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Civic space in Africa has become ground zero for a poignant tussle, drawing government entities, activists, and citizens into a conflict over essential freedoms. It's a vivid spectacle, showcasing courage and resilience on one side, and a draconian clampdown on liberties on the other. It beckons us to ask, what value do we place on our freedom of expression, and how far are we willing to go to protect it? While there are still beacons of steadfastness, countries that cling stubbornly to the ideals of…

On a day marked by significant developments, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) made a compelling decision to conclude its military involvement in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). After years of complex engagement, this decision wasn’t just a moment in time; it was the culmination of extensive deliberations and strategic thought. The transition involves a thoughtful, gradual withdrawal of forces—an operation marked by its sensitivity and precision. As the SADC's communiqué succinctly…

It's a new dawn for journalism across Africa, at least according to the 2024 World Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). These indices reveal that some African nations are making commendable strides in promoting media freedom, a cause that has historically faced numerous hurdles on the continent. Notable improvements are being made in the realms of transparency, safety, and of course, the autonomy of media professionals—a true testament to the shifting tides of African journalism.…

When we delve into the realm of economics, one concept stands out as particularly enlightening: Purchasing Power Parity (PPP). This crucial economic metric enables economists, policymakers, and even curious minds like ours to unearth the real value of currencies by evaluating how much a standard basket of goods would cost across different nations. Essentially, PPP adjusts currencies to help us grasp the true worth of the monetary units by factoring in living cost differentials. Imagine it as a global price leveler, a…

It’s fascinating to witness the blossoming success of Tony Elumelu, a household name in Nigeria and across Africa. Currently estimated at a net worth of $2.15 billion by MoneyCentral, Elumelu has not only established himself as a formidable business titan but also as an inspiring figure. This astonishing figure makes one ponder, what sets him apart? Let's delve into the details. According to recent evaluations, this notable ascent comes primarily from his calculated investments and ownership stakes…

Human Rights Watch has called upon Mozambican authorities to conduct an immediate and thorough investigation into the recent attack on opposition members in Maputo. This incident unfolded during a significant moment—the signing of a peace accord between President Daniel Chapo and various opposition parties, notably excluding former presidential candidate Venancio Mondlane, who led hundreds in a peaceful march that day. The stark contrast between the peaceful intentions of the demonstrators and the violent response they…

In the labyrinthine world of commerce, decisions often lead to myriad outcomes. The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited recently made a pivotal choice, halting its innovative Naira-for-crude initiative. This development bears significant impacts on local refineries, not least because this initiative enabled transactions in the country's own currency—a bold strategy designed to mitigate complexities of foreign exchange. The decision to suspend the program emerged from reports…

Imagine a vast land teeming with unparalleled opportunities and challenges—a mosaic of cultures, resources, and vibrant economies. Welcome to Africa, the continent at the heart of Russia's expanding international trade canvas. In 2024, Russia's food shipments to Africa burgeoned to an impressive $7 billion, marking a nearly 20% rise compared to the previous year. Why this surge? What does this tell us about the evolving global trade dynamics? A publication from the Russian Export Centre (REC) painted a detailed picture:…

Angola is stepping into an ambitious role, attempting to mediate the ongoing turmoil in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo). The focus lies on facilitating direct negotiations between Kinshasa, the capital of DR Congo, and the M23 rebel group, which has recently captured significant territories. During a recent meeting held in Luanda, Angolan President João Lourenço unveiled a comprehensive plan aimed at establishing dialogue between the warring factions. His commitment to fostering peace in the region cannot be…

In a significant development for African football, Patrice Motsepe, the prominent South African mining executive, has secured his position as the president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for a second consecutive term, doing so without any opposition. This confirmation of his leadership signals both continuity and the potential for further progress within the organization. At 63, Motsepe stands as a notable figure not just in the realm of sports but also in business, with his family's trust owning Mamelodi…