Focus on Africa

Alopecia, the medical term for hair loss, affects an estimated 160 million people worldwide. Some forms of the condition disproportionately affect black women, due to a combination of factors including hairstyles that place tension on the hair, as well as genetic and hormonal influences. Now, some dermatologists are also saying they're seeing more cases, particularly among younger people. Meanwhile, researchers in Japan have hinted at potential new treatments for hair loss. Focus on Africa podcast host Nkechi Ogbonna spoke to 23-year-old Sharon Chepkoech, known online as Kechi, from Kenya, and 47-old-year Mpume Dlamini from South Africa about their experience of living with alopecia and how they are using social media to raise awareness of the condition.Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Fana Negash, Carolyne Kiambo and Keikantse Shumba Senior Producer: Priya Sippy and Bella Twine Technical Producer: Jonathan Mwangi Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

A compliant submitted by ​the Nigerian Press Organisation, which represents newspaper owners, journalists’ unions, ⁠broadcasters and online publishers, has prompted the country's President Bola Tinubu to issue an investigation by the country's competition regulator into major technology companies over alleged anti-competitive practices and unauthorised use of news content. Growing influence of big-tech companies in Africa has sparked concerns over dominance in digital advertising, the use of news content without fair compensation, algorithms that control what people see, and the impact of artificial intelligence on journalism and copyright.Also, we take a look at a new Malawian National Action Plan that seeks to improve the rights of people with albinism in the workplace. We hear from Malawi's Bonface Massah, head of the Africa Albinism Network, who also lives with albinism.Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Ayuba Illya, Helen Oyibo and Blessing Aderogba Senior Producer: Bella Twine Technical Producer: Jonathan Mwangi Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

The UN's humanitarian coordinator for Sudan, Denis Brown has warned that the humanitarian crisis in Sudan's besieged city of El-Obeid is worsening as fighting and a blockade by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces continue. He says repeated drone strikes have hit power stations and water facilities, leaving civilians without essential services. The UN Human Rights Council has also ordered an urgent investigation into alleged crimes committed during the fighting in Sudan’s El-Obeid amid growing fears that violence in the city could escalate into mass atrocities.Also, at least 400 dogs have been killed in the Ethiopian town of Hossana after rabies related complications killed three children and left dozens of others in hospital, sparking outrage among dog owners. We hear from those impacted.Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Keikantse Shumba, Ayuba Illya and Blessing Aderogba Senior Producer: Bella Twine Technical Producer: Jonathan Mwangi Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) Senate adopted a constitutional revision bill in June, which has raised fierce controversy as it would effectively reset presidential term limits. The legislation paves the way for a public vote on a new constitution. Under this proposal, President Félix Tshisekedi's previous terms in office would be discounted, essentially allowing him to seek a third term as if it were his first. A planned demonstration against the constitutional changes has now been postponed until July 22nd following a mediation led by Burundian President and African Union Chairperson, Évariste Ndayishimiye. Also, what does the growing trend of AI use mean for Africa's animation film? We speak to creative director and animator, Chief David Nyamyweya.Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Ayuba Iliya and Blessing Aderogba Senior Producer: Bella Twine Technical Producer: Jonathan Mwangi Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

All but two African teams have been eliminated from the World Cup. Out of the 10 African teams participating when the tournament kicked off in the US, Canada and Mexico, Egypt is at the round of 16, preparing to face Argentina. Morocco has advanced to the quarter-finals having defeated Canada. And it's the rainy season in West Africa, and recent flooding has caused more than 78 deaths in cities in Ghana, Ivory Coast and Togo. We explore the impact of climate disasters on mental health. Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Keikantse Shumba and Blessing Aderogba Senior Producer: Bella Twine Technical Producer: Jonathan Mwangi Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

Have you heard of solo-maxxing, or "by yourself maxxing"? It's a social media trend in which young people are embracing single life by opting out of dating and choosing to spend more time on their own. Instead, they're prioritising personal wealth, career growth and emotional independence. So, what's driving this trend? Is it a new kind of freedom, or are young people giving up on dating altogether? BBC Focus on Africa podcast host Nkechi Ogbonna spoke to Kenyan content creator Chantelle Petit and British Somali podcaster Ahmendur Hirad about their solo-maxxing journeys, the motivations behind their choices, and the challenges they've faced along the way.Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Keikantse Shuma, Fana Negash and Carolyne Kiambo Senior Producers: Bella Twine and Priya Sippy Technical Producers: David Kinyanjui Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

