Southern Africa

In today's fast-paced world, where business is continuously evolving, cash remains a significant force in South Africa. However, it's not just about the coins and notes you hold in your hand. The landscape of financing is lush with an array of options ripe for the picking. Have you ever considered the plethora of government grants that are just waiting for innovative businesses to apply? Not to mention, the digital loan ecosystem is expanding, making the process of securing a business loan in South Africa a more accessible…

Imagine this: you are an aspiring entrepreneur in South Africa, armed with a groundbreaking idea but lacking the necessary funds to lift your dream off the ground. The quest to secure financing brings you face-to-face with a longstanding barrier—conventional banks. According to McKinsey, some banks hold onto antiquated requirements. They insist that SMEs must have an existing relationship, either through lending or transactional banking, to even think about funding. Inevitably, this leaves newly minted businesses out in…

The Group of Twenty, better known as the G20, includes some of the world's largest and most powerful economies. Comprising nations that collectively wield immense economic, political, and diplomatic influence, the G20 acts as a pivotal force in shaping global policies. But when dissecting this group and its interactions with Africa, the picture becomes intriguingly more complex than sheer financial transactions or ceremonious diplomatic handshakes. Why, you may wonder, does a G20 nation…

Namibia has entered a transformative era under the leadership of its first female president, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah. Upon assuming office, she made an audacious move to trim the size of her Cabinet from a bulky 21 members down to a more agile 14. This decision has sparked both admiration and vigorous debate, inspiring many to ponder: what does leadership in a modern government truly require? Critics often argue that larger Cabinets imply an expansive vision. Yet, as Nandi-Ndaitwah's actions make clear, a leaner team can…

Africa stands out in the financial world, boasting the highest average Brand Strength score globally at 80.21, signifying that African banking brands typically shine with an AAA rating. The narrative of African banking brands is one of remarkable success and ambition. The latest Brand Finance Global 500 rankings highlight the formidable position of Africa’s financial institutions, proving them to be pivotal in steering a sustainable and inclusive economy across the continent. But what drives these banking powerhouses?…

In the world of finance, it seems that Africa is on the cusp of a transformative era. The continent's banking brands are not just holding their ground; they are surging forward with unprecedented momentum. With an average Brand Strength score of 80.21, African banks are not only strong contenders in the global market but are also leading the pack. Have you wondered what fuels this phenomenal success? Picture this: A world-renowned financial entity releases its latest Brand Finance Global 500…

Aliko Dangote, a name synonymous with monumental wealth in Africa, has made waves across various industries, from petroleum to cement, sugar, and beyond. His financial empire not only underscores his business acumen but also positions him as a pivotal figure in Africa's ever-evolving economic narrative. In the world of business, success is often measured by strategic foresight and the expansion of industries. Dangote's staggering fortune is a living testament to these…

In the current tapestry of global economics, Africa finds itself at a fascinating junction. As the continent embarks upon a journey marked by both challenges and opportunities, it faces the daunting forces of global inflation, pervasive unemployment, and sluggish growth that seemingly hinders its stride. These challenges echo a stark narrative where maintaining a low debt profile with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) becomes an imperative not only for economic stability but also for national dignity. One may…

The narrative of Kenya's bustling second-hand clothing economy is not only about numbers but about stories woven into the very fabric of everyday life. In 2023, Kenya's import of second-hand clothes and textiles reached a staggering Sh38.5 billion ($298 million), according to data from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). For an economy and a society, what do these numbers truly signify? Categories of Imported Second-Hand Apparel Kenya's import market for second-hand…

A Glimpse into the Future: MTN Group and Lynk Global Connect Africa through the Sky In a first for Africa, MTN Group’s South African branch and the innovative U.S.-based low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite provider, Lynk Global, have accomplished something truly remarkable. The two companies made history on a typical Thursday, the 27th of March, 2025, by successfully initiating a phone call via satellite. Can you imagine the possibilities that arise from such a technological leap? This achievement not only…