Under the Baobab

Supporters say President Paul Biya stabilized Cameroon. Critics say he's stalled democracy amid long festering armed conflict and economic stagnation. So how does Cameroon move forward? Political scientist and Biya's ex-Minister of Forestry and Wildlife Elvis Ngolle Ngolle joins Mimi Mefo and George Okachi Under The Baobab.

For decades, billions of dollars in development aid have flowed into Africa — to fight poverty, reduce hunger, and create opportunity. Is foreign aid helping Africa… or quietly keeping it dependent?

Since rejoining the African Union in 2017, Morocco has moved quickly to expand its economic footprint across the continent. As Morocco deepens its influence, some African partners question who truly benefits and on whose terms. Is Rabat building bridges for Africa, or redrawing the balance of power in its own favor?

Western governments often argue that today's generations can't be held responsible for the crimes of slavery. But Ghana is challenging that narrative. After spearheading a historic UN resolution that formally recognized the transatlantic slave trade as "the gravest crime against humanity," Accra is now pushing for reparations, but can restorative justice truly work? Let's explore Under the Baobab.

Humanitarian organizations like the Red Cross already deliver aid, medical assistance and some protection to civilians caught in war zones found in Sudan and the DRC. But can their efforts and neutrality be a path to ending fighting?

A controversial constitutional amendment is shaking Zimbabwe to its core. Tensions are rising and turning dangerous. Critics like Prof. Madhuku narrowly survived an attack at a political meeting, calling it a chilling sign that the country's democracy may be at its lowest point in years.

AfCFTA was hailed as Africa's 'economic independence moment,' meant to unite 1.3 billion people, boost industry, create jobs, and reduce reliance on external powers. Six years on, intra‑African trade remains low, borders remain difficult to cross, and many economies still export raw materials. What has the AfCFTA delivered — and where has progress stalled?

Nigeria is racing against a growing hunger emergency as flooding and other natural disasters damage crops and disrupt food supplies. In this episode of Under the Baobab, we speak to Nigeria's Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs, Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu, about the government's response.

Military takeovers in West Africa have shaken the region. Sierra Leone's Maada Bio is stepping into a diplomatic role, but rising influence abroad raises tough questions at home.

Under a controversial third-country arrangement, non-Ghanaians have arrived in Accra — sparking legal battles and constitutional questions. Is Ghana defending sovereignty, or reshaping its role in global migration policy?

President Yoweri Museveni was declared the winner of the presidential election again, but many Ugandans are asking this was a true democratic choice, or a tightly controlled process designed to deliver a familiar result? Two opposing sides meet Under the Baobab to debate.

Europe says it's ready to listen again. But after years of broken partnerships and growing anti-Western sentiment, can the EU's new approach to the Sahel truly protect civilians and restore stability?

Cameroon looks calm — but the disputed election has shaken citizen's faith in the electoral system. Tomaino Ndam Njoya, the only female presidential candidate, joins us Under the Baobab, explains why there were no winners in Cameroon's election, and reveals surprising ways Cameroon's political elite can try to rebuild trust with the electorate.

In this special edition of Under the Baobab, we uncover why African nations suffer most while contributing least, and ask: where is the money?

South Africa is hosting the continent’s first G20 summit, with debt justice high on the agenda. But what does the US risk by potentiall skipping this historic meeting? Zane Dangor, South Africa’s G20 chief negotiator, joins Under The Baobab to unpack the stakes.

President Julius Maada Bio's government is celebrating the second anniversary of Feed Salone — a multi-million-dollar initiative — aimed at making Sierra Leone food secure. On the other hand, some Sierra Leoneans argue that the project is only benefiting a few. Economic and Planning Minister, Kenyeh Barlay, sits down Under The Baobab to explain the disparities.

His exit from the United Democratic Party (UDP) and the launch of a new political movement raise questions about his loyalty, transparency, and leadership. But what do Gambians really think of Talib Bensouda—can he deliver solutions to the country’s pressing problems?

As Africa pushes toward deeper economic integration, the role of regional blocs like COMESA is under renewed scrutiny. Once hailed as a cornerstone for trade and investment across Eastern and Southern Africa, COMESA now faces the challenge of staying relevant in a rapidly digitizing and competitive global economy.

