East African Officials in Europe to Learn from Euro’s Successes and Failures

Representatives from the East African Community are in Brussels to learn from the successes and failures of the attempts at political and economic integration in Europe.

Taarab Music from Zanzibar

Taarab is a popular style of music in East Africa.

Drought Ravages Parts of East Africa

Seasons of failed rains is causing millions in East Africa to face starvation.

What Constitutes a Famine?

Why scientists and people in the food aid world disagree on labeling the food crisis in East Africa as ‘famine?’

Devastating Drought Sends Somalis Across the Border to Kenya

The drought gripping East Africa has put more than 10 million lives at risk.

Digging for Chinese culture in Kenya

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Scientists from China are on the way to East Africa in June, to prepare for a massive archaeological excavation. The Chinese government is funding a three year search for Chinese cultural heritage on the coast of Kenya, in some half-dozen sites both underwater and on land. China is highlighting the ancient cultural ties between the two countries as its commercial power blossoms across the region. Matthew Brunwasser reports from Lamu, Kenya. (Photo: Matthew Brunwasser) Download MP3

• China pledges funds for Kenya infrastructure
• UNESCO World heritage site: Lamu, Kenya

Drought in East Africa

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A lack of rain and political unrest is threatening East Africa with starvation. Kenya is one of the hardest hit areas. Anchor Marco Werman finds out more about the severity of the food crisis there from humanitarian adviser Nicholas Wasunna.

DDT use provokes political battle in Uganda

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The pesticide DDT, long banned in the United States, has made something of a comeback in Africa. DDT can be an effective weapon against malaria. The U.S. government, and the World Health Organization are encouraging African countries to use the insecticide, and say it is safe when handled properly. But in the East African nation of Uganda, DDT has provoked a fierce political battle. Reporter Alison Hawkes traveled to northern Uganda.

Apollo 11 computers, net cables for Africa, and bamboo bicycles

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Finally, Technology Podcast 251 is ready for your earbuds. We have a great line-up. First, we hear about the “beatniks and little old ladies” who, quite literally, wove together the Apollo 11 computer systems 40 years ago. We’ll also take an in-depth look at the undersea fiber-optic cables that went live in East Africa, and how it might affect Internet access on the continent. And we’ll end with bamboo bicycles from Zambia.

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