Analysis, Background Information and more about the stories making headlines – Mondays to Fridays on Africalink.

Kenya plans to reopen key border crossings with Somalia 15 years after attacks blamed on Al-Shabab extremists forced its closure. The move that is intended to boost trade and reunite families has sparked security concerns.

Nearly 1,000 citizens of Kenya have reportedly been lured to fight for Russia in Ukraine. Now, their families are pressing the government to intervene while it pushes Moscow for answers. But how did so many young job seekers end up on the frontlines of a foreign war? Eddy Micah Jr speaks with Dr. Edgar Githua, an international relations expert, and DW correspondent in Nairobi, Felix Maringa.

Zimbabweans are marrying more — yet also divorcing faster. We unpack why nearly 4,000 couples filed for divorce in 2025, and what shifting gender roles, migration, and digital life reveal about the future of relationships. AfricaLink host Adwoa Domena speaks to Reverend Isaac Soda, a family and marriage counselor, and DW's Privilege Musvanhiri in Harare.

African leaders at the annual AU summit in Addis Ababa, discussed escalating conflicts in the Horn of Africa, Great Lakes region, the Sahel, and political tensions in Cameroon and South Sudan. Water security was named the theme of 2026. Host Eddy Micah Jnr speaks with DW's Eskinder Azmatch in Ethiopia, and Moussa Soumahoro, a researcher at the Institute for Security Studies, for insights.

Over 160 days, former Ghanaian MP Ras Mubarak traveled overland across 31 African countries, covering 40,000 kilometers. He was campaigning for a visa-free Africa and to push African leaders to embrace continental free movement under the African Union's Agenda 2063. Hosts Eddy Micah Jr and Adwoa Tenkoramaa Domena talk to Ras Mubarak about his journey and what red-tape remains.

South Africans heard this year's State of the Nation Address (SONA) amid deepening water shortages, a stagnating economy, and rising political tension. Seeking to calm frustration and uncertainty, President Cyril Ramaphosa struck an optimistic tone. AfricaLink host Adwoa Domena speaks to political analyst Ntsikelelo Breakfast and DW's Thuso Khumalo to unpack whether the president succeeded.

Artificial Intelligence is entering the radio studio — but what does that mean for trust, authenticity, and the future of broadcasting? With synthetic voices becoming harder to distinguish from real presenters, many listeners are asking how they can trust what they hear. Adwoa Tenkoramaa Domena speaks with DW's Editorial AI Manager Jasper Steinlein in Berlin and DW reporter Eric Mawuena in Accra.

South Africa recently signed a framework economic partnership agreement with Beijing. It comes as the US renewed AGOA for just one more year. Will South Africa stick with Washington or move toward China's expanding market? Adwoa Tenkoramaa Domena speaks with Dr Emmanuel Matambo, Research Director at the Centre for Africa-China Studies an DW's Thuso Khumalo in Johannesburg.

Nigeria faces one of its most turbulent security periods in recent years. From extremist violence to mass abductions and the killing of nearly 170 people in Kwara state, the country is struggling to contain a crisis that keeps worsening. Adwoa Tenkoramaa Domena speaks with security expert Fola Aina and DW's Ben Adam Shemang to unpack what it will take for Nigeria to restore security.

Zimbabwe has recorded single-digit inflation for the first time since the late 1980s, with official figures showing a drop to 4.1% in January 2026. Adwoa Tenkoramaa Domena speaks with economist Happiness Zengeni and DW's correspondent Privilege Musvanhiri in Harare to examine how this turnaround happened in a country known for its hyperinflation, and whether the gains would be short-lived.

A surge in paternity testing is catching Malawians off guard and raising fears of family rifts. Why are clinics urging more tests, and what does this trend mean for trust and modern relationships?

Africa has witnessed a troubling pattern: elections overshadowed by allegations of fraud, rising post-electoral violence, crackdowns on dissent, and leaders clinging to power for decades. Citizens and opposition movements cry foul while international observers warn of democratic backsliding. But are they doing enough?

Decades after his death, Fela Kuti has become the first African artist to earn a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. We look at why this posthumous recognition matters for his legacy and for African music.

