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Under the Baobab

DW 42 Folgen Sep 11, 2026

Under the Baobab is a podcast that tackles Africa's toughest issues with real talk and real solutions. Hosted by Mimi and George, it features interviews with heads of state, youth leaders, and other guests on politics and social change. Each episode blends spicy insight with hopeful takeaways, audience voices, and candid conversation. New episodes are released weekly.

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Has the Multinational Joint Task Force failed Nigeria? Sep 11, 2026 30:00 He commanded the Multinational Joint Task Force and led the Nigerian Army at the height of the Boko Haram insurgency. Yet jihadist violence spread while military coups returned to West Africa. So what went wrong?

Should Ghana give its president more time in power? Sep 4, 2026 30:00 Four years or five? Ghana is considering major changes to its 1992 Constitution — and one proposal is already stirring debate: extending the presidential term.

Afrobarometer under scrutiny: Can Africans trust the data? Aug 28, 2026 29:59 Afrobarometer tells governments, journalists and the world what Africans think. But critics question donor influence, Western standards and possible bias. Afrobarometer CEO Joseph Asunka responds.

Why is Sierra Leone changing its election rules? Aug 21, 2026 30:00 Sierra Leone wants to change key election rules, including lowering the presidential threshold from 55% to 50%+1. The opposition is challenging the reforms in court. Will they strengthen democracy or weaken voter power?

Africa vs. AIDS: The 2030 deadline no one is ready for Aug 14, 2026 30:00 Donor funding slashed. Clinics closing. Prevention programs collapsing. With less than four years to end AIDS as a public health threat, Africa faces a brutal choice: fund its own future or watch decades of progress unravel. Under The Baobab confronts the leaders, the numbers, and the hard truth about who will be held accountable when 2030 arrives.

Can Zambians trust the electoral commission? Aug 7, 2026 30:00 As Zambian prepare to vote on August 13, the countrys' electoral commission faces one of its biggest tests yet: a new voter register, new constituencies, ballot security, campaign tensions and public questions over trust.

Peter Obi: 'I will not lose' — but can he deliver? Jul 31, 2026 30:00 Can Peter Obi unite a divided opposition, secure the country, confront IPOB and turn his promise of a "new Nigeria" into measurable results?

The Commonwealth in Africa: Real impact or empty promises? Jul 24, 2026 30:00 The Commonwealth of Nations says it is a champion of human rights and democratic values. But when member states face political crises, disputed elections and shrinking civic freedoms, does the organization do enough?

World Cup 2026: How can African nations' teams fix performance gaps Jul 17, 2026 30:00 The 2026 World Cup is officially in the books, leaving behind a fascinating puzzle for African football. Ten African teams arrived; nine made history by storming into the knockouts. But it was only pushed to the quarter-finals. As we analyze the performance gaps holding the continent back, we demand accountability: How will Africa truly benefit from the billions?

Are African migrants safe in South Africa? Jul 10, 2026 30:00 Many African migrants in South Africa with work permits, jobs and families, still fear for their safety. Can trade unions help tackle xenophobia, challenge the myths and address the real causes of unemployment?

Has President Tinubu failed to secure Nigerians? Jul 3, 2026 29:58 As schoolchildren remain at risk of kidnapping and communities live in fear, Under The Baobab asks the questions millions of Nigerians are asking: What's gone wrong? What are the solutions? And when will citizens feel safe again? In this episode, we sit Under the Baobab with Nigeria’s Defense Minister, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, to discuss the growing insecurity and how to tackle it.

Gen Z protests to aspirant: Can Boniface Mwangi lead Kenya? Jul 1, 2026 30:00 Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi joined Gen Z on the streets of Nairobi to protest against the Finance Bill 2024. Now he is asking for their votes. Recorded live at the Global Media Forum in Bonn, DW's Under the Baobab puts the outspoken Kenyan activist-turned-politician in the hot seat.

Goodluck Jonathan and the PDP's Nigeria 2027 election gamble Jun 12, 2026 29:59 Fresh cracks have emerged in Nigeria's PDP party as a faction nominated former President Goodluck Jonathan as its sole 2027 presidential aspirant. Abdullahi Ibrahim, PDP Deputy National Publicity Secretary, joins DW Under The Baobab to examine if Jonathan has what it takes to tackle Nigeria's pressing challenges.

Can Ghana's Black Stars deliver at the World Cup? Jun 5, 2026 29:58 Are Ghana's Black Stars ready to rise, or heading into another storm? Henry Asante Twum of the Ghana Football Association joins Under The Baobab for exclusive insight into what's really going on behind the scenes.

South Africa's 'xenophobia' crisis: How safe are Ghanaians? Mai 29, 2026 29:58 Is it xenophobia, a migration crisis, or a failure of African leadership? After South Africa's foreign minister insisted the country remains safe for Africans, Ghana's High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, joins us Under The Baobab to respond.

Who controls South Africa's streets? Mai 22, 2026 30:00 South Africa once depended on African solidarity during apartheid. Today, many Africans say they no longer feel safe there. Is this a migration crisis, xenophobia, or a deeper crisis of identity?

Rising xenophobia against Nigerians? Mai 8, 2026 30:00 Across the African continent, xenophobia has led to stereotyping, violence and sometimes death. Is the current spate of anti-immigrant sentiment in South Africa and Mozambique a sign of discrimination, weak diplomacy, or deeper systemic issues? Professor Jude Osakwe of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) joins DW's Mimi Mefo Newuh and George Okachi Under the Baobab to discuss.

Who's to blame for Cameroon's woes? Apr 30, 2026 30:00 Supporters say President Paul Biya stabilized Cameroon. Critics say he's stalled democracy amid long festering armed conflict and economic stagnation. So how does Cameroon move forward? Political scientist and Biya's ex-Minister of Forestry and Wildlife Elvis Ngolle Ngolle joins Mimi Mefo and George Okachi Under The Baobab.

Is foreign aid helping Africa or creating dependency? Apr 24, 2026 29:59 For decades, billions of dollars in development aid have flowed into Africa — to fight poverty, reduce hunger, and create opportunity. Is foreign aid helping Africa… or quietly keeping it dependent?

Is Morocco emerging as a major power in Africa? Apr 10, 2026 30:00 Since rejoining the African Union in 2017, Morocco has moved quickly to expand its economic footprint across the continent. As Morocco deepens its influence, some African partners question who truly benefits and on whose terms. Is Rabat building bridges for Africa, or redrawing the balance of power in its own favor?

Ghana's slavery reparations push: Who will pay? Apr 2, 2026 30:00 Western governments often argue that today's generations can't be held responsible for the crimes of slavery. But Ghana is challenging that narrative. After spearheading a historic UN resolution that formally recognized the transatlantic slave trade as "the gravest crime against humanity," Accra is now pushing for reparations, but can restorative justice truly work? Let's explore Under the Baobab.

Fighting to end suffering in Africa's conflict zones Mär 27, 2026 30:00 Humanitarian organizations like the Red Cross already deliver aid, medical assistance and some protection to civilians caught in war zones found in Sudan and the DRC. But can their efforts and neutrality be a path to ending fighting?

Is Zimbabwe's Mnangagwa eyeing a third term? Mär 20, 2026 29:59 A controversial constitutional amendment is shaking Zimbabwe to its core. Tensions are rising and turning dangerous. Critics like Prof. Madhuku narrowly survived an attack at a political meeting, calling it a chilling sign that the country's democracy may be at its lowest point in years.

AfCFTA at six — is free trade in Africa out of reach? Mär 13, 2026 29:59 AfCFTA was hailed as Africa's 'economic independence moment,' meant to unite 1.3 billion people, boost industry, create jobs, and reduce reliance on external powers. Six years on, intra‑African trade remains low, borders remain difficult to cross, and many economies still export raw materials. What has the AfCFTA delivered — and where has progress stalled?

Why are more Nigerians going hungry? Mär 6, 2026 30:00 Nigeria is racing against a growing hunger emergency as flooding and other natural disasters damage crops and disrupt food supplies. In this episode of Under the Baobab, we speak to Nigeria's Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs, Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu, about the government's response.

Could President Maada Bio become the new power broker for Sahel junta leaders? Feb 27, 2026 30:00 Military takeovers in West Africa have shaken the region. Sierra Leone's Maada Bio is stepping into a diplomatic role, but rising influence abroad raises tough questions at home.

Ghana's role in the new US deportation framework Feb 20, 2026 29:40 Under a controversial third-country arrangement, non-Ghanaians have arrived in Accra — sparking legal battles and constitutional questions. Is Ghana defending sovereignty, or reshaping its role in global migration policy?

Have some elections become an empty ritual? Feb 5, 2026 30:00 Africa has witnessed a troubling pattern: elections overshadowed by allegations of fraud, rising post-electoral violence, crackdowns on dissent, and leaders clinging to power for decades. Citizens and opposition movements cry foul while international observers warn of democratic backsliding. But are they doing enough?

