Popular
Photo by Thabo Jaiyesimi/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images.

Protesters holding a banner saying, Oromo lives matter, during the demonstration. Ethiopian Oromo community in London protest demanding justice for Slain singer, Haacaaluu Hundeessaa. Haacaaluu sang in the Oromo language, Ethiopias largest ethnic group and his music became the melody of a protest movement that helped bring down Ethiopia's government in 2018.

Deep Dive: Protest Movements Across the Continent

Here is a detailed look at the major protests which have engulfed a number of African countries thus far in 2020.

This year, although only seven months in, has and continues to be an eventful one across all fronts. While the entire world is collectively reeling from the effects of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, there have been considerable shifts on the socio-political landscapes of many African countries. As a result, there have been a number of mass demonstrations taking place across the continent as those who are fed up by the alleged corruption, increasing poverty and inequality at the hands of their respective governments, have said "no more". From anti-government protests in Algeria to youth protests against police brutality in Kenya, here is a list of the major protest action currently taking place (or that has already taken place) across the continent.

This list is in no particular order.


Ethiopia, January 2020

Protesters holding a banner saying, Oromo lives matter,

Photo by Thabo Jaiyesimi/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images.

Ethiopia's most recent protests come after the death of popular Oromo musician Hachalu Hundessa, whose music is credited for giving voice to the Oromo Lives Matter movement. Hundessa was gunned down last month in Addis Ababa although the details around his death are not yet known. Almost two weeks ago, protests erupted in the Oromia region and led to the death of at least 145 civilians and another 10 in the capital, according to the BBC. Ethnic tensions in Ethiopia continue to worsen under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.

At the beginning of this year, thousands of Ethiopians took to the street to protest against the government's failure to locate 18 students who had been abducted towards the end of 2019. The students, who are from the Amhara community in the northern parts of Ethiopia, were studying at Dembi Dollo University. Although some believed that the Oromo Liberation Army was behind the abductions, the army refuted the allegations and cast the blame on the government instead.

Nigeria, January 2020

Several mass protests against continued gender-based violence (GBV) in Nigeria have been taking place since 2019. Last year, Nigerian women protested the spate of murders of at least eight women in various Port Harcourt hotels. Last month,#JusticeForUwa saw many Nigerians demanding justice for 22-year-old student Vera Omozuwa who was attacked and murdered by a group of men while in a Benin City church. That online movement then grew into the much larger #WeAreTired movement which was championed by the likes of Tiwa Savage, Wizkid and Don Jazzy. By the end of June, the Nigerian government had declared a state of emergency on rape in the country.

Guinea, January 2020

Protesters confornt the army in the streets in Conakry on March 22, 2020, during a constitutional referendum in the country.

Photo by CELLOU BINANI/AFP via Getty Images.

There have been massive anti-government protests in Guinea since last year. The protests come after President Alpha Condé announced that his government would be looking into a new constitution which would allow him to remain in power for a third term. The protests, which are largely concentrated in Conakry, Boffa and N'Zerekore, have resulted in the deaths of at least seven people thus far. Additionally, six protesters were recently killed following clashes with the police over measures put in place to curb the spread of COVID-19. Citizens were reportedly frustrated by alleged corruption at the hands of authorities.

Zimbabwe, January 2020

A doctor with a loud hailer shouts slogans during a protest march by senior medical doctors in Harare, on December 4, 2019.

Photo by JEKESAI NJIKIZANA/AFP via Getty Images.

Anti-government protests have been taking place in Zimbabwe since last year. While the government, under current President Emmerson Mnangagwa's leadership, has been condemned for the police violence targeting protesters from the opposition, there have been additional protests led by health professionals in the country. Doctors downed their tools and took to the streets for over four months demanding better pay and working conditions––conditions which have only worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic. The protests eventually came to a halt when Zimbabwean telecoms billionaire Strive Masiyiwaannounced that he would set up a fund which would help doctors manage living costs.

Fresh protests threaten to erupt, however, following the arrest of prominent journalist Hopewell Chin'ono whose work has exposed the alleged corruption by the government during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Chin'ono was arrested alongside opposition leader Jacob Ngarivhume and kept on charges of "incitement to participate in public violence".

Senegal, January 2020

Similar to the protests in Guinea, mass demonstrations erupted in Senegal's Dakara, Mbacké, Touba, Tambacounda and Diourbel with youths taking to the streets to protest against the curfew and ban on regional travel amid the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak. The measures put in place to curb the spread of COVID-19 were reportedly causing further economic hardships for the youth and their livelihoods.

