North Africa

Unraveling the Thread: The Economic Impact of Clothing Prices The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is an economic concept many of us hear about, but few truly grasp. It consists of various elements, with food, clothing, and housing being the most significant. However, there are other interesting items on this list—recreation, health, and education, to name a few. My friend once said, "It’s like trying to balance plates on a stick—you’ve got to keep an eye on each one." Have you ever noticed…

In the vast, ever-evolving landscape of African economies, a quiet resilience often dominates the narrative. While major players like South Africa and Nigeria have been grappling with economic challenges and currency depreciation, Ghana, with its fortitude, presents a compelling case study in banking resilience. As the world turns its gaze towards West Africa, Ghanaian banks stand firm, holding strong Tier 1 capital positions that inspire confidence and stability. Performance of…

In the heart of Mogadishu, a momentous occasion unfolded on a significant Thursday as Ethiopia's Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed, touched down in Somalia's capital. His agenda was clear: to bridge the chasm that had formed between Ethiopia and Somalia. The reception, marked by reverence, was just the prelude to the dialogues expected to reshape their bilateral relations. History has a peculiar way of weaving its narrative, and in this tale, the frostiness of relations dates back to January 2024. It was a time when…

Hurghada, nestled along the sun-kissed shores of the Red Sea in Egypt, is more than just a tourist hotspot. Once a quaint fishing village, this vibrant coastal city has blossomed into a premier destination for travelers worldwide. Imagine waking up to the gentle sound of waves, the sun coaxing you out for a morning dive. Here, in its crystalline waters, you'll find an underwater spectacle of coral reefs and marine life dancing just beneath the surface.…

Food inflation looms as a profound challenge for numerous African nations, exacerbating existing economic hardships and amplifying food insecurity for millions of citizens. Life in various parts of Africa is already mired in complexity, as many countries grapple with systemic issues. With the spike in food prices, the situation is akin to salt on an open wound—undermining not only household well-being but threatening the broader economic landscape. Consider a family struggling to make ends meet, now facing the relentless…

In a world where international dynamics shift like sands in the desert, the pursuit of stronger partnerships is a journey not for the faint-hearted. On a bustling Tuesday in the historic capital of Tripoli, this pursuit took a significant step forward. Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud embarked on an official visit to Libya, an encounter filled with promising intentions and a refreshingly candid dialogue. Mohamed al-Menfi, the pragmatic chairman of the Libyan Presidential Council, echoed a sentiment that seemed…

Africa, while home to a vast spectrum of cultures and landscapes, encounters a unique geographical challenge—being landlocked. Surprisingly, one-third of the continent's countries do not have direct access to the sea. Yet, the presence of seaports on the African coastline is a beacon of economic hope and utility, facilitating access to international markets for even the most inland businesses. These maritime gateways are not just crucial for those positioned at the water’s edge, but they extend their opportunity-laden arms…

Global Brands: Nations Beyond Borders Imagine a world where countries are more than just landmasses; they are vibrant brands with a heartbeat and personality. Some nations are instantly recognizable, wield immense influence on the global stage and attract investments like a powerful magnet. But what makes a country a powerhouse brand? It's not just economic clout but also a blend of culture, innovation, and a generous dash of goodwill. Take the United States, for instance. An economic juggernaut that, come 2025,…

In the ever-evolving landscape of global aviation, the year 2024 beckoned with both challenges and achievements. A reminder of both human enterprise and its vulnerabilities, Africa's aviation landscape serves as a poignant reflection of this dual narrative. With ten incidents recorded, Africa positioned itself as the region with the second-highest number of plane crashes. An unsettling statistic indeed, it mirrors the perpetual conflict between ambition and the precarious nature of modern advancements. African…

Mogadishu (AX) – The rhythmic hum of helicopter blades slicing through the air above Mogadishu heralds a new chapter in regional cooperation against the persistent threat of Al-Shabaab. In a remarkable display of unity and purpose, five African nations, each carrying the weight of their own hopes and histories, are contributing a formidable force of 11,900 troops to the African Union's recently unveiled Somalia Mission, aptly named AUSSOM. It's interesting to note that three of Somalia's immediate neighbors—Uganda,…