AfriCan Geopardy

Welcome to the new month and the latest episode of African Geopardy! This time, we focus on a pressing issue at the intersection of resource governance, organised crime, and security: Gold and Terrorism Financing in the Sahel.Our guest, Dr Oluwole Ojewale, Regional Organised Crime Observatory Coordinator – Central Africa, unpacks how illegal gold mining has become a crucial financial lifeline for terrorist networks in the Sahel. As gold increasingly replaces cash in illicit transactions, its unregulated trade fuels instability, undermining state authority and prolonging violent conflicts. We also examine why the Kimberley Process and similar schemes designed to curb conflict minerals have failed to prevent illicit gold from funding armed groups.Beyond the security dimension, we discuss the broader implications of criminalising artisanal mining, drawing comparisons with petroleum refining in the Niger Delta and gold mining in Ghana. Blanket crackdowns have often pushed vulnerable communities further into informality, exacerbating both economic hardships and security threats. Dr Ojewale challenges this approach, advocating for a more integrated response that considers formalising artisanal mining where local livelihoods depend on it while strengthening governance to cut off illicit financial flows.I am grateful to Dr. Ojewale for sharing his expertise, and I invite you to listen and join the conversation!

Welcome to a new month! In this episode of African Geopardy, weexplore "The Deep Blue Revolution: How Digital Technological Tools AreTransforming Maritime Security in Nigeria" with Mrs Owolabi Gladys,Head of the Deep Blue Unit at the Nigerian Maritime Administration andSafety Agency (NIMASA). With over 31 years of experience in themaritime industry, she provides invaluable insights into Nigeria'sambitious efforts to combat piracy and maritime crimes through digitaltechnology and integrated security processes.We examine how drones, satellite surveillance, and AI-drivenmonitoring systems reshape Nigeria's maritime security landscape. Buthow effective have these tools been? What challenges does Nigeria facein integrating digital solutions into its security framework? MrsOlwolabi also sheds light on collaborations between the government,Navy, private sector, and international partners, the cybersecurityrisks of increasing digital reliance, and key lessons other Africannations can learn from Nigeria's experience.Looking ahead, we discuss the future of tech-driven maritimegovernance and the policy and operational shifts needed to ensure thelong-term success of the Deep Blue Project.Enjoy this compelling discussion on digital innovation, security,and the evolving frontiers of Africa's maritime security architecture.#AfriCan#MaritimeSecurity

How do nations coordinate efforts against piracy, illegal fishing, andother maritime crimes? What challenges and successes define the ICC'smission?In the February episode of AfriCan Geopardy, we explore these pressing questions in our discussion, "Coordinating for Safer Seas: Perspectives from the Interregional Coordination Centre (ICC) Yaoundé." with Navy Captain Bell Bell, Head of Information and communication management Division and Acting Director of the ICC Yaoundé.Captain Bell highlights the innovative strategies driving the ICC'smission, including the transformative power of digital technologicaltools in revolutionizing Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA). Theseadvancements enhance the ability to monitor and secure vast oceanterritories but also bring new challenges. Captain Bell sheds light onthe growing threat of "cyberpiracy" and the complexities of navigatingan increasingly digital maritime landscape.Captain Bell also shares unique perspectives on the root causes ofpiracy, emphasizing the role of economic instability as a key driver.Learn how the ICC Yaoundé addresses these challenges head-on,balancing regional cooperation, technological innovation, andon-the-ground action to create safer seas.Please tune in for a compelling episode that uncovers the triumphs andtrials of maritime security and discovers how collaboration andinnovation are shaping the future of our oceans in the Gulf of Guinea.You may find this article useful if you are interested in the digital-technology themes discussed in the episode.https://theconversation.com/west-africas-coast-was-a-haven-for-piracy-and-illegal-fishing-how-technology-is-changing-the-picture-222803#AfriCan

Happy New Year and welcome to the latest episode of AfriCan Geopardy. In this episode, we discuss the evolution of ECOWAS as it marks 50 years of fostering regional integration and development in West Africa. The discussion explores the transition from an "ECOWAS of States" to an "ECOWAS of the People," with our guest, Her Excellency, Ambassador Josephine Nkrumah highlighting the strides made in promoting economic cooperation, peace, and security. We examined the challenges of making ECOWAS more people-centered, its role in addressing pressing regional issues, and the vision for the next 50 years. The discussion would not have been complete if we did not talk about the decision by Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger to leave the Community. Join us for an engaging conversation about the past, present, and future of this vital regional bloc.#ECOWASofthepeople

