East Africa

Embracing the Digital Revolution: Kenya’s Path to a Tech-Savvy Future In our current era, marked by a profound technological revolution, it’s hard to overstate the pivotal role that China has played in shaping the digital landscape, particularly for countries like Kenya. Through extensive investments in digital infrastructure and educational initiatives, China lays the groundwork for Kenya’s transformation into a technological hub. Companies such as Huawei have not only constructed essential communication…

Despite the harsh realities of widespread poverty, underfunded healthcare systems, educational disparities, and inadequate infrastructure that many African countries face, there’s a glimmer of hope emerging. Enter the wave of billionaire-led philanthropy, a movement that is making palpable contributions across various sectors. This philanthropic endeavor, while addressing profound challenges, offers a fresh perspective on how wealth can serve as a tool for change. When we think about African philanthropy, names…

African Philanthropy: A New Dawn In a world where the headlines often spotlight challenges such as poverty, underfunded healthcare systems, and inadequate educational resources, there's a compelling narrative unfolding in Africa—one that resonates with optimism and resilience. While these challenges remain persistent, we are witnessing a remarkable wave of billionaire-driven philanthropy that is beginning to make a significant impact across various sectors. Figures like Aliko Dangote from Nigeria, Patrice…

The University of Zimbabwe (UZ) recently made headlines with its controversial decision to replace striking lecturers with part-time staff, offering a meager rate of just US$5.50 per hour. Of this amount, a staggering 40%—equivalent to US$2.20—will be disbursed in local currency, subject to income tax. Whose idea was this, one might wonder, to disregard the commitment and expertise that full-time educators bring to the table? As the sun rises over the university campus, classrooms remain eerily quiet. Striking lecturers…

President Ruto's Vision for Affordable Housing in Mukuru, Nairobi On a significant day in his tenure, President William Ruto delivered a transformative moment for the residents of Mukuru in Nairobi. On Tuesday, he proudly handed over the keys to 1,080 affordable housing units, a gesture he described as the pinnacle of his political career. The excitement among the community was palpable, and it was evident that this was not merely a ceremonial act but rather a profound step toward changing lives. These newly inaugurated…

Presidential Stance on Peace: President Samia Suluhu of Tanzania Responds to Political Tensions Tanzania’s President, Samia Suluhu, has recently spoken out about the concerning situation surrounding the detention and deportation of several prominent Kenyans. This event unfolded over the course of just two days, sparking heated discussions and a flurry of emotions on both sides of the border. As she addressed the nation at a public forum on May 19, President Suluhu took a firm stance, asserting that attempts by Kenyan…

Indonesia’s recent announcement to raise its export tax on crude palm oil (CPO) from 7.5% to 10% is stirring ripples across global markets. While this change is significant for many countries worldwide, the ramifications are particularly acute for Africa, which heavily relies on palm oil imports from Southeast Asia. For many African nations, the news of this new levy, set to take effect on May 17, 2025, poses a troubling scenario: heightened import costs. It’s a reality that can significantly affect local economies and…

Nairobi (AX) — A significant shift is underway in Ethiopia’s Somali Region, where religious and community leaders are championing a movement aimed at redefining the marriage customs that have, over time, morphed into overwhelming financial burdens for families. This initiative, encapsulated in a binding decree, aims to alleviate the pressures surrounding wedding festivities while encouraging young couples to take the plunge into marriage. This decree, spearheaded by Hamaro’s Islamic Affairs Council and supported by local…

In a significant development for the South African technology landscape, the government is contemplating extending a special exemption to Elon Musk, allowing his ambitious satellite internet service, Starlink, to operate within its borders. This move bypasses the stringent Black ownership requirements that characterize the country’s economic policies, particularly those aimed at promoting Black Economic Empowerment. This proposed exemption emerges amid rising tensions involving not only Musk but also former U.S.…

The Landscape of Government Debt in Africa: A Deeper Look Borrowing is often seen as a lifeline in the complex world of economics. When used wisely, it fuels growth, supports essential services, and can bolster a country's financial stability. However, this financial instrument becomes problematic when a nation’s general government debt surpasses the size of its economy. One may wonder: at what point does this borrowing become a burden rather than a boon? The ratio of general government debt to Gross Domestic…