Grab A Coffee: On The Complex Issue Of The Balaalo , The Explosive Kenya Riots & The Political Campaign Season

In this episode, Simon and Raymond take a hard look at the tumultuous landscape of Kenya, East Africa’s largest economy, with a dissection of the explosive riots of July 7th, 2025, and a deep dive into what's fueling the unrest and what's at stake for the region's stability. 

Talking stability, Simon and Raymond turn the spotlight on Northern Uganda, and explore the complex and often contentious issue of the Balaalo, where pastoralism and land use are testing the limits of community relations. 

As the silly season of political campaigns descends upon Uganda, the question of social service delivery delays can’t be wished away. However, with President Museveni seeking another elective term, riding the populist anti-corruption crusade, the podcast considers this one of the many examples of African politicians being what they must avoid being - snake oil salespersons.

It’s an illusion, Simon and Raymond say, for the population to believe that a new political dispensation would magically turn their woes into fortunes. Take the example of Uganda's infrastructure woes, where delayed projects are crippling economic growth and holding back progress. But there is barely even a slap on the wrist for those responsible for this state of affairs.

Join us for a gripping conversation as we probe the depths of these critical issues and seek answers to the questions that matter most.