Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
15 October 2024 | 23:10 CAT
3-minute read

Flooding crisis in Chad

Chad has been grappling with severe floods since July, and the situation continues to worsen. Nearly a million people have been displaced, and at least 145 lives have been lost as floodwaters wreak havoc on homes, infrastructure, and agricultural land.

The torrential rains have resulted in the destruction of crops and livestock, further threatening the food security of the region. Humanitarian agencies are working on the ground, but the situation remains dire.

Chad, already one of the poorest countries in the world, faces the challenge of rebuilding amid widespread damage. The country’s dependence on agriculture makes the destruction of grazing land particularly devastating, while infrastructure remains inadequate to cope with such disasters.

Unrest in Martinique: A struggle for independence

In the French Caribbean territory of Martinique, unrest continues despite the imposition of a curfew. Protests against the high cost of living, inequality and the long-standing grievances over the island’s colonial status have intensified.

Martinique has a complex relationship with France, marked by economic dependency and deep social inequalities. A small minority, predominantly white, controls much of the island’s economy, leaving the majority of the population marginalised.

These protests are not new—Martinique has experienced waves of unrest over the years, driven by the frustration of its people who seek greater autonomy and equality.

Economic disparity, lack of political freedom, and environmental degradation, including pesticide use in agriculture, are among the key issues driving the discontent. While France maintains control over the island, the rising unrest highlights the growing calls for decolonisation and self-determination in its overseas territories.

Tito Mboweni: A legacy of economic transformation

Mikatekiso Kubayi reflected on the life of Tito Mboweni, who was the country’s first Democratic Labor Minister, former Reserve Bank Governor, and former Finance Minister.

Mboweni’s contribution to South Africa’s economic transformation is widely recognised. He was instrumental in steering the country through periods of growth, particularly during the early 2000s, when South Africa enjoyed a robust economy with a steady GDP growth of around 5%. His tenure as Reserve Bank Governor from 1999 to 2009 was marked by prudent fiscal management, inflation targeting, and stabilisation of the national currency.

Despite some criticism of the neoliberal policies implemented during his time, Mboweni is remembered for his decisive leadership in difficult times. His return as Finance Minister in 2018 during a tumultuous economic period highlighted his enduring influence in South African politics. Known for his humour and intellectual rigor, Mboweni was a figure who relished debate and championed economic policies aimed at ensuring stability.

Thabo Mbeki Foundation’s annual Peace and Security Dialogue

The Thabo Mbeki Foundation recently launched its Annual Peace and Security Dialogue, a platform aimed at addressing the issues of conflict and violence across Africa. The dialogue, which was attended by high-level delegations from various African nations, focused on African agency in resolving conflicts and promoting sustainable peace.

Mr Kubayi noted the importance of the conference in fostering African-led solutions to the continent’s security challenges. The discussions addressed policy issues, inter-state relations, and strategies to reduce the persistent violence in several African countries.

The outcomes of the dialogue will be presented to bodies like the African Union (AU) for further action, with the hope that these discussions will lead to tangible changes in how African states handle internal and cross-border conflicts.

This year’s dialogue reflects a growing recognition that Africa’s peace and security challenges must be solved through collaboration, and with the active involvement of African institutions. As more dialogues and forums like this are held, there is optimism that the continent can chart a path toward stability and self-reliance in peacebuilding.

Listen to the Africa Report on Sabaahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat.