North Africa

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…

Picture this: you're wandering through the vibrant souks of Morocco, where the air is filled with the scent of spices and the hum of bargaining voices. You find yourself standing awe-struck before the timeless pyramids of Egypt, pondering just how many stories these stones could tell. Or perhaps you venture into the heart of Africa's natural beauty on a safari in Kenya or South Africa, where wild animals roam freely against the backdrop of dramatic landscapes. This is the allure of Africa—an…

Egypt has firmly opposed recent initiatives aimed at establishing an alternative government in Sudan. The Egyptian authorities have underscored that such efforts pose a significant threat to the country's "unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity." In a region fraught with turmoil, Egypt's stance carries weight, especially given its vested interests in Sudan’s stability. For almost two years now, Sudan has been embroiled in a devastating conflict between the national army and the paramilitary group, known as the Rapid…

On a crisp Sunday morning, the sun peeked over the horizon, casting its golden hue over the Gaza Strip. But this symbolic new dawn was quickly overshadowed by the stark reality of an unyielding blockade. Israel, firm in its resolve, halted the entry of goods and essential supplies into the beleaguered territory. The catalyst behind this decisive action was a lingering conflict with Hamas over extending a tenuous ceasefire. Within the echo chamber of international diplomacy, tensions simmered. Egypt, a…

The ONLF and Ethiopia: Unfulfilled Promises and Waning Trust Mogadishu (AX) — In a highly charged statement, the Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF) has made waves by accusing the Ethiopian government of reneging on the promises of the 2018 peace agreement. This has brought a potent mix of disappointment and frustration to a head. They allege that under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, there has been systematic suppression of Somali political participation. Could this friction spell the end of a fragile…

Picture this: A colossal refinery standing tall in Nigeria, not just a symbol of industrial progress but an emblem of a nation's ambition to be a giant in the petrochemical industry. The Dangote Refinery, brainchild of Africa's renowned business magnate Aliko Dangote, is making strategic and daring moves in the global oil market. Their latest venture? A million-barrel crude oil shipment expected from Algeria in mid-March, marking an essential pivot in their crude sourcing philosophy. In the…

Building Bridges: A Strategic Alliance in the Horn of Africa In a world where strategic partnerships often define the course of international relations, the recent diplomatic mission led by Abdelatty is noteworthy. It reflects an intent to weave stronger ties within the Horn of Africa amid a dynamic global landscape. But what does this mission really entail, and why does it matter? The backdrop to Abdelatty's mission was the burgeoning tripartite framework among Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia. Born…