Southern Africa

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…

The Backbone of Ground Forces: Tanks in Africa Tanks serve as an integral backbone for ground forces across the globe. These mighty machines are not just heavily armed and well-armored vehicles; they represent critical strategic assets that can tip the scales in conflicts. One might wonder, why do we place so much emphasis on these steel giants? The answer lies in the profound influence they exert on both national defense and international diplomacy. In today's complex…

A Journey Through Africa's Economic Prosperity: Unveiling Key Exports and Future Potential Each nation, in its own unique way, weaves its resources into the fabric of the global economy. But have you ever paused to think about what makes a country's wealth tick? What products propel them forward in the complex dance of international trade? Africa, endowed with a wealth of natural treasures, stands proudly on the world stage as a significant player in global commerce. However, beyond its…

Balancing work and life—a perplexing jigsaw puzzle for many, isn't it? Yet, in the vibrant tapestry of Africa, where economic forces and cultural threads weave intricate and sometimes demanding expectations, it presents a unique conundrum. Perhaps you’ve wondered: How do individuals in such a diverse and rapidly changing landscape navigate this balance? For countless Africans, work transcends the simplicity of a paycheck. It can often be considered a lifeline—an essential means of survival.…

Shaping the Future: Global Automotive Industry in 2024 As we step into 2024, the world of automaking finds itself at a fascinating juncture. Traditional powerhouses—Japanese, German, and American car manufacturers—continue to dominate the automotive landscape. Yet, an undeniable momentum is building behind Chinese and Korean brands, threatening the status quo with their innovation and burgeoning global presence. What stories are these changing times telling us? The Global Automotive Leaders Across the world, automakers…

Upon his return to the White House, President Donald Trump has made it abundantly clear what his administration aims to tackle: the sprawling issue of federal waste. It’s a topic that’s been at the heart of many political debates, and one that begs the question: how do we ensure taxpayer money is used judiciously? The President, with his characteristic resolve, has embarked on what he describes as a crusade against wasteful spending. The administration took a notable step forward by…

Edited By Ali Musa Axadle Times International–Monitoring. In a world where the pulse of economies sets the pace for global progress, the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking illuminates the forefront contenders. Currently, the global economic stage is dominated by several nations renowned for their robust competitiveness. Yet, what exactly makes an economy competitive on the world stage? Is it solely about GDP numbers, or is there more beneath the surface? The most competitive economies in the world are distinguished by…

ECOWAS Currency: Bridging West Africa The idea of a unified West African currency, known as the Eco, is as ambitious as it is inspiring. Imagine a future where crossing borders within West Africa doesn’t involve exchanging currencies—a future where trade and interaction flow seamlessly across countries. This is the vision behind the Eco, a currency anticipated to act as a unified medium of exchange, fostering trade and economic unity across the region. During a meeting held in Abuja—the heart of Nigeria’s administrative…

The Future of Payments and Financial Inclusion Across Africa Founder and CEO, Nkebet Mesele, discusses the launch of Intreensic, a payments education and advisory group, and its significance for payments and financial inclusion across Africa. Exploring Payment Evolution What piques your interest the most about the transformation in payments, and how do women play a role in this journey, particularly in Africa? The payment evolution is indeed fascinating. From my early days in the industry,…

The controversial bill aims to escalate the prison sentences associated with same-sex relationships while also instituting penalties for those found to be promoting or sponsoring LGBTQI+ activities. It is worth noting that former President Akufo-Addo ultimately opted against signing this legislation into law, despite its initial passage by parliament in 2024. In a recent statement, former President John Mahama articulated a pragmatic approach regarding the proposed bill. He expressed a desire for a national consensus,…