funded by Chinese loans, is used for various purposes, including law enforcement and public service enhancement, but raises significant human rights and privacy concerns. Rights groups warn of mass surveillance and misuse of data, with calls for regulatory reforms and transparency in procurement processes. Citizens are adopting privacy tools like VPNs and encrypted messaging to protect themselves.

In South Africa, where violence against women is endemic, many abused women are turning to online platforms for support due to a lack of real-world assistance. Sabrina Walter, founder of Women For Change (WFC), has built a significant online presence to help these women access legal and social support. Despite progressive legislation, systemic issues like police maltreatment and forensic backlogs hinder justice for victims. Other organizations like Girls Against Oppression also provide crucial online support. Experts emphasize the need for better education and policing to combat gender-based violence, while activists continue to fill the gap through digital means.

In South Africa, where violence against women is rampant and support systems are lacking, many women are turning to online platforms for help. Non-profits like Women For Change (WFC) and Girls Against Oppression (GAO) have seen significant growth in their online communities, providing crucial support and resources. Despite the challenges, including police maltreatment and a backlog in forensic DNA analysis, these organizations are filling a critical gap. However, digital support has limitations, and a collaborative approach is needed to effectively combat gender-based violence.

Women in the gig economy are developing their own apps to counter sexist algorithms that penalize them for prioritizing home commitments. From South Africa to Brazil, these platforms aim to provide fair wages, safety, and control over work conditions. Initiatives like We Care, An Nisa, and Senoritas Courier are leading the charge, emphasizing transparency, fairness, and empowerment. ActionAid supports these efforts, highlighting the need for both legislative and grassroots actions to protect gig workers.

Female gig workers globally are developing their own apps to counteract sexist algorithms in existing job platforms that penalize women for balancing unpaid care work with gig work. These new platforms, such as South Africa's We Care, Kenya's An Nisa, and Brazil's Señoritas Courier, aim to provide fair pay, better work conditions, and algorithmic transparency. They are designed to ensure equal opportunity and account for the additional unpaid care responsibilities that women often shoulder. ActionAid's report highlights the discrimination faced by women in gig work and supports the development of these female-led initiatives.

South African farmworkers, particularly women, are suffering health issues from pesticides banned in the EU but still used in South Africa. The Women on Farms Project and UnPoison network are advocating for a ban on these hazardous chemicals, highlighting the double standards in pesticide regulations. Despite promises from the South African government to phase out some pesticides by 2024, activists demand immediate action and global bans. Bayer and CropLife defend their practices, citing compliance with local laws and the importance of proper pesticide usage.

Africa's first climate summit in Nairobi emphasized the continent's potential as a clean energy superpower, with rich natural resources and critical minerals for renewable energy. However, the lack of finance to realize this potential was a major concern. Kenyan President William Ruto and UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres highlighted the economic opportunities and the possibility of Africa becoming a renewable energy superpower. The International Energy Agency and the African Development Bank Group reported that energy investment in Africa needs to more than double by 2030, with a focus on clean energy. The summit saw pledges to support the Africa Carbon Markets Initiative and a $4.5 billion commitment from the UAE for clean energy initiatives in Africa. The 'Nairobi Declaration' adopted by African leaders outlined a common position ahead of COP28, emphasizing renewable energy potential. Despite these efforts, activists point out that funding for fossil fuel extraction continues, and African nations are often locked into long-term loans for such projects, hindering the transition to renewable energy.

The Liesbeek River in Cape Town has become a focal point for land justice in South Africa, highlighting the country's ongoing struggles with land inequality, Indigenous rights, and environmental protection. The river is at the center of a contentious development project involving Amazon's Africa headquarters, which has divided local communities and sparked legal battles. While some Indigenous groups support the project for its economic potential, others oppose it, citing historical and environmental concerns. The case underscores the interconnectedness of South Africa's social issues and the need for balanced solutions that address both land restitution and environmental preservation.

