馃嚦馃嚘NamibiaSouthern Africa
Dance as a powerful act of resistance in South Africa
via The Namibian6 min read
International Dance Day, celebrated annually on April 29, highlights dance as an art form encompassing beauty, discipline, and expressive movement. However, in South Africa and many parts of Africa, dance transcends mere aesthetics, embodying deeply felt body politics. The dancing body in this context is not neutral but carries intersectional gendered, racialized, and ableist histories. Dance becomes a practice of presence, insisting on occupying space and being seen, which is significant in a society marked by inequality. For women, in particular, dancing is an act of resistance against pervasive gender-based violence, asserting autonomy and refusing to be reduced to victim status. It challenges narratives that position women as vulnerable, declaring their presence and refusal to shrink themselves. While not a solution to systemic violence, dance can shift perceptions and challenge existing norms. The politics of dance in South Africa are also shaped by legacies of colonialism, racism, patriarchy, and ableism, which influence what is recognized and funded within the dance sector. Despite a rich history of contemporary dance, ballet often remains the benchmark, while indigenous dance techniques are marginalized. Dancers with disabilities are frequently relegated to therapeutic contexts, with their professional status overlooked. Decolonizing dance involves dismantling these hierarchies, reconsidering whose knowledge and movement vocabularies are valued, and addressing histori
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by The Namibian.
The Walvis Bay Corridor Group WBCG is calling on transport and logistics operators to utilize the pre-clearance system to prevent truck congestion at borders. This appeal follows recent delays and long queues at the Katima Mulilo border post, which have increased cargo transit times and demurrage charges, consequently raising operational costs. WBCG spokesperson Obrien Simasiku noted that a reluctance by some operators to use pre-clearing is a key cause of the congestion, leading to extensive document processing at the border. WBCG acting chief executive Edward Shivute acknowledged that while pre-clearance is crucial, other issues with supporting border agencies also contribute to the problem. He encouraged stakeholders to enhance coordination and streamline processes to improve efficiency and remove non-tariff barriers. Shivute highlighted that implementing One-Stop Border Posts and the 24-hour operations at Katima Mulilo are sustainable solutions. Addressing these challenges is vital to maintain the competitiveness and efficiency of the Walvis Bay鈥擭dola鈥擫ubumbashi Development Corridor, a strategic trade route, and to support regional economic growth.
Mexico became the first team to reach the World Cup knockout round after a 1-0 victory over South Korea. A goal from Luis Romo secured Mexico's top spot in Group A with a game remaining. South Korea is currently second with three points, while the Czech Republic and South Africa each have one point. In other matches, Canada achieved their first-ever World Cup victory, defeating Qatar 6-0 in Group B. This win puts Canada on the brink of advancing to the last 32, needing only a point against Switzerland to finish first in their group. The Canadian victory was marked by a serious left leg injury to midfielder Ismael Kone, who was stretchered off after a challenge that resulted in a red card for Qatar's Assim Madibo. Canada coach Jesse Marsch stated that Kone was being treated in hospital for a suspected broken leg. Earlier, Switzerland defeated Bosnia-Herzegovina 4-1, reigniting their campaign in Group B. Johan Manzambi scored twice for Switzerland. South Africa also kept their qualification hopes alive with a 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic, with Teboho Mokoena scoring a penalty for South Africa.
Switzerland secured a 4-1 victory over 10-man Bosnia-Herzegovina in Los Angeles. Substitutes Johan Manzambi and Ruben Vargas were instrumental, with Manzambi scoring first from a Vargas cross. Bosnia's Tarik Muharemovic was sent off for a tackle on Breel Embolo. Manzambi then created a goal for Vargas, and Vargas assisted another for Manzambi. Ermin Mamhic scored a consolation goal for Bosnia, but Granit Xhaka sealed the win with a penalty in stoppage time. This result places Switzerland at the top of Group B with four points. Early in the match, veteran midfielders Xhaka and Remo Freuler orchestrated attacks for Switzerland, while Edin Dzeko created Bosnia's first major chance. Nikola Vasilj saved a bicycle kick from Dan Ndoye. The game saw a shift after coach Murat Yakin made three substitutions in the 72nd minute, leading to the late surge of goals.