A Funky-Fresh Sound From Somalia, With A Political History
A dance band called Dur-Dur Band ruled the nightclub scene in 1980s Mogadishu, thanks to a unique sound made possible by access to Western culture and instruments.
Africa
With Robocalls, Eritrean Exiles Organize Passive Resistance
Dissent is not tolerated in Eritrea, so exiles from the African nation had to get creative when it came to organizing opposition. They are now relying on robocalls that tell Eritreans to stay home Friday evening, the night traditionally devoted to going out.
S. African Leader Under Fire After Awkward Visit With Mandela
Nelson Mandela had a bewildered look and was largely unresponsive when President Jacob Zuma stopped by earlier this week. After the visit was televised, some South Africans began criticizing the president, saying the images were disrespectful to the iconic figure.
787 Dreamliner Could Mean Big Things For Africa's 'Air Wars'
Boeing's 787 Dreamliner was supposed to be a game changing new aircraft, but battery problems grounded the fleet, costing Boeing an estimated $600 million. Now the Federal Aviation Administration has approved a fix to the battery issue, and the first Dreamliner will return to the skies this weekend in Africa. Ethiopian Airlines is relaunching the "continent's first" Dreamliner in its effort to distinguish itself in the increasingly competitive, increasingly crowded African aerospace market.
South Sudan: A Warn-Torn Nation Transforms To Tourist Destination
South Sudan is the world's newest country, and with stunning wildlife and plentiful oil reserves, it's got the raw materials to thrive as a tourist attraction. The African nation's new independence also shed light on what it lacks: infrastructure, government and stable civil society.
Family In Mali Eats French President's Camel
When French President Francois Hollande came for a visit, Mali's government gave him a camel. Unable to transport the camel home, Hollande left it with a local family who then ate it. Embarrassed officials have promised Hollande a new camel.
Religious Tensions Escalate In Egypt Amid Violence
Egypt suffered the worst religious violence over the weekend that it has seen since President Morsi came to power last year. Egyptians are already struggling with an economic crisis and political instability. Now, religious tensions appear to be boiling over.
Nelson Mandela's Condition Seems To Be Improving
Public expressions of concern are on full display as South Africans monitor the hospitalization of anti-apartheid hero and former president Nelson Mandela. The 94 year old is being treated for pneumonia.
As Egypt Negotiates IMF Loan, Food And Fuel Prices Soar
Cairo is negotiating with the International Monetary Fund for a $4.8 billion loan to help pull Egypt out of its deep economic crisis. The government subsidizes wheat and fuel but is running out of money to purchase these crucial imports, and Egyptians are feeling the pinch.
Western Money, African Boots: A Formula For Africa's Conflicts
This model was hailed as a success in Somalia and is now being marshaled to fight rebels in the eastern Congo. It involves Western nations providing financial support to African troops who do the peacekeeping. But why are African countries so silent about their casualty figures?