This week's biggest stories from the Global South: Ghana's first 5G network, marriage decline in China, Mexican judges resign
This week's roundup covers impactful and inspiring news from Africa, Latin America, and Asia, from groundbreaking innovations to significant political developments.
Africa
Ghana launches first 5G network, aims to become West Africa's digital hub
Ghana has launched its first 5G network, marking a significant step in its digital transformation and economic growth. Developed by Next-Gen InfraCo, this network promises faster connectivity and better coverage. Read more here.
Tanzania aims to lead as food hub in East Africa
Tanzania plans to become a regional food hub, aiming for self-sufficiency in food production and supplies. President Samia Suluhu Hassan announced this during a roundtable in Des Moines, USA. Read more here.
32 Nigerian minors charged with treason over 'End Bad Governance' protests
Thirty-two Nigerian minors, aged 14 to 17, face treason charges after participating in the August "EndBadGovernance" protests. The protests, highlighting economic hardship, called for reinstating the petrol subsidy, food security, and fiscal discipline. Read more here.
Asia
Despite bans, firecrackers sizzle across India for Diwali
Firecrackers are central to Diwali celebrations for millions of Indian Hindus. Despite bans in cities like New Delhi to curb pollution, the festival, honouring Lord Rama's return, was celebrated on Thursday, November 31. Known as the festival of lights, Diwali symbolises the triumph of light over darkness, explaining the importance of fireworks. Read more here.
Thailand to grant citizenship to nearly 500,000 migrants and minorities
Nearly 500,000 migrants, including 142,000 children and individuals from ethnic minorities and indigenous groups, will be granted citizenship by the Thai government. This move aims to help these groups contribute more easily to the economy. Read more here.
Marriage registrations in China drop for the first nine months of 2024
China recorded a drop in marriage registrations for the first nine months of 2024, with 4.747 million couples registered, a decrease of 943,000 from the previous year. This comes as the country implements measures to address declining population levels. Read more here.
Latin America
8 Mexican judges resign after controversial reforms
Eight of Mexico’s 11 Supreme Court justices have resigned in protest of reforms allowing citizens to directly elect all judges. The resignations take effect on August 31, 2025, following a national election on June 1, 2025. The bill, proposed by the federal government, was approved by the Senate with 86 votes in favour and 41 against. Read more here.
Brazil surprised by Venezuela's 'offensive tone' as diplomatic row escalates
The Brazilian foreign ministry expressed surprise at the "offensive tone" from Venezuelan authorities, calling it a departure from the respectful treatment Brazil extends to Venezuela. Earlier this week, Venezuela recalled its ambassador over "interventionist and rude statements" from Brazil, also criticising President Lula's top foreign policy advisor, Celso Amorim. Read more here.
Magnitude 5.6 earthquake strikes Argentina's Mendoza region, EMSC says
A magnitude 5.6 earthquake struck Argentina's Mendoza region at a depth of 120 km, according to the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre (EMSC). Read more here.
