Southern Africa

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has announced a significant change in its operations. As the year draws to a close, the organization will shutter its offices in Angola due to financial constraints. These decisions stem from a troubling decline in donations and funding, reflecting a broader global trend that is impacting humanitarian efforts worldwide. Emmanuelle Mitte, the UNHCR representative in Angola, articulated the challenges facing the organization. She emphasized that the closures,…

In recent discussions, Russia's Ministry of Defense shed light on critical conversations that took place, as reported by Sputnik. The agenda revolved around implementing existing agreements, military-technical cooperation, addressing both regional and global security challenges, and forging deeper military relationships moving forward. During this high-stakes meeting, the two delegations reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining a constructive dialogue. They emphasized the importance of regional stability and…

In today's rapidly shifting landscape, the significance of a nation's currency has never been more critical. With ongoing conflicts around the globe and rising issues like tariff hikes, we are witnessing an extraordinary moment in the world of international trade. The strength—or weakness—of a currency can significantly impact economic interactions on a global scale. While many nations grapple with declining values of their currencies, there are also remarkable success stories. Some countries have effectively managed their…

Intensifying Brand Competition in Africa In the ever-changing landscape of mobile telecommunications, TRANSSION has maintained its dominance in Africa, boasting a 47% market share. However, it’s worth noting that this figure has dipped by 5% compared to the previous year. As veteran vendors steady their ships, new competitors are rising to the occasion, armed with innovations and savvy marketing strategies. Samsung captured 21% of the market, primarily thanks to its popular A-series phones, which continue to resonate…

Data-Driven Strategies at Absa: A Conversation with Hartnell Ndungi Managing data across diverse countries and markets can feel like trying to juggle flaming torches while riding a unicycle. It’s no small task. It takes not just vision but strong leadership to navigate these complexities effectively. This was a prominent theme during our conversation with Hartnell Ndungi, the Chief Data Officer at Absa—one of Africa’s largest banking institutions. In an era where data shapes industries, Absa is taking significant strides…

When we discuss the world’s most influential cities, names like New York, London, and Tokyo often emerge as the titans of urban prowess. However, the landscape of global prominence is evolving right before our eyes. A recent report from Oxford Economics, encapsulated in their Global Cities Index, reveals a striking statistic: the 1,000 largest cities are not merely home to one-third of the global population but also generate nearly 60% of the world's GDP as of 2024. It's a stunning testament to the economic weight…

South Africa Reacts To Controversial Remarks by President Trump Amid swirling debates and high expectations, South Africans expressed strong discontent on Thursday following U.S. President Donald Trump's repetition of discredited claims about a so-called "white genocide" targeting farmers. This occurred during a pivotal meeting with President Cyril Ramaphosa. The discussions, which aimed at mending the delicate fabric of bilateral relations, took an unexpected turn when Trump reiterated accusations of land seizures from…

The Rise of Africa's Tech Hubs: A New Era of Innovation The African continent is undergoing an exhilarating transformation fueled by digital solutions, a surge of tech incubators, and an unyielding entrepreneurial spirit. The demand for such technological advancements is not just a fleeting trend; it is a substantial shift that speaks volumes about the region's commitment to harnessing technology for societal benefit. It's intriguing to ponder: what might these changes mean for the average…

A recent discussion has stirred quite the pot regarding the experiences of white families in South Africa, particularly among those living in the serene town of Noordhoek. In light of U.S. President Donald Trump's comments about perceived injustices faced by white individuals in South Africa, these residents have stepped forward to express their viewpoints. They adamantly counter Trump's claims, describing them as inaccurate, inflammatory, and at odds with the complex realities of the country’s racial landscape.…

In an exciting collaboration, the South African tourism company Tourvest has partnered with LTR, aiming to tap into the burgeoning airport travel market across Africa. With a solid foundation already established in West and East Africa, this partnership signals a promising new chapter in the region's travel retail landscape. Currently, LTR's operations span six African nations: Benin, Gambia, Gabon, Mauritania, Senegal, and Tanzania. This diverse geographical footprint illustrates the company’s commitment to…