African Women in Europe

Uganda's Museveni seeks seventh Presidential term

Uganda’s election campaign enters its final days ahead of voting on January 15th, with President Yoweri Museveni seeking to extend his four decades in power. His main challenger, opposition figure Bobi Wine, has rallied younger voters amid concerns raised by the UN about the political climate. We hear from voters and from the BBC in Kampala on the mood in the country. Then, we travel to Benin’s coastal city of Ouidah, where thousands gathered for Vodun Days, celebrating a spiritual tradition and its growing global appeal. Presenter: Charles Gitonga Producers: Blessing Aderogba, Bella Twine Senior Producer: Daniel Dadzie Technical Producer: Terry Chege Editors: Samuel Murunga and Maryam Abdalla

UN refugee chief responds to criticism

In his first interview since taking office on 1 Jan, the new head of the UN refugee agency, Dr Barham Salih, speaks to the BBC about US concerns over the organisation’s effectiveness and his push for reform. Speaking during his first working visit to Kenya’s Kakuma refugee camp, he stresses the continuing scale of global civilian displacement and the need for more efficient humanitarian responses. We also look at how social media platforms are helping young people across Africa use running to build community, connection and wellbeing in cities including Abuja and Nairobi.

Presenter: Charles Gitonga Producers: Blessing Aderogba, Ayuba Iliya, Keikantse Shumba, Bella Twine, Priya Sippy Senior Producer: Daniel Dadzie Technical Producer: Terry Chege Editors: Samuel Murunga and Maryam Abdalla

“I became a founder - then burnt out"

Now, despite a start-up boom happening in Africa, a recent study showed that many of Africa’s start-up founders say their jobs have negatively impacted their mental well-being.

60% of founders reported experiencing anxiety, 58% high stress, 52% exhaustion, and 20% depression. Key stressors include fundraising, inflation and economic instability.

Focus on Africa host Nkechi Ogbonna had a discussion with Jihan Abass, founder of Lami Insurance Technology - a Kenya-based fintech - and Mawano Kambeu, founder of Zambia-based digital company, Dot Com Zambia, to discuss burnout, mental health and navigating Africa’s complex start-up scene.

Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna Producers: Carolyne Kiambo and Fana Weldye Senior Producer: Priya Sippy Technical Producer: Terry Chege Editors: Samuel Murunga and Maryam Abdalla

Thousands flee fighting in Sudan’s Kordofan

Heavy fighting between Sudan’s army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces has intensified in the central region of Kordofan, forcing tens of thousands of civilians from their homes. The UN says entire communities were displaced late last year, as residents describe horrific abuses, fleeing attacks and searching for safety.

We then turn to AFCON in Morocco, where one DR Congo supporter has captured attention by posing as a living statue of Congolese independence hero Patrice Lumumba. Beyond the viral moments, we explore why history, identity and politics are finding a place inside the football stadium.

Presenter: Charles Gitonga Producers: Blessing Aderogba, Chigozie Ohaka, Keikantse Shumba, Chiamaka Dike Senior Producer: Daniel Dadzie Technical Producer: Terry Chege Editors: Samuel Murunga and Maryam Abdalla