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With Bassirou Diomaye Faye, the youngest ever elected African president, serving as a symbol of youthful leadership, and a surge in young demographics increasingly prominent in mainstream politics, youth electoral activism is gaining momentum in countries like Ghana and Eswatini. These nations are experiencing renewed discussions and movements surrounding elections and civic engagement among the youth. With over a third of African countries heading to the polls in 2024, this trend is set to significantly impact the continent's political landscape. Esther Musembi, bird story agency 1. Hardi Yakubu – Nkrumaist activist and Pan-African organiser, Ghana Also known as Fighter-General, Yakubu is an activist and advocate for fundamental change in Ghana. With a background in sociology and project management, he mobilizes people for political, social, and economic transformation as coordinator of Africans Rising, a Pan-African movement. According to the Africa Report, Yakubu considers himself a Nkrumaist and envisions a united Africa that guarantees economic freedom for all people of African descent. 2. Aya Chebbi, Former African Union Youth Envoy, Tunisia A celebrated pan-African feminist, Chebbi was a leading advocate for democracy and garnered international recognition as a political blogger during Tunisia's Revolution in 2010/2011. She was a nominee in the 2019 Gates Foundation Campaign Award, and featured in Forbes' Africa's 50 Most Powerful Women and New African Magazine's List of 100 Most Influential Africans. Chebbi is the founder of Nala Feminist Collective, which seeks to bridge the gap between policy and implementation for women in Africa and in the diaspora. 3. Evan Mawarire - Zimbabwean pastor and democratic activist Known for the #ThisFlag movement, Mawarire was one of the leading voices in the 2016-17 Zimbabwe protests that challenged the rule of Robert Mugabe's government. He founded the #ThisFlag movement, a democracy movement in Zimbabwe, that was geared to oust the government of President Robert Mugabe. Mawarire was arrested multiple times for inciting violence, subversion, and trying to overthrow Robert Mugabe. He was acquitted in 2017. 4. Farida Nabourema - political activist and founder of the Faure Must Go movement, Togo Farida Bemba Nabourema is a Togolese activist who fights for human rights and democracy. She was particularly outspoken about and against the Gnassingbé dynasty. She is the executive director of the Togolese Civil League, and uses her writing and social media presence to condemn corruption, dictatorships, and inequality. Nabourema was a 2021 Inclusive Global Leadership Initiative (IGLI) practitioner and taught a course on "Resisting Authoritarianism in the Digital Age." 5. Alaa Salah - political activist, Sudan Hailed as the "Nubian Queen of the Revolution," and arguably one of the youngest activists currently, Salah gained prominence for her pivotal role in the 2019 Sudanese Revolution, which resulted in the ousting of President Omar al-Bashir from power. She emerged as a symbol of the protest movement when a viral photo captured her leading chants during the demonstrations, solidifying her status as an icon of resistance and activism. She was shortlisted for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2019. 6. Zineb El Rhazoui - Journalist, Morocco El Rhazoui is a Moroccan-French journalist and activist known for her advocacy for human rights and freedom of speech. She has been critical of authoritarianism and religious extremism in Morocco, which has seen her face persecution. El Rhazoui is vocal about Islam and its compatibility with human rights. 7. Manqoba Motsa - Political activist, Eswatini With a staggering 58% youth unemployment rate, discontent has been rising in this small African country, with political activist groups taking charge. At the forefront of one such movement is Manqoba Motsa, a senior college student, advocating for the abolition of the last constitutional monarchy. Political parties were banned in 1972 by the king’s father, making democracy impossible but independent candidates can still run, which makes Motsa’s work particularly important and urgent. 8. Wadi Ben-Hirki - Founder, Wadi Ben-Hirki Foundation (WBHF), Nigeria Through her Wadi Ben-Hirki Foundation (WBHF), Hirki is dedicated to providing education for underprivileged children through the Street2School initiative, advocating against challenges faced by marginalized girls through GirlsNotWives. She also supports survivors of the Boko Haram insurgency with LITMOW (Love in the Midst of War). Through her #NotTooYoungToRun and #ThePowerOf18 Campaigns, she advocates for youth and women's inclusion and participation in politics and governance. 9. Boniface Mwangi - Political activist, Kenya Popularly referred to as the People’s Watchman, Boniface Mwangi is a Kenyan photojournalist, activist, and politician. He is known for his advocacy against corruption, impunity, and human rights abuses in Kenya and covered the 2007 post-election violence through his Picha Mtaani project. He founded Pawa254, a platform for social and political activism through art and media. 10. Emmanuel Zulu - Zambian activist To raise awareness on transparency and accountability in leadership, Zulu embarked on a 255-mile walk from his hometown to Zambia's capital in November 2021. During his journey, he spoke to other young people, encouraging their active participation in shaping their government. Zulu embodies the belief that "there is nothing that can be done for you without you," highlighting the importance of marginalized groups taking charge to achieve their rights. Useful links https://www.theafricareport.com/341722/ghana-10-influential-youth-activists-shaping-the-electoral-climate/ https://www.ijr.org.za/2017/11/13/recognising-10-young-activists-who-are-doing-exceptional-work-towards-achieving-gender-justice-and-reconciliation-in-africa/ bird story agency

From heads of state like Samia Suluhu to influential diplomats like Bintou Keita, women are increasingly playing key roles in the continent’s politics and governance. From Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the first democratically elected female president in Africa, to Fatma Samba Diouf Samoura, FIFA's first female Secretary General, a new generation of women is paving the way. Esther Musembi, bird story agency With more than a third of African countries headed to the polls in 2024, African women are showing increasing interest in holding leadership positions, including the presidency. Their stories inspire resilience, determination, and visionary leadership, serving as beacons for future generations of female leaders across the continent. The following is a selected list of some influential women in African politics: 1. Sahle-Work Zewde, President of Ethiopia A distinguished Ethiopian diplomat, Zewde made history in 2018 by becoming the first female Ethiopian president. Before her presidency, she held prominent roles within the United Nations, including serving as Special Representative of the Secretary-General to the African Union and Head of the United Nations Office to the African Union. Sahle-Work's extensive diplomatic career also included leadership positions such as Director-General of the United Nations Office in Nairobi. She has been recognized for her contributions to peacebuilding and diplomacy across Africa. 2. Fatma Samba Diouf Samoura, Sec-Gen, FIFA Senegal's Fatma Samba Diouf Samoura shattered barriers in 2016 when she was appointed FIFA's first female Secretary General. After pioneering work in sports governance, she's now second-in-command to FIFA's president, Gianni Infantino. Formerly a Senegalese diplomat and UN executive, Samoura led humanitarian efforts in Chad and served in crisis zones like Kosovo and Sierra Leone. Her trailblazing career earned her top rankings on Forbes' Most Powerful Women in International Sports and she was included in the BBC 100 Women list as early as 2018. 3. Bintou Keita, Special Representative in the Democratic Republic of the Congo Serving with the United Nations diplomat in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Guinean diplomat Bintou Keita is one of the most influential women in Africa. With over three decades of experience, she has played pivotal roles in international diplomacy and conflict resolution. She served as the Deputy Joint Special Envoy for the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID) in 2018 and as Assistant Secretary-General for Africa in 2019. She is currently head of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO). 4. Emma Theofelus, Minister, Namibia At just 28, Theofelus is one of Africa's youngest female politicians and currently serves alongside another hugely influential woman - the country's acting president, Nangolo Mbumba - as Namibia's Minister of Information, Communication, and Technology. Before her political career, Theofelus was deeply involved in youth activism, focusing on gender equality, children's rights, and combating youth unemployment. She held leadership roles such as Deputy Speaker of the Youth Parliament and Junior Mayor of Windhoek. Namibia has plenty of young upcoming woman politicians; MP and former Secretary-General of the Namibia National Students Organisation (NANSO), Patience Masua is just 24. 5. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, Board Chair, Gavi Alliance, Nigeria With over three decades in politics and leadership, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala offers a wealth of influence and development experience. She has served as Nigeria's Finance Minister twice, notably from 2011 to 2015, during which she also held the role of Coordinating Minister for the Economy. In 2006, she served as Nigeria's Foreign Affairs Minister. Okonjo-Iweala has held pivotal positions at the World Bank, including that of Managing Director, further solidifying her reputation as a leader in global finance and development. She has been named by Fortune magazine as one of the 50 greatest world leaders and by Forbes as one of the 100 most powerful women for five consecutive years. 6. Samia Suluhu, President of Tanzania Popularly known as Mama Samia in East African circles, Suluhu made history as the first female president of Tanzania in March 2021 after the death of her predecessor, John Pombe Magufuli. Having begun her political journey in 2000, her tenure has been marked by notable for building a strategic emphasis on infrastructure development, regional partnerships and global dialogue. Prior to her presidency, Suluhu served as a minister and was Tanzania's first female vice president. 7. Mutale Nalumango, Vice President, Zambia Mutale Nalumango is the 14th Vice President of Zambia and one of only two women to hold this position. She previously worked as an educator and served as Vice-President of the Secondary Schools' Teachers Union of Zambia. Nalumango has held several prominent positions in Zambia's political landscape, including serving as Deputy Minister of Information and Deputy Speaker in Parliament. She was the first woman to hold the position of Deputy Speaker. 8. Mariam Chabi-Talata, Vice President, Benin Talata, 58, made history as Benin’s first female vice-president. A former teacher and school inspector, she joins a growing cohort of women ascending to higher office in sub-Saharan Africa, often advocating for feminist policies. Her appointment came in 2021, alongside the re-election of President Patrice Talon for a second term. She has been termed controversial for being pro-abortion which has since been legalised. Talata is an avid supporter of girls’ education, having founded Benin’s Progressive Union party to spearhead the same. She was nominated for the prestigious African Female Leader of the Year Award. 9. Jessica Alupo, Vice President, Uganda The ninth and current Vice President of Uganda since 2021, Alupo is a distinguished Ugandan politician, educator, and former military officer. Prior to her vice presidency, she held a prominent position in the Ugandan cabinet as the Minister of Education from 2011 to 2016. Notably, she’s the second female to hold the position of vice president in Uganda after Specioza Kazibwe. 10. Chief Justice Martha Koome, Kenya Koome took office in May 2021 as the 15th Chief Justice of the Republic of Kenya and the 3rd President of the Supreme Court of Kenya. She made history as the first woman to hold the office of Chief Justice since the establishment of the Kenyan judiciary over a century ago. Of note, Koome campaigned to repeal Section 2A of the Kenyan Constitution. The success of that campaign converted Kenya into a multi-party state and introduced term limits on the presidency. bird story agency Useful links: https://100women.avancemedia.org/ https://www.africa.com/7-africas-interesting-female-politicians/

Photos fascinated Angela Jimu as a little girl. Now in her forties, Jimu is today the co-founder of an association that empowers women in the photographic industry. That’s not all; her father's home country is also getting her attention. Regina Rumbidzai Pasipanodya, bird story agency Growing up in Harare, Angela Jimu would wake up early some mornings and lay magazines all over her bed. She had no idea what she was looking for; she would just gaze at the photos, or flip through the pages. Jimu was raised in Mufakose, one of Harare’s highest-density and oldest suburbs. Often, she would stay indoors, going through magazine pictures. “I just loved the magazine photos,” she said. As she grew older, she began to understand more about the profession behind the pictures. However, she was discouraged from ever thinking of photography as a career after being told that media was not a well-paying industry. So instead she pursued a career in public relations. Yet that same feeling that she had had as a child came back to nag at her. She felt she was missing something. It was time for a change. “I didn’t know what I was looking for, but now I took to heart what George Elliot said: ‘It's never too late to become what you might have been,” she said, launching into a description of her photography journey. The professional pivot came when, at around 30, she grew fond of the Canon DSLR cameras. Soon, she was hooked on making images and so began a whole new chapter of her life. 13 years later, Jimu calls herself a 'Canonite', the name she gave herself to describe her love of Canon cameras. “I normally move around with my 80D Canon and I am in love with the 50mm lens because of its depth of field,” said Jimu who is now a renowned visual storyteller, trainer, mentor, and coach for young photographers. With a mass communication qualification from Harare Polytechnic College already under her belt, Jimu studied photojournalism and documentary photography at the Market Photo Workshop in South Africa in 2010 and graduated with a Master of Arts in Media Management degree from the University of Westminster in 2015. “So I guess that was my destined path because when a friend told me about the Market Photo Workshop in South Africa, I was awed and sold. I knew that I had to take up photojournalism. Visuals have so much power to communicate and words can just be supplementary. So I wanted that freedom of supplementing my words with images,” Jimu explained. Excited at what her new journey had delivered and the opportunity to put her learning into practice, she hit a roadblock. "After studying Photojournalism and Documentary Photography in SA, I went back to Zim, excited to be practising. It was so disconcerting for me to find the field male-dominated. I felt small and I needed a support structure." Bewildered at first, it didn't take her long to find a solution. "While I was photographing an event, I bumped into Davina Jogi who also studied at the Market Photo Workshop and had just returned to Zimbabwe. We roped in others, including Nancy Mteki, Cynthia Matonhodze as founding directors, and Annie Mpalume as a founding member who had also been practising... that is how ZAFP was born,” Jimu said. They established the Zimbabwe Association of Female Photographers (ZAFP) in 2011. They officially launched the initiative in 2013 with an exhibition entitled "Shutter Opener" which was held in Harare. The ZAFP offers support, structure, opportunities, career advice, celebrating each other, and being there for its members. According to a document available on the homepage of their website, they offer 3 yearly membership fee options: students can access association benefits at US$15, amateur photographers at US$30 and professional photographers at US$50. “We have 17 active members. Others are dormant, so we don’t count them,” Jimu disclosed. Davina Jogi, co-founder and co-director of ZAFP noted that the association is a tool to encourage professionalism in the media profession as a whole. The association has introduced a female mentorship programme for younger photojournalists to further instil the ethics of photojournalism. “ZAFP impacted my career in two ways; one is my confidence that having people who are facing similar challenges and doing similar work because we managed to establish a platform to discuss our work contributed positively as I would spend more time with like-minded people who are doing similar work, and the second is the creation of opportunities for us as photojournalists. There were quite a lot of opportunities for us which contributed towards our visibility as a group as we could get gigs and other work,” Jogi added. Over the last 3 years, Jimu, Jogi and the rest of their team introduced the Annie Mpalume mentorship programme in celebration of Annie Mpalume, one of Zimbabwe's most prolific photojournalists and a member of ZAFP. Kudakwashe Ema Zihonye, 24, recently joined ZAFP and is studying Journalism, Media Studies, and Broadcasting at university. “I always refer to Jimu’s pictures as I admire her eye and touch for photography, I just want to learn that kind of skill,” she said. “ZAFP is a great initiative for women in photography which can refine their skills and also create opportunities for them in a male-dominated industry,” Zihonye added. National Association of Freelance Journalists (NAFJ) Secretary General, Eddie Makuzva, noted the challenge Jimu has taken up with other photojournalists is to create a space for women. “It will leave a mark in the Zimbabwe media landscape where women are regarded as followers,” Makuzva said. “She did something great and in Zimbabwe, as Jimu was part of NAFJ, we are seeing more women working hard to take up leadership positions in newsrooms. This should not end here as their work is no less than that of their male counterparts,” he added. After building a foundation for her new life journey in Zimbabwe, Jimu decided to stretch her expertise and talent into a neighbouring country. She moved to Malawi in 2019. “I moved to Malawi because I wanted to embrace my Malawian roots as my father was Malawian. I love Malawi as it has opportunities, and the people are warm and friendly. It is my home. Zimbabwe is also my home, as my mother and most of my family are there and I still have strong interests there,” she explained. Jimu credits 2023 as her best year ever, after she was selected as the Africa jury chair for the World Press