AFRICA
In Uganda, Catholics protest as archbishop asks government to enforce tithe
Thousands of Catholics in one of the world’s poorest nations are objecting after the church asked the government to collect a 10 percent tithe from worshippers on its behalf.
Ethiopia Gets Its First Female President
Ethiopia’s parliament has made Sahle-Work Zewde the country’s first female president. And while the role is largely ceremonial, her appointment carries power in what it signifies.
Tired of war, South Sudanese pray for latest peace deal
Thousands of Southern Sudanese gathering in churches and various mosques across major cities and refugee camps to pray for their country, which has been embroiled in civil war since 2013.
Christian Surgeon who recites Bible and Quran to patients wins UN award
Dr. Evan Atar Adaha knows that faith matters to many of his patients. Before administering the anesthetic for surgery, he recites verses from the Bible or the Quran with his patients.
South African artist talks art, apartheid with US students
Dozens of students from a Brooklyn charter school are visiting South Africa to explore African cultures and South Africa’s journey from racial tension to reconciliation.
Uganda’s faith leaders wade into country’s alarming drug crisis
Drug and alcohol abuse in this East African nation has affected thousands. The situation has prompted faith leaders to intervene, urging the government to partner with the church to combat drug abuse among youths.
For deaf Tanzanians, places to worship are rare
Deaf Tanzanians have few options for worship. They say there is only one church where deaf people can worship through sign language interpreters.
Jazz isn’t dead: it’s just moved to new venues
South African jazz artists are now self-publishing their music at an increasing and unprecedented rate.
Bobi Wine case heightens tensions between Museveni and Uganda church leaders
Bobi Wine was detained by the government and allegedly tortured before seeking medical help in the United States.
Fear of Ebola keeps the faithful at home in Congo
Thousands of faithful in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo are staying home from church services to avoid contracting or spreading Ebola.
Banned from meeting in church, Rwandan worshippers gather at home
An estimated 8,000 churches and 100 mosques have been closed across this East Africa nation of 12 million people.
Christianity and Islam on the Rise in Africa, but Contend with Atheists
As Christianity and Islam are on the rise, small groups of determined atheists are challenging Africa’s grip on faith while seeking recognition and more followers.