Up Front - VOA Africa

On this fresh, fast-paced show VOA's Jackson Mvunganyi talks to teens and young adults about politics, trends, lifestyles, health, entertainment, and other issues touching listeners’ lives.

For more on Upfront visit www.upfrontafrica.com

A Facebook AI chatbot named Liv, introduced as a Black queer mama of two, offers companionship and answers questions with a strikingly personal touch. Washington Post columnist Karen Attiah explored this digital creation, uncovering unsettling ethical questions about AI-driven personas and Meta’s intentions in deploying them

This week, we discuss the growing impact of the African diaspora on the local film industry. Did you know that the diaspora is not only a key audience for African films but also a driving force behind their creation? By producing and consuming these stories, they’re helping to amplify visibility through word-of-mouth, community events, and social media. This dual role is fueling investments, improving production quality, and fostering local talent across the continent. Joining us on the show is Sierra Leonean filmmaker Mahmoud Jobe to discuss his latest project, Redemption Games, alongside the film’s executive producer Hawanatu Kamara and veteran actor David Vandy. Plus, we’ll hear from Namibian storyteller and director Perivi Katjavivi about the exciting developments in Namibia’s budding film industry and his critically acclaimed feature Under the Hanging Tree.

This week, we discuss the growing impact of the African diaspora on the local film industry. Did you know that the diaspora is not only a key audience for African films but also a driving force behind their creation? By producing and consuming these stories, they’re helping to amplify visibility through word-of-mouth, community events, and social media. This dual role is fueling investments, improving production quality, and fostering local talent across the continent.

Joining us on the show is Sierra Leonean filmmaker Mahmoud Jobe to discuss his latest project, Redemption Games, alongside the film’s executive producer Hawanatu Kamara and veteran actor David Vandy. Plus, we’ll hear from Namibian storyteller and director Perivi Katjavivi about the exciting developments in Namibia’s budding film industry and his critically acclaimed feature Under the Hanging Tree.

Ghanaian American writer Esinam Bediako discusses her new novel, Blood on the Brain, a tale that follows Akosua, a young woman recovering from a concussion. In our second conversation, Kaliza, a first-year student at the University of Maryland Baltimore County, shares her firsthand experience navigating the challenges and opportunities of student life in 2025. From adjusting to academic demands to embracing personal growth, Kaliza provides thoughtful advice for students around the world as they embark on their educational journeys.

Ghanaian American writer Esinam Bediako discusses her new novel, Blood on the Brain, a tale that follows Akosua, a young woman recovering from a concussion.

In our second conversation, Kaliza, a first-year student at the University of Maryland Baltimore County, shares her firsthand experience navigating the challenges and opportunities of student life in 2025. From adjusting to academic demands to embracing personal growth, Kaliza provides thoughtful advice for students around the world as they embark on their educational journeys.

On this fresh, fast-paced show VOA's Jackson Mvunganyi talks to teens and young adults about politics, trends, lifestyles, health, entertainment, and other issues touching listeners’ lives.

For more on Upfront visit www.upfrontafrica.com

Nasozi Kakembo, author of The African Decor Edit, highlights how mainstream design often overlooks the cultural depth of African décor. She describes it as more than a style—it's a celebration of identity, tradition, and craftsmanship. In her book, Kakembo shares the artistry of African design, honors artisan contributions, and advocates for transparency and respect in sourcing heritage items.

This week, we are joined by Mathias Mpuuga, a Ugandan Member of Parliament and former Leader of the Opposition, along with prominent Ugandan lawyer Ivan Bwowe, who recently observed the U.S. elections. Together, they will share their reflections on the electoral process in the United States, highlighting key lessons they believe can strengthen democratic practices.

Mpuuga and Bwowe commend the independence and professionalism of U.S. electoral workers, emphasizing their critical role in ensuring transparency and trust in the electoral system. As Uganda prepares for its 2026 elections, Mpuuga underscores the urgent need for reforms aimed at enhancing fairness, credibility, and public confidence in the electoral process. Their insights provide a valuable perspective on how global democratic principles can inform and inspire local electoral practices.

Brian Ahimbisibwe's story is a reminder on World AIDS Day of the importance of awareness, openness, and support for those living with HIV.