Author: Chukwu Godlove
Bridges are far more than steel and stone. In Africa, they tell tales of colonial ambition, border disputes, daring engineering, and even tourism thrill-rides. From a bridge curved to dodge a disputed border, to another built so trains could be “sprayed by the mist of the Falls,” these crossings are icons of both human ingenuity and the continent’s complex history. Here are Africa’s coolest bridges – and the stories that make them unforgettable. Kazungula Bridge Kazungula Bridge/Matthias-Tf/Wikimedia Commons Straddling the Zambezi River between Botswana and Zambia, the Kazungula Bridge is Africa’s newest superstar. At first glance, its elegant cable-stayed span…
Zimbabwe’s agriculture continues to evolve, with farmers finding new ways to adapt to shifting markets, changing climate and rising production costs. One shining example of innovation and resilience is Nottingham Estate, a thriving citrus operation in Beitbridge that has not only carved out a niche in the citrus market but has also embraced agro-tourism as a model for diversification and sustainability. Nottingham Estate is home to vast orchards of oranges, grapefruit and Eureka lemons, producing high-quality fruit that is both consumed locally and exported to regional and international markets. Citrus farming has long been associated with Zimbabwe’s southern Lowveld due…
The coastal province of Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, is once again facing a surge of violence that has forced Doctors Without Borders (MSF) to suspend vital medical services in the district of Mocímboa da Praia. Image: Supplied/Marilia Gurgel The decision, announced on 26 September, follows armed attacks that left civilians killed, injured and displaced within just a few weeks. Medical Services on Pause Until the suspension, MSF teams were supporting the local hospital with emergency care, maternity services and referrals for patients requiring advanced treatment. Mobile clinics and community health workers extended support into surrounding villages, while psychosocial programmes provided a…
The Sabi Sand Nature Reserve (SSNR) is home to one of the greatest conservation triumphs in modern history. In just a few short years, 150 rhinos have been successfully released, integrated, and are now thriving. This proves that we can win the fight to save these iconic animals. It’s not just a conservation success; it is a miracle, and a testament to what’s possible when passion, expertise, and partnership converge.This is a success story worth telling, Image Credit: Brad MitchellThe Rise of Rhinos in SSNRIn a move that has rewritten the script for wildlife conservation, the Sabi Sand welcomed 150…
If you’ve ever taken a long road trip in South Africa, you’ll know the joy of padkos. Silar / Wikimedia Commons More than just food for the journey, padkos is a ritual, a memory, and a symbol of South African hospitality. For generations, families have carefully packed homemade treats into Tupperware and old biscuit tins, ready to be shared on the roadside or savoured somewhere between home and holiday. Now, with a renewed interest in heritage food and nostalgic travel experiences, padkos is making a comeback. The origin of padkos The word padkos comes from Afrikaans, translating literally to “road…
Township tourism is experiencing a vibrant revival in South Africa. Michael Denne / Wikimedia Commons Once viewed through the lens of history and hardship, many townships are now redefining themselves as cultural hubs, entrepreneurial spaces, and must-visit destinations for travellers seeking authentic experiences. This new wave of township tourism highlights art, food, music, and community life, while encouraging more mindful, respectful travel. Why township tourism is thriving South African townships have always been central to the country’s history, but they’re also spaces of innovation, resilience, and creativity. From colourful street art and buzzing food markets to jazz clubs and local…
South Africa’s oldest churches are anchors in time. Dietmar Rabich/Wikimedia Commons They carry the stories of settlers, missionaries and local communities who built them with a mix of faith and determination. These sacred buildings are among the earliest examples of colonial architecture. Yet, they also reflect the cultural exchanges that shaped the nation’s past. For visitors, they offer a chance to experience history by stepping into spaces where generations have gathered for centuries. St George’s Church and Cathedral, Cape Town St George’s Anglican Cathedral is one of Cape Town’s most recognisable landmarks. The first St George’s Church was consecrated in…
When most people picture Africa’s wild landscapes, they immediately think of savannah plains, desert dunes, or thick jungle. Yet deep into the folds of the continent lie vast expanses of fresh (and sometimes salty) water — lakes so immense they are often called “inland seas.” These waters are not only ecological marvels but also gateways to culture, adventure, and the pulse of human life along their shores. Here are four of the lakes that stand out: Lake Malawi, Lake Victoria, Lake Tanganyika, and Lake Turkana. Lake Malawi Lake Malawi/Craig Manners/Unsplash Straddling Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania, Lake Malawi is a shimmering…
Food has always been about more than nourishment. It is a way to connect and to celebrate the simple joy of being together. engin akyurt/Unsplash A growing number of restaurants are embracing this spirit through communal dining where guests gather around shared tables, often with strangers, to enjoy a meal that feels more like a gathering than a booking. For foodies who crave connection as much as flavour, these are experiences that linger long after the plates have been cleared. The Pot Luck Club | Cape Town Perched high above the Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock, The Pot Luck Club…
Cycling is as much a way of exercise as it is a way of exploring the country’s landscapes at a slower pace. Juanita Swart/Unsplash Giba Gorge Just outside Durban, Giba Gorge MTB Park has built a reputation as one of the most rider-friendly destinations in KZN. With over 40 kilometres of graded trails, a BMX track, and family-friendly facilities, it’s a great option for weekend trips or day visits. The nearby Valley of 1000 Hills also offers dramatic riding through rural landscapes, with accommodation ranging from eco-lodges to B&Bs that cater to cyclists. Breakaway Trails For a quieter retreat, the…