For almost a decade, the Central African Republic has seen growing investment and influence from the Russian mercenary group Wagner. It stretches from education and religion to business and military.

The recent mutiny has led to speculation about what the future of Russia's status in the CAR will be.

We explore Russia’s role in the CAR, and ask what it means for that country, the continent of Africa and the wider world?

Produced and presented by Peter MacJob, additional production from Zigoto Tchaya Tchameni.

(Image: A demonstrator holds a Russian flag during a march in support of Russia and China's presence in the Central African Republic. Credit: Getty Images)

Large parts of sub-Saharan Africa are facing dire economic circumstances. The World Bank says more than one in three countries are either in severe financial distress, or are close to default. What’s gone wrong?

In the first of a week of programmes, Ed Butler taking the pulse of investment in Africa and looking at ways the situation needs to change.

Presenter / producer: Ed Butler Image: Mine in Guinea; Credit: BBC

Why African tourists are key to helping the travel sector recover post-pandemic.

We hear from businesses in Gambia, Tanzania and Zambia to explore how well these countries recovered after Covid-19 lockdowns. We also explore why promoting tourism within Africa could be key to keeping global visitor numbers going up.

Presenter / producer: Bisi Adebayo Image: Gambia; Credit: Getty Images

Jean-Marc Matwaki takes us on a journey through the music of the DRC

Bill Odidi reports on the varied musical traditions of Tanzania; from the Chaga communities on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro, to the taarab music of Zanzibar

Producer and radio host Maimouna Dembélé takes us on a road trip to Senegal