May 2024 News Archive – Eco News Africa

Welcome to the May 2024 roundup. In just one month we covered a mix of politics, sport, and shocking events that shaped the continent and beyond. Below is a quick guide to the stories that got the most attention, so you can catch up without scrolling through each article.

Politics & Global Events

South Africa’s 2024 national elections hit a snag when the Independent Electoral Commission’s results dashboard crashed at Gallagher Estate in Midrand. The glitch took down the live results screen, the website, and the mobile app, leaving voters and observers in the dark for a few tense minutes. Local offices kept tallying votes, but the incident raised questions about election tech reliability.

Across the continent, leaders condemned Israeli strikes in Rafah that left over 45 dead, including children. French President Emmanuel Macron called for an immediate ceasefire while Italy’s defense minister voiced concern over civilian casualties. The United States walked a tightrope, defending Israel’s right to self‑defence but urging restraint. The episode reminded us how quickly geopolitical tensions can flare and affect global discourse.

Sports Highlights

In the MLS, Messi’s 11th goal of the season wasn’t enough to stop Atlanta United from beating Inter Miami 3‑1. While the Argentine superstar celebrated his tally, it was Saba Lobzhanidze and Thiago Almada who stole the spotlight, ending a nine‑game winless streak for Atlanta.

European football entered what pundits are dubbing “Managergeddon.” Xabi Alonso was shown the door at Bayer Leverkusen, sparking rumors of a new era at the club. Meanwhile, Jose Mourinho’s name kept popping up in Chelsea circles, hinting at a possible return. The summer transfer window looks set to be a whirlwind of coaching changes.

Back in the NBA, the Dallas Mavericks surged ahead in the Western Conference Finals, taking a 3‑0 lead over the Minnesota Timberwolves. Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving combined for a dominant performance, while the Timberwolves’ stars, Anthony Edwards and Karl‑Anthony Towns, struggled to find rhythm. The Mavericks now sit on the brink of a sweep, a rare feat in recent finals history.

Outside the glamour of stadiums, Los Angeles faced a tragic story when former “General Hospital” star Johnny Wactor was shot while confronting thieves stealing his car’s catalytic converter. The 37‑year‑old actor died at a local hospital, and the LAPD is still hunting for suspects. The incident underscored a growing wave of car‑theft related violence in major US cities.

All these pieces together paint a picture of a month where technology faltered, politics heated up, and sports delivered drama both on and off the field. Whether you’re tracking election integrity, following the latest manager shake‑ups, or just looking for a quick sports recap, May 2024 gave us plenty to talk about. Stay tuned to Eco News Africa for deeper dives into each story as they develop.