Photo : BBC
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : BBC
TANZANIA
Women-led fodder farming strengthens drought resilience
On 11 June, Al Jazeera reported that Maasai women in northern Tanzania are turning drought-resistant fodder farming into a source of income and climate adaptation. The initiative, coordinated by the Pastoral Women’s Council (PWC), encourages women to cultivate resilient grass species that can be sold as livestock feed during dry seasons. The programme emerged in response to recurring droughts that have caused significant livestock losses across pastoral communities. Around 250 women currently manage fodder farms, while thousands of herders rely on the feed produced. Beyond supporting livestock survival, the project has improved household incomes, strengthened women's economic roles, and is increasingly being viewed as a model for building climate resilience in pastoral regions. ("Maasai women turn drought into income through fodder farming in Tanzania," Al Jazeera, 11 June 2026)
SOMALIA
Referee's World Cup exclusion sparks international criticism
On 11 June, Africa News reported that Somali international referee Omar Artan returned to Mogadishu to a hero's welcome after being denied entry into the United States despite holding a valid visa. Artan had been selected to officiate at the FIFA World Cup and would have become the first Somali referee to serve at the tournament. Following his exclusion, FIFA removed him from its list of match officials. The US administration cited alleged links to suspected members of terrorist organisations, while Somali authorities and supporters questioned the decision. The incident has generated international criticism and raised concerns about travel restrictions affecting participants in major global sporting events hosted by the United States. ("Somali football referee denied entry to US returns home to hero's welcome," Africa News, 11 June 2026)