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The Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan had the highest year-on-year increases in military spending in the world last year. It may appear justified because of the internal conflicts in both countries. Nan Tian argues, however, that high military spending has negative implications. It diverts resources from essential public services and increases the political power of the military – with far-reaching consequences.
When Senegal’s El Hadji Amadou Dia Bâ won a silver medal in the 400m hurdles at the 1988 Olympic Games, the historic achievement wasn’t just about his talent or commitment. It was also a testament to his country’s drive to develop its athletes to international levels. Senegal is yet to win another medal at the games, which Nalla Socé Fall explains is a clear sign that the country needs to rethink its current sports policies.
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Nan Tian, Stockholm International Peace Research Institute
High military spending can sap resources meant for education, healthcare and infrastructure.
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Nalla Socé Fall, Université Gaston Berger
For Olympic sports to thrive, the government must commit and find additional financing, notably through the private sector and sponsorship.
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Tracy-Lynn Field, University of the Witwatersrand
Deadly wildfires claimed the lives of 13 people in South Africa recently. Fires will increase as the climate warms. Landowners must stick to the law and try to prevent fires from starting.
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Joseph Siewe Fodjo, University of Pretoria; Stephen Raimon Legge Jada, University of Antwerp
River blindness and the black flies that cause it torment millions in west Africa. The “slash and clear” method is an effective way to eliminate them at source.
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Al Chukwuma Okoli, Federal University Lafia
The latest suicide bomb attack in Nigeria could be an act of desperation, a tactical shift or a form of communication by the insurgents.
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From our international editions
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Lyndsey Collins-Praino, University of Adelaide
Many people are questioning whether Joe Biden is up for the job of running for president again based on a series of recent verbal stumbles.
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Paul Griffin, The University of Queensland
We actually already have some vaccines against bird flu. But scientists are working on vaccines that could be adapted more easily as the virus changes.
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Justin Stebbing, Anglia Ruskin University
Music producer Benny Blanco claims that drinking a shot of olive oil before a night on the town can stop you getting a hangover.
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Bryce Dyer, Bournemouth University
The shoes have sparked controversy, but they seem to be here to stay.
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