Rights group, Amnesty International, says it documented the use of ethnic slurs during attacks on non-Arab communities, which the organisation says points to ethnic persecution. The report says the crimes were committed by paramilitary group, Rapid Support Forces - RSF - during the group's offensive on the city of El Fasher in Sudan's North Darfur region last year. The report shows children were among the hardest hit and that hundreds of thousands have been displaced, many repeatedly exposed to attacks while fleeing, and others orphaned, abducted or forcibly recruited. And, what investments are urgently needed to unlock the full potential of Africa's entertainment industry? We speak to creative entertainment couple Darey Art Alade and Deola Art Alade.Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Keikantse Shumba, Ayuba Iliya and Blessing Aderogba Senior Producer: Bella Twine Technical Producer: David Kinyanjui Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

South Africa on June 30 saw protests across different parts of the country. The demonstrators called for undocumented migrants to return to their home countries. While several African countries have repatriated their nationals from the country, many more are believed to still be residing in South Africa. We look at what's next for them and the country. And, in Tanzania, an indigenous tribe called the Hadzabe, one of Africa's oldest hunter-gatherer communities are preserving their knowledge using a CyberTracker app. Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Keikantse Shumba, Blessing Aderogba and Ayuba Iliya Senior Producer: Bella Twine Technical Producer: Maxwell Onyango Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

As neighbouring Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo battle the Ebola outbreak, Tanzanian authorities say they're taking no chances. From screening travellers at border crossings to training frontline health workers, officials insist they're ready if the virus crosses into the country. But along the vast Lake Tanganyika shoreline, concerns remain over unofficial border crossings. And, at the 2026 World Cup, only eight of the 48 teams have squads made up entirely of home-born players. We explore how migration, identity and family ties are reshaping international football.Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Keikantse Shumba, Blessing Aderogba and Ayuba Iliya Senior Producer: Bella Twine Technical Producer: David Kinyanjui Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

Tuesday, June 30, is the unofficial deadline set by anti-immigrant protestors for unregistered African nationals to leave South Africa. March and March movement, a group opposed to illegal migration, is expected to stage what they call “a national shutdown” following its demand for all undocumented foreigners to leave the country. Ahead of the nationwide protests, we hear from African nationals at a temporary camp in Durban waiting to be repatriated to their home countries. Also, Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso announce plans for a regional news agency. We look into what the move means for information control and accountability. Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Keikantse Shumba, Blessing Aderogba and Ayuba Illya Senior Producer: Bella Twine Technical Producer: David Kinyanjui Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

June 25 marks a turning point in Kenya’s history. What started in 2024 as youth-led protests against the Finance Bill grew into nationwide demonstrations. Led largely by Gen Z, protesters demanded justice for the fallen, an end to corruption, and real economic change. More than 60 lives were lost in the historic anti-tax protests.In this episode we sit down with BBC reporters Akisa Wandera and Thomas Mukhwana. They break down why this leaderless youth movement refuses to back down and what this means for the future of Kenya.Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Fana Negash, Bella Twine, and Daniel Dadzie Senior Producers: Keikantse Shumba, Rhoda Odhiambo, and Carolyne Jotham Technical Producer: Herbert Masua Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

The United Nations has warned that nearly three million children could contract HIV by 2040, with more than half at risk of dying from AIDS-related illnesses if prevention and treatment efforts are not significantly expanded. The agency says the overwhelming majority of these infections are expected to occur in sub-Saharan Africa, where young people remain disproportionately affected by the epidemic. Amid these concerns, a major scientific breakthrough is offering new hope. Lenacapavir, a long-acting HIV prevention injection administered just twice a year, is being hailed as a potential game-changer, particularly for young people and others who struggle to adhere to daily prevention pills. In United States, Minnesota , the fentanyl epidemic continues to devastate families and communities, with overdose deaths leaving a lasting toll.Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Blessing Aderogba Technical Producer: Herbert Masua Senior Producer: Keikantse Shumba Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