As we wrap up the year, this special episode of the African Geopardy Podcast revisits the impactful discussions and critical insights shared throughout 2024. From January to December, we explored various topics shaping geopolitical issues in Africa, including maritime safety, security, terrorism, insurgency, and fisheries sustainability.We started the year in January with an insightful conversation on "A Holistic Approach to Maritime Security and a Review of Progress Made by the Yaoundé Architecture." Senior Captain Bamele, the Operational Coordination Director for State Action at Sea, Cote d'Ivoire and Navy Captain Atonfack, the Technical Adviser to the Ministry of Defence and the Spokesperson for the Cameroonian Armed Forces, and concluded the year by discussing "The Importance of the Upcoming Election and Fisheries Transparency for the Future of Ghana's Fishing Sector," featuring Dr Kamal Deen-Ali, the Executive Director of the Centre for Maritime Law and Security (CEMLAWS) Africa.Join us as we reflect on these significant dialogues, celebrate our amazing guests, and highlight the innovative solutions and bold ideas that are shaping the future of Africa's maritime domain. To our listeners, thank you for your continued support. May you have a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year when it comes.#AfriCan#Wefoundawaytogetintheway

In this episode of African Geopardy, we explore "The Importance of the Upcoming Election and Fisheries Transparency for the Future of Ghana's Fishing Sector" with Dr Kamal-Deen Ali, Team Leader at the Centre for Maritime Law and Security (CEMLAWS) Africa. Drawing from his extensive experience in ocean governance, maritime security, and international law, Dr Ali shares the crucial role of Ghana's fisheries sector in national development. He discusses the importance of transparency in fisheries management and the policies and reforms the next government should prioritise for sustainability. Furthermore, he emphasises why fisheries issues should be a central focus in the upcoming election.Whether you are a voter, a policymaker, or simply passionate about Ghana's fisheries, this episode provides compelling reasons to understand why fisheries matter and why citizens should demand accountability and progress in this vital sector as they make their votes count.Tune in for an insightful discussion on shaping the future of Ghana's fishing sector!

In this month's episode of AfriCan Geopardy, the research team from Dr Ife Okafor-Yarwood's PEW Fellowship Project "Creating Synergies between Indigenous Practices and Scientific Knowledge (ISIPSK)" share their reflections following a month-long field research experience. The episode was recorded on July 30th to capture the team's insights and highlight the significance of collaborative research.You will hear from several discussants, including Mrs Josephine Asare, a PhD student involved in the research, Mr Kwesi Johnson, Mr Nana Kweigyah, Mr Kenneth Arthur, Mr Gabriel Mevuta and Mr Emmanuel Tenkorang.Throughout the conversation, the participants shared their experiences from the field, highlighting the benefits of collaborative research, especially involving people directly affected by the issues researched as part of the research and data collection process. Enjoy and please do share.#Sankofa#Gobackandretrieveit#Knowledgecoproduction

In this month's episode of African Geopardy, we discussed "The strategic role of the Maritime Organisation of West and Central Africa (MOWCA) in advancing maritime safety and security". Our guest, Dr Paul Adalikwu, the Secretary General of MOWCA, shared his extensive knowledge and experience on the topic.During the discussion, we explored MOWCA's strategic role in addressing threats to navigation and security and its ambitious vision to become a continental organization with representation from other regions. We covered topics ranging from countering security threats to improving navigation safety in the Gulf of Guinea and effectively addressing obstacles.Whether you are interested in maritime safety and security or simply curious about efforts to enhance navigation safety, this is an episode you will not want to miss!Thanks for tuning in.#AfriCan!

Welcome to AfriCan Geopardy. In this episode, we discussed "Improving Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) and Maritime Security in the Indian Ocean Region" with Mr Hassani Ahamada Soilihi, a lawyer and maritime expert from the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC). Mr. Soilihi played a key role in introducing the "Safe Seas for Africa" programme, and at the IOC, he has been instrumental in advancing IOC projects focused on oil spill response, fisheries law reform, and environmental concerns.During our discussion, we explored the complex challenges of maritime insecurity in the Western Indian Ocean region and the ongoing efforts to improve maritime domain awareness (MDA) and legal enforcement. We discussed the various constraints in this area, including issues such as over-internationalization and the duplication of responses. Additionally, we looked into the changes necessary for sustained progress, including specific actions or changes that the African Union can implement to address these issues in a new and effective way.The link below provides more information about the IOC's work to strengthen maritime security in the Western Indian Ocean Region.https://www.commissionoceanindien.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/2020_PolicyBrief_web_en.pdf

Tune in to the latest episode of AfriCan Georpady, where we discuss “How YARIS Contributes to Better Maritime Domain Awareness and Security in the Gulf of Guinea and Plans for the Handover of Ownership and Management System to the Region” with Mr. Sam Megwa, the Strategic Director of the EU Gulf of Guinea Interregional Network (GoGIN). In this episode, Mr Sam introduces our listeners to the Yaoundé Architecture Regional Information System (YARIS) platform. He shares success stories and explains how the system is designed to monitor future threats such as terrorism and undersea cable threats. Most importantly, he discussed the plans for regional handover and how this can be achieved. Additionally, he covers other information-sharing tools outside the region, such as MDAT-GoG and ICC/IMB, and how they can work better with the regional centres. Happy listening, and please share youlin thoughts! To learn more about YARIS check the link below: https://yaris.site/en/yaris-platform/ The links below provide more information about how technological tools, including the YARIS system, are helping countries in the Gulf of Guinea improve maritime domain awareness and security. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0308597X23005092 https://theconversation.com/west-africas-coast-was-a-haven-for-piracy-and-illegal-fishing-how-technology-is-changing-the-picture-222803

