By Dr. Cynthia Mwau

A fear as old as innovation

From the advent of mechanisation in the 19th century to today’s fast-paced advances in technology and innovation, there has always been one persistent fear ~ will machines take our jobs? This question, which was previously a quiet concern, is now the talk of the town across all borders, income groups, professions and cultures. Digitisation and automation hit differently across different scenarios.

By Dr. Williams Miller Appau

From “Dumsor” to Distributed Power: A Quiet Revolution in Ghana’s Cities

Ghana’s rapidly expanding urban centres—particularly Accra and Kumasi—are placing unprecedented strain on national infrastructure, with the energy sector under the greatest pressure. As demand surges and urban lifestyles grow more energy-intensive, grid instability and persistent outages (“dumsor”) continue to disrupt daily life and economic productivity. Yet, amid these systemic challenges, an unlikely leader is emerging: the modern shopping mall.

By Dr. Precious Joan Wapukha and Prof Nubi Timothy

Sudan’s history is defined by protracted war and conflict. The civil war of 1955 to1972 followed by another from1983 to 2005, between government and Sudan people’ Liberation  Movement and the enduring Darfur crisis since 2003 have resulted in one of Africa’s most sustained humanitarian catastrophes. This civil strife culminated in South Sudan’s secession in 2011 and displacement of millions. 

By Dr. Mwende Mbilo

New research is unlocking safer, lead-free materials to power Africa’s clean energy future

Africa gets more sunlight than almost any place on Earth, enough to power the whole continent many times over. Yet millions of people still lack reliable electricity. From rural homes to schools and hospitals, getting energy is a daily struggle. Solar power seems like the clear answer, and it is growing fast. But as more panels are installed, an important question is often ignored: what are solar panels made of, and are those materials safe?