The ARC Insider

Finding the energy to be Green? Karen Allen and Tara O'Connor speak to one of the most dynamic women on South Africa’s renewable energy scene - Zanele Mbatha CEO of Bambini Energy.

« Wagner-in- Africa: what’s next for the mercenary group in the wake of the 24 June rebellion - a new ensemble or the same tune? We’re in conversation with CBS News’ Deborah Patta »

Africa tech and tech in Africa: How to make Tech Companies more accountable - could the answer lie in "Ubuntec”? In conversation with guest Nanjira Sambuli explains all as well as a canter through some news stories from across the continent - including Nigerian oil and South Africa’s muddled position on international justice and human rights with Tara O Connor and Karen Allen.

Taking the shame out of chocolate - We are in conversation with the ethical chocolate maker bringing "Gentle Farming" to Ghana

The inside story from a lead investigator on a major gold smuggling scam linking Zimbabwe to Dubai. Karen Allen and Tara O’Connor ask is it time for a Kimberly Process - which regulates so-called "blood diamonds" for "dirty" Gold?

Africa’s Russian Roulette. In conversation with Samantha de Bendern where we examine what’s driving the 'Russia-Africa relationship'. A round-up of news and current affairs from across the region, touching on elections, energy and shades of grey in the financial markets.

In the first episode of 2023, the ARC Insider hosts, Karen Allen and Tara O’Connor discuss the upcoming Nigeria Elections, African altruism in the face of the Turkey Syria earthquake, and rolling electricity cuts in Zambia. This episode's special guest is energy analyst Najim Animashaun.

In the 42nd episode of the ARC Insider, hosts Karen Allen and Tara O'Connor discuss the recent resignation of Eskom's CEO, Nigeria's denial of a Reuters report on a state-sponsored mass abortion programme in the northeast, and recent parole of SACP leader Chris Hani's assassin.

This episode's special guest is Imtiaz Sooliman, founder of the South Africa-based charity Gift of the Givers. He has orchestrated humanitarian efforts across the globe and negotiated the release of Stephen McGowan with Al-Qaeda in Mali.

In the 41st episode of the ARC Insider, hosts Karen Allen and Tara O'Connor discuss the recent extension of Chinese premier Xi Jinping's time in office, his choice of hardline cabinet, and the likely economic fallout for Southern African economies. 

This episode's special guest is Mundaula Kaunda, granddaughter of the late Zambian president Kenneth Kaunda and the marketing and events officer at the Trade and Development Bank (TDB). Mundaula shares her memories of her grandfather and reflects on his positive leadership.

The polling outfit Afrobarometer has been been taking the pulse of Africa's people for decades. Now we go behind the scenes with its CEO Joseph Asunka, in conversation with hosts Karen Allen and Tara O'Connor. Asunka shares his experience runnings polls across Africa as well as his thoughts on the myths about democracy in Africa, the ramifications of failed delivery from governments, and the importance of reforms.

Karen and Tara also discuss developments in West Africa with the recent military coup in Burkina Faso, as well as the electricity crisis in South Africa and Zambia's positive economic progress.