Welcome to African Geopardy. In this month's episode, we are discussing "Youths and Violent Extremism in West Africa" with Mr Mutaru Mumuni Muqthar, a Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention Practitioner and the Executive Director of the West Africa Centre for Counter-Extremism (WACCE). Over the past nine years, Mutaru has worked to prevent 23 radicalised individuals from joining terrorist groups. His efforts have contributed to a deeper local understanding of radicalisation and violent extremism in West Africa. He has also empowered more than 9,600 youth and community leaders to act as peace ambassadors and build resilience against violent extremism in the region. During our discussion, we explored the link between youth unemployment and recruitment into extremist groups. We also highlighted the role of women in extremist groups. We emphasised the need for a comprehensive and gender-sensitive approach to addressing extremism, including strategies to combat violent extremism in West Africa and across the continent. Thanks for listening and sharing.

In the latest episode of AfriCan Geography, we discussed "Unlocking Nigeria's Blue Economy Potential for Sustainable Growth" with Ms Kashimana Tsumba. She is a maritime lawyer specialising in resolving disputes related to charter parties, crewmen's wages, collisions, and marine insurance contracts. Ms. Tsumba advises ship owners and insurers and is actively involved in enforcement proceedings for LMAA arbitrations. Our discussion covered the opportunities inherent in Nigeria's blue economy and the legal, strategic, operational, and infrastructural challenges of harnessing its potential. Ms Tsumba also touched on what can be done differently to ensure the sustainable exploitation of Nigeria's ocean economy. Thank you for tuning in.

In this episode of AfriCan Geopardy, we explored the "changing trends of terrorism in the Sahel and its potential impact on maritime security in Africa" with Prof. Freedom Onuoha, a Professor of Political Science at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and Coordinator of the Security, Violence, and Conflict (SVC) Research Group at the university. Prof. Onuoha's research interests include aspects of national and transnational security threats, with an emphasis on terrorism, violent extremism, insurgency, maritime security, violent conflict, organized crime, peacebuilding, and state fragility. During the discussion, Prof. Onuoha shed light on the various ways in which the evolving patterns of terrorism in the Sahel region could compromise maritime security in Africa, citing examples from Nigeria, Ghana, Benin, Togo, Côte d'Ivoire, and other states. He also discussed the increased threat posed by the use of drones by terrorist groups and outlined measures that coastal states and their partners could take to mitigate these looming dangers. Thank you for listening.

In this episode of AfriCan Geopardy, Ife Okafor-Yarwood, discusses the "politicisation of unsustainable fisheries practices in Africa". Her reflection is driven by what she views as the "Chinalisation" of threats to sustainable fisheries in Africa, which she believes undermine collective efforts towards sustainable fisheries. The discussion explores numerous instances where EU and European companies and vessels have contributed to unsustainable fishing practices and by extension, the depletion of fish stock on the continent.  For policymakers and implementers on the African continent, the focus should be strengthening the laws, empowering enforcement agencies, improving monitoring, control, and surveillance capability, and collaborating with their neighbours. If you are interested in learning more about the issues raised, you may check the following sources: Greenpeace, (2021). Major European companies linked to food insecurity in West Africa - Greenpeace Africa Oceana, (2021). Oceana-Summary6-22 CFFA, (2023). 'It takes two to tango' – EU fishing partnerships agreements must become more attractive to partner countries — Coalition for Fair Fisheries Arrangements (cffacape.org) Okafor-Yarwood I., and Belhabib D. (2020). The duplicity of the European Union Common Fisheries Policy in third countries: Evidence from the Gulf of Guinea - ScienceDirect

In the latest episode of African Geopardy, we discussed the topic of "Women and Youths in Diplomacy: Realities from the African Continent" with Ambassador Khouloud Ben Mansour. She is the African Union Youth Ambassador of Peace for North Africa (Tunisia) and a UN Women Young Women Peacebuilders Program graduate, where she received training in conflict theories, analysis, and gender-sensitive conflict analysis. Our conversation focused on the critical role that women and youths in Africa play in diplomacy and, more specifically, in working towards peace and security on the African continent. We explored their challenges and how their skills can be better utilised in working for peace on the continent. Ambassador Khouloud spoke passionately about these issues, and having her on our podcast was an absolute joy. We hope you enjoy listening to it. #AfriCan

In this February episode of AfriCan Geopardy, we discuss "State Action At Sea in Cote d'Ivoire: Success Stories and Opportunities for Improvement" with Mr Abroulaye Fofana, the Permanent Secretary of the Inter-ministerial Committee for State Action at Sea, SEPCIM-AEM. Mr. Fofana, under the authority of the Prime Minister, oversees the coordination of missions for about fifteen agencies, both civilian and military, operating or having an interest at sea. During the discussion, we discussed the institutions implementing State Action at Sea, their successes, opportunities for improvement, and much more. Happy listening!