Photo contest and as a jury member for several contests, including the Canon Female Photojournalist contest, the Ian Parry Photojournalism Grant, and Eugene Smith Student grant and a mentor for the Canon Student Development Programme. “I see my career taking a new trajectory as I am transitioning into more mentoring roles. I believe that the world's changing and one must change with it. One has to be versatile and multi-skilled," she said, in her role as a senior photojournalist. However, she has had her share of highs and lows, especially as a female journalist in a volatile Zimbabwe media industry. Despite living and primarily working in Malawi, Jimu sometimes gets apprehensive about photographic assignments, “given my experiences of being brutally assaulted and detained by the police while doing my job in Zimbabwe. The experience traumatized me. I have to remind myself that I am in Malawi and that thought makes me relax.” “But since I live in Malawi now a country that is more accommodative, in 5-10 years, I will make sure I contribute towards the establishment of the 'Centre for Visual Storytelling' in Lilongwe. It will be a centre that promotes dialogue, learning, and social change through visual literacy and visual storytelling,” she said. Jimu’s camera is always in her hand and Malawi has always been the place that manages to put a smile on her face. “The best experience was when I was mobbed by a group of children, shouting and what was common in whatever they were saying was the word,’ “Ndijambuleni,” and I knew what they meant. They were asking me to take photographs of them,” she said. One of the things that intrigued Jimu when she first moved to Malawi, was the use of the mbaula (charcoal cooker) in the cities. “I just could not fathom why people in the city had to use charcoal and yet they had access to electricity. I started doing some research and learnt, at the time that only 11% of the country was connected to the grid and about 65% of those in cities used charcoal because for them it was cheaper than using electricity,” Jimu said. She roped in two people and produced a documentary about the "charcoal economy." “It is a big industry with charcoal vendors, charcoal stove manufacturers, and everything in between. Coming from Zimbabwe, I was fascinated by the intricacies of the charcoal economy,” she added. As New Year's resolutions start to get ticked off lists, Jimu has decided that 2024 will be the year she takes each day at a time, with a few concrete plans already in motion. “There is always something different each day. So far this year, I have been working online, making preparations for the mentorship programme that we are starting soon at the Centre for Visual Storytelling ,” she concluded. bird story agency

The absence of female artists in Doosuur Tilley-Gyado's portfolio unsettled her. After her record label signed its fourth successive male artist, she took matters into her own hands - and has not looked back since. Kate Okorie, bird story agency The year was 2011, Ice Prince had already released his chart-topping song, "Oleku," featuring industry newcomer Brymo, and plans were underway for a music video. This would be a star-studded affair, featuring appearances by Wizkid as well as M.I. and Jesse Jagz, Ice Prince's label mates at Chocolate City, a Nigerian record label. But before plans were finalised, the music label received an unusual request. "Even though the Chocolate City crew members were scattered across the world, Ice Prince wanted all of us to be present for a cameo appearance," said Doosuur Tilley-Gyado, who had assumed dual roles as Talent Manager and General Manager at the record label two years earlier. It was a seminal moment for Tilley-Gyado and an important moment for the music business. While the six-man crew maintained poker faces for their brief cameo, Tilley-Gyado shared that it was a cherished moment for everyone there, given the amount of time that was spent working behind the scenes. "It was a form of documentation," she said. In her role, the key performance indicators (KPIs) revolved around sales, publicity and bookings, but she embraced additional responsibilities when they came. She vividly recounted hustling to engage marketers at the popular Alaba International Market, a major distribution hub for the Nigerian music and film industry. "In those days, media campaigns were very much a physical activity and Alaba was ‘the industry,’" she explained. These marketers were an organised group of traders who ran a large piracy market of CDs. This illicit activity gained momentum in the early 2000s and, ironically, became influential in determining the success of artists. These traders exploited the lack of structure and weak regulations in the industry. An old Financial Times article on piracy in Nigeria's creative industry reported that some artists paid to have their songs included in these pirated CDs to generate the hype needed for corporate sponsorship. "These marketers" owned distribution and the music business is about distribution," said Tilley-Gyado, at the time baffled that non-music entities could wield such control over the industry. Regardless, Tilley-Gyado made her mark in the entertainment public relations industry, propelling the artists under her management into the mainstream Nigerian music scene and global recognition. But the absence of female artists in her portfolio still unsettled her. Several industry experts have pointed to the financing landscape as a contributing factor to the low representation of female creatives, in addition to the general perception of females as high maintenance. Ibukun “Aibee” Abidoye, the first female executive vice president of Chocolate City, highlighted this in an interview with Teen Vogue. "When you think about the way record labels were set up, most of them were funded by personal earnings," she said. This dynamic, she explained, has led to a preference for male artists because they are viewed as low-risk. UNESCO's 2022 publication on the global creative industry reported a critical underrepresentation of women in the film and music industries, with fewer than 10% reported in some African film industries. Following the signing of Brymo, Chocolate City’s fourth successive male artist, Tilley-Gyado became very agitated. “I took matters into my own hands and conveyed to the label's founders that their next signing should be female,” Tilley-Gyado said. Her speaking up paved the way for female artists like Pryse and Victoria Kimani to come into the limelight. Providing a solution to this gender gap would further define Tilley-Gyado’s comeback to the entertainment industry after she left Chocolate City in 2013. "It felt like the right time. Also, Aibee had just come in, and I felt like the company was in good hands," she said about her decision to leave. After departing from the music label, she turned her attention to Redbox Ltd., an event planning company she had founded with her assistant in 2012. She followed it up four years later with Small Business Big World, a brand consulting and PR agency. Earlier in 2023, she was appointed as the chief operating officer of the PR firm, So.Me Solutions Group. “At this company, there's maybe two men pushing the company; the rest are women,” she said. It is one of Tilley-Gyado’s resolutions to work with more women. “I want to attract more like-minded women, like myself, to work with,” she said. This is one way she believes she can support younger creatives - something she believes there is not enough of the male-dominated industry. She noted that the absence of support manifests in multiple ways. In early 2023, Tilley-Gyado and other female creatives collaborated with the founder of Eden Venture Group, a social enterprise, to launch a campaign called #WEECreateAfrica. The campaign, a direct response to the gender gap in the industry, got its name from its objectives to foster women's economic empowerment at the intersection of the creative economy in Africa. “We believe that there’s a lot of synergies that exist that can help Nigeria and Africa in synergising solutions and creating awareness to essentially end some of the atrocities that women have to suffer,” Fifehan Osinkalu, the founder of the group, said, interview to mark the launch of the campaign. In addition to generating public awareness, wealth creation is another core aspect of the campaign. “In my previous role working in private equity and the VC space, I realised that most people, especially in the finance space, did not really understand the language of creatives, or even the language of women,” said Osinkalu in an interview with TechCabal. Tilley-Gyado explained that improving access to funds for women is crucial to strengthening their capacity at the decision-making level. She envisioned that it would generate broader positive outcomes. She cited the former Nigerian Minister of Women's Affairs, who invited her and various industry players to contribute to gender-sensitive policies. "If we have more women up there, then we can easily communicate our needs because they understand our perspective, facilitating the allocation of funds," she said. She further advocated for funding in the form of grants over loans. "Women are already late in the game, so we cannot afford to have loans with potentially crippling interest rates,” she said. Oluwatoyin Adegbite-Moore, executive vice president for Africa and Europe at EdTech company REACH, aspired to work as an artist but found the challenges for women in the industry too exacting. "Even though I had a rich voice, I never got the chance for, maybe, a duet," she said, referring to her