Southern Africa

In recent discussions, South Africa has firmly rejected the perception that it harbors anti-American sentiments, reiterating its dedication to forging a robust trade agreement with the United States. This commitment comes at a time when geopolitical narratives can often cloud intentions. President Donald Trump has previously voiced concerns about countries he associates with the "anti-American policies" of the BRICS bloc, suggesting that these nations, including South Africa and Egypt, may soon face an added tariff of 10%.…

President Cyril Ramaphosa has affirmed that the Government of National Unity's National Dialogue will indeed move forward, despite the Democratic Alliance's (DA) recent withdrawal. In his remarks, he criticized this decision, labeling it a sign of a "poverty of good principles." Zukile Majova, writing for Scrolla in his column "Real Politics," characterized the DA's exit as a significant misstep. He argued that this choice showcases a disconnect from the everyday South African populace, especially among Black voters. Majova…

The Geopolitical Ripple Effects of Trump's Tariff Threats On a recent Sunday, the atmosphere of global diplomacy was stirred by none other than former President Donald Trump. In a statement that reverberated well beyond U.S. borders, Trump issued a stern warning to nations contemplating partnerships with the BRICS bloc. He labeled their policies as “anti-American,” threatening an additional 10% tariff on countries that align themselves with this coalition of emerging economies. This declaration has raised eyebrows and…

In the midst of a turbulent political climate, President Cyril Ramaphosa has labeled the recent allegations against Police Minister Senzo Mchunu as a "grave national security concern." This statement came in light of serious accusations made by Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, a leading police official, who has stirred the waters by alleging that there has been interference in investigations into political assassinations. These revelations emerged while Ramaphosa was attending the BRICS summit, a critical platform for international…

A recent study entitled AFRAA Taxes and Charges Study Review 2024 has shed light on a significant issue affecting travelers in Nigeria. The report highlights that Nigerians are paying an astonishing average of $180 in taxes and charges for each international flight, a figure that stands in stark contrast to the continental average of just $68. This disparity raises an important question: what does this mean for ordinary Nigerians who wish to explore the world or conduct business abroad? The financial burden,…

African Currency and Trade Dynamics: A Comprehensive Overview In May 2025, nearly half of the currencies across the African continent experienced depreciation. This trend highlights persistent foreign exchange pressures, underscored by a range of ongoing reforms and stable economic growth. Insights gleaned from the African Export-Import Bank’s Monthly Developments in the African Macroeconomic Environment report, published in June 2025, illuminate this complex landscape. The bank's…

Freedom and Democracy in Africa: A 2025 Perspective In recent years, we have witnessed a disheartening trend where some nations deepen their commitment to civil liberties and democratic norms, while others regress into authoritarianism. The world seems to be at a crossroads, and how we navigate this path may fundamentally shape the next generation of our global community. Have we considered what this divide means for our shared future? According to the 2025 Freedom House report, we are…

Zimbabwe’s gold-backed currency, the ZiG, recently achieved a significant milestone by recording its largest single-day gain against the U.S. dollar in 2023. This remarkable change can be attributed to a surge in gold production alongside a bolstered reserve of foreign currency, reflecting a new chapter in Zimbabwe’s economic narrative. On Friday, the ZiG appreciated by 0.2%, trading at 26.89 per dollar. This shift was particularly noteworthy, considering it marked only the twelfth instance of the currency…

In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court has upheld the conviction of Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko for defamation, a verdict first delivered in January 2024. This decision pertains to accusations against him for attempting to tarnish the reputation of former tourism minister Mame Mbaye Niang. The ramifications extend far beyond the courtroom, playing a pivotal role in the political landscape of the nation. As the Supreme Court dismissed Sonko’s appeal for a reversal, the implications for his political career became…

London Mayor Sadiq Khan Embarks on Groundbreaking Trade Mission to Africa In a decision that notably underscores the evolving geopolitical landscape, London Mayor Sadiq Khan is preparing for a significant visit to four pivotal African cities: Lagos, Accra, Johannesburg, and Cape Town. This trip, part of a broader UK-Africa engagement initiative, aims to enhance trade, foster investment, and cultivate cultural cooperation between the United Kingdom and the African continent. Such a tour is not merely…