In the January episode of AfriCan Geopardy, we discuss what it means to holistically address maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea with Senior Captain Charles Bamele, the Operational Coordination Director for State Action at Sea, Cote d'Ivoire. Additionally, we explore the successes and challenges of the Yaounde Architecture since the signing of the Yaounde Agreement in 2013 with Navy Capt. Atonfack Guemo, the technical adviser to the Minister of Defence, the Head of the Communication Division, and the spokesperson for the Cameroonian Armed Forces. Enjoy!

In this December episode of AfriCan Geopardy, I take a moment to reflect on our journey throughout 2023 and share our aspirations for the upcoming year, 2024. I want to express my gratitude to all our incredible listeners who have been an integral part of the AfriCan Geopardy family. Your ongoing support and engagement have been truly invaluable. Thank you!

In this episode of African Geopardy, we delve into "Maritime Security in the Gulf of Guinea: Making a Case for the Combined Maritime Task Force (CMTF)" with our esteemed guest, Captain Mohammad Saghir Shettima. Captain Shettima, a distinguished officer in the Nigerian Navy, serves as the Commanding Officer for FOB Igbokoda and is a seasoned maritime security consultant. If you're unfamiliar with the CMTF concept and wish to gain a clearer understanding, especially in the context of drawing insights from the multinational joint task force combating insurgency in the Lake Chad Basin, then don't miss this episode. You may have wondered how the CMTF would work when the provisions of the Yaounde Agreement have not been fully implemented; we've got you covered. Just press play and hear Captain Shettima share his valuable insights.

Welcome to AfriCan Geopardy! In this episode, we delve into "Harnessing the Blue Economy opportunities in Africa" with our guest, Ambassador Nancy Karigithu. She brings a wealth of expertise as Kenya's Special Envoy and Advisor for Maritime and Blue Economy. Ambassador Karigithu previously served as the Principal Secretary for the State Department of Shipping and Maritime Affairs in the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs. She holds the Advisor on Blue Economy position in the President's Executive office. While the Blue Economy presents significant opportunities for Africa, particularly in shipping and maritime transport, it also presents challenges. Join us as Ambassador Karigithu shares insights and outlines a path forward. Happy listen and have a great month ahead.

In this episode of AfriCan Geopardy, we discuss "Strengthening Regional Maritime Security in a phase of Competing Geopolitical Interests" with Dr. Kamal-Deen Ali, a highly accomplished executive director with extensive expertise in maritime law, security, and international relations. Dr Ali, who holds a PhD and the rank of Navy Captain (Retired), is currently the Executive Director of the Centre for Maritime Law and Security Africa (CEMLAWS Africa) and is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Professional Studies Accra. Our discussion touches upon various aspects that directly relate to the current realities in the Gulf of Guinea. We explore the regional and international dynamics and consider the necessary steps for achieving positive change. Enjoy!

In this episode of AfriCan Geopardy, we explore the path to a more secure and prosperous future for the Gulf of Guinea countries by discussing "Improving maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea" with the remarkable Ambassador Florentina Ukonga. As a distinguished career diplomat, Ambassador Florentina Adenike Ukonga (MFR) brings a wealth of experience. She served as the Executive Secretary of the Gulf of Guinea Commission (GGC) from June 2015 to April 2023. Before that, she was Deputy Executive Secretary-Political Affairs at the GGC from May 2007 to May 2015. But her expertise doesn't stop there! Before her tenure at the GGC, she was the Under-Secretary for African Affairs in Nigeria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, overseeing crucial relations with African nations and inter-governmental organizations from April 2004 to November 2006. During our discussion, Ambassador Ukonga sheds light on the threats to maritime security, their drivers and impact and the remarkable progress thus far. That's not all – she reveals the key roles that national and regional governments and international partners can play in ensuring the region's lasting security and sustainable development. Thanks for listening.

"Fisheries closed season in Ghana, what is it and how does it affect fisherfolk?" In our newest episode, we delve into the important topic of the fisheries closed season in Ghana and its implications for fisherfolk. Today (1st of July), as Ghana and Cote d'Ivoire commence their closed season for artisanal and industrial fisheries, we are thrilled to feature Mr Nana Kweigyah as our guest. Mr Nana Kweigyah is the current National President of the Canoe and Fishing Gear Owners Association of Ghana (CaFGOAG), representing canoe and gear owners in Ghana's four coastal regions. With a background as a small-scale fisher and a graduate of the University of Cape Coast, Nana Kweigyah has devoted his life to advocating for the active involvement of fishers, particularly canoe owners, women, and youth, in fisheries governance and management. During our discussion, we explore the reasons behind implementing the fisheries closed season, assess its limitations and impacts, and offer recommendations for alternative approaches. We emphasise the importance of transparency, inclusivity, and ensuring equity and justice in fisheries management to prevent fisherfolk from being further marginalised and vulnerable to criminal networks. Join us as we unravel the complexities of the fisheries closed season in Ghana and its effects on the lives of fisherfolk.

