Hello everyone!
We are back with another roundup of some top stories from last week.
The increase in electricity tariff, Kaduna governor’s allegations against his predecessor, and the swearing-in of Bassirou Faye as President of Senegal made headlines.
Electricity: Tariff Increase Not Justifiable
The Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) announced a significant increase in electricity tariffs for Band A consumers. NERC and the Ministry of Power must explore alternative solutions, such as adopting and implementing smart grid technologies, to improve system efficiency and reduce losses instead of burdening consumers with higher tariffs. Read more
VeryDarkMan’s Release: Police Need to Confirm Or Refute Claims
Since the arrest and release of social media critic, Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, the Nigerian police have remained silent, leaving the public with a one-sided story. The police in the FCT should confirm or refute the claims made by the legal representative of VeryDarkMan. The police need to explain to the public why VeryDarkMan was held to end the speculation surrounding his detention because unlawful detention is a blatant violation of human rights and a disregard for the rule of law. Read more
Governor Sani’s Allegations: EFCC, ICPC Should Investigate Claims
The recent disclosure by Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State that the immediate past administration of Nasir El-Rufai left $587 million, N85 billion in debt, and 115 contractual liabilities must not be ignored. According to Governor Sani, the huge debt has eaten deep into the state’s federal allocation and has made it impossible for the state to pay salaries. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) have to investigate the aforementioned allegations and ensure those guilty of financial crimes are made to face the law. Read more
South Africa: Action Needed to Aid Learners with Disabilities
The learners with disabilities at Ikhwezi Lokusa Special School in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, South Africa, face various challenges that demand attention. The Eastern Cape Department of Education needs to take urgent action to speed up the renovations, ensuring that these learners are afforded the dignified and inclusive educational experience they deserve. Read more
Senegal: As Faye Steps in, Here Are What Citizens Must Demand
Bassirou Faye assumed office as President of Senegal on Tuesday. As the people of Senegal welcome a new president, they have another opportunity to demand and work towards meaningful changes that can positively impact their nation. Read more
Sudan: New Epidemic Requires Urgent Response
There are fears of the emergence of a new epidemic in Kandobi camp, Sudan‘s West Darfur, following the recent surge in mortality rates within the camp. The authorities in Sudan need to collaborate with development partners to provide urgent health emergency services and facilities in the Kandobi camp to prevent the disease from spreading beyond the camp. Read more
Ghana: Child Labour and Distasteful Reality of Chocolate Industry
Child labour continues to plague the chocolate industry in Ghana, as the latest Chocolate Scorecard reveals the prevalence of child exploitation. The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection in Ghana should collaborate with other stakeholders to address the exploitation of children in the chocolate industry. Read more
Sierra Leone: Kush Highlights Urgent Need for Response
Sierra Leone could see its youthful population succumbing to the drug addiction of Kush if drastic and urgent actions are not taken. The Sierra Leonean Ministry of Health must increase its efforts to tame the growing addiction amongst the country’s population by collaborating with stakeholders, including religious leaders, development partners, civil society, and influential figures, to help create awareness of the harmful effects of the drug. Read more
Zambia: Food Intervention Necessary to Save Children, Education
Food insecurity in Zambia has become more concerning as children now go to bed hungry, a situation that can affect educational outcomes. The government of Zambia has to assist families with food for their children to ensure they stay in school and achieve better education outcomes. Read more
That is the roundup of some stories that made headlines last week. More headlines are available on Development Diaries or dev_diaries on IG and X, and development diaries on Facebook.
