Southern Africa

The Dawn of New Horizons: Dangote Cement's Bold Expansion in Africa In a world where construction is the lifeblood of economic growth, few names resonate as powerfully as that of Dangote Cement Plc. The Nigerian giant is actively consolidating its position as Africa's leading cement producer with an audacious announcement: a new 3 million metric tonnes per annum (Mta) grinding plant in Côte d’Ivoire, projected for completion by the third quarter of 2025. Beyond mere numbers, this facility signifies a promise, a commitment…

South Africa's Rand: A Steady Course Amidst Trade Negotiations In the bustling financial heart of Pretoria, South Africa’s rand is maintaining its ground as the nation navigates complex trade dynamics with the United States. As the clock ticks down to a pivotal August 1 deadline, the pressure intensifies not just for policymakers but for everyday citizens whose livelihoods often hang in the balance of international agreements. This week, as of 07:05 GMT, the rand is trading at 17.8550 against the dollar, reflecting a…

In the ever-evolving landscape of international relations, few countries are experiencing the shifting tides of diplomacy quite like South Africa and the United States. Recent remarks from former President Donald Trump underscore a growing rift between these two nations, driven by longstanding disagreements on various critical issues. This delicate relationship hangs in the balance as tensions rise over South Africa’s land reform policies, its unwavering support for Palestine amid the Israel-Gaza conflict, and its…

Transforming Entrepreneurial Stress: Embracing Grounding Practices In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, the traditional mindset often dictates a relentless pursuit of goals—working harder, sacrificing sleep, and enduring stress as a badge of honor. However, many forward-thinking entrepreneurs are discovering a profound truth: an alternative approach centered on "grounding" can lead to a healthier, more sustainable path to success. Grounding practices, known for anchoring individuals in the present moment,…

As of July 28, 2025, Forbes reports that Nigerian billionaire Abdul Samad Rabiu's net worth has surged to an impressive $6 billion. This substantial increase is largely attributed to the success of his primary companies, BUA Foods and BUA Cement. It’s fascinating to see how business acumen can transform fortunes and possibilities. Have you ever found yourself wondering what drove Rabiu’s entrepreneurial spirit? What lessons can we draw from his journey? Rabiu's financial gain of $900 million since January not only…

In the ever-evolving landscape of Africa’s economies, there's a striking contrast between nations that are blessed with abundant extractive resources—like oil, gas, and minerals—and those that have cultivated vibrant service sectors anchored by strategic financial hubs and progressive trade policies. Each country’s journey reflects a unique blend of opportunity and challenge. Yet, it's essential to remember that a lofty GDP figure isn’t the panacea for economic woes. Stunning per capita income statistics often mask a grim…

In a significant stride towards sustainability, Germany has committed a substantial €500 million (approximately $582 million) loan aimed at fostering South Africa’s transition from fossil fuels. This move marks a deepening of Germany's financial involvement in South Africa’s decarbonization framework, known as the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP). The loan is structured as a 13-year facility, disbursed through KfW, the German state-owned development bank, and managed by the German Society for…

The Evolving Landscape of Global Power: Insights from David Monyae In today’s rapidly changing world, the dynamics of power are shifting significantly. Recently, David Monyae, the Director of the Centre for Africa-China Studies (CACS) at the University of Johannesburg, weighed in on the matter, suggesting that the West's hold on global influence may be weakening. This observation raises important questions about the future of international relations. Are we witnessing the dawn of a new world order?…

Dangote Cement's Record Profit Growth: A Testament to Resilience In a remarkable turn of events, Dangote Cement Plc, steered by none other than Africa’s wealthiest individual, has achieved its most significant profit surge in nearly six years. The driving forces behind this impressive leap? A blend of a stable naira and increasing cement prices, both of which played a critical role in boosting the company's bottom line. According to a recent statement from the company, net income skyrocketed by over 300%,…

Understanding Africa's Urban Landscape: A Closer Look at the Continent's Most Populous Cities From the vibrant energy pulsating through the streets of Lagos to the well-orchestrated chaos of Kinshasa, Africa’s urban centers are burgeoning with life. Each city is home to tens of millions, yet what constitutes a “city” in statistical terms often hinges on varying definitions. The idea of urbanization is not merely a number; it embodies the intricate tapestry of culture, economy, and human experience. Recent data from 2023…