Uganda's Museveni election victory: Democracy or deception? Jan 23, 2026 29:57 President Yoweri Museveni was declared the winner of the presidential election again, but many Ugandans are asking this was a true democratic choice, or a tightly controlled process designed to deliver a familiar result? Two opposing sides meet Under the Baobab to debate.

Tinubu's tax gamble: Progress or pain for Nigerians? Jan 16, 2026 29:56 Nigeria is home to 7,200 millionaires and three billionaires — yet tens of millions live below the poverty line. Schools are underfunded, hospitals are overcrowded, and infrastructure is crumbling. As Nigeria's billionaires' fortunes grew significantly in 2025, the question is not just how much wealth Nigeria has — but who is paying to fix the country, and who is not.

Uganda Election 2026: Change or continuity? Jan 9, 2026 29:50 Many Ugandans say President Yoweri Museveni would not win a free and fair election outright. But after four decades in power, uncertainty over electoral credibility, economic growth, and the potential for a transfer of power, remains bigger than ever. Lawyer and rights advocate Miria Matembe joins us Under the Baobab to dissect why the 2026 Ugandan general election matters more than ever.

Can the EU's new Sahel strategy win back trust? Dez 19, 2025 29:58 Europe says it's ready to listen again. But after years of broken partnerships and growing anti-Western sentiment, can the EU's new approach to the Sahel truly protect civilians and restore stability?

Why Biya's victory damages Cameroon's electoral integrity Dez 12, 2025 29:58 Cameroon looks calm — but the disputed election has shaken citizen's faith in the electoral system. Tomaino Ndam Njoya, the only female presidential candidate, joins us Under the Baobab, explains why there were no winners in Cameroon's election, and reveals surprising ways Cameroon's political elite can try to rebuild trust with the electorate.

Africa's urgent call for climate finance Nov 28, 2025 30:00 In this special edition of Under the Baobab, we uncover why African nations suffer most while contributing least, and ask: where is the money?

South Africa's boycotted G20 summit Nov 21, 2025 29:59 South Africa is hosting the continent’s first G20 summit, with debt justice high on the agenda. But what does the US risk by potentiall skipping this historic meeting? Zane Dangor, South Africa’s G20 chief negotiator, joins Under The Baobab to unpack the stakes.

Feed Salone Explained: Sierra Leone’s food security initiative under President Bio Nov 14, 2025 30:00 President Julius Maada Bio's government is celebrating the second anniversary of Feed Salone — a multi-million-dollar initiative — aimed at making Sierra Leone food secure. On the other hand, some Sierra Leoneans argue that the project is only benefiting a few. Economic and Planning Minister, Kenyeh Barlay, sits down Under The Baobab to explain the disparities.

Did Talib Bensouda betray The Gambia's opposition UDP party? Nov 7, 2025 29:52 His exit from the United Democratic Party (UDP) and the launch of a new political movement raise questions about his loyalty, transparency, and leadership. But what do Gambians really think of Talib Bensouda—can he deliver solutions to the country’s pressing problems?

Is COMESA fit for Africa's next trade revolution? Okt 31, 2025 30:00 As Africa pushes toward deeper economic integration, the role of regional blocs like COMESA is under renewed scrutiny. Once hailed as a cornerstone for trade and investment across Eastern and Southern Africa, COMESA now faces the challenge of staying relevant in a rapidly digitizing and competitive global economy.

Is Omoyele Sowore fighting for Nigerians or his political ambitions? Okt 20, 2025 30:00 Nigeria’s human rights activist Omoyele Sowore remains a relentless thorn in the side of the authorities. He’s faced multiple arrests and harsh crackdowns but still vows to confront Nigeria’s political elite, especially the current President Bola Tinubu. But is his crusade truly for the people, or his political ambition?

Uganda: Bobi Wine's strategy to win the presidency Okt 17, 2025 30:00 Bobi Wine's 2021 presidential run shook Uganda's political landscape. Though long-time leader Yoweri Museveni retained power, Wine's campaign sparked massive youth engagement and online mobilization. But can he do it again? And will Ugandans rally behind him this time?

End of an era? Cameroon’s Paul Biya faces unprecedented challenge Okt 9, 2025 30:00 After 43 years in power, President Paul Biya faces his greatest challenge yet: two former ministers breaking ranks to contest what could be Cameroon's most pivotal election. As one of the world's oldest leaders, does Biya have anything new to offer—or is his era finally ending? Jean De Dieu Momo, a staunch Biya loyalist and Minister Delegate to the defense ministry, says no.