time working as a backup singer. According to Angel Nduka-Nwosu, a versatile creative and founder of The Emecheta Collective, a WhatsApp group for female creators, initiatives like #WEECreateAfrica are vital to address gender-specific challenges in the industry, including protection against sexual predators. "By having women mentors who offer advice and tips for free, women are challenged to be better creatives without the risk of being exploited by men," Nduka-Nwosu explained. Today, Adegbite-Moore's three children are carving out their paths for themselves in the creative industry. During the recently concluded Africa Creative Market Conference, Ramin Toloui, the Assistant Secretary for US Economic and Business Affairs, projected that the Nigerian creative industry could generate $100 billion by 2030. "If we harness the entire value chain of the creative industry, then $100 billion is a conservative estimate. Women play a pivotal role in this value chain," remarked Adegbite-Moore, who wants to see improved funding models for creative enterprises in Nigeria. Tilley-Gyado believes that by pulling together, women in the creative industries in Nigeria can help this happen. “The #WEECreateAfrica campaign has a tagline called ‘Community over Competition,’ but it has also become a lifestyle for me. I relate to other black women, both as sisters and as friends,” Tilley-Gyado said. "It's so easy to help another young lady if you're relatable." bird story agency Useful links: https://www.ft.com/content/e9cdd214-bb16-11e3-948c-00144feabdc0

Mercy Makau’s love of flying knows no bounds. After founding a club for young aviation enthusiasts in 2012, she has expanded her engagement to mentor women in the industry. Cynthia Rotich, bird story agency It's a Tuesday morning at the Wildlife Club of Kenya and members of the Young Aviators Club of Africa are deeply engrossed in the Jamhuri Day celebrations, broadcast on a television in the premises. As soon as the military flypast begins, they excitedly gather outside to watch the display in the sky above. From the chatter, it is abundantly clear that they have a deep passion for flying - and for the country's air force. Back inside, the youngsters settle down for their first session with their trainer - an expert from Kenya's aviation industry who will coach and guide them towards their goal of becoming pilots. The session has been organised by Mercy Makau, an aviation industry insider who has played a pivotal role in promoting recreational aviation in Kenya. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, Makau is also a passionate advocate for gender equity in the aviation and aerospace industry. She has successfully established a social enterprise that provides an enabling environment for the youth while focusing on human capacity building and gender equity. “I advocate for advanced air mobility, reliable, quality and affordable aviation training locally. We build capacity for youths by providing an enabling environment and linkage under an age-relevant, progressive program from ages 4 to 27. Our core values are founded around passion, practice and excellence,” Makau shared. Makau possesses certifications and licenses - including a remote pilot's license - from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority and other institutions. Driven by a vision to empower young Africans, Makau founded the Young Aviators Club of Africa (YACAfrica) in 2012. Today, the vibrant community boasts over 60,000 members aged from 4 to 27. While aiming to ignite young minds with a passion for aviation, YACAfrica also fosters a culture of excellence through mentorship, STEM education, and engaging activities. “My dream is to see the African youth gainfully employed in the aviation sector in Africa because the future is Africa; Africa is the youth,” she explained. The club also recommends that young people volunteer with aviation companies to gain experience, explained John Apostle, who joined the club in 2019. “YACAFRICA brings together aviation enthusiasts of all ages, from young children to working professionals. Our members actively volunteer at events, gaining valuable practical experience through collaboration with aviation companies. This includes hands-on activities such as luggage handling, flying and even recreational events. Through these diverse experiences, we gain a deeper understanding of how the aviation industry works and develop a strong network of connections within the field,” Apostle explained. Makau's dedication to the Young Aviators Club goes beyond theoretical education. She believes in practical learning experiences and opportunities to engage with industry experts, enabling young aviators to gain insight and build valuable connections. “... A surge in youth participation, increased enrollment in aviation courses, and growing representation from diverse backgrounds point towards a promising future for the industry. Strengthened high school programs with qualified teachers and improved performance in national exams further demonstrate YACAfrica's commitment to excellence. Additionally, active participation in international conferences and recognition from prominent organizations like ICAO, KCAA, and KAA highlight the club's impactful reach,” Makau said. Since 2019 Makau has served as the founder and chairperson of the Association of Women in Corporate and Business Aviation. Through this initiative, Mercy aims to provide a supportive network and create opportunities for women in traditionally male-dominated aviation and aerospace industries. Makau organises mentorship programs, networking events, and training sessions, under the leadership and has created a platform for women to connect, learn, and excel in the industry. Makau was nominated for the prestigious 2023 Hall of Fame Women in Emerging Aviation Technologies Awards, which celebrates innovators, mentors, and leaders in the field, after previously being recognised by the Africa Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) and International Civil Aviation Organization - East and Southern Africa Region. Makau also serves as the chairperson of the Drone Club of Kenya and has significantly impacted recreational aviation club participation. Her dedication earned her a spot among 13 professionals nominated by the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC) to review Kenya's Drone Regulations. According to John Kuria, an aviation mentor and technical director, Makau is an inspiration for young aviation enthusiasts. “Mercy's passion for aviation is truly inspiring. She has worked tirelessly to overcome challenges and achieve her goals. Her dedication to mentoring others is equally impressive. She has helped countless young people reach their full potential, both in the air and on the ground…” Kuria noted. For her part, Makau is determined to ensure that young Africans keep taking to the air. "Those who dare hardly fail," said Makau. "I will continue flying in the uncharted skies." bird story agency

When Ompelege Moreosele's job as a receptionist didn't feel right, she tapped into early memories of her food-loving grandmother and switched careers. Now she's using those memories to make Botswana's food culture famous. Mmapula Molapong, bird story agency "My memories of food are very powerful. My earliest memory dates back to when I was about eight years old. I absolutely adored going to the farm with my grandmother, we used to get up really early in the morning on weekends to harvest vegetables, sorghum and maize,” said Ompelege Moreosele, who is better known both in Botswana and South Africa as food entrepreneur and author, Chef Cathy. So powerful were those memories that finding herself working as a receptionist after studying advertising, she chose to quit and start again, this time following her passion. Today, gathering ingredients from farmers around Gaborone for her food business, Moreosele regularly finds herself engaging with farmers through traditional greetings and customs, following the practices that her grandmother taught her. Food has become not just a livelihood but a way to honour the food and culture of her ancestors. Raised in Kalamare village, in the central district of Botswana, by a grandmother who prided herself on cooking food tied to the Tswana culture, Moreosele has embraced that legacy. "I enjoyed spending time cooking with her... She was well known by everyone in Kalamare for her fat cakes, mapakiwa (bread rolls) and serobe (offal)," Moreosele explained. Her grandmother would allow the young Moreosele to collect peanuts and maize for herself. She even gave her a small pot to cook what she had collected, using firewood for fuel. That would allow Moreosele's grandmother, who would be busy processing and packaging food she harvested from the farm, to work undisturbed. From time to time she would give the young Moreosele compliments, like “your peanuts taste really good” and “you grilled your maize very well”. “I developed a love for cooking through her encouragement,” Moreosele said. “I remember kneading the dough for fat cakes and peeling potatoes for her. I even enrolled in home economics and food and nutrition during my secondary school days because I really loved and enjoyed cooking.” However, her path deviated from her passion after completing high school - a development she puts down to a lack of career advice, She ended up taking an associate degree in advertising, then switched to business management. “I got a job as a receptionist but had a sense that my life was incomplete and that I needed to start again,” she shared. Moreosele then decided she was going to do what she