Southern Africa

Upcoming US-Africa Summit: A New Chapter in Relations The anticipation surrounding the upcoming summit in Washington is palpable, as media outlets such as Semafor and Africa Intelligence confirm that heads of state from several Western and Central African nations will convene for an important dialogue. This summit promises to tackle pressing issues like trade, regional security, and investment opportunities that could dramatically reshape U.S.-Africa relations. Among the notable attendees is former President…

Recent funding from the African Development Bank (AfDB) signifies a pivotal moment for Pretoria, effectively invigorating its broader infrastructure reform agenda. This initiative aims to revitalize public services, address pressing energy constraints, and set the stage for sustainable economic growth in the long run. It’s a move that raises crucial questions: What does this mean for the average South African? Can we truly see a shift in our daily lives as public services improve? The announcement came on a…

In the midst of a heated debate surrounding federal spending, particularly directed towards clean energy and electric vehicles, former President Donald Trump has ignited a firestorm of criticism. This commentary has seen Trump characterizing such investments not just as questionable but as outright wasteful—an assertion emblematic of his long-standing disdain for what he deems governmental favoritism towards a select group of corporations. “Elon may get more subsidies than any human being in history, by far, and…

Namibia has officially embarked on a pivotal journey by launching its participation in the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). This significant milestone is the culmination of years of commitment and strategic planning, marking a promising chapter for the nation within the broader African trade landscape. As one of the earliest ratifiers of AfCFTA, Namibia has set a precedent. The government's proactive approach culminated in the gazetting of its tariff offer in December 2024, a critical step designed to…

In an important development this week, South Africa's Department of Trade, Industry and Competition announced that the nation has formally requested an extension to finalize a crucial trade agreement before the imposition of a hefty 31% tariff on U.S. imports from South Africa. This new tariff, if enacted, could drastically alter the landscape of trade relations between these two nations. As part of their negotiation strategy, South African officials are advocating for a significant reduction in the tariff,…

Mali has officially taken control of the Yatela and Morila gold mines—two sites that had previously been left abandoned by their foreign owners, according to a government announcement over the weekend. This significant move reflects a broader trend in West Africa, where military-led governments are increasingly asserting control over strategic natural resources in response to soaring gold prices. The aim? To invigorate local economies and lessen reliance on foreign entities. Gold is not just a shiny metal; it represents…

The ambitious billionaire Elon Musk is making waves yet again. His satellite internet venture, Starlink, is setting its sights on a hefty R2 billion investment—roughly $112.7 million—in South Africa. This investment appears to be a strategic move to navigate the complexities of the country’s Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) requirements. But what does this mean for both Starlink and the South African landscape? Starlink has openly expressed its intent to forge partnerships with local South African businesses to…

Recent statistics from Numbeo have revealed that Ghana stands at 12th among 23 African nations grappling with a high cost of living. This data prompts us to explore not just the numbers, but the real implications these figures hold for the everyday lives of Ghanaians. The Cost of Living Index in Ghana is reported at 30.6, broken down further into specific categories: rent is measured at 12.1, while essential groceries are sitting at 33.3. Interestingly, despite the high cost of living, Ghana has recorded five…

In a moment that underscores the intricate web of global politics, Russia has reiterated its strong support for South Africa’s presidency of the G20. This backing highlights Pretoria’s role as a crucial player in steering the focus of the Group of Twenty towards the needs and aspirations of the Global South. With a world increasingly defined by its geopolitical divides, this cooperation signals a shift that many observers have deemed necessary. But can the G20 truly evolve to more inclusively represent developing nations?…

Strategic Military Growth: A Call to African Governments Recent events serve as a compelling reminder for African governments: the time for strategic preparation has never been more urgent. As various challenges loom on the horizon—ranging from terrorism to political instability—these nations must not only adapt but also anticipate the landscape of tomorrow. A robust military presence is no longer simply an option; it has become a necessity. In this context, the enhancement of military capability within African…