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NL African 'Iron Lady' makes way for former footballer
After 12 years of bringing stability and some prosperity to Liberia, it is now over and done with for African 'Iron Lady' Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. She was the first African woman to succeed to power in 2006, after the country was ravaged by two bloody civil wars. During her presidency, however, Sirleaf managed to keep the peace in Liberia and received the Nobel Peace Prize along with three others. Sirleaf also brought about significant economic and social developments. But now she is succeeded by former footballer George Weah.
Political Café 26 January: What is the (un)sense of elections in Congo?
A sold-out Humanity House, passionate speakers and an impressive documentary. All the ingredients for a special evening were present on 26 January. And attention for Congo. There was no lack of that either.
A hopeful future for the Democratic Republic of Congo?
This Friday 26 January, Humanity House in The Hague will host a political café at 20:00 in response to the political situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Among other things, we will talk about the question of the (un)usefulness of elections.
Leadership change South Africa has two faces
"It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership." - Nelson Mandela
Volunteers wanted for Africa Day 2018!
The FMS's most fun event is just around the corner! On Saturday 14 April, the annual Africa Day will take place again, at the Royal Tropical Institute in Amsterdam. With some 1,500 visitors, speakers and volunteers, this is the largest public event on Africa and international cooperation in the Netherlands. This year's Africa Day is dedicated to change and the power of activism and civic initiatives in it. Besides the many debates, speeches and workshops by national and international organisations, there will of course also be time for relaxation and entertainment during the extensive cultural programme, with films, literature, art and music. To top it off, the sixth edition of "Africa at Night", the Africa Day afterparty for all volunteers, visitors and speakers, will take place in the evening.
Will 'mugabism' endure in Zimbabwe?
On 21 November 2017, there was a big celebration in Zimbabwe as the country was freed from 'mugabism' after 37 years. President Robert Mugabe stepped down against his will, seeing his wife Grace Mugabe's dream of becoming president dashed. Despite his resignation, a wave of uncertainty swept across the country after the celebrations. 75-year-old Emmerson Mnangagwa succeeded him as president and sees himself as a true democrat who wants to drastically reform the country. However, many doubt the democratic landslide he promises.
What is the (in)sense of elections in Congo?
Officially, Congolese President Joseph Kabila's mandate ended in December 2016. However, he did not resign. Across the country, Congolese people took to the streets to protest against this. Before that, the people protested that Kabila wanted to tinker with the constitution so that he could run himself for a third, unconstitutional term. In every protest, Kabila's regime cracked down, resulting in dozens of deaths and hundreds of political prisoners.