The Gambia, January 2020

Demonstrators against the regime of Yahya Jammeh, the former President of the Gambia, gather in the streets during a demonstration asking for Yahya Jammeh to be brought to justice in Banjul on January 25, 2020.

Photo by ROMAIN CHANSON/AFP via Getty Images.

The protests in The Gambia are complex. Initially, protests at the beginning of this year were in support of former President Yahya Jammeh's safe return from exile after the politician claimed he had been "driven out of the country". Jammeh ruled the West African country for over two decades and subsequently lost to current President Adama Barrow in the national elections back in 2017. On the other hand, many other Gambians, along with the Gambia Center for Victims of Human Rights Violations, insisted that Jammeh return so that he could be arrested, charged and prosecuted for the crimes committed during his rule. There have also been continued protests calling for President Barrow to step down. After being sworn into office in 2017, President Barrow was only meant to be in office for three years. However, he has recently backtracked on that commitment which has subsequently given rise to the "Three Years Jotna" movement.

Liberia, January 2020

Liberia has been engulfed in anti-government protests for a while. Protesters have called for current President George Weah to resign following what they describe as a failure to resolve the country's dire economic situation in addition to rampant corruption by government officials. Back in June of last year, Liberians protested for the first time since President Weah took office in 2017. Failing to adequately address an investigation which uncovered the disappearance of millions of dollars, the government then restricted internet and social media access shortly before the protests took place.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), January 2020

In January of this year, students in the DRC protested against the increasing cost of tuition at Kinshasa University. After students were forced to vacate the university premises by police, President Felix Tshisekedi was reportedly set to meet with student leaders to discuss a way forward. In 2019, students at Lubumbashi University had protested against hikes in tuition fees as well as infrastructural issues. At least four people were killed during those protests, according to IOL.

Uganda, February 2020

Stella Nyanzi (C), a prominent Ugandan activist and government critic, is arrested by police officers as she organised a protest for more food distribution by the government to people who has been financially struggling by the nationwide lockdown imposed to curb the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus, in Kampala, on May 18, 2020.

Photo by SUMY SADURNI/AFP via Getty Images.

There have been numerous protests which have taken place in Uganda since last year. Students at Makerere University staged "Fees Must Fall" protests towards the end of 2019 while anti-governments protests against President Yoweri Museveni have been led by opposition leader Bobi Wine earlier this year, in the run-up to the 2021 presidential elections. More recently, activist Stella Nyanzi was arrested after protesting against the slow distribution of food during the country's lockdown.

Algeria, March 2020

People chant slogans at a weekly anti-government demonstration in the capital Algiers on March 13, 2020.

Photo by Billal Bensalem/NurPhoto via Getty Images.

Protests in Algeria began last year in February shortly after then President Abdelaziz Bouteflika announced that he would be running for a fifth term in office. While the statesman eventually stepped down, following a two-decade long rule, mass demonstrations continued every week thereafter with protesters demanding that his entire government step down as well. In March of this year, protesters called off the weekly demonstrations for the first time in over a year amid the COVID-19 outbreak.

Mali, April 2020

There have been ongoing anti-government protests in Mali as protesters call for political reforms and the resignation of current President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita. This comes after Malians headed to the voting stations in a long-delayed election this March. At least 11 people have been killed in the most recent protests where police and security forces used lethal force to disperse crowds of protesters. Both regional and international bodies have condemned the use of lethal force by the Malian government with the presidents of Senegal, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria and Niger set to meet with President Keita in the hopes of mediating the ongoing conflict. The West African country has been engulfed in jihadist conflict since 2012 and at least 600 civilians have been killed as a result.

South Africa, June 2020

There have been a number of protests in South Africa this year. However, the major demonstrations thus far have been in support of the Black Lives Mattermovement with specific reference to instances of police brutality and gender-based violence (GBV) in the country. Since the country's national lockdown began a few months ago, several Black South Africans namely Collins Khosa, Sibusiso Amos, Petrus Miggels and Adane Emmanuel, have been killed by the police and/or members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF). Additionally, the GBV and femicide crisis has also continued to worsen despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kenya, June 2020

Last month, Kenyans took to the streets to protest police brutality in the country which had claimed the lives of 15 people, according to a report by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA). The deaths were reportedly a result of a dusk-to-dawn curfew set in place to curb the spread of COVID-19. It is alleged that there had been numerous instances of law enforcement using excessive force and brutality.

