Focus on Africa

A succession battle is intensifying in Uganda’s Tooro Kingdom ahead of the late king’s burial. Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma has been named the next monarch, but the decision is being challenged by members of King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV’s immediate family, raising questions about the kingdom’s future leadership.
And Ethiopia is preparing to welcome the year 2019 on September 11. On New Year's Eve, Ethiopians at home and across the world will celebrate Enkutatash, the start of a new year in the Ethiopian calendar. We explore the traditions and how the occasion is marked.
Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna
Producers: Keikantse Shumba, Bella Twine and Fana Negash
Technical Producer: Davis Mwasaru
Senior Producer: Blessing Aderogba
Editors: Daniel Dadzie and Maryam Abdalla

The recent killing of eight women across Cameroon in a single week has sparked outrage and renewed calls for specific legislation to tackle gender-based violence. The country has been grappling with femicide in recent years, with human rights organisations accusing the government of not doing enough to protect women. We explore what's behind the violence and why activists are pushing for stronger protections for women.
And a conversation about the challenges facing African and African-American talent in the global film industry, from stereotypes and typecasting to pay disparities and limited opportunities for career growth.
Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna
Producers: Keikantse Shumba and Ayuba Iliya
Technical Producer: Davis Mwasaru
Senior Producer: Blessing Aderogba
Editors: Daniel Dadzie and Maryam Abdalla

Undocumented foreign traders in Kenya have 90 days to legalise their status. This follows a directive from President William Ruto that they should not compete with Kenyans in small businesses. The trade ministry said some foreigners exploit visa rules to work in the country without the required permits. And in Sudan, we hear from a photographer who fled the violence in El-Fasher, a key city in Darfur, that is now under control by the Rapid Support Forces. He now lives in Tawila camp about 60km north of Darfur. For years, he documented the war. Now, his camera is chasing smiles despite the conflict.
Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna
Producers: Bella Twine
Technical Producer: David Kinyanjui
Senior Producer: Blessing Aderogba
Editors: Rhoda Odhiambo and Maryam Abdalla

The United Nations has endorsed a new map projection that more accurately represents Africa’s true size. The "Correct the Map" resolution, sponsored by Togo and backed by African Union (AU) member states, was adopted with the support of 164 countries, including France and the United Kingdom. The United States was the only country to vote against it, while six nations abstained. On this episode, we explore why this new map matters and what it reveals about Africa’s true scale.
And Nigeria has one of the world's highest numbers of out-of-school children, with the UN estimating that 19 million are missing out on education. Insecurity remains a major barrier. BBC Eye follows two young girls in Zamfara State who are rebuilding their futures through education after violence forced them out of school.
Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna
Producers: Keikantse Shumba and Bella Twine
Technical Producer: David Kinyanjui
Senior Producer: Blessing Aderogba
Editors: Daniel Dadzie and Maryam Abdalla

From selling charcoal, firewood and a popular West Africa staple food locally known as garri, to making waves on the global music scene. Liberian superstar JZyNO has come a long way. He started making music in Liberia before moving to Ghana to pursue his dreams, where he found a more developed music industry. In 2023, he broke onto the international scene with his hit single, Butta My Bread, which has amassed over 300 million views.

He sat down with Focus on Africa to reflect on life since his breakout hit, his humble beginnings in Liberia, and what the country needs to do to produce more globally successful artists.

Presenter: Nkechi Ogbonna
Producers: Godwin Asediba, Keikantse Shumba, Carolyne Jotham and Bella Twine
Technical Producer: Maxwell Onyango
Senior Producers: Charles Gitonga and Priya Sippy
Editors: Daniel Dadzie and Maryam Abdalla