Southern Africa

On the vast and dynamic continent of Africa, women play an indispensable role; they form a significant portion of the population, yet often grapple with structural hurdles that dampen their ability to engage completely in the formal economic scene. But don't these barriers beg the question—just how much economic power and potential are we collectively missing out on by limiting women's full participation? As we pause today to observe International Women's Day, it's a…

Imagine being in the shoes of a leader during turbulent times. On April 10, 2023, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky embarked on a pivotal journey. His destination? South Africa—a nation renowned for its steadfast neutrality—a place where he would converse with President Cyril Ramaphosa. The objective seems straightforward: explore potential solutions to the protracted conflict that's been wreaking havoc for over three years. Vincent Magwenya, South Africa's spokesperson, candidly shared this itinerary. You…

Imagine defending a castle with crumbling walls against an unknown adversary keen on breaching its defenses. This metaphor reflects the precarious situation faced by many African nations, where a significant lack in the tank fleet can create substantial security vulnerabilities. With insurgencies, territorial disputes, and cross-border tensions simmering like a pot on a low boil, having a robust armored presence is not a mere luxury; it's a critical necessity. Picture this: a weak or aging…

The narrative of women in politics is one of inspiring transformation and ongoing challenges. From the early 20th century to the present, the path has been marked by groundbreaking changes, with countries such as New Zealand, Finland, and the United States initially breaking the mold by granting women the crucial right to vote and stand for election. Have you ever wondered what conversations took place in those turbulent times, pushing society toward this seismic shift? One could only imagine the fervor of…

Starlink: A Complex Interplay of Progress, Policy, and History Elon Musk is once again making waves, though this time it's not exclusively in the tech world. The billionaire's recent assertion that Starlink—the satellite internet enterprise of his company SpaceX—is being thwarted by South African law because he is "not Black," has stirred a hornet's nest. This provocative statement, delivered on Musk's social media platform X, has reignited debates about South Africa's intricate tapestry of business…

Since its independence from British colonial rule in 1957, Ghana has orchestrated a remarkable symphony of progress in various sectors. The gold mining industry plays a pivotal role, contributing significantly to the country’s economy. But what trajectory has it taken over the decades, and what does it suggest about the country's future? Today, Ghana stands tall as Africa’s leading gold exporter. This accolade has become both a blessing and a burden, as economic growth often shadows…

The landscape of international climate finance is witnessing a significant shift as the United States retreats from a massive $9.3 billion initiative. This pact was originally designed to assist developing nations in moving away from their reliance on coal and transitioning towards cleaner energy solutions. Let's take a journey back to 2021. It was then, amidst the buzzing atmosphere of the UN climate talks held in Glasgow, Scotland, that the Just Energy Transition Partnership was born. Comprised of…

Across the vast and diverse landscapes of Africa, the specter of hunger casts a long shadow. It's a formidable challenge—one that sees millions of people grappling to secure enough food each day. Envision the plight of families who wake up each morning, unsure of their next meal. How did a continent so rich in resources find itself in such a predicament? Nations like Somalia, Chad, and Madagascar epitomize this struggle, confronting extreme levels of malnutrition and pervasive food shortages.…

In a surprising twist, the government of Lesotho expressed its profound dismay over a statement made by former U.S. President Donald Trump. During a recent address to Congress, he asserted that "nobody has ever heard of" Lesotho while discussing proposed budget cuts, which notably include $8 million earmarked for LGBTQI+ initiatives in the country. The reaction from Lesotho was swift and resolute. Foreign Affairs Minister Lejone Mpotjoane characterized Trump's comments as "shocking." He underscored the depth of the…

In a moment that caught many by surprise, former U.S. President Donald Trump, while addressing Congress, took a swipe at foreign aid spending. Among his targets was Lesotho, a nation nestled entirely over 1,000 meters above sea level. He remarked, “Eight million dollars to promote LGBTQI+ in the African nation of Lesotho, which nobody has ever heard of,” eliciting laughter from the congressional audience. This statement did not sit well with Lesotho’s Foreign Minister, Lejone Mpotjoane, who found it "quite…