Africa's first-ever climate summit in Nairobi showcased the continent as a potential clean energy superpower, emphasizing its rich natural resources and the need for increased finance to realize a green transition. The International Energy Agency and the African Development Bank Group reported that Africa's energy investment must more than double by 2030, with a focus on clean energy. The United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres referred to renewable energy as 'the African miracle.' The summit resulted in the 'Nairobi Declaration' by African leaders, outlining a common position for the upcoming COP28 talks. However, challenges such as high capital costs, political instability, and continued fossil fuel finance were identified as barriers to Africa's clean energy development.

Data collectors in Johannesburg and Rio de Janeiro are mapping slums to address the needs of unaccounted slum dwellers and lobby for better public services. The Informal Settlement Network (ISN) and its partners have identified missing communities and are piloting waste recycling projects. Despite challenges like distrust and harassment, these efforts have led to improved government services and infrastructure. In Rio's favelas, organizations like Labjaca advocate for basic necessities and engage in data collection to support judicial actions for better living conditions. The work of these data collectors highlights the importance of community-driven initiatives in urban development.

Data collectors in informal settlements near Johannesburg, such as Mfanzile Msibi and his team, have been mapping communities to ensure tens of thousands of residents are accounted for in government records. The Informal Settlement Network and Community Organisation Resource Centre have found discrepancies in government data and are using collected information to lobby for public services. In Ekurhuleni, the number of recognized settlements has been updated to 135. Similar efforts are underway in Rio de Janeiro's favelas, where organizations like Labjaca and Catalytic Communities are advocating for services and collecting data on Covid-19. Data collectors also promote reblocking to improve access for emergency vehicles. The work of these organizations aims to improve living conditions and formalize informal settlements, despite challenges such as distrust of authorities and lack of political will.

Data collectors in informal settlements near Johannesburg, led by Mfanzile Msibi, have been mapping communities to ensure tens of thousands of residents are accounted for in government records. The Informal Settlement Network and Community Organisation Resource Centre have found discrepancies in government data and are using collected information to lobby for public services. They also promote reblocking to improve access for emergency vehicles. Similar efforts are seen in Rio de Janeiro's favelas, where organizations like Labjaca and Catalytic Communities gather data to advocate for resources. Despite challenges such as mutual distrust of authorities and lack of political will, data collectors continue to push for the formalization of settlements and improvement of living conditions.

The Amakua community in South Africa, descendants of enslaved Mozambicans, are demanding justice and reparations for their ancestors' forced labor and land confiscation during colonial and apartheid eras. Community leaders emphasize the need for the return of confiscated land, financial support for cultural preservation, and reparations for historical injustices. The article highlights the broader global movement for reparations for descendants of enslaved people and the complexities involved in seeking compensation from multiple historical perpetrators.

Lelapa AI, an artificial intelligence research lab led by Pelonomi Moiloa, aims to develop algorithms by Africans for Africans, reflecting a push against AI 'colonialism'.

African startups like Lelapa AI are developing AI technologies tailored to African needs, countering what they see as 'digital colonialism' by Western firms. Lelapa AI focuses on language processing for under-represented African languages, while other initiatives like BUAIIR in Uganda use AI to predict crop diseases. Pollicy, a Ugandan data research collective, emphasizes the importance of including African women in tech development. Sunbird AI in Uganda addresses social issues and offers open source AI solutions. Despite the growth of African AI initiatives, challenges such as the digital divide, infrastructure issues, and brain drain persist. The Unesco report highlights the need for AI regulations to prevent exacerbation of social and economic inequalities in Africa.

African startups like Lelapa AI are creating AI solutions tailored to African needs, countering what they see as 'digital colonialism' by Western firms. Lelapa AI focuses on language processing for under-represented African languages, while other initiatives like BUAIIR in Uganda use AI to predict crop diseases. These startups advocate for open source algorithms and prioritizing 'social good' over monetization. Challenges such as the digital divide, electricity and internet cuts, and brain drain persist, but constraints are seen as a canvas for innovation. UNESCO warns that without proper AI regulations, technology could exacerbate social and economic inequalities in Africa.