Nigeria’s human rights activist Omoyele Sowore remains a relentless thorn in the side of the authorities. He’s faced multiple arrests and harsh crackdowns but still vows to confront Nigeria’s political elite, especially the current President Bola Tinubu. But is his crusade truly for the people, or his political ambition?

Bobi Wine's 2021 presidential run shook Uganda's political landscape. Though long-time leader Yoweri Museveni retained power, Wine's campaign sparked massive youth engagement and online mobilization. But can he do it again? And will Ugandans rally behind him this time?

After 43 years in power, President Paul Biya faces his greatest challenge yet: two former ministers breaking ranks to contest what could be Cameroon's most pivotal election. As one of the world's oldest leaders, does Biya have anything new to offer—or is his era finally ending? Jean De Dieu Momo, a staunch Biya loyalist and Minister Delegate to the defense ministry, says no.

"I am the one capable of leading Cameroonians successfully in this unprecedented fight" - a bold claim from Issa Tchiroma Bakari, a former ally-turned-opponent of Cameroon's President Paul Biya. But can this longtime insider truly be the change the nation is desperate for?

Once a grassroots movement, Operation Dudula is now a political party on the rise in South Africa — promising to “fish out undocumented migrants.” But their reality is raids on migrant shops, hospital blockades, and violence that shock the continent. In Nelson Mandela’s rainbow nation of unity, is Operation Dudula defending South Africans — or fueling a dangerous divide among Africans?

Nigeria's 2023 election outcome left many disappointed, but will 2027 be any different? In this episode of The Baobab, Senator Nenadi Usman joins us to talk rigged votes, rising hope, and why she’s never run for president. But we ask, is Nigerias Labour ready to lead and are women finally being seen as serious contenders?

Eight years after Mugabe’s fall, Mnangagwa’s Zimbabwe is haunted by repression, fear, and division. Is the opposition failing, or is the ruling party too ruthless to be challenged?

With Uganda's 2026 elections approaching, President Museveni is confident of securing another term. He promises stability and a strong vision for the East African country. But are Museveni's decades in power a legacy or the making of a monarchy?

The Nigerian army claims the country is safer, but many citizens feel less secure than ever. With armed groups active in northern and southern states, and civilians caught in the crossfire, how do the authorities distinguish between separatists and terrorists? And how does the military plan to control them? Nigeria's army spokesman Tukur Gusau joins us Under The Baobab.

Africa is abundant in resources — but who is truly benefiting from them? In this episode of Under the Baobab, NJ Ayuk doesn't hold back. From oil politics to private power, we ask: Is the continent’s wealth building nations or just billionaires?

Ghana's president John Mahama says his government is fighting corruption, but critics say it's a witch hunt targeting rivals. Is this real reform — or political spin?

Once seen as a reformer, President Adama Barrow now faces public backlash over corruption, unfulfilled promises, and the controversial sale of former President Yahya Jammeh's assets. What do Gambians think of Barrow's record on reforms? Gambia's Minister of Information, Ismaila Ceesay, joins Under the Baobab.

The future of Tanzania's main opposition party, CHADEMA, is in crisis after being barred from the October 2025 election — and from all by-elections until 2030. Is this a calculated move by President Samia Suluhu to silence dissent, or is CHADEMA crumbling under the weight of its own internal divisions?

Dr. Daniel Bwala, once the spokesperson for Atiku Abubakar during Nigeria’s 2023 presidential race, now serves as a key spokesperson for President Bola Tinubu. In this episode of Under the Baobab, Bwala explains why he believes Tinubu is one of the most capable leader on the global stage — and the right person to drive Nigeria’s economic transformation.

She once ran for president, defied the political establishment, and became a rare female voice on Cameroon’s national stage. But today, Kah Walla is unusually quiet. Is she walking away from politics — or preparing her boldest move yet? She joins us "Under The Baobab."

Under the Baobab is DW's weekly vodcast where Africa’s biggest issues meet real talk, sharp minds, and bold solutions.