North Africa

Edited By Ali Musa Axadle Times International–Monitoring. In a world where the pulse of economies sets the pace for global progress, the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking illuminates the forefront contenders. Currently, the global economic stage is dominated by several nations renowned for their robust competitiveness. Yet, what exactly makes an economy competitive on the world stage? Is it solely about GDP numbers, or is there more beneath the surface? The most competitive economies in the world are distinguished by…

Africa's external debt levels have long been a topic of concern. High-interest rates and the slow maturity of local financial ecosystems add layers to this complex issue. Does this situation reflect the broader global economic landscape, or is it particular to Africa's unique geopolitical fabric? There's a constant increase in the need for foreign capital to sponsor imports, and this naturally inflates the external debt burden. As highlighted in a report by Afreximbank Research, Africa relies significantly on…

Agriculture is undeniably the lifeblood of Africa, weaving its influence through every village and stretching out across the vast savannahs. Whether it’s the age-old traditions held close in family farms or sprawling commercial enterprises, the act of cultivating the land is pivotal. It doesn’t merely feed millions; it powers the economy and has the untapped potential to shape a brighter future. An African proverb notably states, "He who learns, teaches." Agriculture is perhaps Africa’s most profound teacher—a silent…

Mogadishu (AX) – On a bustling Monday evening, Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre touched down in Cairo, Egypt. His arrival signals Somalia's commitment to navigating stormy diplomatic waters amid a mounting crisis. The prime minister is poised to lend his voice at an emergency summit of the Arab League, convened against the backdrop of escalating tensions in Gaza. A confluence of political will and humanitarian urgency, this summit is scheduled to unfold on March 4. Central to the discussions will be a…

Analyzing the CPI: A Journey through Clothing and Footwear Costs Have you ever wondered how the cost of the clothes you wear is determined? Every stitch, button, and thread of our outfits is intertwined with the financial fabric known as the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Historically, CPI has been composed of several components, with housing, clothes, and food leading the charge. Think about it—while food undeniably sits at the throne of essentials, for many, clothes follow right at its heels. And isn't it…

Engagement in geopolitics often unveils stories of spirited debates and shared visions, particularly when discussing strategically vital regions. A recent encounter at the crossroads of diplomacy highlights this truth. Minister of Foreign Affairs Badr Abdelatty, representing Egypt, alongside Eritrea's President Isaias Afwerki, has vocally reiterated their steadfast opposition to the participation of non-littoral nations in the governance and security affairs of the Red Sea. Their joint dismissal of external involvement…

There's something remarkably exhilarating about big changes in industries, especially when those changes bring about a shift in how things have been operating for years. One wonders: Are such monumental changes noticeable immediately, or do they require a subtle, prolonged observation before their full impact becomes evident? In the bustling world of oil refining, the Dangote Refinery, towering over the skylines of Nigeria, has embarked on a noteworthy journey. Recently, it achieved a significant…

On the vast African continent, the spotlight often shifts between different global players vying for influence. China, long regarded as a formidable competitor, is frequently mentioned when discussing the power dynamics in Africa. But can it actually surpass the United States as the leading provider of aid to Africa? The answer is a bit more complex, woven through economic, political, and strategic layers. China's financial footprint in Africa has grown substantially in recent years. With massive…

When we look into the intricate web of rental trends worldwide, certain dominant factors come into play. Economic conditions, housing affordability, government policies, and, indeed, cultural preferences each hold sway over how rental markets evolve. Pause and reflect—is it merely a roof over one's head, or a quest for freedom that fuels this global inclination towards renting? Top 10 Countries with Remarkable Rental Populations in 2024 According to Eurostat,…

Imagine you're weighing the potential of your next big investment. Wouldn't it be intriguing to know that the humble rental yield might just be your crystal ball? Gross rental yield is much like a financial compass for many investors, acting as a core metric to measure the rental income's annual return against a property’s purchase price. It’s fascinating how this indicator helps us candidly evaluate property markets globally. As of June 2024, we delve into the dynamics shaping these yields—a portrayal…