In this month's thrilling episode of African Geopardy, we discussed "Climate Crossroads: Unraveling the Connection between Irregular Migration and Climate Change in Africa." with the incredible Ambassador Dr Namira Negm, the First Director of the African Migration Observatory. She is at the forefront of harmonising national strategies and equipping African states with comprehensive knowledge of migration through data collection and analysis. Prepare to be captivated as we explore the fascinating connection between climate change and internal and external migration. We dive deep into the actions taken by the African Union and its partners while also exploring approaches that can avert the impending impact of climate change on migration. Have a great day and weeks ahead.

Welcome to African Geopardy. In this episode, we discuss the "Current trends in human trafficking and red flags" with Prof. Waziri-Azi, Director General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP). Prof Fatima Waziri-Azi is a Nigerian academic, lawyer, and human rights activist with a PhD in Law from the University of Pittsburgh. In this episode, we dive deep into the world of human trafficking. Prof Fatima Waziri-Azi, the DG of NAPTIP, sheds light on the current trends and shocking statistics that will leave you speechless. We also discuss the concept of "Japa" and how people fall victim to human trafficking in the quest for "Japa". You'll learn how traffickers use various tactics to lure victims and the red flags to watch out for to stay safe. Prof Waziri-Azi provides practical tips to help you avoid falling victim and what to do if you suspect someone may be a victim of trafficking. Don't miss this informative and eye-opening episode. Ps: Apologies for the low-quality audio recording from our end; this was due to a poor internet connection

In this month's episode of AfriCan Georpardy, we are excited to introduce Dr Okafor-Yarwood's research as part of the Pew Marine Fellowship. The interview is led by her colleague, Dr Noleen Chikowore, a sustainable development lecturer at the University of St Andrews. Over three years, Dr Okafor-Yarwood will receive $150,000 to investigate the impact of fisheries closures in Ghana on nearby communities and to develop locally appropriate and sustainable conservation strategies based on local ecological knowledge in West Africa. This research is crucial because current marine conservation approaches often disregard the needs of vulnerable communities. With limited government resources to provide alternative livelihoods for those affected by such policies, it is essential to explore all options to ensure fair and just policies. In a recent development, Cote d'Ivoire has announced the implementation of a closed season for the artisanal, industrial, and tuna industries starting from July 2023. Thanks for listening and your patience, as this month's episode comes quite later.

In the March episode of AfriCan Geopardy, we discuss "Imagining the world that could be: Planting the seeds of decolonial futures" with Mr Aasif Bulbulia, a researcher from Johannesburg, South Africa, who is currently studying towards an MA in Education Policy Studies through Stellenbosch University. He is passionate about exploring the intersections between decoloniality, education, liberation theology and future studies. Decolonial future is not a concept with a single definition. However, it can mean a future where different ways of knowing to co-exist and are not strictly defined by the eurocentric knowledge hierarchies and way of being... In discussing what a decolonial future could look like, key advice for observers and those that would like to support the process includes but is not limited to the following: Listen! Pay attention! Support those putting in the work of building decolonial futures. Listen! Reflect!! Share!!!

In the February episode of AfriCan Geopardy, we discussed "Know thyself" with Ms Angel Smeijer, an Integral Leadership coach. She helps individuals and teams gain clarity and awareness to help them achieve their higher goals. She is also an HR leader with experience leading the HR function in tech scales and start-ups. This topic is important because the AfriCan continent has the highest percentage of entrepreneurs globally at 22%. At the same time, the continent holds some of the highest percentages of failed ventures in the first year -- 54% at the continental level, 75% in Ethiopia, and Rwanda, 74% in Ghana, 67% in DRC and Zimbabwe and 33% in Nigeria. This episode outlines what African entrepreneurs (and our listeners) can do to ensure they are not part of the failed entrepreneurship statistics. Thank you for listening.

Happy New Year! Welcome to the January episode of AfriCan Geopardy. In this episode, we had an insightful conversation with Ms Cynthia Chigwnya, the AfriCan Union Youth Ambassador for Southern Africa. We discussed her aspirations, the challenges of executing her role, the success stories and what can be done differently. Ms Cynthia Chigwenya is a Political Researcher and currently serves as the African Union's Youth Ambassador for Southern Africa, advocating for the adoption and implementation of National Action Plans on Youth, Peace and Security (YPS) in SADC. She promoted YPS priorities at the expert discussion on 'Key Outcomes of the 2022 EU-AU Summit,' spoke at the 6th-anniversary of UN Resolution 2250, and recommended the AU's Peace and Security Council to proactively partner with youth in tackling insurgencies in Cabo Delgado, Mozambique. Cynthia works as a Programme Coordinator for Political Dialogue in Sub-Saharan Africa at Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, a German political foundation. She previously held research positions in the South African Parliament and the National Genocide. This is an episode not to be missed, especially if you are keen to learn more about how youths contribute to peace and security on the AfriCan continent and their challenges. Thank you for listening.

