Southern Africa

Remembering Edgar Lungu: A Complex Legacy Edgar Lungu, the former President of Zambia, has left us. His daughter, Tasila Lungu, who serves as a member of parliament, confirmed his passing in a heartfelt video statement shared by the Patriotic Front (PF). She mentioned that her father had faced his illness with remarkable “dignity and privacy,” a tribute to his character that resonates deeply during such a painful time. The PF also disclosed that Lungu had been undergoing specialized treatment in South Africa for an…

Dramatic Shift in Nigeria's Cement Industry: A Success Story of Local Investment In a remarkable transformation, Nigeria—once known as the second-largest importer of cement globally—has now emerged as the continent's leading exporter. Aliko Dangote, the influential President of the Dangote Group and Africa’s richest man, recently highlighted this pivotal shift at the Gates Foundation Goalkeepers event held in Nigeria. His discourse didn’t just reflect facts; it was a celebration of progress forged through vision and…

Most of us probably don’t spend our days contemplating how much time we have left on this Earth. Yet, the average life expectancy in a given country offers more than a mere count of potential birthdays. It serves as a crucial lens into the health of a society, reflecting its healthcare quality, living conditions, educational opportunities, nutritional standards, and even the political landscape. Around the globe, life expectancy varies dramatically based on geographical and socio-economic factors. According to…

The Complex Fabric of Urban Life in Africa In many regions of Africa, urban existence weaves together a rich tapestry of opportunity and challenge. Major cities hum with the pulse of economic growth, education, and innovation. Yet, woven into this vibrant fabric are threads of adversity—persistent safety concerns that cast a shadow over urban life. How do we reconcile the promise of city living with the realities of crime? Consider the stories of countless individuals navigating the streets of Africa's bustling…

Navigating Price Increases in Nigeria's Streaming Market In recent months, Netflix has adjusted its pricing structure in Nigeria, raising the cost of its Basic plan to ₦4,000 from ₦3,500 and the Mobile plan to ₦2,500 from ₦2,200, as reported by Punch. To some, these changes might appear as just another weight on the shoulders of consumers already navigating the waves of economic uncertainty. But what does this mean for a country grappling with inflation and dwindling purchasing power? This is not the…

The Hidden Costs of Remittances: A Closer Look at Africa In a world where financial connections span continents, remittances serve as a lifeline for countless families. They support not only basic needs but also education and healthcare for those left behind. However, despite their critical role, the high transaction costs associated with sending money to Africa impede the true potential of these financial inflows. It raises an important question: why, in this age of technological advancement, are these costs still so…

Q: How is the ride-hailing business doing in Africa? A: The ride-hailing sector in Africa is experiencing a remarkable surge. In a continent enriched with a youthful population, this growth is not merely numbers—it's a lifesaver for many. It is reshaping the transportation landscape, enabling individuals to traverse their cities with newfound speed and accessibility. Given the diverse cultures and varying geographical challenges, there's immense potential to explore tailored mobility solutions that resonate with…

It's fascinating to observe how a nation's infrastructure plays a critical role in shaping its economic destiny. Across Africa, there is a palpable momentum as countries invest significantly in energy, transport, and digital frameworks. This deliberate focus on infrastructure is not just a fleeting trend; it’s a strategic move aimed at fostering sustainable economic growth for generations to come. These important investments don’t merely exist in a vacuum. They serve to minimize transaction costs, enhance…

The Alliance of Sahel States, which includes Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, has enacted a bold vision for regional justice. They recently unveiled plans to establish a Sahelian Criminal and Human Rights Court aimed at prosecuting offenses that transcend their borders. This initiative not only seeks to unify the legal frameworks of these three nations but also aspires to foster "an area of peace, security, and sustainable development." It’s a remarkable ambition, don’t you think? In articulating this goal, these nations are…

In recent years, a remarkable transformation is underway in the tourism landscapes of various African nations. Through a series of ambitious reforms—ranging from strategic airline expansions and upgraded airport infrastructure to surging hotel occupancy rates and progressive visa policies—certain countries are taking significant steps to revitalize their tourism sectors. What does this mean for the traveler? After enduring prolonged disruptions due to the pandemic and an ever-evolving…