Southern Africa

Natural Gas: A Transitioning Energy Source for Africa Natural gas is rapidly solidifying its position as a crucial player in the global energy arena. As the world grapples with the urgency of sustainable energy, natural gas serves as an essential bridge—connecting traditional fossil fuels with cleaner renewable resources. But what does this mean for nations, particularly in Africa, where natural gas production might be lagging? In regions devoid of indigenous natural gas production, governments find themselves…

Ethiopia is soon to embark on a significant journey that underscores its emerging role in the global economic landscape. The country's anticipated accession to the BRICS New Development Bank (NDB) marks a pivotal moment in not just Ethiopia's economic strategy, but also in the broader narrative of African nations forging robust international partnerships. The NDB, a vital institution aiming to enhance financial sovereignty among its member countries, is clearly dedicated to expanding its influence across emerging markets,…

In an exciting development on the global diplomatic stage, President Cyril Ramaphosa is preparing to welcome President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine this Thursday. This occasion will mark a historic first: the inaugural visit by a Ukrainian head of state to South Africa. It’s more than just a formality; it represents a significant moment for both nations as they seek to navigate the complexities of contemporary geopolitics. Vincent Magwenya, the presidential spokesperson, has articulated the essence of this visit well. He…

The Currency Landscape of Africa: A Key to Resilience Amidst Global Trade Turmoil While Africa may not occupy the frontlines in the current global trade conflicts, the economic repercussions are palpable across the continent. Indeed, in these challenging times, African nations find themselves navigating through turbulent waters, significantly influenced by international trade policies and market fluctuations. The importance of a robust and stable currency cannot be overstated. For African countries, a strong…

Understanding the FSCA Investigation Process In November 2024, the Financial Sector Conduct Authority (FSCA) initiated an investigation into Eklavya Asset Managers and its trading platform, SolisMarkets. This inquiry emerged amidst client concerns primarily related to difficulties with investment withdrawals. Initially, the FSCA indicated potential issues with SolisMarkets possibly operating without proper licensing. However, they soon clarified that the investigation was still in its early stages and no conclusions had…

The Evolution of Nigeria's Blockchain Ecosystem A remarkable report from the venture capital firm Hashed Emergent has shed light on Nigeria’s blockchain landscape, revealing the impressive strides made by over 80 emerging startups. Together, these pioneers have successfully secured funding exceeding $130 million, with $20 million raised in the early months of 2024 alone. It’s a staggering figure that showcases the burgeoning potential of technology in one of Africa's largest economies.…

Across the vast expanse of Africa, the energy landscape presents a complex tapestry woven from the rich geological diversity found on the continent. In this intricate picture, coal has historically played a pivotal role, particularly within southern regions. As a fundamental resource, coal has powered industries and fueled electricity generation, serving as a cornerstone for numerous national economies. It's hard to envision the bustling cities, both small and large, and the energetic industries thriving, without the…

The African automotive market presents an exciting and diverse landscape, one that continually adapts to the continent's distinct economic and infrastructural realities. For instance, despite owning a car being a dream for many, as of 2024, only about 22% of Africans could call a vehicle their own. This may seem surprising, especially when viewed through the lens of accelerating urbanization, a burgeoning middle class, and a growing appetite for reliable transportation solutions. Within this context, South Africa stands out…

As the sun set over South Africa, signaling the start of the Easter weekend, the nation’s police forces prepared for an ambitious initiative aimed at curtailing a range of criminal activities. The focus shifted to illegal mining, drug trafficking, and the challenges posed by undocumented foreign nationals. This relentless pursuit of justice unfolded across various provinces, showcasing the law enforcement community’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding public safety. Throughout the weekend, law enforcement officers…

In a remarkable leap forward for manufacturing in Nigeria, Guala Closures, a globally recognized leader in providing closure solutions for sectors such as spirits, wine, water, beer, non-alcoholic beverages, and edible oils, has officially inaugurated its cutting-edge greenfield manufacturing facility in the Lagos Free Zone. This occasion marked not only the opening of a new facility but also a significant step in the company’s strategic vision for the African market. At the inauguration ceremony, which took place on a…