In the December episode of AfriCan Geopardy, Dr Ife Okafor-Yarwood reflects on the year we have had by going over the topics we have discussed throughout the year. We want to thank our listeners and guests for the support they have given us throughout the years, and we look forward to your continued support. AfriCan!

Welcome to the November episode of AfriCan Geopardy. Have you ever wondered about the relationship between fish and terrorism? Listen to this episode to find out more. Here, we discuss "fishing and insurgency in the Lake Chad Basi: Exploring Boko Haram's economy of violence" with Mr Malik Samuel, an investigative journalist and a researcher with the Institute for Security Studies. His work in the last seven years has been focused on the Boko Haram crisis affecting the Lake Chad Basin region. His research focus includes terrorism financing, children in conflict, human rights violations, farmer-herder clashes, and the crime-terror nexus. Although terrorist can maintain their reign of terror through coercion and intimidation, the insurgency has also been sustained because Boko Haram/ISWAP and their likes are winning hearts by providing public goods and services that the government has failed to provide the people. If there is one thing you take away from this episode, let it be that we cannot win the war on terror through armament alone.

In this month's episode of AfriCan Geopardy, we discussed "the untold stories of AfriCan abolitionists" with Mr Michael Odijie. Mr Odijie is a Research Fellow on the African Abolitionism: The Rise and Transformations of Anti-Slavery in Africa" (AFRAB) project at University College London (UCL). AFRAB seeks to answer critical questions about the role of Africans in the abolitionist movement on the continent. To find out more, check: African Abolitionism: The Rise and Transformations of Anti-Slavery in Africa | History - UCL – University College London The discussion highlights the role that AfriCans played in the eras of slavery and abolitionism - this episode is not to be missed. Listen. Reflect. Share.

In this episode of AfriCan Geopardy, we discuss "Overdosing on Multivitamin supplements in post-COVID19 era" with Ms Ifedola Olojo, a Clinical Pharmacist at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Lagos, Nigeria. Ifedola received her first degree, a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D), from the University of Benin, Nigeria and a second-degree MSc. Pharmacology from the University of Lagos, Nigeria. Her professional interests are HIV care, Infectious diseases, Digital Healthcare delivery and Nutrition health. Listen. Reflect. Share.

In this episode of Geopardy, we discussed "The complexities of Western return of African stolen Artefacts" with Nosmot Gbadamosi, the writer of Foreign Policy's weekly Africa Brief. She has covered human rights, the environment, and sustainable development across Africa, Asia, and Europe. Her journalism has appeared in over 30 publications, including Al Jazeera, CNN, and TIME Magazine. In discussing the complexities of the return of Africa's stole artefacts, we focused mostly on Benin bronze and the complexities around the promise of the return and why return must mean return and not the current shadows of uncertainty surrounding the terms of the return of the stolen artefacts by the former colonial masters. This episode is one not to be missed. You may reach Nosmot via the following: Portfolio: www.nosmotgbadamosi.com Blog: https://lovedesignetc.wordpress.com

In this episode of AfriCan Geopardy, we discussed "The role of socio-economic development in conflict prevention and resolution in Africa" with Teniola Tayo, a researcher with the Lake Chad Basin programme at the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) in Dakar. Teni's research interests border on the security, trade and development nexus. Teni uses the social realities in the Lake Chad Basin to show how working for peace in times of conflict must almost always consider the socio-economic solutions. With vast experience working in the subject area, the recommendations are practical and include actionable roles for the AfriCan youths. Listen. Reflect. Share.

On this episode of AfriCan Geopardy, we discussed “Impacts and Trends of IUU fishing in the South-West Indian Ocean (SWIO)” with Mr Vicente Cossa. Mr Cossa works for the World Wide Fund for Nature, focusing on processes for establishing the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Monitoring Control and Surveillance Coordination Centre, which will be based in Mozambique (SADC-MCSCC). As the title indicates, the discussion focussed on the extent of IUU fishing and the challenges and progress made by SWIO countries (Mozambique in particular). Importantly, Mr Cossa also touched on the cyclical relationship between poverty and deprivation in the coastal areas and the advancement of insurgency in coastal Mozambique. Listen. Reflect. Share.

In this episode of AfriCan Geopardy, we discussed “the impact of Russia's war in Ukraine on Africa's global ambitions/partnerships” with Liesl Louw-Vaudran, a senior researcher at the Institute for Security Studies (ISS), South Africa. She is the editor of the ISS' monthly publication on the African Union Peace and Security Council, the PSC Report, and project leader for Southern Africa. She is also a non-executive board member of In Transformation Initiative, a South African not-for-profit organization focused on peacemaking. She has published extensively, with her latest publication being Could Russia's war in Ukraine derail Africa's global partnerships? - ISS Africa, published in April 2022. Reflect. Comment. Share.