Police in South Africa have assured the safety of migrants and local businesses as civic organisations including the March and March anti-migrant group intensify calls for foreigners to leave. This precedes heightened tensions towards a June 30 deadline declared by the groups for migrants to leave the country. Meanwhile in Kuwait, the fate of domestic workers mainly from some African countries remains unknown as authorities introduce new labour laws preventing the recruitment of domestic staff from over twenty countries including Kenya, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers:  Ayuba Iliya Technical Producer:  Herbert Masua Senior Producer: Keikantse Shumba Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

Niger has set strict conditions for reopening its border with Benin closed since the July 2023 military takeover. Among them are a new defence agreement, greater transparency over foreign military activities near the border, and the creation of a joint intelligence unit. The conditions were outlined during talks in Cotonou, Benin's commercial capital between a Niger delegation led by Maj Gen Mohamed Toumba, a member of the ruling military junta, and Beninese officials.In The Gambia, the country is grappling with rising temperatures, coastal erosion, erratic rainfall, and growing pressure on communities that depend on agriculture and fisheries all due to climate changePresenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers:   Ayuba Iliya and Blessing Aderogba Technical Producer:  Herbert Masua Senior Producer: Keikantse Shumba Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

The UK's Keir Starmer has resigned as Prime Minister and Labour leader after weeks of mounting pressure over political missteps, a slowing economy and falling support for the governing party. We examine what his departure could mean for UK-Africa relations and the estimated three million Africans living in Britain.And, nearly 118 million people worldwide are forcibly displaced, and refugees in parts of Africa spend an average of 16 years in exile. We explore what's behind these prolonged displacements and hear one former refugee's remarkable journey.Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Victor Chege, Priya Sippy and Blessing Aderogba Technical Producer: Herbert Masua Senior Producer: Keikantse Shumba Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

She had set herself a deadline: if she reached 30 without finding a partner, she would freeze her eggs. Her name is Amarachi Amusi, a Nigerian influencer and entrepreneur. She is among a growing number of women across Africa turning to the lengthy and costly procedure of egg freezing as a way of preserving their chances of motherhood while they wait to find a life partner.Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Fana Negash and Carolyne Wanjiru Jotham Technical Producer: Davis Mwasaru Senior Producer: Basma El Atti Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

In eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where the Ebola outbreak continues to challenge communities, there is still reason for hope. Despite fear, violence and mistrust, many patients are surviving and recovering from the disease. In areas where treatment centres have been attacked and health workers threatened, every recovery offers a much-needed boost to families and communities struggling with the outbreak. We hear from the BBC’s Anne Soy who travelled to the DRC and has been following response teams in hotspots including Bunia, Rwampara and Mongbwalu. Also, we explain how Uganda's cryptocurrency ban has created an illegal network of digital transactions. Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Godwin Asediba and Bella Twine Technical Producer: Davis Mwasaru Senior Producer: Keikantse Shumba Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

Russia’s security presence in Africa may be entering a new chapter, with the Central African Republic at the heart of the story. Reports suggest Moscow is looking to replace private military operatives,Wagner Group with Africa Corps, a force overseen by Russia’s Defence Ministry. But the handover appears far from straightforward, raising questions about Russia’s influence across the continent, the future of its security partnerships, and what it all means for the Central African Republic.And in China, an online trend involving dark-skinned dolls known as Natasha Dolls, fuels discussion about racism and discrimination. Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Chiamaka Dike and Ayuba Iliya Technical Producer: Davis Mwasaru Senior Producer: Keikantse Shumba Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

