Southern Africa

Leadership Transitions at Continental Reinsurance Holdings: A New Era Begins In an exciting turn of events, Mr. Lawrence Nazare has been appointed as the Group Managing Director of Continental Reinsurance Holdings, situated in Botswana. This marks a pivotal moment in his career following the completion of his role as Managing Director and CEO of Continental Reinsurance Plc, Nigeria, which he concluded in December 2024. Within this new position, Mr. Nazare is set to steer the Group’s pan-African operations and provide…

The anticipated meeting between South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and U.S. President Donald Trump was not just a diplomatic formality; it was a significant moment laden with implications for bilateral relations. As the world watches with bated breath, the backdrop of recent tensions adds layers of complexity to the situation. Issues such as the shifting U.S. foreign policy, South Africa’s position within global arenas like BRICS, trade negotiations, and mounting international conflicts are among the many factors…

Mali is forging a new path in its quest for economic autonomy. Recently, the country began the construction of a state-of-the-art gold refinery, powered by Russian backing. This strategic initiative, championed by its military-led government, aims to enhance the nation's control over its precious natural resources. But what does this really mean for Mali and its future? The newly established refinery is set to be a significant player in Mali's economy, with the Malian government holding a majority stake of 62%.…

Algeria's New Law: A Paradigm Shift in Mining and Economic Diversification Algeria's parliament recently approved a landmark law that transforms the landscape of its mining industry. This significant legislation allows foreign companies to own up to 80% of mining projects, signaling a bold new direction for this OPEC nation as it strives to diversify its economy. Have we reached a turning point in Algeria’s economic narrative? Only time will tell. A resounding majority of lawmakers supported this initiative during…

As cities across Africa experience rapid expansion, the importance of efficient traffic management becomes increasingly evident. Those urban centers that prioritize seamless transportation systems are likely to attract investment, tourism, and skilled talent. But what does this really mean for the heart and soul of a city? Imagine walking through a bustling marketplace or a tranquil park, both made vibrant by the people who can move freely and with ease. It's fascinating to consider how time saved through a…

Last year, South Africa proudly took the helm of the G20 presidency, launching a robust campaign to showcase its diverse assets while advocating for a broader African narrative. This November, on the 22nd and 23rd, Johannesburg will host the annual summit, marking a historic first for the continent. Leaders from the 19 largest economies, alongside representatives from the European Union and the African Union, will gather to deliberate on pressing global issues. In an interview with AllAfrica, Neville Matjie, head of Brand…

This Father’s Day, an ode echoed from Namibia to Kenya, resonating with profound truths about the pivotal role of fathers in our lives. Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah articulated a heartfelt reminder: in an era increasingly fraught with challenges, when children often find themselves on precarious paths, the influence of fathers as positive exemplars is indispensable. This statement raises an important question—what exactly makes a father a role model? Is it just their presence, or is it the way they navigate…

As the specter of conflict looms larger in the Middle East, African nations are stepping forward, echoing global calls for restraint and diplomacy. Their voices resonate with a shared understanding: peace in one corner of the world is intrinsically linked to peace everywhere. This awareness comes in the wake of Israel's massive Operation Rising Lion, a military offensive that has sent ripples of concern throughout the international community, especially after its targeted airstrikes on Iranian nuclear and strategic…

South Africa's Military Withdrawal from the DRC: A Moment of Reflection In a recent announcement reported by Sputnik Afrique, South Africa’s Defence Minister, Angie Motshekga, warmly welcomed a contingent of 249 soldiers returning from duty in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Her words resonated with both pride and poignancy as she extolled their “unwavering patriotism” in one of the African continent’s most tumultuous zones. It brings to mind the dual nature of military service—intense duty and the…

The economic landscape of Africa continues to evolve, and one of the markers of this transformation is the Forbes Global 2000 ranking. In 2025, 17 African companies made it to this prestigious list. South Africa leads the charge with an impressive 14 entries, followed by Morocco with 2, and Egypt with 1. This strong representation is more than just numbers; it tells a story of ambition, resilience, and strategic growth against a backdrop of global challenges. According to Forbes, the 2025 Global 2000 companies…