Africa

The meaning and mystery of crocodiles

The Meaning and Mystery of Crocodiles

A Day in the Life of a war correspondent, Blog

Crocodiles are one of the oldest surviving species on earth. Their presence is recorded in the works of Herodotus, Shakespeare and many other classical writers. They have been part of Africa and African mythology since ancient times, but years ago crocodiles were mysteriously dying off in the rivers of South Africa’s Northern provinces in the area around the Kruger Park. Some 120 carcasses were found and scientists were studying what is happening to the animals. Many believe that the deaths of the crocodiles are linked to climate change.

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Hard Landing Southern Anglola 1985 - Hamilton

Wild Flights and Hard Landings over Africa

A Day in the Life of a war correspondent, Africa, Angola, Blog, Mozambique, South Sudan

In the years that I have been working and travelling as a journalist on this continent, some of my most memorable experiences have been on aeroplanes. For me, that precise moment when the wheels lift off the ground is always a thrilling experience. As you hang in the sky in that first ethereal split second, time itself seems to be suspended, holding you in the thrall of the promise of the destination that lies ahead. But sometimes, the flight itself is as much of an adventure as the place you are going to.

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Hamilton Wende My Xhosa Teacher

Powerful Memories of My Xhosa Teacher

A Day in the Life of a war correspondent, South Africa

My Xhosa teacher Ally Weakley (seen here centre) was a powerful advocate of non-racialism in apartheid South Africa. He was tragically gunned down in rage after Chris Hani’s assassination. Rhodes honoured him this weekend by naming their main sports field after him. Here, published in the Sunday Times this weekend, I remember just what a powerful influence he had on my life.

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