Author: Shortone
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Murder of gay South African imam Muhsin Hendricks reignites queer Muslim debate
Amanullah De Sondy, University College Cork Dubbed the “world’s first openly gay Imam”, South African religious leader Muhsin Hendricks was gunned down on 15 February 2025 in an attack that many believe was targeted. Tributes have poured in across the world, but so have online comments that his death was justified. His passing intensifies a…
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Michael Mosoeu Moerane was a pioneering composer in South Africa. A new book is restoring his place in history
Gwen Ansell, University of Pretoria Composer and educator Michael Mosoeu Moerane (1904-1980) is probably best known for a few evergreen choral works, including Della and Sylvia, still sung by choirs across South Africa today. And, of course, for his orchestral piece FatŠe laHeso (My Country). It had the distinction of being recorded by both the…
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Fourth industrial revolution in South Africa: inequality stands in the way of true progress
Zama Mthombeni, University of Pretoria In his 2019 State of the Nation address, South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that he was creating a commission on the fourth industrial revolution (4IR). The term refers to the integration of advanced digital technologies like AI and robotics, as well as automation, into various economic and social domains.…
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AI in Africa: Empowering Entrepreneurs
Picture this: you’re sipping on a cup of tea, enjoying the warmth of the sun , when your friend Sipho joins you, energized and brimming with excitement. He’s just returned from a tech conference, where he was inspired by the limitless possibilities of artificial intelligence (AI). With his eyes twinkling, Sipho shares his dream of…
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Eswatini Poultry Farmers: Prepare for Avian Influenza
The recent global surge in Avian Influenza (commonly known as Bird Flu) is a serious concern for poultry farmers in Eswatini. This highly contagious disease, primarily affecting birds, can have devastating consequences for the local poultry industry and the livelihoods of farmers. Understanding the Threat: Avian Influenza is a viral infection that can spread rapidly…