Southern Africa

When navigating urban landscapes, it often feels as if we’re playing a complex game of chess against time—only to find ourselves frequently checkmated by relentless traffic. These cities consistently rank high on the traffic index, a measure that evaluates various factors including traffic volume, travel delays, and the inherent inefficiencies present within their road systems. Isn't it interesting to consider how something as routine as commuting can influence so many aspects of our daily lives? Traffic isn't…

Zimbabwe's Strategic Shift in Lithium Exports: A Bold Move Toward Local Processing Zambia is set to implement a significant change in its mineral export policy by banning the export of lithium concentrates starting January 2027. This decision, announced by Mines Minister Winston Chitando, is part of a broader initiative aimed at enhancing local value addition within the mining sector. “With effect from January 2027, the export of lithium concentrates will no longer be allowed,” he stated during a press briefing in Harare.…

Recently, China has unveiled an ambitious initiative aimed at providing zero-tariff treatment to all 53 African countries that maintain diplomatic ties with it. This development represents a significant step towards deepening economic cooperation and positions China as a key player in trade and investment on the African continent. But as this partnership blossoms, it raises questions about the implications for regional relations and the global economic landscape. Notably, this offer does not extend to Eswatini,…

The recent statements made by Aliou Touankara, a member of Mali's National Transitional Council, unveil a growing frustration within Bamako regarding Ukraine amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Sahel region. This sentiment is not just a fleeting reaction but an indicator of the ripple effects that international conflicts can have on local politics. “I believe the first step has already been taken—diplomatic relations with Ukraine have been severed. It would also be prudent to consider banning Ukrainian…

Sarah Aderibigbe, known to the world as Ayra Starr, has made headlines once again. At the prestigious 25th annual BET Awards held at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, she walked away with the coveted title of Best International Act for 2025. Her victory was remarkable, especially when considering the formidable competition she faced. Among the nominees were notable names such as Tyla from South Africa, Rema representing Nigeria, and Black Sherif from Ghana. The list also included talents from across the globe, including…

The recent tumultuous weather has wreaked havoc in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape, leaving behind a trail of destruction that no one anticipated. Over 80 homes have been obliterated, and more than 500 families are grappling with the aftermath. The chilling scenes painted by heavy snowfall, fierce winds, and violent hailstorms in KZN speak volumes about nature's unpredictable fury and its impact on fragile infrastructure. Power outages ripple through communities, leaving them in darkness and uncertainty. Meanwhile, the…

Namibia's Pursuit of Nuclear Power: A Turning Point in Energy Development Exciting discussions are emerging in Southern Africa as Namibia takes pivotal steps toward constructing its first nuclear power plant. In a groundbreaking partnership with the state-owned Russian company Rosatom, Namibia aims to tap into its rich natural resources and reduce its reliance on imported electricity. Isn’t it fascinating how a single project can potentially reshape an entire nation's energy landscape? As it stands, South…

The Journey of Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG): A Hopeful Yet Shaky Future In a recent statement reflecting its ongoing commitment to the nation, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has expressed a distinct interest in Zimbabwe's new currency, ZiG. The organization has articulated its desire to see this currency evolve into a “fully recognized national currency.” This development is part of broader considerations regarding placing Zimbabwe under a staff-monitored program. But what does this mean for the everyday…

Understanding the High Cost of Living in Africa: A Crucial Economic Challenge In recent years, the issue of rising living costs has emerged as a formidable challenge faced by many African nations. Though global inflation and shifts in the market play their part, it's important to understand that factors such as poor economic management, currency devaluation, the elimination of subsidies, and an excessive dependence on imports have significantly worsened the situation. As we explore this critical topic, we…

Unlocking Potential: Zambia's Electric Vehicle Initiative Zambia is embarking on an ambitious journey to engage with automakers, specifically aiming to attract electric vehicle (EV) component manufacturers. The idea is simple yet profound: establish production plants near the country’s rich copper mining sites. Why is this important? Copper is a critical raw material integral to electric vehicle engines, and Zambia, as Africa’s second-largest copper producer, is positioning itself as a vital player in the EV supply chain.…