Editor's note

Introducing mobile money as a way of extending the frontiers of financial inclusion has been phenomenally successful. But there have also been unintended consequences. Being able to transact on a mobile phone has contributed to the rise of gambling addiction in Africa. Victor Odundo Owuor warns that governments need to recognise the scale of the problem that’s been created, particularly among young people on the continent.

Within days of Winnie Madikizela-Mandela’s death, a documentary called “Winnie” was broadcast on one of South Africa’s television stations. It caused an uproar, with critics arguing that it was one-sided because it presented only her perspective on contentious aspects of the country’s history. Liani Maasdorp argues that the criticism missed the point: documentaries aren’t the same as news reporting and don’t need to provide a balanced view of their subject matter.

Julie Masiga

Peace + Security Editor

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Young people in Africa are getting addicted to online betting through their mobile phones. Shutterstock

The uneasy relationship between online betting and mobile money transactions

Victor Odundo Owuor, University of Colorado

Mobile money transfers have been a great asset. But the rise of online betting could threaten its contribution.

Winnie Madikizela-Mandela being laid to rest. In death, as in life, she divided opinions. EPA

Why the film 'Winnie' met all the criteria of a good documentary

Liani Maasdorp, University of Cape Town

Society expects journalists to report objectively. But a documentary filmmaker has an opinion.

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