🎬Last Resort

Good morning. Last week, paleontologists discovered a trail of dinosaur footprints in South America and Africa suggesting the existence of a pre-historic highway that once connected modern-day Brazil and Cameroon. The prints date back ~120 million years and were discovered simultaneously by two scientists researching the footprints on opposite ends of the ocean. Both scientists say the discovery has led to a blossoming friendship between them.

Thought to share in case you’re looking for creative ways to make new connections.

— Geraldine Ndzomo, Chibuike Uzor

WILDLIFE

Namibia is turning to its animal reserves for survival

If you’re looking for a new culinary experience, especially with protein, a trip to Namibia might just be what you need. More than 700 animals, especially hippos and elephants have been marked for slaughter to feed the hungry, as the arid Southern African region battles its worst drought in years.

About 84% of the country’s food reserves have been exhausted because of the drought, with nearly half the country’s 2.5 million population expected to suffer from starvation during the lean season from July to September, according to the UN.

Why is the drought happening?

Southern Africa is living through its most severe drought in decades with Namibia, Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Zambia all declaring drought emergencies.

Rising temperatures in the region have led to lower-than-usual rainfall, even in the middle of the rainy season in February. A combination of the El Nino phenomenon and (yes, you guessed it) climate change is driving the current dry spell.

The ladies aren’t enjoying the weather. The drought has also increased the risk of violence against women and girls, the UN said. Women and girls who usually fetch water for their families are having to travel longer distances, making them more vulnerable to assault. Communities living close to the animals also say they are starting to bear the brunt of their tempers, with over 33 deaths and 55 animal-inflicted injuries since 2019.

Environmentalists sound the alarm. Animal welfare organizations are not happy. Groups have launched a petition against the Namibian government, calling it out for allowing the hunters to shoot the animals for a fee. The government, however, insists that the money raised - about $500,000 - will be used to improve water supply in Namibian national parks. GN.

AFRICA

Headline Quickie

• Kenya to Dominate East African Investment Deals: Kenya continues to assert its position as the leading hub for investment in East Africa. The country has attracted significant attention from both local and international investors even in the wake of protests that led to the withdrawal of its controversial finance bill. President Ruto has disclosed that the treasury is actively seeking new revenue sources but may have to rely on increased external and internal borrowing to address the budget deficit.

• Eswatini Joins Critical Minerals Africa Initiative: Eswatini has officially joined the Critical Minerals Africa (CMA) initiative, which is focused on mapping and developing the continent's mineral resources. The country is seeking foreign investment to explore and extract critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements. This move is part of a broader effort across Africa to harness the continent's rich mineral reserves, which are essential for the global transition to green energy technologies.

• African Digital Banking Revolution: Somalia is at the forefront of a digital banking revolution in Africa, with institutions like Salaam Bank leading the charge. The country has made significant strides in digital finance, transforming its economy and providing greater financial inclusion. This trend reflects a broader shift across the continent, where digital banking is rapidly growing, driven by increasing mobile phone penetration and innovations in financial technology.