A new survey spanning 101 countries shows growing interest for a citizen‑elected World Parliament, especially among youth and communities that feel left out of national politics. With support strongest in Sub‑Saharan Africa, is the world quietly warming to global democracy? Eddy Micah jr. speaks to Andreas Bummel, Executive Director of Democracy Without Borders and DW's Olisa Chukwuma in Lagos.

Weeks of torrential rains have battered Southern Africa, claiming more than 200 people and displacing over 400,000 across Mozambique, South Africa and Zimbabwe. As swollen rivers swept through communities, washing away homes, roads, and bridges, is there a way out? DW's Eddy Micah jr speaks with Jasper Knight, a climatologist at Witwatersrand University and DW correspondent Thuso Khumalo.

American YouTube streamer IShowSpeed has recently been making major waves on social media during his Africa tour. His visits to Nigeria and Ghana have fueled friendly rivalry, especially over food, lifestyle, and hospitality. Eddy Micah Jr. speaks to Ameyaw Debrah, an entertainment and lifestyle blogger and social media influencer and Olisa Chukwumah, DW's correspondent in Accra, Ghana.

Each year, hundreds of Gambians die attempting to reach Europe through irregular migration routes. Despite the risks — and repeated government interventions — the numbers continue to rise, especially among young people. Today on AfricaLink, host Adwoa Tenkoramaa Domena speaks with migration specialist Mustapha Sonko and DW's Aminata Sanyang to explore what's driving this dangerous journey.

Ghana's "Silencing the Guns" amnesty program has collected just 2,000 weapons — a tiny fraction of the estimated 1.2 million unregistered firearms circulating nationwide. AfricaLink host Adwoa Tenkoramaa Domena talks to security analyst Solomon Okai, and DW correspondent Maxwell Suuk, about why Ghana's government is doubling down, and whether the public trusts the initiative enough to participate.

Nigeria's healthcare system is under scrutiny following the death of writer Chimamanda Adichie's infant son. While the family alleges he was denied oxygen and improperly sedated, the hospital denies wrongdoing. DW's Adwoa Tenkoramaa Domena speaks with Dr Agbor Ebuta, Consultant Family Physician and Vice President Medical Initiative for Africa, and DW correspondent in Nigeria, Olisa Chukwumah.

Ghana's President John Dramani Mahama has marked one year in office after a historic political comeback. While economic indicators show signs of recovery, the opposition says major campaign promises remain unfulfilled. On this AfricaLink episode, host Adwoa Tenkoramaa Domena speaks with Dr. John Osae Kwapong of CDD-Ghana and DW correspondent Eric Mawuena Egbeta to assess the public perception.

AFCON 2025 ended in dramatic fashion with Senegal's 1-0 victory against Morocco. Fans and players were thrown into suspense by a late walkout by some Senegalese players and a missed penalty by top Moroccan scorer Brahim Diaz. On this AfricaLink podcast, host Adwoa Tenkoramaa Domena breaks down the chaos with sports analyst Peace Diane from Uganda and DW's Samson Omale in Nigeria.

Uganda's President Museveni was declared winner of the January 15 election. Opposition candidates, including Bobi Wine, say the election was far from free and fair. On this AfricaLink podcast, host Adwoa Tenkorama Domena speaks with DW's Frank Yiga in Kampala and MP Paul Omara to unpack what really happened on election day and what Museveni's seventh term could mean for Uganda's democratic future.

Israel's recognition of Somaliland is fueling protests in Somalia and straining regional diplomacy. Is this about sovereignty or a bigger strategic realignment in the Horn of Africa?

Nigeria is home to 7,200 millionaires and three billionaires — yet tens of millions live below the poverty line. Schools are underfunded, hospitals are overcrowded, and infrastructure is crumbling. As Nigeria's billionaires' fortunes grew significantly in 2025, the question is not just how much wealth Nigeria has — but who is paying to fix the country, and who is not.

Uganda's election has been marked by an internet blackout, delays, and heavy security as President Yoweri Museveni pushes to extend his 40-year grip on power.

The road to Uganda's election day is anything but calm. With political tensions rising, authorities shutting down internet access, and calls for restraint growing louder, the country is bracing for a decisive moment. On this AfricaLink Podcast, DW's Isaac Mugabi joins us from Kampala to unpack the power struggles, public anxiety, and hopes shaping Uganda's political landscape.

