This episode locates mental health within human rights promotion and protection. Malawi based clinical psychologist Dr Mathero Michelle Nkhalamba joins us to unpack the issues surrounding mental health in communities that have in the past or are experiencing different forms of human rights violations. She draws attention to the challenges human rights defenders face in doing the brave work they do advocating for social justice, and tables strategies for individuals, organizations and communities to build mental resilience. 

The epsiode explores the role of the law in protecting the human rights of womn in Namibia. We discuss the challenges of ensuring that the law is applied fairly and impartially, regardless of gender, and the impact of new technologies on the protection of human rights. We also speak into the role of civil society in promoting and strengthening the application of the law in the the protection of human rights. The rich and intersectional lens provided by the Minister of Justice of Namibia, Yvonne Dausab, provides great insights on the subject. 

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is facing a shrinking civic space, with human rights defenders (HRDs) increasingly targeted by threats, harassment, and attacks. This is due in part to the ongoing violent conflict in the region, as well as the government's crackdown on dissent. Franck Kamunga joins today's episode to the reflect on the context and its impact on the scheduled elections. The episode also explores recommendations on what different stakeholders must do ahead of the elections. 

Today's episode deep dives into the life of Tanele Maseko, a human rights defender from eSwatini. She is the widow of Thulani Maseko, a widely celebrated activist who was murdered in his home on 21 January 2023 by suspected state agents. Her story and journey is one of resilience, and mirrors the inspiring commitment and passionthat drives human rights defenders. Who even when the challenges seem insurmountable, continue to fight for what they believe in, like a flame that refuses to be extinguished.

This episode draws attention to Zimbabwe, reflecting on the role of national and local government in safeguarding the civic space. Our guest is the Mayor of Harare, Jacob Mafume, joining us to unpack the impact the government has had on the civic space. We close off with recommendations on best practices. 

The June episode is set against the backdrop of the June 16 youth day commemoration in South Africa that recognizes the role of young people in the Soweto uprising in South Africa in 1976. It features Zambia's Honorable Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, Fumba Chama and reflects on his transition from the creative arts and civic space to leadership in government. We put a spotlight on how he continues to engage CSOs in his new role as a government official.

This episode unpacks the 2023 Freedom in the World Report. Freedom in the World is a yearly survey and report by the U.S.-based non-governmental organization Freedom House that measures the degree of civil liberties and political rights in every nation and significant related and disputed territories around the world. Tiseke Kasambala, the Africa Programs Director at Freedom House, joins us to discuss the key findings of the report, paying particular attention to the Southern Africa Region.