loved, unconditionally. She would turn to cooking. She has never looked back. “I told myself that cooking is an essential skill. I saved up to do my certificate in food preparation and cooking with the Gaborone College of Culinary Arts and advanced into a diploma in culinary arts at Gaborone Technical College. It was the best decision I have ever made.” The academic and career milestones lit a fire under Moreosele. She wanted more. The realisation pushed her to pursue an idea she had ruminated over for years: to build a business selling spices made from locally sourced ingredients. “I was inspired by a South African chef, Chef Nti who is a chef but is venturing into other culinary arts businesses like manufacturing spices and sauces. I buy fresh herbs and vegetables, dehydrate them to dry, add some flavouring, sugar and salt and use a medium blender to blend everything together. Then I add oils and anti-caking. Lastly, I package, label and seal the bottles,” she shared. “The business started its operations in December 2022 and was born in my small home kitchen. With love and motivation, I was able to make rubs and spices in smaller batches,” she disclosed. Inspiration for the rubs and spices business came from cravings that originated in childhood - and almost a decade of experience in the food and beverage industry as a recipe developer. As Chef Cathy, Moreosele has a number of culinary awards under her belt that are evidence of her impact on the culinary world. Some major highlights of her career include being recognized and awarded the Best Sorghum Recipe FAO (Food and Agricultural Organisation of the United Nations) Indigenous People Recipe Unit, at the World Food Forum in October 2022 and an outstanding leadership award at the Intercontinental, Dubai Festival City Hotel in 2021. Her recipe book, Life on a Salad, won her an award at the Gourmand World Cookbook Awards in France, in 2021. Another high point was when the Botswana Investment and Trade Center (BITC) and the Botswana government provided her with a platform to showcase the nation’s food story at various events around the world. “We prepare and showcase traditional foods to international clientele and guests, at high-end events like Forbes Under 30 Africa, UN & African Summits, Global Expo Botswana, Dubai Expo 2020-2021, Saitex Expo South Africa, Kusi Ideas Festival, Rwanda, Kenya and Ghana," Moreosele explained. In recent years, the government of Botswana banned the importation of some horticultural produce, baked goods and other foodstuffs. The list continues to grow as the country tries to reduce its import bill and encourage self-reliance and industrialisation of these sectors as well as promote citizen economic empowerment. This has created opportunities for local producers. Moreosele currently produces mild chillies, an all-in-one rub and spice and a meat rub and spice. One spice bottle sells at 30 pula (about US$2.22), while a set of 3 goes for 90 pula (US$6.66). Food expert and pastry chef Precious Lesetedi noted that while the spice industry in Botswana is still in its infancy, it is a growing industry and could grow faster with government support. “If there can be a partial ban on importation of pastry products and fresh produce in order to boost local producers and farmers, the same can be done to aid growth in the spice industry,” she said. Moreosele has had some help from another quarter, however. Her brother, Fredrick Disenkeng, assists with events and also helps her with the spice and rubs business. He is in charge of packaging, sealing and delivery to customers in and around Gaborone. His sister's passion for food has also encouraged him to join the food business full-time. "The challenges that my sister encounters are last-minute orders from customers which then puts her under pressure as she will have to buy ingredients, organize transportation, organize labour if it’s something that requires more labour and all of this takes a lot of time to achieve," Disenkeng noted. Lesetedi also said she believes a local rubs-and-spices industry can be profitable, given the growing demand. “It’s seasoning. You can’t really prepare anything without seasoning it, from foods as simple as eggs to pot roast, some sort of seasoning is used and I can’t imagine the amount of money that local food production entities could make if they were the preferred suppliers of such spices which are a daily household staple,” she said. While the Botswana market remains small, Moreosele has found customers for her rubs and spices in South Africa and Zambia, through agents who sell on her behalf. Challenges still abound. “A challenge of making my rubs and spices is that some ingredients are not available locally like palm oils, so I end up using vegetable oils,” she said. Luckily, lessons from her grandmother and mentors on her journey have left her well-armed to deal with a wide array of challenges. “I have always considered myself a culturally aware person, having a grandmother who always taught me how to cook local traditional food. Meeting people from various walks of life truly changed my culinary worldview. Also, having a chance and the opportunity to meet and spend time with celebrities in big and small restaurants and reality shows has taught me that cooking involves important life skills, particularly patience, problem-solving, and creativity,” Moreosele concluded. Besides, giving up on the culinary world is not an option. Moreosele will be publishing her second recipe book in 2024 titled, A Simple Art of Botswana Sorghum, which promotes Botswana sorghum. She currently resides in Johannesburg, South Africa, where she will be providing recipe development consultancy services for unnamed food brands. bird story agency

Women continue to make giant strides in football with their inclusion in decision-making in Africa and around the world. Women are being seen regularly not only in boardrooms and dressing rooms but also on the pitch. Six women referees taking to pitches at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast will be building on a growing legacy for young women around the world. Joel Omotto, bird story agency With the introduction of the first African woman referee at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2021 and three more women referees at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the expansion of women into football decision-making continues in the Ivory Coast where a total of six women are officiating at the 2023 AFCON tournament. The six are among 68 match officials appointed for the delayed 2023 tournament, each of whom brings a wealth of experience. This marks a significant milestone almost unthinkable just five years ago. So, who are the six female referees officiating at the AFCON 2023? Salima Mukansanga Rwanda’s Salima Mukansanga broke the glass ceiling when she made history by becoming the first female referee to officiate an AFCON men’s game, at the 2021 AFCON tournament in Cameroon. Her impressive performance would see her make history again when she was selected among three women officiating at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, a first for the global tournament. A trained nurse, the 35-year-old will return to AFCON armed with more skills, having also officiated at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia, which was her second straight assignment at that event, following her debut in France in 2019. “It means you have a lot you are carrying on your shoulders. The rest will say ‘oh wow! Now the door is open, we can go through.’ It means you are opening the door to other women,” she told the BBC after her selection. Mukansanga, who has also officiated at the Olympics and the CAF Women’s Champions League, is highly respected among fans, who cannot wait to see her in the Ivory Coast. “We watched her performance in Cameroon two years ago and she was impressive. She is a no-nonsense referee and that is the character you want from match officials,” said Ahmed Diakite, a Mali fan. Akhona Makalima South African Akhona Makalima has seen her star continue to rise in the last two years and is set to make her debut at the AFCON. Makalima was thrust into the global spotlight when she made her maiden Women’s World Cup appearance last July 22, serving as the Fourth Official when Denmark took on China at the Perth Stadium in Australia. The 36-year-old has been officiating since 2014 with her international assignments including the CAF Champions League and the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. Makalima is highly respected in South Africa where is known for her no-nonsense approach to her work in the Premier Soccer League. “We are happy that we have one of our own at the tournament,” Bongani Zulu, a South Africa fan shares. “We will not just be watching Bafana Bafana but also monitor her performance and we are sure she will perform well. At the World Cup last year, she did well which is great marketing for Africa and women’s football.” Bouchra Karboubi Morocco’s Bouchra Karboubi is another debutant at the 2023 AFCON and the only woman selected to officiate in the final rounds of the competition. Karboubi is a trailblazer whose career is filled with ‘firsts.’ She became the first Arab referee to officiate at the Women’s World Cup last year when she took charge of the match between defending champions, the United States of America and Vietnam at Eden Park in Auckland, New Zealand. In 2022, the police inspector became the first female referee to officiate the final match of Morocco’s Throne Cup, having set a personal milestone two years earlier, when she became the first female referee to oversee a match in Morocco's top-tier professional football league, the Botola Pro 1. Diana Chikotesha Zambian Diana Chikotesha is taking over her first assignment in a men’s game but she has also enjoyed a meteoric rise. ‘Super Diana’ as she is commonly known in Zambia, served as an assistant referee at the 2023 Women’s World Cup and she will be at the centre of attention in the Ivory Coast again. Chikotesha, who started her career as a match official in 2014, saw her star shine bright in 2022 when she took charge of the CAF Women's Champions League, FIFA Women's U20 World Cup and Africa Women's Nations Cup. Rivet Maria Pakuita Cinquela Video Assistant Referees (VAR) have become the subject of discussion ever since the technology was introduced due to their somewhat controversial decisions and in the Ivory Coast, Rivet Maria Pakuita Cinquela from Mauritius is one of them. This is not her first assignment in the men’s game after being in charge of VAR in CAF Champions League matches such as the tie between Morocco’s Wyad Casablanca and Enyimba of Nigeria. She brings a wealth of experience after also serving as the Fourth Official at the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and VAR at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Carine Atezambong Cameroon’s Carine Atezambong will also work as an assistant referee in what will be her debut AFCON tournament. She had her big break last year when she worked on the 2022/23 CAF Champions League final between Morocco’s Wydad AC and Al Ahly of Egypt. She also worked as a video assistant referee (VAR) during the 2023 U17 Africa Cup of Nations in Algeria, including the final. She was also picked to officiate at the 2023 U17 World Cup in Indonesia. bird story agency

They may be small in stature but they're gigantic in performance and spirit and they’re having a massive impact, both worldwide and in Africa, where they are changing the lives of young women. Four former female running greats from Africa are ploughing back what they gained from the sport and investing in the future of African distance running. Stephen Granger, SPNA Derartu Tulu, the first African athlete to win an Olympic gold medal in female competition and now president of Ethiopia’s Athletics Federation; Kenyan marathon super-stars and former world record holders, Tegla Leroupe and Mary Keitany; and former half marathon record-holder and gold medalist, South Africa’s Elana (Meyer) van Zyl, are all deeply committed to empowerment programmes for female athletes in their home countries. Two of this extraordinary quartet, Keitany and Van Zyl, recently met in Stellenbosch and Cape Town in South Africa to inspire young women and share ideas and strategies to empower young women as athletes and in all areas of life. Keitany travelled from her home in the well-known distance running mecca, Iten, in Kenya to join Elana van Zyl’s Endurocad’s team during the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon’s festival of running and shared the story of her own life with eager young learners from Makupula High School in Kayamandi, Stellenbosch. The session also included girls from twelve other schools on the ACHIEVE programme at a workshop at the Cape Town Stadium. And with American technology super-executive and iron-man athlete Rhonda Vetere sharing the platform and adding inspirational words, the Kayamandi learners were soon redefining their life goals. “A doctor, a lawyer, an engineer, and a social worker” were some of their responses when asked what they wanted to do with their lives. “All of you have dreams and don’t let anyone stop you from dreaming; you have to follow your passion,” said Vetere. “And whatever you do, make it intentional and purposeful. But it won’t come easily. When I was your age, everyone told me I’d never make it if I studied math, physics and technology. But sport helped me achieve my goals.” Four wins at the New York City Marathon, three in the London Marathon (including a women’s only world record), a gold and silver medal at the world half marathon championships (the title came in 2009, just 11 months after the birth of her son) and a half marathon world record at the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon in the UAE were just some of Keitany’s achievement. “When I was in primary school, there was no transport to help me, so I ran 10km to school with no shoes and ran back in the evening,” Keitany told the girls. “But that made me into an athlete! My teacher recognised my talent and said, ‘Mary, if you run, you can be a good athlete’. “My father was a good runner and I wanted to run like him. But there was little support for me and it was always a struggle. Often, I went to school on an empty stomach, but that only made me more determined to succeed. After primary school, I worked as a domestic for two years, as there was no money for me to attend high school before I had a chance to go to high school. “During high school, there were some opportunities to compete abroad but I did not have the necessary documents. I would win the races, but I could not go anywhere. But I told myself, ‘my time is not yet’ and I knew my time would come. “I was determined to nurture my talent,” Keitany told the girls, “because it was in my dreams to be an international athlete. And it is important for you to know that nothing is impossible if you believe in it.” Keitany is a role model for aspiring young athletes in Kenya, where she is involved in mentorship and support programmes. “My hope for them is to be the women they are made to be. They can do anything that men can do; they just have to believe in themselves and do things in the right way. “Nothing is impossible. Be sure that you will make it. And know that what you are doing now in preparation will stand you in good stead for tomorrow. What you are doing will help you and your wider community.” Meanwhile, Van Zyl plans to reconnect with Tulu later this month following their emotional reunion at the Olympic stadium in Barcelona last year, the scene of their memorable 10,000-meter race at the 1992 Olympics, where Van Zyl took the silver medal behind Tulu. At that time, the two agreed to support each other in their work and Van Zyl will be flying to Ethiopia to follow up on that commitment. SPNA

As the globe gathers for COP28's first-ever Global Stocktake, Africa demands that the world's biggest polluters to fund the fallout of their actions. Seth Onyango, bird story agency African nations are intensifying their push for substantial climate finance from the world's biggest polluters as the 28th edition of the Conference of the Parties (COP) gets underway in Dubai. As the lowest overall emitter of greenhouse gases, the continent wants to ensure that the Global Stocktake (GST) - a key focus of COP28 - reflects its needs and priorities for climate adaptation, loss and damage, and access to finance and technology. The GST is a pivotal five-year inventory of progress under the Paris Agreement. Items on the inventory include limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, enhancing adaptation, and mobilising finance. African delegates will leverage their unique position as the least contributors to global emissions to champion a more equitable distribution of climate resources. This approach is finding resonance across the halls of the summit, drawing attention to the continent's dual narrative: as a minimal contributor to a growing climate crisis but at the same time, a major recipient of its impacts. After enduring a devastating drought, the Horn of Africa is now grappling with floods, causing widespread displacement across countries like Somalia and Kenya - focusing attention on the issues of climate change and warming. In February, Southern Africa was struck by Cyclone Freddy, the most prolonged tropical storm on record, resulting in the loss of over 1,000 lives. Central to Africa's agenda at COP28 is securing adequate funding for climate adaptation and mitigation, especially the US$100 billion to help developing nations, agreed during the Paris conference. According to the African Group of Negotiators' (AGN) chief negotiator, Ephraim Shitima, a just transition is crucial as African states seek to decouple their economies from fossils. The AGN is also calling for a recalibration of climate finance mechanisms, emphasising the urgent need for funds that address the immediate and long-term impacts of climate change in African countries. This includes infrastructure development, technological support, and capacity building to bolster resilience against climate-induced adversities. COP28 President Sultan Al Jaber in his opening remarks urged bold decisions on Global Stocktake asserting “we have the power to do something unprecedented.” “The science has spoken," Al Jaber told delegates. “It has confirmed the moment is now to find a new road, a road wide enough for all of us, free of the obstacles and detours of the past. That new road starts with a decision on the Global Stocktake, a decision that is ambitious, corrects course and accelerates action to 2030.” bird story agency