Namibia, October 2020

Protesters hold placards while they gesture during the second day of the #ShutItDown Protests, where hundreds of Namibian youth protested against gender-based violence by shutting down Windhoeks Central Business District, in Windhoek, Namibia, on October 9, 2020.

Photo by HILDEGARD TITUS / AFP) (Photo by HILDEGARD TITUS/AFP via Getty Images).

Following the death of a 22-year-old Namibian woman named Shannon Wasserfall, who reportedly went missing in April of this year, Namibian youth have since taken to the streets to protest against gender-based violence (GBV). Dubbed the #ShutItDown protests, demonstrations outside government buildings have been taking place with young women, university students and high school girls at the helm. The Southern African country has reportedly recorded at least 200 cases of GBV every month.

Nigeria, October 2020

#EndSARS: Nigerian protests against police brutality.

Photo by Rachel Seidu.

Over the past few weeks, Nigerian youth have taken to the streets to protest against continued police brutality in the country. The #EndSARS protests have called upon President Muhammadu Buhari to disband the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) which has been implicated in the harassment, abductions, torture and murder of Nigerians since its establishment back in 1992. However, while there are reports that SARS has been disbanded, these are in conflict with other reports that the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, plans to reform the unit instead. Additionally, the 2020 protests are not the first. Protests calling for the disbanding of SARS in Nigeria were reported as far back as 2017.

From Your Site Articles
Photo by Timothy Norris

Trevor Noah is Working on a Novel

Following his exit from 'Daily Show,' Trevor Noah has landed a book deal that is slated to be released in the fall.

South African native and former host of The Daily ShowTrevor Noah, is slated to release a book this fall.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the book’s publisher, One World is describing the book, which will be a novel, as a “gorgeously illustrated and moving modern fable for readers of all ages about forgiveness, acceptance and the secret to solidarity.” Although reports state that the book does not have a title yet, it is slated to be released this fall, and will bear a similar themes to stories like Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and The Little Prince.

This isn’t Noah’s first time working on a book. In 2016, his book Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood became a New York Times Best Seller. The autobiographical comedy book candidly chronicled Noah’s story about growing up in South Africa as a mixed-race child, and the complexities that came with that.

Following his exit from The Daily Show, Noah has stayed busy. His most recent gig was hosting the 65th Annual Grammy Awards for the third consecutive year.

When he left The Daily Show, Noah shared a heartwarming farewell message to his fans.

"I'm grateful to you. Every single one of you," Noah said at the time. "I remember when we started the show, we couldn't get enough people to fill the audience... And I look at this now and I don't take it for granted, ever. Every seat that's ever been filled to watch something that I'm doing, I always appreciate it. "Thank you to the people who watch, the people who share the clips. Everyone who's ever had an opinion."

Noah shared with fans that he was ready to turn a new page with his career. Whether for reasons of evolving as a creative professional, or trying his hands on new ventures, one thing is for sure: Noah has become adept at crafting his narrative, and plotting out a trajectory that works for him.

Design
Photo courtesy of Rediet Haddis by Nafkot Ayele

Spotlight: Ethiopian Artist Rediet Haddis Is Her Own Cultural Muse

We spoke with the visual artist about the importance of identity and honoring forgotten cultures and the value they bring to society.

In our 'Spotlight' series, we highlight the work of photographers, visual artists, multimedia artists, and more who are producing vibrant, original work.

In our latest piece, we spotlight Ethiopian visual artist and designer Rediet Haddis. The fashion designer and architect is feeling her way through a human experience decorated in the brightest colors and has a keen understanding and appreciation for her East African culture. Haddis's experimental creative expression manifests as an ode to the ancient history and ideologies of the thinkers and creators who came before. Each garment and design carries significant context, marrying the realities of the past to the happenings of today through vivid colors, flamboyant accessories, and a deep desire to capture human emotion. Through her project Re:d Visuals, Haddis has poured her blessings onto the lane set to grant African artists the privilege of creating from the heart, for the people, and by the people.

We spoke with Rediet about experiencing Ethiopia's history and heritage through the lens of beauty and design.

Responses have been edited for length and clarity.


What was your first creation and how much have you grown since?

I would say my first ever creation was my first design in Architecture school. I made a glass house out of a cargo container, and I that helped me understand my intentions as a creative. Ever since then, I've slowly figured out what I want to represent and research when it comes to serving myself and my society with intentions.

What are the central themes in your work?

My art focuses on creating awareness around cultures that hold significant value in society even though sometimes they might be overlooked, overshadowed, and forgotten.

