My 5 Favorite Africa Blogs in 2009

I've come across some really wonderful blogs this year and wanted to share my favorites as 2009 draws to a close.

1. AfriGadget - a blog about "Solving everyday problems with African solutions". Read about individuals using their creative imaginations and a dash of technical know-how to make things work. From solar-paneled vests worn by cyclists that can then charge cell phones, to second hand car batteries wired to run radios.

2. Wildlife Direct - a non-profit that hosts a collection of blogs that brings supporters and conservationists together. It enables anyone anywhere to participate, while providing real time transparency and accountability. The blogs are also invaluable for anyone interested in working in the field of conservation.

3. Border Jumpers - Bernard Pollack and Danielle Nierenberg started their blog and travels in October, 2009. It's not just a travel blog, although their tips on vegetarian survival and transport options in East Africa are invaluable. The couple interviews farmers, medical workers, community organizers, labor activists and many more as they go.

4. Listen to Africa - An ambitious project led by two adventurous spirits, Huw and Bex. Their chosen form of transport is a bicycle and their plan is to spend two years in Africa covering around 24,000 km. They've been traveling since March 2009, recording the sounds of nature, music, voices and other noises of interest.

5. Somewhere in Africa - Musings and news about Africa written by Shashank Bengali, who covered sub-Saharan Africa from 2005 to 2009. He's now based in Washington, D.C., as a national correspondent.