Central Africa

Exploring the Spiritual Ties Between Russia and Africa In a recent discussion that has captured the attention of many, several African priests affiliated with the Russian Orthodox Church have declared that “Russia is a new spiritual heart of Christianity.” This bold assertion invites us to ponder the intersections of faith, culture, and geography, particularly as they relate to spiritual growth in Africa. The priests, engaged in spiritual training in Russia, shared their thoughts with Sputnik during their…

Tragic Violence in Cape Town's Somali Community CAPE TOWN, South Africa (AX) — In a heartbreaking incident late Wednesday evening, two young Somali men, ages 18 and 20, lost their lives in a brutal shooting that occurred in the Wallacedene neighbourhood, located on the northeastern fringes of Cape Town. This tragic event has left the local community shocked and questioning the pervasive issue of violence in their midst. Authorities have reported that around 9:45…

As we venture into 2024, an alarming trend has emerged: global employee engagement has dipped from 23% to 21%. This marks a significant moment, as it’s only the second occurrence of such a decline in the last twelve years, with the first instance happening during the depths of the COVID-19 pandemic. The ramifications of this data resonate on a universal scale, but they strike particularly hard in Africa, where workplace stress levels are notoriously high. Have you ever felt that work has transformed into an uphill battle?…

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been making substantial strides in establishing its presence in Africa, exemplified by its recent transfer of Chinese-made FK-2000 air defense systems to the junta-led government of Chad. This act signifies more than just a military transaction; it forms part of a larger strategy aimed at fortifying Chad’s defense capabilities amid the growing turbulence in the region. Just last week, UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan engaged in discussions with His Excellency…

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the M23 rebels, known for their ties to Rwanda, have declared a ceasefire in the eastern regions of the country. This agreement will remain in effect until peace negotiations, facilitated by Qatar, are brought to a close. It’s a significant development in the ongoing conflict that has claimed an estimated 7,000 lives since M23 escalated its military campaign in January. In a joint statement, representatives from both factions characterized their recent discussions as "frank and…

The Nigeria Customs Service, represented by its Comptroller General, Adewale Adeniyi, recently brought attention to an alarming and ongoing issue: the booming illicit fuel trade that continues to thrive in the country. This insight not only underscores a pressing economic challenge but also raises critical questions about the efficacy of policy changes aimed at curbing such illegal activities. During a recent performance review conference held in Abuja, Adeniyi provided a candid assessment of the current state of…

Natural Gas: A Transitioning Energy Source for Africa Natural gas is rapidly solidifying its position as a crucial player in the global energy arena. As the world grapples with the urgency of sustainable energy, natural gas serves as an essential bridge—connecting traditional fossil fuels with cleaner renewable resources. But what does this mean for nations, particularly in Africa, where natural gas production might be lagging? In regions devoid of indigenous natural gas production, governments find themselves…

As of Tuesday, April 22, 2025, the price of the OPEC basket, which comprises twelve distinct crudes, reached $69.94 a barrel. This figure represents a slight increase from the previous day's price of $69.65, as calculated by the OPEC Secretariat. This subtle shift in pricing might seem trivial at first glance, but it serves as a telling reflection of the intricate dance between supply and demand in the global oil market. Is it possible that such fluctuations are merely the calm before a more turbulent storm? The oil…

Decoding Africa's Debt Dilemma in a Challenging Economic Landscape In a world marked by financial instability—skyrocketing inflation, rising interest rates, and tightening credit—debt has returned to the forefront of economic discussions. Amidst these fluctuations, African nations find themselves navigating a complex labyrinth of financial obligations, especially concerning their interactions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). As the globe wrestles with challenges like geopolitical unrest, trade…

Across the vast expanse of Africa, the energy landscape presents a complex tapestry woven from the rich geological diversity found on the continent. In this intricate picture, coal has historically played a pivotal role, particularly within southern regions. As a fundamental resource, coal has powered industries and fueled electricity generation, serving as a cornerstone for numerous national economies. It's hard to envision the bustling cities, both small and large, and the energetic industries thriving, without the…