Issa Tchiroma: Can he unseat Cameroon's President Biya? Okt 2, 2025 30:00 "I am the one capable of leading Cameroonians successfully in this unprecedented fight" - a bold claim from Issa Tchiroma Bakari, a former ally-turned-opponent of Cameroon's President Paul Biya. But can this longtime insider truly be the change the nation is desperate for?

Under The Baobab: Protecting South Africans or targeting Africans? Sep 25, 2025 30:00 Once a grassroots movement, Operation Dudula is now a political party on the rise in South Africa — promising to “fish out undocumented migrants.” But their reality is raids on migrant shops, hospital blockades, and violence that shock the continent. In Nelson Mandela’s rainbow nation of unity, is Operation Dudula defending South Africans — or fueling a dangerous divide among Africans?

After 2023, Can Nigeria's Labour deliver in 2027? Sep 22, 2025 29:59 Nigeria's 2023 election outcome left many disappointed, but will 2027 be any different? In this episode of The Baobab, Senator Nenadi Usman joins us to talk rigged votes, rising hope, and why she’s never run for president. But we ask, is Nigerias Labour ready to lead and are women finally being seen as serious contenders?

Eight years after Mugabe, has anything really changed in Zimbabwe? Sep 22, 2025 30:00 Eight years after Mugabe’s fall, Mnangagwa’s Zimbabwe is haunted by repression, fear, and division. Is the opposition failing, or is the ruling party too ruthless to be challenged?

Museveni's rule: Visionary leadership or monarchy in the making? Sep 19, 2025 30:00 With Uganda's 2026 elections approaching, President Museveni is confident of securing another term. He promises stability and a strong vision for the East African country. But are Museveni's decades in power a legacy or the making of a monarchy?

Nigeria: Fighting terror and separatism Sep 4, 2025 30:00 The Nigerian army claims the country is safer, but many citizens feel less secure than ever. With armed groups active in northern and southern states, and civilians caught in the crossfire, how do the authorities distinguish between separatists and terrorists? And how does the military plan to control them? Nigeria's army spokesman Tukur Gusau joins us Under The Baobab.

Is Africa's oil helping anyone but the powerful? Aug 29, 2025 30:00 Africa is abundant in resources — but who is truly benefiting from them? In this episode of Under the Baobab, NJ Ayuk doesn't hold back. From oil politics to private power, we ask: Is the continent’s wealth building nations or just billionaires?

Is accountability in Ghana reserved for the opposition? Aug 14, 2025 30:13 Ghana's president John Mahama says his government is fighting corruption, but critics say it's a witch hunt targeting rivals. Is this real reform — or political spin?

Reform or rhetoric? Tracking Barrow's record in The Gambia Aug 6, 2025 30:00 Once seen as a reformer, President Adama Barrow now faces public backlash over corruption, unfulfilled promises, and the controversial sale of former President Yahya Jammeh's assets. What do Gambians think of Barrow's record on reforms? Gambia's Minister of Information, Ismaila Ceesay, joins Under the Baobab.

Tanzania: Who is responsible for CHADEMA's woes? Jul 31, 2025 29:53 The future of Tanzania's main opposition party, CHADEMA, is in crisis after being barred from the October 2025 election — and from all by-elections until 2030. Is this a calculated move by President Samia Suluhu to silence dissent, or is CHADEMA crumbling under the weight of its own internal divisions?

'Tinubu is fitter than most world leaders' — Presidential Spokesperson Dr. Daniel Bwala Jul 25, 2025 30:10 Dr. Daniel Bwala, once the spokesperson for Atiku Abubakar during Nigeria’s 2023 presidential race, now serves as a key spokesperson for President Bola Tinubu. In this episode of Under the Baobab, Bwala explains why he believes Tinubu is one of the most capable leader on the global stage — and the right person to drive Nigeria’s economic transformation.

Why is Cameroon's Kah Walla absent from the elections? Jul 18, 2025 33:00 She once ran for president, defied the political establishment, and became a rare female voice on Cameroon’s national stage. But today, Kah Walla is unusually quiet. Is she walking away from politics — or preparing her boldest move yet? She joins us "Under The Baobab."

Under the Baobab Trailer Jun 30, 2025 00:32 Under the Baobab is DW's weekly vodcast where Africa’s biggest issues meet real talk, sharp minds, and bold solutions.