Cape Verde's national football team, Blue Sharks, stunned 2010 champions Spain at their first ever World Cup match. From the stadium in Atlanta, to the streets of the archipelago's capital Praia, we hear what the tournament and the result means for fans. And BBC Africa Eye hears from some of the last surviving soldiers of the Nigerian Civil War, who recall what they went through during the three-year conflict that left an estimated 500,000 to 3 million people dead.Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producer: Godwin Asediba Technical Producer: Davis Mwasaru Senior Producers: Blessing Aderogba and Keikantse Shumba Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues across the United States, Canada and Mexico, we look at the rise of hate-watching across parts of the continent. The trend was especially visible when Mexico faced South Africa at the opening game last week. Some African fans, especially on social media, openly backed Mexico against Bafana Bafana citing the recent xenophobic attacks and anti-immigration sentiments in South Africa. We explain what hate-watching is and how off-pitch tensions shape fan loyalties.And a new study is aiming to provide medical insights into treating kidney disease in West Africa. Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Bella Twine, Godwin Asediba and Ayuba Iliya Technical Producer: Davis Mwasaru Senior Producer: Blessing Aderogba Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

You may have heard of the manosphere - but what about the femosphere? It's a growing online community of female influencers encouraging women to give up on gender equality, approach relationships strategically and seek financial benefits from men, often in the name of empowerment. While researchers say there's no evidence it's radicalising followers like the manosphere, there are concerns about its impact on young women and modern relationships. Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Basma El Atti and Fana Negash Technical Producer: Maxwell Onyango Senior Producer: Priya Sippy and Carolyne Kiambo Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

Africa's football spirit meets the 2026 World Cup buzz, controversy, and opportunities. The tournament is a landmark moment for African football, coming four years after Morocco became the first African team to reach a World Cup semi-final at the Qatar edition in 2022. But even before the games begin, the tournament has been shrouded in controversy after the US denied Somali referee Omar Artan entry into the country. Omar was one of six referees from Africa appointed by FIFA for this year's World Cup. We speak to former Ghana international player Jonathan Mensah and former Ugandan international women's footballer, Jean Manayega Sseninder to unpack the opportunity for the 10 African competitors in the tournament. And, a remote Kenyan community embarks on a mission to empower young girls with vocational skills. Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Godwin Asediba and Blessing Aderogba Technical Producer: Maxwell Onyango Senior Producer: Keikantse Shumba Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

There has been continued violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo in recent months as rebel groups and armed forces wrestle for territorial control. DR Congo's North and South Kivu provinces have been the epicentre of the ongoing Ebola outbreak, along with Ituri Province where more than 560 cases of the virus have been reported. Parts of these eastern areas are under the control of rebel group M23, whose clashes with government forces have brought additional difficulties in dealing with the virus. We hear from a humanitarian worker in Goma, eastern DRC. Also, are AI assistants increasingly leaning towards established gender stereotypes in their responses and interactions?Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Bella Twine, Victor Chege and Blessing Aderogba Technical Producer: Maxwell Onyango Senior Producer: Keikantse Shumba Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

At least 360 abductees were rescued by the Nigerian army from an enclave linked to a terrorist group in northeastern Borno State. Most of them being women and children. While the Nigerian Army says the rescue followed weeks of planning and intelligence-led operations that achieved "complete tactical surprise," overwhelming the terrorists and forcing them to abandon their positions and flee into the surrounding mountainous terrain, a different account has emerged. A local group, the Borno South Youth Alliance (BOSAYA) says that it facilitated the unconditional release of the abductees and had been in contact with the militants, while online conversations speculate negotiations and possible ransom. We hear from a security expert. And we speak to Sabine Nkusi who lived through the Rwandan genocide on her commitment to supporting survivors of sexual and gender-based violence. Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Ayuba Iliya and Blessing Aderogba Technical Producer: Maxwell Onyango Senior Producer: Keikantse Shumba Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

Over 3,000 African fighters are involved with the Russian army as claimed by Ukrainian authorities. Many of them say they have been misled or coerced into fighting by illegal recruitment agencies promising a good job and salary in Russia. We speak to the BBC's Sammy Awami who gained access to a prisoner of war facility in western Ukraine, and spoke to some of the young men trapped there. And we hear about the frustrations of African fans hoping to travel to the US for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Godwin Asediba, Ayuba Iliya and Blessing Aderogba Technical Producer: Maxwell Onyango Senior Producer: Keikantse Shumba Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