African tech startups like Lelapa AI are developing AI solutions tailored to local needs to combat digital colonialism by Western firms such as OpenAI and Google. These initiatives aim to protect African data and address local challenges, including language processing and disease prediction in crops. Organizations like Busitema University AI and Sunbird AI focus on open-source solutions for social good, while Pollicy prioritizes the needs of African women in tech. Despite challenges like the digital divide and brain drain, these efforts highlight the potential for innovation driven by necessity.

African startups like Lelapa AI are developing AI technologies to serve the specific needs of the continent, countering what they see as 'digital colonialism' by Western firms such as OpenAI and Google. These startups are creating solutions like language processing tools for under-represented African languages and AI to predict crop diseases, addressing challenges unique to Africa. Despite hurdles such as the digital divide and electricity cuts, these initiatives are seen as necessary innovations driven by local needs. UNESCO warns that without proper AI regulations, there's a risk of exacerbating social and economic inequalities in Africa.

Minerals critical for clean energy technologies, such as lithium from Zimbabwe and cobalt from the Democratic Republic of Congo, are increasingly in demand as part of the global green transition. African governments, aiming to boost processing and retain more economic gains, have restricted or banned mineral exports. However, this strategy may deter foreign investment, according to several analysts.

Johannesburg's inner-city revitalization efforts, supported by South Africa's presidential post-COVID-19 employment stimulus, have created thousands of part-time jobs and improved public spaces. The initiative, which has funded various social projects, faces uncertainty beyond 2024, prompting organizations to invest in skills for long-term sustainability. Despite high unemployment rates, the program has provided valuable work experience and opportunities for marginalized groups. Key stakeholders emphasize the importance of innovation and community investment to ensure continued progress even if government funding ceases.

Johannesburg's inner-city revitalization efforts, supported by the Presidential Employment Stimulus (PES), have created thousands of part-time jobs and improved public spaces. However, funding is uncertain beyond 2024, prompting organizations to focus on skill development for long-term sustainability. Initiatives like Boundless City, Clean City SA, and Water for the Future have made significant impacts, but the future of these projects depends on securing alternative funding sources. The PES program has been crucial in addressing unemployment and urban decay, but its continuation is under review by the Treasury.

Johannesburg's inner-city revitalization efforts, supported by the presidential post-Covid employment stimulus, have created thousands of part-time jobs and improved public spaces. However, funding uncertainty beyond 2024 is pushing organizations to invest in skills for long-term employment. Initiatives like Boundless City, Clean City SA, and Water for the Future are highlighted for their positive impact. The Johannesburg Inner City Partnership has facilitated significant funding, but the sustainability of these projects remains a concern. Experts emphasize the importance of these programs in providing work experience and skills to marginalized youth.

Mental health chatbots using AI are gaining popularity globally as health resources are stretched, despite concerns about data privacy and counseling ethics. The National Eating Disorders Association faced criticism for replacing its helpline with a chatbot that provided harmful advice. AI tools like ChatGPT and Woebot are used as supplementary support, though they face scrutiny over privacy and effectiveness. Experts emphasize the need for robust regulation to protect against unethical AI practices and ensure consistent healthcare standards. While chatbots can simulate empathy, they cannot replace the human empathy that people seek in therapy.

The U.S. National Eating Disorders Association replaced its helpline with a chatbot named Tessa, which was later discontinued for giving harmful weight loss advice to individuals with eating disorders. Nicole Doyle, a mental health counselor, was among five workers laid off following the bot's launch and subsequent removal.

