Central Africa

2025 Global Peace Index: A Declining Trend in Global Peacefulness The 2025 Global Peace Index (GPI) presents a stark reality: for the 13th time in the last 17 years, global peace is on the decline. Over the past year alone, the average level of peacefulness has taken a hit, decreasing by 0.36%. It’s a sobering statistic that signals the sixth consecutive year where we witness a slip in global tranquility. What has led us to this state? And what does it mean for our collective future? While much of the world’s focus has…

Exploring the Impact of Economic Sanctions on African Nations For decades, African countries have found themselves on the receiving end of various sanctions imposed by international entities such as the United Nations (UN), the European Union (EU), and the United States. Why has this continent become a focal point for such measures? It's essential to recognize that sanctions are often employed to advance specific foreign policy objectives. However, the implications of these actions reach far beyond the political…

In a significant step towards enhancing regional energy infrastructure, HYDRO-LINK, a specialized company based in the United States, has embarked on an ambitious project to construct a 1,150-kilometer (720 miles) electricity transmission line linking Angola and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This $1.5 billion endeavor is anchored by a recent memorandum of understanding with the Angolan government. The DRC, endowed with a wealth of minerals, faces an acute challenge: an erratic power supply that stifles its…

When we talk about GDP per capita, we often think about raw numbers, economic theories, and statistics. However, this figure conveys a deeper narrative—one that reflects the lived experiences of ordinary people within a nation. It serves as a powerful lens through which we can view not only a country’s economic health but also the realities that its citizens face daily. In many regions across Africa, GDP per capita illustrates a persistent struggle. The rich potential of these nations often sits alongside…

In an age where geopolitics are increasingly interconnected, the situation unfolding in Ukraine reflects a remarkable evolution in foreign policy, especially as Kyiv seeks to extend its influence into African geopolitics. The ongoing war with Russia is not merely a regional conflict; it's taking on global implications, reshaping alliances, and sparking new initiatives across continents. Recently, speaking to Reuters, Maksym Subkh, Ukraine’s Special Representative for the Middle East and Africa, articulated a…

As we move deeper into 2025, an increasing number of African nations find themselves grappling with the weight of their financial commitments to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The road toward fiscal stability seems to be riddled with challenges that threaten both economic and social progress. In countries such as Ghana and Malawi, the solutions offered through IMF-supported programs have often manifested in painful austerity measures. These measures, while intended to stabilize economies in the long run, tend to…

In recent years, there has been a growing conversation about the economic landscape of African nations, particularly those with low diesel prices. While this could easily seem like a matter reserved for economists or policy analysts, the implications stretch far beyond the fuel gauge. Low diesel prices offer a multitude of economic and social benefits that ripple across industries, affecting daily life, commerce, and even food security. One might wonder: how does a dip in diesel prices translate to tangible…

The U.S. Steps Up in Africa: Investment in the Lobito Corridor Project The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) is on the brink of finalizing a remarkable financing agreement exceeding $500 million for the Lobito Corridor. This ambitious railway initiative aims to facilitate the transportation of vital minerals from Central Africa's renowned copper belt to Angola's bustling Atlantic coast. It’s not just another infrastructure project; it represents a strategic avenue for growth, development, and…

It is undeniable that many African nations grapple with challenges such as territorial disputes and internal security issues. In this context, a robust military presence becomes essential. One critical aspect of a formidable military force is the number of active personnel. Countries across Africa recognize that maintaining a substantial standing military is crucial. In dealing with various challenges, governments prioritize having a capable active military force to safeguard peace and stability. While the sheer size of a…

Despite the rich tapestry of cultures and the vast potential found within the African continent, there is a pressing challenge confronting several nations today: military recruitment. As Africa’s population continues to grow, certain countries are grappling with a paradox. They find themselves unable to muster enough young individuals for military service. What does this mean for their future? A shrinking pool of potential recruits threatens not only the military's operational effectiveness but also national…