PCOS affects an estimated 170 million women worldwide during their reproductive years yet as many as 70% of those affected remain undiagnosed, according the World Health Organization. Experts hope that will change following the condition’s recent renaming to Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS), a term they say better reflects its impact on the whole body, not just the ovaries. So what is it like to live with the condition?We spoke to 35-year-old Bianca Chenai from Zimbabwe, and 25-year-old Ghanaian, Juliana Naa Dede who have been living with PMOS from a young age. Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Fana Negash and Basma El Atti Technical Producer: David Nzau Senior Producer: Priya Sippy and Carolyne Kiambo Jotham Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

Foreign nationals in South Africa are facing renewed fears following the latest wave of xenophobic attacks, which have reportedly killed nine Mozambican nationals. Ghana and Mozambique have begun evacuating some of their citizens, while other countries are considering similar moves. We hear from those fleeing the tensions and how they are rebuilding life in their home countries. Then, we head to Lagos to meet acclaimed Nigerian musician and producer Cobhams Asuquo. Born visually impaired, he taught himself to play the piano and went on to help shape the sound of modern African music. BBC Outlook's Tommy Dixon meets him to discuss his journey, his music, and navigating life without sight.Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers:Godwin Asediba, Bella Twine and Blessing Aderogba Technical Producer: David Nzau Senior Producer: Keikantse Shumba Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

Teachers in Nigeria's Oyo, Borno and Lagos states protest kidnappings of teachers and learners. And how poor sanitation puts mothers at risk of maternal sepsis in Zambia.

Ghana’s President John Mahama has said the recently passed anti-LGBTQ+ bill will undergo a review by the Attorney General and legal advisers at the presidency before he decides to sign it into law. The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill, 2025, was approved by parliament last Friday. The legislation proposes a three-year prison sentence for same-sex relations and up to five years imprisonment for promoting LGBTQ+ activities. The law has attracted mixed reaction within the country. This is not the first time Ghana has come up with such a proposal. A previous bill approved in 2024 recommended stricter punishment but was never signed into law. Also, we hear about a controversial multi-million dollar sports event allowing participating athletes to use performance enhancing drugs, usually banned in international competitions. Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producer: Bella Twine, Priya Sippy and Ayuba lliya Technical producer: David Nzau Senior Ppoducer: Keikantse Shumba Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

Protests erupted on June 1 near a military airfield in Central Kenya where the US government is planning to establish an Ebola quarantine centre for American citizens. Construction on the site was paused last week by a Kenyan court pending a hearing into a lawsuit lodged by campaigners to block the move. However local media has reported that two US military aircraft have already delivered medical personnel and equipment to the base. The proposed quarantine facility has proven controversial with medics and the public in Kenya opposing it. Also, Nigerian Singer, Tiwa Savage speaks about legacy and her role in helping women find their space in technical and executive roles in the music industry. Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Bella Twine and Ayuba lliya Technical Producer: David Nzau Senior Producer: Keikantse Shumba Editors: Charles Gitonga and Maryam Abdalla

For many women, having larger breasts may be down to genetics. But for some, breast growth is extreme, painful and life-altering. The condition is called 'gigantomastia'. A condition that causes excessive breast tissue growth, leading to chronic pain, mobility challenges, and emotional distress.Focus on Africa podcast host Nkechi Ogbonna speaks to 25-year-old South African content creator Michelle Sekwena, who has been sharing her journey with gigantomastia and her experience undergoing breast reduction surgery.Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Fana Negash, Basma El Atti Technical Producer: Jonathan Mwangi Senior Producer: Carolyne Kiambo Jotham Editors: Priya Sippy and Maryam Abdalla

BBC Global Disinformation reporter Jacqui Wakefield has spent a year examining the rise of two of the most influential manosphere figures. In Kenya, she met Andrew Kibe who has millions of followers online and offline. We hear how these individuals have built massive online audiences and the lucrative business behind it all. And a look at how the political fallout between Senegal's former Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko and President Bassirou Diomaye Faye means for the West African country. Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Bella Twine, Keikantse Shumba, Blessing Aderogba and Helen Oyibo Senior Producer: Charles Gitonga Technical Producer: Jonathan Mwangi Editors: Priya Sippy and Maryam Abdalla