The combination of hard-earned Nollywood craft and Nigeria's fast-paced, well-organised and well-funded fintech ecosystem could prove to be a match made in heaven. Seth Onyango, bird story agency A bet by members of Nigeria's fintech elite on a feature film, "The Black Book" is paying blockbuster dividends, as the film strikes a chord with viewers around the world. The film has trended at number one on Netflix in countries as diverse as Greece, Israel, Jamaica, Kenya, Luxembourg, South Korea, Sweden and Nigeria, since its debut on September 26. This is the first time that leaders in the country's meteoric fintech startup space have "crowded in" to fund a film in Nollywood, Nigeria's famous film sector. The move would appear to be a blowout success. "It’s Nigeria day across the world and I want to introduce my non-Nigerian followers to the Black Book on Netflix. The Black Book or “The Revenge List” in some non-English titles has been Top 10 in 88 countries since release day; September 22nd, 2023," creative entrepreneur Editi Effiòng posted on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. "It has been No. 1 in 20 countries so far, including Nigeria and South Korea. No African movie has done this well on Netflix. Nollywood, our time has come." Film producer and Hot Ticket Productions chief executive Blessing Amidu told bird story agency that the fintech investors' foray into Nollywood marked a watershed moment for the industry. "It is always a welcome development," said Amidu, whose production house midwifed Nigeria's first feature-length anime, 'Lady Buckit and the Motley Mopsters'. Directed by Editi Effiong, the Black Book sheds light on a poignant narrative in which a grief-stricken church deacon, Paul Erima (portrayed by the seasoned Richard Mofe-Damijo) grapples with the complexities of justice, his faith and the desire for revenge. As he takes matters into his own hands to honour his son's name, he is plunged into a confrontation with a rogue police faction. Spotting the bullish surge of the African entertainment scene, fintech leaders leapt in, injecting hefty funding and propelling the Nollywood film to global acclaim. The film boasts high production value and quality, evident in the cinematography, sound design, and editing. It was co-written by Bukunmi Ajakiye and produced by Lala Akindoju and features a stellar cast of Nollywood talent, such as Ego Boyo, Joke Silva, and Segun Arinze. Since its debut, the film has received rave reviews from critics and audiences alike, who praised its gripping plot, strong performances and social commentary. It has also sparked discussions on the issues of corruption, justice and redemption in Nigeria. The fintech leaders who backed the film are some of the most influential and successful entrepreneurs in Nigeria’s booming fintech sector, which has attracted millions of dollars in investment and innovation. They include Gbenga Agboola, founder and CEO of Flutterwave; Kola Aina, founding partner at Ventures Partner; Olumide Soyombo, co-founder of Blue Chip Technologies; Nadayar Enegesi, co-founder of Eden Life; and Prosper Otemuyiwa, co-founder and CTO of Eden Life. Others are Adesunbomi Plumptre, co-founder of Volition Capital; Ezra Olubi, co-founder of Paystack; Odunayo Oweniyi, co-founder and COO of Piggyvest; Somto Ifezue, co-founder of Piggyvest; Joshua Chibueze, co-founder and CEO of Piggyvest. The fintech leaders have decided to venture into film as a way of supporting the creative industry and showcasing the rich and diverse stories of Africa to the world. They have also expressed their satisfaction and excitement with the film’s success and impact. bird story agency

When Edna Kaindi experienced hearing loss at a young age, she struggled to communicate with those around her. Today, she works with a community of sign language journalists and interpreters with a passion for equality. Her latest challenge? The 2023 Africa Climate Summit. Lynn Nyigothi, bird story agency In a world filled with perceived limitations about the deaf community, 26-year-old deaf journalist Edna Kaindi has made it her business to shatter those perceptions and shrug off any limitations. As a well-known TV journalist, her most recent achievement was covering the Africa Climate Summit held in Nairobi, Kenya in September 2023. Kaindi was not born deaf. She suffered an illness at a very young age, which led to hearing loss. As a child, Kaindi often felt isolated and left out, unable to play with other kids due to the communication barrier. Nevertheless, she was determined to live a full life. “The bullying, stigma, and loneliness at an early age did not stop me from dreaming, on the contrary, it propelled my desire to prove a point to the world that even deaf kids can become something big in the society,” Kaindi stated. Despite support and love from her mother and big brother, she still struggled to communicate with them and with many of the people around her. None of them knew sign language. “Joining primary school for the deaf was a relief for me because I finally got to interact with other children who were deaf, no one bullied me like kids at home did and I got to learn the Kenyan sign language,” Kaindi explained. Making friends and going to school contributed to her self-acceptance, even as she endeavoured to succeed and build a future. While Kaindi had always wanted to be an air hostess, life had different plans for her. She took up modelling when she completed high school and competed in the Miss Disability Kenya competition in 2018, surprising herself with a top placing. “I was sceptical at first to take part in the competition but my friend encouraged me to get out of my comfort zone and so I did it and became among the top ten,” she said. By this time, she had started attending make-up and fashion classes at a Nairobi-based college, where she developed an interest in make-up, something she still enjoys. “I enjoy making people look pretty, before my current full-time job, I did make-up to make ends meet, but stopped due to my busy schedule,” Kaindi stated. However, getting a job became difficult after school because of her disability. “Most employers find it hard hiring deaf people because of the communication barrier, so it was hard for me,” she explained. Once again, her determination shone through. Her persistence and high spirit landed her a job at Signs TV, where today she is fast becoming a household name. Initially hired to do adverts, Kaindi soon proved she had a lot more to offer, taking full advantage of on-the-job training at Signs TV as well as specialised training from the Media Council of Kenya. “I started doing advertisements for them in 2019, but that was on and off. They came to hire me on a full-time basis in 2020 and added me to other responsibilities like news anchoring and hosting shows. I have been there ever since,” she said. While Kaindi initially had some doubts about how viewers would receive a deaf journalist, her colleagues at the station provided all she needed to thrive in the position. “It was a great adjustment because I had never done this before, but I love being a journalist because I get to work with sign language interpreters who understand me well,” she stated. Kaindi now hosts the ‘Glamor Show’ in addition to her role as a news anchor, something she relishes and has been able to handle "even when tasks seem daunting,” said co-director at Signs TV, Jared Getanda. That was the case at the recently concluded Africa Climate Summit She was not familiar with some of the words used by delegates at the summit and had to quickly do further research and consult interpreters in order to understand and communicate the meaning of the terms, before delivering the news. “I did not know how to sign some of the difficult words, but the sign language interpreters helped me a lot,” she admitted. According to Kaindi, taking time to discuss some universally accepted signs for complex terms with interpreters made all the difference- both to her and to her audience. “Edna is very open and will always ask,” said Jedida Wafula, an interpreter at Signs TV. “It took us more time to prepare for news briefings as we had to ensure viewers who are deaf also understood climate change and the discussions around it, during the summit. It was hard on the first day, but after that, we managed because of teamwork, I am happy I got to learn things we usually take for granted,” Kaindi added. Kaindi called on stakeholders currently building the Kenyan sign language curriculum to include more technical and climate-related terms, even if they do not always form part of daily conversations, currently. “It is good for the deaf community to take part in discussions that also affect them and the world at large, deaf people need to be involved in climate action,” she explained. The climate event was also an eye-opener for the interpreters working alongside Kaindi. “It was mind-blowing and so unique, something I had not seen before. So, after high school my mum and my late dad persuaded me to explore it as a career option,” said Sharon Wambui, one of over 30 interpreters selected to work at the 2023 Africa Climate Summit. Born and raised in Nairobi, Wambui developed an interest in sign language while in high school after some visitors to the school delivered a presentation in sign language. After completing high school she spent six months learning and improving signing skills, ast a Christian school. “My teacher was deaf, this forced me to learn very fast as I used to interpret for him during devotions,” she said. According to Wambui many of these terms used at the climate event did not have sign names, leaving the interpreters to discuss amongst themselves the best signs to use as well as how to deliver explanations. “The main challenge was the relatively new climate terms. For example, 'carbon credit', 'carbon trading' and other terms in the climate space that would normally not come up in our day-to-day conversations,” she noted. “The fact that we worked in twos, threes and in other cases in fours or fives in one conference room made it easier as we supported each other and took turns,” she noted. “Simultaneous interpretation in such a technically charged environment