2026 - Big3Africa.org

Another mega-refinery won’t power Africa’s future; it will trap it in the past

Correspondent May 11, 2026

East Africa’s proposed mega-refinery in Tanga may promise energy security and economic gains, but it risks locking the region into a fossil fuel future just as the world accelerates toward renewable energy. As clean energy technologies become cheaper, more resilient, and globally dominant, Africa faces a defining choice.

Tech & Energy

IRENA Report Strengthens Santa Marta Push for Fossil Fuel Phase-Out

Peter Ngare May 11, 2026

A new International Renewable Energy Agency report says solar, wind and battery storage can now provide reliable electricity at lower costs than many fossil fuel plants, strengthening global momentum to phase out fossil fuels after the Santa Marta Climate Conference.

Climate Change

How Climate Stress Is Fueling Kenya’s Diabetes Burden

Pauline Ongaji May 11, 2026

As climate stress, urban poverty, and rising food insecurity reshape life in Kenya’s cities, young people living with diabetes are facing a growing health crisis. For many aging out of donor-supported care programmes, the cost of insulin, limited public healthcare support, and unhealthy urban environments are turning diabetes management into a daily struggle tied not only to health, but also to environmental inequality and climate justice.

Climate Change

Kwale Farmers Turn to Mushroom Farming Amid Climate Change

Dan Kaburu May 7, 2026

Farmers in Kwale County are embracing oyster mushroom farming as a climate-smart alternative to traditional agriculture affected by erratic weather, drought, and rising farming costs. The low-input crop is offering new hope for income, nutrition, and resilience along Kenya’s coast.

Tech & Energy

Champions of Just Transition Question Proposed Tanga Oil Refinery

Dan Kaburu May 7, 2026

Climate justice advocates have raised concerns over the proposed Tanga oil refinery in Tanzania, warning that the project could entrench East Africa’s dependence on fossil fuels just as the world accelerates toward renewable energy.

Conservation

The Agroforestry Model Powering Ethiopia’s Green Economy

Correspondent May 7, 2026

Through Chaka Origin, entrepreneur Feven Tsehaye is transforming indigenous plants into high-value products while preserving forests, empowering women, and building a regenerative green economy rooted in nature.

Tech & Energy

Court directs enjoinment of Ministry of Energy in BP Kenya toxic waste lawsuit

Correspondent May 6, 2026

The Environment and Land Court in Isiolo has ordered petitioners in a toxic waste lawsuit against BP to include the Ministry of Energy as a respondent, citing its oversight role during historic oil exploration activities in northern Kenya.

Conservation

Scientists say Moringa seeds could filter microplastics from drinking water

Correspondent May 6, 2026

Seeds from the Moringa oleifera could offer a breakthrough in water purification, with new research showing they can remove up to 98% of microplastics from drinking water. Scientists say the plant-based method performs as effectively as conventional chemical treatments.

Climate Change

As climate change deepens, African cities face the daunting prospect of more deadly rains

Correspondent May 6, 2026

As climate change intensifies rainfall patterns across East Africa, cities like Nairobi are facing increasingly deadly floods driven by rapid urbanization, poor drainage systems, and rising precipitation levels.

Conservation

Government Scales Up Forest Protection Through Strategic Fencing Programme

Correspondent May 5, 2026

Kenya has intensified forest protection efforts through an expanded fencing programme, with a new 50-kilometer project launched in the Kaptagat ecosystem. While authorities say fencing will help curb encroachment and human-wildlife conflict, conservationists warn that long-term success will depend on stronger governance, community involvement, and protection against large-scale land interests.