East Africa

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 Unsettling Reality of Activism: A Tale from Tanzania On a fateful day, Ugandan activist Agather Atuhaire and Kenyan counterpart Boniface Mwangi stepped into the vibrant yet tumultuous atmosphere of Dar es Salaam. Anticipating their participation in the first court appearance of Tanzanian opposition leader Tundu Lissu, neither expected the harrowing experience that awaited them. As they stood before the media in Nairobi on June 2, 2025, the shadows of their ordeal loomed large over their…

The Remarkable Transformations Shaping Africa's Future In the vibrant discussions that unfolded at two landmark events this year—the African Women's Leadership Conference and the Creative & Innovative Industries Conference—delegates collectively embraced a vision for Africa that is both inclusive and forward-looking. The conversations touched on critical themes such as diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), while forging pathways for sustainable growth across the continent. What does this collective vision mean for…

The Journey of Hoyo: A Culinary Success Story It's not every day that a decade-old business poised for immense growth captures the essence of cultural heritage while addressing community needs. Hoyo, a company founded by three Somali sisters, is embarking on an exciting chapter as they prepare to move into a $1.6 million commercial kitchen located at Midtown Global Market. This move reflects Hoyo's ambitious plan to triple its size in the wake of new contracts, including notable partnerships with Lunds & Byerlys. In…

In the digital age, visuals can encapsulate stories that words sometimes struggle to convey. The poignant photo collage featuring activists Agather Atuhaire and Boniface Mwangi vividly highlights their brave stand against adversity. Yet, behind the smiles and determination, there lies a harrowing tale that continues to affect not just the individuals involved, but the broader fabric of civil rights in the region. Recently, a coalition of human rights organizations has taken on the monumental task of advocating for…

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…