Southern Africa

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…

The spotlight shone brightly on African nations during the prestigious 2025 World Travel Awards (WTA) Africa & Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony, which took place on June 28 at the exquisite Johari Rotana Hotel in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The event served not merely as a ceremony but as a gathering point for leaders in tourism and hospitality from across the continent, all coming together to celebrate remarkable achievements in travel, destination development, and service innovation. This year, a staggering 80 award…

Each year, TIME's renowned annual list shines a spotlight on 100 companies worldwide that are making remarkable strides in their respective fields. Now in its fifth year, this esteemed recognition celebrates businesses innovating, disrupting, and transforming industries. It's an opportunity to reflect on the stories behind these brands and to consider the future paths they may lead us down. Moniepoint Inc Among the standout companies this year is Moniepoint Inc from…

When discussions about Africa’s development arise, the narrative often gravitates toward foreign aid or investments. But what if the keys to building Africa’s vibrant future lie right here, within our own borders? Recent insights from the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) indicate precisely that. Astonishingly, Africa is home to over $1.1 trillion in institutional capital derived from domestic sources such as pension funds, insurance companies, sovereign wealth funds, and development banks. Imagine that…

Each year, TIME magazine curates a prestigious list that shines a spotlight on 100 companies from diverse industries around the globe, acknowledging those that are making extraordinarily impactful contributions to their fields. Now in its fifth iteration, this list celebrates not just innovation, but the spirit of resilience and adaptability that defines contemporary business. Moniepoint Inc Among this year’s honorees is Nigeria's own Moniepoint Inc., which earned its place in the Leaders category alongside…

The Rise of Millionaires: A Global Perspective on Wealth Growth The landscape of wealth is shifting dramatically across the globe, with numerous countries poised to welcome more individuals into the esteemed "millionaire club." As we observe significant growth in wealth per adult worldwide, it's essential to consider what drives this relentless rise. What stories lie behind the numbers? And how might this financial advancement shape our societies in the years to come? According to the…