June 2024 News Round‑Up – Eco News Africa
June was a busy month on Eco News Africa. We covered everything from tense Euro 2024 matches to a major fire in Lagos, and we brought you updates on climate events and political shake‑ups across the continent. Below you’ll find a quick look at the biggest stories that shaped the month.
Top Stories Across Africa
Kenya’s parliament pushed a controversial Finance Bill 2024, sparking violent protests that forced the government to call in the Kenya Defence Forces. The move highlighted growing tension between taxpayers and lawmakers and raised questions about how future bills will be handled.
In South Africa, the presidential inauguration drew a crowd of international dignitaries, underscoring the country’s importance in regional politics. The event also marked the start of Cyril Ramaphosa’s second term, which came after a historic coalition deal between the ANC and the Democratic Alliance.
Bolivia’s short‑lived coup attempt revealed deep economic and political cracks. While the rebellion was quickly crushed, analysts warned that the underlying issues could resurface if not addressed.
Meanwhile, Johannesburg’s City Power announced peak‑time blackouts to protect the grid from overload. Residents in high‑density suburbs were warned to expect scheduled power cuts as demand surged.
Sports, Environment and More
Euro 2024 dominated the sports section. Slovakia stunned England with a half‑time lead in the round of 16, and Croatia faced a setback after Nikola Vlasic’s injury ruled him out of the tournament. Fans also got a preview of the Romania vs Ukraine clash and a guide on streaming the Poland‑Netherlands match.
Beyond football, the ICC T20 World Cup saw a thrilling showdown between the West Indies and England at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground. Both teams brought high energy, and the match promised plenty of big moments.
On the environmental front, World Environment Day 2024 focused on desertification and drought resilience, calling for reforestation and better water management. The theme drew inspiration from Pope Francis’ Laudato sì and highlighted the urgent need for action across Africa.
In Italy, a museum recreated a Tanzanian rainforest to showcase biodiversity and spark public interest in conservation. The exhibit featured live butterflies and a realistic greenhouse, offering a hands‑on look at what’s at stake in tropical ecosystems.
Back in Africa, a massive fire ripped through the Christ Embassy Church headquarters in Lagos, drawing fast‑moving firefighters and a viral video that captured the blaze. The incident raised concerns about safety standards in large public buildings.
Other notable posts included a detailed guide to the Euro 2024 round of 16 fixtures, updates on the Ukraine security deals, and a look at the impact of a roof collapse at Delhi’s airport on flight schedules and airfare control.
All these stories and more are captured in our June archive. Whether you’re interested in politics, sports, or the environment, Eco News Africa has the latest updates you need to stay informed.
EURO 2024: Slovakia Shocks England with Lead in Tense Round of 16 Match
England faces Slovakia in a high-stakes Round of 16 match at the Veltins Arena, Germany, during UEFA EURO 2024. Despite England's unbeaten run in the group stage, Slovakia's Schranz gave them a 0-1 lead at half-time. The tense atmosphere saw England fans express disappointment, while Slovakia aims to surpass its previous best in the tournament.
Delhi Airport T1 Roof Collapse Triggers Flight Disruptions; Government Enforces Measures to Control Airfare Hikes
A catastrophic roof collapse at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport's Terminal 1 led to the cancellation of over 80 flights, one death, and several injuries. Heavy rains were the culprit, causing severe disruptions and prompting government intervention to prevent airfare hikes.
Bolivia Coup Attempt Highlights Deep Political and Economic Crises
A failed coup attempt in Bolivia exposes the underlying political and economic turmoil. General Juan Jose Zuniga's rebellion was short-lived, revealing deep-seated divisions. President Luis Arce's government successfully crushed the attack but must address the root causes to prevent further instability.
Euro 2024 Round of 16: Qualified Teams and Exciting Fixtures Unveiled
A detailed guide on the teams that have made it to the Round of 16 in Euro 2024, along with all the fixtures, dates, and times you need to keep track of. Learn which teams advanced based on their group stage performance and stay updated to cheer on your favorites in the next thrilling stage of the tournament.
Kenya Deploys Military to Manage Protests Over Controversial Finance Bill 2024
In response to violent protests against the Finance Bill 2024, Kenya's National Assembly has sanctioned the deployment of the Kenya Defence Forces to assist the National Police Service in restoring order and protecting crucial infrastructure. This decision follows recommendations by the Defence Council and has incited both condemnation of the destructive protests and calls for lawful dialogue.
Tinubu Delays Decision on New National Minimum Wage for Extensive Consultations
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has postponed the announcement of a new minimum wage for public sector workers in Nigeria. He plans to conduct further consultations with key stakeholders, including local government areas, states, and the Federal Government, before making a final decision. The move seeks to ensure a well-informed and balanced approach to the new wage structure.
Marc Guiu: Chelsea's Newest Addition from Barcelona
Marc Guiu, an 18-year-old forward, is set to leave Barcelona for Chelsea. The English club is ready to pay his 6 million euro release clause. Despite Barcelona's renewal offer, Guiu opts for Chelsea to advance his career, with playing time and future prospects being key factors. Chelsea plans to loan him to Strasbourg. Bayern Munich and Sevilla had also expressed interest in this standout talent.
Massive Fire Engulfs Christ Embassy Church Headquarters in Lagos
A devastating fire has broken out at the headquarters of Christ Embassy Church in Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos. The fire, captured in a video clip that has gone viral, shows the building in flames with thick smoke pouring out. No official statement or further details from the church yet. Firefighters are on the scene trying to control the blaze.
France and Netherlands Draw in Euro 2024 Opener as Mbappe Misses Out Due to Injury
In a highly anticipated Euro 2024 Group A match, France and the Netherlands ended in a goalless draw at the Allianz Arena in Munich. Missing star player Kylian Mbappe due to injury, France struggled to create scoring opportunities with Olivier Giroud and Randal Kolo Muani up front. Despite intense moments, neither team managed to score, leaving both with a point each.
DA MP Renaldo Gouws Suspended Following Emergence of Racist Video
Democratic Alliance MP Renaldo Gouws has been suspended by the party following the resurfacing of a video from 2010 in which he made racist remarks and advocated violence against Black people. The video, first highlighted by journalist Roscoe Palm, has led to widespread condemnation, including an impending case by the South African Human Rights Commission in the Equality Court.
West Indies vs England ICC T20 World Cup Showdown: Super Eight Group 2 Clash at Daren Sammy Cricket Ground
The West Indies and England are set to face off in a high-octane ICC T20 World Cup Super Eight Group 2 match at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground. With a fervent crowd expected, England’s Reece Topley describes the atmosphere as a 'cauldron', while West Indies captain Rovman Powell anticipates a familiar yet challenging contest. Both teams are in form and key players like Nicholas Pooran and Akeal Hosein could be decisive.
Croatia's Hopes Tested Against Albania as Nikola Vlasic Misses UEFA Euro 2024 Due to Injury
Croatia faces a significant challenge as midfielder Nikola Vlasic is sidelined from Euro 2024 due to a muscle injury. This unexpected twist impacts their chances of advancing past the group stages. Coach Zlatko Dalic is rallying his team for a crucial match against Albania, who come into the game after a close loss to Italy. The showdown, airing live on June 19, marks the first-ever encounter between Croatia and Albania.