Southern Africa

Financial Independence in Africa: The Unique Journey of Three Nations Edited By Ali Musa Axadle Times International – Monitoring In a world where financial entanglements are often seen as inevitable, three African nations — Botswana, Libya, and Eritrea — have charted a distinct and arguably enviable path. According to data primarily sourced from the IMF's Financial Data and the ONE Campaign, these countries have never succumbed to…

Imagine holding a position that carries the weight of an entire continent’s hopes and dreams. Patrice Motsepe, Africa’s first black billionaire, shoulders exactly that responsibility. On a pivotal Wednesday in Cairo, he found himself re-elected unopposed as the president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF). It’s an indication of trust, perhaps even admiration, that speaks volumes: What drives such a man to continue this arduous journey? Motsepe’s leadership story with CAF began in 2021. It was under the…

The South African Parliament recently witnessed the unveiling of the 2025 Budget by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana. This moment was particularly significant, especially after an intensive round of deliberations among Cabinet ministers. In a surprising twist, the ministers decided to convene once more to evaluate a reworked budget, ultimately rejecting it due to its contentious proposal for a 2% increase in Value-Added Tax (VAT). The discussions were fraught, bringing to mind the age-old adage: "two heads are better than…

In the whirlwind of life's demands, some corners of our globe stand out as oases of peace. While Africa sometimes wears the cloak of economic turbulence, there are beacons of tranquility and balance scattered across the continent. It's fascinating, isn't it? The Human spirit, continually seeking a place of calm, finds such locales despite the chaos that surrounds us. The 2025 Global Emotions Report, a notable publication by CEOWORLD magazine, opens the door to our global stress landscape. With its comprehensive analysis…

Johannesburg: A City of Splendor and Complexity In the heart of South Africa lies Johannesburg, a vibrant metropolis often affectionately dubbed "Joburg." It's a city where the allure of fortune is palpable—boasting an impressive tally of 12,300 millionaires, alongside 25 centi-millionaires, whose net worth exceeds $100 million, and 2 illustrious billionaires. With a population nearing 5 million, Johannesburg confidently claims the crown as Africa's wealthiest city. It outshines its closest competitors,…

The bustling landscapes of Africa are witnessing a remarkable evolution. As mega shopping malls emerge, they are significantly redefining urban landscapes. These architectural marvels stand not just as buildings but as symbols of economic dynamism and lifestyle enhancement. From the southern tip of South Africa to the ever-vibrant streets of Nigeria, the vibrant marketplaces of Kenya, and the cultural hubs of Ghana, these retail powerhouses are not simply places for shopping. They are engines of economic…

A Look at Africa’s Wealthiest in 2025: A Journey of Growth and Fluctuation The year 2025, though still unfolding, has already brought some notable shifts in the financial landscapes of Africa’s wealthiest individuals. As we meander through this year, it begs us to ask: What forces drive the economic currents that propel and sometimes hinder the growth of fortunes? How do these changes reflect broader global trends? Globally, we've seen the tides shift with new political administrations, such as a new president in the…

The Expat Insider 2024 survey has rolled back the curtain on the globe’s most budget-friendly havens for those living abroad, offering priceless insights through its thorough Personal Finance Index. This index drills down into three essential elements: the general cost of living, satisfaction with one’s personal finances, and whether the disposable household income supports a comfortable way of life. It's almost like having a financial roadmap for anyone looking to live abroad. Out of the gate, 53 unique…

Africa, a continent blessed with abundant natural resources, faces a paradoxical struggle: meeting the electricity demands of its rapidly growing population. It makes one ponder, why does a continent with such wealth of resources still grapple with energy shortages? From the roaring waterfalls of Ethiopia harnessed for hydropower, to the vast natural gas fields of Nigeria, and the coal mines of South Africa, Africa’s energy landscape is as diverse as it is rich. Yet, this diversity comes…

The world of theater has lost one of its luminaries. Athol Fugard, the internationally celebrated South African playwright, novelist, director, and actor, passed away at the remarkable age of 92, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy that continues to influence and inspire. His work has penetrated hearts and minds across the globe, delving deep into the complex tapestry of human experience and social justice. Fugard’s body of work is nothing short of monumental. His plays, rich with emotion and insight, reflect the…