Ethiopia is scheduled to hold its general election on June 1. Millions of voters will be electing members of the national parliament and leaders of the regional councils fronted by 23 political parties. This election happens amid political and security uncertainties in the populous regions of Oromia and Amhara, while there will be no voting in the northern Tigray region. With Ethiopia currently ranked 148th out of 180 countries on the World Press Freedom Index, we look at what's it like for journalists covering the election. And in Uganda, we hear how therapy dogs are helping survivors of abuse and trauma. Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Keikantse Shumba, Basma El Atti, Carolyne Kiambo and Ayuba Iliya Senior Producer: Charles Gitonga Technical Producer: Jonathan Mwangi Editors: Priya Sippy and Maryam Abdalla

The World Health Organisations says Ebola is spreading faster than originally thought and has declared a public health emergency of international concern. Ebola has also been reported in DR Congo's North and South Kivu provinces, as well as in neighbouring Uganda, where there have been seven confirmed cases. In the last week, there have been incidents where angry crowds attempted to reclaim bodies of loved ones from Ebola treatment centres in Mongwalu and Rwampara. We take a look at how burial traditions are being impacted by the virus and what the recommended procedures look like. Also, Burkina Faso's livestock export ban has a direct impact on Eid celebrations in Ivory Coast. What are the alternatives?Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Bella Twine and Ayuba Iliya Senior Producer: Charles Gitonga Technical producer: Jonathan Mwangi Editors: Priya Sippy and Maryam Abdalla

May 25 is Africa Day, observed annually to commemorate the founding of the Organisation of African Unity - now known as the African Union (AU). We spoke to three Africans, a generation X, a millennial and a Gen Z about the dreams and aspirations Africans today. And South African activists on the Gaza bound Global Sumud Flotilla have returned home. The activists were on board the flotilla taking aid to Gaza before being intercepted and detailed by Israeli soldiers. We heard from some of them, who claimed that Israeli security forces subjected them to torture but Israel denies this. Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Keikantse Shumba, Basma El Atti and Blessing Aderogba Senior Producer: Charles Gitonga Technical producer: Jonathan Mwangi Editors: Priya Sippy and Maryam Abdalla

About twenty-five years ago, Africa had no dollar billionaires. Today, there are 23. Their combined wealth has grown to more than 100 billion US dollars. At the same time, many people on the continent are living in poverty, and their number has also grown. Focus on Africa Podcast host Charles Gitonga has been speaking to the youngest billionaire in Africa, Tanzanian businessman and philanthropist Mohammed Dewji, about how he made his billions and the responsibility of billionaires to reduce the widening inequality gap. Presenter: Charles Gitonga Producers: Fana Negash, Basma El Atti Technical Producer: David Kinyanjui Senior Producer:Carolyne Kiambo Jotham Editors: Priya Sippy and Maryam Abdalla

In Mali, separatist group, Azawad Liberation Front have renewed attacks in the northern part of the country with the aim of creating an independent Tuareg state. We hear from a Sahel security expert on the origins of the group, and their recent alliance with Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) - al-Qaeda's armed affiliate in West Africa and the Sahel.And, some lawmakers in Ghana are considering a bill to introduce compulsory DNA testing to combat the increase in paternity fraud cases in the country.Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Keikantse Shumba, Bella Twine, Blessing Aderogba and Godwin Asediba Technical Producer: David Kinyanjui Senior Producer: Charles Gitonga Editors: Priya Sippy and Maryam Abdalla

After 22 years, Arsenal has won another English Premier League title. The team is one of the most popular European football clubs in Africa, and had been running a multi-million sponsorship deal with the government of Rwanda which concluded at the end of the 2025–26 season. We speak to fans across the continent to hear what this win means for them. And with rising fuel prices in most parts of the world due to the Middle East conflict, we get insight into how fuel prices are determined in some African countries. Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Keikantse Shumba, Bella Twine, Blessing Aderogba and Rukia Bulle Technical Producer: David Kinyanjui Senior Producer: Charles Gitonga Editors: Priya Sippy and Maryam Abdalla

The Democratic Republic of Congo says the death toll linked to its latest Ebola outbreak has risen to 131, with 513 suspected contacts now being monitored across six health zones, as the government races to contain the spread of the Bundibugyo variant of the virus. And, with global fuel supply shortages, there are renewed calls for African investments in energy and infrastructure. We speak to Nigerian investor, Tony Elumelu. Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Ayuba Iliya, Keikantse Shumba, Bella Twine and Rukia Bulle Technical Producer: David Kinyanjui Senior Producer: Charles Gitonga Editors: Priya Sippy and Maryam Abdalla

Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's four-year tenure came to an end on May 15th. However, a contentious constitutional amendment has extended it by a year. The country had failed to hold elections over controversy regarding electoral reforms. We hear how Somalia got here, and what is next for the country. Also, Zimbabwe plans to return commercial farms to white farmers more than two decades after it was seized. Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Keikantse Shumba, Bella Twine and Rukia Bulle Technical Producer: David Kinyanjui Senior Producer: Charles Gitonga Editors: Priya Sippy and Maryam Abdalla

Africa’s booming fashion industry took centre stage at the 2026 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, where bold African designs dominated online conversations and red-carpet highlights.Host Nkechi Ogbonna speaks with Ghanaian fashion icon Nana Akua Addo and Nigerian designer Mohammed Abbas about the rise of African luxury fashion, the stories behind their headline-making looks, and how African creativity is redefining global style.Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Fana Negash, Basma El Atti and Godwin Asediba Technical Producer: Herbert Masua Senior Producer: Carolyne Kiambo Jotham Editors: Priya Sippy and Maryam Abdalla

A colorful Beijing, filled with grand celebration has welcomed President Trump who is on a two day visit to the Asian country. At the height of the trade war in 2025, the two countries had levied tariffs that crossed 100% on each other. A fragile truce followed but one of the main questions hanging over this visit is whether that will last, and what deal would take its place? In the midst of all of this, China has extended a trade deal to 53 African countries. How will this deal hold? Plus, two young Nigerians are debating whether a mandatory youth service is still relevant to the country's youth. Mayowa Alawode, a preacher and content creator, and Oluwatobi Afolabi, Managing Editor at OkayAfrica join Charles Gitonga on Focus on Africa. Presenter: Charles Gitonga Producers: Keikantse Shumba, Rukia Bulle, Makouchi Okafor, Chiamaka Dike and Blessing Aderogba Technical Producer: Herbert Masua Senior Producer: Bella Twine Editors: Priya Sippy and Maryam Abdalla

In South Africa, a speech from the country's President Cyril Ramaphosa firmly saying he will not resign, is trending. A Constitutional Court ruling last week found that parliament acted unconstitutionally when it voted against establishing an impeachment inquiry against Ramaphosa regarding the Phala Phala report in 2022, where thousands of dollars were stolen from furniture at his game farm. And to Lesotho, we speak to an independent writer Tseliso Monaheng about the history of Famo music and why it is tied to a history of violence in the country. Presenter: Charles Gitonga Producers: Keikantse Shumba, Mpho Lakaje and Blessing Aderogba Technical Producer: Herbert Masua Senior Producer: Bella Twine Editors: Priya Sippy and Maryam Abdalla

Protestors have been arrested in Nairobi while objecting the Africa-France event and France-Africa relations, calling it rebranded "imperialism". Macron has announced investments worth $27bn (£20bn) in Africa in areas such as energy transition, digital and AI, the maritime economy and agriculture. The summit is aimed at broadening Paris's partnerships and making investment deals on the continent against a backdrop of rising anti-French sentiment and diminishing power in its former colonies, especially in West Africa.And, we turn to a not-so new but revived sound of music by South-African musician Zawadi Yamungu, who is creating music that feels both spiritual and contemporary, drawing on themes of ancestry, identity and healing.Presenter: Charles Gitonga Producers: Rukia Bulle, Godwin Asediba and Blessing Aderogba Technical Producer: Herbert Masua Senior Producer: Bella Twine Editors: Priya Sippy and Maryam Abdalla

The president of Botswana Duma Boko in an exclusive conversation with the BBC has shared his view about the state of diplomatic ties between African countries and France, as the "Africa Forward" summit kicks off in Nairobi. And, around the world, about 100,000 seabirds are unintentionally killed each year by fishing gear, including 10,000 in South Africa. In response, the conservation charity, BirdLife set up an Albatross Task Force, and by putting bird-scaring lines on fishing boats, they’ve managed to cut the number of albatrosses accidentally killed by 90 percent. Presenter: Charles Gitonga Producers: Keikantse Shumba and Blessing Aderogba Technical Producer: Herbert Masua Senior Producer: Bella Twine Editors: Priya Sippy and Maryam Abdalla