South Africa's ruling ANC has called the US attack on Venezuela an assault on democracy and a serious violation of international law. Opposition parties accuse Pretoria of hypocrisy and inconsistency. What do these divisions mean for South Africa and its place on the global stage?

Every January, millions promise to eat healthier, exercise more, or save money. Yet research shows most abandon these goals before February. On today's AfricaLink Podcast, host Eddy Micah Jr. speaks with DW's Eric Mawuena Egbeta and life coach Amma Ansah about the psychology behind goal-setting, why discipline often beats motivation, and how small process-based habits can make change stick.

Many Ugandans say President Yoweri Museveni would not win a free and fair election outright. But after four decades in power, uncertainty over electoral credibility, economic growth, and the potential for a transfer of power, remains bigger than ever. Lawyer and rights advocate Miria Matembe joins us Under the Baobab to dissect why the 2026 Ugandan general election matters more than ever.

As Uganda's 2026 elections near, activists and lawyers fight to defend human rights amid growing pressure. How are civil society groups holding the line?

A new Sahel alliance takes on insurgent violence. Will Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso's joint force change the game or fall short?

Nigeria is gearing up for a major economic shift — one built on innovation, investment, and opportunity. Will Nigeria's 2026 agenda reshape industries, empower youth, and spark new growth?

Uganda has approved a controversial loan of UGX 9 trillion ($2.5 billion), sparking concerns over the country's soaring public debt. Analysts fear citizens may bear the brunt through cuts in essential services and mounting economic pressure.

A new player is reshaping the crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo — and it's not who most people are watching. Burundi's cooperation with the government is deepening while global attention focuses on the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group fighting Kinshasa. Adwoa Tenkoramaa Domena talks to analyst Daniel van Dalen and DW's Alex Ngarambe.

It's now synonymous with music, festivals, and non-stop year-end celebrations. But beyond the glitter, Ghana and Nigeria are competing for bragging rights, tourism revenue, and cultural influence. AfricaLink host Adwoa Tenkoramaa Domena talks to Ghanaian entertainment analyst Erskine Whyte, and DW's Nigeria correspondent Abiodun Jamiu to explore what pulls the diaspora back home to party.

Just after Christmas, the United States targeted ISIS-linked militants in northwest Nigeria. Coordinated with Abuja, the airstrikes signal a major shift in Nigeria's approach to foreign military involvement. AfricaLink host Chinaza Samuel speaks with DW's Ben Adam Shemang and analyst Zuwaqhu Bonat to unpack what happened, and how this event sets the tone for Nigeria's fight against terror.

Africa's marquee football tournament has kicked off in Morocco, with all the stars and dazzling talent in. But there have been few goals, some dull matches and empty seats. Is AFCON delivering on its promise, or is there just too much football on tap? Adwoa Tenkoramaa Domena speaks with African football analyst Ayomide Oguntimehin, and DW correspondent Samson Omale.

Across Africa, Christmas has long been a cherished time for families to return home, reconnect, share joy, and mend broken bonds. It's a season of laughter, love, and togetherness. Yet, for those seen as the “well-off” in the family, the festivities can come up with heavy financial expectations. So, has the way we celebrate Christmas evolved in your country?

Zimbabwe will require foreign-owned businesses in some sectors to transfer majority control to Zimbabwean citizens within three years. It aims to uplift local enterprises, but critics say it will drive away foreign investment. AfricaLink host Adwoa Tenkoramaa Domena talks to economist Takudzwa Kudenga and DW correspondent Privilege Musvanhiri on how this policy may sink or save Zimbabwe's economy.

According to Amnesty International, there's compelling evidence that Tanzania's security forces deployed unnecessary and disproportionate force — including lethal measures — on protesters between October 29 and November 3 after the election. DW's Sella Oneko talks to Amnesty researcher Sikula Oniala and DW correspondent in Tanzania, Noami Jasseda, about updates on the ongoing government probe.

Christmas is one of the busiest travel periods in Nigeria. Millions journey across the country to reunite with family and loved ones. But year after year, the same challenges resurface: overcrowded stations, limited transport options, inflated fares, and endless delays. Why does Nigeria's transport system buckle under festive pressure — and what would it take to fix it?

School fires and student protests have shaken Malawi's education system. Why are schools burning, pupils rioting, and what's next for the country's classrooms?