It's a Continent

In this episode, we delve into the world of cobalt, a critical material in the production of rechargeable batteries, especially Lithium-ion batteries that power our everyday devices such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, and electric vehicles.

On 1st December 1944, the French army opened fire on West African soldiers in Thiaroye, a suburb in Dakar, Senegal. These African soldiers previously fought for France during World War II, some even becoming prisoners of war in the process.

Quite often – and misleadingly, Liberia is referred to as one of the only two African countries that were not colonised. Whilst Liberia was not carved up by Europeans in the Scramble for Africa, the country was actually founded by the American colonisation society, and many freed black Americans were sent to live in Liberia, despite living in America for generations.

Around 15 million clothing items flood Accra, Ghana every week, mostly from Europe, North America and Australia. These items are mostly donations to charity bins, or cast-offs that are no longer needed. 40% of clothing received in Ghana is unacceptable for use, ending up as waste.

Our book baby It's a Continent celebrates her first birthday and is out in paperback this week! We're marking this occasion with a replay of our Behind the Mics episode. We're joined by Juliana from No Shame in My Name Podcast, where she interviews us (on our own show - why not!)

Known as Africa's 'secret paradise,' the Comoros Islands are located in the Indian Ocean. Whilst it is is an independent state, the nation faces challenge concerning Mahoré, the fourth island - as it remains under the administration of France, effectively creating an EU border.

We're joined by Chef, Entrepreneur, and Author Maria Bradford. Maria was born in Freetown, Sierra Leone, where her passion for food emerged. This passion led her to found the Sweet Salone (which means ‘fancy’ in Creole) catering business. We discuss how food can provide a unique narrative for understanding Sierra Leone, explore African fusion cuisine and fine dining, and delve into her emotional journey back to her grandmother's village...

The West's treatment of refugees has become one of the most devastating human rights disasters in modern times.We’re joined by Andrei Popoviciu (@AndreiPopoviciu), an independent investigative journalist, reporter, audio producer, and photographer based in Dakar, Senegal. There are countless misconceptions surrounding the refugee crisis, and migration from the Global South to North...