Although women are generally underrepresented in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), they are present and doing amazing jobs in their roles. Women nurture the tech ecosystem in Africa, leading tech hubs and empowering young Africans. In this episode of African Geopardy, we discuss 'the role and contribution of African women in technology' with Aïda Ndiaye. Ms Ndiaye heads META's Society and Responsibility Policy Programmes and Campaigns in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. In her role, she oversees external programmes to combat online misinformation and build an informed digital world. Her team also leads direct engagement with policymakers and regulators in EMEA to shape the future of tech regulation. As you can see from the profile, our guest is a leading figure in a global tech company and is best placed to discuss this topic with us. Listen. Share. Engage.

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted clinical radiography educational activities, including teaching, research, and clinical placement, globally. Like most other countries across the globe, countries across the African continent were well affected by the lockdown measures introduced by governments to slow the spread of the pandemic. This episode explores some of the disruptions to clinical radiography caused by the COVID19 restrictions and offers suggestions to avert future impact. We are privileged to have an excellent guest discuss the topic with us. Dr Theophilus(Theo) Akudjedu is the programme coordinator for the MSc Medical Imaging with Management Programme and a senior lecturer in medical imaging at the Institute of Medical Imaging and Visualisation, Bournemouth University. He holds an honorary diagnostic radiographer post with the University Hospitals Dorset (England). As a clinical academic diagnostic radiographer, Theo's research interests relate mostly to clinical neuroimaging (MRI), radiography, healthcare research, and workforce development. Before his postgraduate studies, Theo worked clinically as a diagnostic radiographer in some of Ghana's busiest urban and rural hospitals. To find out more about the topic, read the research by Dr Theo and colleagues below: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8603034/

In this episode of AfriCan Georpardy, we discuss understanding ad-hoc security initiatives in Africa with Dr Andrew Yaw Tchie. Dr Andrew E. Yaw Tchie is a Senior Research Fellow at the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI), a Visiting Professor at the University of Buckingham, a visiting Senior Fellow at King's College London and an Associate Fellow at the Royal United Services Institute. At NUPI, he focuses on stabilisation, peace operations, peacekeeping, peacebuilding and security assistance in Sub-Saharan Africa and Coordinates the training for Peace Project. You would see from the discussion that there are many positive things about ad-hoc security initiatives on the African continent and the role they play in working for peace in situations of conflict and/or insurgency. There are equally some limitations identified by Dr Tchie, as he made recommendations on what can be done differently. You can read a paper on the subject published by NUPI with Dr Tchie as a co-author via the link below: https://trainingforpeace.org/publications/understanding-ad-hoc-security-initiatives-in-africa/ Thanks for listening.

Happy new year, everyone, and welcome to the first episode of Georpardy. Here, Dr Dyhia Belhabib and Dr Ifesinachi Okafor-Yarwood reflect on their personal experiences and the topics discussed by our guests in 2021. It's one of the longest episodes we've had and unedited because we want it to be authentic, and there's also the fact that we don't have the requisite editing skills :). Thanks so much for being part of our journey, for listening, and for sticking with us. We have amazing things planned for 2022.

In this episode, we discuss China Africa relation in the context of fishmeal investment in The Gambia with Mr Mustafa Manneh. Mr Manneh is the West Africa Regional editor at China Dialogue, based in The Gambia. He is a researcher focusing on China-Africa relations and fishmeal investment. All major fishmeal industries in the Gambia are Chinese-owned, causing devastation in the country. It contributes to overexploitation, equates to 'stealing fish from human to feed fish' and pollutes the environment driving potential tourists away. European countries are also complicit because they enable the business of these fishmeal companies to flourish. A recent report by Greenpeace highlighted the complicity of European companies in helping this industry flourish. The report noted that major European companies contribute to the devastating consequences of the fishmeal and fish oil trade in West Africa. In particular, the report mentioned major companies in France, Norway, Denmark, Germany, Spain, Greece, and the UK. You may read the report here: https://www.greenpeace.org/static/planet4-africa-stateless/2021/05/47227297-feeding-a-monster-en-final-small.pdf. Enjoy

In this episode, we discuss Gender and Security in Africa: the Nigerian experience with Ruth Okugbeni, the Acting Executive Director at the CLEEN Foundation www.cleen.org.  Ruth's work focuses on improving the effectiveness of security and justice sector agencies through human rights-based approaches and improved accountability for better service delivery. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Education from the University of Ibadan, a Master of Arts Degree in Development Studies with a major in Social Policy from the Erasmus University, Rotterdam, Netherlands. She is currently pursuing doctoral studies and research in Defence and Security Studies.  The discussion clarifies why women are underrepresented in the security sector and makes recommendations on what can be done differently.  Key insights from the discussion are that laws that promote gender discrimination were formulated during the colonial era. Therefore, as independent states, African nations must work to repeal those laws and take advantage of women and men's contributions in the security sector.