We thought you might enjoy listening to the latest season of the BBC’s global investigations podcast World of Secrets: Searching for Soldier Dad. In this first episode of the season, we meet Cathy. Cathy is 10 years old when she starts asking questions. Why don’t I have a father? The secret her mum Maggie is forced to reveal changes everything. Years later, when lawyers and a geneticist turn up in their hometown in Kenya to take DNA samples, Maggie hopes they can help her finally learn the truth. In this investigation, we follow as a team of lawyers and a leading geneticist travel to Kenya to help locate the British soldiers who fathered children then vanished. We witness the groundbreaking legal and scientific detective work used to find the missing dads.    What’s at stake is more than the reputation of the British army and the UK’s post-colonial legacy. The mixed-heritage children have in some cases been ostracised by their communities and denied a chance of British citizenship since birth – something which could transform their lives. Searching for Soldier Dad is a BBC Long Form Audio production for the BBC World Service. Listen to the full series, wherever you get your BBC podcasts. Please note, the image being used is for illustrative purposes only and the child depicted is a model. Presenter: Ivana Davidovic Series Producer: Josephine Casserly Sound design: Tom Brignell Executive Producer: Matt Willis Commissioning Senior Producers: Katy Davis and Anne Dixey Commissioning Editor: Jon Manel

We speak to South African influencer and software developer Masheane Sefuthi, who has been on a journey to ‘whiten’ his skin; public health advocate Amira Adawe, who has been campaigning against these harmful products; and Kenyan media personality Kush Tracey, who has spoken about reversing skin bleaching after years of struggling with it.Presenter: Charles Gitonga Producers: Fana Negash, Basma El Atti and Layla Mahmood Technical Producer: Maxwell Onyango Senior Producer: Carolyne Kiambo Jotham Editors: Priya Sippy and Maryam Abdalla

For a while now, Sudan's military government has been accusing Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates of working with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in the Sudan war that entered its fourth year in April. Both the UAE and Addis Ababa have refuted that claim. An investigation by the Reuters news agency in January showed the presence of a secret training camp in Ethiopia allegedly used to train thousands of RSF fighters. We speak to a Horn of Africa expert.Also, bicycles are fading away in many parts of urban Nigeria, but in the northeastern rural community of Mishara, they remain a symbol of love and commitment to marriage.Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Bella Twine and Ayuba Iliya Technical Producer: Maxwell Onyango Senior Producer: Charles Gitonga Editors: Priyanka Sippy and Maryam Abdalla

As medical experts work to contain the spread of hantavirus on board a stranded cruise ship in the Atlantic ocean, we hear from a representative of the World Health Organisation in Cape Verde. What's hantavirus, how does it spread and what happens to those on board the MV Hondius luxury cruise liner? Also, seven years after the enactment of the law promoting inclusion for persons living with disability in Nigeria, advocates say implementation remains weak.Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Rukia Bulle, Bella Twine and Ayuba Iliya Technical Producer: Maxwell Onyango Senior Producer: Charles Gitonga Editors: Priyanka Sippy and Maryam Abdalla

Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te has finally visited Eswatini where his arrival had been expected since April. The state visit was cancelled last minute, and Taiwan blames China - saying Beijing applied pressure on African countries not to allow the plane carrying President Ching-te to use their airspace on the way to the Kingdom of Eswatini. We look at the significance of this visit and Taiwan's diplomatic ties to the Southern Africa kingdom.Also, we have a fire chat with Ghanian musician Stonebwoy, whose Accra-famous music festival known as BHIM is going global, headlining at the OVO Wembley Arena in London this August.Presenter : Charles Gitonga Producer: Rukia Bulle, Blessing Aderogba and Mark Wilberforce Technical Producer: Maxwell Onyango Senior Producer: Bella Twine Editors: Priyanka Sippy and Maryam Abdalla