What is your medium of choice? Why?

I'm a visual artist, so I use mediums that prioritize sight and touch. I play around with mediums like fashion design, styling, set design, stage design, digital art, and hand painting.

What do you believe sets African artists apart from the rest of the world?

I believe all artists regardless of where they are from have significant distinctions as long as what they do comes from true intentions. As an artist from Ethiopia, Africa, I try my best to represent my background by researching the heritage and history of the people that came before me. By doing so, my art distinctly shines a light on what it is to be Ethiopian through my own experiences allowing me to have a voice and an opinion on specific norms.

Can you talk about your use of colors and accessories?

As a visual artist colors play a huge role in my career. I choose colors that would work best with a given project by experimenting with their combination until I land on something that makes sense to me. The same goes for accessories, by researching and collecting various elements, I play around with my collections trying to figure out the best composition.

What’s something you wish someone had told you at the beginning of your journey?

That it would be a very long journey ahead and that I would have to try time and time again to get to where I envisioned. But, again, I probably had that advice then. It's not so much about the destination anymore, but definitely about the journey.

Photo courtesy of Rediet Haddis

Ethiopian artist Rediet Haddis

Music
Photo by C Brandon

Senegalese Icon Baaba Maal Releases Music Video For “Freak Out”

Veteran singer Baaba Maal releases a new record called “Freak Out” featuring The Very Best.

In anticipation of his upcoming album Being—coming out on March 31—Baaba Maal has released a new track called “Freak Out” featuring The Very Best.

“Freak Out” will be the second track on Maal’s upcoming album. It is a vivid emblem of his musical expertise, and his ability to fuse both the past and present. On this song, Maal works with producer Johan Hugo, who fuses his electronic production with a uniquely modern African sound. The song unravels, and analyzes the world of social media, and how people navigate it. The record features Malawian singer Esau Mwamwaya, who is a part of The Very Best, a collaboration between London’s Radioclit and Mwamwaya. The Very Best has a sound that can be described as a fusion of an Afro-Western mix of dance, hip-hop, pop, and the traditional music of Malawi, and their sound flows seamlessly with Maal’s sonic exploration on “Freak Out.”

In a statement about the record, Baaba Maal delves into the message behind the song.

It became a song about being careful what you put on the internet. It might seem funny or popular when you do it, but it might have consequences and you will have to live with those all your life. There are things you should keep to yourself,” said Maal. “Mystery is important in life; you don’t need to shine a light on every little thing you do. You don’t have to give away your soul for the sake of a little bit of attention.

Maal further explained that his song is calling attention to the idea that the internet should be a force for good.

“The internet should be used to make humanity feel good about themselves. It is so powerful, it can be dangerous and sometimes it just seems the internet has just caused a constant freak out,” Maal continued.


The accompanying music video for “Freak Out” features candid scenes from Baaba’s appearance at Podor’s Blues De Fleuve festival appearance, and is both riveting and distinctive. Watch the David Darg-directed music video below.


Baaba Maal - Freak Out Ft. The Very Best (Official Video)www.youtube.com

Music
(YouTube)

The Best East African Songs Out Right Now

Featuring the latest music from Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and much more.

February was a fantastic month for music lovers in East Africa, as some of our favorite chart-topping artists released soulful ballads and fast-rising superstars gave us alternative R&B gems. From romantic love songs to upbeat dance tracks, the diversity of East African music that came out of this month was truly impressive. These bangers are must-adds to any playlist.

Keep reading...Show less

get okayafrica in your inbox

news.

Nigerians React To President-Elect Bola Tinubu’s Victory

After a contested election, Bola Tinubu was declared the winner of Nigeria’s presidential election. He will be the first Nigerian president to take office with less than 50% of the vote.

Nigeria’s Omah Lay Makes His NPR Tiny Desk Concert Debut

Nigerian Afro-pop sensation Omah Lay made his NPR Tiny Desk debut, with the support of some of his hit songs and a live band.

From Nairobi With Love, Wangechi Mutu Brings her Life’s Work to New York

We take you inside “Intertwined,” the New Museum’s massive survey of the Kenyan artist’s work, collecting together pieces from her twenty-five year career.

The Best Ghanaian Songs Out Right Now

Featuring the latest Ghanaian music from Black Sherif, Kuami Eugene, Stonebwoy, Kelvyn Boy and more.

popular.

Rwanda’s Protestant Council Bans Abortions in its Clinics

Rwanda’s Protestant Council recently barred all its clinics from performing abortions in its clinics.