Death threats and exile: Local environmental defenders are the front line of the climate crisis - protecting the land they live on when it’s threatened by powerful business interests. But as the battle against climate change grows more intense, it’s becoming an increasingly dangerous role. Global Witness recorded 227 killings of land and environmental defenders around the world in 2020, including 18 in Africa. Alfred Brownell is an environmental lawyer and activist and was forced to flee his home in Liberia for his own safety, after mounting threats from people opposed to his work.

Produced by Mary Goodhart

‘The fire has gone out’: African evangelists are working to revitalise Christianity in Europe, a continent that is increasingly turning away from religion. Harvey Kwiyani grew up in Malawi, where church was central to daily life. It was only after he left for Switzerland that he realised how different the religious landscape was in Europe. He’s part of a new generation of African missionaries trying to bring God back to Europe.

Produced by Kim Chakanetsa

Grief without closure: Tens of thousands of families in Africa live with the agony of a missing loved one. Kenny Chikonka disappeared without trace nearly 30 years ago. His family have been searching for answers ever since.

Produced by Mary Goodhart

“He just starts touching me”: The grim and lonely reality of sexual harassment in the workplace, through the eyes of two women in Kenya. As an intern, Lupita* was excited to start a new role but she quickly had to come to terms with unwelcome sexual advances. Sofia Rajab wanted to find a way to shatter the silence around sexual harassment within the legal profession. Her solution? Dear Law - a podcast that takes a frank look at the issue.

Produced by Kim Chakanetsa

Unpicking stories that matter to you. The Comb returns on 28 January 2022

Scams, hustles, and cyber fraud: What happens when you think you’ve struck gold, only to lose it all? Cryptocurrencies are on the rise in Africa, but as more people get on board, cyber criminals smell an opportunity. Vivienne and Daniel both thought they were making sensible investments for their families. But hope and excitement turned to devastation when they learned they had handed their savings to scammers.

‘I am African first’: Exploring race and identity for South Africans of Indian descent. Karnie Sharp has spent years discussing the complex crisis of identity that many feel in modern South Africa. In the wake of rising tensions between communities, and vitriolic statements from some political leaders, how can people from different backgrounds build bridges with their fellow citizens?

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‘The evil you have done is enough’: One year after the EndSARS protests, some young Nigerians say they no longer recognise their country and are choosing to leave. Olivia, Tolu and Benjamin contemplate joining their friends who are now scattered across the world.

Lurking in the lake: What’s driving hippos to attack and kill fishermen on Lake Naivasha? As climate change alters our planet, animals and humans are coming into conflict, competing over the same diminishing natural resources.

Produced by Mary Goodhart

The vendor who changed Malawi: Mayeso Gwanda took the state to court after his arrest for an outdated and vague petty crime. While he was successful in changing the law, the African Union is calling for more to be done. Enforcing these sorts of minor offences leads to lifelong consequences for the continent’s most poor and vulnerable people.

Produced by Rob Wilson