In this episode of Georpardy, we discuss 'Nigeria's suppression of Piracy and Other Maritime Act 2019: A panacea for good maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea'. Since the law was enacted, there have been two criminal convictions, one in 2020 and the second in 2021. However, one question that begs for an answer is: can the law serve as a deterrence to criminals? Listen to find out. Discussing this topic with our hosts is Constance Omagbemi, a Corporate Lawyer presently with the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA). She spent the first five years of her career as a Litigation Lawyer with two leading law firms in Nigeria before joining the Legal Services Unit of NIMASA in January 2013. Her diligent efforts in the Agency and penchant for excellence earned her the Employee of the Year award in 2019. 

In this episode we continue with the theme of fisheries policy or lack thereof by bringing to the fore the realisties from Ghana. The topic is discussed with Mr Kwesi Johnson, an ardent advocate for sustainable fisheries management in Ghana. He has worked in initiatives that involve local and international development organisation, academia, media, grassroots trades, farmers for fair trade, village banking saving and loan activities and fishers' groups in combating Illegal fishing and promoting self-help through savings and voluntary compliance activities. He shares the social realities of fishers in Ghana and makes recommendations on what can be done differently to improve the current situation.

In this episode we discuss African fisheries policy or lack thereof. This is an episode NOT to be missed. The African continent does not assert itself in the Regional Fisheries Management Organisations. There is still this colonial undertone with the way European countries relate with countries in Africa on fisheries. The network tried so hard to disrupt the flow of our conversation, but we won Our guest, Madam Mpozi has a wealth of practical and academic experience of the subject. Madam Mpozi's academic training is in marine & fisheries science, having obtained a Master's degree in Fisheries Science and Management from the University of Bergen, Norway. She has over 15 years of experience spanning a diverse career path- such as fisheries, academia and state-owned entities. Madam Mpozi was the founding Director of the Security Institute for Governance & Leadership in Africa (SIGLA), focusing on maritime security... In the last five years, Madam Mpozi was the Deputy Director-General of fisheries at the Department of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries, responsible for the sustainable development and management of South Africa's 22 commercial fishery sectors and aquaculture. Her function included advising the Minister and Parliament on fisheries policies. In 2016, for the first in South Africa's history- the small scale fisheries policy was developed and approved by Parliament. The policy led to the recognition and restoration of fishing rights to coastal communities. For four years, Ms Mpozi has been the Commissioner of South Africa to the tuna regional fisheries management organization (tRFMO's). She led the negotiations on the sustainable management and fishing possibilities of shared and highly migratory fish stocks. South Africa led the adoption of various management measures throughout this process. Like all our guests, Madam Mpozi have an open invitation to return - #goodtrouble. #Findawaytogetintheway.

In this episode of AfriCan Geopardy, we discussed religion and development in Africa. Religion and development are often intimately interwoven for good or ill in Africa and elsewhere. For instance, religious organisations play a significant role in poverty alleviation, health care and peace and reconciliation programmes. At the same time, select religious organisations were used as a tool for colonialism. Hence, we have chosen this topic to clarify the intersection between religion and development. To discuss this topic, we had a befitting guest who is an expert on the subject. Dr Aikande Clement Kwayu is a social scientist with experience in both academia and practice. She consults on management, political economy analysis, policy analysis and evaluation of development projects. Dr Aikande has a PhD in Politics and International Relations from the University of Nottingham (UK). Her book, Religion and British International Development Policy | Aikande Clement Kwayu | Palgrave Macmillan, published in 2020, is a must-read.

Disaster risk management entails introducing disaster risk reduction policies and strategies to prevent new disaster risk, reduce existing disaster risk, manage residual risk, and strengthen resilience and reduce disaster losses. With a focus on averting conflict over water resources, we discuss disaster risk management in Africa with Thandie Mwape Villadsen. Thandie is the Humanitarian Diplomacy Coordinator for the Africa Region at the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) as Humanitarian Diplomacy Coordinator for Africa. Thandie is a Zambian National, a trained journalist and former UN Diplomat with 20 years of international experience in the United Nations in Africa, Asia, Geneva and New York. In her previous job, Thandie worked as global Policy Advisor at the Netherlands Red Cross society/Partners for Resilience Alliance on Climate Change and Ecosystems and advancing disaster risk reduction and community resilience. In this discussion, Thandie outlines some of the issues relating to disaster risk management on the continent, the work done by IFRC and recommendations on what the continent can do differently.

Energy security is commonly defined as the uninterrupted availability of energy sources at an affordable price. However, this definition does not reflect the social realities of 600 million AfriCans who do not have access to electricity or the 900 million that lack access to clean cooking on the continent. As a result, taking this reality into account Dr Nalule powerfully argues that energy security is about accessibility than affordability as people have to first have access to electricity before being concerned about affordability. She also proposed some solutions to Africa’s energy security needs. Thanks for listening.