Ghanaian politician and commentator Ras Mubarak* turns a critical lens on the long-standing regimes of Togo and Uganda—two nations where autocratic leaders masquerade as democrats by manipulating constitutions to entrench themselves in power. In this compelling piece, he not only exposes the cynical tactics of rulers like Faure Gnassingbé and Yoweri Museveni but also issues a rousing call to action …

One year after its launch, Germany’s Opportunity Card (‘Chancenkarte’) visa scheme is gaining momentum as a pathway for non-EU skilled workers to enter the country and search for employment. Introduced under Section 20a of the German Residence Act, the visa allows qualified third-country nationals to stay in Germany for up to 12 months to seek work or have their foreign …

Berlin’s district of Mitte has won a protracted legal battle to rename Mohrenstraße, a 300‑year‑old street long criticised for its racist connotations. On 9 July 2025, the Oberverwaltungsgericht (Higher Administrative Court) in Berlin‑Brandenburg dismissed an appeal by local residents, affirming last year’s ruling by the Verwaltungsgericht (Administrative Court) and clearing the way for the name change to become irrevocable. The …

Frankfurt will play host to the first-ever ASA WA Day, a vibrant celebration of Yoruba heritage, on Saturday, 12 July 2025. Taking place at Saalbau Griesheim, the event promises an immersive journey into one of West Africa’s most influential and enduring cultures. Organised by the Yoruba Heritage Art and Cultural Group in collaboration with Souls of Africa e.V., ASA WA …

The family of Sonia Omoroghomwan and Black organisations are demanding a thorough investigation into her death in a Berlin psychiatric hospital, as multiple pieces of evidence contradict the official account of the young woman’s passing, reports Amal Abbass. The death of 25-year-old Sonia Omoroghomwan in a psychiatric hospital in Berlin has raised serious questions – not only about the circumstances …

The European Union’s cherished Schengen system, which guarantees passport-free travel across much of the continent, is facing mounting pressure as more member states reintroduce internal border controls. The latest move comes from Poland, which has announced it will temporarily impose checks along its borders with Germany and Lithuania starting next Monday. Currently, 11 of the 29 Schengen countries are operating …

African Book Festival will once again turn Berlin into a vibrant meeting point for literary voices from the African continent and its diaspora. Under the theme “In Other Worlds,” the festival will take place from 18–20 July, offering three days of readings, panels, performances and powerful discussions on African storytelling in all its genres and dimensions. Organised by InterKontinental, the …

From 24 July to 3 August 2025, Berlin will once again host the vibrant KENAKO Africa Festival — but this year at a new location: Washingtonplatz, directly in front of Berlin Hauptbahnhof. Despite the move from its traditional home at Alexanderplatz, the festival promises the same rich blend of African music, art, culture and dialogue that has made it a …

Germany’s federal parliament, the Bundestag, has voted to suspend family reunification rights for refugees with subsidiary protection status for two years — a controversial move that has drawn sharp criticism from human rights groups, churches and opposition parties. The suspension, which primarily affects Syrian refugees, marks the first step in a series of planned reforms by the federal government to …

As a new month begins, so do new laws and regulations in Germany. From higher pensions and wages to updated tax deadlines and simplified care benefits, July 2025 brings a range of changes that affect millions of people in the country. Whether you’re retired, working in healthcare, caring for a loved one or filing your taxes — it’s important to …