In a historic move, Zimbabwe has abolished the death penalty, following a decision by President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Once sentenced to death himself, Mnangagwa's decision marks a significant shift in the nation's justice system. AfricaLink explores the reasons behind this change and its impact on Africa. Host Cai Nebe speaks to Amnesty's Lucia Masuka and Zimbabwe's Privilege Musvanhiri.

Cameroon has been gripped by a bloody conflict in its Anglophone regions since 2016, sparked by the brutal suppression of peaceful protests. The conflict has caused over 6,000 deaths and displaced more than 1 million people. Displaced women and girls are rebuilding their lives amid precarious conditions, facing domestic violence and resorting to negative coping strategies to survive.

The words 'next pandemic' are being thrown around by more and more experts watching the spread of avian influenza in North America. Why?

This year promises to be another season of mouthwatering football contests. There will be no shortage of spectacular soccer showpieces in 2025. A diverse array of premier events has been lined up for the players to shine and bank handsome prizes. As for the fans, they'll just sit back, watch, and celebrate the variety.

What is it about the sea that draws us in? From rugged cliffs to sandy shores, Tamsin Walker explores the ocean’s magnetic pull and the mysteries of its hold on us in this opening episode of our Naturally Connected mini-series.

Looking forwards, looking back with our correspondents in Brussels, Paris, Kyiv and Berlin. Plus a special feature-length focus on The West-Eastern Divan Orchestra at 25.

The African Union's inclusion in the G20 represents a significant shift in global governance and the continent's place at the big table. With concerns of the Global South often appearing to be ignored, will Africa's voice be capable of shaping policies that directly impact its future when it comes to issues like debt relief, and trade reforms like climate change?

Several global events will occur across Africa in 2025. Why should that matter to Africa, and how should it reposition itself amid global challenges?

In 2024, Kenya and Uganda both experienced civil unrest and protests, as citizens tried to hold their governments accountable. So what were the highs and the lows of 2024 in both countries? And what lies ahead in 2025? We're talking to Shikoh Kihika, a youth activist from Kenya and Frank Yiga, DW correspondent in Kampala, Uganda to assess why East African countries dominate the news agenda.

The year 2024 has been a turbulent one in Africa's hotspots and volatile regions like eastern DRC and the English-speaking regions in Cameroon. DW's Eddy Micah Jr. talks to Ivan Mugisha, a social and political commentator on the Great Lakes region, and Jean Marie Ngong Song, DW's correspondent in Bamenda, Cameroon.