Southern Africa

South Africa Secures $1.5 Billion From the World Bank for Infrastructure Development In a significant step toward revitalizing its lagging economy, South Africa has entered into a $1.5 billion loan agreement with the World Bank. Announced by the National Treasury on a recent Monday, this funding is earmarked for crucial upgrades to the nation’s transport and energy infrastructure—areas that have become the linchpin for potential economic growth. As the powerhouse of Africa's industrial economy, South Africa has faced…

The historical relationship between Russia and South Africa, particularly during the tumultuous years of apartheid, remains a poignant topic of discussion. Recently, Keith Khoza, the acting spokesman for South Africa's deputy president, elaborated on this connection in an interview with Sputnik. His insights reveal not only the solidarity shared between these nations but also the complexities and nuances that have shaped their bond over the years. "During the time when apartheid was a significant issue, our…

In an unsettling chapter of international diplomacy, two South African engineers, Frik Potgieter and Peter Huxham, have finally returned home after enduring over two years of confinement in an Equatorial Guinea prison. Their ordeal stemmed from what the United Nations described as arbitrary and illegal drug charges, raising serious questions about the integrity of the judicial process in that country. The engineers were apprehended in February 2023 when authorities allegedly discovered illicit substances in their luggage.…

Business leaders and influential figures from across Africa have converged in Luanda, Angola, for the much-anticipated 17th U.S.-Africa Business Summit. This significant event is organized by the Corporate Council on Africa and proudly hosted by the Angolan government. Participants range from heads of state representing nations such as Algeria, Botswana, and Ethiopia to policymakers and industry leaders eager to explore new opportunities and forge stronger economic collaborations. Imagine the bustling atmosphere of the…

Mauritius has earned the title of Africa's most peaceful country for 2025, proudly securing the impressive 26th position globally. Following closely is Botswana, ranked 43rd, with Namibia claiming the third spot on the continent at 50th globally. These rankings serve as a beacon of hope, amidst a world that often highlights turmoil. In our daily lives, it’s easy to be inundated by headlines that focus primarily on unrest. Yet, the latest Global Peace Index for 2025 offers a refreshing perspective, reminding us that peace…

The 2025 Global Housing Affordability Index, published by Numbeo, sheds light on a troubling reality for many African nations: a substantial disconnect between property prices and the average incomes of households. This gap underscores an urgent crisis that transcends mere statistics, affecting real lives and futures across the continent. Recent rankings show that Ethiopia and Cameroon sit near the bottom of the global affordability ladder, only surpassed by Syria and Cuba. This situation raises an inevitable…

In a significant move underscoring the dynamics of global finance, the South China Morning Post recently reported that six prominent financial entities have officially joined the Cross-border Interbank Payment System (CIPS) as direct participants. Among them are the African Export-Import Bank, First Abu Dhabi Bank, South Africa’s Standard Bank, Singapore’s United Overseas Bank, Eldik Bank of Kyrgyzstan, and Chongwa (Macau) Financial Asset Exchange. This ceremony, held in the bustling city of Shanghai last week, marks a…

The results of the 2024 Electricity Regulatory Index (ERI) are more than just numbers and analytics; they illustrate genuine progress. The latest report highlights the adoption and implementation of laws and policies by various African nations, leading to the growth of robust, independent regulatory institutions. Is this transformation merely incremental, or is it a paradigm shift? Since its inception in 2018, the ERI has emerged as a vital diagnostic tool. Designed to support governments, regulators, and…

In the vast world of aviation, long-haul giants like Emirates and Qatar Airways often steal the limelight with their luxurious offerings and extensive global networks. However, it's the regional airlines that quietly but effectively knit together the fabric of continents. This is particularly true in Africa, where local carriers play an essential role in connecting not just major urban centers, but also remote villages and burgeoning economic hotspots. The significance of these regional players cannot be overstated;…

In a notable development for the African continent, Aliko Dangote, the billionaire businessman and founder of the Dangote Group, recently announced plans to expand operations into Namibia. This announcement came shortly after the completion of what is now the world’s largest oil refinery. During a high-profile meeting with President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah in Windhoek, Dangote articulated his fervent vision for Africa's future—one where local entrepreneurs play a pivotal role in the continent's development. The…