The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) in the US replaced its helpline with a chatbot named Tessa, which was later discontinued for giving harmful advice. The incident raised concerns about the effectiveness and ethics of AI in mental health support. Despite these concerns, AI mental health chatbots are growing in popularity due to stretched health resources. Privacy concerns have been raised by organizations like the Mozilla Foundation. In South Africa, the mental health app Panda is launching an AI-generated 'digital companion' to augment traditional therapy. Research suggests that AI can sometimes provide more empathetic responses than humans, but experts emphasize that technology should complement, not replace, human interaction.

Daniel Motaung, a former Facebook content moderator in Kenya, is suing Meta over poor working conditions and low pay. His lawsuit, which also targets Meta's local outsourcing company Sama, seeks financial compensation, equal healthcare and pay for outsourced moderators, unionization protection, and a human rights audit. Motaung's case has broader implications for content moderation practices globally. Despite Sama's claims of high local wages and wellbeing policies, Motaung and other moderators report severe mental health issues and poor working conditions. The case also raises questions about tech accountability in Kenya.

South African companies are innovating to address solar power inequality amid worsening load shedding. Efforts include financing portable and pay-as-you-go solar systems for citizens and charities. The government has created a new minister of electricity role to tackle the energy crisis, with plans to extend coal-fired power stations and auction renewable energy projects. Companies like Sun Exchange and WiSolar are making solar power more accessible through innovative financing and partnerships. However, experts warn that privatizing electricity production could increase costs for consumers and impact municipal subsidies.

South African companies are innovating to address solar power inequality amid frequent power cuts caused by the struggling state utility Eskom. Private firms are helping citizens and charities access solar power, with excess energy sold back to the government to support subsidies. The Cape Town Society for the Blind (CTSB) is set to receive solar panels and battery storage through support from Sun Exchange and Hannover Re. The initiative aims to mitigate the impact of power cuts on education and business operations, with broader efforts to make solar power more accessible to low-income households. However, the privatization of electricity production and storage poses risks, including increased costs for consumers and potential revenue loss for municipalities.

South African companies are innovating to address the issue of solar power inequality by funding solar panels for charities and the poor amidst severe daily power cuts caused by an ailing electricity grid. Private firms are assisting citizens and charities to access solar power, with plans to sell excess energy back to the government. The Cape Town Society for the Blind is one such beneficiary, set to receive solar panels and battery storage through support from Sun Exchange and funding from Hannover Re. Innovations include portable solar systems and accessible financing options, with companies like Balwin Foundation and WiSolar providing solar solutions to informal settlements and affordable housing developments. President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced plans to fast-track renewable energy projects to address a 6,000 MW deficit and create jobs in the solar industry. However, there are concerns that privatisation of electricity production could lead to higher costs and impact municipal subsidies for the poor.

Domestic workers are a crucial part of South Africa's labor force, making up 6.8% of the employed population. Despite their importance, their wages are often a topic of discomfort. The Department of Labour's minimum wage for domestic workers varies by region and hours worked, with metropolitan areas generally having higher rates. The South African Domestic Service and Allied Workers Union advocates for a higher minimum wage of R2,500 per month. Personal stories of domestic workers highlight the struggles of managing living expenses, including transport and education for their children. Code for South Africa has developed a Living Wage calculator to facilitate discussions between domestic workers and employers about fair wages. The article also touches on the historical context of domestic work in South Africa and the challenges faced by foreign domestic workers.

The article reflects on the 20th anniversary of the Rwandan genocide, where an estimated 800,000 people were killed. The author shares personal experiences from a recent visit to Rwanda, noting the country's economic growth and social initiatives like 'Umuganda'. However, the article also highlights the stark contrasts within the nation, such as the juxtaposition of economic development with political repression, and the peaceful streets with the government's alleged violent actions abroad. The author discusses the complex legacy of President Paul Kagame and the mixed feelings of Rwandans towards their country's progress and the potential dangers ahead. The article suggests that an honest and open dialogue about Rwanda's successes and failures is necessary to honor the victims of the genocide and to prevent future atrocities.