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A fossil discovery in Taung, South Africa 100 years ago changed how scientists thought about human evolution. It was followed by a number of important fossil discoveries in the area dubbed the “cradle of humankind”. These finds sparked a debate that rages on today: exactly how old are South Africa’s Australopithecus africanus fossils? Francis Thackeray explains how studying the fossilised teeth of hominins (ancient human ancestors) may have provided an
answer.
Tanzanians will vote in local elections this year, followed by a general election next year. These elections are significant. They follow a series of reforms introduced over the last three years under President Samia Suluhu Hassan to widen the democratic space in the east African country. A ban on opposition rallies was lifted last year and new electoral laws have been passed to make the political process fairer. However, Aikande Clement Kwayu notes that real
structural change has yet to happen – and explains what still needs to be done.
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Francis Thackeray, University of the Witwatersrand
Using a method applied directly to ancient hominin teeth, researchers have calculated the age of several important fossils.
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Aikande Clement Kwayu, Tumaini University Makumira
While the space for opposition campaigns in Tanzania has widened, it still isn’t enough to facilitate free and fair elections.
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Abayomi Awelewa, University of Lagos
Challenging oppression, advocating for justice, and inspiring social change are the hallmarks of Soyinka’s life.
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Xichavo Alecia Ndlovu, University of Cape Town
The majority of South Africans want government to regulate the mining industry more tightly to reduce its negative impact on the environment.
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From our international editions
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Arie Perliger, UMass Lowell
A scholar of political assassinations says the US just narrowly avoided plunging into wholesale violence and potential civil war when Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt.
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Serag El Hegazi, University of Bradford
Israel has approved its largest seizure of land in the West Bank in over three decades.
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Nick Fuller, University of Sydney
When we’re trying to lose weight and the number on the scales drops rapidly, it seems like we’re on the right track. But losing weight too quickly can cause the loss of muscle, as well as fat.
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John Gradek, McGill University
Can Boeing overcome its current challenges and regain its reputation as a winning corporation?
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