North Africa

When we look at the oil sector, one crucial indicator captures the pulse of the industry: the rig count. At a glance, a high rig count generally signifies a flourishing oil economy. This number reflects the vibrancy of exploration and production (E&P) activities, which in turn attract significant investments, create job opportunities, and ultimately enhance revenue streams. In a way, it’s like a heartbeat—the stronger it is, the healthier the industry appears. In numerous African nations, where oil and gas…

Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote has embarked on an ambitious journey to transform Africa's agricultural landscape. Recently, he announced plans to significantly expand the $2.5 billion Dangote Fertilizer Plant, a move that aligns with a broader vision to foster industrial transformation across the continent. This initiative is not merely business; it’s a strategic step toward self-sufficiency for African farmers, who have long faced challenges stemming from dependency on imported fertilizers. The forthcoming…

In the ever-evolving landscape of global finance, certain currencies can often surprise us—sometimes for the better, sometimes for the worse. Over the past year, we’ve witnessed a notable decline in the value of several currencies, particularly the Egyptian pound and the Nigerian naira. This downturn can be attributed to various factors, including policy missteps, rampant inflation, and an over-reliance on imports. What’s striking is how these economic forces coalesce, often leaving citizens grappling with the real…

Insights from the Latest OPEC Report: Navigating the Changing Landscape of Oil Prices The latest report from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) unveiled some intriguing insights into the dynamics of global oil markets. In May, the OPEC Reference Basket (ORB) saw a notable decline, falling by $5.36—or 7.8%—to settle at $63.62 per barrel. The fluctuation in oil prices invariably affects economies and consumers alike, leaving one to ponder: what does this mean for the average individual and the…

African Trade: A Resilience Story After a challenging year in 2023, the winds are changing for trade among African nations. As we step into 2024, intra-African trade has surged impressively by 12.4%, reaching an eye-catching figure of $220.3 billion. This rebound encapsulates not just numbers; it conveys a spirit of resilience that echoes the diverse experiences across the continent. However, how did we emerge from the shadows of a 5.9% drop the previous year?…

A recent report from the World Bank titled Tracking SDG 7: The Energy Progress Report 2025 reveals some troubling realities regarding electricity access, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. It's disheartening but not surprising to learn that a large proportion of the world's electricity deficits are concentrated in this region. As investment in energy infrastructure continues to lag, the urgent need for improvements is clearer than ever. Despite various initiatives aimed at boosting electrification across the…

On May 19, families of detained Moroccans took a courageous step by submitting a formal complaint to Morocco’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They called for immediate intervention, arguing that their sons’ continued detention signals a grave violation of legal due process. These families recounted heart-wrenching tales of deception. Their sons, they assert, were lured to Somalia under the promise of legitimate employment but found themselves ensnared in a web of accusations related to terrorism. This recent appeal unfolded…

Setting the Stage: Ethiopia’s New Chapter in Oil Exports Ethiopia has taken a significant stride forward in its economic development by joining the ranks of Africa's oil-exporting nations. This pivotal moment places Ethiopia alongside established producers like Nigeria, Angola, Algeria, and Libya, marking the dawn of a new era in its energy aspirations and economic landscape. It invites us to ponder: how will this transition reshape not just Ethiopia, but the entire Horn of Africa? The announcement was made by…

2025 Global Peace Index: A Declining Trend in Global Peacefulness The 2025 Global Peace Index (GPI) presents a stark reality: for the 13th time in the last 17 years, global peace is on the decline. Over the past year alone, the average level of peacefulness has taken a hit, decreasing by 0.36%. It’s a sobering statistic that signals the sixth consecutive year where we witness a slip in global tranquility. What has led us to this state? And what does it mean for our collective future? While much of the world’s focus has…

One of the primary indicators used to assess the vitality of a country's economy is the gross domestic product (GDP). At its core, GDP encapsulates the total value of all goods and services produced within a nation over a specified period, typically a year. While seemingly straightforward, this figure carries profound implications, reflecting not only economic activity but also the overall well-being of a country's inhabitants. Throughout history, certain industries have emerged as the backbone of economic…