is not always easy.” Wambui explained why until recently, the deaf community had largely been excluded from climate conversations. "Climate change issues are usually explained in difficult words, climate change issues are not insisted much on our media and our education systems, (and) we do not have climate change champions in disability at large,” she stated. In 2006, the UN General Assembly approved the Convention on Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPWD). which anctioned the inclusion of the deaf community through sign language in television broadcasts. Kenya ratified this convention in 2008 and called for the incorporation of sign language interpreters in mainstream media. As a result, sign language in television broadcasts was made a requirement. The mainstream media in the country embraced this move by incorporating interpreters, especially during prime-time news, to cater for the deaf community. Nadine Hellen, who suffers from a hearing disability, said incorporating interpreters in media has enabled the deaf community to keep up with what is happening in the country and around them. “I like the TV stations who have sign language interpreters even on entertainment programs because I get to enjoy without having to read subtitles,” she said. Hellen pointed to issues pertaining to language as one reason that the deaf community has struggled to engage with international events and broadcast content. "A majority of deaf people were born deaf, English is their second language and understanding complex words from interpreters is not easy, hence the message sometimes is ignored or distorted," she said. Further, the small boxes containing the sign interpretation on broadcasts can be too small, especially when interpreters use sign fingerspelling rather than signing. "The speed of interpretation sometimes is too fast, for instance, when fingerspelling words with no signs, TV interpreters don't fingerspell twice they only follow the speech and speed of the news host,” she noted. However, having deaf journalists delivering TV content has allowed her to build a far better connection to events and to TV shows. She also feels that deaf journalists give the deaf a voice in society. “Deaf journalists and sign language interpreters enable me to follow news on the television since they have a connection, (while) interpreters are voices to the deaf and when they interpret the hearing community understands deaf message as well,” Hellen said. Despite the challenges, Wambui believes that it is through difficult assignments that new signing develops. “No language is static, language evolves and changes by the day. This is not any different with sign language," she said. For Kaindi and her colleagues at Sign TV, that means challenging themselves, constantly. Something that Kaindi seems to have been ready for, since birth. bird story agency

With annual demand for mushrooms of 1200 tonnes and local production of only 500, a Kenyan mushroom expert with 35 years of experience is training young growers to become millionaires. Cynthia Rotich, bird story agency In a cosy workshop in Eldoret in western Kenya, Jackton Onyango Otieno, a down-to-earth, 62-year-old mushroom expert is completely engrossed in the delicate art of preparing a proper mushroom substrate. Around him is huddled a group of eager youths, taking in his every word. Judging by the regular smiles, Otieno's energy and passion for sharing his expertise is infectious and he clearly finds joy in sharing his expertise and nurturing the next generation of mushroom enthusiasts. Despite the sense of jollity in the workshop, however, there's a deadly serious reason why Otieno is keen to disseminate his knowledge as widely as possible. “Mushroom growing plays a crucial role in promoting food security because mushrooms are a nutritious source of food that can be grown quickly and efficiently. They require minimal space and can be a very lucrative venture if done well,” Otieno explained. In 1986, Otieno embarked on a journey to build a wider mushroom industry in Kenya by co-founding Eldoret Mushrooms; a pioneering enterprise in the mushroom business. From there he played a role in establishing other active mushroom farms around Kenya, with Eldoret, historically a farming town, now a focal point for mushroom farming, or myciculture, in the country. "Over 35 years ago, I was a farm hand at a mushroom farm in Eldoret and this is how I got introduced to the art of mushroom growing. From there, I have worked with several other farms all over the country and this is how I got to master the skill of mushroom growing," Otieno explained. Otieno now also oversees multiple, profitable mushroom production cycles at the University of Eldoret in a project he helped establish in 2018. According to Otieno, while mushroom farming in Kenya can be profitable, it is essential for farmers to gain the necessary knowledge and skills and apply the proper cultivation techniques to maximize profitability. Mushroom farming can play a crucial role in promoting food security because mushrooms are a nutritious source of food that can be grown quickly and efficiently, he said. They require minimal space and can be lucrative if the venture is well managed. “Mushroom growing is a very delicate process. It is important to seek professional help before starting the venture. The most crucial steps is the preparation of substrate and temperature monitoring in the grow houses. Farmers who invest in learning about best practices, proper cultivation techniques, and market trends are more likely to experience higher profitability," he explained. With agronomic conditions which are ideal for cultivating various types of mushrooms, Kenya is well-positioned to produce enough mushrooms to meet local demand and for export. “Mushrooms are versatile and the good news is that they can grow in any part of the country. The main conditions mushrooms require to grow are; a reliable water supply, shelter and stable temperatures ranging from 15 to 30 degrees. Button mushrooms are the most popular in Kenya because people like consuming them," Otieno shared. According to a survey conducted by the National Farmer Information Service (NAFIS), Kenya produces 500 tonnes of mushrooms yearly against an annual demand of 1200 tonnes. Due to the deficit, Kenya has to import from other countries like Rwanda, which has a significant presence in the sector. Otieno’s mission is to empower young people in Kenya by teaching them how to grow mushrooms, enabling them to become self-employed and successful farmers. His impact goes beyond teaching the skill of mushroom cultivation. He has actively partnered with various youth empowerment organizations, such as the Enable Youth Kenya Program, to reach a wider audience and provide comprehensive training to aspiring farmers. Kipkogei Chemitei, coordinator for the Enable Youth Program and also a mushroom expert, has worked with Otieno and has been able to witness his input in the industry. “In addition to contributing significantly to the University of Eldoret's mushroom production program, he has mentored numerous regional mushroom growers, earning recognition as the foremost authority in mushroom production. Mr. Onyango plays a pivotal role in training young mushroom growers through the ENABLE Youth program, where he serves as a consultant and facilitates the dissemination of mushroom production knowledge," Chemitei said. According to Otieno, mushroom farming is very lucrative and the capital required to start is relatively low. “You do not need a big piece of land to start growing mushrooms. You only require a small indoor space like a spare room to start production. This is why I encourage the youth, especially, to tap into this venture because you can be a (Kenya shilling) millionaire in just two months,” he explained. "With a quarter of an acre, it is possible to harvest over 1000 kilograms of mushrooms in one harvest. A kilogram of mushrooms in Kenya costs up to 600 shillings [about US$40]," he added. Over the years, Otieno has successfully trained and guided more than 200 young individuals, many of whom have gone on to establish their own mushroom-farming businesses. These young entrepreneurs have not only found financial success but have also experienced personal growth and fulfilment through their newfound skills. Janet Chepkoech, a mushroom farmer from Eldoret, is a graduate of Otieno's mushroom school. Otieno taught her the skill of mushroom cultivation, and she's been able to benefit financially from it. "Jackton has really changed my life. Thanks to his teachings, I have started growing and selling fresh button mushrooms from my farm in Kapsoya, Eldoret. I can't thank him enough for the financial benefits I've gained from this skill and the way he has been able to introduce me to this lucrative venture in agriculture," she said. "I am optimistic that I will become a successful mushroom farmer in the future. Jackton's teachings have instilled in me a sense of confidence and a belief in my abilities. I'm excited for the journey ahead and the possibilities that lie in cultivating mushrooms," said one of his students, Douglas Mutwiri. With Otieno's guidance, the would-be entrepreneurs are learning the techniques of cultivating different varieties of mushrooms, ensuring high-quality produce. “There is need to teach more people how to earn money through this venture because the mushroom demand in Kenya is still very high. My goal is to demonstrate how much potential the mushroom industry has,” Otieno concluded. bird story agency Useful links: https://www.kefaas.org/national-farmers-information-service/