French to English translator originally from Scotland. I lived in Panama, Central America from 2010 to 2016, and now live in Texas with my family.
Latest posts by Jane Ellis
Senegalese music: A national emblem, renowned worldwide
Once dominated by music from other countries, Senegalese contemporary music manages to raise Senegal's prominence both on the continent and world stage, making it a national emblem.
Madagascar's land defenders call for a comprehensive framework to protect Malagasy rights
"It is crucial that these communities know that they are not alone in their fight and that other citizens support their cause."
In Madagascar, People Remember One of the Deadliest French Colonial Wars in History
"...I would just like to spare a thought for all the families who know that they paid a price in spilled blood for the country..."
A Century Later, Namibia Demands Justice From Germany for Its First Holocaust
In the early twentieth century, the German Empire committed a holocaust against 65,000 Herero and 10,000 Nama. A century later, Namibia is fighting for justice.
Many Hospitals in Guinea Closing Because of Ebola Virus
Due to detection of new cases of Ebola, entire departments of national hospitals of Conakry have now been closed .
France Sees Escape From Russian Energy Dependence in Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan, wishing to reduce energy dependency on Russia, welcomes French president for talks.
Stop Using Growth as an Excuse to Pollute, African Activists Say
The impact of 2014 World Environment Day on Africa: The need for growth on the continent does not absolve nations from protecting the earth, African advocates say.
Venezuelans in Mexico to Protesters: “You Are Not Alone”
The situation in Venezuela continues to be extremely tense, with enormous marches and gatherings around the whole country that have left ten people killed and hundreds wounded. Venezuelans around the...
5 Energy Treasures in Africa You Haven't Heard About
Most African countries still suffer frequent power outages which inhibit economic growth. They are not, however, lacking in resources. This post outlines some of those least known in Africa.
Reasons for Power Outages in Benin
Benin has suffered more power outages over the last few days with the national electric energy company (SEEB) denying all responsibility. Nigeria supplies a large quantity of Benin's power, even though it has difficulty providing its own citizens with electricity.
Newfound Oil Met With Hope, Concern in Benin
The Benin government has announced the discovery of a source of oil in the Sèmè-Podji region. The find has pleased some, but others remain skeptical.
Interview with Guinea Boxing Champ Turned Belgian Politician
Making the transition between the worlds of high level sport and politics has never been easy. It is even more difficult when two different countries are involved. Bea Diallo explains his remarkable career.
Central African Republic: “Don't Forget About Us!”
The Central African Republic conflict between the Central African government and Seleka rebels has worsened alarmingly since December 2012. The humanitarian situation is catastrophic in certain towns but especially in the interior of the country.
Judges Go After Soldiers Suspected of Slaughter in Guinea
Ethnic killings have been reported yet again in Guinea. Judges in the country are doing all they can so that such tragedy does not strike anymore.
Operation Djakpata divides Opinion in Benin
Launched by the Ministry of the Interior, Public Security and Religion, Operation Djakpata has for objective the tracking of all criminals engaged in illegal activities which could disturb the peace of mind of the Benin people. However, for the past few days, public opinion of this project has been extremely divided.
Obama in Africa: Catching Up with China
President Obama is touring Africa from June 26 to July 3, 2013. He recently visited South Africa after visiting Senegal. After that, moving on to Tanzania. Many commentators believe this visit is a catch-up mission with the United States trying to respond to Chinese economic growth in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Inter-oceanic Canal Project Leads to Doubt and Rejection in Nicaragua
A controversial law granting a Chinese company the concession to build an inter-oceanic canal in Nicaragua has generated great discussion among the population. Although the law was passed by the National Assembly as a matter of urgency, a feasibility study of the real impact on the country has not yet been conducted.
Interview: “How Are Things in Bamako, Mali?”
At the time of writing, June 2013, France is still fighting Islamists in Mali. Paris-based Anne Morin and Awa Traoré, her friend in Bamako decided to share a video journal of their conversations on Skype on YouTube. Anne wanted to stay up to date with the region's news, and also with her friends. She told Global Voices' Anna Gueye more about this journal as well as her links with Mali.
Paying Tribute to Captain Mbaye Diagne, The Senegalese Hero of Rwanda
At the time of writing, June 2013, official commemoration of victims of the 1994 Rwandan genocide is continuing around the world. But few people still remember Captain Mbaye Diagne. However, this young officer from the Senegalese army showed bravery at a time when the rest of the world was demonstrating cowardice. Enrico Muratore has been fighting for years to ensure that the name of this hero is not forgotten.
Guinea: Special Guest at the 2013 Turin International Book Fair
The 26th International Book Fair took place in Turin, capital of the Italian Piedmont region, between May 16 and May 20, 2013. The Francophone West African country of Guinea was the sole representative of the African continent to be invited as a special guest country. This news did not pass unnoticed in Conakry and on the Guinean blogosphere - both at home and abroad.
Congolese-Italian Woman Joins Italy's Cabinet
The nomination of Cecile Kyenge, an Italian professor of medicine originally from the DRC, to the position of Integration Minister in the new Italian government, was applauded by commentators on the African blogosphere.
